The Evansville Planning Commission met on Tuesday, Sept 6, 2005 and voted to add new plats to the TIF #5. Mr. Wagner from Ehlers and Associates presented data on the new projects proposed as well as a hand written map update just in time for the meeting. Voting members were given the new map just before the meeting.
There were few concerns voiced about the Exhange Street or the Union Street properties added since as it was noted they followed the red-checkered commerical development plan dated June 15, 2005 under Smart Growth.
Questions were raised about the property across from the Fire Station that was included in the TIF #5 and for which historical wood siding would be paid for with TIF money. There would be no incremental value for this project. It would be for "aesthetic" or "historical effect." It was pointed out by the audience that this is not a proper use of TIF money, and Mr. Hamman made a motion which failed that would have excluded the property in question from the TIF.
When asked whether residents could apply for TIF money for siding, Mr. Connors said that only developers who might buy homes in the TIF would be elegible and that this would be an incentive for them to do so. Residents would have to get loans. The Observer observes that it is not clear whether residents who rented out their property would be elegible for TIF money, so residents should not rush to rent out their homes to get the money.
The common council acts on the projects included in the TIf so including any one property in it does not guarantee that the specific project will get approval. So the matter of this property is not finished.
So, what do you think? Should TIF be for tax increment or not? You make the call.
Thursday, September 01, 2005
The Story of Miss Endres; Or, why solving wars 10,000 miles away is easier than 3 ft away; Or the story of Ms. Endres
In my earlier life, I worked in a middle sized metro hospital. Our nursing director was Ms. Endres. She was a larger than life person, with a blazing sense of humor and she had the ability to cut through to the essence of problems. She was heavy set, and at that time in frail health. As a department head, I always loved the meetings that she was present for.
One January, when the hospital was very full, and we were all at peak stress, there was a meeting of the department heads. There was a presentation by a person on a problem occuring in the surgical unit. There were personalities and staffing issues involved. Anyway, after the report, it was time for Ms. Endres to speak.
" Well," she said, "This is really just bull." If we need PR, we can always go to Eric (the PR dept) and have him paper it over, but this is health care, and we need to get to the root of the problem here. Yes, this is about a complaint, but if you look closely at the upper line on each admission to this hospital, you will see the words "Complaint/Diagnosis". So, I don't want to offend all you professionals in any way, but you really are "Complaint specialists" and the day you are not able to respond with sensitivity and speed, is the day you have burned out and need to find a different line of work. In other words, you may work miracles but you need to get through the "complaint" part first. That's the only way to work the miracle."
" So," she went on, "tomorrow I will meet with the physicians involved and with the administrator and the charge nurses involved and we will get to the bottom of this. We can solve it and will. Together as a team we can get it done."
Well, the effect in the room was as though a bolt of lightning had struck. A good bolt of lightning. Not a tornado.
Later that year, I would add the responibility of "Complaint adminstrator" to my list of duties, and had the responsibility of resolving complaints small and large, from the $1.50 pair of slippers to the larger errors. Every complaint was logged and assigned for resolution. There was a standard of 3 days for a billing error. Medical issues were handled stat, which is immediately. Because all complaints, or "concerns" ,large or small,were centrally logged, any administrator could access any concern to find the status. There was never a "I don't know but I will get back to you." There was never telephone tag. That was a route to nowhere.
At the end of the year, I presented a report. It showed that of all the "complaints". 99% were handled in the objective time frame. Less than 1/2 1% were serious and they were resolved.
More importantly, of the small complaints, some system errors were discovered that saved the hospital lots of money and changes were made in how things were done. It got to the point where my staff would ask on the phone if there was any question at all that the patient had about their bill that they did not agree with or understand. By asking and even inviting "concerns", the customers were a lot more satisfied and the process improved very noticibly. I notice many companies on the phone use this technique. They establish that you are satisfied.
Hence, I have always been interested in "Complaint mechanisms". If you click on the post, you will see one of the 1,000,000 search items for this on Yahoo. The central point of almost all these systems is that there is a central log where "concerns" are logged and resolved. Without that key ingrediant, an organization simply is not interested in resolving problems. Organizations without it are simply spinning wheels.
So, I would theorize that it is always easy to expound on how we would solve the wars far away. It is the "wars" close that are more difficult. I urge governments, school districts, and corporations to take grievance resolution seriously and implement systems to make this happen.
One January, when the hospital was very full, and we were all at peak stress, there was a meeting of the department heads. There was a presentation by a person on a problem occuring in the surgical unit. There were personalities and staffing issues involved. Anyway, after the report, it was time for Ms. Endres to speak.
" Well," she said, "This is really just bull." If we need PR, we can always go to Eric (the PR dept) and have him paper it over, but this is health care, and we need to get to the root of the problem here. Yes, this is about a complaint, but if you look closely at the upper line on each admission to this hospital, you will see the words "Complaint/Diagnosis". So, I don't want to offend all you professionals in any way, but you really are "Complaint specialists" and the day you are not able to respond with sensitivity and speed, is the day you have burned out and need to find a different line of work. In other words, you may work miracles but you need to get through the "complaint" part first. That's the only way to work the miracle."
" So," she went on, "tomorrow I will meet with the physicians involved and with the administrator and the charge nurses involved and we will get to the bottom of this. We can solve it and will. Together as a team we can get it done."
Well, the effect in the room was as though a bolt of lightning had struck. A good bolt of lightning. Not a tornado.
Later that year, I would add the responibility of "Complaint adminstrator" to my list of duties, and had the responsibility of resolving complaints small and large, from the $1.50 pair of slippers to the larger errors. Every complaint was logged and assigned for resolution. There was a standard of 3 days for a billing error. Medical issues were handled stat, which is immediately. Because all complaints, or "concerns" ,large or small,were centrally logged, any administrator could access any concern to find the status. There was never a "I don't know but I will get back to you." There was never telephone tag. That was a route to nowhere.
At the end of the year, I presented a report. It showed that of all the "complaints". 99% were handled in the objective time frame. Less than 1/2 1% were serious and they were resolved.
More importantly, of the small complaints, some system errors were discovered that saved the hospital lots of money and changes were made in how things were done. It got to the point where my staff would ask on the phone if there was any question at all that the patient had about their bill that they did not agree with or understand. By asking and even inviting "concerns", the customers were a lot more satisfied and the process improved very noticibly. I notice many companies on the phone use this technique. They establish that you are satisfied.
Hence, I have always been interested in "Complaint mechanisms". If you click on the post, you will see one of the 1,000,000 search items for this on Yahoo. The central point of almost all these systems is that there is a central log where "concerns" are logged and resolved. Without that key ingrediant, an organization simply is not interested in resolving problems. Organizations without it are simply spinning wheels.
So, I would theorize that it is always easy to expound on how we would solve the wars far away. It is the "wars" close that are more difficult. I urge governments, school districts, and corporations to take grievance resolution seriously and implement systems to make this happen.
On Why the High Ground is always the cheapest ground; Memories of Don Sheehan-Dale Carnegie Superstar
Don Sheehan was a world famous Dale Carnegie trainer, and in fact won the Carnegie salesman of the year once in the 80's. He was a legend in training business owners in Minnesota, and also trained many in Wisconsin, doing seminars at the Holiday Inn on East Washington for almost a decade. I knew him as a mentor, trainer, and friend.
In his seminars, he would chant out, " Who has the best chocolate? We would all yell out "Hershey". Who has the best ketsup? We would yell, "Heinz". "Yes," he would say, "How interesting that you all agree on this without any discussion. "
He would then go on to show that the best and most profitable way to sell is to be the market leader. To have the HIGH GROUND. To have the highest standards of business conduct. To treat employees the best in the industry. To treat customers the best etc.
Then he went on to cars. What is the best car? We all yelled out "Toyota". He then told a story about one of the cars that he bought that was the cheapest available. ( Insert your own experience here.)
"When you buy the best, he went on, it only hurts once. When you buy the worst, it keeps on hurting forever." Amen.
Just when I thought he would go on to a moral discussion, since I knew him to be a very devout man, he said, "It has NOTHING to do with morals. It is just BUSINESS. It is the CHEAPEST and most efficient thing to do". He would say," When you tell the truth, you never have to try to remember what you said last time. When you do the books straight, you never have to be afraid of anything."
When we take the high ground, build on the high ground, conduct business on the high ground, we become winners according to Don Sheehan. We avoid the water and snake pits of the lower ground. It has nothing to do with morals. It is just the most economical thing to do.
Don Sheehan was the author of "Shut up and Sell," and "The Price Book."
In his seminars, he would chant out, " Who has the best chocolate? We would all yell out "Hershey". Who has the best ketsup? We would yell, "Heinz". "Yes," he would say, "How interesting that you all agree on this without any discussion. "
He would then go on to show that the best and most profitable way to sell is to be the market leader. To have the HIGH GROUND. To have the highest standards of business conduct. To treat employees the best in the industry. To treat customers the best etc.
Then he went on to cars. What is the best car? We all yelled out "Toyota". He then told a story about one of the cars that he bought that was the cheapest available. ( Insert your own experience here.)
"When you buy the best, he went on, it only hurts once. When you buy the worst, it keeps on hurting forever." Amen.
Just when I thought he would go on to a moral discussion, since I knew him to be a very devout man, he said, "It has NOTHING to do with morals. It is just BUSINESS. It is the CHEAPEST and most efficient thing to do". He would say," When you tell the truth, you never have to try to remember what you said last time. When you do the books straight, you never have to be afraid of anything."
When we take the high ground, build on the high ground, conduct business on the high ground, we become winners according to Don Sheehan. We avoid the water and snake pits of the lower ground. It has nothing to do with morals. It is just the most economical thing to do.
Don Sheehan was the author of "Shut up and Sell," and "The Price Book."
What Business are You in?; Or, Memories of Mr. Haines; Or, The Miracle Business
Sometimes one can be in the right place at the right time. When I began in the hospital business with Unity Hospital, they had just added 100 beds, were rapidly growing and having erratic census. That all adds up to problems. The usual problems of growth. It was just like a bad first half of football. With a few adjustments, the second half could be glorious. So it was for me.
I worked very hard in the first 90 days, and with the right staff, we saw an amazing change in results. I was excited. We all were. I then got the call that the big guy, the head administrator, Mr. Haines, wanted to see me. Face time with him was big. People fought for it. Remembered it. I was just a little nervous as I headed up to the office suite.
When I entered the offices, his secretary told me,"Go right in, Dick. He's waiting for you." That made me even more nervous.
Once in his office, I was startled by his appearance. He was dressed in a surgical outfit, with the mask propped up on his forehead. Sticking out from the bottom of the outfit was his wing tip shoes.
He shook my hand warmly and said, "Good to meet you, Dick. Sit down and relax."
"Excuse my appearance, Dick, but I have just had an unbelievable morning. One of our board members' daughters was rushed to the hospital this morning with a rare complication, and her life and the babies life were in question. I am close with the family, and came in with her. It was very tense. But at the critical moment, Dr. X made all the right decisions, and both her and her baby will be just fine. It was really an amazing thing. It was like a miracle. I'm still on a natural high from the experience."
Then he went on. " Dale has told me nice things about what you have done. I want you to keep up the good work. But above all, I want you never to forget what business we are in. We are in the miracle business. Yes, we are surrounded by numbers, numbers, numbers, and it seems after some long days, that numbers might be what this is all about. Really, if you ever get to the point where that is all it is about, your career is really over. We are in the miracle business!"
After shaking hands and thanking him for his time, I went back to my office. The meeting was nothing like what I had expected. His words, I have never forgotten.
Every guru, every consultant who ever came to any business I have ever worked for always started the session with the words " What business are you in?" Mr. Haines knew.
So I ask you. What business are you in?
I worked very hard in the first 90 days, and with the right staff, we saw an amazing change in results. I was excited. We all were. I then got the call that the big guy, the head administrator, Mr. Haines, wanted to see me. Face time with him was big. People fought for it. Remembered it. I was just a little nervous as I headed up to the office suite.
When I entered the offices, his secretary told me,"Go right in, Dick. He's waiting for you." That made me even more nervous.
Once in his office, I was startled by his appearance. He was dressed in a surgical outfit, with the mask propped up on his forehead. Sticking out from the bottom of the outfit was his wing tip shoes.
He shook my hand warmly and said, "Good to meet you, Dick. Sit down and relax."
"Excuse my appearance, Dick, but I have just had an unbelievable morning. One of our board members' daughters was rushed to the hospital this morning with a rare complication, and her life and the babies life were in question. I am close with the family, and came in with her. It was very tense. But at the critical moment, Dr. X made all the right decisions, and both her and her baby will be just fine. It was really an amazing thing. It was like a miracle. I'm still on a natural high from the experience."
Then he went on. " Dale has told me nice things about what you have done. I want you to keep up the good work. But above all, I want you never to forget what business we are in. We are in the miracle business. Yes, we are surrounded by numbers, numbers, numbers, and it seems after some long days, that numbers might be what this is all about. Really, if you ever get to the point where that is all it is about, your career is really over. We are in the miracle business!"
After shaking hands and thanking him for his time, I went back to my office. The meeting was nothing like what I had expected. His words, I have never forgotten.
Every guru, every consultant who ever came to any business I have ever worked for always started the session with the words " What business are you in?" Mr. Haines knew.
So I ask you. What business are you in?
Dreams of World Peace and Sandwich Board Signs
This has been a long week of many civic minded meetings, and last night, totally wasted, I had a vivid dream. I normally don't share this kind of thing, but it was so vivid, I will make an exception in this case.
I was a young cavalry officer in Napolean's army. It was the morning of his first major battle to, well, secure world peace, the fatherland, and root out the terrorism in the outlying territories. Anyway, I was excited. On my horse with my best uniform. Ready to go. Then the trumpets sounded. It was the stand down signal. I was perplexed. What could have happened?
It seems that at the moment of attack the powerful commanding officer had determined that before proceeding, he would request permission from the "weinershudson" or the local city council for permission to place the "burgersheinsen" or sandwich signs that the army used to direct the infantry to their proper battle positions, along the road. Few modern historians realize how important these "burgersheinsen" were to the success of the army. Very simply put, they were essential to the whole art of "manuever" which so clearly goes back to the very "Art of War" or any classic battle texts of war or business war. Anyway.
There was, unfortunately, a two pronged approval process. First, an application had to be made to the "weinershodson" or the city council. This is not to be confused with the "weinershitsen" which is the german for "outhouse." Sometimes in a dream these can get confused. In my dream, it was clearly "weinershodson," for the record. Anyway, after this application, it was sent forth to a second governemental body, the "weinershaftson." This is a very famous group of folks of the fatherland that is a very difficult translation, but roughly it means " The historic preservation committee." Sometimes there is confusion since the "shaftson" literally means " end of the world." This was so true, for in those times of spendor, and times of German pride, it was indeed the end of time when the appoval was actually granted.
Well, you might ask, what happened in the dream? Very simply---- nothing. No troops moved. No war was waged. No business was done. The world was saved from war by the simple two staged process for sign approval of those very wise fatherland leaders.
I was a young cavalry officer in Napolean's army. It was the morning of his first major battle to, well, secure world peace, the fatherland, and root out the terrorism in the outlying territories. Anyway, I was excited. On my horse with my best uniform. Ready to go. Then the trumpets sounded. It was the stand down signal. I was perplexed. What could have happened?
