The Evansville Observer Archive: The unofficial history of Evansville, Wisconsin from 2005-2013: Thousands of Video and Audio and Articles; Free: To Search scroll to the Search this Blog line and enter name of person, topic, or issue. Then scroll up to see all articles. Or use Google Search by topic. Enjoy.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Gazette; Recession delivers Double Blow to many charities---
Click on the post for the full story. Consider this story background on the current state of gift giving or survival of non-profit organizations.
Gazette; Evansville Schools Enrollment Drop
Gina Duwe has the story. Click on the post.
Some years ago, when building permits plunged, that was the first point of data that foretold of the coming days.
When will enrollment begin to rise again? When will the homes for sale on every block be sold? When will young couples move to town looking and seeing affordable housing?
When will there be jobs to apply for that are real?
Stay tuned.
You make the call.
Some years ago, when building permits plunged, that was the first point of data that foretold of the coming days.
When will enrollment begin to rise again? When will the homes for sale on every block be sold? When will young couples move to town looking and seeing affordable housing?
When will there be jobs to apply for that are real?
Stay tuned.
You make the call.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Sunday, September 27, 2009
WSJ: Fond du Lac gets 1.2 million from FEMA for flood damage
This will cover removing 14 damaged homes that were built in the flood plain. Click on the post for all the details.
NPR: Digital Free For All? For how long
How long will "FREE" be the model? Click on the post for an interesting podcast from NPR.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Grand Opening of Allen Creek Gallery---Nov 7th
The Allen Creek Gallery Grand Opening is a must see event---It will be the new home of Mathias James Pottery.
Click on the post to see the website.
Click on the post to see the website.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Mailbag: Rep. Brett Davis Writes; On Line Office: Facebook; Twitter
80th Assembly District Update - September 25, 2009
Davis Announces Launch of Online Office
MADISON... State Representative Brett Davis (R-Oregon) unveiled today the launch of a new website for the 80th District. The 80th District online office will provide area residents with information and updates that are instantly available.
"It has always been my goal to have the office of the 80th Assembly District as open and accessible as possible," said Davis. "The new online office will provide information and resources on state government to anyone with access to the internet."
Specifically, the virtual office consists of a newly created website located at www.brettdavis.us. This new website contains contact information, updates on legislative actions, and useful links. In addition, the website contains links to the popular social networking sites facebook and twitter.
"By utilizing today's technology, I hope to improve the way I keep residents of the 80th District informed of what is happening in their state government," Davis stated. "The new online office will also provide another avenue to contact me with any questions or concerns constituents may have 24 hours a day, 365 days a year."
Davis stated that after the spring budget session, his office has been planning and working on the project during the summer legislative recess. He plans on updating information on a regular basis.
The actual links for the three components of the online office are:
http://www.brettdavis.us
http://twitter.com/repbrettdavis
http://www.facebook.com/rep.davis
Davis Announces Launch of Online Office
MADISON... State Representative Brett Davis (R-Oregon) unveiled today the launch of a new website for the 80th District. The 80th District online office will provide area residents with information and updates that are instantly available.
"It has always been my goal to have the office of the 80th Assembly District as open and accessible as possible," said Davis. "The new online office will provide information and resources on state government to anyone with access to the internet."
Specifically, the virtual office consists of a newly created website located at www.brettdavis.us. This new website contains contact information, updates on legislative actions, and useful links. In addition, the website contains links to the popular social networking sites facebook and twitter.
"By utilizing today's technology, I hope to improve the way I keep residents of the 80th District informed of what is happening in their state government," Davis stated. "The new online office will also provide another avenue to contact me with any questions or concerns constituents may have 24 hours a day, 365 days a year."
Davis stated that after the spring budget session, his office has been planning and working on the project during the summer legislative recess. He plans on updating information on a regular basis.
The actual links for the three components of the online office are:
http://www.brettdavis.us
http://twitter.com/repbrettdavis
http://www.facebook.com/rep.davis
Public Meeting Notice: October 12, 2009: Sanitary Sewer
Public Meeting Notice
Sanitary Sewer Use Ordinance/User Charge System
To Be Discussed October 12, 2009
City Of Evansville
Rock County, Wisconsin
With the construction of the new wastewater treatment facility, the City is planning to update the existing Sanitary Sewer Use Ordinance and User Charge System. These updates will be discussed at the City Council meeting on Monday, October 12, 2009 by the City Engineer, Foth Infrastructure & Environment, LLC.
The meeting will be held at the City of Evansville City Hall located at 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI at 6:30 p.m. local time. There will be a short presentation by the City Engineer followed by a question and answer session. Personnel from Foth Infrastructure & Environment, LLC will be available before and after the presentation to answer questions and receive written or verbal comments.
The new wastewater treatment facility began construction August 31, 2009 and is projected to be completed by December 30, 2010. Funding for the $5.79 million construction cost will be with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Clean Water Fund and include a low-interest loan and a
non-repayable loan amount from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Persons unable to attend the meeting can make their comments known by contacting Dave Sauer, City Engineer, at Foth Infrastructure & Environment, LLC, 1402 Pankratz Street, Suite 300, Madison, WI 53704, (800) 209-2099 (ext. 5942) or (608) 242-5941.
Sanitary Sewer Use Ordinance/User Charge System
To Be Discussed October 12, 2009
City Of Evansville
Rock County, Wisconsin
With the construction of the new wastewater treatment facility, the City is planning to update the existing Sanitary Sewer Use Ordinance and User Charge System. These updates will be discussed at the City Council meeting on Monday, October 12, 2009 by the City Engineer, Foth Infrastructure & Environment, LLC.
The meeting will be held at the City of Evansville City Hall located at 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI at 6:30 p.m. local time. There will be a short presentation by the City Engineer followed by a question and answer session. Personnel from Foth Infrastructure & Environment, LLC will be available before and after the presentation to answer questions and receive written or verbal comments.
The new wastewater treatment facility began construction August 31, 2009 and is projected to be completed by December 30, 2010. Funding for the $5.79 million construction cost will be with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Clean Water Fund and include a low-interest loan and a
non-repayable loan amount from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Persons unable to attend the meeting can make their comments known by contacting Dave Sauer, City Engineer, at Foth Infrastructure & Environment, LLC, 1402 Pankratz Street, Suite 300, Madison, WI 53704, (800) 209-2099 (ext. 5942) or (608) 242-5941.
Get your Raffle Ticket Now for the Trek Bike---
Once again Evansville Community Partnership is raffling off a Trek Lime bicycle as part of the Harvest Windmill Festival. Tickets are available at the ECP/ Chamber of Commerce office at 8 W Main St . Cost is $2 each or 3 tickets for $5.
The Trek Lime bike is a $550 value. It uses technology to make your ride easier. A generator in the front hub powers a three speed automatic transmission.
Stop by soon to get your tickets. Drawing is at 12:30 PM on Sunday October 4. You need not be present to win.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Evansville School District to purchase home on 2nd Street
Click on the post for the agenda item on October 12, 2009.
Jazz Corner: Mark the calendar for Oct 4th:
MATC Community Jazz Band
Type: Music/Arts - Concert
Network: Global
Date: Sunday, October 4, 2009
Time: 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Location: Mitby Theater
Street: 3550 Anderson Street
City/Town: Madison, WI
Yahoo
Pioneer Press: Burnsville officials sip bottled water--tell residents well water stinks but is ok for them
Click on the post for the story.
White House; Lobbyists on Agency Boards and Commissions
Click on the post. This matter is evident nationally and locally.
StarTrib: St. Paul City Council approves 3.3 million for homelesss initiative
Click on the post for the latest.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
DeMarb Law Office Opens in Evansville: 25 W Main: 882-0943
FOR IMMEDAITE RELEASE
September 23, 2009
Contact: Rebecca R. DeMarb
DeMarb Law Office, LLC
rebecca@demarblaw.com
(608) 882-0943
RE: Rebecca R. DeMarb Announces the Formation of DeMarb Law Office, LLC
Rebecca R. DeMarb announces the formation of DeMarb Law Office, LLC. DeMarb is an attorney practicing in Evansville, Wisconsin, who focuses her practice on all aspects of debtor-creditor law, including bankruptcy. She represents both creditors and debtors including banks, other lenders, and individuals and businesses facing financial trouble. In addition, she serves as a court-appointed receiver.
“It is rewarding to help both debtors and creditors negotiate this economy,” says DeMarb. “Although the economy is difficult and uncertain right now, I am happy to be able to offer people some guidance and relief.” DeMarb offers reduced-rate consultations for individuals and businesses with financial questions. “For both debtors and creditors, it is crucial to seek legal counsel as early as possible to preserve all of their options,” says DeMarb.
DeMarb works with Carol J. Mays, a paralegal, to make sure her clients’ needs are met in a timely and compassionate manner. They are adding a third staff person in the near future. “All of us are committed to answering clients’ questions and giving them all of the information they need to make decisions regarding their business and their personal finances,” says Mays.
In 2008, DeMarb was named as a top lawyer in bankruptcy by Super Lawyers magazine. She is certified in business bankruptcy by the American Board of Certification. DeMarb is a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin and several bars for federal courts. DeMarb just completed updating Chapter 51 (Bankruptcy) of the Wisconsin Judicial Benchbook, Volume II: Civil, 3rd Edition, which will be published early in November of 2009. In Evansville, she serves on the board of the Evansville Community Partnership and on the Economic Development Committee for the City of Evansville. DeMarb has three children, ages 16, 6 and 2, and has made her home in Evansville since the spring of 2004.
