Herb Bergson answers "The Hillsider" questionniare

Click here to see "The Hillsider" questionnaire

Editors note: Bergson's questionnaire is on the web only as it did not meet the paper deadline.


1) Please tell us a little bit about yourself: I am a 50 year old guy who feels very fortunate to have a job he loves. I am also a new grandfather.

2) Family. I have been married to Jacqui for 21 years and we have two sons, David and Jesse and now a granddaughter, Hannah Marie.

3) Educational background. I attended UW Superior and majored in Criminal Justice and minored in elementary education.

4) Employment background. I have worked as a railroad switchman for the Soo Line for 11 years, a police officer for 19 years, mayor of Superior for 8 years and mayor of Duluth for 4 years.

5) Volunteer background. 6 years on the board of directors of the Duluth Boys and Girls Club, a mentor at Mentor Duluth, a regular visitor/cook at the Lifehouse teen center and a coach for DAYBA basketball and West Duluth Little League for eight years.

6) Hobbies. Golf, camping, all sports and anything with my sons.

7) Your address and contact information. 9421 Lanigan Blvd, 260-1937. website = HerbBergson.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?

We are all different. How boring would it be if we all were white males with blue eyes? I enjoy my time in both the Hillside and Lincoln Park. They are unique neighborhoods that should remain a wonderful mix of cultures. we support the ethic and cultural events in the hillside and we look forward to the variety.

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?
9a) If so, what do we do about it?
9 b) If not, why not?

We can’t tell people they can’t live in Duluth based on where they came from. My family arrived five generations ago from Europe. What if someone had told them they couldn’t live in Duluth? I recently met a doctor from SMDC. He recently moved here with his family from Chicago.


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?
The plans to end poverty and the plan to end homelessness are a good start. The worker’s maintenance position we have created will help also. It allows new workers to get a job, even though they perhaps couldn’t afford to go to school or receive training.


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?

Of course it is important. Every item we waste requires creating another to replace it and it uses fossil fuels to produce the item. The city recently became an eco-city and we are practicing what we preach. We are now using green cleaning products, using scooters for site inspections and using better policies at the steam plant.

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

I am not sure which law you are speaking of, but it doesn’t make sense.

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?

Our solid waste compliance officer is currently reviewing a list I had compiled of homes and apartments with debris in their yards and on their porches. There will be citations issued for those who refuse to comply.

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?

Respecting the rise of the creative class is important. The young people today are taught new and different methods and they want to live where their ideas are accepted. Northland Works is a program suggested and developed by our Workforce Development office. It will steer 75,000 young people into fields where vacancies will occur over the next 10 years.

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

The six step plan I took to the legislature is a good first start. I have stood firm on what the citizens can afford and we must stop handing out this benefit to new hires. Four of the five labor unions understand it has to stop, but the largest will not without a trade off." The problem was ignored for more than two decades. I said I would work on this issue and I have, in spite of a great deal of criticism from labor leaders.

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

If the federal government would do the right thing and create a national healthcare plan, it would help Duluth a great deal. We aren’t the only city in an unfunded liability problem. Many cities have much larger problems. Duluth just happens to be doing the right thing and is working to resolve it.

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

Of course, there are way too many people who can’t afford healthcare for themselves or their loved ones, yet their taxes are paying for a very healthcare for others. It makes it tough to justify.

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

Right now, we are short staffed. We are short staffed because we can’t hire in certain departments without offering new employees a healthcare plan for life. It would be the politically easy thing for me to do to hire some people now, but our children and grandchildren would have to pay for that decision 20-30 years from now.

19) What makes you unique as a candidate for Mayor?

I have a blend of experience from both the political world and the law enforcement world. With my knowledge of law enforcement issues, I am able to better understand the needs of the police department and its officers. I have not shown any weakness in my resolve to fix the retiree healthcare issue. While some ask for more, I have refused to back down. I treat your tax money like it is my money.


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John Socha answers "The Hillsider" Quesionnaire

John Socha Candidate for Mayor

Life long resident of Duluth's central hillside

U W S Graduate

1976 Psychology

Self employed Patriot Aerial Photography

private pilot

Charitable Gaming

Mgmt.Tribute Softball Promotions

Military Service US Army 1970-72



Help seniors in my neighborhood

Avid Outdoorsman

Health Conscious

YMCA member

Contact Information

PO Box 44255 8018.



Ethnic diversity ???

We are all citizens of Duluth. We all belong to one population.There are no differences in our human nature.Our ideals and values reflect on our city and to that end we are as one.



9. Affordable housing in Duluth is for its scitizens, funded by its citizens.Transients seeking refuge here must be intensively screened , and offered no guarantee of occupancy.

10. Poverty concerns all communities.Solutions include humanitarian assistance provided for by city, county, state and federal programs.Being aware and sensitive to its growth or decline will assist in maintaining control over its existence.

11. 12. 13. Recycling must be demanded of waste disposal services.Landlords must insist on recycling from their tenants or be cited for violations of the recycling mandate.When citizens complain of improper waste control at rental units in their neighborhood accountability falls on the occupants and landlord .Violations will be cited.



14. What can a city offer its citizens to maintain their interests to stay in Duluth ??

Employment may not be the whole answer. Promoting a wholesome environment may retain their interest. One without crime, one with abundant healthy activities, one which nurtures a bright future. Just how that is accomplished has mystified many communities, not only Duluth.