It seems that at the moment of attack the powerful commanding officer had determined that before proceeding, he would request permission from the "weinershudson" or the local city council for permission to place the "burgersheinsen" or sandwich signs that the army used to direct the infantry to their proper battle positions, along the road. Few modern historians realize how important these "burgersheinsen" were to the success of the army. Very simply put, they were essential to the whole art of "manuever" which so clearly goes back to the very "Art of War" or any classic battle texts of war or business war. Anyway.
There was, unfortunately, a two pronged approval process. First, an application had to be made to the "weinershodson" or the city council. This is not to be confused with the "weinershitsen" which is the german for "outhouse." Sometimes in a dream these can get confused. In my dream, it was clearly "weinershodson," for the record. Anyway, after this application, it was sent forth to a second governemental body, the "weinershaftson." This is a very famous group of folks of the fatherland that is a very difficult translation, but roughly it means " The historic preservation committee." Sometimes there is confusion since the "shaftson" literally means " end of the world." This was so true, for in those times of spendor, and times of German pride, it was indeed the end of time when the appoval was actually granted.
Well, you might ask, what happened in the dream? Very simply---- nothing. No troops moved. No war was waged. No business was done. The world was saved from war by the simple two staged process for sign approval of those very wise fatherland leaders.
The Saxophone and The Sunglasses
Some of you have kindly written wondering where my old dark blue 1989 Lincoln Towncar is. Well, it is still running. My oldest daughter, who always dreamed of owning a Honda is driving the Lincoln "ghetto cruiser" and fitting it into the parking spots in Madison designed for a Honda. Anyway, recently, I got to sit in the car and think of the good old days, and I flipped down the visor and tons of Cd's fell in my lap. Quickly, I inserted some in the CD player, desperately looking for some rock and roll. No, they were all Blues, Jazz and hip hop. Worse, most were in Italian. " When did this all begin?" I mused. Then I remembered about the Saxophone and the Sunglasses.
One Sunday night when my oldest was a sophmore at EHS, I overheard a stressful discussion in the kitchen, and as I usually did, I walked right into it. " What's the problem," I asked. " Well," she replied, " tomorrow is the first Jazz Band practice." "So, what?" I ventured. "Well," " I don't have a saxophone and don't know how to play it since I play flute."
" Just ask Mr. Z," I said, "and if he says you can play sax, I will go get the sax at Ward Brodt. Call me at lunch and leave me a message. On monday, there was a short, breathless message on the recorder. " Go get the sax!"
That afternoon both girls came home from school and were giggling and excited. I had to ask, " Well what happened?" "Oh," the oldest said, Mr. Z said to come tonight and just fake it and then gradually play what I felt comfortable with." It's going to be no problem, I can fake it fine."
What followed was the most intense three weeks of learning ever in our home. Scales, swearing, broken reeds, trips to the music store for riff books, arguments about why it is important to stop playing at midnight so the old folks can sleep. After three weeks of almost no sleep for us, the playing sounded pretty darn good. She said, " Well, I need to go to Janesville!" " What ever for?" I asked. "The Sunglasses", she replied. I did understand. If you play the sax, you need the approved style of sunglasses.
As I sat in the old blue Lincoln with the lap full of jazz cds, I thought of what had happened because of that one open door, that one moment when a musical passion had been ignited because the maestro had opened the door to a lifelong obsession.
If you do make a contribution to the instrument fund at EHS,( EHS musical inst fund, attn Mr. Z) you might consider that it is not the instrument you are giving, but the entrance ticket for a lifelong passion for music. If you were present at the "Good Question" gig at "Real Coffee" recently, you got an idea of how much fun this can be.
One Sunday night when my oldest was a sophmore at EHS, I overheard a stressful discussion in the kitchen, and as I usually did, I walked right into it. " What's the problem," I asked. " Well," she replied, " tomorrow is the first Jazz Band practice." "So, what?" I ventured. "Well," " I don't have a saxophone and don't know how to play it since I play flute."
" Just ask Mr. Z," I said, "and if he says you can play sax, I will go get the sax at Ward Brodt. Call me at lunch and leave me a message. On monday, there was a short, breathless message on the recorder. " Go get the sax!"
That afternoon both girls came home from school and were giggling and excited. I had to ask, " Well what happened?" "Oh," the oldest said, Mr. Z said to come tonight and just fake it and then gradually play what I felt comfortable with." It's going to be no problem, I can fake it fine."
What followed was the most intense three weeks of learning ever in our home. Scales, swearing, broken reeds, trips to the music store for riff books, arguments about why it is important to stop playing at midnight so the old folks can sleep. After three weeks of almost no sleep for us, the playing sounded pretty darn good. She said, " Well, I need to go to Janesville!" " What ever for?" I asked. "The Sunglasses", she replied. I did understand. If you play the sax, you need the approved style of sunglasses.
As I sat in the old blue Lincoln with the lap full of jazz cds, I thought of what had happened because of that one open door, that one moment when a musical passion had been ignited because the maestro had opened the door to a lifelong obsession.
If you do make a contribution to the instrument fund at EHS,( EHS musical inst fund, attn Mr. Z) you might consider that it is not the instrument you are giving, but the entrance ticket for a lifelong passion for music. If you were present at the "Good Question" gig at "Real Coffee" recently, you got an idea of how much fun this can be.
Reflections on the Growth Bicycle; Or When you Walk, Walk. When you Run, Run. Don't Wobble.
Last week was a major week for Evansville, with the public financing of two bond issues, one for water and light infrastructure and the rest for other public improvements. All around town things are being torn up and changed. It's little late to go back to no growth.
I have always had a fondness for Zen sayings such as the title of this post. It may have been due to one afternoon when just after I had a Chinese fortune cookie that said " Not now, but soon," I got laid off, but whatever, I have always loved the Zen sayings.
Evansville is on a growth bicycle. The Wisconsin Journal has an interesting opinion piece in Sundays edition explaining why now, more than ever, GROWTH is the key to municipalities avoiding higher taxes or lower public services, or both. Because of the property tax freeze, it is essentially either grow or die.
The surge of energy due to the new Evansville High School has given Evansville the boost to get on the growth bicycle. Now the trick is to stay on it. Not wobble. Not be confused. The trick is to get quality growth and keep the formula of affordable family living in a friendly small town setting.
The debate has been not whether to grow, but how and where and at what pace. Residents may vigorously differ on those issues and have on this site. The danger it seems to me is from those who do not want to talk about it. Those who maybe would rather be surprised down the road by a huge tax bill due to poor planning of pace of residential growth.
As Mr Connors noted at the Finance committee meeting last week, yes we are bumping up against our levy limit for valuation now, but once the new valuation comes on the tax rolls for new construction, Evansville will be fine. The other way of stating that is that without growth, we would not be fine.
So, let's think of growth as a bicycle. It is important to talk about the pace and skill of the rider. Let's just hope we can keep a level of growth that will avoid the peril of wobbling. Wobbling would be the state estimate of Evansville population growth.
Click on the post for the Wisconsin Journal op ed piece. What are your thoughts on the growth bicycle?
I have always had a fondness for Zen sayings such as the title of this post. It may have been due to one afternoon when just after I had a Chinese fortune cookie that said " Not now, but soon," I got laid off, but whatever, I have always loved the Zen sayings.
Evansville is on a growth bicycle. The Wisconsin Journal has an interesting opinion piece in Sundays edition explaining why now, more than ever, GROWTH is the key to municipalities avoiding higher taxes or lower public services, or both. Because of the property tax freeze, it is essentially either grow or die.
The surge of energy due to the new Evansville High School has given Evansville the boost to get on the growth bicycle. Now the trick is to stay on it. Not wobble. Not be confused. The trick is to get quality growth and keep the formula of affordable family living in a friendly small town setting.
The debate has been not whether to grow, but how and where and at what pace. Residents may vigorously differ on those issues and have on this site. The danger it seems to me is from those who do not want to talk about it. Those who maybe would rather be surprised down the road by a huge tax bill due to poor planning of pace of residential growth.
As Mr Connors noted at the Finance committee meeting last week, yes we are bumping up against our levy limit for valuation now, but once the new valuation comes on the tax rolls for new construction, Evansville will be fine. The other way of stating that is that without growth, we would not be fine.
So, let's think of growth as a bicycle. It is important to talk about the pace and skill of the rider. Let's just hope we can keep a level of growth that will avoid the peril of wobbling. Wobbling would be the state estimate of Evansville population growth.
Click on the post for the Wisconsin Journal op ed piece. What are your thoughts on the growth bicycle?
The tale of two George's; On why the Rove affair may surpass Watergate
In 1776, the army of George Washington was outside Boston and suffering from inaction, and was a various assembly of ragtag volunteers that were scheduled to have their enlistments expire shortly. Washington felt compelled to take some action. Bold action. He called for a meeting of his Council of War, as Congress had required him to do before action.
George Washington met his council and pitched them on an all out amphibious assault on Boston by sending troops across the shallow Back Bay in flat bottomed boats. Winter was coming and the time for action was now! There were no barracks for the troops and no firewood! They had to attack! There was no other choice!(1776, p53)
The council listened. And said unanimously---NO.
George listened and accepted their judgement without retailiation. That response saved the revolutionary army from certain destruction.
Flip forward in time. Another George. Another war. George finds out that there is no basis for the assertion that Saddam Hussein has been trying to buy uranium from Africa. George finds out that there is no basis for the "16 words" in the State of the Union address that seemed to say invading Iraq was necessary to save us from WMD.
The sequence of rigging the intelligence, destroying those who differed with the administration truth, beginning the war, then blaming the gatherers of intelligence, them taking the fall, and proceeding as if nothing happened is stunning for The Observer.
Click the post for an article by Tom Engelhardt that connects all the dots. What do you think of the Rove affair. Outing a CIA operative used to be considered treason. Still is. Why has Rove not been dismissed?
George Washington met his council and pitched them on an all out amphibious assault on Boston by sending troops across the shallow Back Bay in flat bottomed boats. Winter was coming and the time for action was now! There were no barracks for the troops and no firewood! They had to attack! There was no other choice!(1776, p53)
The council listened. And said unanimously---NO.
George listened and accepted their judgement without retailiation. That response saved the revolutionary army from certain destruction.
Flip forward in time. Another George. Another war. George finds out that there is no basis for the assertion that Saddam Hussein has been trying to buy uranium from Africa. George finds out that there is no basis for the "16 words" in the State of the Union address that seemed to say invading Iraq was necessary to save us from WMD.
The sequence of rigging the intelligence, destroying those who differed with the administration truth, beginning the war, then blaming the gatherers of intelligence, them taking the fall, and proceeding as if nothing happened is stunning for The Observer.
Click the post for an article by Tom Engelhardt that connects all the dots. What do you think of the Rove affair. Outing a CIA operative used to be considered treason. Still is. Why has Rove not been dismissed?
Uncommon grief, Uncommon Courage; Or, What the real Top Gun School looks like; OR where I was last weekend.
I have been stopped everywhere lately by bloggers wondering whether I was "slacking" on the job Friday, Saturday and Sunday, because there were no posts. Normally, I don't go reverse chain of command, but I will respond to my blogger commanders. I was on the job observing the Twin City Marathon in St. Paul. First a little background.
My best friend in college was Mike Wraneshay. We had met in high school physics class where he handled the experiments and I wrote the reports. It was a pattern to follow always. In his senior year of high school, his dad, a superstar salesman, died suddenly of a heart attack. Mike then moved into the Midway area of St. Paul to live with his grandparents, and close to my family home, on Dayton Ave, almost identical to my current home on East Main, except there were historic lights on both sides of the street. When he graduated from college he became a Navy officer. His love was photography. I learned later that he was in Navy intelligence.
On completion of his Navy stint, he went into the Navy Reserve. One of the requirements of the Navy reserve was that everyone had to complete the 5 mile run and pass the eye test. Each year, both became more difficult. One August, when he was 40, I got the call. He had died suddenly after completing the 5 mile run. He left a wife and two small children. His friends and family were devasted. Navy pilots from all across the country, almost 100 of them, came to the funeral at Ft. Snelling.
A month ago, Mike's mom announced that Matthew, his son, was running the Twin City Marathon. Laverne was now 82 and she and a friend were going to the 22 mile mark to cheer him on. I explained that this was the "wall" and it might not be pretty. I felt I needed to go to be there with them.
I knew that Mike had died of an unusual clotting disorder. I hoped that Matt had gotten new medication that they had developed over the last 35 years. I dared not ask.
As I watched the runners at the 22 mile mark my mind went back to the last time I spent a week with Mike. It was the time I flew to Pensacola to drive with him home and tour the facility. It was a special weekend. The pilots were competing to see who would go to Top Gun school. It was a scene right out of the movie Top Gun. Except there were no female flight instructors. There were a lot of guys that looked like Tom Cruise.
Then Matt appeared at the 22 mile mark. We had a sign that said, "Hey, Hey, Wraneshay" . I gave him the ice and facecloth. Told him he was good to go and looked great. He did.
I wondered all the way home, how in the face of adversity and grief, Matt could gather the courage to run the marathon, or rather whether he had to run in order to conquer the fear. In any event, the words of the flight instructor in Top Gun came to me, "Up here, we have to push it. " Somehow he, and many others who have faced huge grief have found the courage to thrive beyond the grief. I salute Matt and all the others like him. For me, that is what Top Gun is all about.
When he had left, his grandmother, Luverne just smiled. "Well," she said, " You did good with the sign, Dick." "Let's just save it for next year and change the bib number."
My best friend in college was Mike Wraneshay. We had met in high school physics class where he handled the experiments and I wrote the reports. It was a pattern to follow always. In his senior year of high school, his dad, a superstar salesman, died suddenly of a heart attack. Mike then moved into the Midway area of St. Paul to live with his grandparents, and close to my family home, on Dayton Ave, almost identical to my current home on East Main, except there were historic lights on both sides of the street. When he graduated from college he became a Navy officer. His love was photography. I learned later that he was in Navy intelligence.
On completion of his Navy stint, he went into the Navy Reserve. One of the requirements of the Navy reserve was that everyone had to complete the 5 mile run and pass the eye test. Each year, both became more difficult. One August, when he was 40, I got the call. He had died suddenly after completing the 5 mile run. He left a wife and two small children. His friends and family were devasted. Navy pilots from all across the country, almost 100 of them, came to the funeral at Ft. Snelling.
A month ago, Mike's mom announced that Matthew, his son, was running the Twin City Marathon. Laverne was now 82 and she and a friend were going to the 22 mile mark to cheer him on. I explained that this was the "wall" and it might not be pretty. I felt I needed to go to be there with them.
I knew that Mike had died of an unusual clotting disorder. I hoped that Matt had gotten new medication that they had developed over the last 35 years. I dared not ask.
As I watched the runners at the 22 mile mark my mind went back to the last time I spent a week with Mike. It was the time I flew to Pensacola to drive with him home and tour the facility. It was a special weekend. The pilots were competing to see who would go to Top Gun school. It was a scene right out of the movie Top Gun. Except there were no female flight instructors. There were a lot of guys that looked like Tom Cruise.
Then Matt appeared at the 22 mile mark. We had a sign that said, "Hey, Hey, Wraneshay" . I gave him the ice and facecloth. Told him he was good to go and looked great. He did.