DeMarb has been an attorney since 1997 and has worked in debtor-creditor law since very early in her legal career. DeMarb has practiced in Madison, Chicago and, since 2007, in Evansville. Mays and DeMarb have worked together for the better part of the last twelve years, most recently with Walter E. Shannon at Shannon & DeMarb, LLC. DeMarb established DeMarb Law Office, LLC, in July, currently located in the lower level of the Grange Building, 25 W. Main Street in Evansville.
September 23, 2009
Contact: Rebecca R. DeMarb
DeMarb Law Office, LLC
rebecca@demarblaw.com
(608) 882-0943
RE: Rebecca R. DeMarb Announces the Formation of DeMarb Law Office, LLC
Rebecca R. DeMarb announces the formation of DeMarb Law Office, LLC. DeMarb is an attorney practicing in Evansville, Wisconsin, who focuses her practice on all aspects of debtor-creditor law, including bankruptcy. She represents both creditors and debtors including banks, other lenders, and individuals and businesses facing financial trouble. In addition, she serves as a court-appointed receiver.
“It is rewarding to help both debtors and creditors negotiate this economy,” says DeMarb. “Although the economy is difficult and uncertain right now, I am happy to be able to offer people some guidance and relief.” DeMarb offers reduced-rate consultations for individuals and businesses with financial questions. “For both debtors and creditors, it is crucial to seek legal counsel as early as possible to preserve all of their options,” says DeMarb.
DeMarb works with Carol J. Mays, a paralegal, to make sure her clients’ needs are met in a timely and compassionate manner. They are adding a third staff person in the near future. “All of us are committed to answering clients’ questions and giving them all of the information they need to make decisions regarding their business and their personal finances,” says Mays.
In 2008, DeMarb was named as a top lawyer in bankruptcy by Super Lawyers magazine. She is certified in business bankruptcy by the American Board of Certification. DeMarb is a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin and several bars for federal courts. DeMarb just completed updating Chapter 51 (Bankruptcy) of the Wisconsin Judicial Benchbook, Volume II: Civil, 3rd Edition, which will be published early in November of 2009. In Evansville, she serves on the board of the Evansville Community Partnership and on the Economic Development Committee for the City of Evansville. DeMarb has three children, ages 16, 6 and 2, and has made her home in Evansville since the spring of 2004.
DeMarb has been an attorney since 1997 and has worked in debtor-creditor law since very early in her legal career. DeMarb has practiced in Madison, Chicago and, since 2007, in Evansville. Mays and DeMarb have worked together for the better part of the last twelve years, most recently with Walter E. Shannon at Shannon & DeMarb, LLC. DeMarb established DeMarb Law Office, LLC, in July, currently located in the lower level of the Grange Building, 25 W. Main Street in Evansville.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Historical: Public Works: 2-26-2008: New Senior Center Site Plan
(Ed.note: I have republished this audio for historical reference.)
Evansville City Engineer Dave Sauer reviews the submitted site plan; Notes areas of concern; Has requested resubmission.
MP3 File
Evansville City Engineer Dave Sauer reviews the submitted site plan; Notes areas of concern; Has requested resubmission.
MP3 File
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Maine Medical Association calls for wind turbine siting permitting changes
Click on the post for the latest.
Swine Flu----Mexico---Will Churches go Virtual?
The Swine Flu epidemic might require US churches to embrace technology to cope. Stay tuned to The Evansville Observer where you can hear local sermons. These sermons may be expanded to meet growing need.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Classic Video: Ryan McNeal: Otro Mas 2007
Video: Ryan McNeal: Otro Mas: Award Winning video produced by the only intern ever to serve at The Evansville Observer, and do the teaching....
Download File
Download File
Video: Outtakes: 2007: School Board
Video: Fun with Outtakes: School Board; One of the first videos done by Ryan McNeal---needed a little adjustment to correct the name. A flashback to earlier times.
Download File
Download File
How the Budget got balanced?
(Ed.note; This is a portion of the recent Common Council budget meeting minutes:
6. City Administrator. Wietecha said that the general fund deficit had been reduced from $132,000 to $33,000 with the budget requests. This was done through the payment schedule for the Lake Leota bonds, reduction in levy-supported capital expenditures, re-allocation of staff expenses from the general fund to the stormwater utility, reduction in planning and engineering expenses which had been high since work on the Smart Growth Plan several years ago, and various lesser expenditure cuts. Some of these actions are long-term, structural solutions; while, others are only one-time fixes to help the immediate budget.
6. City Administrator. Wietecha said that the general fund deficit had been reduced from $132,000 to $33,000 with the budget requests. This was done through the payment schedule for the Lake Leota bonds, reduction in levy-supported capital expenditures, re-allocation of staff expenses from the general fund to the stormwater utility, reduction in planning and engineering expenses which had been high since work on the Smart Growth Plan several years ago, and various lesser expenditure cuts. Some of these actions are long-term, structural solutions; while, others are only one-time fixes to help the immediate budget.
Mark Your Calendars: Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree is coming
The 2009 Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree is Approaching Fast
Mark your calendar now and plan to attend the Evansville K-5 PTO’s Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree on Saturday, October 24th from 6-8 p.m. in the Grove Campus Field House. This year’s carnival will be a fun family event featuring the ever-popular Raffle, the return of carnival games, bounce houses, face painting, the Cobweb Café, a pumpkin decorating contest and a classroom door decorating contest.
The Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree is the PTO’s largest fund-raiser, proceeds of which support Evansville’s Elementary and Intermediate schools. In the past, we have purchased classroom and playground equipment and helped to fund the After School Club. These funds also support other PTO events, including the Kindergarten play date, the Book Swap and the He and Me Breakfast.
Parents and community members, we need your help to ensure the success of Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree ’09. Over 120 dedicated volunteers are needed to run this event. Middle School and High School students can earn valuable Community Service credit while reliving those cherished fall carnival memories. Maybe Grandma and Grandpa want to help out! If you are able to volunteer your time or baking skills, please contact Brenda Roth (phone 757-9339;e-mail mazie@litewire.net). Parents of K-5 students can mark and return the bright orange volunteer form sent home with your children last week.
The PTO offers three more opportunities for you and your business to support our children and teachers. We need Event Sponsors, Game Sponsors and Raffle donations to maximize the Raffle success. Event sponsors will be recognized in advertisements and communications publicizing the event. Game sponsors and raffle donations will be recognized in media the night of the event. Those wishing to sponsor the Event or a Game, and those with Raffle donations, please contact Jackie Liebel (phone 882-6383;e-mail jacquelineliebel@hotmail.com).
More detailed information about the Raffle and the pumpkin decorating contest will be sent home with your elementary and intermediate school child(ren) in the coming weeks.
Mark your calendar now and plan to attend the Evansville K-5 PTO’s Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree on Saturday, October 24th from 6-8 p.m. in the Grove Campus Field House. This year’s carnival will be a fun family event featuring the ever-popular Raffle, the return of carnival games, bounce houses, face painting, the Cobweb Café, a pumpkin decorating contest and a classroom door decorating contest.
The Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree is the PTO’s largest fund-raiser, proceeds of which support Evansville’s Elementary and Intermediate schools. In the past, we have purchased classroom and playground equipment and helped to fund the After School Club. These funds also support other PTO events, including the Kindergarten play date, the Book Swap and the He and Me Breakfast.
Parents and community members, we need your help to ensure the success of Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree ’09. Over 120 dedicated volunteers are needed to run this event. Middle School and High School students can earn valuable Community Service credit while reliving those cherished fall carnival memories. Maybe Grandma and Grandpa want to help out! If you are able to volunteer your time or baking skills, please contact Brenda Roth (phone 757-9339;e-mail mazie@litewire.net). Parents of K-5 students can mark and return the bright orange volunteer form sent home with your children last week.
The PTO offers three more opportunities for you and your business to support our children and teachers. We need Event Sponsors, Game Sponsors and Raffle donations to maximize the Raffle success. Event sponsors will be recognized in advertisements and communications publicizing the event. Game sponsors and raffle donations will be recognized in media the night of the event. Those wishing to sponsor the Event or a Game, and those with Raffle donations, please contact Jackie Liebel (phone 882-6383;e-mail jacquelineliebel@hotmail.com).
More detailed information about the Raffle and the pumpkin decorating contest will be sent home with your elementary and intermediate school child(ren) in the coming weeks.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Audio; Evansville Budget Hearings: Library: Sept 16, 2009
Audio: Evansville budget Hearings: Library; September 16, 2009
MP3 File
In five years of attending budget hearings in Evansville, it has been rare...I can count them on one hand, the number of citizens that have even attended the meetings, much less spoke.
At the 15 minute mark of this audio you can hear Susan Kruser speak as to the current state of the Library in Evansville. It is on the rocks.
The library needs computers to meet the 21st century and the ones they have are about eight years old and require expensive maintenance. Seems pretty simple. Just buy new. Computers are cheap. It does require money the Library does not have and the city does not have the will or funding in the budget to help. Yes for creek walls. No for computers.
A budget in its essence states the priorities of a community. It is not a joke.
The budget session recently spoke to a community that has been harmed by loss of commerical industry and jobs. It has many departments that have been frugal but face possible layoff.
I hope our citizens listen to these hearings on The Observer and can appreciate what our community is facing.
MP3 File
In five years of attending budget hearings in Evansville, it has been rare...I can count them on one hand, the number of citizens that have even attended the meetings, much less spoke.
