I was surprised to see the Villages on the Rum Board's letter to the Editor arguing for the direct appointment to the City Council of Jeff Kolb. http://www.isanticountynews.com/readersforum.html I did not realize Home Owners Associations were so politically active.
Unfortunately there are several factual mistakes in their letter. The upper end of their estimate of $4,000 is equivalent to the cost of a full city election from past years. The exact amount will be forth coming as soon as it is calculated by City Staff. Secondly several individuals have stated they would donate the cost of the election to the City so there would be no expense to the taxpayer. If these pledges fall through I will not take any pay as Mayor until the election is paid for. I have refused pay for my services on the Planning Commission, already saving the City over $500. Lastly if an appointment is decided upon, there is no way to bind the Council to appoint a specific person to the open seat.
The appointment is attractive because it is expedient. There are several issues with the direct appoint however. First we are setting precedent. Jeff’s appointment would be nice because he lost by only a few votes to the second place finisher. What if he had lost by 300 votes? What is the standard or does it not matter. Secondly we are looking at the law and without a special election ordinance on the books the Council may not be able to even call a special election. Thirdly as I have stated if the appointment option is decided upon then the new Council may appoint anyone they choose. I, as many others, would hope if the Council chooses to make an appointment then it would be the third place finisher. Lastly the vote was for two Council positions not three. 1305 people voted on election day, this equates to 2610 total Council votes because each person could vote for two candidates. The vote was so split the first place finisher received only 18% of the 2610 possible votes. 17.5% of the total votes were cast for no candidate. 13% were cast for the second place and third place finishers.
It would be the fairest to let the voters make a first choice to serve on the Council not to take the third choice from a past election. I would like to see a consensus pick from the whole City. How long is to long for an appointed position. If the seat had come open with three years left do we take the third place finisher from the last election even though it is a year old? We are setting City Policy and must make sure it is correct.
We need to take a breath and let all the facts come forward before some start making erroneous assumptions. If allowed by law we should call for a special election. We are setting precedent for future Councils. Our greatest right is to vote for our leaders not to allow others to appoint them. With no cost to the taxpayers why not allow the Voters of Isanti to exercise their rights. Perhaps I am wrong, but it is odd to be forced to make the arguement that voting for an elected official is the right thing to do.
About Me
- George
- I have served the City of Isanti as Mayor since 2007. We have accomplished great things together and I look forward to building on our success. United, we move forward to a better future. You may contact me at 763-442-8749 or e-mail me at george@georgewimmer.com.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Thank you
I want to thank the Citizens of Isanti for letting me serve. I have been blessed in my life and hope we can all take a moment to reflect on our blessings. We are spending another Thanksgiving and holiday season with brave men and women in harms way. Please reach out to our Veteran families.
In the post immediately after this one I have published a couple Presidential Thanksgiving Decrees and the first ever Thanksgiving Decree with a couple quotes mixed in.
In the post immediately after this one I have published a couple Presidential Thanksgiving Decrees and the first ever Thanksgiving Decree with a couple quotes mixed in.
Thanksgiving Thoughts
The First Thanksgiving Day Proclamation
The Holy God having by a long and Continual Series of his Afflictive dispensations in and by the present Warr with the Heathen Natives of this land, written and brought to pass bitter things against his own Covenant people in this wilderness, yet so that we evidently discern that in the midst of his judgements he hath remembered mercy, having remembered his Footstool in the day of his sore displeasure against us for our sins, with many singular Intimations of his Fatherly Compassion, and regard; reserving many of our Towns from Desolation Threatened, and attempted by the Enemy, and giving us especially of late with many of our Confederates many signal Advantages against them, without such Disadvantage to ourselves as formerly we have been sensible of, if it be the Lord's mercy that we are not consumed, It certainly bespeaks our positive Thankfulness, when our Enemies are in any measure disappointed or destroyed; and fearing the Lord should take notice under so many Intimations of his returning mercy, we should be found an Insensible people, as not standing before Him with Thanksgiving, as well as lading him with our Complaints in the time of pressing Afflictions:
The Council has thought meet to appoint and set apart the 29th day of this instant June, as a day of Solemn Thanksgiving and praise to God for such his Goodness and Favour, many Particulars of which mercy might be Instanced, but we doubt not those who are sensible of God's Afflictions, have been as diligent to espy him returning to us; and that the Lord may behold us as a People offering Praise and thereby glorifying Him; the Council doth commend it to the Respective Ministers, Elders and people of this Jurisdiction; Solemnly and seriously to keep the same Beseeching that being persuaded by the mercies of God we may all, even this whole people offer up our bodies and souls as a living and acceptable Service unto God by Jesus Christ.
-Date: June 20, 1676
-By: Governing council of Charlestown, Massachusetts
-By: Governing council of Charlestown, Massachusetts
*
President Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation
The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God.In the midst of a civil war of unequalled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.
Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle, or the ship; the axe had enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom. No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things.
They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American People. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.
And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.
It is the duty of nations as well as of men to own their dependence upon the overruling power of God; to confess their sins and transgressions in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon; and to recognize the sublime truth, announced in the Holy Scriptures and proven by all history, that those nations are blessed whose God is the Lord.
- Abraham Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation October 3, 1863
Once, when my feet were bare, and I had not the means of obtaining shoes I came to the chief of Kufah in a state of much dejection, and saw there a man who had no feet. I returned thanks to God and acknowledged his mercies, and endured my want of shoes with patience
- Sadi, The Gulistan
Do not get tired of doing what is good. Don't get discouraged and give up, For we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time.
- Galatians 6:9
For flowers that bloom about our feet;For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;For song of bird, and hum of bee;For all things fair we hear or see,Father in heaven, we thank Thee!
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
"Some people complain because God put thorns on roses, while others praise Him for putting roses among thorns."
-Anonymous
Since the Pilgrims observed the initial Thanksgiving holiday in 1621, this occasion has served as a singular expression of the transcending spiritual values that played an instrumental part in the founding of our country.
One hundred and twenty years ago, in the midst of a great and terrible civil conflict, President Lincoln formally proclaimed a national day of Thanksgiving to remind those "insensible to the ever watchful providence of almighty God" of this Nation's bounty and greatness. Several days after the dedication of the Gettysburg battlefield, the United States celebrated its first national Thanksgiving.
Every year since then, our Nation has faithfully continued this tradition. The time has come once again to proclaim a day of thanksgiving, an occasion for Americans to express gratitude to their God and their country.In his remarks at Gettysburg, President Lincoln referred to ours as a Nation "under God."
We rejoice in the fact that, while we have maintained separate institutions of church and state over our 200 years of freedom, we have at the same time preserved reverence for spiritual beliefs. Although we are a pluralistic society, the giving of thanks can be a true bond of unity among our people. We can unite in gratitude for our individual freedoms and individual faiths. We can be united in gratitude for our Nation's peace and prosperity when so many in this world have neither.
As was written in the first Thanksgiving Proclamation 120 years ago, "No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God." God has blessed America and her people, and it is appropriate we recognize this bounty.
Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, in the spirit of the Pilgrims, President Lincoln, and all succeeding Presidents, do hereby proclaim Thursday, November 24, 1983, as a National Day of Thanksgiving, and I call upon Americans to affirm this day of thanks by their prayers and their gratitude for the many blessings upon this land and its people.
