Family Justice Center offers many services at one location

Caption: Top -Lisa Delvillar visits with Cathryn Curley during the grand opening of the Family Justice Center. Left - The outside of the Family Justice Center at 414 W. First St, the old water and gas building.


By Peggy Anderson
When Lisa Delvillar started working at Safe Haven Shelter for Battered Women in 2003 her co-workers were intrigued with the job she had had just prior to coming to Duluth. Delvillar had worked for a family justice center in San Diego; at the time it was the only such facility in the nation. All the services that a woman needed when leaving a violent relationship were under one roof including legal advice, police, social workers, housing information, child-care, job training, etc.

Now Duluth is one of 15 such centers across the nation. Located in the old Water and Gas Building, 414 West First Street, the Family Justice Center occupies the first floor. Women in Construction remodeled the floor and Susie Vanderstein was the interior decorator. The building has a security entrance and is warm and inviting on the inside.

For six years the staff and board of Safe Haven worked hard to search out funding and the right location to see their vision of a Family Justice Center in Duluth become reality. “We knew it had to be near the Civic Circle to be convenient for our partners to walk,” said Cathryn Curley, director of the Duluth Family Justice Center. Most partners are at the Family Justice Center part-time and come from locations such as the police station, courthouse or County Government Building. Safe Haven secured the funds to purchase the first floor in the building.

Delvillar, now working in the Twin Cities, attended the grand opening of the Duluth Family Justice Center. “I was merely the messenger,” Delvillar said in an interview during the center’s grand opening in February.

The Family Justice Center is composed of several offices and different spaces. One for intake, police, legal advocates, social services, Legal Aid, County Victim Witness Advocate, City Attorney, Housing Access Advocate, a therapist, and a jobs and training staff. There is also a salon, a small and large conference room, a multipurpose room, an exam room, an interview room, and a lounge/kitchen for women to meet and relax.

Though many of the people providing the services listed above will be at the center only part-time, Curley said, “We still felt like we can make those appointments and make them happen.” Women will not be intimidated by having to locate and visit yet another new place for another related service. “They know it is friendly here, and we can sit in with them at their appointments.”

A woman doesn’t have to stay at the Safe Haven Shelter to use these services. It is for women who
have experienced violence either past or present in their personal relationship. Contact the Family Justice Center at 623-1000. Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Naomi Yaeger-Bischoff contributed to this story.

St. Louis County Attorney Melanie Ford’s fight to stop the disproportionate detention of minority youth

St. Louis County Attorney Melanie Ford meeting with representatives of organizations working on issue of detention of children of color.


By Barb Olsen
Back in 2006, Melanie Ford decided to take on what many said would be an impossible task: running for and winning the office of St. Louis County Attorney. One of the reasons she took on that election, Ford says, was because it would give her the opportunity to do something positive for St. Louis County’s youth.
“One of the statistics that troubled me most,” Ford explains, “was the disproportionate number of persons of color in St. Louis County who were incarcerated. Citizens agreed we should find programs to reduce recidivism and crime prevention in youth.

“One of the statistics that troubled me most was the disproportionate number of persons of color in St. Louis County who were incarcerated.”

St. Louis County Attorney Melanie Ford

Now entering her third year in office as St. Louis County Attorney, Melanie Ford continues to make reversing the trend of disproportionate confinement a top priority.
Last October, Ford convened a meeting of people involved with St. Louis County’s youth to talk about how the juvenile justice system operates and how it could be improved. Joining them were officials from the Minnesota Office of Justice Programs, the Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI), and representatives of the Annie E. Casey Foundation. JDAI is one of the nation’s most effective and widespread initiatives for reform in the juvenile justice system, and the Annie E. Casey Foundation funds programs across the country to help meet the needs of vulnerable children and families.
Since that session, a large group of organizations and individuals has joined in this effort to improve the county’s juvenile justice system, including Arrowhead Regional Corrections, St. Louis County Public Health and Human Services, Bois Forte and Fond du Lac tribal representatives, elected officials, judges, school representatives, and agencies that serve youth. And St. Louis County has been selected by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and the Minnesota JDAI to receive technical assistance and, potentially, funding for the project.
“This initiative will help us create a juvenile justice system that will be the best we can offer our children and our communities,” Ford said. “Our goal will be to keep those youth who are involved in the justice system in their own community and out of detention. It’s very expensive to incarcerate people, and studies show that troubled youth who are confined only have greater problems in the future.”
Ford says participants in the project will analyze the county’s existing programs, see what’s working well, and create successful reform strategies for approaches that aren’t working.
“While we recognize the need for detaining some juveniles, we want to eliminate the inappropriate or unnecessary use of secure detention,” Ford commented.
The Annie E. Casey Foundation has invited Ford to be part of a panel discussion this summer in Washington D.C. on how juvenile justice professionals across the country can help reverse the unequal incarceration of minority youth.
Ford encourages anyone with concerns about this issue to contact her at 726-2323.

Greek Cusine: Grape Vine Cafe opens downtown

Caption
Family friend, Ritsa Petrangelo (left) likes to eat at the Grape Vine Cafe, 220 W. Superior St., because the restaurant has authentic Greek food and she feels at home. Debbie Livadaros (center) manages the cafe. Bryanna Raiche, (right) a UMD student, works as a waitress. Livadaros’ husband Alexis and adult children all are part of the business.
(Photo by Naomi Yaeger-Bischoff)

The Livadaros family opened the Grape Vine Cafe at 220 W. Superior Street in October. All family members are active in running the restaurant. Debbie is active in the day-to-day operations, while her husband Alexis helps when he isn’t busy at his day job as an engineer at WLSSD. Jason, age 32, cooks, Christina, age 23, is the front house manager and Katy, age 27, works as a waitress part-time.
The recipes are family recipes, which Debbie learned from her mother-in-law, Katina, and include lunches, dinners, appetizers, salads, soups and desserts
Specialties include gyros, spanakopita (spinach pie) and dolmathes (stuffed grape vines) platter. Greek sandwiches range at about $8 and include bake potato or fries. Lunch is served from 11 to 2 p.m. and dinner is served from 4 to 9 p.m.
A dinner specialty includes roast lamb. Catering is available.
Hours are 11 to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The phone number is 464-4027 and email is GrapeVineDuluth@aol.com

Here is a list of where you can pick up a copy of "The Hillsider."

West
Perkins,
Duluth Grill,
Burger King/Holiday Station,
Salvation Army Community Center
Salvation Army Thrift Store

Midtown Manor I & II and Lincoln Park Community Center


Downtown
Downtown Library,
The Depot
Radisson - Superior Street entrance
Holiday Center
Pizza Luce
Hunter building Skywalk
Coney Island on Superior and First Street
YWCA
Erberts and Gerbets
Saigon Cafe
Sammie's Pizza
Life House for Youth
The Exchange Cafe
City Hall
County building
DeWitt Seitz Building
Fitgers'

Central Hillside
Ma & Pop's Market
Uncle Loui's Cafe
Damiano Center
Rainbow Center

6th Avenue East
Spur Station
ICO Station
Milkhouse


East Hillside
Whole Foods Co-op
Members Community Credit Union
Sir Ben's
Independent Dee Laundry
First Lutheran Church
Plaza Super One
Beijing restaurant in the Plaza

London Road
Burger King
Perkins

Mt Royal
Mt. Royal Foods
Bixby's
Mt. Royal Library

UMD
Kirby Center entrance.