I wondered all the way home, how in the face of adversity and grief, Matt could gather the courage to run the marathon, or rather whether he had to run in order to conquer the fear. In any event, the words of the flight instructor in Top Gun came to me, "Up here, we have to push it. " Somehow he, and many others who have faced huge grief have found the courage to thrive beyond the grief. I salute Matt and all the others like him. For me, that is what Top Gun is all about.
When he had left, his grandmother, Luverne just smiled. "Well," she said, " You did good with the sign, Dick." "Let's just save it for next year and change the bib number."
---------------------X19------------------------
As an Evansville regular of the library, you may notice the silver Honda with the license plate, X19, each morning and you may notice an older gentleman in a burgundy french beret cap. Like clockwork, he enters the library and approaches the circulation department each morn----- "Good morning ladies." " How is everyone this fine morning." "We're just fine, Don How are you this morning? You are a little late."..........
Evansville's X19 has a long history as a WWII veteran and a car dealer in Evansville. .....
During WWII, on the island of Okinawa, X19 served first as a PX manager, and later when the military learned about his ability to take and develop film, as a forward observer. Located very close to the Japanese lines, his job was to telephone, and quickly, the adjustments for Allied artillery. Avoiding detection was survival. This was the third of his landings. First there was Kiska, then Saipai.. The next one, the one he already had his number for, was the landing on Japan. " We were all dead, and we knew it, he said. " We knew the reputation of the resistance in Japan, that all those on the Japan landings would be history."
After the A-bomb, and the end of the war, X19 returned home to Evansville. There was a long tradition in the automobile business in the family. His step- grandfather had been the first Ford dealer in the State of Wisconsin. His father was the sales manager of the Ford dealership in Evansville, located where the roller rink is now today. X19 began to work in the Evansville dealership. After X19's son returned from the Vietnam war, they got to chatting one afternoon about the car business. The son said he really didn't like the business. X19 said, " Well, that make's two of us. I have been frustrated with it for years and only kept it for you. In fact, Ford had a v8 in 1937 with 60 and 85 HP that got 35mpg, but preferred the big, gas guzzlers that were unreliable. I have never forgiven them for that. It was a big mistake. Let's sell the business." And he did. He is now on his 5th Honda.
When he sold the dealership number 19, he changed his license to X19. He got the idea from the governor of Wisconsin, who had number 1 on his license plate, and then when he left office, took the number X1.
In the years since, X19 has served 30 years on the library board, as well as 30 years on the Board of Review.
I have mentioned in an earlier post on "How to sculpt a David," that the key to creating things is knowing what one does NOT want to become. Carving out the unwanted really defines a person. What caused the gift of length of years Don has been given?--87 1/2. It is all right there on the license plate...... X19.
As you enter the library this halloween, you might sense the spirit of X19, the spirit of Don Thompson. His spirit of service lives.
Evansville's X19 has a long history as a WWII veteran and a car dealer in Evansville. .....
During WWII, on the island of Okinawa, X19 served first as a PX manager, and later when the military learned about his ability to take and develop film, as a forward observer. Located very close to the Japanese lines, his job was to telephone, and quickly, the adjustments for Allied artillery. Avoiding detection was survival. This was the third of his landings. First there was Kiska, then Saipai.. The next one, the one he already had his number for, was the landing on Japan. " We were all dead, and we knew it, he said. " We knew the reputation of the resistance in Japan, that all those on the Japan landings would be history."
After the A-bomb, and the end of the war, X19 returned home to Evansville. There was a long tradition in the automobile business in the family. His step- grandfather had been the first Ford dealer in the State of Wisconsin. His father was the sales manager of the Ford dealership in Evansville, located where the roller rink is now today. X19 began to work in the Evansville dealership. After X19's son returned from the Vietnam war, they got to chatting one afternoon about the car business. The son said he really didn't like the business. X19 said, " Well, that make's two of us. I have been frustrated with it for years and only kept it for you. In fact, Ford had a v8 in 1937 with 60 and 85 HP that got 35mpg, but preferred the big, gas guzzlers that were unreliable. I have never forgiven them for that. It was a big mistake. Let's sell the business." And he did. He is now on his 5th Honda.
When he sold the dealership number 19, he changed his license to X19. He got the idea from the governor of Wisconsin, who had number 1 on his license plate, and then when he left office, took the number X1.
In the years since, X19 has served 30 years on the library board, as well as 30 years on the Board of Review.
I have mentioned in an earlier post on "How to sculpt a David," that the key to creating things is knowing what one does NOT want to become. Carving out the unwanted really defines a person. What caused the gift of length of years Don has been given?--87 1/2. It is all right there on the license plate...... X19.
As you enter the library this halloween, you might sense the spirit of X19, the spirit of Don Thompson. His spirit of service lives.
"Where Does your fist go when you open your hand"; Or, a short review of words vs. what we really mean
One of my favorite Zen sayings is " Where does your fist go when you open your hand?" This always provoked a long discussion from my kids and usually ended by them asking if I could please refrain from any more mind teasers.
Yet, there really is a difference between words, common words, and the thing itself. Take one of the big ones, for example, the word "freedom." We thank the stars each day that we are "free," free to speak, and free to act legally for our own benefit without retribution.
We thank the stars that we have a "free" press, even though some may feel unfree about voicing an opinion in writing or in public. Hence, some may always ask others what is the appropriate thing to think, if the right and proper view is not obvious. To have a "free" press that is not paid for is somehow upsetting.
"Independence" is another biggie. If one did not have an independent press, how independent could a people be? Being from the heartland, many pride themselves with their independence. I wonder what they mean by the word. If not able to express an independent view, how independent could they be?
Maybe the fist and the hand are really the same here. Maybe there is really nothing "free" or "independent" about it. You make the call.
Yet, there really is a difference between words, common words, and the thing itself. Take one of the big ones, for example, the word "freedom." We thank the stars each day that we are "free," free to speak, and free to act legally for our own benefit without retribution.
We thank the stars that we have a "free" press, even though some may feel unfree about voicing an opinion in writing or in public. Hence, some may always ask others what is the appropriate thing to think, if the right and proper view is not obvious. To have a "free" press that is not paid for is somehow upsetting.
"Independence" is another biggie. If one did not have an independent press, how independent could a people be? Being from the heartland, many pride themselves with their independence. I wonder what they mean by the word. If not able to express an independent view, how independent could they be?
Maybe the fist and the hand are really the same here. Maybe there is really nothing "free" or "independent" about it. You make the call.
The Tipping Point; or Where is Harry Truman when we need him?
Recently there has been a lot of talk about the "Tipping Point" or the moment or event, whether large or small, that things change. On PBS News Hour on Friday last, David Brooks went into a long and interesting presentation on why Katrina was a tipping point, and not only that, but listed a long series of natural events that have as a result created a political earthquake. Click on the post to get the story as well as the real audio.
Specifically, he mentioned the occasion in Louisiana of a very big storm when the governer had to decide to flood some homes to save the capital. He pledged to pay for the homes and rebuild. He lied. Out of the outrage of that incident came the rise of Huey Long. The Kingfish. The fictional rendition of Huey Long is dramatized in the novel "All the King's Men," by Robert Penn Warren. One of my favorites.
If you can dust off your old copy of "All the King's Men," the opening two pages are pretty dramatic. It begins with the view from inside a limo driving in the night in Louisiana, with the headlights peering out, rolling through the night, with the powerful limo squashing all the critters that venture out on the roadway, rolling along cushioned from the reality of the ebb and flow of the real world below. It's been thirty years, and the picture is still vivid in my memory.
It is kind of sad and ironic that leaders like the Kingfish rise to power by working on the alienation of the people from their leaders and in the end, fall as a result of that same alienation.
The image of President Bush at 50,000 ft. reviewing the destruction of Katrina may also be a powerful image that may provoke a powerful political change. We shall see. Political patronage or Pork, may be a condemned routinely, in highway projects and in many areas of life, but when it permeates the survival of the country, or Homeland Security, we are in deep trouble. Thus, when asked recently whether the US can withstand another disaster or attack at this time, even President Bush hesitated and said "That's a good question."
President Harry Truman rose to fame at the end of WWII investigating the corruption of war profiteers. It would be nice if we a had him now. He could come by on one of his train trips, come through Evansville, cause I would be the first to yell, "Give em hell, Harry."
"The Tipping Point" or "How LIttle Things Can Make a Big Difference" is written by Malcolm Gladwell and is available at the Eager Free Public Library.
Specifically, he mentioned the occasion in Louisiana of a very big storm when the governer had to decide to flood some homes to save the capital. He pledged to pay for the homes and rebuild. He lied. Out of the outrage of that incident came the rise of Huey Long. The Kingfish. The fictional rendition of Huey Long is dramatized in the novel "All the King's Men," by Robert Penn Warren. One of my favorites.
If you can dust off your old copy of "All the King's Men," the opening two pages are pretty dramatic. It begins with the view from inside a limo driving in the night in Louisiana, with the headlights peering out, rolling through the night, with the powerful limo squashing all the critters that venture out on the roadway, rolling along cushioned from the reality of the ebb and flow of the real world below. It's been thirty years, and the picture is still vivid in my memory.
It is kind of sad and ironic that leaders like the Kingfish rise to power by working on the alienation of the people from their leaders and in the end, fall as a result of that same alienation.
The image of President Bush at 50,000 ft. reviewing the destruction of Katrina may also be a powerful image that may provoke a powerful political change. We shall see. Political patronage or Pork, may be a condemned routinely, in highway projects and in many areas of life, but when it permeates the survival of the country, or Homeland Security, we are in deep trouble. Thus, when asked recently whether the US can withstand another disaster or attack at this time, even President Bush hesitated and said "That's a good question."
President Harry Truman rose to fame at the end of WWII investigating the corruption of war profiteers. It would be nice if we a had him now. He could come by on one of his train trips, come through Evansville, cause I would be the first to yell, "Give em hell, Harry."
"The Tipping Point" or "How LIttle Things Can Make a Big Difference" is written by Malcolm Gladwell and is available at the Eager Free Public Library.
Memories of John Jones: Or why the equipment does not make the muscles;On why laws don't make freedom of speech or assembly--people do
Many of you may remember John Jones, the owner of Jones Barbells on Union Street. He was an avid flyer, a flight instructor and a weight lifter known nationally by his plane with the Jones Barbell logo on it. He was the son of a World War II ace pilot.
There are many John Jones stories. He was a very simple and direct and honest person. Sometimes disturbingly so for high and mighty types. John was most at home in his welding overalls with the top glass shield that he retracted, like Dark Helmet, when he came from the back welding area to help a customer. He loved welding, and selling was just extra.
Back in 1990 I wandered into the shop to see his weight equipment and explained to the big guy that I had been a long distance runner in my youth, and a slow one at that, but needed to regain my leg strength. He said not a word. He just waved me to follow him back to the leg press section of the display room. He showed me his patented leg press machine, the one that had the special safety and he designed to prevent back injuries. I was an easy sale.
As I cleared out my storage chest recently of the many race t-shirts over the years, I had to smile. John never said that my dream of running again was crazy, like most of the relatives. He just showed me what was necessary.
Everything was on a handshake with John. His word was good. I would buy everything he had eventually. Finally, when I asked about some new piece, he quietly said, "Dick, you just need to use what you have. It's up to you, not the equipment."
That was just what I needed to hear then.
To those of you that attended the recent peace vigil, I applaud your showing up to express your opinion by free assembly. To those who take the other side, I applaud your right to express it.
The question is not for those who show up. The question I have is ----Who is the real Observer. Is it me? I think not. I have to write a bit each day with my name on it. The observers are those who just log on to observe what the rest are talking about. I know because I get the traffic reports.
John Jones told me something that I did not want to hear. The equipment was not going to get the muscles. It was up to me.
To those who are just observing, think about expressing yourself without fear. Think
about telling a friend about The Evansville Observer. The Observer is not about me. It is really about the comments. It's about the discussion. The Observer is just a place to talk. A place to chat about possiblities. It is only going to be what you, the observers, make it.
There are many John Jones stories. He was a very simple and direct and honest person. Sometimes disturbingly so for high and mighty types. John was most at home in his welding overalls with the top glass shield that he retracted, like Dark Helmet, when he came from the back welding area to help a customer. He loved welding, and selling was just extra.
Back in 1990 I wandered into the shop to see his weight equipment and explained to the big guy that I had been a long distance runner in my youth, and a slow one at that, but needed to regain my leg strength. He said not a word. He just waved me to follow him back to the leg press section of the display room. He showed me his patented leg press machine, the one that had the special safety and he designed to prevent back injuries. I was an easy sale.
As I cleared out my storage chest recently of the many race t-shirts over the years, I had to smile. John never said that my dream of running again was crazy, like most of the relatives. He just showed me what was necessary.
Everything was on a handshake with John. His word was good. I would buy everything he had eventually. Finally, when I asked about some new piece, he quietly said, "Dick, you just need to use what you have. It's up to you, not the equipment."
That was just what I needed to hear then.
To those of you that attended the recent peace vigil, I applaud your showing up to express your opinion by free assembly. To those who take the other side, I applaud your right to express it.
The question is not for those who show up. The question I have is ----Who is the real Observer. Is it me? I think not. I have to write a bit each day with my name on it. The observers are those who just log on to observe what the rest are talking about. I know because I get the traffic reports.
John Jones told me something that I did not want to hear. The equipment was not going to get the muscles. It was up to me.
To those who are just observing, think about expressing yourself without fear. Think
about telling a friend about The Evansville Observer. The Observer is not about me. It is really about the comments. It's about the discussion. The Observer is just a place to talk. A place to chat about possiblities. It is only going to be what you, the observers, make it.
The Odds of Being Right and other Mysteries
Some years ago, I worked as a registered representative for E.F. Hutton, in the Madison office. Yes, it was always reassuring to work for a company that had as its slogan, " When E.F. Hutton speaks, people listen."
In this office were competitive and hard working brokers. In fact, overworking brokers. It was hard not thinking of the business 24 hours a day. Mornings began about 7:30am with the telephone report from New York and ended after dinners of pizza, pizza and pizza, and cold calling new prospective clients about investment ideas.
There was one exception to all the brokers. His name was Bruce. Bruce came in when he pleased. He drove a BMW. He had a beautiful wife. He met his clients like a physician would a patient. Sometimes he would not come in to work at all! And when he did come back he would be all tan and tell us of a wonderful trip. He seemed very relaxed all the time. He seemed able to laugh at things that all of us did not think were too funny. All of the other brokers were not pleased with Bruce. It seemed totally unfair.
At this time, I had two young daughters, 5yr. and 3yr, and was working about 60 hrs a week and it occurred to me that Bruce knew something that I did not. So, one day I went in and simply asked him, " Bruce, how do you do it. I just don't understand?"
He smiled and said, " Well, you must understand that everyone here is very bright and has good ideas. But even so, if you honestly plot your ideas and hold the record for a month, you will discover that you will be right only 50% of the time. Try it and you will see. Being bright is not enough. My secret is that I plan on being wrong and use options to prepare for it. He then proceeded to show me on a $1,000,000 investment for his clients how he had protected the investment from the possiblity that he could be wrong. Then he smiled and laughed.