At the 15 minute mark of this audio you can hear Susan Kruser speak as to the current state of the Library in Evansville. It is on the rocks.
The library needs computers to meet the 21st century and the ones they have are about eight years old and require expensive maintenance. Seems pretty simple. Just buy new. Computers are cheap. It does require money the Library does not have and the city does not have the will or funding in the budget to help. Yes for creek walls. No for computers.
A budget in its essence states the priorities of a community. It is not a joke.
The budget session recently spoke to a community that has been harmed by loss of commerical industry and jobs. It has many departments that have been frugal but face possible layoff.
I hope our citizens listen to these hearings on The Observer and can appreciate what our community is facing.
Gazette; St. Mary's Janesville Hospital coming--500 jobs
Check it out. The Conditional Use permit is pending. Stay tuned.
Mailbag; Brooks Writes: Harvest Windmill Festival Volunteers Needed
Hello
The Harvest Windmill Festival is fast approaching. The weather is perfect to get together to celebrate all that Evansville has to offer in the Fall.
But we can’t do it without your help. Please reply to this email to volunteer for the following:
1) Thursday afternoon October 1, we need help to hang lights and make sure the Festival Grounds are set up. Anytime after midafternoon is good.
2) Raffle ticket sellers are needed for shift during the following hours
Friday October 2 6pm-Midnight
Saturday October 3 Noon-Midnight
Sunday October 4 10am-Noon
3) 2 people are needed to help with the Wine and Cheese event Saturday from 3-6
4) We also need help with clean-up on Saturday, Sunday and Monday morning.
I have also attached a pdf file showing all of the beautiful windmills that will be available for auction on Sunday afternoon.
Thank you in advance
Jim Brooks
The Harvest Windmill Festival is fast approaching. The weather is perfect to get together to celebrate all that Evansville has to offer in the Fall.
But we can’t do it without your help. Please reply to this email to volunteer for the following:
1) Thursday afternoon October 1, we need help to hang lights and make sure the Festival Grounds are set up. Anytime after midafternoon is good.
2) Raffle ticket sellers are needed for shift during the following hours
Friday October 2 6pm-Midnight
Saturday October 3 Noon-Midnight
Sunday October 4 10am-Noon
3) 2 people are needed to help with the Wine and Cheese event Saturday from 3-6
4) We also need help with clean-up on Saturday, Sunday and Monday morning.
I have also attached a pdf file showing all of the beautiful windmills that will be available for auction on Sunday afternoon.
Thank you in advance
Jim Brooks
Evasnville City Administrator recommends hiring freeze; other cost saving items
Click on the post for the minutes from the recent meeting on Wednesday night. These minutes are not official till approved by the Council.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Community Center: Dec 2007--Floodplain?
Question: Is the new Evansville Community Center Site in the flood Plain? Click for the answer.
MP3 File
MP3 File
For a Sure Cell Phone Charge--wear your solar panel vest
Click on the post for all those of you that may be biking to Madison.
Video: Creek Walls:
Video: Creek Walls; Carryover funds; Undesignated funds, but...kinda like earmarked funds....but
Download File
Students of Accounting 10001 might be confused; here is the clarification. Funds collected by departments during the year but unused revert back to the city treasury, except that some funds are more designated than others. EMS funds over 350,000 go to the treasury, and Library funds for computers must be rejected while funds of surplus from DNR projects that were..well...almost designated...need to be spent on creek walls.
Download File
Students of Accounting 10001 might be confused; here is the clarification. Funds collected by departments during the year but unused revert back to the city treasury, except that some funds are more designated than others. EMS funds over 350,000 go to the treasury, and Library funds for computers must be rejected while funds of surplus from DNR projects that were..well...almost designated...need to be spent on creek walls.
Gazette; Rep. Brett Davis to run for Lt. Governor?
Click on the post for the story in the Janesville Gazette.
WSJ: McGovern: "Medicare for All"
Click on the post for the solution to the healthcare crisis. Enjoy.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Video: 1 of 2; Tour: Community Center
Video: Case Study; Community Center: Minnetonka, Mn; 2009: Tour of City Hall, Community Center, Craft Rooms, Meeting Rooms, Combination dining, exercise, kitchen area.
Download File
Download File
RockNetRoots: Clean Wisconsin intervened to aid Janesville Conservation Water Rate
Click on the post for the latest. Does Evansville need Clean Wisconsin to intervene on our behalf?
Observer News now on your cellphone---
Readers of the Evansville Observer can access stories via Twitter and then become a "follower"; they will then see the stories appear on their cell phone, and can access the full story...everything from national stories to the local municipal court report--nothing like browsing those on the beach worldwide....Stay tuned. This is the Evansville Observer...we set the standard for news and micronews in Southern Wisconsin. Click on the post to access Twitter.
CapTimes: College on the cusp of radical change
Click on the post for the latest. College and newspapers are headed for an abrupt change.
Mailbag; Job Seekers Alert: Job Search/ Resume Class at Eager Lib TODAY--
Eager Free Public Library will hold a job search/resume writing class on Wednesday, September 16th, from 5-7 p.m. in the Library meeting room. Laptops will be provided to six students, but if you have your own laptop, bring it. Sheryl Oberle, the Arrowhead Library System's computer trainer who holds many free computer tutoring sessions at the Library, will conduct the class and show participants how to locate jobs information, how to apply for jobs online, and how to create an effective resume. Call 882-2260 to reserve a place in this class.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Minnesota: School Beat: Eden Prairie Teachers vote to freeze wages
Click on the post for the latest.
Evansville Special Common Council Budget Meeting--Wednesday Night, 6:30PM
Click on the post for the agenda.
Coping with Grief: Dealing with Loss Workshop: Wednesday night: 7PM
Coping with Grief
Dealing with Loss
Workshop.
If your life is off balance with
grief, please come.
Becky Gonzales of
Earthly Element is offering this
workshop free to the public.
Eager Economy Building, Lower Level
Wednesday, September 16th,
7:00 to 8:00 PM
Dealing with Loss
Workshop.
If your life is off balance with
grief, please come.
Becky Gonzales of
Earthly Element is offering this
workshop free to the public.
Eager Economy Building, Lower Level
Wednesday, September 16th,
7:00 to 8:00 PM
Monday, September 14, 2009
Video; "Refuse to Bruise" Billboards:
Video: Julie Hermanson of AWARE speaks of the billboards on Hwy 14 highlighting the "Refuse to Bruise" campaign.
Download File
Download File
Video: Julie Hermanson of Aware Speaks
Video; Julie Hermanson of Aware speaks on the Backpacker program, about the United Way Campaign and how you can help
Download File
Download File
Rolling Stone Mag: Goldman Sachs---the Great American Bubble Machine
Click on the post for one view.
StarTribune; The Risky Rebound for Banks
What happened to regulation of the Hedge funds? What happened to the curbing of derivatives? Where is the transparency? Click on the post for the latest.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
NYT: Human Rights Abuses in Philippines Highlighted
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/13/world/asia/13iht-phils.html?_r=2
Abuse Charges Persist in Philippines' Fight Against Communists
By CARLOS H. CONDE
Published: August 12, 2009
MANILA — Melissa Roxas, a 31-year-old artist and writer from Los Angeles, traveled to the Philippines in 2007 to learn more about the country of her birth.
Ms. Roxas moved to the United States when she was 9 years old, and finding out more about the Philippines had been an obsession for her. “I came to the Philippines to learn more about my roots and heritage,” she told the human rights committee of the Philippine Congress last month.
Soon after arriving, she embarked on an “immersion program” with a left-leaning nongovernmental organization, the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (New Patriotic Alliance), which sent her to impoverished communities in the provinces north of Manila to work on health and sanitation programs. One afternoon in late May, while watching television in a farmer’s home in a village in Tarlac Province, Ms. Roxas and two of her companions were abducted by armed and hooded men who dragged them into a van without a license plate.
For six days, Ms. Roxas says, she was interrogated, drugged, tortured and smothered to near death, with her interrogators trying to force her to admit she was a communist guerrilla. When the interrogators learned that she was an American citizen, she told the committee, the torture lessened. Although she continued to be tortured, her citizenship may have saved Ms. Roxas from death. Her captors later dropped her off at a relative’s house in the capital.
Ms. Roxas’s case was unusual in that she was among the few people who have been freed after being abducted and tortured. It also became highly publicized after it emerged that Ms. Roxas was a U.S. citizen and her lawyers said she would file a suit against the Philippine government in a U.S. court for unlawful kidnapping and assault.
But her case
also highlighted something that international and local human rights groups say is all too common in the Philippines: violations of human rights by the military in the name of battling a communist insurgency.
Allegations of human rights violations have hounded the administration of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ever since she came to power in 2001.
According to Karapatan, the largest human rights group in the Philippines, more than 1,000 activists, peasants and civilians have died and thousands more have been tortured or abducted since 2001. Those allegations have been echoed by groups like Human Rights Watch, based in New York, which has accused the government of being engaged in a “dirty war” against leftists.
The United Nations Human Rights Council, among other institutions, investigated several of the cases and found the Philippine military primarily responsible for the actions, attributing them to a counterinsurgency policy called Oplan Bantay Laya, or Operation Freedom Watch, that does not distinguish armed communist combatants from activists who are out in the open.
The United Nations says there has been an improvement in recent years — with a 70 percent decline in the number of killings since February 2007 — partly the result of human rights groups publicizing the problem. But in the first half of this year, 36 activists were killed, according to the Philippine Human Rights Reporting Project, a program of the Institute for War and Peace Reporting.
