Saturday, December 01, 2007

Mayor Bergson vetoes council’s nix of the Housing Investment Fund



Mayor Herb Bergson says that he doesn’t understand why people who are traditionally conservative and more business oriented don’t see the $1.46 million Housing Investment Fund (HIF) as good for Duluth’s economy.
On Wednesday, Nov. 21 Bergson held a press conference to announce his veto of the city council’s decision to nix the funding for HIF.
Bergson quoted statistics from the City’s Community Development Division which show HIF has invested $1.46 million into eleven different projects, leveraging an additional $42.8 million in construction funding which created 334 housing units, 27 full-time jobs and 479 construction jobs.
The HIF money was taken out of the Community Investment Trust fund, a pool of revenues from the Fond-du-Luth Casino the city used primarily for infrastructure projects such as street maintenance.
Mayor Herb Bergson has vetoed Council Resolution 07-0653R, which eliminates new funding for the Housing Investment Fund.
The resolution passed 6-1 with
two councilors not present at the November 13 meeting of the Duluth City Council. “It is surprising to me that after seeing the demonstrated benefits of funding low and moderate income housing projects, we are still having this discussion,” Mayor Bergson said. “The benefits both to our local economy both in terms of construction jobs and outside investment in Duluth, not to mention the obvious benefit of providing good housing to people who need it, are there for everyone to see.”
The resolution called for $656,758 to remain in the fund for the discharge of obligations to Neighborhood Housing Services, Spirit Valley Citizens Neighborhood Development (SVCND) and the American Indian Community Housing Organization (AICHO), but directed any remaining money in the fund to be returned to the Community Investment Trust (CIT).
“We are having a needed discussion on what services the City of Duluth can and should provide,” the mayor added. “But the quality of the projects we’ve already seen leads me to believe that this funding should stay as it is. It’s an important part of our community growth and just as important, it’s a way to help people who frankly deserve an opportunity. We talk all the time about wanting to make Duluth a better place to live. Here is a way to do that through a fund that does good work for real people. We shouldn’t be talking about closing it down.”
At-Large city councilor Jim Stauber said the money from the Fond du Lac Casino is earmarked for street improvements. He said,“Right now the city has a plethora of available homes and rentals units.” He said that the funds compete with construction businesses for all income levels of homes, not just the low income.

Thursday, November 08, 2007

Former First Lutheran Church pastor's work published in series of books

Book signing for "Shining through the Darkness: Sermons for the Winter Season" by Michael D. Wuchter

Book signing by the late author's wife, Shirley Dryer Wuchter at
Northern Lights Books and Gifts
Saturday, Dec. 1 from 1-2 p.m.
307 Canal Park Drive,
Duluth, MN 55802

From the website: CSS Publishing Company :

With their recurrent themes of "waiting" and "traveling on a journey," these 12 imaginative messages are especially appropriate for the Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany seasons -- yet their ecumenically oriented expressions of Christian faith, hope, and love also make them relevant for any time of the year. Wuchter's keen eye for the telling detail and his ability to connect scripture with familiar things in our lives make Shining Through the Darkness compelling reading for anyone who wants a deeper appreciation of God's grace and the Gospel of Christ.

Michael Wuchter's sermons weave together the ancient texts of the Bible with modern insights. His careful historical research and winsome stories combine for a rich tapestry of gospel proclamation. These sermons stretching from Advent through Epiphany form a sort of mosaic for the beginning of the church year -- each story, each illustration, each wonderful tangent serving as tiles for a larger, clearer view for the one who came among us as the Word Made Flesh.
John D. Morris, Pastor
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Dublin, Ohio

Michael Wuchter was a master of the English language and an excellent, excellent preacher.
Jerry L. Schmalenberger, Former President
Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary

In this remarkable collection of sermons, Wuchter fully acknowledges a world rampant with violence and injustice that millions experience today. Against this backdrop of pain, he weaves with poetic creativity and sensitivity the acts of waiting, grieving, and hoping within and among personal, familial, and communal relationships. Long, cold winters are made shorter and warmer with these Christ-centered sermons in hand.
Daniel F. Martensen, Ecumenical Research Fellow
Washington (D.C.) Theological Consortium
Former Director, Dept. of Ecumenical Affairs, ELCA

Michael D. Wuchter is the author of Uplifting Christ Through Autumn (CSS). He served as the senior pastor of First Lutheran Church in Duluth, Minnesota, as university pastor at Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio, and as the pastor of Resurrection Lutheran Church in Hamilton Square, New Jersey.


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Tuesday, November 06, 2007

Bohren Named WLSSD Successor



The Western Lake Superior Sanitary District (WLSSD) Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Marianne E. Bohren as Assistant Director and designated her as the successor to the position of Executive Director of the Western Lake Superior Sanitary District. Bohren will succeed Kurt N.W. Soderberg, who has announced his intent to retire in June 2008. The WLSSD Board unanimously approved the appointment at its regular Board meeting this evening.

Bohren, 44, is a native of Cloquet, MN and has been with the District since 2004 serving as Manager of Business Services and Director of Organizational Development. Bohren will assume the role of Assistant Director effective immediately.

“We are pleased that Marianne brings with her a strong balance of environmental responsibility and business experience,” said Rob Prusak, WLSSD Board Chair. “We are confident that Marianne’s diverse background, personal skills and qualifications will allow for continued strong leadership to carry out the District’s mission and will allow for transition to occur as seamlessly as possible.”

“Marianne was identified as a leader in the organization early on,” continued Prusak. “She was one of the candidates recommended through a succession plan presented to us by Mr. Soderberg earlier this year. WLSSD is committed to developing leadership from within the organization. It’s gratifying to know that this process is working well.”

Prior to joining WLSSD, Bohren served as Vice President of Marketing and Services for Potlatch Corporation in Cloquet, MN. Bohren also has extensive background in industry, previously holding positions at Potlatch as Process Engineer, Manager of Environmental Engineering, Division Manager of Business Planning, and Director of Customer Service. She also served a three-year term as a member of the WLSSD Board of Directors, representing the City of Cloquet. Bohren has a B.S. in Chemistry from University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), also from UMD, graduating with honors in 2005.

Bohren is married to her husband Scott and resides in Cloquet, MN. The couple has two daughters.

Western Lake Superior Sanitary District
provides award-winning wastewater and solid waste services to residents, businesses and industries within its 500 square mile legislative boundaries in Southern St. Louis and northern Carlton counties, and is a nationally recognized leader in pollution prevention.





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Monday, November 05, 2007

Turkey Bingo Tradition Continues in Lincoln Park!


The Lincoln Park Business Group’s 59th Annual Turkey Bingo and Dinner is scheduled for November 15, 2007 at the V.F.W Post 137.

Duluth, MN, November 5, 2007 – The Lincoln Park Business Group will host its 59th Annual Turkey Bingo and Dinner on Thursday, November 15, 2007. The event will begin at 5 pm with a social/networking hour which will then be followed by dinner at 6 pm. The event will take place at the V.F.W Post 137 located on 2024 West Superior Street in Lincoln Park.

The cost for each ticket is only $25.00 and includes dinner, 15 games of bingo, and an entry to win one of three great door prizes. You’ll have a chance to win 30 turkeys, 6 hams, and many other prizes playing bingo. There is limited seating available and tickets are selling fast so call Heath today at 218-727-6573 or email him at heathhickok@lpbg.org for your tickets.

Heath Hickok, executive director of the Lincoln Park Business Group, wants everyone to come and experience for themselves how much fun this event is. “There are people from all walks of life that enjoy attending the Turkey Bingo event every year,” said Hickok. “Many people bring their families and coworkers to let them experience the joy of winning a turkey or other great prizes from playing bingo,” continued Hickok.

The Lincoln Park Business Group is a non-profit organization 501 (C)3 whose mission is to assist and promote the growth of the Lincoln Park community through business and economic development. They are leading the efforts to improve Lincoln Park’s image by working with businesses, residents, and other city organizations to reduce crime, develop new business opportunities, and improve the streetscapes of the great Lincoln Park District.