I have never forgot the lesson that Bruce taught me, nor the BMW, the model wife and the style of work that Bruce enjoyed. The crash of 1987 came. Bruce did just fine. His clients were protected. He went on to be a very successful mutual fund manager.
I tell this story for those on the comment line. The good news is that we keep the comments online for review for a year. The bad news is that we keep the comments online for a year.
E.F. Hutton thought it knew so much. In a heartbeat when the market plunged 500 points it was over. Instantly. On the phone from New York, senior staff were urging brokers not to jump from windows, but to get some perspective on what they valued in life. I was in Madison. On the first floor. No place to jump.
As you comment on the blog calculate the possiblity that you might be right? Might be wrong? What are the odds? Is it better than Babe Ruth? Is it better than 50%. Plan accordingly.
In this office were competitive and hard working brokers. In fact, overworking brokers. It was hard not thinking of the business 24 hours a day. Mornings began about 7:30am with the telephone report from New York and ended after dinners of pizza, pizza and pizza, and cold calling new prospective clients about investment ideas.
There was one exception to all the brokers. His name was Bruce. Bruce came in when he pleased. He drove a BMW. He had a beautiful wife. He met his clients like a physician would a patient. Sometimes he would not come in to work at all! And when he did come back he would be all tan and tell us of a wonderful trip. He seemed very relaxed all the time. He seemed able to laugh at things that all of us did not think were too funny. All of the other brokers were not pleased with Bruce. It seemed totally unfair.
At this time, I had two young daughters, 5yr. and 3yr, and was working about 60 hrs a week and it occurred to me that Bruce knew something that I did not. So, one day I went in and simply asked him, " Bruce, how do you do it. I just don't understand?"
He smiled and said, " Well, you must understand that everyone here is very bright and has good ideas. But even so, if you honestly plot your ideas and hold the record for a month, you will discover that you will be right only 50% of the time. Try it and you will see. Being bright is not enough. My secret is that I plan on being wrong and use options to prepare for it. He then proceeded to show me on a $1,000,000 investment for his clients how he had protected the investment from the possiblity that he could be wrong. Then he smiled and laughed.
I have never forgot the lesson that Bruce taught me, nor the BMW, the model wife and the style of work that Bruce enjoyed. The crash of 1987 came. Bruce did just fine. His clients were protected. He went on to be a very successful mutual fund manager.
I tell this story for those on the comment line. The good news is that we keep the comments online for review for a year. The bad news is that we keep the comments online for a year.
E.F. Hutton thought it knew so much. In a heartbeat when the market plunged 500 points it was over. Instantly. On the phone from New York, senior staff were urging brokers not to jump from windows, but to get some perspective on what they valued in life. I was in Madison. On the first floor. No place to jump.
As you comment on the blog calculate the possiblity that you might be right? Might be wrong? What are the odds? Is it better than Babe Ruth? Is it better than 50%. Plan accordingly.
The Best of the Evansville Observer 2005: Volume I: The Battle of Ideas
Prologue:
........." But I believe the war on terror will not be won by the army. It will be won by the force of ideas. And one of the original points of the original post was that the blue states seem to be a little more comfortable with ideas....The US military can and has made us a great power, but it can never make us a great people.
"wxman,"
Dedication:
I have compiled this sample of The Evansville Observer, Volume I, The Battle of Ideas, not because this battle has been finished, but rather because I think it important to remember how it began. It began with citizens and city officials being willing to debate public issues openly. What progress has been made I will leave others to decide. However, the determination of citizens to participate in their government is quite clear. I am grateful to those bloggers, city officials, and yes even anonymous observers who have logged on the The Observer to see what Evansville is talking about.
I am grateful to my editor, spouse, and patron, "Yodamom", whose advice has been key to this work. I also am grateful to my mother-in-law Alyce who printed out the blog each day to read to her husband as a night time treat. Now that is support. Thanks, Alyce.
Volume II of The Best of the Evansville Observer 2005 is titled, "A Woulfe's Tale" and features the stories.
Richard Woulfe
Evansville Observer
November 2005
Evansville, Wi. 53536
........." But I believe the war on terror will not be won by the army. It will be won by the force of ideas. And one of the original points of the original post was that the blue states seem to be a little more comfortable with ideas....The US military can and has made us a great power, but it can never make us a great people.
"wxman,"
Dedication:
I have compiled this sample of The Evansville Observer, Volume I, The Battle of Ideas, not because this battle has been finished, but rather because I think it important to remember how it began. It began with citizens and city officials being willing to debate public issues openly. What progress has been made I will leave others to decide. However, the determination of citizens to participate in their government is quite clear. I am grateful to those bloggers, city officials, and yes even anonymous observers who have logged on the The Observer to see what Evansville is talking about.
I am grateful to my editor, spouse, and patron, "Yodamom", whose advice has been key to this work. I also am grateful to my mother-in-law Alyce who printed out the blog each day to read to her husband as a night time treat. Now that is support. Thanks, Alyce.
Volume II of The Best of the Evansville Observer 2005 is titled, "A Woulfe's Tale" and features the stories.
Richard Woulfe
Evansville Observer
November 2005
Evansville, Wi. 53536
Why the theory of the Frozen Tundra failed; Or, the $780 Million Dollar love cruise; Or, where is Garrison Keilor when we need him?
Because The Observer is a native Minnesotan who grew up on the sailboat lake, White Bear Lake, and married the girl from the powerboat lake, Lake Minnetonka, I believe I am in a perfect position to explain the problem that the recent love boat cruise or "team building" outing of the Minnesota Vikings presents to local Minnesota voters.
The "Theory of the Frozen Tundra," a rare and lost text, explains that true virtue is inversely proportional to weather. The colder it is, the more Satan and all his pomps is destroyed. Time and time again in my youth it was instilled in me that the below zero weather of Minnesota was good for me. It caused wandering souls to come home early. It caused those with loose morals not to come to Minnesota in the first place. In summary, cold weather plus high taxes equal high virtue. This was the land of Lake Wobegon. Garrison Keillor country. Where all the folks were bright--------- and all schools had seven valedictorians. Anyway. Thus, my mother in law can tease me that my sketches are from Lake Woe--begotten. True Virtue is Lake Wobegon or Viking country, and Packerland is Lake Woe--begotten. You catch the ideology.
Thus the love boat scandal of the Minnesota Vikings comes as quite a blow to the citizens of the frozen tundra. What went wrong?
Click on the post for the view of Tom Powers. He feels that only if all the Viking sinners are purged and the righteous Viking reserves are elevated to starting positions will peace be restored in Minnesota. That would certainly be nice for the Packers on Christmas Eve.
It seems to the Observer that all sports, music, and all arts, are "divertido" in Spanish or "diversion" in English. It seems that since the realities of life....war..social discord...economic struggle...loss... are so difficult that we are completely dependent on diversion to numb the pain. Thus, a college student cannot walk from class to class without an ipod or a cell phone in the ear. Not possible to interact..Must block it..thank you. So.. it seems to me we have placed too high a burden on football to deliver us from the anguish. Who wants to deal with Wisconsin if the Packers lose? Not me. Yes there is hope if the Badgers win, but if both lose...God forbid.
In short, we need a new balance. Maybe a new diversion. Maybe tango dancing. We cannot keep relying on football for the Total Deliverance.
The "Theory of the Frozen Tundra," a rare and lost text, explains that true virtue is inversely proportional to weather. The colder it is, the more Satan and all his pomps is destroyed. Time and time again in my youth it was instilled in me that the below zero weather of Minnesota was good for me. It caused wandering souls to come home early. It caused those with loose morals not to come to Minnesota in the first place. In summary, cold weather plus high taxes equal high virtue. This was the land of Lake Wobegon. Garrison Keillor country. Where all the folks were bright--------- and all schools had seven valedictorians. Anyway. Thus, my mother in law can tease me that my sketches are from Lake Woe--begotten. True Virtue is Lake Wobegon or Viking country, and Packerland is Lake Woe--begotten. You catch the ideology.
Thus the love boat scandal of the Minnesota Vikings comes as quite a blow to the citizens of the frozen tundra. What went wrong?
Click on the post for the view of Tom Powers. He feels that only if all the Viking sinners are purged and the righteous Viking reserves are elevated to starting positions will peace be restored in Minnesota. That would certainly be nice for the Packers on Christmas Eve.
It seems to the Observer that all sports, music, and all arts, are "divertido" in Spanish or "diversion" in English. It seems that since the realities of life....war..social discord...economic struggle...loss... are so difficult that we are completely dependent on diversion to numb the pain. Thus, a college student cannot walk from class to class without an ipod or a cell phone in the ear. Not possible to interact..Must block it..thank you. So.. it seems to me we have placed too high a burden on football to deliver us from the anguish. Who wants to deal with Wisconsin if the Packers lose? Not me. Yes there is hope if the Badgers win, but if both lose...God forbid.
In short, we need a new balance. Maybe a new diversion. Maybe tango dancing. We cannot keep relying on football for the Total Deliverance.
Falling off the Bicycle--a true story; Reflections on the Evansville growth bicycle
For over a decade, my wife and I annually receive a brochure from UW Plattville about the European bike tour, that features a 10 day bike ride---Usually there are three different countries to choose from.
As far as dreams go, this one has been on the back burner. Now that two of the kids have finished college, however, we are facing a dream crisis of sorts---the bike trip requires being fit enough to bike 50 miles a day for a week. Yes, I did do the 56 mile Sugar River Trail roundtrip some years ago, but did take a week off afterwords. We do need to get the dream in our lifetime, so....
The other night we both went out to begin training again. I wore my yellow "Lance Armstrong" t-shirt just for the occasion. About the 5 mile mark, I got a little thirsty and noticed that my wife had forgotten her water bottle. Having watched the Tour de France, I knew just what to do. I yelled to my fellow peloton rider, wife, to bike beside so I could pass the water bottle. Just as she was reaching, or over-reaching for the bottle.....she crashed to the pavement.
My wife is a sonographer for a local hospital, and her arm and hands, and yes mind are the keys to her occupation. In a heartbeat, we both held our breath. .....Ok. no broken hips or arms. relax...
Sometimes in pursuing a dream, one can, in the frenzy of things fall off the growth bicycle. Sometimes in reaching too far and not being in touch, reality can come and readjust the dream big time.
For me, it bought back my favorite Zen saying, " When you walk, walk. When you run, run. Don't wobble. "
When you are on the growth bicycle it is important not to overreach. The pavement comes quickly.
As far as dreams go, this one has been on the back burner. Now that two of the kids have finished college, however, we are facing a dream crisis of sorts---the bike trip requires being fit enough to bike 50 miles a day for a week. Yes, I did do the 56 mile Sugar River Trail roundtrip some years ago, but did take a week off afterwords. We do need to get the dream in our lifetime, so....
The other night we both went out to begin training again. I wore my yellow "Lance Armstrong" t-shirt just for the occasion. About the 5 mile mark, I got a little thirsty and noticed that my wife had forgotten her water bottle. Having watched the Tour de France, I knew just what to do. I yelled to my fellow peloton rider, wife, to bike beside so I could pass the water bottle. Just as she was reaching, or over-reaching for the bottle.....she crashed to the pavement.
My wife is a sonographer for a local hospital, and her arm and hands, and yes mind are the keys to her occupation. In a heartbeat, we both held our breath. .....Ok. no broken hips or arms. relax...
Sometimes in pursuing a dream, one can, in the frenzy of things fall off the growth bicycle. Sometimes in reaching too far and not being in touch, reality can come and readjust the dream big time.
For me, it bought back my favorite Zen saying, " When you walk, walk. When you run, run. Don't wobble. "
When you are on the growth bicycle it is important not to overreach. The pavement comes quickly.
Dateline Lake Leota; Wed, am; Last Duck heads South
It was Wednesday morn, 7am, the duck and duckling were near the dam, with the duck staring intently at the small sign, a little faded for wear, that stated in italic bold letters, "Dam Ahead."
It was not clear to the Observer whether the duck was upset by the fact that there was no lake left, but only a puddle and a vast moonscape of muck or whether the duck might be upset by the signage that was not up to local code. There is also no evidence that the duck reflected on what to do in the event of unexpected change.
Suddenly, smoothly, the duck lifted off and left for others below to clean up the mess.
It was not clear to the Observer whether the duck was upset by the fact that there was no lake left, but only a puddle and a vast moonscape of muck or whether the duck might be upset by the signage that was not up to local code. There is also no evidence that the duck reflected on what to do in the event of unexpected change.
Suddenly, smoothly, the duck lifted off and left for others below to clean up the mess.
On Old vs. Historic, a timeless question; Housekeeping matters
Recently my wife and I have been cleaning our home since the oldest daughters have graduated from college and officially moved. As we go through the old bedrooms, sifting through the boxes of memorabilia, the question arises every minute or so, "Is this Old or is this Historic?" It has been a very popular question lately.
There was an easier time when we had only one child, and the decision was simple. Everything was historic. Everything was saved. Every momento from every birthday celebration, every art effort in preschool was dutifully saved for posterity. Our entire culture depended on us preserving each historic effort. If we had stayed the course on that program, we would have had to move out decades ago.
Sometime during the long Saturday cleaning session, I simply asked the question. "Am I old or am I historic?" In a heartbeat I realized that I had crossed the line. So, I just laughed and said, "Yes, I am just old. We all are."
I guess when we are very young and foolish, everything is historic, everything is going to last forever, every little thing is critical for the survival of the culture. Then, most of us adjust. Most of us can tell the difference. Most of us can be honest with ourselves about what is old and what is historic.
There was an easier time when we had only one child, and the decision was simple. Everything was historic. Everything was saved. Every momento from every birthday celebration, every art effort in preschool was dutifully saved for posterity. Our entire culture depended on us preserving each historic effort. If we had stayed the course on that program, we would have had to move out decades ago.
Sometime during the long Saturday cleaning session, I simply asked the question. "Am I old or am I historic?" In a heartbeat I realized that I had crossed the line. So, I just laughed and said, "Yes, I am just old. We all are."
I guess when we are very young and foolish, everything is historic, everything is going to last forever, every little thing is critical for the survival of the culture. Then, most of us adjust. Most of us can tell the difference. Most of us can be honest with ourselves about what is old and what is historic.
Stillwater struggles to regain control of Lumberjack Days
Sometimes it takes a whole village----It has been taking everyone in Stillwater, Mn. to try to piece together what actually happened during last years Lumberjack Days. They had "Lynyrd Skynyrd" as the feature band and had plenty of fine beer, so what could have gone wrong? Turns out they had just too much beer and were a couple hundred porta potties short. Anyway, sometimes trying to get in touch with your heritage just backfires.
Stillwater is a special place for me, cause I used to picnic above Stillwater on the bluff in "Pioneer Park," Wonderful view. A scene right out of Huck Finn. Something to check out.
If you go to the Lumberjack days, there will be some bland bands they are hoping will keep everybody away, or at least a few of you who came for the music. I will try to keep you informed on how the weekend turned out.
As a P.S., the only lumberjacks I knew of were a Mr. Tozer, who was a lumber baron of Stillwater and left money for students of Washington county for college scholarships ----hundreds of them over the past 50 years. Many of my siblings and friends owe their schooling to his generosity. So, this weekend, Mr. Tozer, we remember. Thank you.