The military has disputed Ms. Roxas’s account, saying that she fabricated the story of her abduction, despite initial findings by the Commission on Human Rights, an independent constitutional body, that her account was credible. Later, the military went on a counteroffensive, accusing Ms. Roxas of being a member of the New People’s Army, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines that has been waging a 40-year Maoist insurgency, the longest in Asia. Ms. Roxas has denied being a member of the group.
Leila de Lima, the chairwoman of the Commission on Human Rights, said at a hearing on the case that “freedom from torture is a nonderogable right” — that even if Ms. Roxas were a communist guerrilla, she should not have been tortured. “Even prisoners of war should not be tortured,” Ms. de Lima said.
Apart from the torture and killing linked to the communist insurgency, the Philippines has also come under fire for other human rights violations.
In May, the United Nations Committee Against Torture said that it was “deeply concerned about the numerous, ongoing, credible and consistent allegations, corroborated by a number of Filipino and international sources, of routine and widespread use of torture and ill-treatment of suspects in police custody.” The Philippine government told the U.N. committee that “torture or ill-treatment on suspects or detainees is not tolerated or condoned by the Philippine National Police.”
At the same time, the military and its backers have intensified a campaign against groups that the military says are sympathetic to the communists.
Jovito Palparan, a former general who is now a congressman, accused the Commission on Human Rights — whose chairman is appointed by the president and which has been accused by human rights groups in the past of not having been active enough in investigating violations — of backing the leftists.
In remote villages and in the slums of Manila, the military has embarked on a campaign to discredit leftist groups, often gathering residents in communities for viewings of videos where the groups are depicted as communists. The military has also gone into schools to warn students about radical groups out to recruit for the Communist Party.
Lt. Col. Danilo Lucero, the chief of the army’s Civil Military Operations, said in an interview that the military was concentrating on groups that it believed supported the armed New People’s Army.
“They have perfected the art of deception,” Colonel Lucero said. “They have their own political group that basically connects with their armed group.”
But Marie Hilao-Enriquez, secretary general of Karapatan, said the counterinsurgency strategy was “disastrous for human rights.”
“What the military does — labeling every dissenter as a communist — is dangerous,” Ms. Enriquez said. “They are in effect justifying the harassment, torture, abduction and even murder of Filipinos whose only crime was to speak out against the problems of society.”
Abuse Charges Persist in Philippines' Fight Against Communists
By CARLOS H. CONDE
Published: August 12, 2009
MANILA — Melissa Roxas, a 31-year-old artist and writer from Los Angeles, traveled to the Philippines in 2007 to learn more about the country of her birth.
Ms. Roxas moved to the United States when she was 9 years old, and finding out more about the Philippines had been an obsession for her. “I came to the Philippines to learn more about my roots and heritage,” she told the human rights committee of the Philippine Congress last month.
Soon after arriving, she embarked on an “immersion program” with a left-leaning nongovernmental organization, the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (New Patriotic Alliance), which sent her to impoverished communities in the provinces north of Manila to work on health and sanitation programs. One afternoon in late May, while watching television in a farmer’s home in a village in Tarlac Province, Ms. Roxas and two of her companions were abducted by armed and hooded men who dragged them into a van without a license plate.
For six days, Ms. Roxas says, she was interrogated, drugged, tortured and smothered to near death, with her interrogators trying to force her to admit she was a communist guerrilla. When the interrogators learned that she was an American citizen, she told the committee, the torture lessened. Although she continued to be tortured, her citizenship may have saved Ms. Roxas from death. Her captors later dropped her off at a relative’s house in the capital.
Ms. Roxas’s case was unusual in that she was among the few people who have been freed after being abducted and tortured. It also became highly publicized after it emerged that Ms. Roxas was a U.S. citizen and her lawyers said she would file a suit against the Philippine government in a U.S. court for unlawful kidnapping and assault.
But her case
also highlighted something that international and local human rights groups say is all too common in the Philippines: violations of human rights by the military in the name of battling a communist insurgency.
Allegations of human rights violations have hounded the administration of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ever since she came to power in 2001.
According to Karapatan, the largest human rights group in the Philippines, more than 1,000 activists, peasants and civilians have died and thousands more have been tortured or abducted since 2001. Those allegations have been echoed by groups like Human Rights Watch, based in New York, which has accused the government of being engaged in a “dirty war” against leftists.
The United Nations Human Rights Council, among other institutions, investigated several of the cases and found the Philippine military primarily responsible for the actions, attributing them to a counterinsurgency policy called Oplan Bantay Laya, or Operation Freedom Watch, that does not distinguish armed communist combatants from activists who are out in the open.
The United Nations says there has been an improvement in recent years — with a 70 percent decline in the number of killings since February 2007 — partly the result of human rights groups publicizing the problem. But in the first half of this year, 36 activists were killed, according to the Philippine Human Rights Reporting Project, a program of the Institute for War and Peace Reporting.
The military has disputed Ms. Roxas’s account, saying that she fabricated the story of her abduction, despite initial findings by the Commission on Human Rights, an independent constitutional body, that her account was credible. Later, the military went on a counteroffensive, accusing Ms. Roxas of being a member of the New People’s Army, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines that has been waging a 40-year Maoist insurgency, the longest in Asia. Ms. Roxas has denied being a member of the group.
Leila de Lima, the chairwoman of the Commission on Human Rights, said at a hearing on the case that “freedom from torture is a nonderogable right” — that even if Ms. Roxas were a communist guerrilla, she should not have been tortured. “Even prisoners of war should not be tortured,” Ms. de Lima said.
Apart from the torture and killing linked to the communist insurgency, the Philippines has also come under fire for other human rights violations.
In May, the United Nations Committee Against Torture said that it was “deeply concerned about the numerous, ongoing, credible and consistent allegations, corroborated by a number of Filipino and international sources, of routine and widespread use of torture and ill-treatment of suspects in police custody.” The Philippine government told the U.N. committee that “torture or ill-treatment on suspects or detainees is not tolerated or condoned by the Philippine National Police.”
At the same time, the military and its backers have intensified a campaign against groups that the military says are sympathetic to the communists.
Jovito Palparan, a former general who is now a congressman, accused the Commission on Human Rights — whose chairman is appointed by the president and which has been accused by human rights groups in the past of not having been active enough in investigating violations — of backing the leftists.
In remote villages and in the slums of Manila, the military has embarked on a campaign to discredit leftist groups, often gathering residents in communities for viewings of videos where the groups are depicted as communists. The military has also gone into schools to warn students about radical groups out to recruit for the Communist Party.
Lt. Col. Danilo Lucero, the chief of the army’s Civil Military Operations, said in an interview that the military was concentrating on groups that it believed supported the armed New People’s Army.
“They have perfected the art of deception,” Colonel Lucero said. “They have their own political group that basically connects with their armed group.”
But Marie Hilao-Enriquez, secretary general of Karapatan, said the counterinsurgency strategy was “disastrous for human rights.”
“What the military does — labeling every dissenter as a communist — is dangerous,” Ms. Enriquez said. “They are in effect justifying the harassment, torture, abduction and even murder of Filipinos whose only crime was to speak out against the problems of society.”
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Gazette; Municipal Debt Rises-----
Click on the post for the article in the Janesville Gazette. Evansville is at the top of the pack.
Isthmus Magazaine features Lynda Barry----"The War Over Wind"
Click on the post for an excellent article on Lynda Barry, creator of Better Plan Rock County Blog, Wind activist, and cartoonist. Enjoy.
Evansville School Board Meets Monday--Swine Flu; Site Enhancement of Middle School School on Agenda
Click on the post for the latest.
One of the findings of the Plunkett Raysich Report was that the sites of the Middle school and the Intermediate school are inadequate and need to be enhanced to be more effective. The board move to add one parcel is the beginning of addressing this. In this economic environment, there will be other opportunities to benefit homeowners and the school district both in a mutually beneficial fashion. Stay tuned.
One of the findings of the Plunkett Raysich Report was that the sites of the Middle school and the Intermediate school are inadequate and need to be enhanced to be more effective. The board move to add one parcel is the beginning of addressing this. In this economic environment, there will be other opportunities to benefit homeowners and the school district both in a mutually beneficial fashion. Stay tuned.
Mailbag; Rooney Writes:
Just wanted to drop a quick note and let you all know that this year I will not be exhibiting with the 14 South Artists as I have in the past. I will
however have 4 new paper collage pieces on display in the front windows of the Shannon Law Offices, LLC on Main street Fri., Sat., and Sun.
Sept. 25th-27th in conjunction w/ the other artists and 14 South open studios. Please drive or walk by and enjoy.
Gazette; Janesville Water Utility files for Conservation Rate Proposal
Click on the post for the latest. Compare and contrast with the rate filing for Evansville Water Utility.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Literacy Run Walk coming on October 4th. Note Special today from Berkely Running Company
Berkeley Running Company Donates 10% of sales today!
As an official sponsor of the upcoming Literacy Network Run/Walk, the Berkeley Running Company is going the extra mile by donating ten percent of their sales today Friday, September 11th. This monetary contribution benefits the work of the Literacy Network helping people reach their literacy goals.
Please visit Berkeley Running Company today at 3234 University Avenue. Their website: http://www.berkeleyrunningcompany.com. Thanks to David and the great staff at Berkeley Running Company for their generous donation to support our work!
Registration is now available for the 18th Annual Literacy Network Run/Walk to be held on Sunday, October 4 at 10:30 a.m.