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Mn/Tips on how to handle "black ice" DOT warns motorists to watch out for black ice


DULUTH, Minn. - With below freezing temperatures just around the corner
in northeastern Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Transportation strongly urges drivers to be especially alert for a phenomenon commonly called "black ice," which can rapidly develop during extremely cold temperatures.

Black ice is almost invisible and can easily catch drivers off guard. It quickly forms in extremely cold weather when the air temperature is just slightly warmer than the pavement, which causes moisture to rapidly freeze, creating a very thin and almost transparent layer of ice on the roadway.

Black ice can form on heavily congested highways from auto exhaust emissions, tire friction and moisture vapors given off by industries located adjacent to the highway. In addition, black ice often forms on roadways in shaded areas, near lakes and rivers, in tunnels and on overpasses.

Although salt and sand can help minimize the effects of black ice,road salt loses its effectiveness at temperatures lower than 15 degrees.

According to Mn/DOT, motorists can increase their safety by observing the following tips:

1. Be aware that black ice is almost invisible. It can form on asphalt or concrete pavements.

2. Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and tunnels and in the early morning when the air temperature is rising faster than the pavement temperature.

3. Use extreme care while driving on suspicious roadways. Applying pressure to your brakes while on ice can easily cause a vehicle to skid. Do not use cruise control during winter driving conditions.

4. Use an appropriate safe speed for the existing driving conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit.

5. Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.

6. Remember: common sense is the best rule to follow when driving in inclement conditions.
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AIDS Memorial Quilt coming to UMD

Free and Open to the Public
Hours: December 5,6,7th Quilt is open from Noon -7pm, and Saturday December 8th 9 am - 5pm.
Contact Angie Nichols, GLBT Services Director 218-726-7300
anichols AT d.umn.edu






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Alexis Livadaros appointed to DTA Board of Directors



Alexis Livadaros has recently been appointed to the Duluth Transit Authority Board of Directors as an “At Large” representative.

Livadaros was born in Greece and after earning a 4-year degree as a Mercantile Marine Engineer from the Piraeus Mercantile Marine Academy, spent 15 years working for Orion & Global of New York. In 1985 he permanently moved to U.S. as a resident and became a U.S. citizen in 1989.

He has been employed by the Western Lake Superior Sanitary District since 1986 and is currently a Senior Waste Water Treatment Operator at their Process Control System facility. Livadaros holds a Class A Chief Engineers License, a Class B Waste Water Treatment Operators License, and has studied business management at the College of St. Scholastica.

Livadaros is a member of AFSCME / Local 66 and member of their Executive Board. He is also a delegate to the Duluth Central Labor Body.

Livadaros is a member of the Twelve Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church and has served on its Parish Council. He is a member of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association and served on the local chapter of the Sam G. Solon, Duluth #267 as a president for five consecutive years.

Livadaros and his wife Debra Ann live in East Hillside and have three children - two living and working in Duluth, and one in Milwaukee.

Livadaros says he was inspired to serve on the DTA Board in memory of his late mother, who was an avid bus rider and loved to talk about her experiences riding the DTA.






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City’s Veterans’ Day event scheduled for Sunday, November 11

Captain John P. Dorin, USA, an Afghanistan veteran who is currently serving as Officer-in-Charge of the Duluth-based 2nd Squadron, 194th Cavalry, will serve as guest speaker for the City of Duluth’s Veterans’ Day observation on Sunday, November 11.

Captain Dorin was raised in Superior and graduated from Superior Senior High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth.

Captain Dorin began his military career when he commissioned into the Minnesota Army National Guard in 1997. His assignments have taken him to Cloquet, Roseville, and Moorhead, where he earned his first assignment as a company commander.

He is an Afghanistan veteran, serving as a Company Advisor/Mentor, and won the Bronze Star. His civic affiliations include the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the National Guard Association of Minnesota, and the National Guard Association of the United States.

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Monday, October 01, 2007

October Calendar

Alternate Weekly Parking Schedule
Change sides Sundays between 4-8 p.m.
09/30 - even numbered side
10/07 - odd
10/14 - even
10/21 - odd
10/28 - even

All phone numbers listed have the 218 area code unless specified otherwise.

ONGOING
Duluth Laughing Club every Monday 12:10-12:20 p.m. Duluth Civic Center in
front of the St. Louis County Bldg.
Tweed Museum of Art Gallery Talk each Saturday at 2 p.m. A free, informal tour of current museum exhibitions.
East Hillside Community Club
1st Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. Grant Rec. Center, 901 E. 11th St.
Northland Childbirth Collective Topic Night 1st Thursday, 7 p.m. Peace Church, 1111 N. 11th Ave. E. Contact Emily 218-393-7042 for more info.
Neighborhood District 5 1st Thursday, 7 p.m. Central Hillside Center, 12 E. 4th St.
The Hillsider Board 2nd Monday, 6:30 p.m. HBA office, 928½ E. 4th St.
The Arrowhead Stamp Club 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7 p.m. Rainbow Senior Ctr.
The Twin Ports Coin and Currency Club 2nd Tuesday, 7 p.m. Rainbow Senior Center.
Campus Neighbors 3rd Tuesday, 7 p.m. Grant Rec. Center, 901 E. 11th St.
Hillside Business Association 3rd Wednesday, 12 p.m. Village Place meeting room, 602 E. 5th St.
Neighborhood District 7 3rd Thursday,
7 p.m. Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 2012 E. Superior St.
Park Point Community Club 3rd Thursday, 7 p.m. Lafayette Square, 3026 Minnesota Ave.
At Home in East Hillside 4th Tuesday,
5:30 p.m. Grant Rec. Ctr., 901 E. 11th St.
Central Hillside Community Club meets when needed 4th Tuesday, contact Gene 591-2682
Gloria Dei Community Breakfast
4th Saturday, 9-10:30 a.m. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 219 N. 6th Ave. E.
 

Zumba Mondays, starting Oct. 1, 7–8 p.m. Temple Israel, 1402 E. 2nd St. This six week fitness program is set to upbeat Latin music. You do not need a partner or know how to dance to take this class. Can be adapted to all fitness levels. $30. Contact Judy at 340-7738 for registration information. Limited scholarships available, call Patch at 728-4287.

CORE FOUR Business Planning Course Tuesdays, Oct. 2-Oct. 23, 5:30-8:30 p.m., or Thursdays, Oct. 25-Nov.15, Ordean Bldg. $244 (financial assistance available for eligible participants). Call 1-800-422-0374 to register or go to info@entrepreneurfund.org

The Morgan Park neighborhood planning session with LHB will be held on Tuesday Oct. 2, 6-7:30 p.m. The Good Fellowship Club in Morgan Park. The West Duluth neighborhood planning session with ARI will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 3, 6-7:30 p.m. City Center West. All residents, businesses owners, property owners and anyone who lives, works and plays in these two neighborhoods are encouraged to attend.

Creating Neighborhoods That Work-At Home in Duluth Showcase & Assembly Saturday, Oct. 6, 9 a.m.-noon, First United Methodist (Coppertop) Church. Welcoming remarks from Congressman Oberstar, 9:30 a.m. This is an opportunity to come together in support of Duluth’s five core neighborhoods: East & Central Hillsides, Lincoln Park, West Duluth and Morgan Park. Childcare by Little Treasures is provided upon request; call NHS at 727-8604. The free event is open to the public.

Washington Galleries presents "Works by Sandra Swenson" Opening reception Saturday, Oct. 6, 6-8 p.m. 315 N. Lake Ave. Sculpture relief of magical and mystical proportions on exhibit Saturdays/Sundays, Oct. 7-28, 1-5 p.m.

"Nuclear Power is Not the Answer" presented by Dr. Helen Caldicott, Tuesday, Oct. 9, 7:30 p.m. College of St. Scholastica Mitchell Auditorium. Dr. Caldicott’s mission is to educate colleagues and the public about the dangers of nuclear power, nuclear weapons and nuclear war. No charge. For more information call 723-5940.

Project Homeless Connect Community Wide “Night without a Home” Sleep Out Saturday, Oct. 13, 7 p.m.-7 a.m. Join in with your neighbors throughout the city to raise donations that will help those in our community who won’t have a warm bed or even shelter during this upcoming cold winter season. Consider joining us at one of the designated locations or at your own site. Contact Kim for further information 625-1739 or www.chumduluth.org.