-Thanksgiving Day Proclamation 1983
-By: Ronald Reagan
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
2007 Street Improvement Project
We had the discussion on the 2007 street improvement project. Unfortunately we were unable to come to agreement on taking the money for the sidewalks on the low traffic streets of Elizabeth and Broadway areas and use it to build sidewalks on busier streets such as county highway 5 and 23. I had asked for this but the Council voted 3-2 to keep the $126,300 for the sidewalks in this area instead of along 5 and 23.
The street project had to pass by at least a 4-1 vote, so the whole project failed on the 3-2 vote. The parts of the project centering on replacing bad clay sewers, road repair and such needs to pass the Council. We also need to follow through on extending sidewalk along 5 and 23. I will be asking to have this item brought before Council when I am sworn in as Mayor if an agreement can not be reached before.
The street project had to pass by at least a 4-1 vote, so the whole project failed on the 3-2 vote. The parts of the project centering on replacing bad clay sewers, road repair and such needs to pass the Council. We also need to follow through on extending sidewalk along 5 and 23. I will be asking to have this item brought before Council when I am sworn in as Mayor if an agreement can not be reached before.
City Hall Rain Garden
The Cambridge Star is running an article on rain gardens. I have proposed Isanti City Hall include a rain garden to capture its water run off. The City is planning on installing gutters to City Hall. The rain garden would capture this water in an environmentally friendly manner. Another benefit to the rain garden is the aesthetic appeal it will have.
Rain gardens have tremendous benefits. Using City Hall as a pilot project will help show residents the ease and benefits of using rain gardens. Here is a link to Minneapolis rain garden information. http://www.ci.mpls.mn.us/cso/rain-garden.asp
There are many sites with useful information. Please explore these option and contact me with any questions.
Rain gardens have tremendous benefits. Using City Hall as a pilot project will help show residents the ease and benefits of using rain gardens. Here is a link to Minneapolis rain garden information. http://www.ci.mpls.mn.us/cso/rain-garden.asp
There are many sites with useful information. Please explore these option and contact me with any questions.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Economic News
Interesting economic news showing housing will continue its decline.
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/E/ECONOMIC_OUTLOOK?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/E/ECONOMIC_OUTLOOK?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT
Sunday, November 19, 2006
2007 Street Improvement Project
The City Council will be discussing and voting on the 2007 Street Improvement Project on November 21st. This covers the areas in an around Elizabeth and Broadway. I have spoken against adding new sidewalk at a cost of over $126,000 on these low traffic streets. This area of Isanti is one of the few that have mature trees that would be destroyed in the construction of the Sidewalk. The 126,000 plus would be much better spent on sidewalks and trails along County Highways 5 and 23.
Monday Workshop
The Council will be meeting for a workshop Monday at 7pm. We will be discussing Isanti's qualification for state aid money now that we have a population over 5,000. This will add a bit more state money to our streets budget.
The other issue we will be discussing is a proposal from PCS Wireless to lease space on the Water tower for a cell antenna.
The other issue we will be discussing is a proposal from PCS Wireless to lease space on the Water tower for a cell antenna.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Open Seat Update
It is starting to look as though the only way a special election can happen is if the council passes an ordinance setting the parameters of a special election. We are still waiting for the official comments form the City Attorney but state law seems to say that unless called for by city ordinance the only time you have a special election is during a general election.
That would really only come into play if a person was appointed before a general election not anytime after. I will be asking that the Council discuss an ordinance for special elections and for setting primaries.
Setting the rules for a primary is important so we do not run into the issue of so many candidates in a general election and candidates being elected with less than 20% of the vote. This is part of the overall City Reform package. It is important we get it right so a good precedent is set for future generations.
That would really only come into play if a person was appointed before a general election not anytime after. I will be asking that the Council discuss an ordinance for special elections and for setting primaries.
Setting the rules for a primary is important so we do not run into the issue of so many candidates in a general election and candidates being elected with less than 20% of the vote. This is part of the overall City Reform package. It is important we get it right so a good precedent is set for future generations.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Open Seat
There is a strong push on to appoint someone to the open council seat in January. If the Council decides to appoint there is no guarantee that the person appointed would be the third place finisher Jeff Kolb. I like Jeff. He would make a great choice for Council. The Council could appoint anyone they choose however.
Before there is more thought given to appointment vs the special election I am asking for, lets wait to get all the relevant information. First we have to have a decision from the City Attorney on the legality of appointment and a cost quote on the election.
The person will serve for two years; this is to long for an appointed person. Once a person is appointed they will have the power of incumbency if they choose to run for election again. We are also setting a precedent for Councils to come. Elections are the only way to ensure legitimacy. We may not always like the results but we must protect the democratic process.
As we get all the information I will update you.
Before there is more thought given to appointment vs the special election I am asking for, lets wait to get all the relevant information. First we have to have a decision from the City Attorney on the legality of appointment and a cost quote on the election.
The person will serve for two years; this is to long for an appointed person. Once a person is appointed they will have the power of incumbency if they choose to run for election again. We are also setting a precedent for Councils to come. Elections are the only way to ensure legitimacy. We may not always like the results but we must protect the democratic process.
As we get all the information I will update you.
Budget Issues
Isanti's building permits and revenue are down 40% year to date. This has been a significant source of revenue for the last 5 years. We will be faced with tough budget decisions.
This is again proof positive that the city's spending spree has to end. The final budget will be coming up in December. We will need to cut back on city spending or we will have undue burdens going into 2007.
After specific cuts are made we will need to focus 2007 on long term financial planning and commercial growth. Isanti has a glut of existing homes, newly built homes and over 500 approved platted homes in the pipeline. This will cause home values of existing houses to decrease. Another side effect as people are unable to sell their homes they will rent them. To high a percentage of rental properties cause problems of its own.
The Council must move quickly to address these issues.
This is again proof positive that the city's spending spree has to end. The final budget will be coming up in December. We will need to cut back on city spending or we will have undue burdens going into 2007.
After specific cuts are made we will need to focus 2007 on long term financial planning and commercial growth. Isanti has a glut of existing homes, newly built homes and over 500 approved platted homes in the pipeline. This will cause home values of existing houses to decrease. Another side effect as people are unable to sell their homes they will rent them. To high a percentage of rental properties cause problems of its own.
The Council must move quickly to address these issues.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Thank you
I want to thank all the volunteers and supporters that worked hard for our win on November 7th. I am humbled by the level of support I received from Isanti voters. Our specific agenda of Citizen Safety, Economic Reform and Responsible City Government and all it entails led to our success. We have a lot of hard work to do in the years to come but together we can lay the foundation for Isanti’s future.
The Council will be meeting in January in goal setting sessions. I will lay out specifics of the agenda at that time. In the past two years the goal setting session lasted 4 hours on one day. The amount of work we have to do will determine how many day long sessions we will need to get the work done. The success or failure of the goal setting sessions be critical to our future.
I will also want to hear from those with suggestions for improvements. I will be meeting with individuals and groups to discuss the Agenda and listen to outside analysis. If you would like to be part of that process please let me know.
I will keep you updated
The Council will be meeting in January in goal setting sessions. I will lay out specifics of the agenda at that time. In the past two years the goal setting session lasted 4 hours on one day. The amount of work we have to do will determine how many day long sessions we will need to get the work done. The success or failure of the goal setting sessions be critical to our future.
I will also want to hear from those with suggestions for improvements. I will be meeting with individuals and groups to discuss the Agenda and listen to outside analysis. If you would like to be part of that process please let me know.