Kenwood
Kenwood Super One

Mall Area
Super One
Cub

Lake Superior College

Nettleton School
Grant School

St. Luke's Hospital

Dancing, music and love:

Twin Port Action Coalition invites you to join the fun on Feb. 13

By Kimberly Dansereau

Valentine's Dance and Silent Auction will be held on Friday Feb. 13 from 7 p.m. until midnight at the Venue at Mohaupt Block, 2024 West Superior St. Proceeds from sales of ticket will go to the Twin Ports Action Coalition. Tickets are $7 for one and $12 for two.

Love and valentine are to many people synonymous with each other. But how are we defining the word love? Do we mean the first stolen kiss from our first" true love" back in junior high school? Or do we mean the love a mother has for her child as she holds him or her gently in her arms, or the love of a protective father? Or, perhaps, the love of a friend or a family member?
Maybe to you love means pride for your city, state and country.

Whatever definition of love suits you best, love is something that should celebrated and should be passed along. I volunteer along with other residents of Duluth and Superior for the Twin Ports Action Coalition, an organization that is dedicated to helping the homeless, the formerly homeless and those who are at risk of becoming homeless. We deal with many things political and social to help end homelessness, and we try to give people who fit into either of those qualities a chance to be heard and to be rightfully informed on what affects them.

We have a love for this city and for the people who live here. We love the people who have been forgotten by many others, we love the people who are struggling to make ends meet, especially in these very tough times. We love people who are struggling for a place to call home, food to eat and to feed their children, good health care, a voice of their own and respect as human beings. We love them because we have been in similar situations.

We at Twin Ports Action Coalition believe that no one should be denied a safe place to call home, good health care, and food for themselves and their families, a chance to be heard and, a chance to be informed about issues that affect their everyday lives. It is simply common decency and respect for others that we should all have as human beings. If you believe this and you feel that you would like to help out in some way please join us Friday, Feb. 13 for a Valentine's Dance and Silent Auction from 7 p.m. ‘till midnight. There will be dancing, music from a great D.J. plus much laughter, enjoyment, refreshments, snacks, door prizes and wonderful items to bid on, but, most importantly, there will be love.

Tickets are $7 for one and $12 for two. Proceeds will go to the Twin Ports Action Coalition.

Record crowd gathers for MLK Day events

Feelings of excitement and anticipation lent a celebratory air to Duluth’s annual Martin Luther King Day festivities last month. Held a mere 24 hours before the inauguration of Barack Obama as the country’s first African-American president, the day’s events broke their attendance records.

The day began with an early morning breakfast at the First United Methodist Church, where Duluth’s African-American Men’s Group prepared food for and served over 350 attendees. The MLK community breakfast in Duluth began in 2002 by churches and committees interested in anti-racism. Each year it is funded by the General Mills Community Foundation.

David Comer, director of the Black Student Association at UMD, emceed the morning event which included prayers, storytelling and music.
Each place setting included a placemat decorated by elementary students from Nettleton and Grant schools. A free-will offering for Kids Cafe of the Damiano Center raised over $750.00
The day’s events were planned by the Martin Luther King Holiday
Committee which includes many groups, agencies and churches.

In addition to free food, the breakfast featured a simulcast speech from Gen. Colin Powell. Touching on the breakfast’s theme, “Because of His Dream, I can... Lead, Grow, Inspire,” Powell said that as a child growing up in the Bronx he never imagined that he would become chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He also credited the integration of the military for helping the United States to become a more integrated society.

Following the breakfast, more than 700 people gathered at the Washington Center at Lake Avenue and Third Street to participate in a march through downtown to a rally at the DECC auditorium. Mothers and fathers with children, older people, and people of all ethnicities marched peacefully and sang songs including, “We shall Overcome,” “This Little Light of Mine” and “Gonna Lay down my Sword and Shield.”

Many shopkeepers stopped to look out their doors and smile.
“Today is a good day to focus on solutions,” urged Vince Senski, who said he was marching because there are still injustices in the world, “not spending billions a year on a war that wasn’t needed and using all the money and resources to improve the lives of people living in our country.”

A crowd estimated at over 1,500 people turned up at the DECC to continue the day’s celebration. Curtis Austin, director of the Center for Black Studies at University of Southern Mississippi gave the keynote address, “Will the Real Martin Luther King Please Stand Up?”
He stressed that King did not come into the civil rights movement without the urging of the women in his congregation and city. Most people do not know that Rosa Parks was a leader in the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) and had stood up to injustices prior to even meeting King.

According to Austin, King was not the first to fight injustice, but he did provide a rallying point at a time ripe for television and newspaper coverage.
“King’s work is the work of so many others,” Austin explained. “He had the uncanny ability to stand up and give others courage to stand up.”

Austin ended his remarks with a final word of encouragement for the audience: “The real Martin Luther King did stand up. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.”

This year Doug Bowen-Bailey and Community Action Duluth won the Justice for Peace Awards. The awards recognize citizens and/or an organization of the community who have gone beyond their regular duties to: build awareness, speak on behalf of justice, celebrate diversity and impel, foster and promote actions toward building a better future for all.

FREE COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR

Thursday, January 22nd., from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1710 East Superior Street, Duluth, MN will host its third annual free community health fair. Booths will offer free testing for blood pressure, blood sugar, bone density, and other services. There will be free healthy foods served from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., samples, goodie bags, door prizes and information will be available, and there will be childrens’ activities. Enter on Grey Solon Road.

All are welcome and everything is free.

For further information: Sue Van Oss 218 724 3535 suevanoss AT stpaulsduluth.org

Website: www.stpaulsduluth.org

MLK Day events, Jan. 19

7:00 a.m. registration and free breakfast, “Coppertop” Church,
7:15 a.m. local program
8:00 a.m. large screen broadcast, Colin Powell’s speech
11:00 a.m. march from Washington Center to rally, Lake Ave. between 3rd & 4th St.
11:45 a.m. Rally, DECC
More events and information www.mlk-duluth.org

Men’s group taps MLK legacy

By Michael Kooi
You’ve seen them ringing bells for the Salvation Army. Raising money to stop the genocide in Darfur. And maybe even introducing a llama to kids in a park.

They are young men of color, and thanks in part to the efforts of Duluth’s African-American Men’s Group, they are developing into the community’s next generation of leaders.
“These are creative and exciting young people,” says AAMG President Carl Crawford. “We need to create a support network for them. It’s our obligation as men to accept that challenge…and reclaim the roles we need to play in our community.”

For the members of the men’s group, this means acting as visible role models in the community, sharing experiences as mentors and demonstrating the value of making smart choices in life.
Since its inception in 1992, the AAMG has done this in a number of ways. To emphasize the value of education as a pathway out of poverty, the group has created a college scholarship in honor of Allen Butler, Duluth’s first African- American police officer. AAMG also provides gifts each year to minority high school graduates as part of a celebration that both recognizes their achievement in graduating but also encourages them to continue on to college or vocational schools.

As important as this financial support can be, the group’s most significant contribution may come through the personal time that members dedicate to mentoring teens and putting them in touch with the world beyond their neighborhoods. Each summer, for example, AAMG members take kids from Neighborhood Youth Services on a fishing trip in honor of Howard Taylor, a late member of the group.

“Some of these kids grew up next to Lake Superior, but they’ve never been on a boat,” marvels Samie McCurley, AAMG’s founder. “It’s just a joy for us to see the smiles on the kids’ faces when they catch a fish. That’s what lets me know I did the right thing in starting the group.”
According to Kelly Looby, program coordinator at NYS, this personal interaction with positive role models makes the kids feel like they “fit in and belong [in this community].” In fact, two former participants in the annual trip, Don Morris and Jamal Winters, have gone on to earn jobs at NYS.