Stillwater is a special place for me, cause I used to picnic above Stillwater on the bluff in "Pioneer Park," Wonderful view. A scene right out of Huck Finn. Something to check out.
If you go to the Lumberjack days, there will be some bland bands they are hoping will keep everybody away, or at least a few of you who came for the music. I will try to keep you informed on how the weekend turned out.
As a P.S., the only lumberjacks I knew of were a Mr. Tozer, who was a lumber baron of Stillwater and left money for students of Washington county for college scholarships ----hundreds of them over the past 50 years. Many of my siblings and friends owe their schooling to his generosity. So, this weekend, Mr. Tozer, we remember. Thank you.
The Observer Prayer
Lord
When I was young
I had answers,
Now, I have only
questions
Teach me when I think I have the truth,
to pause and just ask
Questions,
and then shut up and
Listen
Teach me where there is
strident certainty
to look for
fear
and where there is difference
to look for
unity
When I face those who
think they are
self made and independent
Lord, remind me that all that is
beautiful and strong
You created in abundance for
free
Finally, Lord,
In the midst of a battle
Remind me to just wear
My Observer hat and
Observe
When I was young
I had answers,
Now, I have only
questions
Teach me when I think I have the truth,
to pause and just ask
Questions,
and then shut up and
Listen
Teach me where there is
strident certainty
to look for
fear
and where there is difference
to look for
unity
When I face those who
think they are
self made and independent
Lord, remind me that all that is
beautiful and strong
You created in abundance for
free
Finally, Lord,
In the midst of a battle
Remind me to just wear
My Observer hat and
Observe
It's Family Reunion Time----Or Why Family Tree Maker is an Underutilized Program
Well, it's Family Reunuion time again. Time to pack into the car and travel long distances to pot lucks. Time to reestablish all those links of Family.
Some time back I remember a tremendous surge in our family to load every precious memory into a software package known as "Family Tree Maker." In fact, we crashed several computers in the process. So much time was invested that we still have one computer that my spouse can't throw away even though we can't access the data.
Years ago, I heard of a woman who took her young son to the doctor. The son had a mysterious illness. The parents were deeply worried that it was something terminal. The doctor gently asked the woman, " Now tell me of your family medical history." The woman came to the doctor visit prepared with all sorts of notes. "Finally," she thought." all my research has paid off." And proceeded to give the doctor a thorough database of it. The doctor listened very patiently. When she had finished, the doctor gently asked, " Now please tell me of your husband's medical history. " "Well," she replied," I dont know anything about my husbands medical history or any of his relatives."
Before all you genetics gurus out there are too hard on this young woman, I would just ask you a simple question. In your family tree, in Family Tree Maker, are you compiling the history of both sides of the family or just one? In my experience, over 90% of families only consider the geneology of their parents and siblings "relevant." Interesting concept of Family. Only half of their Family Tree is ever filled out.
Ditto for the writing of history. Did you ever notice that a family history is deeply affected by who the surviving spouse is that writes the history. Yes, this is a clear argument for all you men out there to survive a little longer. It might clearly affect the way history is written.
So, as you head out on the long trip to meet the distant relatives, gaze across the car and go ahead, ask your spouse a little about the family history that you have left out of Family Tree Maker. It takes a lot of work to create a Family. It's time to begin!
Some time back I remember a tremendous surge in our family to load every precious memory into a software package known as "Family Tree Maker." In fact, we crashed several computers in the process. So much time was invested that we still have one computer that my spouse can't throw away even though we can't access the data.
Years ago, I heard of a woman who took her young son to the doctor. The son had a mysterious illness. The parents were deeply worried that it was something terminal. The doctor gently asked the woman, " Now tell me of your family medical history." The woman came to the doctor visit prepared with all sorts of notes. "Finally," she thought." all my research has paid off." And proceeded to give the doctor a thorough database of it. The doctor listened very patiently. When she had finished, the doctor gently asked, " Now please tell me of your husband's medical history. " "Well," she replied," I dont know anything about my husbands medical history or any of his relatives."
Before all you genetics gurus out there are too hard on this young woman, I would just ask you a simple question. In your family tree, in Family Tree Maker, are you compiling the history of both sides of the family or just one? In my experience, over 90% of families only consider the geneology of their parents and siblings "relevant." Interesting concept of Family. Only half of their Family Tree is ever filled out.
Ditto for the writing of history. Did you ever notice that a family history is deeply affected by who the surviving spouse is that writes the history. Yes, this is a clear argument for all you men out there to survive a little longer. It might clearly affect the way history is written.
So, as you head out on the long trip to meet the distant relatives, gaze across the car and go ahead, ask your spouse a little about the family history that you have left out of Family Tree Maker. It takes a lot of work to create a Family. It's time to begin!
And now....The rest of the story; Or How stories are written
One famous radio commentator, I think it was Paul Harvey, used to tell his news but leave out the key part till the very end, and reveal it as the "rest of the story." I was reflecting recently on how we get used to the stories being written. I remember in college, the 8am Sociology class in the Winter term. The large Johnson Hall lecture hall was warm. The prof would begin the lecture by announcing the topic and note that at the end of the lecture there would be plenty of time for questions. After 50 minutes, the bell would ring and he would say, " Well, I guess there is no time for questions." There never was.
After a while, we kind of got used to it. It was warm and cosy. He seemed to revel in pontificating. He seemed so sure of himself listening to himself talk. Why wreck a wonderful start to the day with a question?
Then I was assigned to David W. Noble for History for a course in my senior year. In addition to the lecture, there was a study group of 7 students that met at his home on Tuesday nights. David was a veteran who had suffered a back injury in the war, and he was able to stand for one hour max. So, when he was at home, he had to lay on his back most of the time. And for the class, he lay on his back on the floor with the students on chairs around the room, and he went from one to the next and asked what they thought about various aspects of the books assigned.
Prof Noble would start with an idea, and the students would go around the room and elaborate on it or debate about it among themselves. After just a few classes at his home, it was real hard to go back to sleeping in the lecture hall. The debates that we had, I still remember. The clash of ideas became a very real and exciting thing. My attitude about what teaching could be changed big time.
In a traditional newspaper, the reporter writes and you read. In the blog, I begin the thought and you the reader shape it and complete it. Big difference. Some government types have labeled questions from the public "misinformation." Excuse me. We are all writing the story. The whole community. Not just one. Not just me. Not just you.
Writing together the stories of our community requires something more than merely turning pages. It requires involvement, thoughtfullness and a willingness to be responsible for our thoughts. Willingness to speak and ....listen. So...
I have eliminated the anonymous comment feature and all comments on the blog will require you to register with a name or "Handle" and a password. You will be tracked by your ISP identification and will be responsible and accountable for your views. I will block any user that indulges in slander. We will stick to the issues and have fun on the blog as well.
It is too late to go back to the lecture hall. There are plenty of papers to read in this world that require nothing of YOU for participation. Buy one at your leisure. I only start the story. You all finish it. Different deal.
After a while, we kind of got used to it. It was warm and cosy. He seemed to revel in pontificating. He seemed so sure of himself listening to himself talk. Why wreck a wonderful start to the day with a question?
Then I was assigned to David W. Noble for History for a course in my senior year. In addition to the lecture, there was a study group of 7 students that met at his home on Tuesday nights. David was a veteran who had suffered a back injury in the war, and he was able to stand for one hour max. So, when he was at home, he had to lay on his back most of the time. And for the class, he lay on his back on the floor with the students on chairs around the room, and he went from one to the next and asked what they thought about various aspects of the books assigned.
Prof Noble would start with an idea, and the students would go around the room and elaborate on it or debate about it among themselves. After just a few classes at his home, it was real hard to go back to sleeping in the lecture hall. The debates that we had, I still remember. The clash of ideas became a very real and exciting thing. My attitude about what teaching could be changed big time.
In a traditional newspaper, the reporter writes and you read. In the blog, I begin the thought and you the reader shape it and complete it. Big difference. Some government types have labeled questions from the public "misinformation." Excuse me. We are all writing the story. The whole community. Not just one. Not just me. Not just you.
Writing together the stories of our community requires something more than merely turning pages. It requires involvement, thoughtfullness and a willingness to be responsible for our thoughts. Willingness to speak and ....listen. So...
I have eliminated the anonymous comment feature and all comments on the blog will require you to register with a name or "Handle" and a password. You will be tracked by your ISP identification and will be responsible and accountable for your views. I will block any user that indulges in slander. We will stick to the issues and have fun on the blog as well.
It is too late to go back to the lecture hall. There are plenty of papers to read in this world that require nothing of YOU for participation. Buy one at your leisure. I only start the story. You all finish it. Different deal.
The first Rule of the Lake---Get to the Lake
As a boy living near White Bear Lake in Minnesota, even though I lived 5 blocks from the Lake, I considered it my personal lake, and got used to swimming three times a day, and especially loved running down in the morn for the wake up splash. My dad explained the rules one night on the dock. He said, "Do you notice how all these cottages around the lake even though they may be neglected, have a huge power boat or sailboat? That is because the first rule of the Lake is to put the needs of the Lake first and make no excuses of why you can"t get to the Lake."
The SOLE committee will host a meeting on the current plan to restore Lake Leota on Wednesday, July 13th at 6:30PM near the soccer field at Lake Leota. Plan on attending.
The Case of a cat abduction; Or why it's great to be a cat and lost in Evansville
The Janesville Gazette in its community outreach section is running a story of a possible cat "abduction". The cat may be wandering in Evansville. The story celebrates Evansville as the perfect place for a cat to be lost in, being that we are such animal lovers.
The cat may have been seen behind the Ace Hardware or also on West Main. I will leave it to my readers to pursue the leads in this detective hunt.
Click on the post for the entire story.
The cat may have been seen behind the Ace Hardware or also on West Main. I will leave it to my readers to pursue the leads in this detective hunt.
Click on the post for the entire story.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Re: How to Edit your profile--grumps writes
--- grumps <noreply-comment@blogger.com> wrote:
---------------------------------
Beneath the box in which you post there is a link
under, "You are now posting as ________."
If you click that you should have an opportunity to
click on , "Edit My Profile."
--
Posted by grumps to Evansville Observer at 8/31/2005
06:15:42 PM
Residents Face Gasoline Price Shock--What Price will produce Change?
Drivers all across Wisconsin are reacting with dismay, outrage and panic as gas prices go to $3.00 and over.
Click on the post for a full story in the Capital Times. At what price would you be willing to switch cars or location of residence or heating system to cope with the rise in auto and heating costs? You make the call.
Click on the post for a full story in the Capital Times. At what price would you be willing to switch cars or location of residence or heating system to cope with the rise in auto and heating costs? You make the call.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Re: Evansville Observer Quiet Mode--move to Registered Users Only
--- Richard Woulfe <woulfe98@yahoo.com> wrote:
> Bill---
>
> Please send me notices as you have done. I have
> placed the blog on quiet mode for comments due to
> some
> hateful comments against one of the participants
> this
> morn.
>
> I anticipate reopening the comments tomorrow in
> registered format so there will no longer be
> anonymous.
>
> It has always been my intention to have the blog be
> about serious issues and about speedy and respectful
> dialogue. While it is unfortunate that someone has
> abused the anon, it was probably inevitable. I will
> act to keep the blog a space for dialogue,
> respectful
> dialogue.
>
>
> regards,
>
> The Observer
> Dick Woulfe
>
>
>
Re: Fw: Historic Lights along Main Street
--- Bill Connors <bill.connors@ci.evansville.wi.gov>
wrote:
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: DSauer@foth.com
> To: Bill Connors
> Cc: David Wartenweiler ; 'Janis Ringhand' ; Scott
> George ; Seaman, Tara
> Sent: Tuesday, August 30, 2005 2:41 PM
> Subject: Re: Historic Lights along Main Street
>
>
>
> We have worked out these locations for the 6
> historical lights based on construction limitations
> and the desire of the public works group and citizen
> imput to have lights on both sides of the highway
> east of the Exchange Street/Main Street
> intersection. The 6 lights will be placed between
> Exchange and Jackson. One light will be placed on
> the south side of the street at the Exchange Street
> intersection and one light will be placed on the
> south side of the street at the intersection with
> Jackson. The remaining 4 lights between these will
> be located on the north side of the street.
>
> David K. Sauer, PE, Project Director
> 1402 Pankratz Street
> Suite 300
> Madison, WI 53704
> Phone 608-242-5941/Fax 608-242-5999
> http:\\www.foth.com
>
>
>
>
Re: Public Hearing re Downtown Utility Work in 2006
--- Bill Connors <bill.connors@ci.evansville.wi.gov>
wrote:
>
>
> Please forward this message to all members of the
> Chamber of Commerce (not just the Board). It is
> vitally important that they give the city their
> input now, before it is too late.
>
> At 6:00 PM on Monday, Sept. 26, at City Hall, the
> Public Works Committee will hold a public hearing on
> whether the city should do needed sanitary sewer and
> water main replacement work in the intersection of
> Madison St. and Main St. in 2006 or 2007. If this
> work is done in 2006, it will be a couple of a two
> or three week projects and might not involve a
> complete closure of the intersection for the whole
> time. If it is done in 2007, then the intersection
> will be torn up for part of the time that Main St.
> in the downtown is torn up for the big, disruptive
> 2007 reconstruction project.
>
> The city had anticipated that downtown businesses
> would prefer to have no construction activity in the
> intersection of Madison St. and Main St. in 2007 so
> people driving to downtown businesses could use
> Madison St. to reach Church St. or Montgomery Ct. or
> Mill St. to access downtown businesses from the back
> side. But if business owners and residents are not
> concerned with making it more difficult to access
> downtown businesses from the back side in 2007 and
> would like a year of peace in 2006, I'm sure the
> city would be willing to accommodate that request.
>
> We just need to know what most people want. So if
> you are interested in this issue, please attend the
> public hearing.
>
> This public hearing will be in the meeting room on
> second floor of City Hall, because it is likely that
> the Board of Review, which starts at 3:00 PM that
> day, will still be using the Council Chambers on the
> third floor at 6:00 PM.
>
> Bill Connors
> Evansville City Administrator
> 31 S. Madison St.
> P.O. Box 76
> Evansville, WI 53536
> (608) 882-2263
> fax: (608) 882-2282
>
Upper East Main Renovation Plan Discussions Intensify
At the Public Works meeting on Monday night, Aug. 29,2005, there was a reopening of the discussion of Upper East Main Renovation. Chairman, Bill Hammann indicated that now that the Hwy 14 DOT project is drawing to a close, it is time to intensify the discussion about the plan for Upper East Main.
The original plan had been for the City to do work in the summer of 2006, 2007, and 2008 with the objective of short interruptions to minimize the damage to downtown business. While applauding the objective, some business owners wondered whether it might be best to have 2006 be a "recovery" year from construction so that the perception is avoided that the downtown is perpetually closed. Mr. Hammann said that this is a valid concern and that the Public Works committee is looking for business input on this matter and all of the ideas about the "streetscaping plan" and will be holding public hearings in September to fully air the plans with the public.