I will keep you updated
Friday, November 10, 2006
Veteran's Day Quotes and Speeches
But the freedom that they fought for, and the country grand they wrought for,Is their monument to-day, and for aye.
~Thomas Dunn English
In war, there are no unwounded soldiers.
~José Narosky
This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.
~Elmer Davis
But fame is theirs - and future days On pillar'd brass shall tell their praise; Shall tell - when cold neglect is dead -"These for their country fought and bled."
~Philip Freneau
Freedom is never free.
~Author Unknown
I think there is one higher office than president and I would call that patriot.
~Gary Hart
When our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep?
~George Canning
As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.
~John Fitzgerald Kennedy
Valor is stability, not of legs and arms, but of courage and the soul.
~Michel de Montaigne
I dream of giving birth to a child who will ask, "Mother, what was war?"
~Eve Merriam
We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.
~Cynthia Ozick
Lord, bid war's trumpet cease;Fold the whole earth in peace.
~Oliver Wendell Holmes
How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!
~Maya Angelou
When eating bamboo sprouts, remember the man who planted them.
~Chinese Proverb
The most persistent sound which reverberates through men's history is the beating of war drums.
~Arthur Koestler, Janus: A Summing Up
The more we sweat in peace the less we bleed in war.
~Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit
Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of readiness to die. ~G.K. Chesterton
In the beginning of a change, the patriot is a scarce man, and brave, and hated and scorned. When his cause succeeds, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a patriot.
~Mark Twain, Notebook, 1935
How far that little candle throws his beams!So shines a good deed in a weary world.
~William Shakespeare
In war there is no prize for the runner-up
- General Omar Bradley
It is fatal to enter any war without the will to win it.
- General Douglas MacArthur
I know not with what weapons World War III will befought, but World War IV will be fought with sticks and stones.
- Albert Einstein
You can no more win a war than you can win an earthquake.
- Jeannette Rankinfirst woman Member of Congress
It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace--but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? Whatis it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty orgive me death!
- Patrick HenryMarch 23,1775
President Reagan's 40th Anniversary of D-Day (June 6, 1984)
We're here to mark that day in history when the Allied armies joined in battle to reclaim this continent to liberty. For 4 long years, much of Europe had been under a terrible shadow. Free nations had fallen, Jews cried out in the camps, millions cried out for liberation. Europe was enslaved, and the world prayed for its rescue. Here in Normandy the rescue began. Here the Allies stood and fought against tyranny in a giant undertaking unparalleled in human history.
We stand on a lonely, windswept point on the northern shore of France. The air is soft, but 40 years ago at this moment, the air was dense with smoke and the cries of men, and the air was filled with the crack of rifle fire and the roar of cannon. At dawn, on the morning of the 6th of June, 1944, 225 Rangers jumped off the British landing craft and ran to the bottom of these cliffs. Their mission was one of the most difficult and daring of the invasion: to climb these sheer and desolate cliffs and take out the enemy guns. The Allies had been told that some of the mightiest of these guns were here and they would be trained on the beaches to stop the Allied advance.
The Rangers looked up and saw the enemy soldiers -- the edge of the cliffs shooting down at them with machineguns and throwing grenades. And the American Rangers began to climb. They shot rope ladders over the face of these cliffs and began to pull themselves up. When one Ranger fell, another would take his place. When one rope was cut, a Ranger would grab another and begin his climb again. They climbed, shot back, and held their footing. Soon, one by one, the Rangers pulled themselves over the top, and in seizing the firm land at the top of these cliffs, they began to seize back the continent of Europe. Two hundred and twenty-five came here. After 2 days of fighting, only 90 could still bear arms.
Behind me is a memorial that symbolizes the Ranger daggers that were thrust into the top of these cliffs. And before me are the men who put them there.
These are the boys of Pointe du Hoc. These are the men who took the cliffs. These are the champions who helped free a continent. These are the heroes who helped end a war.
Gentlemen, I look at you and I think of the words of Stephen Spender's poem. You are men who in your ``lives fought for life . . . and left the vivid air signed with your honor.''
I think I know what you may be thinking right now -- thinking ``we were just part of a bigger effort; everyone was brave that day.'' Well, everyone was. Do you remember the story of Bill Millin of the 51st Highlanders? Forty years ago today, British troops were pinned down near a bridge, waiting desperately for help. Suddenly, they heard the sound of bagpipes, and some thought they were dreaming. Well, they weren't. They looked up and saw Bill Millin with his bagpipes, leading the reinforcements and ignoring the smack of the bullets into the ground around him.
Lord Lovat was with him -- Lord Lovat of Scotland, who calmly announced when he got to the bridge, ``Sorry I'm a few minutes late,'' as if he'd been delayed by a traffic jam, when in truth he'd just come from the bloody fighting on Sword Beach, which he and his men had just taken.
There was the impossible valor of the Poles who threw themselves between the enemy and the rest of Europe as the invasion took hold, and the unsurpassed courage of the Canadians who had already seen the horrors of war on this coast. They knew what awaited them there, but they would not be deterred. And once they hit Juno Beach, they never looked back.
All of these men were part of a rollcall of honor with names that spoke of a pride as bright as the colors they bore: the Royal Winnipeg Rifles, Poland's 24th Lancers, the Royal Scots Fusiliers, the Screaming Eagles, the Yeomen of England's armored divisions, the forces of Free France, the Coast Guard's ``Matchbox Fleet'' and you, the American Rangers.
Forty summers have passed since the battle that you fought here. You were young the day you took these cliffs; some of you were hardly more than boys, with the deepest joys of life before you. Yet, you risked everything here. Why? Why did you do it? What impelled you to put aside the instinct for self-preservation and risk your lives to take these cliffs? What inspired all the men of the armies that met here? We look at you, and somehow we know the answer. It was faith and belief; it was loyalty and love.
The men of Normandy had faith that what they were doing was right, faith that they fought for all humanity, faith that a just God would grant them mercy on this beachhead or on the next. It was the deep knowledge -- and pray God we have not lost it -- that there is a profound, moral difference between the use of force for liberation and the use of force for conquest. You were here to liberate, not to conquer, and so you and those others did not doubt your cause. And you were right not to doubt.
You all knew that some things are worth dying for. One's country is worth dying for, and democracy is worth dying for, because it's the most deeply honorable form of government ever devised by man. All of you loved liberty. All of you were willing to fight tyranny, and you knew the people of your countries were behind you.
The Americans who fought here that morning knew word of the invasion was spreading through the darkness back home. They fought -- or felt in their hearts, though they couldn't know in fact, that in Georgia they were filling the churches at 4 a.m., in Kansas they were kneeling on their porches and praying, and in Philadelphia they were ringing the Liberty Bell.
Something else helped the men of D-day: their rockhard belief that Providence would have a great hand in the events that would unfold here; that God was an ally in this great cause. And so, the night before the invasion, when Colonel Wolverton asked his parachute troops to kneel with him in prayer he told them: Do not bow your heads, but look up so you can see God and ask His blessing in what we're about to do. Also that night, General Matthew Ridgway on his cot, listening in the darkness for the promise God made to Joshua: ``I will not fail thee nor forsake thee.''
These are the things that impelled them; these are the things that shaped the unity of the Allies.