As an official sponsor of the upcoming Literacy Network Run/Walk, the Berkeley Running Company is going the extra mile by donating ten percent of their sales today Friday, September 11th. This monetary contribution benefits the work of the Literacy Network helping people reach their literacy goals.
Please visit Berkeley Running Company today at 3234 University Avenue. Their website: http://www.berkeleyrunningcompany.com. Thanks to David and the great staff at Berkeley Running Company for their generous donation to support our work!
Registration is now available for the 18th Annual Literacy Network Run/Walk to be held on Sunday, October 4 at 10:30 a.m.
WSJ: BobFest Corner: Time to Question Bernanke
Click on the post for the OpEd in the Wisconsin State Journal.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Gaxette; No problem with athletic overspending---the budget was wrong?
Click on the post for a classic.
"Chasin the News" Moves to Wordpress
"Chasin the News" has a new link for its blog====Click on the post for the new link.
Gazette; Evansville raises Water/Sewer rates: 55% rise termed "relatively nominal"
Click on the post for the story in the Janesville Gazette.
Outline of President Obama's Health Plan revealed
Click on the link and scroll down for the summary.
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
NYT: Overspending on Debit cards is boon for banks fees
Click on the post for the story in the New York Times.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Video: 3; Swine Flu prevention--hand washing
Video; 3: Special new Hand Washing exhibit on Hand Washing at Minnesota State Fair illustrates gaps in visitor hand washing and makes recommendations...
Download File
Download File
Video: 8: Beach at Grandview Lodge: Brainerd, Mn.
Video: 8: Travelogue; Tour of the Beach at Grandview Lodge, Brainerd, Mn. Click on the post for the official website.
Download File
Download File
Gazette: Wisconsin Treasurer under fire for travel to California to learn ideas on mangement and for hiring niece
Click on the post for the story. Attending conferences by video conferencing is cool. Travel and Enterntainment during times of municipal and state crisis is coming under fierce criticism nationwide. Stay tuned.
Video: Inside Tour of Grandview Lodge
Video 7: Inside Tour of The main floor, dining room and walk to the lake of Grandview Lodge in Brainerd, Mn. http://www.grandviewlodge.com/ Click on the post for the official website of Grandview, one of the top ten lodges nationwide.
Download File
Download File
MyWay: Michael Moore's new film: "Capitalism, A love story" is coming soon
Click on the post for the latest.
Monday, September 07, 2009
Sunday, September 06, 2009
Huffington Post: The rise of fed up judges
Back in the 1930,s there was a bank foreclosure holiday....we are almost to that point. Judges are getting fed up with loan servicers that are unresponsive and...worse...Click on the post for the article.
Saturday, September 05, 2009
WSJ: Man nurses albino squirrel back to health
Nobody covers the offbeat stories like the Wisconsin State Journal. Click on the post.
Background: Atty Rex Fernandez on Human Rights abuses in the Philippines: Rex will speak ths month in Mpls
Ed note: Click on the post for the list of seminars coming soon in the Twin Cities:
Position Paper: Human Rights in the Philippines
Attorney Rex J.M.A. Fernandez
8-10-09
It is a festering problem. Ever since the US propped up a dictatorship in the Philippines, impunity was born. Of the hundreds of thousands suffering human rights abuses during the Marcos dictatorship of 1972-1986, including the tens of thousands of extrajudicial killings, very few had been solved, much less justice given.
These human rights abuses and extrajudicial killings have continued until the present; and until the present, rare is the case that is solved and rarely is justice given.
Continued violations of human rights are committed with the intention of concealing and hiding the perpetrators but not the crime. The perpetrators even make sure that the people will recognize it to be the work of the military and will become afraid - but not enough to file a case in court.
The recent treatment of Ms. Melissa Roxas, 31, is a case in point. She was abducted on May 19, 2009, together with two companions of a rural health survey team of Bayan - Tarlac, from a house in La Paz town, Tarlac Province of the Philippines by 15 armed men with masks. They were thrown into a van, kept blindfolded, and driven to a place near a camp where planes land and take off, where there is a firing range, cells, an office and a women’s barracks. The place is believed to be a major Fort where Ninoy Aquino and Jose Diokno were detained in the first hours after the declaration of martial law in 1972.
For a week, they were interrogated, beaten, promised death, and given a Philippine low tech version of water-boarding: plastic bags were placed over their heads and sealed, and kept there until they blacked out. They were asked if they were NPA (a rebel group) members, their positions, what houses they visited, and who they talked to. When not being tortured, they were pummeled with anti-communist sermons couched in religious language.
After discovering that Melissa Roxas was an American citizen and not a Canadian, torture eased, although interrogation continued until she was released very near her house.
The blindfold and the handcuff. The brazenness and the confidence that they cannot be touched. The place and the sounds. The location. The physical torture. The professionalism and well studied procedure in the whole process. The lecture and the sermons. The offer of friendship and the implied imminence of physical pain and possibly death.
These are the patterns of Military and government abduction in the Philippines - enforced disappearance and torture.
It also shows the influence and moral position/training of the American government over the Philippine military.
This is the not so unusual treatment by Philippine armed forces of civilians who are active in nonviolent nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that help the poor and often are very critical of government corruption and insensitivity toward the plight of the poor. Over 1,000 have been killed outright on our streets, over 1000 have been tortured and over 200 have been abducted and are feared forever Disappeared in the past eight years under the presidency of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, as documented by a national human rights group called Karapatan (over 25 of their members victims, too) and a dozen other large international human rights and church organizations deeply concerned about human rights.
After their release, Melissa Roxas and colleagues received counsel by human rights attorney Rex Fernandez, and she has filed a Writ of Amparo (“to protect”), a procedure set up by the Philippine Supreme Court to allow access to government facilities where persons are detained and/or tortured. Melissa held back her full story until she was safely in the U.S. Now, her story can be heard on YouTube, and it is not easy to listen to, nor was it for her to tell. On July 20, she returned to the Philippines and testified to the Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines, the Committee on Human Rights of the House of Representatives and the Court of Appeals.
The Writ of Amparo, a reaction of an exasperated Supreme Court which could not stomach the continuing extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances, torture, food control, hamletting and other human rights violations, is a tool to watch. Will it shield persons and propel justice?
Rex Fernandez has spent 27 years defending the unpopular in the Philippines against charges, arrests, abductions and worse done by members of state security forces during their endless “war on terror”. While there are plenty of victims, both civilians and armed rebels of several persuasions, in many places in the Philippines, Karapatan and outside HR groups focus on the innocent NGO workers who are trying to help the poor get their rights. From the murder of his law school mentor, attorney Al Surigao, in 1988, until the case of Melissa now, Rex has assisted over 150 defendants in court. He is a leading expert on the Writ of Amparo, and its uses to stop torture and other human rights violations, produce detainees and most of all to eradicate impunity. As leading counsel for Karapatan, 90% of this work is pro bono.
He will present facts and experiences on the state of Philippine jurisprudence, from court practices, to judge competency, to Supreme Court rulings and to how you win cases for the accused. The US State Department annual HR reports on the Philippines point out incompetencies and corruption of hard to imagine scales. He will discuss the Philippine government’s current War on Terror, and how the US has aided, promoted and benefited from it.
With visits this year from the US Secretary of Defense, the head of the CIA, and on July 30 the state visit of President Arroyo to see President Obama in Washington, and continued presence of 600 US troops in Mindanao, many critical issues are in transition. Will the serious HR abuses be curtailed, or allowed to continue? Will there be elections of a new president in 2010? Does the US want strong, democratic institutions in allies as close to the US as is the Philippines, or prefer (multinational) business as usual, and suppression of the poor, as usual, in that country? What might be the political fall-out of the evolving story of the treatment of Melissa Roxas, the US poster child for the real terror happening in the Philippines?
Position Paper: Human Rights in the Philippines
Attorney Rex J.M.A. Fernandez
8-10-09
It is a festering problem. Ever since the US propped up a dictatorship in the Philippines, impunity was born. Of the hundreds of thousands suffering human rights abuses during the Marcos dictatorship of 1972-1986, including the tens of thousands of extrajudicial killings, very few had been solved, much less justice given.
These human rights abuses and extrajudicial killings have continued until the present; and until the present, rare is the case that is solved and rarely is justice given.
Continued violations of human rights are committed with the intention of concealing and hiding the perpetrators but not the crime. The perpetrators even make sure that the people will recognize it to be the work of the military and will become afraid - but not enough to file a case in court.
The recent treatment of Ms. Melissa Roxas, 31, is a case in point. She was abducted on May 19, 2009, together with two companions of a rural health survey team of Bayan - Tarlac, from a house in La Paz town, Tarlac Province of the Philippines by 15 armed men with masks. They were thrown into a van, kept blindfolded, and driven to a place near a camp where planes land and take off, where there is a firing range, cells, an office and a women’s barracks. The place is believed to be a major Fort where Ninoy Aquino and Jose Diokno were detained in the first hours after the declaration of martial law in 1972.
For a week, they were interrogated, beaten, promised death, and given a Philippine low tech version of water-boarding: plastic bags were placed over their heads and sealed, and kept there until they blacked out. They were asked if they were NPA (a rebel group) members, their positions, what houses they visited, and who they talked to. When not being tortured, they were pummeled with anti-communist sermons couched in religious language.
After discovering that Melissa Roxas was an American citizen and not a Canadian, torture eased, although interrogation continued until she was released very near her house.