It also helps to bridge the generation gap and form lasting connections for future success. “We have to interact with [these kids] and feed off of each other,” Crawford explains. He says it’s the only way that his generation can understand the challenges facing kids today.
Forming such connections is one of the primary goals of the African-American Student Alliance at Woodland Hills, which founder Cal Harris says was inspired by the AAMG. Harris, a senior youth treatment specialist at Woodland, brings his group to sit in on AAMG meetings periodically.

For AASA members Jesus, Edward and Danny (whose last names have been omitted to protect their privacy as minors), the African-American Men’s Group breaks down negative stereotypes. Interacting with AAMG members gives them the courage to be active in the community by raising money for charitable causes and sharing their experiences with young children. “It keeps us motivated,” says Edward.

A legacy of courage and caring

In their cultivation of tomorrow’s leaders of color, the members of the AAMG draw from the lessons and legacies provided by their own role models. Perhaps nowhere is this connection more explicit than in the group’s contributions to Duluth’s annual MLK Holiday Community Breakfast. The event brings the community together to honor the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and to work toward fulfilling his vision of building a just and interconnected society.
Each year, AAMG members participate by rolling up their sleeves to cook and serve the event’s namesake meal.

“They feed a significant amount of people on a low budget,” explained Doug Bowen-Bailey, one of the event’s organizers and owner of Digiterp Communications. “It’s a big benefit to the community.”

In addition to the free breakfast, the event also provides people from all walks of life with the opportunity to sit down with each other and discuss the issues they face, as well as those shared by the community.

This year’s MLK breakfast will take place on Jan. 19, 2009 at First United Methodist Church, located at 230 W. Skyline Pkwy in Duluth. Breakfast service begins at 7 a.m.

Community Action Duluth: Help with taxes

One hour of your time can help put $2000 in the pocket of a low-income family
Community Action Duluth is now recruiting volunteers to file tax returns for low-income families from January – April 2009.

“We are looking for volunteers who are interested in helping people, networking with other professionals and making a difference in their own community,” said Angie Miller, Executive Director at Community Action Duluth. “No prior professional tax experience is necessary,” Miller said. “Volunteers receive free tax training and are assisted at all times by experienced tax preparers and a reviewer.” Volunteers who serve as screeners, greeters and assistants are also needed. These volunteers do not prepare taxes, however, they are crucial to the overall service provided. To request an application or for more information, call 726-1665 or visit the website www.communityactionduluth.org

During the 2008 tax-filing season, a total of 60 Community Action Duluth volunteers prepared over 1200 federal and state income tax returns for households with an average income of $13,500. The average refund was $1,500 and the cumulative value of refunds secured by volunteers was over $2 million dollars in refunds. “That’s $2 million dollars returned to people who really need it,” Miller said. In addition, the two Community Action tax sites provided free savings accounts, instant refund loans, screening for benefits and free credit reports.

Recycle your Christmas Tree

Duluth, MN—Area residents are encouraged to recycle their fresh cut holiday trees on Saturday, January 3rd, 2009 as part of the annual Western Lake Superior Sanitary District (WLSSD) free “Treecycling” day. WLSSD will hold its annual Treecycling event on Saturday, January 3rd, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Trees collected at the event will be beneficially re-used as fuel, to line paths or other purposes, while recovering valuable resources and saving landfill space.
Residents and businesses can bring trees free of charge to any of the following Twin Port Area locations: Miller Hill Kmart, Mount Royal Fine Foods, London Road Rental, Duluth West Toolhouse (on Commonwealth Ave) or the Superior Target store. These sites will be staffed only during the one-day event and residents are asked to please not drop trees at these sites on any other day. Abandoned trees can cause traffic and safety hazards at these public locations.
Those that can’t make it to the one day event can drop off trees at the WLSSD Yard Waste Compost Site until January 31, open daily from 7:00 am - 4:30 pm. In addition, Veit/Demolition Landfill Services (Gary), SAPPI Fine Paper (Cloquet) and the Moose Lake Compost Site are accepting trees through January 10. Waste Management Recycle America (Superior) and Demo-licious (West Duluth) will be accepting trees through January 31. Trees can also be brought to the WLSSD Materials Recovery Center (at the location of the old Rice Lake Landfill). The Materials Recovery Center is open Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm.
Those bringing trees are reminded to remove all ornaments and tree stands before bringing trees to a Treecycling location. Wreaths, garland and other decorations made from evergreen branches are not recyclable and should be thrown in the trash.
Volunteers at the event will also be accepting donations of non-perishable food items on January 5th to help the local food shelves and to keep the spirit of the season alive by helping others in need.
The Christmas “Treecycling” sponsors and volunteers include Amberjack Tree Service, Carlton County Recycling and Solid Waste, City of Duluth, City of Moose Lake, City of Superior, Covington Transport Inc., Demo-licious, Harv’s Tree Service, Keystone Club of the Boys & Girls Club, Miller Hill Kmart, London Road Rental, Marshall School Student Volunteers, Minnesota Power, Mount Royal Fine Foods, North Country Waste/Cloquet Sanitary Service, Rick’s Tree & Stump Removal, SAPPI Fine Paper, Target - Superior, Superior Boy Scout Troop 213, VEIT/Demolition Landfill Services, Waste Management, Waste Management Recycle America and the Western Lake Superior Sanitary District.
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.

Fiscal Manager wanted

Fiscal manager wanted for "The Hillsider", a non-profit newspaper.
Must live in Duluth.

A $250.00 stipend is offered.

Duties include:
Send out monthly invoices for ads placed.
Mail invoices and tearsheets to advertisers.
Collect checks and money, enter into Quick Books and then deposit.
Balance check book.
Collect expenses from editor.
Write out checks for cartoonist, proofreader, fiscal manager, editor's expenses, editor's pay and editor's commission.
Attend the board meetings.
Reconcile payments with the invoices.
File
Put together finacial reports for monthly board meeting.
Send out 1099's at the end of the year to all person's who received wages.
Put together needed paperwork for taxes.
Send out over due letters and statements.


Location: Duluth
Compensation: $250.00 per month
This is a part-time job.
This is at a non-profit organization.

More police officers needed: city council to decide Mon. Dec. 15

The police department’s future personnel plan for the next four years focuses on
three areas:

1. Filling current vacant positions; some of which have been vacant for years
2. Increasing staffing with the focus on putting personnel into positions that will have the most impact on community service and quality of life
3. Offering developement through training, utilizing a new law enforcement center to establish our agency as a regional training destination in northern Minnesota

Read report
DULUTH POLICE DEPARTMENT 2009 & BEYOND
MOVING FORWARD THROUGH PLANNING,
PARTNERSHIPS AND INNOVATION
click here to read.

Contact your city councilor and councilors at large if you can not attend the Monday night city council meeting. Let them know you support more police even if it does mean $11 a month more taxes.

The Duluth Police Department currently has 139 officers and 26 full time support staff who answered 76,000 calls for service from the citizens and visitors to Duluth. In 1968, the Department had 142 officers and 15 support staff who answered 35,000 calls for service. Now more than ever, the Department is asked to deliver more services to more customers while the level of expected service is considerably higher. As a result, the Department operates at maximum capacity to meet the demands of our citizens and visitors. The patrol division is frequently overwhelmed with calls for service and investigative staff are unable to provide effective follow up on many cases throughout each year. The additional hiring of officers will ultimately result in call reduction, shorter call response time, more effective problem solving and ability to clear cases by arrest and hold offenders accountable.