When the war was over, there were lives to be rebuilt and governments to be returned to the people. There were nations to be reborn. Above all, there was a new peace to be assured. These were huge and daunting tasks. But the Allies summoned strength from the faith, belief, loyalty, and love of those who fell here. They rebuilt a new Europe together.
There was first a great reconciliation among those who had been enemies, all of whom had suffered so greatly. The United States did its part, creating the Marshall plan to help rebuild our allies and our former enemies. The Marshall plan led to the Atlantic alliance -- a great alliance that serves to this day as our shield for freedom, for prosperity, and for peace.
In spite of our great efforts and successes, not all that followed the end of the war was happy or planned. Some liberated countries were lost. The great sadness of this loss echoes down to our own time in the streets of Warsaw, Prague, and East Berlin. Soviet troops that came to the center of this continent did not leave when peace came. They're still there, uninvited, unwanted, unyielding, almost 40 years after the war. Because of this, allied forces still stand on this continent. Today, as 40 years ago, our armies are here for only one purpose -- to protect and defend democracy. The only territories we hold are memorials like this one and graveyards where our heroes rest.
We in America have learned bitter lessons from two World Wars: It is better to be here ready to protect the peace, than to take blind shelter across the sea, rushing to respond only after freedom is lost. We've learned that isolationism never was and never will be an acceptable response to tyrannical governments with an expansionist intent.
But we try always to be prepared for peace; prepared to deter aggression; prepared to negotiate the reduction of arms; and, yes, prepared to reach out again in the spirit of reconciliation. In truth, there is no reconciliation we would welcome more than a reconciliation with the Soviet Union, so, together, we can lessen the risks of war, now and forever.
It's fitting to remember here the great losses also suffered by the Russian people during World War II: 20 million perished, a terrible price that testifies to all the world the necessity of ending war. I tell you from my heart that we in the United States do not want war. We want to wipe from the face of the Earth the terrible weapons that man now has in his hands. And I tell you, we are ready to seize that beachhead. We look for some sign from the Soviet Union that they are willing to move forward, that they share our desire and love for peace, and that they will give up the ways of conquest. There must be a changing there that will allow us to turn our hope into action.
We will pray forever that some day that changing will come. But for now, particularly today, it is good and fitting to renew our commitment to each other, to our freedom, and to the alliance that protects it.
We are bound today by what bound us 40 years ago, the same loyalties, traditions, and beliefs. We're bound by reality. The strength of America's allies is vital to the United States, and the American security guarantee is essential to the continued freedom of Europe's democracies. We were with you then; we are with you now. Your hopes are our hopes, and your destiny is our destiny.
Here, in this place where the West held together, let us make a vow to our dead. Let us show them by our actions that we understand what they died for. Let our actions say to them the words for which Matthew Ridgway listened: ``I will not fail thee nor forsake thee.''
Strengthened by their courage, heartened by their value [valor], and borne by their memory, let us continue to stand for the ideals for which they lived and died.
Thank you very much, and God bless you all.
~Thomas Dunn English
In war, there are no unwounded soldiers.
~José Narosky
This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.
~Elmer Davis
But fame is theirs - and future days On pillar'd brass shall tell their praise; Shall tell - when cold neglect is dead -"These for their country fought and bled."
~Philip Freneau
Freedom is never free.
~Author Unknown
I think there is one higher office than president and I would call that patriot.
~Gary Hart
When our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep?
~George Canning
As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.
~John Fitzgerald Kennedy
Valor is stability, not of legs and arms, but of courage and the soul.
~Michel de Montaigne
I dream of giving birth to a child who will ask, "Mother, what was war?"
~Eve Merriam
We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.
~Cynthia Ozick
Lord, bid war's trumpet cease;Fold the whole earth in peace.
~Oliver Wendell Holmes
How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!
~Maya Angelou
When eating bamboo sprouts, remember the man who planted them.
~Chinese Proverb
The most persistent sound which reverberates through men's history is the beating of war drums.
~Arthur Koestler, Janus: A Summing Up
The more we sweat in peace the less we bleed in war.
~Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit
Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of readiness to die. ~G.K. Chesterton
In the beginning of a change, the patriot is a scarce man, and brave, and hated and scorned. When his cause succeeds, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a patriot.
~Mark Twain, Notebook, 1935
How far that little candle throws his beams!So shines a good deed in a weary world.
~William Shakespeare
In war there is no prize for the runner-up
- General Omar Bradley
It is fatal to enter any war without the will to win it.
- General Douglas MacArthur
I know not with what weapons World War III will befought, but World War IV will be fought with sticks and stones.
- Albert Einstein
You can no more win a war than you can win an earthquake.
- Jeannette Rankinfirst woman Member of Congress
It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace--but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? Whatis it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty orgive me death!
- Patrick HenryMarch 23,1775
President Reagan's 40th Anniversary of D-Day (June 6, 1984)
We're here to mark that day in history when the Allied armies joined in battle to reclaim this continent to liberty. For 4 long years, much of Europe had been under a terrible shadow. Free nations had fallen, Jews cried out in the camps, millions cried out for liberation. Europe was enslaved, and the world prayed for its rescue. Here in Normandy the rescue began. Here the Allies stood and fought against tyranny in a giant undertaking unparalleled in human history.
We stand on a lonely, windswept point on the northern shore of France. The air is soft, but 40 years ago at this moment, the air was dense with smoke and the cries of men, and the air was filled with the crack of rifle fire and the roar of cannon. At dawn, on the morning of the 6th of June, 1944, 225 Rangers jumped off the British landing craft and ran to the bottom of these cliffs. Their mission was one of the most difficult and daring of the invasion: to climb these sheer and desolate cliffs and take out the enemy guns. The Allies had been told that some of the mightiest of these guns were here and they would be trained on the beaches to stop the Allied advance.
The Rangers looked up and saw the enemy soldiers -- the edge of the cliffs shooting down at them with machineguns and throwing grenades. And the American Rangers began to climb. They shot rope ladders over the face of these cliffs and began to pull themselves up. When one Ranger fell, another would take his place. When one rope was cut, a Ranger would grab another and begin his climb again. They climbed, shot back, and held their footing. Soon, one by one, the Rangers pulled themselves over the top, and in seizing the firm land at the top of these cliffs, they began to seize back the continent of Europe. Two hundred and twenty-five came here. After 2 days of fighting, only 90 could still bear arms.
Behind me is a memorial that symbolizes the Ranger daggers that were thrust into the top of these cliffs. And before me are the men who put them there.
These are the boys of Pointe du Hoc. These are the men who took the cliffs. These are the champions who helped free a continent. These are the heroes who helped end a war.
Gentlemen, I look at you and I think of the words of Stephen Spender's poem. You are men who in your ``lives fought for life . . . and left the vivid air signed with your honor.''
I think I know what you may be thinking right now -- thinking ``we were just part of a bigger effort; everyone was brave that day.'' Well, everyone was. Do you remember the story of Bill Millin of the 51st Highlanders? Forty years ago today, British troops were pinned down near a bridge, waiting desperately for help. Suddenly, they heard the sound of bagpipes, and some thought they were dreaming. Well, they weren't. They looked up and saw Bill Millin with his bagpipes, leading the reinforcements and ignoring the smack of the bullets into the ground around him.
Lord Lovat was with him -- Lord Lovat of Scotland, who calmly announced when he got to the bridge, ``Sorry I'm a few minutes late,'' as if he'd been delayed by a traffic jam, when in truth he'd just come from the bloody fighting on Sword Beach, which he and his men had just taken.