Introduction to Business Planning Thursday, Oct. 18, 5:30-7 p.m. Ordean Bldg, free of charge. Register at 1-800-422-0374; info@entrepreneurfund DOT org.

Another Third Saturday Dance, Oct. 20, 6:30 p.m. YWCA, 202 W. 2nd St. Featuring Four Mile Portage String Band “The Thrill on the Hill”. All dances taught. Everyone welcome. $8 adults, $5 members, seniors, students, low income. $2 kids under 12. Tots are free. FFI call 728-1438.

Restoring Campus Communities Monday, Oct. 22, 7 p.m. East Hillside Community Center 1406 E. 2nd St. Our mission is to bring together and facilitate dialogue and problem-solving among neighbors living near university campuses. Contact Denise 591-1104 or restoringcampuscommunities@yahoo DOT com

4th Annual “Area 61” UFO Convention Saturday, Oct. 20, 1 p.m.-
2 a.m. Lakeview Castle, 5135 North Shore Dr. Featuring lectures, witness forum, movies, art show, costume contest, games, vendors, food, music and more. Music begins at 8 p.m. $5 admission. Contact Jim and Allen Richardson gonzoscience@hotmail DOT com or go to www.gonzoscience.com

Boo Hoo Ball—A Costume Gala Saturday, Oct. 20, 7 p.m.-midnight. The Duluth Art Institute, 2229 W. 2nd St. A benefit for Little Treasures Childcare and Family Center. This season’s most eerie evening for grown-up ghouls is just around the corner; live music, hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, silent auction and costume contest. Cost is $65 per ticket. For more info call 348-3517.

I Am Dying Of Alzheimer’s, But There Is Still A Person In Here Monday, Oct. 22, 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. Marshall School Chapel, 1215 Rice Lake Rd. Forum presented by The Greater Duluth End-of-Life Coalition who serves as a catalyst to improve experiences at the end of life through enhanced community awareness, understanding of options, education and participation. Free and open to the community. Tim Robinson, GDEOLC@charter DOT net.

Halloween Carnival! Thursday, Oct. 25, 5-7 p.m. St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 1710 E. Superior St.-Greysolon Road entrance. A dinner will be served and goodie bags handed out for children to fill as they move through several game areas, face painting, and a "spooky alley" that children can go through. Children and adults are encouraged to wear non-violent costumes. No masks allowed. Come and enjoy the free fun!
PAVSA's Annual Art Auction Saturday, Nov. 10, Holiday Inn Great Lakes Ballroom. Tickets are on sale now for $45 by calling 726-1442.

Submit your calendar events to Mona:
monajc AT hotmail DOT com

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Connecting the Dots, Groups get together to revitalize Duluth's core neighborhoods





Gather with your friends and neighbors at the First United Methodist Church (The Coppertop, 230 E. Skyline Parkway) the morning of Saturday, Oct. 6 to attend “Connect the Dots.” Learn what people in your neighborhood and other neighborhoods are doing to make Duluth a better place to live.

The main program is from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Congressman James Oberstar will kick-off the presentation. More than 20 booths will be open before and following the program until 12 noon after the program. Childcare, refreshments and entertainment are provided. Transportation will also be provided to those that need it. Phone Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS) at (218) 727-8604 for transportation and/or childcare.
“Connecting the Dots” is creating a collaborative effort to revitalize thee core neighborhoods of Duluth. Central Hillside, East Hillside and Lincoln Park have already completed plans through the “At Home in Duluth” collaborative. The “At Home” plans will implement housing, commercial and other neighborhood improvement activities.

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (Duluth LISC) is dedicated to bringing private, nonprofit and pubic sectors together to transform distressed neighborhoods into healthy communities. This includes reducing blight, helping to provide jobs and creating a great place to raise children.

“The purpose (of the Oct. 6 “Connecting the Dots event) is to reach out to people and get more neighbors, businesses and more community leaders to help our neighborhoods be the best they can,” said Pam Kramer, executive director of Duluth LISC. She said that the phrase, “Connecting the dots,” is used to recognize that there are so many good things happening in Duluth that can be strengthened by bringing people and programs together. And while many of the improvements have to do with the physical state of homes and storefronts, other issues such as increasing income, job training, recreation and making neighborhoods safe are also a part of the bigger picture.

Kramer said, “The event is a huge collective effort by the neighborhood residents, “At Home” collaborative members plus many business and philanthropic partners like Mercury Investment, Minnesota Power, North Shore Bank of Commerce, SMDC, State Farm, US Bank, Wells Fargo and many more including APEX, City of Duluth, Duluth Chamber, Duluth HRA, and the Northland Foundation. (See advertisement on this page to see all sponsors.)
Through “At Home,” older, deteriorated housing is being upgraded, low-income families assisted into homeownership and new homes constructed on vacant, infill lots. The “At Home” initiative also led to the creation of two employer-assisted homeownership programs generating 108 home-buyers over the past five years. (For information on these home-ownership programs phone (218) 727-8624.)

Improving the neighborhood means more than just fixing up dilapidated buildings. It means making sure there are activities for the children, friendly parks with areas for people to meet and walk their dogs, and feeling comfortable and safe enough to walk to the store. When people feel good about their neighborhood, people from other neighborhoods feel comfortable visiting and doing their shopping.

The August 2006 issue of “The Hillsider” interviewed Scott Neustal, owner of Ski Hut. Neustal says independently owned neighborhood stores are vital to the success of small business. If customers don’t feel comfortable shopping because of the surrounding neighborhood, small business owners will go out of business. Any thing businesses can do to add to the quality of life for residents comes back to benefit the businesses and customers of those businesses.
Jim Capraro, a consultant for LISC visited Duluth in May. He told Duluthians about the successful revitalization of the southwest Chicago neighborhood surrounding Marquette Park. The key to success for this neighborhood was getting people to take “ownership” of the plans. They did this by getting to know and trust one another.

Everyone has ideas on how to make Duluth a better place to live. This summer and fall political candidates have spouted their ideas on how they would improve Duluth if elected. Duluth needs more than just the elected officials and non-profits working to improve our town. Learn what your neighbors and others throughout Duluth are doing to make Duluth a better place to live. Whether your income is large or small, no matter what your race or education, Duluth needs you to “Connect the Dots.”
Mark your calendars for Saturday, Oct. 6.
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Saturday, September 08, 2007