DULUTH POLICE
DEPARTMENT
411 W. 1st St.
Duluth, MN 55802

Mn/DOT warns: watch out for frosty bridge decks, turn off cruise control

Motorists should be alert for frosty or icy bridge decks, overpasses and ramps now that near-freezing temperatures have arrived in the Arrowhead Region, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

The roadways of bridges can freeze much sooner than the roadway because elevated highway structures are not insulated by the ground. Consequently, even though the main roadway may appear relatively safe, the bridge decks are likely to be frosty or icy, particularly in the early morning and late evening hours.

Another winter driving safety tip is to discontinue use of your vehicle’s cruise control during the winter months. On slippery highways and bridges, use of a speed control device has a great potential to cause rapid and catastrophic loss of vehicle control when the cruise control kicks in on slippery roads.

Motorists should log onto www.511mn.org or call 511 for current road and weather conditions.

Economics, staff changes forces local non-profit to continue with volunteers and part time staff

East Hillside Patch announced this month that it will continue to serve the community despite some recent staff departures. As a result of these departures and the current economic climate, the organization will operate mostly through volunteers and a social work intern. Its three biggest projects are the Health Equity Project, a free after school program named Mind 2 Mind and the needs assessment survey.

Changes in Patch
Cindy Donner, executive director, has accepted a teaching position at the College of St. Scholastica and Jennifer Zapata, youth director, has moved to California to be closer to family. For economic reasons, Patch’s board has chosen not to fill these vacancies.
Instead, the board of directors will take a hands-on role in carrying out administrative duties, continuing the Health Equity Project and supporting Jahna Hardy, the recently hired part-time Youth Program Director, for its Mind-2-Mind program. Tamara Miskovic, an UMD MSW intern, will assist with agency-support duties and complete the neighborhood surveys that began last year.

Extra volunteers needed
As a result of these changes, the Patch office won’t be open on a regular basis any longer. Other than that, the agency continues to seek extra volunteers, more funders and board members. Patch’s focus remains on community development, social justice and youth programs. The agency has secured funding to assist board members in board development and strategic planning, which will begin in the upcoming months.
“Patch is just like the East Hillside and Endion neighborhoods it supports – resilient,” said Mona Cheslak, Patch board member.
For more information about East Hillside Patch please leave a message at the office, 218-728-4287, or e-mail patch@cpinternet.com.

Social work intern
If someone comes knocking on your door to ask what type of needs you have, please take time to answer the questions. That’s the sentiment of Tamara Miskovic, a social work intern at East Hillside Patch. Miskovic said, “Please participate because it’s for you!”

“Please participate because it is for you!”

Tamara Miskovic
on neighborhood needs survey

She said the biggest problems she sees in the East Hillside neighborhood are health care and childcare. She also said young single mothers need support groups and all neighbors need to know what is going on with in the neighborhood and how to network with each other.

Duluth American Indian Commission listens to concerns about barrels of waste in Lake Superior

Caption: Jean Buffalo addresses the Duluth American Indian Commission about the need for more research and risk assessment of barrels of waste dumped into Lake Superior. To the left is her granddaughter, Mayeyna Bressler. To the right is DAIC member Anthony LaDeaux.


By Naomi Yaeger-Bischoff
With concern for the safety of all who live, work and play along Lake Superior, Jean Buffalo, a member of the Red Cliff Natural Resources Damage Assessment Committee, addressed the Duluth American Indian Commission to discuss investigating the toxicity levels of barrels of waste that were dumped in Lake Superior. Between 1959 and 1962 the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dumped 1,457 barrels of waste generated at the Twin Cities Army Ammunication Plant near Duluth.

Buffalo had her granddaughter at her side to emphasize that she learned at her elders’ knees the importance of communication, and that future generations need to be protected from environmental harm.

The Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa received a $600,000 grant from the Department of Defense and has contracted with EMR, Inc., a national environmental consulting firm, to find the location and study the toxicity of the barrels of waste. Suzanne Anderson, a geologist with EMR’s Duluth office, gave a presentation on this summer’s research to determine the location of the barrels.

Buffalo stressed that open communication with all stakeholders (those living around Lake Superior) is paramount. She said that when her tribe ceded their land in the treaty they also took on responsibilities, which they take seriously. One of those treaty responsibilities is to be a watchdog for the health of the land and water along Lake Superior.

Duluth city council member, Jay Fosle was a guest during this presentation. Fosle expressed concern and is interested in the next step of determining if the barrels are toxic and what to do about it for the safety of all. On Sept. 29 Buffalo met with Duluth Mayor Don Ness.
Joy Dorcher, co-chairman of the DAIC, said she appreciated the respectful way the Red Cliff tribe is consulting with other groups such as cities, states, and tribes both in the United States and Canada. She added that if tests prove the waste is toxic there should be no problem getting funds from the federal government to further research and mediate this problem.

Buffalo provided this statement to The Hillsider:
This is in remembrance of an “ancestor”, Kitchie Bezhke (Chief Buffalo), Anton Buffalo, Antwine Buffalo:

And all that came before
You opened
A door
Because of you
Change will come...
Gii go wa ba miin (until then)

Calendar

Nov. 9 & 23 Rehearsals for Puzzle Peace
Youth Choir 2-3 p.m. Peace UCC Church,
1111 N. 11th St. We are planning to sing 1-2
times in Nov. and Dec. and will accept new
singers through Nov. 9. For further
information, call Peace UCC, 724-3637 or
director Cyndi, 728-9774.

Nov. 11 “Examine the Field of Medicine”
event for high school students 6-8 p.m. at the
UMD School of Medicine. 6-7:15 Panel
Discussion in Room 142; 7:15-7:40 Tour of
UMD School of Medicine; 7:40-8
Questions/Answers with Physicians. The
Lake Superior Medical Society is hosting this
event to bring some insight into what it is like
to go through medical school. Don’t miss this
chance to examine the myths, realities, and
rewards for becoming a doctor! This event
has limited space and is free to high school
students interested in a career in medicine.
Call 727-3325. Register by Nov. 5.

Nov. 11 Veterans’ Day March begins at 9:30
a.m. from the Duluth Armory and ends 10:30
a.m. at the Duluth Depot (St. Louis County
Heritage & Arts Center). City of Duluth
Ceremony begins at 11 a.m. at the Depot.
Nov. 13 Lunch with the History People
Craig Grau presents “The 2008 Election”
12-1 p.m. St. Louis County Heritage & Arts
Center (Depot).
Nov. 13 "Sharing Indian Culture from East
and West” Registration is at 5:45 p.m.; dinner
at 6:00 p.m.; program at 7:00 p.m. Unitarian
Universalist Congregation of Duluth, 835 W.
College St. All are invited to a sharing
between Anishanabe people and East Indian
people. Come and enjoy two beautiful
cultures with food for body and spirit. The
menu includes American Indian foods and
East Indian foods. Skip and Babette Sandman
will speak about the Anishanabe culture and
spiritual practices. Indra and Chandra
Mehrota will speak about East Indian culture
and Hindu spiritual practices. $15, no charge
for children 12 and under. Free childcare will
be provided. Sponsored by the Arrowhead
Interfaith Council. Contact Erik at
ernordgren44@gmail.com or phone 310-0966.

Nov. 14 Family Day at the St. Louis County
Heritage & Arts Center 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at the
Depot. Admission to the museums is $2 per
person and includes activities for the kids.

Nov. 16 Benefit for the KAKO Foundation
"Music for All" Program 3 p.m. Mitchell
Auditorium at The College of St. Scholastica.
Sara Thomsen and The Echoes of Peace Choir
Concert with guest storyteller Elizabeth
Nordell, violinist Rudy Perrault, and Three
Altos. $12. Co-sponsored by CSS Center for
Just Living and International Student Club.
For more information about The KAKO
Foundation call 724-3484. For more
information about this concert or about the
Echoes of Peace Choir call 525-6500.
www.sarathomsen.com.