There was the impossible valor of the Poles who threw themselves between the enemy and the rest of Europe as the invasion took hold, and the unsurpassed courage of the Canadians who had already seen the horrors of war on this coast. They knew what awaited them there, but they would not be deterred. And once they hit Juno Beach, they never looked back.
All of these men were part of a rollcall of honor with names that spoke of a pride as bright as the colors they bore: the Royal Winnipeg Rifles, Poland's 24th Lancers, the Royal Scots Fusiliers, the Screaming Eagles, the Yeomen of England's armored divisions, the forces of Free France, the Coast Guard's ``Matchbox Fleet'' and you, the American Rangers.
Forty summers have passed since the battle that you fought here. You were young the day you took these cliffs; some of you were hardly more than boys, with the deepest joys of life before you. Yet, you risked everything here. Why? Why did you do it? What impelled you to put aside the instinct for self-preservation and risk your lives to take these cliffs? What inspired all the men of the armies that met here? We look at you, and somehow we know the answer. It was faith and belief; it was loyalty and love.
The men of Normandy had faith that what they were doing was right, faith that they fought for all humanity, faith that a just God would grant them mercy on this beachhead or on the next. It was the deep knowledge -- and pray God we have not lost it -- that there is a profound, moral difference between the use of force for liberation and the use of force for conquest. You were here to liberate, not to conquer, and so you and those others did not doubt your cause. And you were right not to doubt.
You all knew that some things are worth dying for. One's country is worth dying for, and democracy is worth dying for, because it's the most deeply honorable form of government ever devised by man. All of you loved liberty. All of you were willing to fight tyranny, and you knew the people of your countries were behind you.
The Americans who fought here that morning knew word of the invasion was spreading through the darkness back home. They fought -- or felt in their hearts, though they couldn't know in fact, that in Georgia they were filling the churches at 4 a.m., in Kansas they were kneeling on their porches and praying, and in Philadelphia they were ringing the Liberty Bell.
Something else helped the men of D-day: their rockhard belief that Providence would have a great hand in the events that would unfold here; that God was an ally in this great cause. And so, the night before the invasion, when Colonel Wolverton asked his parachute troops to kneel with him in prayer he told them: Do not bow your heads, but look up so you can see God and ask His blessing in what we're about to do. Also that night, General Matthew Ridgway on his cot, listening in the darkness for the promise God made to Joshua: ``I will not fail thee nor forsake thee.''
These are the things that impelled them; these are the things that shaped the unity of the Allies.
When the war was over, there were lives to be rebuilt and governments to be returned to the people. There were nations to be reborn. Above all, there was a new peace to be assured. These were huge and daunting tasks. But the Allies summoned strength from the faith, belief, loyalty, and love of those who fell here. They rebuilt a new Europe together.
There was first a great reconciliation among those who had been enemies, all of whom had suffered so greatly. The United States did its part, creating the Marshall plan to help rebuild our allies and our former enemies. The Marshall plan led to the Atlantic alliance -- a great alliance that serves to this day as our shield for freedom, for prosperity, and for peace.
In spite of our great efforts and successes, not all that followed the end of the war was happy or planned. Some liberated countries were lost. The great sadness of this loss echoes down to our own time in the streets of Warsaw, Prague, and East Berlin. Soviet troops that came to the center of this continent did not leave when peace came. They're still there, uninvited, unwanted, unyielding, almost 40 years after the war. Because of this, allied forces still stand on this continent. Today, as 40 years ago, our armies are here for only one purpose -- to protect and defend democracy. The only territories we hold are memorials like this one and graveyards where our heroes rest.
We in America have learned bitter lessons from two World Wars: It is better to be here ready to protect the peace, than to take blind shelter across the sea, rushing to respond only after freedom is lost. We've learned that isolationism never was and never will be an acceptable response to tyrannical governments with an expansionist intent.
But we try always to be prepared for peace; prepared to deter aggression; prepared to negotiate the reduction of arms; and, yes, prepared to reach out again in the spirit of reconciliation. In truth, there is no reconciliation we would welcome more than a reconciliation with the Soviet Union, so, together, we can lessen the risks of war, now and forever.
It's fitting to remember here the great losses also suffered by the Russian people during World War II: 20 million perished, a terrible price that testifies to all the world the necessity of ending war. I tell you from my heart that we in the United States do not want war. We want to wipe from the face of the Earth the terrible weapons that man now has in his hands. And I tell you, we are ready to seize that beachhead. We look for some sign from the Soviet Union that they are willing to move forward, that they share our desire and love for peace, and that they will give up the ways of conquest. There must be a changing there that will allow us to turn our hope into action.
We will pray forever that some day that changing will come. But for now, particularly today, it is good and fitting to renew our commitment to each other, to our freedom, and to the alliance that protects it.
We are bound today by what bound us 40 years ago, the same loyalties, traditions, and beliefs. We're bound by reality. The strength of America's allies is vital to the United States, and the American security guarantee is essential to the continued freedom of Europe's democracies. We were with you then; we are with you now. Your hopes are our hopes, and your destiny is our destiny.
Here, in this place where the West held together, let us make a vow to our dead. Let us show them by our actions that we understand what they died for. Let our actions say to them the words for which Matthew Ridgway listened: ``I will not fail thee nor forsake thee.''
Strengthened by their courage, heartened by their value [valor], and borne by their memory, let us continue to stand for the ideals for which they lived and died.
Thank you very much, and God bless you all.
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Interesting Election Facts
I found the voter breakdown interesting. There were 1305 possible votes for Mayor of this 79 people did not vote for either candidate. This equals 6% of the people that showed up to vote did not like their options.
This is more profound for the Council Race. There were 2610 possible votes because each person had two possible Council votes. 459 votes were not cast for any candidate. This equals 18% of all that showed up to vote did not like the options. This could be one person voting for no one so two votes not cast or a person only voting for one candidate and one vote not cast. With such a close council race this matters greatly.
Thought you might be interested......
This is more profound for the Council Race. There were 2610 possible votes because each person had two possible Council votes. 459 votes were not cast for any candidate. This equals 18% of all that showed up to vote did not like the options. This could be one person voting for no one so two votes not cast or a person only voting for one candidate and one vote not cast. With such a close council race this matters greatly.
Thought you might be interested......
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
E-mail List
I have had numerous request about being added to the e-mail update list.
If you would like to be on the e-mail/blog update list, send me an e-mail request. The e-mail list is confidential and all updates are sent "blind" so no one knows you are on the list. Send to george.wimmer@genesiswireless.us simply click on the link.
If you would like to be on the e-mail/blog update list, send me an e-mail request. The e-mail list is confidential and all updates are sent "blind" so no one knows you are on the list. Send to george.wimmer@genesiswireless.us simply click on the link.
Special Election
There will need to be a special election to fill the remaining two years of my Council Seat. When I have all the details I will post them.
Hard Fought Race
I would like to thank Mayor Apitz for a hard fought race. Mayor Apitz has served Isanti for over two decades and deserves to be thanked for his dedication.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Signs
I will be out to pick up my signs tomorrow. Thank you to all those that hosted an election sign.
Election Results
The results are in from Isanti City Hall as reported by the City Clerk.