On the "streetscapting plan" for Upper East Main, Jeff Farnsworth presented some results from a sub-committee examining options. One of the options that was considered a pipe-dream a year ago was the use of restored existing paving bricks on East Main. Dave Sauer went over the life expectancy of asphalt(10yrs), concrete(20yrs) and paving bricks(100 years). Paving bricks are more expensive at the front end, but not over longer term. Also, federal grants are available. The bricks are actually all the rage nationwide right now. A consultant brought in showed that the existing buried bricks are in excellent condition. This had not been anticipated. Some alternatives might also be considered such as doing the intersections in paving brick. Readers are urged to view the use of paving brick motif at the intersection of Union and East Main that was just done yesterday to get the idea.
Mr. Hammann asked Dave Sauer to gather detailed cost projections of each paving type for the next meeting. There will be a full public hearing about all the options that are possible and the public will be asked their thoughts on this.
The original plan had been for the City to do work in the summer of 2006, 2007, and 2008 with the objective of short interruptions to minimize the damage to downtown business. While applauding the objective, some business owners wondered whether it might be best to have 2006 be a "recovery" year from construction so that the perception is avoided that the downtown is perpetually closed. Mr. Hammann said that this is a valid concern and that the Public Works committee is looking for business input on this matter and all of the ideas about the "streetscaping plan" and will be holding public hearings in September to fully air the plans with the public.
On the "streetscapting plan" for Upper East Main, Jeff Farnsworth presented some results from a sub-committee examining options. One of the options that was considered a pipe-dream a year ago was the use of restored existing paving bricks on East Main. Dave Sauer went over the life expectancy of asphalt(10yrs), concrete(20yrs) and paving bricks(100 years). Paving bricks are more expensive at the front end, but not over longer term. Also, federal grants are available. The bricks are actually all the rage nationwide right now. A consultant brought in showed that the existing buried bricks are in excellent condition. This had not been anticipated. Some alternatives might also be considered such as doing the intersections in paving brick. Readers are urged to view the use of paving brick motif at the intersection of Union and East Main that was just done yesterday to get the idea.
Mr. Hammann asked Dave Sauer to gather detailed cost projections of each paving type for the next meeting. There will be a full public hearing about all the options that are possible and the public will be asked their thoughts on this.
Observer awards "Golden Watch Award" to Danielle for Journalism Service
Over the past months, the stories written about Evansville by Danielle for the Janesville Gazette have been the starting point for many lively public discussions on this blog site. On Saturday, I ran into Danielle in the coffee shop and she shared with me that this week she is beginning her new career in advertising with a major communications firm in Janesville.
Naturally, I was disappointed that she was jumping ship right in the middle of the saga of the sandwich board signs, but I understood that one might not be able to hold out till that saga was ended. You might have noticed that on Sunday, there was not one story about Evansville in the Janesville Gazette.
Over the years, Danielle and I have attended many of the same meetings, and I always have admired her perception of what was important in a meeting, and have also admired the things that she left on the editing floor as really a distraction from the story. So, I have learned a lot from her writing. And, yes in some cases, I would let her wade into battle with a story and just be the Observer.
There are no gold watches in the journalism biz, so I do award Danielle the symbolic Observer "Golden Watch" award for her service to the Evansville Community.
The Observer wishes her well with her new firm. Her kids are excited because there are some cable tv benefits along with the new job. Bravo.
Naturally, I was disappointed that she was jumping ship right in the middle of the saga of the sandwich board signs, but I understood that one might not be able to hold out till that saga was ended. You might have noticed that on Sunday, there was not one story about Evansville in the Janesville Gazette.
Over the years, Danielle and I have attended many of the same meetings, and I always have admired her perception of what was important in a meeting, and have also admired the things that she left on the editing floor as really a distraction from the story. So, I have learned a lot from her writing. And, yes in some cases, I would let her wade into battle with a story and just be the Observer.
There are no gold watches in the journalism biz, so I do award Danielle the symbolic Observer "Golden Watch" award for her service to the Evansville Community.
The Observer wishes her well with her new firm. Her kids are excited because there are some cable tv benefits along with the new job. Bravo.
Wayfinding Signage Plan Wins Praise
At the Monday night Public Works Committee Meeting, the Ad Hoc Committee on Wayfinding Signage, consisting of John Decker, Chris Eager, Heidi Carvin, Jeff Farnsworth and Betsy Ahner presented their report on proposed sign design and placement of signs so that people coming to Evansville can be directed efficiently to their destination by signs that are consistent with the historic feel of the community.
The arch top, 3- destination sign was the unanimous choice of the committee and of the 14 persons that attended this months Evansville Community Partnerships meeting and who were asked to provide input on the proposed signs. The arched wording of "Evansville" in Roman lettering was strongly endorsed as well as limiting the number of destinations on any sign to no more than three.
Also agreed on was green lettering on a white background.
About a third of the signs were school related and it was anticipated that some financial contribution would be requested of the school district to help with the cost.
The signs would be first implemented in the Union and East Main area of the new highway construction and then be budgeted for some each year similar to the way the sidewalk improvement plan has been scheduled.
All in attendance applauded the work of this ad hoc committee.
The arch top, 3- destination sign was the unanimous choice of the committee and of the 14 persons that attended this months Evansville Community Partnerships meeting and who were asked to provide input on the proposed signs. The arched wording of "Evansville" in Roman lettering was strongly endorsed as well as limiting the number of destinations on any sign to no more than three.
Also agreed on was green lettering on a white background.
About a third of the signs were school related and it was anticipated that some financial contribution would be requested of the school district to help with the cost.
The signs would be first implemented in the Union and East Main area of the new highway construction and then be budgeted for some each year similar to the way the sidewalk improvement plan has been scheduled.
All in attendance applauded the work of this ad hoc committee.
Monday, August 29, 2005
In Progress: Discussions continue on solution of East Main Lighting
At the Public Works meeting on Monday night Dave Wartenmueller and Jeff Sauer, reviewed how the lighting problem arose. The originial plans did not include the historic lighting. These were lights that were planned for upper Main that were moved down--6 of them.
The space available on the South side of Main, at least to 255 is not enough to place the lights. After that, it still is pretty tight, and subcontractors get very nervous about getting close to the fiber optic cable since the rule is if you hit it, you pay for it. Also, the gas line is close.
Alternatives were discussed such as putting the lights on the South side. And also alternating by boring across the street directly to where the light would be on the North side. That would minimize the risk of hitting a fiber optic cable.
The overall objective is to get a scheme of lighting that will be consistent all the way out East Main. In any event, the historic lighting will be installed over several years. The first would be the six lights.
The general consensus was that alternating lights on both sides would be preferable to just all on the North side. The cost here is a add on and this is really not a case of specific performance of someone not doing something properly. This was not in the original plan. So there was a discussion of the cost, but it appears that the project is at or under cost projections so this is still something that is feasible. The engineers are still pondering the solution. I will keep you posted as to the final plan.
The space available on the South side of Main, at least to 255 is not enough to place the lights. After that, it still is pretty tight, and subcontractors get very nervous about getting close to the fiber optic cable since the rule is if you hit it, you pay for it. Also, the gas line is close.
Alternatives were discussed such as putting the lights on the South side. And also alternating by boring across the street directly to where the light would be on the North side. That would minimize the risk of hitting a fiber optic cable.
The overall objective is to get a scheme of lighting that will be consistent all the way out East Main. In any event, the historic lighting will be installed over several years. The first would be the six lights.
The general consensus was that alternating lights on both sides would be preferable to just all on the North side. The cost here is a add on and this is really not a case of specific performance of someone not doing something properly. This was not in the original plan. So there was a discussion of the cost, but it appears that the project is at or under cost projections so this is still something that is feasible. The engineers are still pondering the solution. I will keep you posted as to the final plan.
Monroe Schools launch new science curriculum for elementary and middle schools
The Monroe Times is reporting that Monroe elementary and middle school students will have a new science curriculum that they hope will boost learning in the sciences.
Click on the post for the entire story.
Click on the post for the entire story.
Jericho Drive residents of Albany seek developer sanctions
The Albany Vision weekly newspaper is reporting that residents of Jericho Drive of Albany have asked the city council to disallow any further development proposals from Rick Eager until he completes the projects he currently has under development. Specifically, they object to the road on Jericho Drive that is not up to standards so it can be made a township road.
Click on the post to read the entire article.
Click on the post to read the entire article.
City of Milton Sued over Open Meeting Law violation
As part of the saga of the ethanol plant development in Milton, the group opposing the plant has filed suit against the City of Milton for open meeting law violations. The city of Milton has responded that they had a right to hold certain discussions in private session and also had the right to waive the second and third readings of the ordinance approving the development if they chose.
This should be a story to watch as it develops. Click on the post for the entire story in the Wisconsin State Journal.
This should be a story to watch as it develops. Click on the post for the entire story in the Wisconsin State Journal.
Friday, August 26, 2005
Developing Story: No lights for East Main? or Don't Pave the street till the Conduit is in!
This is a developing story---It appears that although the guys from Intercon have been marking utility locations for months, nobody thought of putting the proper electrical in for the lights on East Main? Is this so?
If the paving occurs quickly, to put in the electrical later would mean ripping up the paving. If it was to be put in, the time is now. This rush to pave brings back bad memories to the day when concrete for the Citgo was poured despite residents warning that the building was laid out improperly.
At the 4th Ward meeting at Franklin Park some time back, residents of East Main were promised 6 historic lights to be placed between Union and Main and Cemetary and Main. Instead it may be a case of the dark ages, or no lights at all? Say it aint so, Joe.
If the paving occurs quickly, to put in the electrical later would mean ripping up the paving. If it was to be put in, the time is now. This rush to pave brings back bad memories to the day when concrete for the Citgo was poured despite residents warning that the building was laid out improperly.
At the 4th Ward meeting at Franklin Park some time back, residents of East Main were promised 6 historic lights to be placed between Union and Main and Cemetary and Main. Instead it may be a case of the dark ages, or no lights at all? Say it aint so, Joe.
President decares government must lead by example in energy conservation: Orders audit of agencies. CORRECTION President Arroyo of Philippines .......
Declaring that government must lead by example, President Arroyo of the Philippines has ordered her energy audit team into the field to audit government agencies to make sure they are cutting their energy consumption by 10%.
The Observer gives another leadeship award to Arroyo and wishes other Presidents would follow her lead.
When would be the time to further intensify energy conservation? If not now, when?
The Observer gives another leadeship award to Arroyo and wishes other Presidents would follow her lead.
When would be the time to further intensify energy conservation? If not now, when?
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Rant and Counter Rant on Impact of the Big Box Stores
Here is an interesting rant and counter rant on the big box stores in California and the nation.
Which side of this debate do you side with? You make the call.
Which side of this debate do you side with? You make the call.
WATERCOOLER: MAILBAG: Does the Format or Structure of the Planning Commission meetings in Evansville need to be changed? Mark writes
--- Mark Schnepper <noreply-comment@blogger.com>
wrote:
---------------------------------
The problem I have with the plan commisson meetings
is the format.
Public comment
Commission member discussion
Vote
It seems unfair to me that the commission hears your
public comments and then sometimes responds, sometimes
doesn't in their discussion, then they vote. They
have the opportunity to respond to your concerns if
they choose to, however, after listening to their
discussion, the public floor has already been closed
and a citizen has no opportuntiy for a rebuttal to the
commission members discussion.
From what I understand from friends that live in other
communities that these meetings are staged over
several meetings and have more of a dialogue between
the the citizens and the planning commission. I think
a different format could develop more of a dialoge
between the PC and citizens that attend.
--
Posted by Mark Schnepper to Evansville Observer at
8/25/2005 08:50:19 AM
Re:" Bicycle Trail Crusader Wanted " by Bill Connors
--- Anonymous <anonymous-comment@blogger.com> wrote:
---------------------------------
We need a motel in Evansville. A bicyle trail
starting or running through Evansville would be great,
too. There is an abandoned railroad right of way that
branches off the Union Pacific line south of Water St.
and goes to Beloit. I think it goes through Footville
and Hanover as well. At least near Evansville, the
rails and ties already have been removed. That would
be a prime location for a bicycle trail. Bicyclists
from the Chicago area could start in Beloit and ride
up to stay in Evansville. If someone would like to
make obtaining state funding for a bicycle trail their
personal crusade, we'd all appreciate it.
Bill Connors
Evansville City Administrator
--
Posted by Anonymous to Evansville Observer at
8/25/2005 07:31:35 AM
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Free: Upright Piano: contact The Observer
Full Upright Piano available for free. Contact the Observer at 882-6481 or email woulfe98@yahoo.com
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Re: No Child Left Behind Opt out---High school students procedure--Cueball writes
--- "Frederick H. Juergens, Jr." <fredj608@yahoo.com>
wrote:
> I suggest you
> look
> at this website if you have time:
>
> http://www.leavemychildalone.org/index.cfm
>
> This site gives a lot of information on the nature
> of
> the effort to keep children's information private. I
> hope this will a better source than what I might
> say.
>
> Second, I am retyping between the lines below,
> hopefully without too many typos, the notice that
> the
> school district sent out in their 22-page October
> 2004
> newsletter to parents.
> ---------
>
> NOTICE OF RELEASE OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION TO
> MILITARY
> RECRUITERS.
>
> Under the Federal No Child Left Behind act: Schools
> are required to provide military recruiters the
> names,
> addresses and phone numbers of our students. We are
> also required to let you know that if you do not
> wish
> to have us release this information to military
> recruiters, you can request that we take your
> child's
> information off the list we share, upon request from
> military recruiters. If this is your preference,
> please notify Mr. Keister or Ms. Morstad by Octoer
> 8,
> 2004.
>
> School districts are also required to give the
> military recruiters the same access to students as
> we
> do any representatives from other higher education
> institutions. Normally, a notice is given to
> students
> that a representative will be at the school, and the
> student attends if interested. No parent
> notification
> is given. If you want to encourage or discourage
> your child from meeting these representatives, you
> should have a conversation with your child. We do
> not
> limit student contact with recruiters from the
> military, colleges or tech schools.
> -----------------
>
UW achieves dream----# 1 Party school in Nation; Is UW degree credible?
You know you are are in an alcoholic culture when all the dj's of drive time radio stations are aging white haired baby boomers and each morning they are talking of their hang-over. Excuse me. I remember these guys from the 70's. How could they have any brain cells left after all those hang overs. Oh.
Anyway, the UW finally got its dream of being the #1 Party school in the nation. What a wonderful recruiting tool. As a parent what would you think of taking some of your retirement money and helping your child achieve that presitigous degree?
Does the UW have any credibility as an academic institution left? Click on the post for the entire story. You make the call.
Anyway, the UW finally got its dream of being the #1 Party school in the nation. What a wonderful recruiting tool. As a parent what would you think of taking some of your retirement money and helping your child achieve that presitigous degree?
Does the UW have any credibility as an academic institution left? Click on the post for the entire story. You make the call.
Brodhead celebrates new cycle hotel and store
Danielle has written a nice article about the new hotel and cycle store in Brodhead at the entrance to the Sugar River Trail. Each room in the hotel is named after a different Tour de France champion.
Click on the post to see the article. This would be a nice idea for Evansville when we get our trails connected to somewhere. What do you think?
Click on the post to see the article. This would be a nice idea for Evansville when we get our trails connected to somewhere. What do you think?
Monday, August 22, 2005
Antique Nordic trunk for sale---$1200--Cunningham carpentry
This Nordic chest, circa 1870, was one of the treasures of the recent Evansville garage day sale. It was purchased by Jim Cunningham, who just happened to have the matching lock that it was missing. He has carefully restored the baltic fir wood finish. It is unusual because of its rounded top.