The blindfold and the handcuff. The brazenness and the confidence that they cannot be touched. The place and the sounds. The location. The physical torture. The professionalism and well studied procedure in the whole process. The lecture and the sermons. The offer of friendship and the implied imminence of physical pain and possibly death.
These are the patterns of Military and government abduction in the Philippines - enforced disappearance and torture.
It also shows the influence and moral position/training of the American government over the Philippine military.
This is the not so unusual treatment by Philippine armed forces of civilians who are active in nonviolent nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that help the poor and often are very critical of government corruption and insensitivity toward the plight of the poor. Over 1,000 have been killed outright on our streets, over 1000 have been tortured and over 200 have been abducted and are feared forever Disappeared in the past eight years under the presidency of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, as documented by a national human rights group called Karapatan (over 25 of their members victims, too) and a dozen other large international human rights and church organizations deeply concerned about human rights.
After their release, Melissa Roxas and colleagues received counsel by human rights attorney Rex Fernandez, and she has filed a Writ of Amparo (“to protect”), a procedure set up by the Philippine Supreme Court to allow access to government facilities where persons are detained and/or tortured. Melissa held back her full story until she was safely in the U.S. Now, her story can be heard on YouTube, and it is not easy to listen to, nor was it for her to tell. On July 20, she returned to the Philippines and testified to the Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines, the Committee on Human Rights of the House of Representatives and the Court of Appeals.
The Writ of Amparo, a reaction of an exasperated Supreme Court which could not stomach the continuing extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances, torture, food control, hamletting and other human rights violations, is a tool to watch. Will it shield persons and propel justice?
Rex Fernandez has spent 27 years defending the unpopular in the Philippines against charges, arrests, abductions and worse done by members of state security forces during their endless “war on terror”. While there are plenty of victims, both civilians and armed rebels of several persuasions, in many places in the Philippines, Karapatan and outside HR groups focus on the innocent NGO workers who are trying to help the poor get their rights. From the murder of his law school mentor, attorney Al Surigao, in 1988, until the case of Melissa now, Rex has assisted over 150 defendants in court. He is a leading expert on the Writ of Amparo, and its uses to stop torture and other human rights violations, produce detainees and most of all to eradicate impunity. As leading counsel for Karapatan, 90% of this work is pro bono.
He will present facts and experiences on the state of Philippine jurisprudence, from court practices, to judge competency, to Supreme Court rulings and to how you win cases for the accused. The US State Department annual HR reports on the Philippines point out incompetencies and corruption of hard to imagine scales. He will discuss the Philippine government’s current War on Terror, and how the US has aided, promoted and benefited from it.
With visits this year from the US Secretary of Defense, the head of the CIA, and on July 30 the state visit of President Arroyo to see President Obama in Washington, and continued presence of 600 US troops in Mindanao, many critical issues are in transition. Will the serious HR abuses be curtailed, or allowed to continue? Will there be elections of a new president in 2010? Does the US want strong, democratic institutions in allies as close to the US as is the Philippines, or prefer (multinational) business as usual, and suppression of the poor, as usual, in that country? What might be the political fall-out of the evolving story of the treatment of Melissa Roxas, the US poster child for the real terror happening in the Philippines?
Friday, September 04, 2009
Eddington: How many interviews does it take?
How many Interviews does it take?
I have had several conversations with candidates recently and some interesting facts have begun to surface.
One friend said, "I had 13 interviews to eventually get hired."
Another said, "it is a 30 employee company and I have now had 6 interviews, and I am still going."
I found myself laughing and then started thinking that If a person needs to meet 20% of the staff at a firm to be "accepted," what if the company had 5000 employees? How would that work?
Maybe like this?
(Imagine the green smoke and eerie violin music of a dream)
"Yes, Mr. Jones, you will be meeting 1000 of your potential colleagues before we extend you an offer. With some luck, the interviewing process should be completed in 2 years. After the interviewing process is completed, we will require 6 months to evaluate the responses from the 1000 people and give you an answer promptly thereafter. Be advised that we will not discount the fact that more interviews may be necessary to fully evaluate your credentials. As a convenience, we have set up a web site for the purposes of keeping the information organized and accessible. Certain confidential parts of this site will, of course, not be viewable by you, the applicant, but you will be able to monitor how many of the interviewers have responded positively or negatively. Be further advised that the number of positive responses versus negative responses will not necessarily be the deciding factor in our decision. We appreciate your interest in us and wish you the best."
End of imaginary, dream-like, simulated altered-reality pictogram.
I am not saying that my perverted, cartoon-like vision of the ultimate nightmare will ever really HAPPEN, it is just another example of how the "interviewing and selection" process has evolved over the last year or two.
I am also NOT taking a cheap shot at employers who feel that "multiple" interviews are necessary to really evaluate someone. Sometimes it is necessary.
This is humor.
Factually influenced fiction.
In the old days, I would have a sales person come in at least twice to see if they owned more than one suit. Lots of times, they didn't.
If you find yourself in the endless interview loop, it is never inappropriate to ask how long the process is and what to expect from each interview. The employer should be able to tell you how, and WHY they do it, or better yet, ask the headhunter.
Steve Eddington
To review available jobs or send your resume click HERE
To subscribe to my BLOG feed use this link
http://feeds.feedburner.com/WirelessRecruiting
Click on the link below to see more information about Electronic Search Services services:
http://www.electronicsearch.com/esi_services.htm?source=emailBLOG1
I have had several conversations with candidates recently and some interesting facts have begun to surface.
One friend said, "I had 13 interviews to eventually get hired."
Another said, "it is a 30 employee company and I have now had 6 interviews, and I am still going."
I found myself laughing and then started thinking that If a person needs to meet 20% of the staff at a firm to be "accepted," what if the company had 5000 employees? How would that work?
Maybe like this?
(Imagine the green smoke and eerie violin music of a dream)
"Yes, Mr. Jones, you will be meeting 1000 of your potential colleagues before we extend you an offer. With some luck, the interviewing process should be completed in 2 years. After the interviewing process is completed, we will require 6 months to evaluate the responses from the 1000 people and give you an answer promptly thereafter. Be advised that we will not discount the fact that more interviews may be necessary to fully evaluate your credentials. As a convenience, we have set up a web site for the purposes of keeping the information organized and accessible. Certain confidential parts of this site will, of course, not be viewable by you, the applicant, but you will be able to monitor how many of the interviewers have responded positively or negatively. Be further advised that the number of positive responses versus negative responses will not necessarily be the deciding factor in our decision. We appreciate your interest in us and wish you the best."
End of imaginary, dream-like, simulated altered-reality pictogram.
I am not saying that my perverted, cartoon-like vision of the ultimate nightmare will ever really HAPPEN, it is just another example of how the "interviewing and selection" process has evolved over the last year or two.
I am also NOT taking a cheap shot at employers who feel that "multiple" interviews are necessary to really evaluate someone. Sometimes it is necessary.
This is humor.
Factually influenced fiction.
In the old days, I would have a sales person come in at least twice to see if they owned more than one suit. Lots of times, they didn't.
If you find yourself in the endless interview loop, it is never inappropriate to ask how long the process is and what to expect from each interview. The employer should be able to tell you how, and WHY they do it, or better yet, ask the headhunter.
Steve Eddington
To review available jobs or send your resume click HERE
To subscribe to my BLOG feed use this link
http://feeds.feedburner.com/WirelessRecruiting
Click on the link below to see more information about Electronic Search Services services:
http://www.electronicsearch.com/esi_services.htm?source=emailBLOG1
Business: Twitter: Using Hashtags for Business
Twitter applications are exploding---click on the post for an article on how it is used.
Mailbag: Update: Finance Committee recommends 60:40 variable:fixed; Moves to more conservation focus
The recommendation is that 60% of the debt service be included in the variable rate.
-Dan
-Dan
Mailbag: Ecology: Green: Mike writes on product everyone can agree on
I know your company is moving towards greater sustainability and thought these products might be of interest.
This months promotional campaign features Eco-friendly GREEN Products. I found this liquid powered clock very interesting.
No batteries are required for the Liquid Powered Clock. Fill it up with water, juice, milk - even beer!
Displays date, as well as the time. Color: Blue Size: 1"x2"x1.75"
Click part # for larger image & price: 6620-06 Liquid Powered
Marketwatch: Pensions: What the history of pension failures means for you?
Click on the post for a look into the future.
Isthmus: Edgewater--a better alternative to current proposal
Click on the post for an article in the Isthmus that presents a plan for the Edgewater that follows the law with respect to the height requirements for the neighboorhood, and delivers the same revenue needed for the expansion to proceed.
NYT: Wells Fargo Bank exec sumoned to explain mortgage modification mess
Click on the post for the story.
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Mailbag: I and E: September 2009
Hello Everyone:Now that we have all of our Summer frolicking out of the way, it is time to get down to business! Please join us for our September I&E Club meeting:Wednesday, September 9, 6:30 at the Eager Economy BuildingThis month?s speaker will be David P. Weller of Lathrop & Clark, LLP. David is an attorney and partner with the firm. He is also a certified public accountant. Mr. Weller will talk about the formation of different business entities and the legal and tax benefits of each.Come share resources, exchange ideas, and be mentored. The club welcomes not just inventors and entrepreneurs, but also established businesses, new businesses, and investors. Keep in mind that invention is more than just creating new gizmos, it is innovation too. It can be creating a new service, process, concept, mind-set, message, or strategy which is better than the existing alternatives. You never know who you might meet and what you might learn!We would like to acknowledge and thank our meeting facility Sponsors Jeff Farnsworth and Roger Berg, Eager Economy Building. We greatly appreciate the use of such a wonderful meeting place!Please check out the information posted on our LinkedIn Group Page at:http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=1923240&trk=hb_side_gOur group page has club announcements, links to great resources, and it is a great resource to network, communicate, and post your announcements. If you need help getting registered or getting your profile started at LinkedIn, please contact Cindy at cindy@hammerbuilder.com or 608-774-6382 608-774-6382.Feel free to post and/or distribute the attached meeting announcement and help us welcome folks to our next meeting.We hope to see you all on Wed, Sept 9!Thank you,
Tales from Normal,Mn: " Normal Solves Health Care Crisis"--FICTION-
Click on the post for the latest.