Unlicensed, untagged, and vulnerable…the “tail” of loose dogs & cats in the city

By Pat Castellano
There’s an older dog who wanders
from Lake Avenue to Second Avenue
East anywhere from Fourth to Sixth
Streets. He (or she) is a shepherd/
something mix, pretty slow-moving
and very friendly. I cringe every
time I see her cross the street in
front of me. Someone at night or
who might be not watching on a turn
could easily hit the dog. I wonder
where it might live. I think I should
follow on one of its adventures to see
if I can track him or her home and
let the family who must love this dog
know that their dog is crossing streets
and not looking both ways. I livetrapped
a beautiful orange cat a few
months ago. I couldn’t stand to think
of him crossing Mesaba Avenue and
ending up as road-kill. I’ve buried a
few dogs who ended up not making
it home after just such a crossing.
I have never understood the
thinking behind our human behaviors
when it comes to caring for our
animal friends. Letting a cat outside
for even an hour can prove to be lifethreatening,
not only to the cat, but to
the songbirds or nests of baby birds
and rabbits it might get into during
that hour. I always get a bad feeling
when I see cats hiding under cars,
the ones that freeze and stare when
I call a friendly “Kitty, kitty…”
More often than not, those cats run.
Perhaps the cat has been chased by
children, had rocks thrown at it, or
its feral, born outside and not social.
They will have a hard life outside.
The two loose cats, unspayed and
unneutered in the neighborhood will
provide the shelter with plenty of
litters to fill its cages. Or the small
cats will survive a winter, live a feral
life, and have more kittens. Fight
cat overpopulation: keep your cats
indoors. Spay and neuter.
In my 15 years in the Central
Hillside, no less than 25 dogs have
found their way through my yard.
Many have been taken to the shelter,
having no tags, no license, no method
of tracking that would lead me to their
home. Some of the dogs have been
tagged or at least collared and there’s
been some means of finding family.
At least I knew at the shelter they’d
have a warm bed, food, and safety
out of the range of neighborhood
dangers. I would hope someone
would do the same for my dogs.
Best practice: keep your animals
close and indoors. There is a leash
law. Even the best dog or cat won’t
always stick right around the yard.
They don’t know about traffic.
People have related stories of
being attacked or at least aggressively
approached by loose dogs as they
walk streets in the Hillside area.
Dogs in some areas have gone after
the humans and the pets they were
walking.
One man was even attacked
by cats on a porch as he delivered a
package to a home. Turns out there
was a female in heat and the male
cats considered him competition!
We shouldn’t have to be afraid to
walk our neighborhoods for fear an
animal will be loose and harass us
or our own animals and maybe harm
someone. I live with a group of nice
dogs. But even nice dogs who love
people can be protective of their
home, sidewalk, or humans. Ask the
burglar who tried to enter the house
last summer. The 14 pound Lhasapoo
I live with is proof that size
doesn’t matter. My dogs are always
on their leashes or leads and I’m
always out with them in the yard.
One time a young boy stepped into
the yard to supposedly pet my dogs.
Had they bitten him, (I don’t think
they would have unless provoked by
some behavior) it would have been
my fault. I won’t put them in that
situation. I will protect them from
unthinking humans. It’s important to
be aware of the laws that pertain to dog
bites both on and off your property.
Humans can do a lot to prevent
incidents from happening. It usually
isn’t the animal’s fault. Foresight
and good citizenship should guide us
in good pet companionship.
If you would like your dogs to
be loose and off-leash, do so legally
at the Keane Creek dog park. Be a
good citizen: Be familiar with and
obey the city animal ordinances.
Please make the City of Duluth
Animal Control personnel aware of
any problems with animals in your
neighborhood whether that be loose
animals, neglect, abuse, barking
dogs or aggressive animals.
If you find a stray animal and
you aren’t sure what to do with it,
call. Animal Control is a city service
that citizens pay for and is a unit
of the Duluth Police Department.
Their phone number is 723-3259.
If you cannot reach anyone at that
number, call 911. Don’t give up or
get frustrated if you don’t get a call
back. Keep calling. If you are not
getting a resolution to the problem,
call the Duluth Police Department.
Most importantly, license your
animals, give them tags, keep them
close, and teach children respect
for all creatures, including wildlife
around us.





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Friday, September 07, 2007

COUPLE IN THEIR 60’s AID IN ARREST OF BURGLARY SUSPECT

On September 6th, 2007 at 2015 hours Duluth Police responded to the 200 block of W. 9th St. In reference to a Burglary In Progress. A couple in their 60’s had arrived home to find a burglar in their residence. The couple began struggling with the suspect in an attempt to restrain him. The struggle continued through the main floor of the home and out onto the porch, where the male was finally able to flee from the couple.
During the struggle, the suspect lost all of his clothing. Several neighbors pursued the suspect through the neighborhood and updated police on his location. The suspect was eventually located near Red Rock Trail and Village View Drive, where he was taken into custody by police.
The suspect, a 20 old Duluth man, had several outstanding warrants and was lodged at the St. Louis County Jail for the warrants and 1st Degree Burglary.
Duluth Police were assisted by the St. Louis County Sheriff.s
Department and Minnesota State Patrol. Duluth Police would also like to thank area residents for their assistance in locating the suspect in this incident.

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Thursday, September 06, 2007

Senate hearing on affordable health care




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Tell your health insurance story


Senate Health, Housing and Family Security Committee and the Legislative Commission to End Poverty

The Senate Health, Housing & Family Security Committee will be holding a hearing in Duluth on September 17th to learn your concerns about problems relating to health care access and affordability.

Committee members would like to hear from medical providers, individuals who are uninsured, and those who depite having medical coverage are still unable to access medical care because it is unaffordable. The Senate Committee is traveling throughout the state to hear about the unique health care problems facing each region of Minnesota.

Please contact Laura Blubaugh in Senator Marty's office if you have questions, or wish to testify before the committee: 651-296-5712.

Senate Health, Housing & Family Security Committee Hearing>Monday, September 17th
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
DECC City Side Convention Center
French River Room
Entrance B






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Wednesday, September 05, 2007

Greater Minnesota Loses Without Special Session

By Conrad deFiebre, Minnesota 2020 Fellow &
Matt Entenza, Minnesota 2020 Board Chair


A short five weeks after the Interstate 35W bridge collapsed, killing 13, Minnesota’s leaders have already dropped their push for prompt attention to hundreds of other structurally deficient spans around the state that are new disasters waiting to happen.
It’s a shame and an outrage, and most of the blame belongs to Gov. Tim Pawlenty, who quickly qualified his apparent U-turn on tax policy in the wake of the bridge tragedy to the point of meaninglessness. His bottom line, expressed to legislative leaders, was that the gasoline tax, which all Minnesotans pay to fund roads and bridges, could only be raised if the income tax, which falls heaviest on the wealthy, were cut.
Not coincidentally, that would reduce state investments in education and health care, which are ordinary Minnesotans’ vital thoroughfares to the upper tax brackets.

Questions of tax fairness aside, the biggest losers from the apparent collapse of negotiations toward a special session of the Minnesota Legislature are folks in Greater Minnesota.

There are hundreds more bad bridges in rural parts of the state than in the metro area. But comprehensive transportation and bonding bills that would finance long-neglected repair and replacement of them are now off the table until next year.

“What’s it going to take?” asks Glen Johnson of the International Union of Operating Engineers, whose members build roads and bridges. “How big of a tragedy will it take for our governor to wake up?”

Flood-ravaged rural southeastern Minnesota will have to wait for much-needed state relief, as well. Pawlenty’s early release of state aid to the area will help local governments keep cash flowing in the short term, but it does nothing to actually repair damaged homes, businesses and public infrastructure. FEMA estimates that cost at $68 million, some of which must be picked up by new state funds.

Gone, too, is the hope of many homeowners in Greater Minnesota for property tax relief via increased local government aid. According to the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, 70 municipalities outside the Twin Cities, places such as Bemidji and Worthington, would reap more than $25 million from revival of the bipartisan tax bill that won large legislative majorities last spring. For example, the bill’s increased state aid would allow Winona to slash its proposed 16 percent increase in property taxes all the way to 2 percent.

Pawlenty has said he supports the bill’s closing of corporate tax loopholes and the relief for local property taxpayers that it would fund, but he vetoed those provisions last spring in a side dispute over how to forecast the state’s budget.

Whatever the governor’s motivation, the winners again were big businesses and the wealthy and the losers were ordinary Minnesota taxpayers.

They, by the way, have been forking over more than $1 billion a year in property taxes just for local roads and bridges.

Which brings us back to the reasons a special session was being discussed at all. Those who have watched the deterioration of Minnesota’s roads and bridges most closely say it reached crisis stage long before Aug. 1. Bipartisan legislators responded with comprehensive transportation funding in 2005 and this year, only to be rebuffed by Pawlenty vetoes.

Fortunately, time hasn’t run out. The governor and legislative leaders should come together for a bipartisan special session that addresses the state’s emergency needs while laying out a vision for Minnesota’s future.

Conrad deFiebre is a Fellow at Minnesota 2020. He covered state government for 11 years for the Star Tribune.

Matt Entenza is Minnesota 2020’s Founder and Board Chair. A former state legislator, he served as House DFL Leader from 2002 to 2006.

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League of Women Votrs fall membership kick-off



LWV Duluth Chapter Fall Membership Kick-Off and LWV of Minnesota 2007 Fall Regional Workshop Saturday, September 29thS pirit Mountain, Moosehead Room, Duluth, MN 9:30- 9:45 a.m


Registration 9:45-10:15 a.m


LWV Duluth Fall Membership Kick-Off 10:15 a.m.


Introduction of LWVMN Co-Presidents: Vivian Jenkins Nelsen, Judy Stuthman 10:30 a.m.


Local LWV Introductions 10:45 - 11:15 a.m.