Now available for $1200. Call Jim Cunningham at 608-882-0679. or email him at casia @eishome.com
Tragic Deaths of Young DeForest Teens highlight 16 yr old driver risk.
The tragic death of three DeForest high school students recently highlights the dangers of 16 year old drivers. According to the graduated license regulations, a 16 yr old can only have one unrelated passenger in the car between 5am and midnight.
How often are the regulations for 16 yr old drivers enforced by their parents?
How often are the regulations for 16 yr old drivers enforced by their parents?
WATERCOOLER: Should the City of Evansville broadcast common council, planning commission, public works and finance committee meetings on Cable TV?
At a recent school board meeting, Supr. Heidi Garvin mentioned that the school district is attempting to get access from Charter Communications for a channel to broadcast events of interest.
As a sidenote, she mentioned that possibly the City of Evansville might also want access. Many cities across the country routinely broadcast their public meetings on cable.
Considering the limited seating capacity of the Evansville City Hall chamber, and the public interest involved, what do you think? Should the city of Evansville broadcast their meetings on cable?
What are your thoughts? You make the call.
As a sidenote, she mentioned that possibly the City of Evansville might also want access. Many cities across the country routinely broadcast their public meetings on cable.
Considering the limited seating capacity of the Evansville City Hall chamber, and the public interest involved, what do you think? Should the city of Evansville broadcast their meetings on cable?
What are your thoughts? You make the call.
Gas Prices Begin to Change Habits in Twin Cities
Twin City realtors are reporting that increasing gas prices are affecting decisions on where people are planning to live. Some are deciding to move closer to their work and use mass transit. Others are switching from large SUV's to hybrid fuel efficient cars.
At what price would gasoline prices affect your behavior on house choice or car choice? Are we there yet? You make the call.
At what price would gasoline prices affect your behavior on house choice or car choice? Are we there yet? You make the call.
UB& T Customer Appreciation Picnic--Sunday, August 28th, Noon to 3PM, Lake Leota Park
Live music and free lunch for all customers of UB&T at the annual UB&T Customer Appreciation Picnic. Music includes the Dixie Flavors Band (noon-2PM) and the EHS Girls Barbershop Quartet (2-3PM). The free lunch features BBQ Pork Sandwiches, Hot Dogs, Salads, Chips and Soda. If you aren't a current customer, maybe it's time to become one. Remember, UB&T Rocks.
Friday, August 19, 2005
Watercooler: Two Minnesota Teacher Unions urge boycott of Wal-mart for school supplies--Should Wisconsin follow their lead?
Two Minnesota teacher unions have urged their memebers to encourage students to boycott Wal-Mart for purchasing their school supplies on the basis of the damage to families that Wal-mart causes.
Click on the post for the entire story. What are your thoughts on this? Should Wisconsin follow the lead of Minnesota? Do you buy your school suppies at Wal-Mart? Do you go for the cheapest or do you consider the impact of Wal-Marts employment policies? You make the call.
Click on the post for the entire story. What are your thoughts on this? Should Wisconsin follow the lead of Minnesota? Do you buy your school suppies at Wal-Mart? Do you go for the cheapest or do you consider the impact of Wal-Marts employment policies? You make the call.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
CapTimes says Pro-war Attacks on Sheehan show "desperation".
The Cap Times Web edition is running an editorial by Mr. Nichols this morn describing the pro war attacks on the Gold Star War Mom, Mrs. Sheehan, as an act of desperation.
Click on the post for the article by Mr. Nichols. What do you think? You make the call.
Click on the post for the article by Mr. Nichols. What do you think? You make the call.
Meeting Notice--Evansville Observer
The editorial board of The Evansville Observer will meet on Thursday, August 18, 2005, from 5am-7am at corporate headquarters in Evansville. The board will consider issues of organization, editorial policy, compensation and other matters that may come before it. The public is welcome to attend.
Persons who have special disabilities requiring special accomodations pursuant to Wis Stat 465.8977632799 should contact the Observer office in advance for special consideration.
Persons who have special disabilities requiring special accomodations pursuant to Wis Stat 465.8977632799 should contact the Observer office in advance for special consideration.
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Wisconsin #2 in ACT TEST. Minnesota 1st. Participation broadens. Problems in Math and Science persist.
While Wisconsin was edged from the #1 position in ACT test scores last year, the first time in a decade not being #1, there were some bright spots. The participation rate of Wisconsin seniors was 69% as opposed to 40% nationally.
The gap between performance of white and minority seems to be narrowing. With the large increase of participation it is amazing that the scores did not drop. The not so good news is that the scores in math and science do not seem to indicate that we are going to see an increase in college bound scientists and mathematics students in the future. The students must not be taking the core courses necessary to score on these exams.
Click on the post for the entire article in the Janesville Gazette. What are your thoughts on the article?
The gap between performance of white and minority seems to be narrowing. With the large increase of participation it is amazing that the scores did not drop. The not so good news is that the scores in math and science do not seem to indicate that we are going to see an increase in college bound scientists and mathematics students in the future. The students must not be taking the core courses necessary to score on these exams.
Click on the post for the entire article in the Janesville Gazette. What are your thoughts on the article?
President rallies Nation to confront Oil Crisis etc ( CORRECTION---President Arroyo of Philippines Rallies Nation to confront Looming Oil Crisis
The Observer would like to give the leadership award of the week to President Arroyo of the Philippines who while being preoccupied with terrorist attacks last week and a fradulent impeachment attempt on her office, has rallied the Filipino people to put aside politics and come together to confront the looming oil crisis that is affecting the Philippines.
She has ordered an Oil summit and has ordered cutbacks of oil consumption in all the departments. There is even a report of bike lanes being designated in Manila in preparation for the surge of bike traffic.
Click on the post for the entire Philippine oil story.
It must be hard for Americans to think back to the news conference when Jimmy Carter, decked out in his button down sweater, asked Americans to cut back on their energy usage. He sure took ridicule for his leadership back then. It sure looks like leadership now. It has been a while since Americans were asked to cut back. Maybe it's time to get the heavy sweaters out and get the bike ready. I sure wish the old railroad bed was ready. It could get a little tricky on the bike on Hwy 14.
She has ordered an Oil summit and has ordered cutbacks of oil consumption in all the departments. There is even a report of bike lanes being designated in Manila in preparation for the surge of bike traffic.
Click on the post for the entire Philippine oil story.
It must be hard for Americans to think back to the news conference when Jimmy Carter, decked out in his button down sweater, asked Americans to cut back on their energy usage. He sure took ridicule for his leadership back then. It sure looks like leadership now. It has been a while since Americans were asked to cut back. Maybe it's time to get the heavy sweaters out and get the bike ready. I sure wish the old railroad bed was ready. It could get a little tricky on the bike on Hwy 14.
Four Vigils set for Tonight for Gold Star Mom Sheehan--Evansville--HWY14 &M--7:30PM
Click on the post for the details of the four vigils in the Madison area in support of Mrs. Sheehan, the Gold Star Mom who is camped out in Crawford, Texas, protesting the current U.S. involvement in Iraq that resulted in the death of her son.
The local vigil in Evansville will be at Hwy 14 and M at 7:30PM.
The local vigil in Evansville will be at Hwy 14 and M at 7:30PM.
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Other items from School Board meeting of 8-15-2005
Joe Francis reported that the change of gym lights will reduce the electric costs from $28,000 per year to $7,000 per year.
The final enrollment numbers and hence the final firm number of state contribution to the Evansville School District will be known on 10/14/2005. It looks right now like a decrease in the tax levy of about 1%.
In the first reading at the school board was Policy #871 Public Complaints About School Personnel (Complaints against staff). There was some discussion of the process of complaint resolution, and it is expected to come up again at the September board meeting.
On the agenda for the upcoming school year board meetings:
October--Long Distance Capital Project Planning
February--Distance Learning and On-line Learning
April---Tech Ed Review
Dennis Hatfield asked for a session on Textbooks and what's new in that field.
The final enrollment numbers and hence the final firm number of state contribution to the Evansville School District will be known on 10/14/2005. It looks right now like a decrease in the tax levy of about 1%.
In the first reading at the school board was Policy #871 Public Complaints About School Personnel (Complaints against staff). There was some discussion of the process of complaint resolution, and it is expected to come up again at the September board meeting.
On the agenda for the upcoming school year board meetings:
October--Long Distance Capital Project Planning
February--Distance Learning and On-line Learning
April---Tech Ed Review
Dennis Hatfield asked for a session on Textbooks and what's new in that field.
Watercooler: Should the Evansville School District televise all Board meetings on Cable TV?
Last night at the Evansville School District Board of Education meeting, Supr. Heidi Garvin explained that the Charter Franchise Agreement was up for renewal, and that for a school district our size, one of the items we should have is access to programming of events of interest. She mentioned the possibility of broadcasting board meetings that were of particular interest.
Art Phillips suggested that all board meetings be televised as a matter of policy. He said that the public is interested in what goes on even though many cannot spend the four hours away from home on a Monday night. This would be a way of informing the public. Ms. Garvin said the first goal would be to get the access.
What do you think? Do you want to have the Board of Education meetings on cable so you can make up your own mind what happened rather than believe a news article or heaven forbid a blogger?
You make the call?
Art Phillips suggested that all board meetings be televised as a matter of policy. He said that the public is interested in what goes on even though many cannot spend the four hours away from home on a Monday night. This would be a way of informing the public. Ms. Garvin said the first goal would be to get the access.
What do you think? Do you want to have the Board of Education meetings on cable so you can make up your own mind what happened rather than believe a news article or heaven forbid a blogger?
You make the call?
On the Power of One; Or Why Cindy Sheehan matters
Cindy Sheehan is not just a Gold Star War mother. She has in the act of challenging George Bush to declare what the meaning of her son's death was, provided a dramatic point of no return for George Bush. She says she will go mano a mano with him. So far, he is a no show.
There was a time in the Vietnam War when returning vets such as John Kerry spoke out agains the war. It is one thing for the public to speak against war in polls, but when the war widows and war mothers do not have meaning in the sacrifice, it spells real trouble.
Tom Hayden, activist in the Vietnam war, has written a piece on the significance of Cindy Sheehan and why her action is so important. Click on the post for the whole story.
What do you think? You make the call.
There was a time in the Vietnam War when returning vets such as John Kerry spoke out agains the war. It is one thing for the public to speak against war in polls, but when the war widows and war mothers do not have meaning in the sacrifice, it spells real trouble.
Tom Hayden, activist in the Vietnam war, has written a piece on the significance of Cindy Sheehan and why her action is so important. Click on the post for the whole story.
What do you think? You make the call.
Brodhead Unveils Library Plans
Brodhead has unveiled their new design for a possible new library that features an 18,500 sq.ft. facility on 2.2 acres of land that will serve the Brodhead community till 2020. The cost is 3.8 million. The facility will include a 150 seat multipurpose community meeting room.
Click on the post for the entire article on the Brodhead library in the Janesville Gazette. Compare and contrast the recent post on the new library plan for Evansville. Maybe we can get some nice ideas from the Brodhead design.
What are your thoughts?
Click on the post for the entire article on the Brodhead library in the Janesville Gazette. Compare and contrast the recent post on the new library plan for Evansville. Maybe we can get some nice ideas from the Brodhead design.
What are your thoughts?
Evansville Library Begins Visioning process for Future
At the Evansville Finance Committee meeting on Tuesday, August 8,2005, Bridget Rolek, director of the Eager Free Public Library, presented two possible needs estimates depending on which estimate of Evansville population growth one accepts, the State of Wisconsin population estimates, or those of the Smart Growth Plan.
Both needs plans assume action in 2010. The lease of the post office is up in 2009. The owner of this property is Roger Berg. The library is intersted in seeing whether he would be willing to give them an option to purchase the property.
The rate of growth assumption is important since based on the state version of Evansville growth, the needs for the future building would be 14,721 sq. ft., where the current building is 6800 sq ft or 8000 sq. ft at $240 per sq ft or $1,920,000.
If one assumes the Smart Growth rate of population growth, the additional space needs would be 11,539 sq ft at a cost of $2,769,360 with the proviso that the current post office space may not be adequate for future expansion past 2025.
The question was asked whether a portion of the library would be separated out. Bridget did not think so. There was also the question of whether the Historic Preservation committee would even allow a addition to the current library that might be higher than the current two stories.
The Observer would like to see some discussion of possibly having a separate Internet reading room and childrens library with meeting space. The larger plan based on smart growth population estimates shows 14 terminals for internet use, and still only 1350 sq. ft for meeting space. The Observer would like to see more meeting space. All of this could be on ground floor, handicap accessible.
In a growing community it is possible for 50-75 people to want to attend a meeting. Currently anything over 20 becomes crowded at City Hall. The community likes to meet, whether it is for coffee, or discussion. The library expansion might be a good time to plan some space for meeting, an important role that the library has played in the past especially during the construction of the high school.
Anyway, this is a developing story. It is time to think of the possibilities. What do you think?
Both needs plans assume action in 2010. The lease of the post office is up in 2009. The owner of this property is Roger Berg. The library is intersted in seeing whether he would be willing to give them an option to purchase the property.
The rate of growth assumption is important since based on the state version of Evansville growth, the needs for the future building would be 14,721 sq. ft., where the current building is 6800 sq ft or 8000 sq. ft at $240 per sq ft or $1,920,000.
If one assumes the Smart Growth rate of population growth, the additional space needs would be 11,539 sq ft at a cost of $2,769,360 with the proviso that the current post office space may not be adequate for future expansion past 2025.
The question was asked whether a portion of the library would be separated out. Bridget did not think so. There was also the question of whether the Historic Preservation committee would even allow a addition to the current library that might be higher than the current two stories.
The Observer would like to see some discussion of possibly having a separate Internet reading room and childrens library with meeting space. The larger plan based on smart growth population estimates shows 14 terminals for internet use, and still only 1350 sq. ft for meeting space. The Observer would like to see more meeting space. All of this could be on ground floor, handicap accessible.
In a growing community it is possible for 50-75 people to want to attend a meeting. Currently anything over 20 becomes crowded at City Hall. The community likes to meet, whether it is for coffee, or discussion. The library expansion might be a good time to plan some space for meeting, an important role that the library has played in the past especially during the construction of the high school.
Anyway, this is a developing story. It is time to think of the possibilities. What do you think?
Friday, August 12, 2005
FCC deregulates DSL--- Obit for small ISP? Higher prices to come?
As many of you know, the word "deregulation" is not one of my favorites. Whether its phone, airline, stock market, electric utility or whatever, whenever I hear the word "deregulation'" I reach for my wallet as if a thief is about to strike.
So, when the FCC announced that it is deregulating DSL,( click on the post of the Cap times article,) it is unclear to me what it all means. Does this mean the death of small ISP's? Will we get more "value" in bundled services that we may or may not need and be forced to pay higher prices for internet access?
One of the small ISP's is Ticon, who is a reseller of DSL. The article suggests that the small ISP's will be forced out. Ticon declines comment.
I am curious as to what my tech savy readers who follow this might think of what this all means for the consumer down the line. You make the call.