Minutes: Community Center; Case Validation Task Force: August 31, 2009
CASE VALIDATION TASK FORCE
Monday, August 31, 2009
Union Bank & Trust Meeting Room
Minutes
Present: Chair Chris Eager, Betsy Ahner, Lori Allen, Barb Andrew, Thea Brunsell, Mary Calley, Toni Coats, John Decker, Ron DeKelver, Nicole Hamby, Phil Hamilton, Bill Hartje, Carla Heimerl, Rose Helms, Fred Juergens, Jim Kopecky, Dan Laux, Tim Magee, Kolleen Onsrud, Gene Prudhon, Janis Ringhand, David Ross, Wally Shannon, Audrey Shomos, Diane Skinner, Gil Skinner, Michelle Sturz, Greg Whitmore, John Willoughby. Absent: Gordon Franklin, Steve Hagen, Dan Janes, John Peterson, Sverre Roang, Sherri Savchuk, Phil Woodworth, Richard Woulfe, Doug Zweizig. Consultant: Kurt Saterbak.
1. Call to order
Welcome by Chair Chris Eager, thank you for coming, let’s get started! Chris turned
the meeting over to Kurt Saterbak.
2. Brainstorming process
Who will use the facility –
1. Reunions-Class & Family 13. Crafters 25. Council on Aging
2. Political Groups 14. Children’s Groups 26. Churches
3. Weddings 15. Cooking Groups 27. PTO
4. Community & School Clubs 16. Classes 28. I & E Club
5. Seniors 17. Public Forums 29. Commuters
6. Service Clinics 18. Woodchucks 30. Parents
7. Voters 19. YMCA 31. Neighboring
8. Blood Drives 20. Private Parties Communities
9. Entertainers 21. Library/Larger Events 32. Non-Profits
10. Art Exhibits 22. Chamber 33. EMT Classes
11. Cultural Clubs 23. Town Boards
12. Fitness Groups 24. Blackhawk Tech
What are the consequences of not completing this project?
1. Continued Outflow of Citizens 11. Let Down for People Who 19. Lose Opportunity to
for Other Opportunities Have Put Lots of Time Into Enrich Sense of
2. Maintaining the Status Quo/ Project Community
Stagnating 12. Wider Gap to Meet 20. Don’t Want to Feel
3. Lack of Opportunity for Community Needs Like a Lesser
Intergenerational Contact/ 13. Additional Space for Community
Networking Voting 21. Disappoint Seniors
4. Loss of $1M Trust 14. Loss of Momentum 22. Less Business for
5. Diminishment of Entertainment, 15. No Phase I, No Phase II Local Economy
Educational Opportunities & 16. Woodchucks Would Be 23. No Dedicated
Draw to the Community Homeless Senior Site
6. No Central Meeting Place 17. Will Need Meals on 24. Limited Programs
7. Loss of Programs Wheels Site 25. Loss of Potential $$
8. No Conference Sites in Town 18. Loss of Attraction for 26. Loss of Crown
9. Nothing Will Change Prospective Business & Jewel
10. Limited Space for Larger Residents 27. May Have To Go
Meetings Through This Process Again
Who will directly benefit from the EC&SC?
1. People Who Work There 11. Red Cross Blood Drives 20. Caterers
2. Employees 12. Other Communities 21. Bank if it Provides
3. Seniors Who Could Use It Financing
4. Woodchucks 13. School-Added Room 22. Commuters
5. Community in General 14. Civic Groups 23. Cleaning Company
6. Local Business 15. Storm Water District 24. Homebound Elderly
7. Contractors/Builders 16. Water & Light Dept. 25. Food Suppliers
8. Maintenance Contractors 17. Neighbors – Won’t Have 26. Insurers
9. Volunteer Coordinators To Look At Empty Lot 27. Educators
May Have More Help 18. Suppliers of Materials 28. Baker Mfg.
10. People Who Like 19. Magnet for Future
Something New Development In TIF #5
Who will indirectly benefit from the EC & SC?
1. Restaurants 9. Families of Users 17. Citizens Who Don’t
2. Hotel 10. Community Residents Use It Directly Can
3. Kelly House 11. Realtors Indirectly Benefit
4. Heights of E-ville Manor 12. Home Owners 18. Community Pride
5. Gas Stations 13. Farmers 19. Schools
6. Banks 14. Farmers Market 20. New Residents
7. Home Sellers 15. Children of Seniors 21. Suppliers of Chucks
8. Newcomers 16. People Who Are Near of Wood
Retirement 22. All Local Businesses
Why is this project, The Community & Senior Center, important to Evansville? Me? Us?
1. Lack of Gathering Space 11. Help Existing Organizations 22. Important Social
2. Meeting the Needs of Seniors Function More Efficiently Center for Young &
and Other Members of the 12. Encourage Artistic Expression Old
Community 13. Community Togetherness 23. Provide Focal Point
3. On An Even Par With Other 14. Aesthetically Pleasing for Shared Exper-
Communities 15. Truly A Community Facility iences and Fun
4. Space That Allows Us To 16. Help Keep Community Alive 24. Environment for
Think To The Next Step (Pool) 17. Strengthen Bonds Lifelong Learning
5. Beautiful Place For Family 18. Proves We Can Do Some- 25. Contribute to Down
Events thing Important, Even In Town Revitalization
6. Cleans Up That Dark Spot Bad Economic Times 26. Help Develop a
7. Chance For All Of Us To Take 19. Appealing Addition to Sense of Place
Classes Here Not There Community 27. Emergency Shelter
8. Swim Here Not There 20. Momentum Space
9. Shows We Value Our Seniors 21. Attract Rural Neighbors
10. Sense Of Pride
Kurt noted that the comments are visionary rather than bricks and mortar type, that shows we
understand the underlying benefits of the project.
Kurt will work all this information into a comprehensive package that will be used for public presentations. Everyone will receive an electronic copy by September 16; Kurt will need time to put the project together. Print your copy, mark it up with a highlighter, make changes, and correct spelling. Next meeting Chris will help tear it apart and we will put it back together. The 4th meeting we will have a clean copy to take out to new eyes to review. All questions will be answered and tabbed for reference; you need to let us know if we answered the questions. These questions and answers will be the basis for our frequently asked questions, FAQ’s. It will be our document with our comments and phraseology.
The next meeting will be Monday September 21st, Kurt will get a draft to us by September 16, so we can review and critique.
Adjourn at 8:10 p.m.
Next Meeting - Monday, September 21st at 7:00 p.m., Union Bank & Trust Meeting Room
Monday, August 31, 2009
Union Bank & Trust Meeting Room
Minutes
Present: Chair Chris Eager, Betsy Ahner, Lori Allen, Barb Andrew, Thea Brunsell, Mary Calley, Toni Coats, John Decker, Ron DeKelver, Nicole Hamby, Phil Hamilton, Bill Hartje, Carla Heimerl, Rose Helms, Fred Juergens, Jim Kopecky, Dan Laux, Tim Magee, Kolleen Onsrud, Gene Prudhon, Janis Ringhand, David Ross, Wally Shannon, Audrey Shomos, Diane Skinner, Gil Skinner, Michelle Sturz, Greg Whitmore, John Willoughby. Absent: Gordon Franklin, Steve Hagen, Dan Janes, John Peterson, Sverre Roang, Sherri Savchuk, Phil Woodworth, Richard Woulfe, Doug Zweizig. Consultant: Kurt Saterbak.
1. Call to order
Welcome by Chair Chris Eager, thank you for coming, let’s get started! Chris turned
the meeting over to Kurt Saterbak.
2. Brainstorming process
Who will use the facility –
1. Reunions-Class & Family 13. Crafters 25. Council on Aging
2. Political Groups 14. Children’s Groups 26. Churches
3. Weddings 15. Cooking Groups 27. PTO
4. Community & School Clubs 16. Classes 28. I & E Club
5. Seniors 17. Public Forums 29. Commuters
6. Service Clinics 18. Woodchucks 30. Parents
7. Voters 19. YMCA 31. Neighboring
8. Blood Drives 20. Private Parties Communities
9. Entertainers 21. Library/Larger Events 32. Non-Profits
10. Art Exhibits 22. Chamber 33. EMT Classes
11. Cultural Clubs 23. Town Boards
12. Fitness Groups 24. Blackhawk Tech
What are the consequences of not completing this project?