LWVUS Immigration Study: Judy Stuthman 11:15 - 11:45 a.m.


Win Friends and Influence People - Promoting LWV: Peggy Kvam11:45 - 12:15 p.m.


Action Report, Lobbyist Recruitment: Gwen Myers 12:15 - 12:45 a.m.


Lunch Break 12:45 - 1:00


State of Democracy Project: Susan Hoyt, David Brauer1:00 - 1:30 p.m. LWVMN Judicial Study: Helen Palmer, Miriam Simmons


1:30 p.m. Adjourn


This event is open to current members and those interested in joining the league. To attend just the Membership Kick-off is free - from 9:30-10:15.


The cost is $15.00 for both lunch and registration materials.


If you wish to just attend the workshops and not have lunch the cost is $5.00. Lunch will include: chicken salad on croissant with fresh fruit and dessert. (vegetarian requests available with prior registration only) RSVP's by Monday Sept. 24.


Late registrations may not be able to have lunch. To RSVP please contact LWV of Duluth at 218-724-0132 or Deb Ortman at 722-2421To register - go online at:http://www.lwvmn.org/members/FallWorkshopRegistration.aspPlease print this page and send in with a check made out to "LWVMN" for $15.00 to the LWVMN office:550 Rice StreetSt. Paul, MN55103


Find out more about the League of Women Voters of Duluth and activities scheduled for 2007-2008 and how you can join the league; then stay to meet the new Co-Presidents of the League of Women Voters of Minnesota and find out state studies and activities.


Directions to Spirit Mountain Resort:Spirit Mt. is located off of I-35 as you enter Duluth from Proctor.Take exit 249 off of I35 and continue past McDonalds and the Country Inn and Suites, take a left after theRailroad bridge and another left at the marquee. The entrance is clearly marked with signs. Number for Spirit Mountain: (218) 628-2891 http://www.spiritmt.com/


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Meet Your Council District 3 Candidates on Thursday






Primary Election is on September 11. Have you decided who you will vote for? Come Meet Your Council District 3 Candidates Vying for Duluth City Council Office

Sharla Gardner
Heather Rand

John Rathe


Thursday, September 6, 2007
7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Central Hillside Community Club
12 East 4th Street (Lake Avenue and 4th Street)


Duluth Council District 3, which includes precincts 14 thru 22, and generally those residences west of 17th Avenue East to approximately 11th Ave. West including Park Point, and the East and Central Hillside, has a contested primary election coming up on September 11. There are three candidates running for the seat currently held by Counselor Russ Stewart who has chosen not to run for another term.

The League of Women Voters Duluth and District 5 Neighborhood Planning Group will be co-sponsoring a forum that will include all three candidates. The forum will allow for audience questions and discussion. If you would like to know more about the candidates for which you are casting a vote, please come join us on the September 7th.

For a map showing the boundaries of Council District 3, go to http://www.ci.duluth.mn.us/city/clerk/images/council3_mndot.pdf

For more information contact: LWV Duluth: 32 E. First St., Duluth, MN 55802
218-724-0132
http://www.lwvmn.org/LocalLeagues/Duluth/






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Tuesday, September 04, 2007

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Thursday: Superior Street closed for Nitty Gritty Dirt Band



On Thursday, September 6, 2007, beginning at 9:00 a.m. traffic will be diverted from Superior Street at First Avenue East and Second Avenue East in Downtown Duluth in preparation of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band concert. The concert will be from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the 100 block of East Superior Street.


Motorists should expect traffic delays in that area and plan on taking alternative routesto the downtown area. They should also obey temporary "No Parking" areas on Superior Street from First to Second Avenues East. Violators will be tagged and towed. Traffic will be detoured all day Thursday. Motorists should be alert for officers directing traffic in that area.

Traffic should return to normal by approximately 12:00 a.m.


The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band is sponsored by the Greater Downtown Council and the Fond-du-Luth Casino.


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Monday, September 03, 2007

Mr. Nice answers "The Hillsider" Questionnaire

1) Please tell us a little bit about yourself
I am 30 year old puppet made of blue felt. I have a history of public service and when I realized that there were no puppets in the race for Mayor, I had to step forward.

2) Family I’m told that there are quite a few illegitimate children in the twin ports who have button eyes and red string hair but I deny any knowledge or responsibility for the little rascals.

3) Educational background I studied at Cambridge and Oxford before completing my Bachelors in Political Satire from UMD.

4) Employment background I was in a trunk with some other puppets for about fifteen years. I finally escaped in time to run for Vice-President of the Free Republic of Duluth back when Duluth was its own country in February of 2005. I ran for City Council later that same year once relative stability had been restored. My campaign for Council hit a snag when profanity and violence erupted at a Campaign stop. I’ve learned a lot since then. See gonzoscience.com for footage of these events.

5) Volunteer background
I frequently lecture neighborhood children on the evils of toilet humor.

6) Hobbies I enjoy smelling flowers, shoplifting, plagiarism, tax evasion, internet pornography,

7) Your address and contact information 626 N 8th Ave E Duluth, MN 55805 218-260-5177 www.myspace.com/mrniceformayor

8) The Hillside and the Lincoln Park neighborhoods are some of the most ethnically diverse areas in the city of Duluth. How do you see this ethnic diversity as an asset to Duluth? I think its common knowledge that people of Caucasian descent are generally mean-spirited and delusional, and so any ethnic diversity which offsets the maniacal bloodthirst of white people must be a good thing.
Disclaimer:
Added Nov. 5, 2007
"The Hillsider" apologizes for this question. It was originally asked in August 2007 and published in the September issue. "The Hillsider" does not believe the statement/question below is true. It was asked in an effort to pin down the candidates on an his or her personal beliefs on crime and newcomers. The statement is often heard at many venues. "The Hillsider" did not intend that newcomers were immigrants as in not citizens and did not mean the word in a negative connotation.

9) Some people blame the increase in neighborhood problems such as crime on immigrants from Chicago, Milwaukee and Minneapolis. Do you think it's true?

We must never forget that the real criminals are upper-class families who’ve been in Duluth for generations and who control the economy. However, if we want to compete with larger cities we’re going to need more street crime. Street crime is the primary justification for the excessive use of force so beloved by police everywhere and so we should be grateful that people want to come to Duluth to share their law-breaking skills in our communities.

9a) If so, what do we do about it?
When I’m elected I will legalize gangsterism, extortion and vigilante justice because it’s a common sense solution. I’ll para-militarize the police and personally assume control of all criminal activity, skimming a little off the top of the proceeds for my slush fund and for much needed public services.

10) It is estimated that 15 percent of Duluthians are living below the poverty line including 15.4% of those under age 18 and 9.5% of those age 65. What are some of your ideas to bring Duluthians out of poverty?
I propose we give more loans and credit cards to the poor and just hope they shape up.

11) The city has a mandatory recycling law yet walking by many people’s homes it is obvious that they do not recycle. Is recycling important?
Recycling is an un-American socialist plot to counter our God-given right to be wasteful.

12) Why do we have a law on the books if it isn’t going to be enforced?
I’ve proposed a number of new laws that hopefully will not be enforceable such as requiring animal control to baptize all stray dogs. The lack of enforceability can sometimes be a blessing.

13) Over-flowing garbage cans are a problem in lower East Hillside. Many of the homes where this is a problem are rental units. What kinds of ideas do you have to prompt landlords to encourage their tenants to take better care of their property?
The City should authorize landlords to get medieval on their tenants. Its no secret how to torture somebody and it gets results.

14) In the last census, Duluth had a dearth of people age 24 to 35? What can be done to attract and keep this population in Duluth?
Lure them back with false promises of a vibrant economy and then chain them down when they realize we were lying.

15) This city has yet to settle the retiree’s health care budget. What type of action would you take?
I pledge to find out who would perpetuate a hoax as cruel as promising health care for life for retirees. These pranksters will pay dearly for their shenanigans.

16) Is paying for health care a problem that needs to be addressed on the city, state or national level?
I feel health care should be addressed at the sub-atomic level.

17) Have you or anyone you know, had trouble paying a health care bill or worried about how much health care would cost?
I recently needed oral surgery to replace some of the yellow felt in my mouth. I took care of it with no anesthetic, just a shot of whiskey and a needle and thread. Cost about 10 bucks including the whiskey. I don’t see what the big deal is.