Nov. 17 Duluth American Indian
Commission 5 p.m. City Hall Room 402.
Agenda: Update from Community Police
Officer; Work Plan Schedule for 2009
discussion.

ONGOING
Every Monday Duluth Laughing Club
12:10-12:20 p.m. Duluth Civic Center in front
of the St. Louis County Bldg.
Mondays-Thursdays Kid’s Café After
School Program 3:30-5:30 p.m. Damiano
Center Room 205. Free meal and activities
for children and their families. Children under
6 must be accompanied by adult.
Each Saturday Afternoon Gallery 2:00 p.m.
Tweed Museum of Art, UMD. Free and open
to the public. www.d.umn.edu/tma, 726-8222.
1st Tuesday East Hillside Community Club
6:30 p.m. Grant Rec. Center, 901 E. 11th St.
1st Thursday Central Hillside Community
Club/ND 5 6 p.m. Central Hillside Center, 12
E. 4th St.

1st Thursday Childbirth Collective Parent
Topic Nights 7 p.m. Peace Church, 1111 N.
11th Ave. E. Call Emily at 393-7042.
2nd & 4th Mondays Arrowhead Stamp Club
of Duluth MN and Superior WI 7 p.m. First
Presbyterian Church, 300 E. 2nd St. For more
information call Howard, 722-9016.

2nd Tuesday Free mini ceilis with instruction
7 p.m. at Carmody's Pub, 308 E. Superior St.
Cash bar. FFI call 728-1438.

2nd Saturday Ceramics Sale 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Duluth Art Institute great room in the Lincoln
Building, 2229 W. 2nd St.

2nd & 4th Sundays The Northland Anti-War
Coalition 2 p.m., Chester Creek Café, 1902 E.
8th St.

2nd & 4th Mondays Arrowhead Stamp Club
7 p.m. First Presbyterian Church. 722-9016
2nd Tuesday The Twin Ports Coin and
Currency Club 7 p.m. Rainbow Center
3rd Tuesday Campus Neighbors 7 p.m. Grant
Rec. Center, 901 E. 11th St.

3rd Wednesday Antique Appraisal noon-3
p.m. in the Rotunda of the St. Louis County
Heritage & Arts Center (Depot). Free.

3rd Thursday Duluth Superior Green
Drinks 5-9 p.m., Carmody's Irish Pub, 308 E.
Superior St. Every month people meet up for
informal environmental discussions with
people who think & act in concern for our
ecological future. You do not need to drink
alcohol to attend. Email:
duluthsuperiorgreendrinks@yahoogroups.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/duluthsuperior
greendrinks

3rd Thursday Park Point Community Club
7 p.m. Lafayette Square, 3026 Minnesota Ave.

4th Saturday Gloria Dei Community
Breakfast 9-10:30 a.m. Gloria Dei Lutheran
Church, 219 N. 6th Ave. E.
Submit your calendar events to Mona:
monajc@hotmail.com or 724-1193.

Fall Rally Sunday at First Lutheran

Come be a part of the kick-off of the education year at First Lutheran Church! Rally Sunday will be filled with activity, learning, celebration, and blessing for the whole congregation as we get ready for another year of growing in faith as the people of God.

Registration for Sunday school (age2-grade6) will take place in the Parish Hall from 9:45-10:15 a.m. During registration, there will be activities to do in the Parish Hall, information to check out, and cake to eat! From 10:15-10:45 a.m., we will have a Sunday school “open house”. This will be a time to check out classrooms, meet teacher and have fun.

Also, during the education hour, 9:45-10:45, there will be a “Ministry Fair” with information about various ministry areas of the church. Come learn more about what is happening at First Lutheran and how you can participate and grow in faith.

Taize Worship held the First Sunday of each month at 5:00 p.m. at First Lutheran Church, 1100 E Superior Street, Duluth, MN

Blessing of the Backpacks – Preschoolers to post-grads bring your school backpack, book bag to First Lutheran Church, 1100 E Superior Street, on Sunday, September 7 at either the 8:30 or 11:00 a.m. service for a special blessing for the school year.

ADOPT TWO CATS, PAY ONE FEE

Animal Allies Humane Society’s September goal is 100 cat adoptions

Animal Allies Humane Society (AAHS) of Duluth, in an effort to reduce the euthanization of healthy, adoptable cats, aims to find homes for at least 100 cats during the month of September by offering two cats for one adoption fee of $90.

“Cats are naturally social creatures,” says Linda Baumgarth-Cadotte, AAHS Program Director. “They love having a buddy, and adopters can double their pleasure by providing a loving home and saving two lives.”

In September of 2007, 44 cats were adopted, and 74 had to be euthanized. The vast majority were healthy, adoptable animals that would have made great pets. This September, Animal Allies will strive to find loving homes for at least 100 cats, and reduce the number of cats that have to be euthanized.

“There is an annual flood of cats from May to October,” says Betsy Bode, AAHS Shelter Manager. “We hope to save as many cats as possible during this adoption drive.”

All cats in the Animal Allies adoption program are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and have been examined by a veterinarian, with all age-appropriate vaccinations. To view the cats in the Animal Allies adoption program, go to www.animalallies.net, or visit the City of Duluth Animal Shelter , 2627 Courtland Street , Monday – Saturday, Noon – 4 pm.

Animal Allies Humane Society strives to ensure a lifetime of loving care for every pet by reducing overpopulation, increasing adoption, and fostering humane values. AAHS is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Movies in the Park, Shrek The Third

September 5 Shrek The Third PG 7.55 PM

Twin Ports Outdoor Movies and Audio Visual Resources are giving Movies
in the Park participants the chance to win the DVD's of all the films
shown this season, including special editions and bonus films.  For
more
info log on to: http://www.twinportsoutdoormovies.com/mitp.htm

Please call, after 6:00 PM,  the Twin Ports Outdoor Movies Hotline at
715-392-3480 or log on to www.twinportsoutdoormovies.com  to check for

Clokey’s response to Hillsider Questionnaire

1. Healthcare
The first thing I would do is recognize the fact that perhaps enough is being spent on this issue, but perhaps not serving those who truly need it. Access is available, but if we continue to have doctors and dentists who can selectively say that they will not accept an MA patient adequate access no longer matters. It is understandable that healthcare costs have gone through the roof. The money however is simply ending upon the hands of the insurer or the pharmaceutical companies interested in making a buck. Those funds need to be returned to the provider and should result in quality care for all in need of medical and dental services.

2. Livable wage
The first thing would be to do whatever we could to promote HEALTHY job growth in our community. First, YES we should be able to help those employers to help their employees. Second, I would focus on the quality of jobs coming to our area vs. quantity. 300 new jobs look great on the front page of a paper. But if all those jobs only pay $6.50, then what are we really telling our community?

3. Federal and state aid to cities, and taxes
I can offer TRUE FOCUS ON INVESTMENT...As for youth; cuts continue to be made across the board when it comes to youth. Then quite often we hear the crime among youth is on the rise. Funding that can be restored to such program as the family resources centers and similar programs are vital to those across our state. When centers like ours where shut down statewide, it literally disconnected families and youth, many in vulnerable situations.
I do believe in tax caps for seniors with limited and fixed incomes. The idea that we, at any level, should see it necessary to keep asking more from those who simply do not have it, simply makes no sense to me.

