82398 - Fri Dec 11 12:38:20 2009 - [Change we can believe in?] By: Chris |
44% of the people want Bush back over Obama.
This reminds me how good Doty looked after Bergson took over.
http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/1209/Bush_closes_the_gap.html |
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82397 - Fri Dec 11 07:57:28 2009 - [Let the most expensive FD in state do it] By: Pro-DFD |
We are not trying to take any jobs away from any other union member. Our intent is to be the ambulance provider for the city of Duluth and make money for the city. We believe we can.
Other cities have done the same thing and it has worked. Let Jay show the committee the real numbers to show how it can be done. I realize some of you hate us no matter what we try to do but this will work. Gold Cross has some major problems in serving the city and we can do it better, faster and smarter. Let the Duluth Fire Department help with the budget problems. |
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82396 - Thu Dec 10 22:30:09 2009 - [Much more than a perfect 10] By: Dick |
DCBers I heard Tom had a major health snafu when the beast ran into him recently. Too much heavy boozing and the beast has put on a lot of weight as of late, and I mean a lot of weight.
Now keep in mind most men rate women on a scale of 1 to 10, but not Tom.
Tom told the beast that she was much more than a perfect 10. He told her she’s a 25.
Then things didn’t go well for Tom when he explained to her that she’s the square root of 25, 5’ high X 5’ wide. The beast was unleashed and Tom hasn’t been heard from since.
Tom is recovering in Florida from crushed ribs and a broken jaw and nose. Whatever you do, don’t ask Tom how his jaw and nose were broken.
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82395 - Thu Dec 10 22:12:12 2009 - [Whine whine harassment, pure and simple] By: Inspector Clouseau |
http://www.holtuncensored.com/members/column102.html
Dear Holt Uncensored:
I am outraged at the line of questioning pursued by the Amazon.com attorneys in their lawsuit against Amazon Bookstore. This is harassment, pure and simple. I am in the process of composing a letter to Amazon.com informing them that, not only are they total homophobes who have no business prying into the personal lives of Amazon Bookstore owners and staff, but they are also simply incorrect in their theory that Amazon Bookstore caters only to lesbians.
I myself am a heterosexual married woman with a small child. Whenever I travel down to Minneapolis, I always make a point of stopping by Amazon Bookstore to see what's new. My husband, Joel Sipress, has accompanied me to Amazon on numerous occasions, and we have both purchased books there . . . Joel has never felt unwelcome at Amazon: Staff members have been cordial to him and he has found many, many books there that appeal to him. He has also attended several readings at Amazon and has been just one of a number of men at these events.
Moreover, Amazon Bookstore has a fabulous collection of children's books--not only have I purchased books for my daughter at Amazon, I have recommended Amazon Bookstore to friends (hetero and lesbian) with children who want good, non-stereotypical children's books.
Amazon Bookstore is a community treasure. To say that it caters to a small fraction of the Minnesota populace is ludicrous. I urge all of your online newsletter subscribers to write to Amazon.com and order them to tell their attorneys to quit harassing the owners of Amazon Bookstore about their personal lives or sexual preferences. It's nobody's business and has no place in this or any lawsuit.
Claire Kirch
Duluth MN
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82394 - Thu Dec 10 21:59:58 2009 - [Tom A turning over a new rock?] By: Progressive Action |
| Barb J, are you referring to "Taliban" Tom A? Word at the cafe is that he's currently training to become a community activist at Wellstone Action !. |
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82393 - Thu Dec 10 21:00:55 2009 - [Give back to your community] By: Progressive Action |
We had a round table discussion at the cafe today and we're very disappointed in Tiger Woods for the lack of diversity among his mistresses.
The lack of African-American women among Woods’ harem will have a negative affect on the black community, specifically young black girls.
Why is it that a man who calls himself black can’t bring himself to cheat on his wife with a black woman? What does it say to young black girls everywhere when you pass them over? Shame on you, Tiger Woods. What would your daddy say?
Today’s black athletes need to stop neglecting black women when it comes to extramarital affairs, and should follow the examples of positive black role models such as Jesse Jackson who cheated on his wife with black women. African- American women would help the black community financially by giving black girls the chance to sell their stories to tabloids and gossip magazines.