1. Continued Outflow of Citizens 11. Let Down for People Who 19. Lose Opportunity to
for Other Opportunities Have Put Lots of Time Into Enrich Sense of
2. Maintaining the Status Quo/ Project Community
Stagnating 12. Wider Gap to Meet 20. Don’t Want to Feel
3. Lack of Opportunity for Community Needs Like a Lesser
Intergenerational Contact/ 13. Additional Space for Community
Networking Voting 21. Disappoint Seniors
4. Loss of $1M Trust 14. Loss of Momentum 22. Less Business for
5. Diminishment of Entertainment, 15. No Phase I, No Phase II Local Economy
Educational Opportunities & 16. Woodchucks Would Be 23. No Dedicated
Draw to the Community Homeless Senior Site
6. No Central Meeting Place 17. Will Need Meals on 24. Limited Programs
7. Loss of Programs Wheels Site 25. Loss of Potential $$
8. No Conference Sites in Town 18. Loss of Attraction for 26. Loss of Crown
9. Nothing Will Change Prospective Business & Jewel
10. Limited Space for Larger Residents 27. May Have To Go
Meetings Through This Process Again
Who will directly benefit from the EC&SC?
1. People Who Work There 11. Red Cross Blood Drives 20. Caterers
2. Employees 12. Other Communities 21. Bank if it Provides
3. Seniors Who Could Use It Financing
4. Woodchucks 13. School-Added Room 22. Commuters
5. Community in General 14. Civic Groups 23. Cleaning Company
6. Local Business 15. Storm Water District 24. Homebound Elderly
7. Contractors/Builders 16. Water & Light Dept. 25. Food Suppliers
8. Maintenance Contractors 17. Neighbors – Won’t Have 26. Insurers
9. Volunteer Coordinators To Look At Empty Lot 27. Educators
May Have More Help 18. Suppliers of Materials 28. Baker Mfg.
10. People Who Like 19. Magnet for Future
Something New Development In TIF #5
Who will indirectly benefit from the EC & SC?
1. Restaurants 9. Families of Users 17. Citizens Who Don’t
2. Hotel 10. Community Residents Use It Directly Can
3. Kelly House 11. Realtors Indirectly Benefit
4. Heights of E-ville Manor 12. Home Owners 18. Community Pride
5. Gas Stations 13. Farmers 19. Schools
6. Banks 14. Farmers Market 20. New Residents
7. Home Sellers 15. Children of Seniors 21. Suppliers of Chucks
8. Newcomers 16. People Who Are Near of Wood
Retirement 22. All Local Businesses
Why is this project, The Community & Senior Center, important to Evansville? Me? Us?
1. Lack of Gathering Space 11. Help Existing Organizations 22. Important Social
2. Meeting the Needs of Seniors Function More Efficiently Center for Young &
and Other Members of the 12. Encourage Artistic Expression Old
Community 13. Community Togetherness 23. Provide Focal Point
3. On An Even Par With Other 14. Aesthetically Pleasing for Shared Exper-
Communities 15. Truly A Community Facility iences and Fun
4. Space That Allows Us To 16. Help Keep Community Alive 24. Environment for
Think To The Next Step (Pool) 17. Strengthen Bonds Lifelong Learning
5. Beautiful Place For Family 18. Proves We Can Do Some- 25. Contribute to Down
Events thing Important, Even In Town Revitalization
6. Cleans Up That Dark Spot Bad Economic Times 26. Help Develop a
7. Chance For All Of Us To Take 19. Appealing Addition to Sense of Place
Classes Here Not There Community 27. Emergency Shelter
8. Swim Here Not There 20. Momentum Space
9. Shows We Value Our Seniors 21. Attract Rural Neighbors
10. Sense Of Pride
Kurt noted that the comments are visionary rather than bricks and mortar type, that shows we
understand the underlying benefits of the project.
Kurt will work all this information into a comprehensive package that will be used for public presentations. Everyone will receive an electronic copy by September 16; Kurt will need time to put the project together. Print your copy, mark it up with a highlighter, make changes, and correct spelling. Next meeting Chris will help tear it apart and we will put it back together. The 4th meeting we will have a clean copy to take out to new eyes to review. All questions will be answered and tabbed for reference; you need to let us know if we answered the questions. These questions and answers will be the basis for our frequently asked questions, FAQ’s. It will be our document with our comments and phraseology.
The next meeting will be Monday September 21st, Kurt will get a draft to us by September 16, so we can review and critique.
Adjourn at 8:10 p.m.
Next Meeting - Monday, September 21st at 7:00 p.m., Union Bank & Trust Meeting Room
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Cities Begin Using Twitter for Community Event notification
Click on the post for a sample, or look on the right side of the Evansville Observer to see a sample of what one city is doing with twitter to better inform the public of upcoming events.
Ch15: Madison chooses plastic pink flamingo as offical bird
Madison makes a bold statement. Surely a community should declare an official bird before it embarks on the major task of defining a distinctive logo that will qualify it as a destination of distinction.
What bird would you pick for Evansville?
Click on the post for the full story.
What bird would you pick for Evansville?
Click on the post for the full story.
WSJ: West Bend Hospital charged in disability discrimination case: settles for 70K
Click on the post for the latest.
Business corner: Discover Wisconsin meeting tonight
Click on the post for all the details on the meeting tonight in the EHS media room at 6:30PM.
The Observer is on location shooting some video of some community centers and will have some indepth video when I return.
If you click on the post you will see a special photo of the Discover Team with camera on shoulder filming Jon Erpenbach.
I just love the photo and it is a classic---It features the left rear video shot---I know this angle best because as the Evansville Observer, this is the only video shot I allow the press to take of me...yes alas when I was young I reveled in the front angle shots, but now only the right rear is my best side.
Seriously, Jon has some front angle shots left. He has years to go before the rear angle days arrive. Stay tuned.
The Observer is on location shooting some video of some community centers and will have some indepth video when I return.
If you click on the post you will see a special photo of the Discover Team with camera on shoulder filming Jon Erpenbach.
I just love the photo and it is a classic---It features the left rear video shot---I know this angle best because as the Evansville Observer, this is the only video shot I allow the press to take of me...yes alas when I was young I reveled in the front angle shots, but now only the right rear is my best side.
Seriously, Jon has some front angle shots left. He has years to go before the rear angle days arrive. Stay tuned.
Evansville Water/Sewer discussion gets national attention
(Ed.note: The tracking service of The Observer has recorded 1578 downloads of one water/sewer video and 836 of another.
2,146 Video: 3 of 3: City engineer talks of Water/… 5 5 836 146.82 MB
2,142 Video: 1 of 3: Public Works; Water/Sewer rate… 1 0 0 703 B
2,141 Video: Evansville Water Rates--1 of 3: Fixed;… 4 3 1,578 102.21 M
--------------------------------------
One of the questions I have been asking myself lately is WHY---why would large numbers of Americans nationwide be interested in watching Dave Sauer, the City of Evansville engineer, discuss the structure of our water rates...fixed v variable.
It sure might be the broken arm cast that he is wearing at the same time he is telling the viewers how risk averse he is to variable rates.....the public might be amused to find that a guy that rides an off road motocross vehicle with daring would be risk averse to charging sewer rates in a fashion that would encourage conservation. Thus...it might be a source of national amusement.
On the other hand, now that Evansville has secured the 4 million dollars stimulus money, it is a better bet that the rest of the nation is trying to follow suit....make the proper applications to get their money...and solve the recession by adding some debt to the national scorecard...and who cares really if there is any saving in any way shape or form. In fact, it might just be the source of civic pride and speaking engagements. Stay tuned.
2,146 Video: 3 of 3: City engineer talks of Water/… 5 5 836 146.82 MB
2,142 Video: 1 of 3: Public Works; Water/Sewer rate… 1 0 0 703 B
2,141 Video: Evansville Water Rates--1 of 3: Fixed;… 4 3 1,578 102.21 M
--------------------------------------
One of the questions I have been asking myself lately is WHY---why would large numbers of Americans nationwide be interested in watching Dave Sauer, the City of Evansville engineer, discuss the structure of our water rates...fixed v variable.
It sure might be the broken arm cast that he is wearing at the same time he is telling the viewers how risk averse he is to variable rates.....the public might be amused to find that a guy that rides an off road motocross vehicle with daring would be risk averse to charging sewer rates in a fashion that would encourage conservation. Thus...it might be a source of national amusement.
On the other hand, now that Evansville has secured the 4 million dollars stimulus money, it is a better bet that the rest of the nation is trying to follow suit....make the proper applications to get their money...and solve the recession by adding some debt to the national scorecard...and who cares really if there is any saving in any way shape or form. In fact, it might just be the source of civic pride and speaking engagements. Stay tuned.
CapTimes: OpEd: Zweifel: Out of sight..Out of Mind
He may be retired, but he has not lost the touch===Zweifel reviews one of the first areas to say NO to when the cuts come....Click on the post.
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
Finance Meets Thursday: Sewer Rates on agenda: additional creek wall expense
Click on the post for the agenda.
Paul Revere Pizza opens today in Evansville---check it out
The Buzz has it that Paul Revere Pizza has opened today on the eastside of Evansville, next to the "Shack"---that is the new buzz word for Radio Shack. Stop by and wish the folks at Paul Revere well....and have some pizza.
Frat Shock--Minn Gophers--no drinking outside on frat lawns on gameday
Frat members and alums are trying to adjust to the new ...the new rules about drinking at and around U of Minnesota Gopher games---there is no drinking in the stadium...and no drinking allowed by even alums on the front lawns of the frat houses on game day....New definition of sportsmanship sought...stay tuned for complete report.
GetOutDoors Magazine reviews Firehose 92204
Click on the post for the review of one of the few work pants that has the "dare to outwear" them guarantee---if you do rip, tear, or outwear them, you get a new pair free, and the freight too.
Click on the post for the review.
Click on the post for the review.