4. Racial inequities
WE ADDRESS THE INEQUALITIES HONESTLY...there are so many out there who have been sucked into the idea that women are not as smart, or blacks always commit more crimes, or native americans always drink.... I have heard them all. Until we as community recognize the value and blessings that we have in our neighbor, equality will never happen. Until we have a true enforcement tool attached to employment and fair housing, discrimination will happen. I would promote this legislation in St. Paul as well as continue to encourage those in our community already taking an honest and sincere stand...as these issues are solved best when they start at home and in the heart.

Brandon Clokey, DFL, statement

My name is Brandon Clokey, and quite simply, I want to be your next State Representative. I am a very proud father of three wonderful children and have been a small business owner for over twenty years. I am a common citizen with real life experience and an appreciation for those around me. I realize there are those in Duluth that will tell you that change is good, while others will say that we are fine living life as we have, and it too is good. While I truly understand the value of both, I am rarely identified as either. Many people who know me are aware I am rarely comfortable with the status quo. My excitement comes from seeking opportunities to improve our community and all of us within it.

I currently advocate for and promote healthy families and parent involvement as the Outreach Coordinator for the Duluth Fathering Project. Other local relationships have included working full time with homeless families through Churches United in Ministry and client advocacy for those in housing transition with Reed’s Board and Lodge facilities.

Throughout my adult life, I have been no stranger to public service. My recent affiliations include being the two-term Board President for the Hillsider Community Newspaper and serving a rare second term as Board Chair for Life House Center for teens and at risk youth. Prior to moving to the Duluth area, this same passion led to my involvement with other boards. This includes the Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (AEOA) and testifying before the K-12 Education Committee regarding the connections between our low-income children and education.

My purpose has been, and continues to be, to serve, enable, and empower those who are not often heard within our communities. The truth is…not only do many in our community not have a voice or presence, they are also not recognized for their abilities and strengths. Strengths that could be a great asset to all of us, if only they were being heard, seen, and recognized.

These experiences have given me the ability to provide sensible, common sense leadership. This same leadership is guided by the concept of doing what is right and SERVING ALL who we are able. This is why I want to be your next State Representative.
Sincerely,
Brandon Clokey

Reinert’s response to Hillsider Questionnaire

1. Health care
Minnesota needs universal health care. We must lead on this issue and stop waiting for a Federal solution. It is stifling our economy, choking local governments, and leaving a wide variety of people (including myself) without health care. I endorse the Minnesota Health Plan introduced by Sen. John Marty and will actively support it as a Legislator. It addresses the insurance side of the equation and makes health care affordable by getting everyone back into one large health care pool. It ensures all Minnesotans are covered, provides for quality care including mental, chemical dependency and dental coverage, and allows patients to choose their own providers.
2. Livable Wage
I support a statewide Living Wage Ordinance and Business Subsidy Act similar to the one I have voted for in Duluth. I support requiring projects to create at least one full-time living wage job for each $25,000 of public business subsidy. A subsidy is a grant, loan below market rate, contribution or assistance that is given to a business intending to create or retain jobs. Currently that living wage is defined as 130 percent of the Federal Poverty Standard for a family of four ($13.25 per hour for 2008) or, if the employer provides basic health insurance benefits then 110 percent of the federal poverty rate for a family of four ($11.21 per hour for 2008).
3. Federal and state aid to cities, and taxes
The federal government must restore cuts to the Community Development Block Grant program and begin reinvesting in America. And Gov. Pawlenty needs to remember there IS more to Minnesota than just the suburbs and restore cuts to local government aid. Both CDBG and LGA are critical to basic services local governments in Minnesota, like Duluth, provide. The drastic cuts to both are being felt by all of us. I also support regional cities across Minnesota joining together in the Legislature to change the laws that stop us from doing simple things like charging non-Duluthians who use our library a small fee for a library card.
4. Racial inequities
We should continue existing affirmative action hiring programs. They are needed. Yet the only lasting way to address issues of racial and cultural inequities is through strong public education. We must redesign Minnesota’s funding of education. Reliance on local levies is creating schools of “haves” and “have nots.” Minnesota should also create a program that allows residents to attend a public college for four years free if they maintain a “B” average or above in high school to encourage more at-risk students to remain in school. And I support continuation of MHFA programs to provide incentives for minority home ownership. Owning a home helps build personal wealth as well as economic security.

Roger Reinert, DFL, statement

In order to be a strong state, Minnesota needs strong cities.
The reason I am running for this MN House seat is that the difficult issues we are facing here in Duluth all require St. Paul’s help, partnership or permission in some way. Every major issue - solving retiree health care, improving our streets, stopping sewer overflows, fixing the zoo, restoring parks and library services – requires us to be successful at the Capitol. We need someone in St. Paul who knows these issues inside and out. I do. That’s why I’m running.
These are serious times. This election gives us the opportunity to send someone to the Legislature with proven legislative experience and a record of accomplishment. A leader who can work with people they may not agree with in order to get things done. A qualified Representative who is ready to hit the ground running in January and fight for Duluth.
In the Legislature I will be an advocate for our natural resources. I believe we must restore Minnesota’s position as the nation’s leader in education and it’s about time everyone had affordable health care. Our infrastructure needs attention now more than ever. I’ll make sure that happens. And, with experienced leadership and a focus on our core industries, we’ll continue attracting good living wage jobs to our region.
Specific initiatives I will pursue in the 2009 Legislative session are:
- Funding for the holding tanks necessary to stop our sanitary sewer overflow problems
- A solution to the Great Lakes Aquarium that makes the state a partner
- Fully funding local government aid to Duluth and St. Louis County
- Increasing Municipal State Aid to Duluth for street repairs
- Funding the necessary training dollars for Duluth Police and Fire
- Establishing Duluth to Minneapolis passenger rail
- Connecting the Munger and Lakewalk trails
- Coordinating state assistance for the next phases of the Heritage Hockey Center
Thank you for being involved in this Primary election and thank you for caring about the future of Duluth.
Roger Reinert, DFL Candidate, MN House 7B

Cole’s response to Hillsider Questionnaire

1. Affordable health care
I believe that our whole health care system is too profit oriented and not focused on developing healthy living. A single payer system needs to be developed that allows everyone to have health care.
2. Livable wage
I do support raising the minimum wage to at least $9 p/hr. Is that a realistic amount is all dependent on the ability of a business to still make a profit and stay in business. Providing incentives to encourage business to pay livable wages is more cost effective than subsidies. Working to better educate/train workers is a key to motivating employers to pay a livable wage. Both the worker and employer will benefit from an educated workforce some employers do not understand or put value on educating workers. I will work to create laws that will require employers to put a higher value on education/training.
3. Federal and state aid to cities, and taxes
I believe we as individuals need to take more responsibility in choosing to help others. We live in a very selfish society and the government is not the solution to pay and help. The government can create laws to encourage the private sector and individuals to help and there are business models that would be win/win for all parties affected by government cuts. Costs are going up on everything and creating partnerships between nonprofits, business, and government is the best way to solve our problems.
4. Racial inequities
Educating the public about these unfair racial inequities is a start, creating tougher laws, and creating livable wage jobs. There are other solutions out there which will require me educating myself about them and talking to more individuals about better ways to solve the problem.