18) Do the city departments work well together? How can inter-department work be done more efficiently?
There’s room for improvement and I propose making City employees play ‘Twister’ with folks from other departments. I mean the game, not the movie. It brings people together.

19) What makes you unique as a candidate for city office?

Well, I’m pretty sure I’m the only blue contestant. Other than that, I’m a pretty average fellow and I think Duluth is ready to embrace the firm shaft of my confident leadership. I’m the only candidate who’s not afraid to say that I do not believe in Duluth’s future. Future, future, future- everybody wants to talk about the future! I only believe in the present- I’m the ‘No Future’ candidate.


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Tony Salls, candidate for city concil "At -Large" answers "The Hillsider" questionnaire

Click Here to see the Questionnaire


1) Please tell us a little bit about yourself:


This is the part where I tell you how much I love Duluth. I grew up in Silver Bay and the last place I ever thought I would be is in Duluth. In 1990 I moved here on a 3 month plan, sober up, get my life in order and hit the Cities hard. The people here, changed that for me by living a way of life that had much more meaning.




2) Family: With my spouse Kristi we raise 9 children from the ages of 14 years to 15 months. The common questions answered: yes they are all ours, one wife, one husband, 5 boys ,4 girls, I would not trade any of them for anything.




3) Educational background: UMD and Vermillion Community College




4) Employment background: Food and Beverage Manager for Ledge Rock Grill at Larsmont Cottages, You want to feel really good about living in Duluth listen to a tourist some time as they stare out over the Lake. 10 years with Chi Chi's Mexican Restaurant, Black Bear Casino, Baja Billy's and Perkins at the Mall, all as a Manager. Overall I've been in Management for 20+ years.




5) Volunteer background: most recent Youth Coaching




6) Hobbies: Sports, enjoying friends and family




7) Your address and contact information: 3717 W. 4th Street Duluth Minnesota phone 218 590 4617




8) The Hillside and the Lincoln Park neighborhoods are some of the most ethnically diverse areas in the city of Duluth . How do you see this ethnic diversity as an asset to Duluth ?



Our first house was in the East Hillside, our church is St Mary' Star of the Sea. The people of Duluth are our greatest asset, it could become better with Commercial Mixed use areas in neighborhoods to share the ethnic diversity.

9) Some people blame the increase in neighborhood problems such as crime on immigrants from Chicago , Milwaukee and Minneapolis . Do you think it's true?



It may be true that some recent criminal events involve people that came from Chicago and Milwaukee, and Minneapolis, we have also had criminal events which are local citizens in all of our neighborhoods. An all to common cause is drugs.

9a) If so, what do we do about it?



Increase police presence in our nieghborhoods, continue to improve neighborhood watch programs and take the time to know your neighbors.

9 b) If not, why not?



I came to Duluth in 1990 from the Twin Cities to get my life back in order as I am Recovering Alcoholic, drugs and alcohol issues start with demand, the more demand the more suppliers will move into the market place. It doesn't matter where the people come from, as a neighbor it is more why are they moving here? Is it because they have vacationed here and want to make a go of it. Is it friends and family , if we invest emotionally into our neighborhoods to know our neighbors we can work together to welcome the visitor, students and relocated.

10) It is estimated that 15 percent of Duluthians are living below the poverty line including 15.4% of those under age 18 and 9.5% of those age 65. What are some of your ideas to bring Duluthians out of poverty?



Because of life's changes I understand this issue very well, part of the reason I would like an additional pay check. We need to focus our efforts on creating a business enviroment which attracts business to our city and our area. I can not support ordinences such as "Project Labor" which favors a portion of Duluth's Work Force and leave the rest behind. Get the City Council out of DEDA, we have Citizens with much more knowledge and knowhow, we need them to become DEDA. The new economy, tech focused and Eco are opportunities for everyone, lets make it our focus to be a leader.

11) The city has a mandatory recycling law yet walking by many people’s homes it is obvious that they do not recycle. Is recycling important?



Is it important yes, I was on the Citizen Advisory Committee to the City Council on developing Recycling Program for the City of White Bear Lake. My observation is our young adults can lead the way to getting people to "want to do it." Consumers can direct this much better than Goverment.

12) Why do we have a law on the books if it isn’t going to be enforced?



We don't have resources to enforce all laws nor can the court system keep up. Part of the issue long ago was everyone going to manditory recycling and the markets were not there for recycled products, which is why no one could enforce such laws.




13) Over-flowing garbage cans are a problem in lower East Hillside . Many of the homes where this is a problem are rental units. What kinds of ideas do you have to prompt landlords to encourage their tenants to take better care of their property?



Focus on the problem the problem gets larger, focus on the solutions the problems will go away. It really is a communication issue for neighborhoods, tenants and landlords alike. Getting people involved in common causes has great outcomes.

14) In the last census, Duluth had a dearth of people age 24 to 35? What can be done to attract and keep this population in Duluth ?




Every area outside the Twin Cities is asking the same question, with that said we have an asset which many other areas don't have, Lake Superior. We pass ordeniences against , skate boarding downtown, "hanging out", we complain that we don't want the students in our neighborhood, add parking and limited rentals as solutions. None of which sounds very welcoming to me , I would suggest focusing on welcoming our students, welcome our youth, create a enviroment which "attracts" and accepts rather than limits.

15) This city has yet to settle the retiree’s health care budget. What type of action would you take?




The same issue that bankrupt Airlines, Steel Industry and now Automakers are trying to figure it out. The idea was great at the time. The Task Force has done a nice job addressing how to get through this if everyone is willing to work together. I will follow that recommendation and add a time table to finalize this issue.

16) Is paying for health care a problem that needs to be addressed on the city, state or national level? National, not only do the citizens need an overhall so do businesses that want to offer benefits to their employees. Costs are effecting every everyone.

17) Have you or anyone you know, had trouble paying a health care bill or worried about how much health care would cost?
Yes we are making monthly payments right now for the next 3 years after depleting our saving on a $ 4000 ,4 hour visit to the emergency room.




18) Do the city departments work well together? How can inter-department work be done more efficiently?



Can they work better together the answer is a strong yes, it will be challenging to get to that point but ask a majority of busnesses you either change with the times or you stop existing.




19) What makes you unique as a candidate for city office?



Being in the hospitality industry is about serving people, it is my nature to do so. Call me old fashion but I believe in Goverment for the people , by the people. That is what I see is missing today, who is standing up for the people, the taxpayer ? The only endorsement I care to have is that of the citizens, you are paying my wages you deserve my best efforts. I have no magic wand, but I will be as fair, honest and straight forward as I can be for all concerns.





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Todd Fedora, candidate for 1st District city council, answers "The Hillsider" questionnaire

Click Here to see the Questionnaire



1) Please tell us a little bit about yourself:


Lifelong Duluthian who loves the Duluth area and the many amenities that the community has to offer. I am deeply passionate about my home-town and want to see us all reach our full potential. I am independent, objective, empathic, open to feedback and input as well as analytical. Duluth needs effective leadership now, more than ever, which is why I decided to run for a second time for the city council position.



2) Family: Wife Lisa, daughter Chelsea, son Jordan and Brittany Spaniel Benelli



3) Educational background:


Educated in Duluth public schools. 1987 Graduate of the University of Minnesota, Duluth, Bachelors of Business Administration, concentration in Finance. Additional coursework in Economics and Political Science.



4) Employment background: M & I Marshall and Ilsley Bank, Vice President - Commercial Banking Division (1996-present). First Bank – Duluth, Assistant Vice President, Commercial Banking Division (1987-1996), Kenwood Jubilee grocery store, Night Manager and stockperson (1981-87).