15. Those recipients of the program must be made aware of it's unrealistic nature and nobly accept a more realistic healthcare program.The citizens should not be responsible for funding such an extraordinary program especially when the future of Duluth and its citizens hangs in the balance.



16. Health care is provided to a degree from county and state programs which base payment on income status.The best deterrent to paying high healthcare premiums is a healthy lifestyle.



17. Healthcare costs are no doubt a constant concern of all citizens in Duluth. Our county and state programs are among the best in the nation which attracts too many transients seeking their benefits.



18. Providing trenchant leadership and a clear focus of our goals will unify all departments to providing productivity efficiently.



19. As a candidate for mayor there is nothing unique.We all share the same concerns; we all seek the best leadership to provide our services.


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Greg Gilbert answers "The Hillsider" questionnaire

Click here to see "The Hillsider" questionnaire for City candidates

1. About myself: 2. Family; I am married to Cary Thompson-Gilbert. We have been married 25 years. We have three children: Amy, age 19; Ana, age 13; and Haviland, age 12.

3. Educational Background: I graduated from high school at Duluth East. I obtained my B.A. degree from Hamline University, St. Paul. I graduated with a law degree from the University of Minnesota Law School.

4. I have been a business development attorney in Duluth for 22 years. I am also a part-time instructor at Lake Superior College. I have been a member of the Duluth city council for 10 years. I represent the 2nd District which includes east Duluth from 14th Ave. East to 40th Ave. East, and Chester Park and Kenwood.

5. Volunteer: I help teach Sunday school at church, and I have coached several youth soccer and other sports teams. I am also a volunteer director of the Duluth Legacy Fund and the Great Lakes Aquarium. I have held many other non-profit board positions in housing and economic development organization.

6. Hobbies: Fishing, camping and skiing.6-1/2. Political endorsements: Duluth Firefighters, Central Labor Body, Duluth Building and Construction Trades, AFSCME Council 5, Hotel and Restaurant Employees and Progressive Action7. Address and contact information; 348-1935, and ggilbertduluthAT aol DOT com

8. Diversity: Diversity in the Hillside and Lincoln Park is a huge advantage for Duluth because it allows us to bring together a broad range of backgrounds and experiences to address city issues.

9. Immigrants and crime: I think this issue needs more study. Many people have opinions one way or another based on rumors, impressions or anecdotal comments from other people. If we are going to create meaningful policy to solve crime, we have to know the facts, and this research has not been done yet.

10. Poverty: Poverty and low wages is a big problem in Duluth. This is true for working families as well as people on fixed incomes. The city must pursue economic growth that produces living wage jobs for everyone. We must do our best to keep down city charges for taxpayers by being efficient.

11. Recycling: I think a huge percentage of our residents recycle but we can do better. The city and haulers need to make recycling as convenient for residents as we can, but individual residents must take responsibility as well. The city can do a better job of educating people on the benefits of recycling.

12. Laws on the books not being enforced: The city does have a general problem with consistency in enforcement of ordinances. The reasons vary depending on the particular ordinance. Most times the reason is lack of staff to enforce ordinances. The city focus more attention on "quality of life" ordinances and get rid of unimportant laws.

13. Over-flow garbage; The city should have an ordinance that requires property owners to remove containers from the curb and prevents over-flowing of containers. The is the type of quality of life ordinance that should be enforced.

14. Young people: In order to keep young people in Duluth, they need well paying jobs that are career positions. They need employment opportunities where they believe that they are making a difference. The city can a lot to help with this.

15. Retiree health care. The problem is serious but manageable. The ability to invest funds with the State Board of Investments cuts the liability significantly. Employees have made concessions which is important. We can improve city management of the plan. We have a new drug program that will cut costs. The city must work with retirees to lower costs.

16. Paying for health care. Rising health care costs are a problem for everyone. The federal government is in the best position to solve the problem through a plan for universal or single-payer plan or something similar.

17. Health care bills: I know a lot of people, especially families, who have trouble paying health care costs.

18. City departments: The city's management structure needs improvement. Employees of the city do great work, but we could all be more productive if departments could be better organized.

19. Unique for mayor. I believe my ten years of service as a city councilor, and 22 years experience as a business attorney in Duluth gives me a unique background to be able to lead Duluth into the future.Powered by WebRing.

Don Ness answers "The Hillsider"Questionnaire

Click here to see "The Hillsider" questionnaire for city candidates

Please tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in the Hillside. I was the oldest of four boys, preacher’s sons, and I attended Grant Elementary, Washington Junior, and Central High School before taking a Hunt Scholarship at UMD. I’ve served on the council for 8 years, including two terms as council president. I’ve tried to serve the community with integrity, civility, and an innovative approach to public service.

Family
I am married to the most wonderful person I know, my wife Laura. And we have two little kids – Eleanor is 2 and James is 7 months.

Educational background
I graduated from UMD with a degree in Business Administration and Economics. I am a Humphrey Policy Fellow and have taken graduate-level course work in Management.

Employment background
I am the Programming and Policy Director for the Zeppa Family Foundation. Previously, I worked as Congressman Jim Oberstar’s Campaign Manager.

Volunteer background
Over the past ten years I have been a mentor, a reading partner, a basketball coach, for two years I’ve been festival director for Homegrown Music Festival, I founded the Bridge Syndicate and several smaller community initiatives, and I’ve served on many different board of directors including organizations like: YMCA, Red Cross, Renegade, Duluth DFL, and the Music and Arts Collective.