I’m not asking you all to stop cheating on your wives, I’m just asking you to give back to your own
community. |
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82392 - Thu Dec 10 19:48:12 2009 - [Tom A is MIA?] By: Barb J |
| What ever happened to that Tom A that called Claire the wide load? |
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82392 - Thu Dec 10 19:48:12 2009 - [Tom A is MIA?] By: Barb J |
| What ever happened to that Tom A that called Claire the wide load? |
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82391 - Thu Dec 10 19:36:36 2009 - [Another failure] By: Dennis Miller |
I wonder if C's tendancies would cause her to fail in this also...
http://www.gjk2.com/test/test.swf |
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82390 - Thu Dec 10 19:21:01 2009 - [The Yeti endorsement] By: Ben Dover |
I see UMD is going to offer a workshop for students who are considering moving off campus. It will be called,
"Renters 101, What would Mr. Rogers do?"
Is what would Donny Boy Ness do for real?
BTW, the Yeti has had its tail between its legs since the thumping of its endorsed Lesbian candidate, Muffy Olson. The Yeti sure seems to have a knack for ensuring a candidates demise just by a simple Yeti endorsement.
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82389 - Thu Dec 10 19:02:23 2009 - [Truly a mental disorder] By: Gary |
| Claire there you go again with another "can't understand normal thinking" moment. Liberalism is truly a mental disorder. |
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82388 - Thu Dec 10 18:53:43 2009 - [DFL Duluth portion continues to climb] By: Cynic |
Tara, It was the assessor from the city of Duluth office that raised my assessed value so high that it is well above what I can sell for. That is what has been the major driving force of our property taxes going through the roof. Also the county had no raise in my property taxes this year and in fact went down by four bucks. However, the city portion continues to climb. Yes I can go "complain" to the county but it would probably do as much good as it does to "complain" to the city......right? Also I spend my time concentrating on what the city is doing and that alone can keep one very busy. Try to add the county, state and federal in there and it would be an impossible task to know what is going on.....right?
I've got an idea Tara. Why don't you go complain to the county for me. You can concentrate on the county and I'll stick to the city.....OK? |
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82387 - Thu Dec 10 18:29:58 2009 - [How parastic of her] By: C please STFU |
| Hey, our very own Claire has slithered out of hiding under her rock. Where was she? She has been absent from the local blogs for a while. I know, I have been checking everyday. I suspect she was out east to see her elitist, caviar eating jetsetting associates for thanksgiving. How parastic of her to bring up Becky Hall's name that tripe filled letter. She did her best to smear and intimidate her during the election, and now she presents Hall along with Olson as victims! You can't make shit like that up! |
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82386 - Thu Dec 10 18:24:38 2009 - [Complain to the County ] By: Tara |
Cynic,
The City of Duluth receives 22% of your property taxes.
The School District receives 26% of your property taxes.
The St. Louis County receives 47% of your property taxes.
Looks like you should go complain to the County who has a 326 million dollar budget of tax dollers. |
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82385 - Thu Dec 10 18:08:12 2009 - [The kiss of death, a sure loser] By: Dave |
| Did I miss something last election? I know that Beth Olson was vociferously backed by Claire Kirch. Did Claire Kirch endorse Becky Hall too? No wonder neither won a seat on the council. An endorsement by her is the kiss of death, a sure loser. |
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82384 - Thu Dec 10 17:52:51 2009 - [Descriptive] By: Pitt Street Panther |
I have 2 words that describe KKK, Psycho Cyberslut!
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=cyberslut |
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82383 - Thu Dec 10 16:00:02 2009 - [Claire and her kind not welcome] By: BOB |
Looks to me like she has the Beth Olson Blues, BOB.
http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/154332/group/Opinion/
Published December 10 2009
Reader's view: News Tribune has become a veritable boys club
While it’s debatable whether the local media’s inappropriate intrusion into certain candidates’ private lives had a decisive impact upon voters, one thing became crystal clear during the recent election: Our newspaper has a woman problem. Since former publisher Marti Buscaglia departed, followed by top female editors, including Connie Wirta, the News Tribune has become a veritable boys club.