Jay Cole, statement

“Life Is Choice” Duluth
Duluth needs a leader who will work to get behind the Values most important to the taxpayers of Duluth. I believe in the values of fairness, responsibility, equality, and equity for all.
1. I believe that we need universal/single payer health care in Minnesota.
2. Housing is important to allow individuals stability in their lives.
3. Small business is the foundation of our economy and we need to reduce government regulations.
4. I believe we need to be responsible for our environment and not abuse it with chemicals.
5. Our schools need to be accountable and truthful to the Taxpayer and parents more involved in the schools.
6. Every individual has a right to livable wages.
7. I believe in working to get citizens involved in the political process and government decision-making.
8. I believe individuals need to be held accountable for decisions they make that affect others.
9. I believe biblical values are the foundation to successful living.
Contact: Phone 218-213-3939 or Email: jonsatv@aol.com
www.voteforcole7b.org

Marshall Stenersen, DFL statement

I oppose the “Red Plan,” primarily because the citizenry of Duluth was not allowed to vote on the issue. The “Red Plan” as presented, makes bad use of a law designed to help cities of the first class, namely Minneapolis, St. Paul and Duluth, address safety and desegregation problems. The “Red Plan” is too extensive and too expensive. I fear that the manner in which the “Red Plan” was forced on taxpayers will leave, not a chilling, but a freezing effect on the passage of future operating levy referendums, which will inevitably result in teacher cuts, larger class sizes, and program cuts for our children.

To date, the largest bond issue brought under this statute was for the St. Paul School District, which is several times larger than the Duluth School District – and that bond issuance was for under $50 million – six times smaller than the Duluth bonding issue.
The school district, in my mind, even if it is conceded to be in technical compliance with the law, is certainly in violation of the spirit and intent of the law. This plan seems to be more about buildings than it does about desegregation and safety.

I promise to introduce legislation at the 2009 session to address language which will clarify the law to make it consistent with its spirit and its intent. Certainly bond issues of this size should require a vote of the citizenry, no matter its intent. Depending upon actions of the ISD 709 School Board between now and the end of the year, I pledge to meet with my area legislative colleagues in St. Paul, to determine a prudent course of action. However, I steadfastly refuse to make pledges on this issue at the behest of any organization, or spokesperson thereof. My pledges are based on my personal understanding of the myriad of issues and problems involved with the “Red Plan.”

Stenersen’s response to Hillsider Questionnaire

1. Affordable health care
First of all, I would support Sen. John Marty’s bill at the legislature. Beyond that however, I believe we must move towards a single payer system in the State of Minnesota. I am hopeful that our health insurance crisis will finally be addressed at the Federal level. However, I am unwilling to place a bet on success in Washington D.C. We can begin in Minnesota. At one point, not too long ago, Minnesota was an innovator. We can be bold and innovative once again, and begin the movement towards single payer.
2. Livable wage
As a general rule, I oppose corporate welfare of any sort. However, since that is the way jobs are generated these days, I would support incenting business to provide living wage jobs. However, living wage needs to mean something more than providing for wages just over the poverty level. If business is to be rewarded for bringing jobs to Duluth, they must be of the $15 and up variety, not $9 and $10 jobs as is the case with JobZ.
3. Federal and state aid to cities, and taxes
We can and must re-establish the foundation of the “Minnesota miracle” of the early and mid-70’s, when the State of Minnesota was truly a partner with local governments and school districts. That entails increasing local government aids, and more reliance on a truly progressive income tax and less reliance on the regressive property tax. Today cities and counties have few options other than increasing property taxes to intolerable levels or cutting much needed services.
4. Closing unfair racial inequities.
A concrete example is to work to provide universal and affordable health insurance for all Minnesotans. In order to address other inequities, I would offer the following: as a white male, I will never know what it is like to walk in the shoes of a Native American, or in the shoes of an African American. I do know that the only way to break down stereotypes and to begin to understand each other is to engage in an ongoing and constructive dialogue. Whatever growth that has occurred in my life in this area has occurred because I have listened to others.

Daniel Maryland's statement

Our public and private education institutions must teach Industrial and Domestic Arts so our children will be capable of using their hands for creativity. A person is only half educated if they do not know how to use their hands to produce employable value.
This is my philosophy and goal if elected to the House of Representatives.

Maryland’s response to Hillsider Questionnaire

1. Affordable health care
Our country and culture have many social problems. However, keeping Medicare viable and effective is our largest long term public challenge today.
In Minnesota, Medicare, Minnesota Medical Assistance and Minnesota Care furnish health care to a large portion of our population. Along with these health plans and employer furnished health plans, there are still a large number of our citizens without health insurance. For the uninsured, I would propose a base health insurance plan where the premiums would not exceed 6 percent of their gross income. We should also explore the Massachusetts Health Plan which has been in effect for three years and includes all citizens of the state.
I have had the privilege to practice medicine for 50 years in Minnesota and in the 7B District of Duluth. With this experience I see this public issue from both sides. I believe I have ideas to deliver health care with more efficiency and reduced costs.
2. Livable wage
A livable wage issue is complex because of fluctuating economic times. This issue is a symptom of our local larger problem. District 7B has large segments of land not being efficiently used. We need new and vibrant industry to move into our area. Government incentives like inexpensive land and less tax for a period of time will help create a favorable environment.
3. Federal and state aid to cities, and taxes
I am not in favor of our city government to offer loans or bonding which can default. Note the past failed city projects.
With vibrant industry and manufacturing, more citizens are employed which increase revenues and high paid wages which improves our total economy. Therefore, the solution to our wage problem is more industry, manufacturing and employment.
4. Closing unfair racial inequities.
Racial and ethnic inequities have been present in human cultures since the dawn of history. Every civilization has had this terrible track record which eventually destroys the culture. We as Americans must not fall into this trap. Education of our citizens with tolerance is essential. We must judge our fellow Man by their behavior and character, not by their ethnic background or skin color.

Minnesota Legislative seat 7B Candidates answer Hillsider Questionnaire

Retiring representative Mike Jaros will vacate the Minnesota Legislative seat 7B. The following candidates are vying for the seat: Democrats Roger Reinert, Brandon Clokey, John Derbis, Marsh Stenersen, and Daniel Maryland; Republican Allan Kehr, and Independent party candidate Jay Cole.

Each candidate was contacted or attempted to be contacted more than once to participate. Candidates were allowed one press release or statement in addition to answering the questionnaire.

The primary election is Tuesday Sept. 9. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The general election is Tuesday, Nov. 4.

The Hillsider asked all the candidates to participate in our questionnaire. Here are the questions.

1. Health care is on everyone’s mind. What will you do as a representative to ensure that all Minnesotans have adequate access to affordable health care?
2. Half of Minnesota’s jobs do not pay a standard living wage. What is your position on providing subsidies or incentives to employers who provide a livable wage?
3. Federal and state aid to cities have been cut. Basic and important services such as senior meal staff, youth programs in general, those which add to health and prevent crime are affected; also vital services such as residential water have new rules and are expensive.
Question: What can you offer at the state level that would increase access and cut costs to vulnerable taxpaying citizens?
4. Racial inequities in Minnesota exist in most of life’s areas for American Indian and African Americans, they are statistically more likely to suffer: higher infant mortality, shorter life span, less access to health care, fewer high school graduates, higher unemployment, lower income, more often victims of crime, make up a higher percentage of prison inmate population. These historical trends continue to exist today in Duluth.
Question: Describe what specific actions you will take to lead the people of your district to close these unfair racial inequities?

TPAC candidate forum generates large turn-out, vigorous discussion

Twin Ports Action Coalition and the Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless sponsored a candidate forum on Thursday, Aug. 21 at the Damiano Center Cafeteria. The forum was with six of the seven candidates for Minnesota Legislative House 7B seat which, will be vacated by Mike Jaros. Duluth Third District City Councilor Sharla Gardner moderated the forum and Kennedy Horton from the Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless was the timekeeper. “This was a great event, I am glad the candidates came and answered the hard hitting questions about homelessness and poverty,” said Scott Yeazle, Chairman of the Twin Ports Action Coalition.