Mayor's Race
George Wimmer ---864
David Apitz --------353
Council Race
Alan Duff----------478
Sue Larson--------347
Jeff Kolb----------334
Jim Kennedy------311
Steve Rask-------253
Dan Collison------253
Sean Stevens-----162
Mayor's Race
George Wimmer ---864
David Apitz --------353
Council Race
Alan Duff----------478
Sue Larson--------347
Jeff Kolb----------334
Jim Kennedy------311
Steve Rask-------253
Dan Collison------253
Sean Stevens-----162
On to Victory
Reform is in the air, we only need to seize it and bring home Victory. It is an exciting time to be involved and for us all to help shape our future City. Everyone should be aware of the stakes of this election by now. We either win or the entrenched powers will be all the stronger for having beaten back reform. On to Victory!!!
I will have election results here as soon as they come in.
I will have election results here as soon as they come in.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Get out and Vote Tuesday
We have less than 36 hours till the polls open on Tuesday. Less than 36 hours to bring true reform and change to Isanti. Everyone knows what is at stake. We must continue to work to the very end. Talk to your friends and neighbors and get out the vote on Tuesday.
We have laid out a clear agenda for progressive reform vs the Mayor's business as usual approach. There will be clear choices to make for Isanti Mayor and City Council. It is in the voters' hands to determine our future.
Everyone should be on the lookout for any last minute shenanigans. Onto Victory Tuesday.
We have laid out a clear agenda for progressive reform vs the Mayor's business as usual approach. There will be clear choices to make for Isanti Mayor and City Council. It is in the voters' hands to determine our future.
Everyone should be on the lookout for any last minute shenanigans. Onto Victory Tuesday.
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Churchill Quotes
As some may know Sir Winston Churchill is a personal hero of mine. If you get the chance read the "Last Lion" two volume biography of Churchill by William Manchester. I thought I would list a few of his most memorable quotes to give us all a break from election postings for a day.
Courage is rightly esteemed the first of human qualities... because it is the quality which guarantees all others.
Winston Churchill
Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen. Winston Churchill
Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfils the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things.
Winston Churchill
Danger - if you meet it promptly and without flinching - you will reduce the danger by half. Never run away from anything. Never!
Winston Churchill
I am prepared to meet my Maker. Whether my Maker is prepared for the great ordeal of meeting me is another matter.
Winston Churchill
Never give in--never, never, never, never, in nothing great or small, large or petty, never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.
Sir Winston Churchill, Speech, 1941, Harrow School
Many forms of Government have been tried, and will be tried in this world of sin and woe. No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise. Indeed, it has been said that democracy is the worst form of government except all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.
Sir Winston Churchill, Hansard, November 11, 1947
I would say to the House, as I said to those who have joined this Government: 'I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat."
Sir Winston Churchill, Hansard, May 13, 1940
All great things are simple, and many can be expressed in single words: freedom, justice, honor, duty, mercy, hope.
Sir Winston Churchill
An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping it will eat him last.
Sir Winston Churchill
Every day you may make progress. Every step may be fruitful. Yet there will stretch out before you an ever-lengthening, ever-ascending, ever-improving path. You know you will never get to the end of the journey. But this, so far from discouraging, only adds to the joy and glory of the climb.
Sir Winston Churchill
He has all the virtues I dislike and none of the vices I admire.
Sir Winston Churchill
History will be kind to me for I intend to write it.
Sir Winston Churchill
I have always felt that a politician is to be judged by the animosities he excites among his opponents.
Sir Winston Churchill
I like pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals.
Sir Winston Churchill
It's not enough that we do our best; sometimes we have to do what's required.
Sir Winston Churchill
Personally I'm always ready to learn, although I do not always like being taught.
Sir Winston Churchill
Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm.
Sir Winston Churchill
The price of greatness is responsibility.
Sir Winston Churchill
There are a terrible lot of lies going around the world, and the worst of it is half of them are true.
Sir Winston Churchill
We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.
Sir Winston Churchill
Lady Astor: "Winston, if I were your wife I'd put poison in your coffee."
Winston: "Nancy, if I were your husband I'd drink it."
Courage is rightly esteemed the first of human qualities... because it is the quality which guarantees all others.
Winston Churchill
Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen. Winston Churchill
Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfils the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things.
Winston Churchill
Danger - if you meet it promptly and without flinching - you will reduce the danger by half. Never run away from anything. Never!
Winston Churchill
I am prepared to meet my Maker. Whether my Maker is prepared for the great ordeal of meeting me is another matter.
Winston Churchill
Never give in--never, never, never, never, in nothing great or small, large or petty, never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.
Sir Winston Churchill, Speech, 1941, Harrow School
Many forms of Government have been tried, and will be tried in this world of sin and woe. No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise. Indeed, it has been said that democracy is the worst form of government except all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.
Sir Winston Churchill, Hansard, November 11, 1947
I would say to the House, as I said to those who have joined this Government: 'I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat."
Sir Winston Churchill, Hansard, May 13, 1940
All great things are simple, and many can be expressed in single words: freedom, justice, honor, duty, mercy, hope.
Sir Winston Churchill
An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping it will eat him last.
Sir Winston Churchill
Every day you may make progress. Every step may be fruitful. Yet there will stretch out before you an ever-lengthening, ever-ascending, ever-improving path. You know you will never get to the end of the journey. But this, so far from discouraging, only adds to the joy and glory of the climb.
Sir Winston Churchill
He has all the virtues I dislike and none of the vices I admire.
Sir Winston Churchill
History will be kind to me for I intend to write it.
Sir Winston Churchill
I have always felt that a politician is to be judged by the animosities he excites among his opponents.
Sir Winston Churchill
I like pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals.
Sir Winston Churchill
It's not enough that we do our best; sometimes we have to do what's required.
Sir Winston Churchill
Personally I'm always ready to learn, although I do not always like being taught.
Sir Winston Churchill
Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm.
Sir Winston Churchill
The price of greatness is responsibility.
Sir Winston Churchill
There are a terrible lot of lies going around the world, and the worst of it is half of them are true.
Sir Winston Churchill
We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.
Sir Winston Churchill
Lady Astor: "Winston, if I were your wife I'd put poison in your coffee."
Winston: "Nancy, if I were your husband I'd drink it."
Full Page Re-elect Ad
I was a bit surprised by the full page joint ad in the Star from Mayor Apitz and Council Member Larson. They bizarrely draw Cambridge into our election. They also seem to make the argument that everything is great and no change is needed. This however is then contradicted by their statement that if anything bad has happened it is not enough to make a change.
The only issue these two seem to think there is in Isanti is me. They state that everyone needs to follow a "common thread". Of course it must be their common thread. They make a statement about "negative" ads. I wish they would have been more positive last year when they tried to use the power of the Council to silence me. See http://georgewimmer.blogspot.com/2006/10/council-history.html for more details.
The three points this high priced full page ad makes is that Mayor Apitz and Council Member Larson are tragically out of touch, have a large campaign war chest and they make my point that they are tied at the hip. The good-ole-boy/girl network is alive and well and can only be stopped at the ballot box.
High taxes and fees, brown/radium filled city water, transportation, rising crime, anemic commercial/industrial growth and no financial planning are issues they seem not to acknowledge.
They write that this election is not about reform or change. They want to keep the "train on the track". Their track is taking Isanti off a cliff. I could not have made my points about these two any better than they did in this expensive full page ad. Thank you.