The lack of women among top management at the newspaper has contributed, I think, to a mean-spirited shift in the way women in the public eye are treated by certain editors and reporters, as compared to these women’s male counterparts. Even the most mundane coverage of female public figures is tainted by News Tribune staffers’ sexist attitudes.
For instance, the private lives of the two women running for office in the last election were scrutinized in profiles in the News Tribune while profiles of the two male candidates focused almost exclusively on issues. Do you know what Dan Hartman’s wife does for a living? How many children Jim Stauber has? I don’t either. But thanks to the News Tribune, I know exactly what Becky Hall’s husband does and how many children she has. And I know a lot more about Beth Olson’s previous relationships than I know about Stauber’s current relationship.
I urge the News Tribune in the future to treat women candidates for office and officeholders with the same respect for their privacy that’s always been extended to male candidates and officeholders. Such outdated attitudes about women’s private lives and their lifestyles have absolutely no place in a newspaper in the 21st century.
Claire Kirch
Duluth
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82382 - Thu Dec 10 15:30:38 2009 - [The Khester Kreek Kook] By: Bad Stench |
The following shows that somebody is a sore loser. What's wrong Claire, aka Teabagee, Duluthians not buying your ultra leftist trust funding Kool Aid? Poor Beth, at least she can crawl back into her wife's arms and be accepted. Not even the tens of thousands of DFL, DFD PAC and AFSCME dollars could help this candidate. She was doomed when she got the endorsement of the Khester Kreek Kook. That's all it took. Game over. Next....
Reader's view: News Tribune has become a veritable boys club
While it’s debatable whether the local media’s inappropriate intrusion into certain candidates’ private lives had a decisive impact upon voters, one thing became crystal clear during the recent election: Our newspaper has a woman problem. Since former publisher Marti Buscaglia departed, followed by top female editors, including Connie Wirta, the News Tribune has become a veritable boys club.
The lack of women among top management at the newspaper has contributed, I think, to a mean-spirited shift in the way women in the public eye are treated by certain editors and reporters, as compared to these women’s male counterparts. Even the most mundane coverage of female public figures is tainted by News Tribune staffers’ sexist attitudes.
For instance, the private lives of the two women running for office in the last election were scrutinized in profiles in the News Tribune while profiles of the two male candidates focused almost exclusively on issues. Do you know what Dan Hartman’s wife does for a living? How many children Jim Stauber has? I don’t either. But thanks to the News Tribune, I know exactly what Becky Hall’s husband does and how many children she has. And I know a lot more about Beth Olson’s previous relationships than I know about Stauber’s current relationship.
I urge the News Tribune in the future to treat women candidates for office and officeholders with the same respect for their privacy that’s always been extended to male candidates and officeholders. Such outdated attitudes about women’s private lives and their lifestyles have absolutely no place in a newspaper in the 21st century.
Claire Kirch
Duluth
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82381 - Thu Dec 10 15:23:57 2009 - [How about a roll back?] By: Cynic |
| and now that I'm finally old enough to collect social security I get a letter in the mail saying there will be no cost of living raise because the cost of living is not going up. Would someone tell that to Ness and the city council. How about a roll back on some of the property tax increases over the last 5 years since there is no increase in cost to the city either.......right? |
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82380 - Thu Dec 10 12:14:56 2009 - [Fighting the corrupt DFD and IAFF] By: Inside Look |
Medic,
Good luck in fighting the corrupt DFD and IAFF. Jay Sparks has one thing in mind and that is making money to pay off the hundreds of thousands of dollars in judgements that he has against him. I also wonder what his tax status is... Is he behind in taxes? If so, that should automatically exclude him from an appointment to ANY public board. |
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82379 - Thu Dec 10 09:38:29 2009 - [More DFL Duluth union poo mockery] By: LIB Reader Online |
This is DFL Duluth where you can only afford to read the LIB online for free saving money for another DFL tax, fee, fine and utility increase, but you save energy and the trees also.
Q: What will DFL Duluth do when more people don't have enough money to pay for all the DFL Duluth union poo mockery?
A: Open another restaurant with 190 part-time jobs.
AFSCME and the DFD are driving this city into the poor house.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Published December 10 2009
Duluth city fees might be on the rise
The cost of doing business with the city might be going up, as the administration hopes to increase 150 of its current fees and add nine new ones.