Hobbies
Reading, noon-time basketball at the Y, attending local music and theater, spending time with my family.

Your address and contact information
Don Ness
717 E 13th St
Duluth, MN 55805
724-4184
don AT nessformayor DOT com

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 feel very fortunate to have grown up in the Hillside, living in a community with such great diversity – I think I am a better person for the experience. My first involvement with city government was serving on Duluth’s very first Human Right’s Commission.

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.

Some people blame the increase in neighborhood problems such as crime on immigrants from Chicago, Milwaukee and Minneapolis. Do you think it's true?
There is absolutely no question that there are folks coming to Duluth from larger communities to sell drugs and who have a terrible influence on our community. We cannot afford to believe otherwise. There are also people from larger cities that are bringing real value and positive energy to our community – those folks should not be punished for the actions of others. Duluth must be a welcoming community to those that want to bring positive value to our city.
9a) If so, what do we do about it?
Focus on behaviors. There should be absolutely no tolerance for those coming to our community to sell drugs, commit crime, or damage our neighborhoods. It doesn’t matter to me what a person’s background , race, or income is, what matters to me is what kind of person they are. Are they a positive influence or a destructive one? If they are a destructive force in our community, then I’d encourage them to either change their behaviors or leave Duluth.
9 b) If not, why not?

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?
The key is an investment in Work Force Development – investing in the skills and talents of our residents to meet the specific needs of local employers. We can start moving people into better paying careers and benefit local employers – it’s a win – win.

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 – our family is committed to recycling. Each person’s goal should be to produce more recycling material than garbage every week. That’s our family’s goal and most weeks we are successful doing that.

12) Why do we have a law on the books if it isn’t going to be enforced?
Many community laws are in place with the expectation of voluntary compliance. That’s the way our government works without imposing a police state. However, when folks choose to blatantly ignore the law, the city must be willing to enforce it and pass out fines.

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 council has begun to address many of these quality of neighborhood issues - focusing on the responsibilities of residents – including landlords and their tenants.

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?
I have spent the past 10 years working on this issue and will continue to do so. We have to provide additional civic, cultural, and economic opportunities to our young people. The health of our community’s future depends on it.

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

We have to stay true to the recommendations of the Task Force. First and foremost, we need to have completed contracts in place in order to move forward with a number of cost saving measures called for by the report.
16) Is paying for health care a problem that needs to be addressed on the city, state or national level?
Yes, at all levels – starting from the top down.

17) Have you or anyone you know, had trouble paying a health care bill or worried about how much health care would cost?
Our nation’s health care system is nothing short of a travesty. Per capita we pay 50% more than the next most expensive country (Switzerland) and yet we have over 80 million uninsured, and millions more who are struggling to hold on to their insurance.

18) Do the city departments work well together? How can inter-department work be done more efficiently?
There is certainly room for improvement. Most importantly, we need to improve the working culture at city hall. We need to protect city workers from the burden of politics and give them the tools needed to do their jobs well. We need to increase our customer service and create a “can-do”, cooperative attitude in city government.

19) What makes you unique as a candidate for Mayor?
I bring a positive, cooperative, and innovative approach to public service. My goal as mayor would be to bring city government system and city politics into the 21st century. We’re planning to shake the dust off of these old systems and make them work for the people of Duluth.


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Meg Bye answers "The Hillsider Questionnaire"

Click Here to see the Questionnaire

Please tell us a little bit about yourself:
#1. I am the oldest of 9 children, while growing up I was often left in charge. From an early age I learned mediation, interpersonal and problem solving skills. I moved to Duluth in 1961 and worked for years in the community and was elected to the Duluth City council for 12 years from 1973 to 1985.

Family
#2. Husband, Don; Son, Dan (Vanessa); one stepdaughter, and her children; Daughter, Ra’a (Deceased)

Education
#3. BA, Mathematics, College of St. Scholastica; MA Candidate, Management, CSS; Civil and Family Mediation Training, Hamline Law School (Qualified under Minn Court Rules)

Employment
#4. Human Rights officer. Executive Director of Arrowhead Food Bank. Federal Community Action Program Monitor. Mathematics teacher.

Volunteer Background
#5. SHARE food drive. Woodlands Hills Board. Blood Donor. Empty Bowl MN Housing Finance board. Governor’s Crime Commission. Minnesota Labor Interpretive Center Vice Chair.

Hobbies
#6. Gardening, Pottery, Reading, Walking

Address and contact information
#7. Live at 609 W 2nd Street Duluth, MN 55806. Campaign mail at P.O. Box 16522, Duluth, MN 55816 Phone # 727-4965 megby4mayor AT yahoo DOT com
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?

#8. A vibrant community depends upon the interaction of a diverse population. Our economic development will depend upon our ability to attract and keep people from all ethnic backgrounds as members of 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?

#9. NO

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

#9b If not, why not?
Fearmongering and blaming others will not solve our crime problems. We are all community members of Duluth and all of us are Duluthians. Many of us were born elsewhere and have become Duluthians by choice. If people move here, they are part of us. If you’re thinking of drug dealers or gang members they belong in jail wherever they live or came from.


#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 am excited by the ideas being developed for the Blue Print to end Poverty. Reducing barriers to full participation in Duluth’s economic life by ALL people will be key in this effort. I support increasing the living wage in Duluth, and expanding job training programs.


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?


Yes, we as a city must not rely on law alone. The ethos of ‘City Wide, City Pride’ should be year round and not just one week. We must be champions of all the ways that people can Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.