5) Volunteer background; Duluth Animal Allies Humane Society, Treasurer & Executive Committee (2005-present); Duluth Airport Authority (2002-2006); Duluth Rotary Club (2003-present), Member, The Kiwanis Club of Friendly Duluth (1992-2002) including Co-Chairmanship of Youth Services Committee (1993-94), Co-Chairmanship of the Kiwanis TV Auction (1995) and Board of Directors (1995-1996); Board Member, United Development Achievement Center (1994-1996) including Finance Committee and Executive Committee; Board Member, Junior Achievement (1996-2001) including Program Committee; Consultant, Junior Achievement (1992-2000)



6) Hobbies: Being a father and husband, golf, upland bird hunting, gardening



7) Your address and contact information: P. O. Box 3049, Duluth, MN 55803. Phone number: 525-0300. E-mail address: todddlh@charter.net



8) The Hillside and the Lincoln Park neighborhoods are some of the most ethnically diverse areas in the city of Duluth. How do you see this ethnic diversity as an asset to Duluth?


The more you get to know and learn from folks of other groups and ethnicities, the broader your understanding of our community and our neighbors’ perspectives. The United States has been referred to as “the great melting pot”, which is an asset. Our culturally diverse community keeps us all from being myopic in our attitudes and allows for healthy personal growth.



9) Some people blame the increase in neighborhood problems such as crime on immigrants from Chicago, Milwaukee and Minneapolis. Do you think it's true?

Disclaimer:
Added Nov. 5, 2007
"The Hillsider" apologizes for this question. It was originally asked in August 2007 and published in the September issue. "The Hillsider" does not believe the statement/question below is true. It was asked in an effort to pin down the candidates on an his or her personal beliefs on crime and newcomers. The statement is often heard at many venues. "The Hillsider" did not intend that newcomers were immigrants as in not citizens and did not mean the word in a negative connotation.

Without some form of empirical evidence, it would be irresponsible to state that this claim is true or false. Unfortunately, the recent indictment of 29 individuals involved in cocaine trafficking, with so many having Chicago ties, only perpetuates this suspicion within our community. The City Council has funded a survey to gather demographic information on perpetrators, which I think is a great idea. One can never have too much information, on any issue.
9a) If so, what do we do about it? Prioritize our funding to ensure proper staffing of our police force, including the DARE program which targets our young folks. Full restoration of our proactive community and neighborhood policing efforts.



9 b) If not, why not?



10) It is estimated that 15 percent of Duluthians are living below the poverty line including 15.4% of those under age 18 and 9.5% of those age 65. What are some of your ideas to bring Duluthians out of poverty?


Create opportunities and an environment for creation of family-supporting jobs. One of the first resolutions that I would author would be an “Employment 1000” initiative whereby stakeholders in the City of Duluth would work collaboratively to create new opportunity for the citizens of Duluth.



11) The city has a mandatory recycling law yet walking by many people’s homes it is obvious that they do not recycle. Is recycling important?


It is important in our home. We recycle religiously and have recently converted many lights in our home to fluorescent. We purchase groceries that are contained with recyclable materials. Our bi-weekly refuse pickup has a larger can for recycling than for garbage, and it’s consistently full. We also bring our paints and chemicals to WLSSD for proper disposal once we’re finished with them.



12) Why do we have a law on the books if it isn’t going to be enforced?


We have many laws on the books that are hard to enforce, because we don’t have the human resources to commit towards enforcement of quality of life regulations. It is unfortunate that these laws have to be made because, oftentimes, it’s very hard to dictate personal behaviors.



13) Over-flowing garbage cans are a problem in lower East Hillside. Many of the homes where this is a problem are rental units. What kinds of ideas do you have to prompt landlords to encourage their tenants to take better care of their property?


I don’t have any ideas on this issue. This is a personal responsibility issue. There are good tenants/bad tenants, good landlords/bad landlords, good attorneys/bad attorney, doctors, bankers, etc. If I was in this scenario, I’d find out who the landlord is and talk to him/her. If that didn’t work, I’d call the solid waste collection officer and take enforcement action up the chain until results could be achieved.



14) In the last census, Duluth had a dearth of people age 24 to 35? What can be done to attract and keep this population in Duluth?


Create OPPORTUNITY! We don’t have career opportunities for our young folks, unless you’re involved (largely) in a medical occupation. We have to stop creating obstacles to job development, and create enthusiasm. Take a look at Fargo, ND. Vibrant, growing, dynamic. We have so much potential in Duluth; we just need to grasp it.



15) This city has yet to settle the retiree’s health care budget. What type of action would you take?


You need to first determine what the city is obligated for to the current retirees. We are currently administering 90-some different plans through our Third Party Administrator which is why the Task Force’s recommendation that we seek a Declaratory Judgment is so important. If those 90-some plans cannot be collapsed into a few, our strategy for mitigating this burdensome liability would probably change dramatically. We cannot put the puzzle together with pieces missing.



16) Is paying for health care a problem that needs to be addressed on the city, state or national level?


We have to pay our obligations under the current system that we’re operating under. If we are not proactive, and wait for some other governmental entity to solve our problem, then we’re being extremely negligent. There are many governmental entities that are struggling with this same problem, it is just that Duluth has one of the higher per-capita obligations in the country. I’m not prepared to discuss the merits of nationwide healthcare at this point.



17) Have you or anyone you know, had trouble paying a health care bill or worried about how much health care would cost?


Both Lisa and I have chronic health conditions, but also enjoy employer-sponsored health care coverage. We worry about how to pay for health care bills, co-pays and deductibles but we adjust our personal expenditures to pay for them. I’ve also known folks on MinnesotaCare and the many challenges that they encounter.



18) Do the city departments work well together? How can inter-department work be done more efficiently?


I would like to see an organizational chart for the City of Duluth posted on their website to determine who reports where, to whom, etc. My suspicion is that the organization could be “flattened out” and an entrepreneurial spirit fostered within city government in an effort to make it more user-friendly and efficient. We need a strong team (i.e. Mayor, Chief Administrative Officer, Department Heads) to institute changes in Duluth government conducive to an improved environment and better morale amongst our public employees.



19) What makes you unique as a candidate for city office?


Twenty years of Commercial Finance experience, community involvement on many boards/commissions and unencumbered independence will benefit the city in a leadership capacity. As a “big picture” person and as a city councilor I would focus on direction, mission, policy and goals rather than as a micro-manager. We have an excellent staff in City Hall so let them perform what they do so well.



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Sunny Helbacka, candidate for Mayor, answers "The Hillsider" Questionnaire

Click Here to see the Questionnaire



1) Please tell us a little bit about yourself: Greetings and thank you for this opportunity to present my observations. I was born in Ely in 1945 and raised in a traditional Finnish family spending half the year in town, the other half at the cabin on Burntside Lake. My peers and myself were so fortunate, incredible environment, great schools, great community, [diverse but united], and encouragement to dream.

2) Family: I have been married for the past 28 years. My bride, Michelle is an English teacher at Denfeld High School and is an avid perennial gardener. My youngest son, Matthew, is a student at USC studying film, youngest daughter Jessie, a UWS graduate in teaching and interviewing today at Denfeld, oldest daughter, Katy, married, a theatre grad from UMD currently in Chicago teaching theatre arts at Passages International School, [her husband Andy, also a Denfeld alum and UMD grad, manages the Piven Theatre In Evanston], Oldest son Trevor is an EE grad from the main U and lives in Minneapolis.

3) Educational background: I attended UMD and the main U. I did not graduate.

4) Employment background: After college, I worked in the investment field for five years. The next few years were spent traveling, ending up working in a State Park in Florida as canoe guide into the swamps of the Loxahatchee River. The next thirty+ years were with the City of Duluth Parks and Recreation Department as a Recreation Specialist. My charge was to design and implement leisure time activities for youth, families, seniors, and neighborhoods. I programmed Centers from Duluth Heights west to Fondulac during my thirty years. I played a role in starting City wide programs such as the Duluth Sailing Association , Duluth Table Tennis, Duluth Speed Skating, Youth Soccer, Adventure Recreation [including canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing,] Irving’s Children’s Theatre. These programs succeeded due to the collaboration of many agencies and individuals.

5) Volunteer background: A good third of the time I spent at my job at the Recreation Centers was volunteering. From coaching Senior and Little League baseball to making ice for Hockey and Speed skating, from Community Club meetings to taking kids to the theatre, there was never a clear line between the forty hour week and what needed to be done. I also had the opportunity to work with countless numbers of volunteer organizations, trying to coordinate city operations to best achieve the needed end goals.