By: Brandon Stahl, Duluth News Tribune
Hey, buddy, can you spare a dime? Or maybe five or 10 or 20 of them?
The Duluth city administration is asking the City Council to increase about 150 of the 523 fees — or about 30 percent — it charges each year. But in most cases, those increases are generally nominal — ranging from
50 cents more for such services as backflow prevention testing and registration, to $5 more for a Board of Zoning Appeals filing fee, to $10 more to hold a wedding of 300 or more at a city park.
In addition to the small automatic increases, the city also plans to put nine new fees into effect, most of them aimed at reducing the number of false security alarm calls.
The city is proposing to charge owners of security alarms $100 after the third false alarm, $200 for the fourth and increasing $100 for each subsequent false alarm.
Of the nearly 2,389 alarm calls police responded to in 2008, only 11 were legitimate calls, said Police Chief Gordon Ramsay.
“It’s the equivalent of having two full-time officers a year respond to alarm calls,” Ramsay said. “To continue to plod ahead and not make any changes is insanity.”
The owners of local alarm companies spoke in opposition to the false alarm fees during a meeting with city staff this week. To start with, said Tim Davis, operations manager of Peoples Security, all of the alarm companies will be required to give their customer data to a third-party company in Chicago, which will manage the alarm fees for the city.
“We view that information as proprietary,” David said. “We can’t give that out to third parties.”
Under the terms of the ordinance, property owners also would be charged a $20 fee to register their systems with the city and get a permit, which will have to be displayed prominently somewhere on their property, and would have to pay $20 if they don’t respond in time to a false alarm. Such requirements might discourage people from buying alarm systems, said Wayne Johnson, president of Great Lakes Alarm.
Ramsay said he was only recently made aware of the security company concerns and his department will work with business owners to find a solution.
“We’re not the first city to go down this road,” he said.
Some city councilors said they don’t see a problem with the array of fee increases included in the city budget.
“When I looked at them, they were small increases, which is reasonable,” said City Councilor Jeff Anderson.
But some in the community don’t agree — including the heads of the Duluth Chamber of Commerce, which opposes all city tax and fee increases this year.
“Business is shrinking revenue, not increasing revenue,” Chamber public policy director Andy Peterson said. “Everyone should take note and do everything in their power to not increase taxes and fees.”
The small automatic fee increases are due to a 2007 council ordinance that tied the fees to the “implicit price deflator,” a government ratio that reflects the rate of inflation, which this year is .083 percent.
That ratio is applied to nearly all fees, city Chief Administrative Officer David Montgomery said. If the increase is less than a dollar, in most cases the fee is rounded down and kept at the same amount.
Higher-end fees, such as a $400 to $2,400 charge to clean up after a parade will increase between $3 and $20.
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82378 - Thu Dec 10 08:18:51 2009 - [Ne$$ making more "Tough Choices"] By: Slippery Slope |
Ne$$ and the land of 10,000 fees. Oh! OK! 523 and counting. This from a BS story in today's Duluth News Tribune about fees, new fees and raising fees.
"The Duluth city administration is asking the City Council to increase about 150 of the 523 fees — or about 30 percent —" |
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82377 - Thu Dec 10 08:04:57 2009 - [Union and Corruption go hand in hand] By: Slippery Slope |
| Medic, Good luck you are up against a corrupt union and many corrupt politicians both here and at the capital. They will do anything they can to take over your "union" jobs and starve your families. All the best to you and yours. |
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82376 - Thu Dec 10 05:50:26 2009 - [DFD has only self interest in mind] By: Medic |
Thanks to our union (Retail Clerks) it appears our jobs won't be taken away from us by the selfish fire boys and girls. People have realized the fire deparment and their union is trying to justify their existance and will run over anyone in their way.
Just for those interested, only the retired fire fighter, Jay Sparks is pushing hard on this issue. Would you expect anything else. The fire union continues to expose themselves for what they really are,selfish,self-centered and egotistical.