This November 7th you will have a clear choice between progressive reform or business as usual. Now is the time to make a choice for the future of Isanti. I ask for your support to reform Isanti. Together we must preserve Isanti's Traditions while planning for the future.
The only issue these two seem to think there is in Isanti is me. They state that everyone needs to follow a "common thread". Of course it must be their common thread. They make a statement about "negative" ads. I wish they would have been more positive last year when they tried to use the power of the Council to silence me. See http://georgewimmer.blogspot.com/2006/10/council-history.html for more details.
The three points this high priced full page ad makes is that Mayor Apitz and Council Member Larson are tragically out of touch, have a large campaign war chest and they make my point that they are tied at the hip. The good-ole-boy/girl network is alive and well and can only be stopped at the ballot box.
High taxes and fees, brown/radium filled city water, transportation, rising crime, anemic commercial/industrial growth and no financial planning are issues they seem not to acknowledge.
They write that this election is not about reform or change. They want to keep the "train on the track". Their track is taking Isanti off a cliff. I could not have made my points about these two any better than they did in this expensive full page ad. Thank you.
This November 7th you will have a clear choice between progressive reform or business as usual. Now is the time to make a choice for the future of Isanti. I ask for your support to reform Isanti. Together we must preserve Isanti's Traditions while planning for the future.
25,000 and Counting
We have official gone over 25,000 page visitors. The last few months have generated a lot of visitors because of the campaign. The numbers per month have finally surpassed last years high month.
Last years high month was generated after the Mayor and Council Members Johnson and Larson obeyed Iverson's request to try to silence my Blog. That City "investigation" showed the extent of the relationship between the City's largest developer and the majority of three on the Council.
I believe the Blog has been an incredible communication tool. The e-mails and phones calls generated from Blog readers has helped me tremendously.
Last years high month was generated after the Mayor and Council Members Johnson and Larson obeyed Iverson's request to try to silence my Blog. That City "investigation" showed the extent of the relationship between the City's largest developer and the majority of three on the Council.
I believe the Blog has been an incredible communication tool. The e-mails and phones calls generated from Blog readers has helped me tremendously.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Jaysen Guthmueller Guest Writer Vet Benefit
I was absolutely overwhelmed by the support at the Vietnam Veteran's Benefit. My understanding is that it was the largest event to date at Spectacular Events, who by the way did their usual fantastic job. The food was great as well as the service. Thanks Carol and Dave!
The final numbers are in with the group raising about $9500.00 after expenses. The political candidates and business community were definitely there in full force. Thank You for the support!!
I would also like to thank Isanti City Council Candidate Alan Duff for his hard work in lining up 40 people to attend and support our Veterans.
Also, a special Thanks to you George for helping to keep the event in front of your loyal Blog readers and for sponsoring a table.
Thanks to Isanti City Council Candidate Jeff Kolb who graciously donated his time to help set up on the day of the event.
Thanks to County Commissioner Candidate Glen Holmstrom who sponsored a table.
The only down side to the event was that someone walked off with a 15" LCD Konka TV without paying for it. I personally hope that when whomever stole it, watches that TV, that they think about the needy veteran that will not be able to be helped because they decided that they needed the TV more than the veterans group. I hope your mother is very proud of you. You make me ill! If anyone happens to come across an extra TV that meets the description, you can call Ray Anton at 763-689-9684.
There will be no questions asked and the identity will remain confidential.On a much happier note, the most gratifying comment that I received was from one of our Chapter members who said, "You know most of the time when Vietnam Vets get together it is doom and gloom or negative but this was a celebration and I had an absolute wonderful time.
Thank you very much!"My comment back to him was, "No, Thank-you very much for your service!"My intent was for this to be a celebration and judging by the success it will become an annual event.The real benefits that will come from this event is for VVA Chapter #684 to have the resources to lend a helping hand to a veteran in need! Thanks again to everyone that helped to make this a very special event!
Jaysen GuthMueller
The final numbers are in with the group raising about $9500.00 after expenses. The political candidates and business community were definitely there in full force. Thank You for the support!!
I would also like to thank Isanti City Council Candidate Alan Duff for his hard work in lining up 40 people to attend and support our Veterans.
Also, a special Thanks to you George for helping to keep the event in front of your loyal Blog readers and for sponsoring a table.
Thanks to Isanti City Council Candidate Jeff Kolb who graciously donated his time to help set up on the day of the event.
Thanks to County Commissioner Candidate Glen Holmstrom who sponsored a table.
The only down side to the event was that someone walked off with a 15" LCD Konka TV without paying for it. I personally hope that when whomever stole it, watches that TV, that they think about the needy veteran that will not be able to be helped because they decided that they needed the TV more than the veterans group. I hope your mother is very proud of you. You make me ill! If anyone happens to come across an extra TV that meets the description, you can call Ray Anton at 763-689-9684.
There will be no questions asked and the identity will remain confidential.On a much happier note, the most gratifying comment that I received was from one of our Chapter members who said, "You know most of the time when Vietnam Vets get together it is doom and gloom or negative but this was a celebration and I had an absolute wonderful time.
Thank you very much!"My comment back to him was, "No, Thank-you very much for your service!"My intent was for this to be a celebration and judging by the success it will become an annual event.The real benefits that will come from this event is for VVA Chapter #684 to have the resources to lend a helping hand to a veteran in need! Thanks again to everyone that helped to make this a very special event!
Jaysen GuthMueller
Vote for Progressive Reform
We have four more days until the election. We will have the historic opportunity to reform our City. Four more days until the Citizens of Isanti take back control from an elite click. We must lower our high taxes and City fees, clean up our water, provide a safe city and direct our efforts and resources to dramatically improve our commercial/industrial base. We must pass a comprehensive Conflict of Interest Policy to rid Isanti of the destructive influence of money and power on City Council decisions.This is a grass roots campaign, I do not have big money backing my run for Mayor. Our ideas of reform however will win out over any amount of money thrown at us. We are fighting for:
Traffic Mitigation
Improved Policing
Safe Routes for Children
Mosquito Control
Economic Reform
Tax and Fee Reductions
Growing Isanti's Business Districts
Responsible City GovernmentThis November 7th you will have a clear choice between progressive reform or business as usual. Now is the time to make a choice for the future of Isanti. I ask for your support in my efforts to reform Isanti. Together we must preserve Isanti's Traditions while planning for the future.
Citizen Safety
Traffic Mitigation
Improved Policing
Safe Routes for Children
Mosquito Control
Economic Reform
Tax and Fee Reductions
Growing Isanti's Business Districts
Responsible City Government
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Pedestrian Bridge
I had two great meetings the last few days regarding the proposed pedestrian bridge across highway 65. We have been discussing the placement of the bridge along Broadway or just north of the old burger top property. Met today with the developers of the piece of property to the east of 65. The meeting went very well and I believe will lead us to a common vision of the much needed amenity. The new school and residential development east of 65 will more than double Isanti's population.
The bridge would not be built for a number of years but we must complete the planning process now so we may start to apply for federal funding. Federal and state funding should pay 80% plus of the project cost.
Having this planned now will allow for the commercial developments to incorporate the bridge into there plans.
We must provide a safe option to cross 65 since the City made the decision to develop east of 65.
I will keep you updated as new information comes available.
The bridge would not be built for a number of years but we must complete the planning process now so we may start to apply for federal funding. Federal and state funding should pay 80% plus of the project cost.
Having this planned now will allow for the commercial developments to incorporate the bridge into there plans.