6) Hobbies: As a Recreation Specialists, I have many different ways to play. I love sailing, skiing, canoeing, fishing, table tennis, playing the trombone [to the dismay of my neighbors,] drawing, photography, and my bride’s and my combined love, gardening, to name a few.

7) Your address and contact information:
8714 Beaudry, Duluth, Mn. 55808
218-626-2592
218-355-0919 cell
sunny8714 AT aol DOT com

8) The Hillside and the Lincoln Park neighborhoods are some of the most ethnically diverse areas in the city of Duluth. How do you see this ethnic diversity as an asset to Duluth?
Duluth’s history and success is its diversity. Over a hundred years ago, my family was one of the immigrant families looking for new opportunities.

9) Some people blame the increase in neighborhood problems such as crime on immigrants from Chicago, Milwaukee and Minneapolis. Do you think it's true?
To some degree, it is true. It is not, however, the sole reason for our increase in crime, our own population added to this problem as well.

9a) If so, what do we do about it?
I have always felt that healthy neighborhoods generate from an effective recreation program for kids and families. A safe place to go with good mentoring develops pride in one’s setting and camaraderie among one’s peers. The barriers are bridged for young and old. Effective Community Policing, coordinated with the neighborhood centers, helps identify and help those prone to mischief. We should open our arms to people wishing to start anew. We must also encourage those coming to understand and respect us and our all ready diverse cultures. We are not “where you came from.”
9 b) If not, why not?

10) It is estimated that 15 percent of Duluthians are living below the poverty line including 15.4% of those under age 18 and 9.5% of those age 65. What are some of your ideas to bring Duluthians out of poverty?
Affordable quality housing that can generate a sense of pride is the first place to start and then the opportunity to contribute through meaningful employment. We must always see to it that effective social services are available.

11) The city has a mandatory recycling law yet walking by many people’s homes it is obvious that they do not recycle.
Is recycling important? Absolutely!

12) Why do we have a law on the books if it isn’t going to be enforced?
Great question and so many of those politically correct laws on the books. In the end, there are some things that we should not have to legislate. We as individuals are responsible for our civil behavior. In this case, I believe the contractor can due more to inform and effectively modify behavior.

13) Over-flowing garbage cans are a problem in lower East Hillside. Many of the homes where this is a problem are rental units. What kinds of ideas do you have to prompt landlords to encourage their tenants to take better care of their property?
In this case, I believe the landlord should contract the service and simply add it to rental fees. Whether a home owner or landlord, the pride we take in our neighborhoods and our properties reflects on all the people who live there, on their behavior and attitude.

14) In the last census, Duluth had a dearth of people age 24 to 35? What can be done to attract and keep this population in Duluth? This and question 18 go hand and hand in importance. We must take an inventory of our potential. What are our natural resources? What are our human resources? What are our institutional resources? We are sitting on an Eco-tourism gold mine. We have the hills, the river, the streams, the lake…unique the world over. Our whole region is rich in opportunity if we work together. We also have a very educated, talented, and creative citizenry. Let us encourage our own entrepreneurial spirit to develop related businesses, both manufacturing and services. If we can build airplanes here, we can build boats here, we can make movies here…we can become the cultural and recreational destination of the Midwest.

15) This city has yet to settle the retiree’s health care budget. What type of action would you take?
We must honor the contract that these individuals worked under. These individuals have made their plans according to promises made. Neither the retirees nor current city workers are responsible for this mess. Past administrations and Councils have ignored the problem while pouring money into unnecessary projects.

16) Is paying for health care a problem that needs to be addressed on the city, state or national level?
Cities, States, and great American corporations are all under duress. The only solution is on a National level guaranteeing health and dental for all Americans, young and old alike.

17) Have you or anyone you know, had trouble paying a health care bill or worried about how much health care would cost? I hear tragic stories every day. I also remember the tension with my mother’s illness and my father’s final days.

18) Do the city departments work well together?
How can inter-department work be done more efficiently? This is the most important question. No, Departments do not work well together…nor are they effective on their own. The execution of city services through our City Departments is dysfunctional…no accountability. Service delivery needs reorganization from the bottom up. Supervisors need to serve the worker in the execution of services. We have too much management, too few workers. We also need a shared vision and understanding of our united mission, delivery of services.

19) What makes you unique as a candidate for Mayor?
I have thirty years of a prospective of city government few have. I have worked on the fourth floor and I have been in the bowels of city hall. I have seen the infrastructure citywide. I have seen what works and what doesn’t. I have a vision for Duluth that, I believe, is shared by many. Whether you support me or one of the other candidates, hold her/him and their management team accountable to protect our assets, to deliver services, and lead us to our potential.
Thank you.



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Henry Banks answers "The Hillsider" questionnaire

Click Here to see the Questionnaire



Editor's note: Banks responses are on the blog only as it was too late to get into the paper.

Please tell us a little bit about yourself
Family
– Single

Educational background: University and College educated

Employment background: Former Director – Washington Family Resource Ctr.

Volunteer background: Over 20 years of volunteer service to the community
Hobbies: Biking, hiking, outdoor stuff such as snowshoeing, and walking on Lake Superior in the winter.

Your address and contact information: PO Box 7265, 55807

The Hillside and the Lincoln Park neighborhoods are some of the most ethnically diverse areas in the city of Duluth. How do you see this ethnic diversity as an asset to Duluth?
The ethnic diversity you speak of is remarkable in that it affords all Duluthians the opportunity to learn about each other and thus break down barriers in a lasting and meaningful way. Difference is good and it is a good reality for our community.

Some people blame the increase in neighborhood problems, such as crime, on immigrants from Chicago, Milwaukee and Minneapolis.
Do you think it's true
? No, that is simply not true.
Let’s put this horrible rumor to rest and start dwelling on positive aspects of our community. We need to focus on things that build us up not the things that tear us down. When we put a value on diversity and inclusion – then and only then will the negative stereotypes be resolved.

If so, what do we do about it?
If not, why not? Statistically that is virtually impossible.

It is estimated that 15 percent of Duluthians are living below the poverty line, including 15.4% of those under age 18 and 9.5% of those age 65. What are some of your ideas to bring Duluthians out of poverty?
Creative, effective approaches to job development
Promote and sustain an increase in person of color and glbt owned businesses
Stop squelching the dreams of small businesses in our community
Create a marketing strategy that will increase business ownership for the twenty and thirty something demographic.

The city has a mandatory recycling laws yet walking by many people’s homes it is obvious that they do not recycle. Is recycling important? Why do we have a law on the books if it isn’t going to be enforced?
Most certainly, Recycling is important for all of us to be a part of. The city of Duluth recycles quite effectively, now we as citizens should take their lead and do the same. It is in all of our best interests.

Over-flowing garbage cans are a problem in lower East Hillside. Many of the homes where this is a problem are rental units. What kinds of ideas do you have to prompt landlords to encourage their tenants to take better care of their property?
Landlords must be held to a higher standard just as the tenants are to be held to a higher standard. The city could in fact impose a nuisance fine to insure that garbage is being disposed of properly.

In the last census, Duluth had a dearth of people age 24 to 35? What can be done to attract and keep this population in Duluth?
We as a community must refocus our efforts on retaining our younger demographic. As older worker retire there will be a need to replace that workforce. If we do not address this concern now we risk setting ourselves up for failure economically.

This city has yet to settle the retiree’s health care budget. What type of action would you take?
Bottom line, we must do the business of the people and do it now. Both sides are obligated to give a little in order to get this matter resolved. We cannot continue to play games with the people’s tax money. That is just unacceptable. Egos must be checked at the door.

Is paying for health care a problem that needs to be addressed on the city, state or national level?
Universal health care for all is the socially acceptable and correct way to go. Our nationally elected officials have simply not done their job to take care of our best interests.

What makes you unique as a candidate for city office?
Open minded with strong listening skills
Different, refreshing approach to city government
Intelligence with integrity
Has a reputation for working with all people
Strong background in diversity and inclusion
Understands what it means to operate an efficient government for the people
Strong background in community building
Independent thinker
Nationally trained and certified in Undoing Racism as trainer, educator and organizer




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