The Retail Clerks Union has flexed their muscle on behalf of the Gold Cross Employees and we appreciate that. The fire department doesn't understand union brotherhood, for them it's all about me..me..me..me..me..me |
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82375 - Wed Dec 9 19:21:01 2009 - [Climate scam] By: mp |
Climate change reparations are neeeded.
www.un-ngls.org/spip.php?page=climatejustice
www.un-ngls.org/IMG/pdf_chapter3.pdf
The UN proposes $24 trillion in climate reparations from US.It urges the broad recognition of climate debt, along with reparations to redress it, estimating a figure of US $24 trillion from the climate debt incurred between 1800 and 2008.
And you must get rid of your personal car or be forced to pay for it.
www.unep.org/pdf/GGND_Final_Report.pdf
An incentive system of subsidies, taxes, and regulations that encourage environmentally responsible behaviour and helps to internalize externalities should be promoted. For instance, the use of personal automobiles has wellknown negative externalities. These externalities can be charged through a variety of ways – taxes on fuel, taxes on road use, taxes on automobiles. Singapore provides a very good example of how to control vehicular use.
First, it auctions a limited number of car permits every year (valid for 10 years). This allows authorities to directly restrict the number of cars. Second, it uses a sophisticated system of Electronic Road Pricing to charge for road use. (Of course, these measures have to be complimented with good public transport).
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82374 - Wed Dec 9 11:54:14 2009 - [DFL economic & morale decay] By: Business in the Briefs |
Like Duluth it's backing up and stinks in America! The Obama DFL is back to "dumping". The blame on Bush and more than that on America! 8 years of neglect? How about let's look at the blame game? Could it be a wrongful neglect that was the result of both a terrorism strangled and politically strapped GOP? How about a scheming DFL, that, especially since Clinton, has pushed America too a economic and morale decay resembling that of DFL Duluths'? Has 30 plus years of every opportunity DFL economic and morale corrupt robbery in Duluth, under the guise of equalization, brought success to Duluth? My God, drive to St. Cloud!!!!!! The Duluth DFL has allowed our Downtown to become a "Clean and Green Ghetto Scene"!!! Have the wealthy paid their fair share in Duluth?!!!!!!!!!They certainly have, DEDA and TIF, helped themselves to Duluth's resources!!!!!!! Where's the payback?!!!!!!! A person of even limited inteligence can recognize and only shudder at the similarities between Obama's "Cure of Change" and what Donny Duluths' DFL, "Cure of Corruption", has wrought, or should we say, rot, too Duluth. The same "greater people" businesses, Mall, Canal Park Tourism, Low Income Rental Development, grow. This as Duluth's smaller independent retail, service, and rental industry falls pry to ever increasing regulatory, tax, and fee burden that outwardly does not apply to all in Duluth! Designed failure allows the dime on the dollar takeover for those who lead through "give away tax dollars" and a corrupt "Greater Council and Chamber". Working for the Government or the "Man" is all that remains in Duluth, a City with non and working class poor numbers to challenge that of third world countries. The poor are a AFSCME union and "Wealthy" run industry here!!!!
It might very well be time for the DFL to stop playing the blame game. The DFL needs to wake up to what we all are undoubtably doing too ourselves if people like Pelosi, Obama, and Don Ness don't start admitting too, and start stopping, the outright destruction of personal freedoms. The freedoms that formed the the greatness our country once had and we once proved to the world!!! We now appease our enemies. We force and enable poverty. These values are shamefully the "way" in DFL Duluth. So shameful, the DFL here, no longer even closes the door to conceal what they are doing "in there" too Duluth or America!!!! Proof you ask? A White House, Capitol Hill, and City Hall full of tax evaders, thieving attorney's, and special inerest, just like Duluth!!!!! Afterall, Duluth is a full growth example of DFL thinking where the only equalization of class has the, true tax revenue generating, hard working independent middle class, being forced to join the poor!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
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82373 - Wed Dec 9 10:59:46 2009 - [Whats the difference?] By: phil m |
Whats the difference between an suv and a golf ball?