We must provide a safe option to cross 65 since the City made the decision to develop east of 65.
I will keep you updated as new information comes available.
Drug Bust
There were several big drug bust the last week in our Isanti community. The police departments involved have been working hard to make us safer. I have been working hard the last two years to improve our City Police force. This includes improved technology and additional Police Officer. The Council on a vote of 3-2, Mayor Apitz and Council Members Johnson and Larson voted against adding a new police officer that would be on the job today.
They instead voted for an administrative Assistant. The latest string of big arrest point to the significant rise in area crime. Check out www.georgewimmer.com for the police report of 2005. I bring this up to illustrate that priorities matters and votes matter. We will be making a decision November 7th for who will lead Isanti.
Here is the link to the various area drug bust:
http://www.isanticountynews.com/2006/November/1crimes.html
http://www.isanticountynews.com/2006/November/1marijuana.html
http://www.isanticountynews.com/2006/November/1meth.html
They instead voted for an administrative Assistant. The latest string of big arrest point to the significant rise in area crime. Check out www.georgewimmer.com for the police report of 2005. I bring this up to illustrate that priorities matters and votes matter. We will be making a decision November 7th for who will lead Isanti.
Here is the link to the various area drug bust:
http://www.isanticountynews.com/2006/November/1crimes.html
http://www.isanticountynews.com/2006/November/1marijuana.html
http://www.isanticountynews.com/2006/November/1meth.html
Mayor's Race
I have a few Mayoral positions I will bring to Isanti if elected.
I will layout the frame work with City staff for a 1, 3, 5, 10 and 20 year budget. This coupled with a Capital Improvement plan will set Isanti on long term financial footing for years to come. Currently the city does no long term planning leading to poor decisions.
Decisively change Isanti's current lack luster approach to bringing in new businesses. We need to have a trained person focusing like a "laser" on economic development. This is will include an aggressive marketing plan aimed at strong industrial growth and needed commercial businesses. Isanti currently spends less than .001% of the City budget to bring in new businesses.
I will have set office hours so any Citizen or Taxpayer may come talk with me. This will open up the communication process so everyone is treated equally no preferential treatment is given to the wealthy and powerful.
I will begin a Mayor's award for the best yards in Isanti. I have been pushing for a Community Service Officer to enforce Isanti's nuisance ordinances. I also believe we need to positively reinforce those home owners that are doing a great job with their yards. Each month of May, June, July, August, September and October yards would be nominated and the top three winners named and published and granted donated monetary awards.
I believe strongly we must have positive reinforcement as well as a proactive Community Service Officer to ensure great looking yards that benefit everyone.
If elected Mayor I would ask that an advisory body be created each time the City builds a new building or does significant remolding. A prime example of where this would have been helpful is the building of City Hall. This project was over $500,000 over budget and still has significant problems that need to be solved.An advisory body would be made up of volunteers that work in the construction trades. These individuals would not be bidding or working on the City project and could give advice and help manage the project. Experts in the field could point out potential pitfalls and help the Council pick the best options available. This would be a common sense step that can ensure the success of future projects including the upcoming liquor store remolding/expansion.
I want to talk about environmental concerns. Isanti needs to look at opening up and changing landscaping and drainage standards. This could include varying landscaping or the use of rain gardens to help control water run off.
We must seriously explore all solutions to our environmental concerns. Wildlife corridors and environmentally sensitive development will ensure a city that will be prosperous, safe and beautiful for generations to come.
I will layout the frame work with City staff for a 1, 3, 5, 10 and 20 year budget. This coupled with a Capital Improvement plan will set Isanti on long term financial footing for years to come. Currently the city does no long term planning leading to poor decisions.
Decisively change Isanti's current lack luster approach to bringing in new businesses. We need to have a trained person focusing like a "laser" on economic development. This is will include an aggressive marketing plan aimed at strong industrial growth and needed commercial businesses. Isanti currently spends less than .001% of the City budget to bring in new businesses.
I will have set office hours so any Citizen or Taxpayer may come talk with me. This will open up the communication process so everyone is treated equally no preferential treatment is given to the wealthy and powerful.
I will begin a Mayor's award for the best yards in Isanti. I have been pushing for a Community Service Officer to enforce Isanti's nuisance ordinances. I also believe we need to positively reinforce those home owners that are doing a great job with their yards. Each month of May, June, July, August, September and October yards would be nominated and the top three winners named and published and granted donated monetary awards.
I believe strongly we must have positive reinforcement as well as a proactive Community Service Officer to ensure great looking yards that benefit everyone.
If elected Mayor I would ask that an advisory body be created each time the City builds a new building or does significant remolding. A prime example of where this would have been helpful is the building of City Hall. This project was over $500,000 over budget and still has significant problems that need to be solved.An advisory body would be made up of volunteers that work in the construction trades. These individuals would not be bidding or working on the City project and could give advice and help manage the project. Experts in the field could point out potential pitfalls and help the Council pick the best options available. This would be a common sense step that can ensure the success of future projects including the upcoming liquor store remolding/expansion.
I want to talk about environmental concerns. Isanti needs to look at opening up and changing landscaping and drainage standards. This could include varying landscaping or the use of rain gardens to help control water run off.
We must seriously explore all solutions to our environmental concerns. Wildlife corridors and environmentally sensitive development will ensure a city that will be prosperous, safe and beautiful for generations to come.
Reform Isanti
Reform Isanti
Whether you plan to live in Isanti the rest of your life or just a few years, we must plan now to control how growth will affect our property values, taxes, and City fees. Isanti needs a leader with a plan and ability to implement it.
Isanti faces specific challenges:
Increasing Crime
High Taxes and Fees
Lack of City planning
Apathetic City Government
I have laid out a progressive agenda for Isanti. My agenda centers around three guiding principles:
Citizen Safety
Economic Reform
Responsible City Government
We have an opportunity and responsibility to reform Isanti. In 2001 when I moved to Isanti the City’s per capita debt was $400. Today it is $2500 per person. The city’s population increased by 100% yet our debt has increased by over 500% in the same time period. This will limit Isanti’s ability to do important public projects.
Our current Mayor voted against my 12% property tax decrease in order to continue high levels of unnecessary spending. Isanti's spending has exploded by over 40% in the last two years alone.
It has been stated by Council Member Johnson that the apparent reason he and the Mayor along with Council Member Larson voted to increase taxes two out of the last three years is that Local Government Aid (LGA) is down. Either he does not understand or is porposely not telling the truth. Isanti's LGA has increased by almost 100% in the last few years. Here is the breakdown:
2004 $311,664
2005 $434,633
2006 $546,860
2007 $603,536
2005 $434,633
2006 $546,860
2007 $603,536
There is roughly a 51% per person increase in the same time period using the state demographer's population numbers.
The Mayor failed to support my efforts in the last year to bring financial planning, capital improvement planning and maintanaince cost tracking to City Hall.
Crime has skyrocketed, go to http://www.georgewimmer.com/Police%20Report.html ,to learn more.
Isanti is going in the wrong direction. We must complete the Development Impact List, Residential Handbook, City Ordinance Reform, Long Range Financial Planning and establish protection for unique Isanti neighborhoods.
This November 7th you will have a clear choice between progressive reform or business as usual.
Now is the time to make a choice for the future of Isanti. I ask for your support in my efforts to reform Isanti.
Together we must preserve Isanti’s Traditions while planning for the future.
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