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

This is a common problem in government. When short handed, as we are currently; it is a difficult if not impossible to enforce everything all the time. However, we do not have and we need adequate police, zoning and inspection staff.


#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 responsibility for waste removal lies with the owner. Our ordinance requires each owner to ensure waste removal. I was on the city council when we passed mandatory waste removal for each property. In some neighborhoods this needs to be better enforced.


#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?


The challenge is to provide job opportunities and quality of life amenities for this population. This issue has generated much attention in the last few years. I am encouraged by the efforts of the Downtown Council and the Workforce Institute.


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

First, I would implement every recommendation of the 2005 taskforce report which remains viable but still undone. Most importantly, is to engage the retirees to whom we’ve accumulated this obligation to gain their cooperation in reducing future costs. I am the only candidate to advance a complete, practical approach to dealing with this problem on a long term basis.

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

Ideally, this country needs universal, single payer healthcare access for all. Lacking that, we need to look for ways to engage local providers and consumers in a collaborative way that will reduces costs and emphasize wellness. I am intrigued with the prospect of uniting consumers, providers and the whole community in developing a regional wellness program.


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

Yes, in fact almost everyone I know including friends, neighbors and my own family.


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

No. The system in place must be changed drastically to reward and promote a team approach to service delivery. No department can stay just in their own little cubicle. Every employee works for the city, not a specific department. City departments must work together with all others to provide quick and competent service to all citizens.


#19. What makes you unique as a candidate for Mayor?
I am the only candidate with the unique combination of political and administrative experience in city government that will allow me to providing strong leadership from day one. My background in mediation, organizational development and my experience in service to this city is not matched by other candidates in this race. This year the best prepared candidate is a woman.



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Charlie Bell's Answers to "The Hillsider Questionnaire"

1. Family
I have been a single parent for 20 years. Nicole, my oldest daughter, is a student at Lake Superior College and works for SMDC. My son, Charlie, graduated from The University of Minnesota's Institute of Technology with a Master's Degree in Engineering. My baby, Natalie,graduated from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management in May, 2007. My Grandson, Ian is a student at MacArthur West Elementary School.

2. Education
I grew up in Duluth and attended Longfellow and Laura MacArthur Elementary schools, and West Junior High School. I graduated from Shattuck School, a college preparatory school in Faribault, Minnesota, in 1968 and received a B.A. Degree in Political Science from UMD in 1972. I also attended the school of Mortuary Science at the University of Minnesota in 1972-73.

3. Employment
My brothers, Tom and Frank, and I became business partners buying Bell Brothers Funeral Home in 1973. We sold the business in 1998. I have since built Spirit Valley Assisted Living I & II and now working on a 15 unit town home development, Bayhill, in the western part of Duluth.

4. Volunteer backround:
*Boy’s and Girl’s Club of Duluth – President
*Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce – President
*Duluth Park’s and Recreation Task Force
*First Witness – Board of Director’s
*Ordean Foundation – President
*St. Luke’s Board of Directors
*Scottish Rite Language Clinic for Children – Chairman
*Spirit Valley Citizen’s Neighborhood Development Association – President
*United Way Board of Directors
*Scout Master – an Eagle Scout since the age of 15.

5. Hobbies
Working on community projects is what I enjoy spending time on – whether it is judging at local 4-H events, being in a dunk- tank for our local churches, helping small groups find funding for the many fine projects they do for our community.
I do enjoy golfing and fishing when I have the time. And even though it is not a hobby, I do enjoy anytime I can spend with my children.

6. Address and contact information
Charlie Bell – 226 N. Central Ave. Duluth. Mn. 55807 218-624-0164

How do you see Duluth’s ethnic diversity as an asset to Duluth?
It can and should be a catalyst for creating leadership and economic opportunities for a racially and ethnically diverse city. We need to provide a voice to surface and tackle issues of discrimination, racism and bigotry, and to inspire our city to value differences, to be sensitive to prejudice, and to reflect the society we serve.
Ethnic diversity should be embraced as a positive factor in Duluth. The key is communication and mutual respect.

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.

Blaming the increase in neighborhood crime on the immigrants from Chicago, Milwaukee, and Minneapolis. True?
I have the endorsement of the police union because they know my commitment to all areas of our city and to the issue of safety and crime. Where ever our crime issues are coming from we need to address them. It doesn’t solve the problem of crime by labeling where they may be coming from. We must optimize public safety and security by ensuring that budget challenges do not lead to the deterioration of police protection. Visible, uniformed police officers, whether patrolling on foot or in squad cars, provide an effective means of limiting crime and enhancing citizens’ sense of security.

What are some ideas to bring Duluthians out of poverty?
You need leaders who understand the reasons and emotions that revolve around the issue of poverty. I was a part of a group that detailed “Blueprint to End Poverty”. Duluth has addressed what needs to be done in this area and it is called Community Action Duluth (CAD). We need educated and compassionate leaders who will look at the issue of poverty from outside the box. Increasing educational and training opportunities for those in need of better jobs and more income is really the key to the issue of poverty.

What to do when it is apparent that people don’t recycle? Is recycling important?
Absolutely!! This is a serious environmental issue! You could call the City of Duluth’s Solid Waste Compliance Officer at 730-5151 or Building Safety at 730-5300. Maybe friendly reminders to the landlord or possibly ticketing chronic violators. But the owner is more likely to respond to a thoughtful, courteous and respectful neighbor before getting city officials involved. Make the recycle bins as easy to receive as possible and get local churches and community centers to sponsor “How to recycle” clinics on a monthly or by-yearly basis. You have got to make the issue important to the people and they are the ones that need to see it as important otherwise enforcement gets to be a big burden on our police and we won’t have the budget to enforce. So the emphasis needs to be on educating our citizen’s as to the vital importance of this issue. We should create incentives for landlords to comply with the recycling laws.