So, when the FCC announced that it is deregulating DSL,( click on the post of the Cap times article,) it is unclear to me what it all means. Does this mean the death of small ISP's? Will we get more "value" in bundled services that we may or may not need and be forced to pay higher prices for internet access?
One of the small ISP's is Ticon, who is a reseller of DSL. The article suggests that the small ISP's will be forced out. Ticon declines comment.
I am curious as to what my tech savy readers who follow this might think of what this all means for the consumer down the line. You make the call.
New "looser" concealed Gun law proposed--Just in time for Football season
With gunfire all around, from Fitchburg where authorities have assured us that it's just "locals" so its no threat, to Orfordville where a rifle is concealed by a garbage bag, one wonders about the story this morn about the new "looser" concealed gun law proposal that would make carrying guns to sporting events and taverns possible.
I wonder if Evansville could ever have any of these problems if gun totin folks could just get through the maze of detours. I just assume those wild folks are not locals but the foreigners from Brodhead and yonder parts. Ah the power of positive thinking.
What are your thoughts on the current state of concealed gun laws in Wisconsin. You make the call.
I wonder if Evansville could ever have any of these problems if gun totin folks could just get through the maze of detours. I just assume those wild folks are not locals but the foreigners from Brodhead and yonder parts. Ah the power of positive thinking.
What are your thoughts on the current state of concealed gun laws in Wisconsin. You make the call.
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Southern Wis had large role in Social Security formulation----UW focus Friday
Tammy Baldwin will be in Madison on Friday at UW to hold a news conference and focus on the role of Professor Witte and other Wisconsin intellectuals in the formulation of Social Security.
This focus is at a very critical time of debate over social security and its promise as opposed to private accounts as proposed by the Bush administration. Click on the post for the background article in the Janesville Gazette.
What are your thoughts on private accounts? What are your recommendations? You make the call.
This focus is at a very critical time of debate over social security and its promise as opposed to private accounts as proposed by the Bush administration. Click on the post for the background article in the Janesville Gazette.
What are your thoughts on private accounts? What are your recommendations? You make the call.
Military may have had intel on Atta in 1999 but did not share info.
The final report of the 911 commission did not include info that the military had info on Atta as early as 1999. Seems they did not want to share the info with the FBI. Was this just another case of failure to share or a cover up?
This may be a developing story. Click the post for the entire story.
This may be a developing story. Click the post for the entire story.
Janesville approves outdoor tavern dining--economic development seen
The city of Janesville has approved outdoor dining for the "Looking Glass" tavern in downtown Janesville. After much discussion, there was a general consensus that a downtown friendly outdoor dining atmosphere would aid economic development.
Click on the post for the entire article in the Janesville Gazette. What do you think of similar outdoor dining for Evansville?
Click on the post for the entire article in the Janesville Gazette. What do you think of similar outdoor dining for Evansville?
Baldwin Bike Tour highlights increased Bike Trail Funding
Tammy Baldwin has launched a bike tour of her districts and will be listening to her constituents as well as highlighting the 7.8 million dollar funding that will improve area bike trail development.
It would have been nice if Evansville could get connected to the bike trails so we could share in this development. There are several areas where the new Comprehensive Plan has penciled in bike paths but I am not sure whether we have a way to get connected to the other network.
The Wisconsin State Journal has a nice article on this. Click on the post.
It would have been nice if Evansville could get connected to the bike trails so we could share in this development. There are several areas where the new Comprehensive Plan has penciled in bike paths but I am not sure whether we have a way to get connected to the other network.
The Wisconsin State Journal has a nice article on this. Click on the post.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Evansville Council wrestles with Signs
Danielle has written a nice article in the Janesville Gazette for Wedesday recounting the saga of Tuesday nights sandwich board sign discussion at the Evansville City Council.
Click on the post for the full article.
What are your thoughts on this issue? You make the call.
Click on the post for the full article.
What are your thoughts on this issue? You make the call.
Gov Doyle's Tax freeze may be for only one year?
An article in the Wisconsin State Journal this morn speculates that since there will be no enforcement action possible in 2007, that some Wisconsin cities might disregard the tax freeze in the second year. The Republicans, seeing this, may propose legislation making sure that there is no slip up and that the enforcement lapse is corrected.
Click on the post to read the entire article.
Click on the post to read the entire article.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Housekeeping matters--
Click on the photos on this blog to get the larger version.
The archives on the right border will be good for six months. The posts and comments will be saved but I make no guarantees about any referenced links. Many newspapers that I refer to only keep the links for a limited time.
My reference to any link is for commentary and reference purposes only and to promote discussion; It does not constitute publication. Any major daily that wishes to link to reference my articles is welcome.
The Observer
The archives on the right border will be good for six months. The posts and comments will be saved but I make no guarantees about any referenced links. Many newspapers that I refer to only keep the links for a limited time.
My reference to any link is for commentary and reference purposes only and to promote discussion; It does not constitute publication. Any major daily that wishes to link to reference my articles is welcome.
The Observer
Concerts at the Lake---TONIGHT--6PM-- Community Band--Tues Aug 9th
On Tuesday August 9th The Evansville Community Band will be the featured attraction. Enjoy the lake before it is drained. Take time off from driving the detours to relax.
Concerts are sponsored by UB&T. Thanks UB&T.
Concerts are sponsored by UB&T. Thanks UB&T.
New DOT "RATS" system drives everyone nuts
The first day of the new "RATS" system conversion for DOT, I was in the Janesville office to make a title change. I saw the manual in the gentleman's hand with the "RATS" bold lettering on the front page. "That's a bad sign'" I said. "Yes, he said, It looks that way."
Soon after the system was installed, some of the staff in Janesville went on medical leave, and it occurred to me that the computer conversion may have been the cause. Anyway, plan on a longer wait, and have some patience with the staff there cause I know the conversion problems were not what they need this hot summer.
The "RATS" stands for Record And Title System.
Soon after the system was installed, some of the staff in Janesville went on medical leave, and it occurred to me that the computer conversion may have been the cause. Anyway, plan on a longer wait, and have some patience with the staff there cause I know the conversion problems were not what they need this hot summer.
The "RATS" stands for Record And Title System.
Affordable Housing Corner: When all that's left is Waterloo
Click on the post for an interesting article on housing affordability----Minneapolis is no longer affordable. I guess we all knew that. Waterloo, Iowa is one of the few places left to live that is affordable.
When all the service personnel---- nurses, firefighters, police, retail, etc workers of America can no longer buy homes except in Waterloo, Iowa, is that a sign or what?
When all the service personnel---- nurses, firefighters, police, retail, etc workers of America can no longer buy homes except in Waterloo, Iowa, is that a sign or what?
City Finance Committee Meets--Recommends approval of $3,250,000 Bond Financing
The Evansville Finance Committee met Tuesday, August 8, 2005 and recommended to the Common Council to approve General Obligation Debt totaling $3,250,000. Over $2,000,000 of this debt related to water and light projects, namely the West Side Well #3 project($1,000,000) and the electric substation ($1,100,000).
There was some discussion of the fact that the electric rates for Evansville are extremely low and that there will be a day when this will have to rise.
Included in the capital projects discussed were a new public works garage for exchange street($100,000), replacing an old structure that might be razed, and reconstruction of the Badger Drive and Higgins street area ($125,000) which is in bad shape and was not constructed properly.
The good news about growth is that the tax base is increasing. The bad news about growth always is that infrastructure needs are growing. The other bad news about growth is that it gets addictive and it may not last forever.
The way the debt is scheduled to be repaid, no principal will be repaid on the general obligation bond portion till 2011. Thus, there will not be a tax impact immediately for homeowners to expect. The city expects to again have a zero percent increase in its portion of the property tax this year due to the increase of tax base because of new building construction.
There was some discussion of the fact that the electric rates for Evansville are extremely low and that there will be a day when this will have to rise.
Included in the capital projects discussed were a new public works garage for exchange street($100,000), replacing an old structure that might be razed, and reconstruction of the Badger Drive and Higgins street area ($125,000) which is in bad shape and was not constructed properly.
The good news about growth is that the tax base is increasing. The bad news about growth always is that infrastructure needs are growing. The other bad news about growth is that it gets addictive and it may not last forever.
The way the debt is scheduled to be repaid, no principal will be repaid on the general obligation bond portion till 2011. Thus, there will not be a tax impact immediately for homeowners to expect. The city expects to again have a zero percent increase in its portion of the property tax this year due to the increase of tax base because of new building construction.
Housing Starts Drop 21% for Dane Co in July
The drop in housing starts for July in Dane Co. will be something to watch in the coming months. We see news about interest rates rising, discussion about possible cuts to city services in Madison as a result of the recent Wisconsin State budget, and a possible nationwide slowing of the housing boom.
Click on the post to read the article about the housing starts in the Wisconsin State Journal.
Click on the post to read the article about the housing starts in the Wisconsin State Journal.
Monday, August 08, 2005
All Eyes are on the San Diego housing market
SanDiego was the hottest housing market in the country in the past year. It now has cooled. Was up 30% in just one year. All eyes are on the current situation with an intensity like watching a stock ticker. Click on the post to read an article on the SanDiego housing market.
Sunday, August 07, 2005
Strange Story from Evansville
When you come across a REALLY strange story from Evansville, make sure you have the state right.
Re: Community living arrangements--Amendment to Ordinance 2005-35
--- Tim Schwecke <tim.schwecke@verizon.net> wrote:
> Bill Connors asked me to submit a response to your
> inquiry about Community
> living arrangements.
>
>
>
> The Evansville Plan Commission is considering a
> proposal to amend the City's
> zoning code that would change the minimum distance
> between community living
> arrangements (CLA). The term CLA is a reference to a
> class of residential
> housing and includes community-based residential
> facilities and group homes
> for children. Currently, the City's code says that
> CLAs must be 2,500 feet
> or more away from another CLA.
>
>
>
> The proposal would change that distance to 500 feet.
> Given the size of
> Evansville, the 2,500-foot restriction would
> preclude an adequate number of
> such facilities that may be needed to serve the
> needs of city residents.
> While it is possible for a person proposing a CLA to
> ask the Common Council
> to allow an exception to the 2,500-foot separation
> requirement, it is
> believed that such a process is unnecessary and
> would needlessly slow down
> the development process.
>
>
>
> The Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on
> September 6 at 6pm to
> consider this proposal. As part of the hearing, the
> Plan Commission will
> make a recommendation to the Common Council which
> will take final action.
> If you have any comments or questions about this
> proposal, you may contact
> Tim Schwecke, City Planner, at 920-728-2814 or
> attend the public hearing.
>
>
>
> Tim Schwecke, Evansville City Planner
>
>
>
>
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Friday, August 05, 2005
Larson Acres and Magnolia in mediation
Larson Acres and Magnolia are in mediation regarding their dispute about the number of animals allowed at their facility. To get the latest in this ongoing dispute, click on the post.
Kyle Schultz wins AAU weightlifting title
Kyle Schultz went to New Orleans and brought back the AAU weightlifting title for his weight. Bravo, Kyle. Click on the post for the entire story in the Janesville Gazette.
Financial Aid and Drugs
Financial Aid and Drugs
By Judge Thomas J. Alisankus
Students and parents alike should be aware that the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended in 1998, prohibits students convicted of ANY drug offense from being eligible for federal financial aid. Examples of this type of aid include Pell Grants (generally, a ‘grant’ is money that does not have to be paid back), as well as low-interest student loans. Any conviction—including a conviction in Municipal Court—for possessing even less than one ounce of marijuana, for example, will make students ineligible for this type of financial aid.
Currently, if a person has ever been convicted of possessing a controlled substance (such as marijuana) as a first offense, he or she will be ineligible for federal aid for one year from the date of conviction. A conviction for a second offense makes the person ineligible for two years, and a third offense makes the person ineligible for life. Penalties are even more severe for convictions of possession with intent to deliver (drug) offenses. Students must disclose convictions on the Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FASFA). There are provisions for ‘rehabilitation’ that would make the student eligible again; they include, among other requirements, drug counseling, and at least two random drug tests. If a random audit finds that a student failed to disclose a conviction, they would have to repay all monies related to the aid provided, and they would be ineligible for future federal aid.
Last Friday, a panel in the House of Representatives voted to amend the Act such that it would apply only if the conviction “occurred during a period of enrollment for which the student was receiving [federal aid]”. The full House must still vote on that amendment; if it passes the full House, it will be sent to the U.S. Senate. Ultimately, of course, the President would have to sign the amendment Act into law.
Parents or students with questions should contact their guidance counselor, or college admissions office.
By Judge Thomas J. Alisankus
Students and parents alike should be aware that the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended in 1998, prohibits students convicted of ANY drug offense from being eligible for federal financial aid. Examples of this type of aid include Pell Grants (generally, a ‘grant’ is money that does not have to be paid back), as well as low-interest student loans. Any conviction—including a conviction in Municipal Court—for possessing even less than one ounce of marijuana, for example, will make students ineligible for this type of financial aid.
Currently, if a person has ever been convicted of possessing a controlled substance (such as marijuana) as a first offense, he or she will be ineligible for federal aid for one year from the date of conviction. A conviction for a second offense makes the person ineligible for two years, and a third offense makes the person ineligible for life. Penalties are even more severe for convictions of possession with intent to deliver (drug) offenses. Students must disclose convictions on the Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FASFA). There are provisions for ‘rehabilitation’ that would make the student eligible again; they include, among other requirements, drug counseling, and at least two random drug tests. If a random audit finds that a student failed to disclose a conviction, they would have to repay all monies related to the aid provided, and they would be ineligible for future federal aid.
Last Friday, a panel in the House of Representatives voted to amend the Act such that it would apply only if the conviction “occurred during a period of enrollment for which the student was receiving [federal aid]”. The full House must still vote on that amendment; if it passes the full House, it will be sent to the U.S. Senate. Ultimately, of course, the President would have to sign the amendment Act into law.
Parents or students with questions should contact their guidance counselor, or college admissions office.
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Bill Proposed to make gift cards with expiration dates illegal
Have you ever received a gift card for yoga lessons with the condition that you have to use the lessons withing 60 or 90 days? Then you have a problem using all the lessons within the time period. That type of gift card will not be legal if the new law is passed. It has 59 sponsors and looks to be very popular. The legislators are interested in getting feedback from merchants and the public.
Click on the post to read the full story in the Janesville Gazette.
Click on the post to read the full story in the Janesville Gazette.
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
San Francisco Adopts Green Building Standards for Low Income Housing--First in Nation
SanFrancisco is out to make a point---that a city can build "green" environmentally friendly housing and at the same time make it affordable. They announced today that they have adopted a whole set of "green" building standards that they will implement on all low income housing. They have become the first city in the nation to do so.
It would be interesting to get the details of these standards for our fair city to see what changes would have to be made to follow suit. Anyway, it is a story to follow. Click on the post to read the entire story.
It would be interesting to get the details of these standards for our fair city to see what changes would have to be made to follow suit. Anyway, it is a story to follow. Click on the post to read the entire story.
Closely Watched Ohio Congressional Contest Signals Fierce Political Battle in 2006
The narrow Republican victory in a Ohio congressional race in a district that had previously enjoyed 70% margin Republican victories is signaling that the upcoming 2006 congressional election may be exciting to watch. The Democratic challenger in the Ohio race was an Iraq war vetern who critized President Bush's handling of the Iraq war. Click on the post to read the entire story.
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