Sixty people attended the forum, many prepared with questions. The forum will be on PACT TV and was filmed by TPAC Member Shane Pribble.
See the forum on the Twin Ports Action Coalition website at
www.twinportsaction.com
(See the Hillsider questionaire.)

Welcom back college students, spaghetti dinner

Residents all over Duluth will get new neighbors this month as college students make their annual return to town. Lake Superior College started on Monday, Aug. 25, while both UMD and College of St. Scholastica start on Tuesday, Sept. 2.


Reaching Out to Neighbors Nips Problems in the Bud

Getting to know your neighbors can go a long way toward preventing problems. Chester Park United Methodist Church is working to foster good relationships by serving a Good-Neighbor Spaghetti Dinner. Students - along with their parents and friends - and long-time residents are encouraged to attend on Sunday, Aug. 31 anytime between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. The church is located at 819 N. 18th Ave. E., one-half block uphill from East Eighth Street.

If you live in a neighborhood with student residents, please consider hosting a neighborhood gathering that includes your new and current student neighbors as well as your long-term neighbors. Parties have ranged from large potlucks to simply asking people to stop in, say hello and have an ice cream cone. As with National Night Out, traditionally, this is an alcohol-free family event. These gatherings traditionally take place on the Sunday after Labor Day (Sept. 7 this year), however, any time during the first two weeks of September would probably work.
UMD will reimburse residents who host neighborhood gatherings for up to $50 of their expenses. To qualify for reimbursement, you must register your event in advance with UMD by calling Cheryl Anderson at 726-6790.

For questions, call Sandy Robinson at 393-9329. Or, contact The Campus Neighbors Advisory Group at P.O. Box 3262, Duluth, MN 55803-3262, phone 724-4389, email campusneighborsATgmail DOT com.

A simple exchange of phone numbers between students and long-term residents can help ease future tensions. Most students would prefer to receive a phone call from you informing them that they are a little too loud instead of a visit from the police.
Additional police squads will be in place for the last weekend of August and the first two weekends in September to handle house party and neighborhood disturbances. If the situation does get out of hand call 911 for a squad to respond. Community Officer Bill Eickhoff recommends giving your name and number to the dispatcher and asking to have the responding officer call you. If a house becomes a chronic nuisance, please call Officer Eickhoff at 730-5563 to discuss options for resolving the issue. Central Hillside residents may phone Officer Barry Midthun at 730-5564. Leave a message as they may not be at their desks.
Officer Eickhoff will speak at the September 16 Campus Neighbors meeting.

American Indians talk about the future at feast and forum

Niko LaFrinier, age 2, enjoys a slice of watermelon at the Duluth American Indian Commission’s Feast and Forum on Aug. 21. He is the son of Rachael LaFrinier.

The Duluth American Indian Commission focused on the future at its community feast and forum last month at the YWCA’s Trepanier Hall. As part of the program, Michelle Gordon, co-chairwoman of the DAIC, asked attendees to envision the 26 housing units for American Indians and the American Indian Center that the YWCA will soon contain. The facility will also provide space for an art gallery, offices for service organizations and a health-care clinic.
Gordon said she could imagine kids drumming on the stage, feasts like the one that night, artwork and Dr. Joycelyn Dorcher’s medical students visiting the clinic. (Dorcher is also co-chairwoman of the DAIC.)

In addition to the future, some attendees took time to comment on the present. Bart Long, for example, had kind words for Police Chief Gordon Ramsay and the current relationship between the police and the American Indian community. “There is more communication [where] previously there was none,” he explains. “There is follow-up. [Ramsay] calls back.”Ron Boushey, another member of the DAIC said he was impressed with the new city council and that Indian people do have a voice in Duluth. “This community as a whole does not realize that there are many Native American businesses in this town that support the community directly,” said Marlene Diver, a retired social worker. “We have so many successful people.” She cited Jim Perrault Construction, Grey Star Electronics, police officers, foster care parents and UMD professors as examples.

In her address, Melanie Ford, St. Louis County Attorney, advocated fair and vigorous prosecution of crime, focus on preventing crime, truancy prevention and racial fairness, and equal justice. Her office is forming an advisory committee of people involved in the juvenile justice system, service providers and community leaders of all races and ethnic backgrounds in the county.

The DAIC meets the third Monday of each month on the fourth floor of City Hall.

Day of Prayer and Fasting for peace and wholeness in Central Hillside

Day of Prayer and Fasting
for peace and wholeness in our city
Wednesday, August 27
But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you …, and pray to the Lord on its behalf,
for in its welfare you will find your welfare.
Jeremiah 29:7

Day of Prayer and Fasting
for peace and wholeness in our city
Wednesday, August 27

culminating with Worship & Supper at the Damiano Center
(206 W 4th St)

5:00
Worship and Praise
5:30
Prayer Walk
through the Neighborhood
6:30
Soup and Bread with Thanksgiving
at the Damiano Center
(206 W 4th St )

Come and join the Duluth Faith Community to unite in prayer in response to the recent violence in the Central Hillside Community
(For additional information, contact Kim Crawford,
CHUM Organizer at 218-740-2496)

Sponsored by the Community Safety Initiative, a cooperative program of CHUM, NHS, and the Duluth Police Department



Please pray
for the Central Hillside neighborhood

for our neighborhood leaders:
police, firefighters, elected officials, business leaders, community organizers, parents;

for safety and security
in our homes, on our streets,
in parks and businesses and schools;

for a fountain of hope to spring up,
hope for deliverance
from despair, emptiness, addiction, violence, poverty, racism, homophobia, abuse, and other sin which holds us down;

for God’s presence, power and peace
in our lives and in our city.

Iraq Moratorium anti-war vigil

Event: Iraq Moratorium anti-war vigil
What: Protest
Host: Northland Anti-War Coalition
Start Time: Friday, August 15 at 4:30pm
End Time: Friday, August 15 at 5:30pm
Where: Canal Park [in front of the DeWitt Seitz Building

7B Candidate Forums

Sponsored by the 7^th Senate District DFL

No charge for these educational eventsMeet the DFL Candidates for the7B House of Representatives Seat. Hear their positions on issues that are important to you.

August 15-------Lincoln School Cafeteria 2423 West 5^{th Street}
August 26------Morgan Park Auditorium 1243 88^th Avenue West
September 4-­--MacArthur School Auditorium 727 North Central Avenue

All forums begin at 6:30 pm with a

Question and Answer period.

Following the forum the candidates

will be available to meet and talk

with voters individually

Progressive Action sponsors candidate forum

Progressive Action Hosts 7B Legislative Forum August 13Progressive Action is hosting a forum on Wednesday, August 13. The forum will be held in the Duluth City Council Chambers, on the third floor of the Duluth City Hall, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on the 13th. Of the seven candidates, the six Democrats and one Republican have confirmed they plan to participate, including Democrats Roger Reinert, Brandon Clokey, John Derbis, Marsh Stenersen, and Daniel Maryland and Republican Allan Kehr. Independence Party candidate Jay Cole is not able to take part in the forum.

Moderators for the forum will be Progressive Action President and local columnist Barb Olsen and Progressive Action Steering Committee member Patrick Boyle. Questions for the forum will be put together by Progressive Action members and the organization' s Steering Committee, and additional questions will be taken in written form from the audience. No questions will be shared with any candidate prior to the forum.The forum will be recorded by PACT-TV (Channel 7 on Cable) and broadcast multiple times, on dates and times to be announced soon. The event is free and open to the public.

Progressive Action is a group of volunteers in Northeastern Minnesota and Northwestern Wisconsin formed after the death of Minnesota Senator Paul Wellstone to continue his work on issues such as affordable housing, living wages, and electing progressives to office. For more information, see www.prog-action.org.