Why do we have a law on the books if it isn’t going to be enforced?
There is a priority placed on what gets enforced – as far as our laws go – and the recycle laws are not seen as the most important and so they are not always enforced. We need to understand that if we can’t enforce the law we need to appeal more to the common sense or will of our citizen’s. It is hard to put a mandatory law to recycle on the books when we know it is very hard to enforce year in and year out. We hope that the laws we do make are of importance and enforcement will happen.

Over-flowing garbage cans at rental units. Ideas for landlords to encourage tenants to take better care of property?
You’ve got to appeal to the Landlords and make them want to keep their property looking good. Give them incentives for keeping their properties in excellent condition. We can also set up penalties for violaters. Calling the garbage haulers to come and take the excess garbage away and bill the landlords or renters might be an option. If I were elected mayor I would meet with the neighborhoods that are expereincing these issues and work with them for solutions. There is a Landlords group where they could share ideas and get feedback. Arrowhead Multi-Housing Association in Duluth. 1794 Wildwood Rd. 218-525-1805.

What can be done to attract people in the age bracket of 24-35 to Duluth?
This is the age group of people raising young families and establishing careers. We need good educational and recreational opportunities for their children, professional jobs with opportunities for career growth, wages that will sustain young families in a comfortable lifestyle, affordable family housing for first time buyers. This could mean encouraging our more elderly couples to move by providing them with opportunities for good senior living spaces. Encourage economic development by helping existing businesses expand, and giving new businesses help to locate here in Duluth.

What type of action would you take to settle the city’s retiree health care budget?
Reduce the expenses of the plan, aggressively manage the plan, reduce the costs of the plan (go to deductibles and fully insure post 64 year olds), make sure that post 64 year olds are using Medicare Part B. Follow through with the Task Force that was created to see this problem through and make sure their ideas and work is used.

16. Is paying for health care a problem that needs to be addressed on the city, state, or national level?
All 3.

Have you or anyone you know had trouble paying a health care bill or worried about how much health care would cost?
Yes. One of my campaign workers daughters had a severe medical issue last year. The young woman was only 24 and had to have surgery to remove a mass in her breast. This young woman had a good health insurance that paid 80% but the still left her to pay 20% or $4,000.00. Needless to say that was a huge medical bill for this young college graduate to start paying off. I have a friend who could retire except that a spouse has a medical condition so he has to work for the health care benefits.They can never afford the health care and might not be able to get health care for his sick wife.He is still working at age 62. So of couse I am aware of the needs of these people..they are my friends and family members! That’s why I feel so strongly about running for mayor..I want to help in any way I can.

How can inter-department work be done more efficiently…getting city departments to work well together?
By fostering good communication and leadership from the mayor that allows discussion and group discussions. Having leaders that have a positive attitude and an environment at work that is optimistic. We need to work for cooperation and not competition. We need to bring staff together and show them that their opinions and comments are important. Train staff in areas of interpersonal communications and understanding their own communication style.

What makes you unique as a candidate for Mayor?
I am one of very few candidates running for office that has not held a political position. I also feel not being affiliated with a specific party is unique. Both of these qualities also make me the best candidate. I have not spent time, like city counselors, passing ordinances and policies, instead I have been DOING leadership, economic development and financial decisions. I have over 30 years in business and would use that in leading this city.

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Mayoral candidate Reiner Nelson answers "Hillsider Questionnaire:

Click here to see "The Hillsider" quesionnaire for the City candidates


1) Please tell us a little bit about yourself: My name is Reiner Nelson, I am a West Duluth resident, I work for a small business installing furnaces. I worked for the railroad til I was 30 yrs old., they downsized and I went into heating and a.c. trade and that takes me til now. I enjoy hunting and fishing and outdoor activies with my family.

2) Family: Wife: Randi, Daughter; Jenni, Son: Carl

3) Educational background: High school and two apprenticships and life experiences.

4) Employment background: Railroad and heating and cooling.

5) Volunteer background: assistant for little league coach for 5 years.

6) Hobbies: hunting and fishing and any outdoor activities.

7) Your address and contact information: 1024 S. 72nd Ave. West, Duluth, 218-624-3506.

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 ? Because it gets a person used to dealing with different ethnic groups from when you were young all the way through your life. As you get older you get more in tune with what other people are like.

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? From what I hear, yes.

9a) If so, what do we do about it?some kind of residency requirement. There are people that have lived in Duluth that need help that are not getting it and the newcomers are walking in and getting all they need.

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?We need to bring better paying jobs to the northland, make us business friendly, we have the people and resources to make new businesses grow.

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 important. I think many more people are realizing it themselves. I was slow at this myself but now I'm on board also.

12) Why do we have a law on the books if it isn't going to be enforced? They keep adding laws to make it better but they never take the old ones off the books.

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? Put the cans on the porch, no in all seriousness, people have to take a little pride in their own environment, common sense and respect of one's property, whether or not they own it or not. Treat it with respect.

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 ?Once again good jobs, but we have to keep spending down also so that our people can afford to live here too.