Tiger woods can drive a golf ball 400 yards
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82372 - Wed Dec 9 08:05:17 2009 - [Gardner needs to toughen up or resign] By: WHAAA |
| Ms. Gardner needs to stop playing the role of " POOR ME " I'm just the lonely women in the mans world.Grow up Sharla, you wanted the job, now do it.All we ask of any of our elected leaders is to shut-up and do the job you were elected to do.If that is impossible for you then please do us all a favor and Resign,PLEASE. |
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82371 - Tue Dec 8 22:45:26 2009 - [What gives with the little man?] By: Big Iron |
| In the last 4 days, little Brandon Stahl has deleted comments on his story about Rod Raymond, provided a comment section on his blog about Sharla Gardner, then wouldn't allow any. Is this a case of Napoleon syndrome, or just not knowing what the hell is going on??? |
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82370 - Tue Dec 8 20:23:34 2009 - [The Dollar Bubble ] By: Numbers Cruncher |
The Dollar Bubble is now posted for viewing on the Numbers Cruncher where the numbers don’t lie like politicians do.
http://numberscruncher.blogspot.com/
NC |
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82369 - Tue Dec 8 18:53:45 2009 - [BS folds to DFL Duluth mafia pressure ] By: Cynic |
| Dave, BS will not allow anyone to give comments on that particular letter from Gardner. You can only imagine the censorship that must go on on that blog. |
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82368 - Tue Dec 8 18:46:44 2009 - [Thanks DFL Duluth! ] By: Dennis Miller |
Thanks DFL we couldn't do it without you!
http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/pages/biz
1,800 applications, 190 jobs at Duluth restaurant
More than nine people have applied for every available job at a new Duluth restaurant.
Since Texas Roadhouse began hiring about a month ago, about 1,800 applications have been submitted as of Tuesday morning for its estimated 190 open positions.
“We’ve definitely seen an upswing in the number of applicants we’ve had across the country, but it’s a great thing for us to be able to come to town and bring 200 jobs to Duluth,” said Mark Prosen, a managing partner and part-owner of the restaurant at 902 Mall Drive.
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82367 - Tue Dec 8 14:59:36 2009 - [DFL Compulsive liar seeks feedback] By: Dave |
IN SOLIDARITY AFSCME MEMBER SHARLA GARDNER WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU ON STAHL'S BLOG.
http://www.areavoices.com/buzz/
Care to comment?
An email sent yesterday by city councilor Sharla Gardner to me, DNT editor Rob Karwath, editorial page editor Chuck Frederick, the mayor, and council president Greg Gilbert
Subject: Please explain your blog policy
Hi Brandon, Rob and Chuck
Well, I girded my loins and read the blog comments about Sister Cities. While I was expecting negativity and disagreement from people, I continue to be surprised you allow blog posts that contain subjective, inaccurate, nasty personal attacks, ie. "Gardner is a compulsive liar", etc. Clearly, in the blogosphere, "lying" is in the eye of the beholder; if people disagree with you, think differently about an issue, etc. they are "lying". I was frank and honest about the Sister Cities issue and will continue to be. Not knowing how much a ticket cost because I was extremely busy doing my job as an elected official is not lying, it was was simply not knowing.
Perhaps some of the people who made these remarks don't understand what it's like to have two full time jobs with a lot of responsibility, as I do. Perhaps they have never been in a new leadership position in which there were myriad unfamiliar expectations. Unless and until they have walked a mile in my moccasins, they should think twice before pointing fingers. People can debate about the merits of the Sister Cities Program without resorting to name calling and finger pointing. AND, if they're not capable of doing that, their posts should not be allowed. As a person of integrity and honesty, and a dedicated public servant, I find these remarks needlessly nasty and offensive and they do nothing toward elevating the dialogue or resolving the city's financial problems.
It was my understanding, your policy was that people who did this sort of thing would not get their remarks posted. If it's not your policy, I encourage you to reconsider it. This city has enough problems without allowing name callers to have a voice in the dialogue. You can feel free to post this on your blog if you choose.
Regards,
Sharla Gardner
3rd District City Councilor
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82365 - Tue Dec 8 10:40:05 2009 - [The life story of Mayor Ne$$] By: duluth m |
| news just in,hollywood has decided to make a major motion picture, about the rise of our beloved mayor donny ness,its a movie that will be the feel good movie of the year,it will be about his humble beginnings as a shy awkward student who was not popular,and getting votes to be class president,then rolling up his sleeves and working as a gas station attendant,then city council,then our greatest mayor.ZACH BRAFF (THE STAR OF THE HIT SHOW SCRUBS)will be playing the role as our beloved mayor Donny Ness. |
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82364 - Tue Dec 8 07:29:06 2009 - [Give Obama credit for the right decision] By: Luanne |
President Obama's decision to send more troops to Afghanistan is the right thing to do.