15) This city has yet to settle the retiree's health care budget. What type of action would you take? Without knowing all the inside information, I would keep up what the Bergson administration started and look to more options when elected.

16) Is paying for health care a problem that needs to be addressed on the city, state or national level? If we had a national health care plan (like Medicare) the city and state could move on to take care of city and state problems

17) Have you or anyone you know, had trouble paying a health care bill or worried about how much health care would cost? Not to my knowledge.
18) Do the city departments work well together? How can inter-department work be done more efficiently? As far as I know they do.I guess when I get there as mayor we will find out.

19) What makes you unique as a candidate for Mayor? I am a worker ant like most of the people in Duluth. I feel that I am in touch with some of the problems we all have. I am not a politician, but someone who would like to see this city move forward to a bright future. I would be a hands on mayor, that is I will be out there in the neighborhoods finding out what we as citizens need. We don't need status quo, we need fresh eyes to bring positive attitudes back to Duluth.

Thank you, Reiner Nelson, just remember Duluth Can Be Finer With A Vote For Reiner.


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“The Hillsider” Questionnaire for City Candidates

“The Hillsider” Questionnaire for City Candidates


Please email back to hillsider@sundogpress.com
Please type your responses right after the question if you are answering by email. Snail mail users can write under the questions or on a separate piece of paper. Please limit your response to 75 words or less per question.
1) Please tell us a little bit about yourself:
2) Family
3) Educational background
4) Employment background
5) Volunteer background
6) Hobbies
7) Your address and contact information

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?

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?

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

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?

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?

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

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?

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

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

17) Have you or anyone you know, had trouble paying a health care bill or worried about how much health care would cost?
18) Do the city departments work well together? How can inter-department work be done more efficiently?
19) What makes you unique as a candidate for city office?
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Duluth will hold September 11 memorial

The City of Duluth will hold its annual September 11 observation on Tuesday, September 11 at Bayfront Festival Park. The memorial will begin at 12:15 p.m.
Bernadine Martin, a Duluth Salvation Army volunteer who served at Ground Zero, will offer her recollections as part of the event.

The Duluth Police and Fire combined honor guard will take part and area military units will also be invited. Mayor Herb Bergson will serve as Master of Ceremonies.

The public is invited to attend the event which is free of charge.

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Help for school supplies

By Meg Kearns
CHUM Distributive Services
727-2391


Several organizations will be distributing school supplies and backpacks this year to local students in need. Most require an I.D. for each child receiving supplies (social security cards, birth certificate or medical cards).

The list of agencies and resources offered are:

1. Churches United in Ministry (CHUM), Duluth School District #709, Minnesota Power Foundation and the Junior League will be sponsoring a “Back to School Fair” on Tuesday, August 21, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. in the Central Administration Building at 215 North First Avenue East in Duluth. Resources,
information booths, backpack distribution and registration for the school lunch program will be available to Duluth public and charter school students. No pre-registration is required. For more information, call Meg at 727-2391.

2. Union Gospel Mission, 219 ½ East First Street, will distribute school supplies to families currently using their services and families unable to go to the other distribution sites. They are taking advanced sign up on Mondays-Fridays, 10:30 a.m.-11:15 a.m. until August 22. Families will need to show proof of income and identification cards for students. The Union Gospel Mission is also accepting donations of supplies. The distribution will be Tuesday, September 4, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. For more information, contact Kerri at 722-1196.

3. If families miss the above distributions, backpacks will be available at their school’s office after August 30. These backpacks will be supplied to the Duluth School District by Junior League of Duluth.

4. If your teenager needs clothing, the Teen Clothes Closet has clothing for ages 13-21 years. A referral from an agency must be made and an appointment set up to visit the Teen Clothes Closet. Call 393-0851 for more information.

5. Finally, families with annual income of $37,500 or less also have the option to purchase their children’s school supplies and then submit store receipts for the K-12 Education Credit on their 2006 tax return (see Schedule M1ED). This credit also covers tutoring, music lessons and up to $200 for computer hardware and educational software.

School supplies will be distributed to Superior students at the Superior Middle
School on August 22 & 23. Parents must pre-register by August 17 at the
Superior Housing Authority, Bayside Baptist Church, the United Way or @ http://www.superiorchamber.org/

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Lakewalk extension receives Minnesota DNR grant to

The City of Duluth has been awarded a $130,000 grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for Phase 2 of the Lakewalk East Extension. The grant is the largest among seven issued statewide totaling $650,000.

"The Lakewalk extension project is important to us and I thank the Minnesota DNR for helping make it happen," Mayor Herb Bergson. "I thank our staff which worked hard to get the grant and I.m looking forward to a beautiful, expanded Lakewalk as a result. This project will link Lakeside with the Bayfront area in a whole new way and will complement light rail service to the Lakeside area as well."

Phase 2 will construct a trail from 36th to 47th Avenues East within the North Shore Scenic Railroad.s right-of-way. Total project cost is estimated at $900,000.

For additional information on projects and funding, visit the DNR.s website at
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/news/releases/index.html.

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DTCU & Salavation Army helping with school back packs

DTCU in conjunction with the Salvation Army is accepting donations of new back packs and school supplies for local kids in need.

Thru August 31st you may drop off yourdonations at either DTCU location.
Duluth Teachers Creidt UnionDowntown 11 West 2nd St.
722-9242
or Kenwood
1358 West Arrowhead Rd (in Kenwood Shopping Center
724-8218

The Salvation Army will distribute in time for the first day of school.

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Mayor repeats request for special session

Mayor repeats request for special session
Mayor Herb Bergson has renewed his call for a special session of the Minnesota Legislature to
approve a tax bill.
In a letter to Governor Tim Pawlenty sent Monday morning, Mayor Bergson wrote the following:
"Dear Governor Pawlenty:
In good conscience I can’t just walk away without telling you again how important the tax bill is to a lot of cities in Minnesota. The tax bill that would have returned $3.7 million of what we lost in LGA over the last several years is in desperate need. There is no doubt in my mind that we will have to cut police,fire and public works services if there isn’t a tax bill. I am not blaming anyone,we just need you to be a good leader and get the LGA to Minnesota’s cities.

Governor, I have heard horror stories from other mayors about how many police and fire services will be cut if the bill doesn’t come back. Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth and many more cities won’t have the resources to watch over its citizenry without that state aid. Please consider a special session and please give us the tax bill all of our police and fire departments need."



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American Indian Commission to host "Feast and Forum" on Thurs., Aug. 23

The City of Duluth American Indian Commission will host a “Feast and Public Forum” on Thursday, Aug. 23. The event will be held in the auditorium at the Washington Center, 310 North First Ave. W.

The free feast will begin at 5:00 p.m. Following the feast, the commission will host an open and informal public forum, where the commission will listen to all those who wish to share their thoughts, opinions and advice regarding issues and concerns in Duluth’s American Indian community.

In announcing the “Feast and Public Forum” commission co-chairs Joycelyn Dorscher and Michele Gordon, said “The commission wants to hear directly from Duluth’s American Indian residents about what they see as the real issues that are most challenging to their community.”
Commission secretary Donna Ennis echoed the Co-chairs and said the Duluth American Indian Commission values all thoughts and comments relating to or affecting the services, facilities, policies and issues that are of concern to the American Indian Community and hopes that many people from the community come out and let their voices be heard.

This evening is part of the Duluth American Indian Commission’s ongoing efforts to reach out to the community. Part of the commission’s mission is to develop recommendations to the City Council and City Administration to ensure that the American Indian community’s concerns are considered in the City’s decision and policy making process.

Mayor Bergson emphasized the City’s continuing support for the commission’s mission “This is a very important initiative. We are very supportive of this event and all that it means. When you think of all the infrastructure improvements that have taken place over the past 20 years because of our partnership with our Indian friends, you realize how important it is to build relationships and remember to say thank you.”

The Duluth American Indian Commission was established by the City of Duluth by an ordinance passed in 2003. The 11 commissioners are appointed by the Mayor and include cultural and spiritual leaders, activists and other American Indian community advocates.

Eclectic music ranging from progressive rock, rhythm and blues, and reggae, with food by

CAPTIONS: first photo: The delegation gathered with friends from the Magdelena, Venezuela community. Linda and Tom Curran, Bill Hardesty, Joel Kilgour, Martha Minchak, Kathy Nygard (International Team leader), Lyn and John Clark Pegg (Delegation Coordinators).

Second photo: A group of children from the Olaya Herrera displaced community on the Caribbean coast in Cartegena, Colombia.

By Lyn Clark Pegg

A benefit for Witness for Peace - Upper Midwest and ASDIC for Youth will be held on Sunday, Aug. 19 from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Lafayette Square Community Center, 3026 Minnesota Ave.. on Park Point. Enjoy an eclectic mix of music ranging from progressive rock, to rhythm and blues, to reggae. Food by Simply Southern will be available.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students, and no charge for children under 10. Call 218-525-4542 or email pnprovost@charter.net for reservations.

In May a Witness for Peace delegation traveled to Colombia and Venezuela for 12 days to learn about the conditions in those countries and the effects of U.S. economic and military policies.
In Colombia the group visited communities of indigenous people and Afro-Colombians who have been displaced by internal violence. They also met with human rights activists, religious leaders and government and military officials.

In Venezuela the group learned first-hand about the “Bolivarian Social Movement,” touring housing, educational and health care projects recently initiated by President Chavez. They also talked with many community activists and government officials and heard a wide range of opinions both for and against these transformational changes.

Need a summertime gift? Purchase a Patch gift baske

East Hillside Patch is creating gift baskets as a fund-raiser. Purchase one of these gift baskets and East Hillside Patch will receive 100 percent of the profits. Donate to a local non-profit agency while you save time and money. Send an elegantly designed basket to everyone on your list for Graduation, College Survival, Weddings, Babys, New House, Get Well, Thank You, Congrats, Condolence, Anniversary, Birthday, Promotion, the list is endless!
Each basket is filled with exquisite items designed for the utmost enjoyment. Baskets may be filled with, chocolate, snacks, cookies, candy, coffee, tea, pampering bath /spa products, gardening products, or anything you want. Patch is open to changing any basket to suit your needs. Call 218-728-4287

Naomi’s Notes

Americans are able to pull together for health care for everyone

Affordable health care is a problem for many people in America. You would think if a person has a full time job or a professional job, that they would be able to afford health care. But for many people the financial costs of visiting the doctor or the emergency room can be just as devastating as the illness or injury.

A Harvard study found that illness and medical bills caused half of the bankruptcies in 2002. Surprisingly, most of those people had medical insurance at the onset of their illness. Many small businesses can not afford to offer their employees an adequate health insurance policy. Here in Duluth we debate the city retiree health insurance “problem.” Why are we even in a situation where it is problem to give retiree’s the best care available?

We are missing the point when we argue over what to do about the city retiree’s. American’s need to band together and figure out what to do about the cost of health care for everyone.

The costs of health care are crippling America, both in physical and financial terms.
The Hillsider’s front page story is about Patch, a neighborhood program that is helping low and middle income people access health care and putting together a survey to use to apply pressure to politicians to take action to correct the health care problem.

Another organization, the Minnesota Citizens Federation Northeast had made affordable, universal health care the top priority. Their website states, “This means a public insurance system that treats everyone the same; holds down prices; eliminates paperwork waste and duplication of expensive equipment; and takes decision making out of the hands of private insurance companies. Everyone is covered, regardless of his or her work situation, and families pay less than before.”

For more information contact them at: 2110 W. First St. Suite 102, Duluth Minnesota 55806, phone 218-727-0207, or E-mail: admin@citizensfed.org

As a journalist, I have seen Americans pull together to help each other. I have seen people come together during floods, tornados, fires, illnesses and injuries. It is time we, as a nation, pull together to help ourselves before we become crippled by the debt of health care.

The following is my personal reaction to the movie, SiCKO which played in Duluth in July.

A Jaded woman cries: America, what have we become?
I think I have become jaded. I sat there watching the movie screen as the camera focused on a young woman with tears streaming down her face. She was a health insurance representative and she listed reasons why people are denied health insurance. She talked about one couple who sat down with her and filled out all their paperwork. The husband would be late for work because of the time it took them to fill out the paperwork, but the wife didn’t care, because now they had health insurance. The couple was so happy to finally get insurance. But this young health insurance representative knew that two weeks later this couple would receive a letter telling them they were denied
Oh, give me a break, I thought. Is she really crying over that?
Halfway through the movie, we watch the stories of two women who had been dumped off by hospitals because the hospitals could no longer afford to keep them.
A question was asked of America, “What have we become?” I can’t remember the specific words to quote from the movie, but the next scene showed farmers helping each other out during harvest season.
I know those people! I have written stories about these people; stories about farmers banding together to help a neighboring family harvest their crop because the husband had been sick. My mind flashed back to Iowa, 1998. I could smell the soil and freshly cut wheat. I could hear the machinery clanking. I remember the men’s and women’s voices as they took a break for lunch. I remember being teased by a man because I had climbed up on top of a huge stack of bailed hay to get a better photo. I was the reporter with the notebook and the camera, documenting how friendly and neighborly we Americans are. I was the editor who designated a whole page of text and photographs to this story of American will.
“Those are Americans. Those are the people I write stories about. We Americans are proud. We Americans are capable. We are good people.
But back to the question, “What have we become?” The juxtaposition of the focus on the face of the woman who was dumped out in the previous scene to the focus of the farmers helping each other out hit me.
Tears welled up in my eyes. In the previous scene a hidden video camera taped a disoriented woman still in her hospital gown dropped off by taxi.
Later as the movie producer’s camera focused on this woman’s face we got a good look at her. The camera forced us to look at her eyes. She was old; she was wrinkled; she had a scratch or some type of mark on her nose. She had been thrown out like so much trash.
My husband and I have our own personal stories. We sat and we watched stories of middle class Americans with consequences far worse than our own.
Twenty minutes later I looked at my husband’s face. He was sitting with his arms crossed over his chest, weeping. I reached over and grabbed his fingers and held on tight
America, what, have we become?

Best wishes to David Clanaugh

Best wishes to David Clanaugh, “The Hillsider’s” treasurer and fiscal manager. He and his family are moving to Houghton, Mich. so he can pursue his doctorate. We will miss you!

“Over the Top” Dance Studio offers classes for everyone whether experienced or beginner

When her studio is not busy with classes, Juliana Bertelsen uses it to rehearse with professional-level dancers to prepare for upcoming shows. This photo is from the rehearsal of “eMotion.” from left to right: Rod Raymond, Tamara Phillips, Mike Myers, Danny Whitehead, Lark Phillips (up high), Mike Neilson, Juliana Bertelsen, and Steve Skolasinski. (Photo submitted)

Juliana Bertelsen, a professional ballerina, has opened “Over-the-Top” Dance Studio at 132 E. Superior St., Suite 275. She is collaborating with several teachers so customers can choose from a range of styles. Teachers and styles include Vladimir Messing (Hip-Hop), Barb and Dave Hanson (Argentine Tango), Juliana Bertelsen (Salsa, Ballet, and Modern Dance), Sheila Matthews (Belly Dance), Lark Phillips (Tap), Rob Wittig (Tai Chi), Cynthia Tope (creative dance for youngsters), and Amber Olson (Lyrical Jazz).

Bertelsen said she wants to provide a space for everyone; adult beginners, toddlers or professionals to have fun and learn. “People say they are scared of dance or can’t dance, or sometimes intimidated to try,” Bertelsen said. “Often people try to learn a style that doesn’t fit their personality.”

She told how her mother tried to get her brother to dance a style that didn’t fit his personality, “When I was a kid, my mom, also a former ballerina, tried to make my brother take ballet. My brother was not a ballet dancer. No bribe would get him to ballet class, and he’d play hooky whenever possible. My mom had to get over it. Then my brother discovered Tap. He loved going to tap class!! Ten years later found him still busting out in spectacular moving rhythm of his own volition. He had discovered what people who dance know, that dance is freedom.

Classes are $7.00 per lesson. Visitors are welcome or phone 218-591-0748 for more information.