This "surge" is exactly what Bush did in Iraq and it worked.
Lets give him credit for making the right decision. |
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82363 - Tue Dec 8 07:17:19 2009 - [Doing a good job] By: Jimmy D. |
| Claire your doing a good job. Haven't smelled your stench in awhile. You must be using a different product. Keep up the good work |
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82362 - Mon Dec 7 20:42:33 2009 - [Living a stone age existence] By: mp |
It's time for hot air, the Climate Change Conference in Copehagen, Denmark.
www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1233771/Climate-change-summit-produce-CO2-African-country.html
The summit costs a lot of money and carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which will kill us all. Actually that is what you breathe out in every breath, and what plants use to make oxygen. FYI - The Obama EPA says CO2 is a poison and will neeed to be regulated.
The biggest danger is the climate summit plan to reduce worldwide CO2 emissions by 80% by 2050. That means no more gas, oil, automobiles, electricity, etc. You will be living a stone age existence. |
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82361 - Mon Dec 7 13:15:33 2009 - [Tiger Woods and baby seals] By: jthyme |
| What does Tiger Woods have in common with baby seals? They both get clubbed by Norwegians. |
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82360 - Sun Dec 6 19:38:31 2009 - [From Tiger to Cheetah] By: Tiger Woods in the news |
They no longer call Tiger, Tiger. They call him Cheetah.
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82359 - Sun Dec 6 12:54:19 2009 - [Put Congress on same plan as rest of us] By: DFL Crime Watch |
GOOD ENOUGH FOR OBERSTAR GOOD ENOUGH FOR YOU.
The Senate health committee voted 12-11 in favor of a two-page amendment, courtesy of Republican Tom Coburn which would require all Members of Congress and their staff members to enroll in any new government-run health plan.
Congressman John Fleming has proposed an amendment that would require Congressmen and Senators to take the same health care plan that they would force on us. (Under proposed legislation they are exempt.)
Congressman Fleming is encouraging people to go to his Website and sign his petition. The process is very simple. I have done just that at: http://fleming.house.gov/index.html
Senator Coburn and Congressman Fleming are both physicians. Regardless of your political beliefs, it sure seems reasonable that Congress should have exactly the same medical coverage that they impose on the rest of us.
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82358 - Sun Dec 6 12:09:59 2009 - [Twice as far and how much less?] By: Dave D |
http://www.floridahighspeedrail.org/Home_Page.html
Florida wants federal money for rail also. 2.5 billion. According to that site, Tampa to Orlando would cost 3.5 billion. And those who don't know, Tampa to Orlando is approximately 85 miles. And the DNT and MN officials said the rail from Duluth to Minneapolis would be a billion dollars.
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82357 - Sun Dec 6 11:48:53 2009 - [UMD set up for a major lawsuit] By: Common Sns |
I think UMD has ALREADY set themselves up for a lawsuit!
When they ignored the recommendation to "Remove Mr. Raymond from UMD immediately", they opened the door for any future allegations resulting in a lawsuit. A NEW allegation seems to have just taken place!
The finger was pointed at the Chancellor herself as the one who saved his butt? If this is true, she just set UMD up for a major lawsuit!! |
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82356 - Sat Dec 5 20:11:13 2009 - [Time to send Rod packin'] By: Tara |
| Rod Raymond is an egotistical creep. UMD needs to do the right thing now. Fire him. |
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82355 - Sat Dec 5 20:05:46 2009 - [Napoleon syndrome at Bentleyville] By: Billy Club |
Big Iron, Stahlalinski rules with an iron fist behind his computer screen and suffers from the same disease as Ralph Doty, Little Man Syndrome.
Little Man Syndrome is defined as a man, small in stature, who attempts to overcome the way he believes other people perceive him (as a diminuative character) by 1) attaching himself to authority figures, 2) trying to manipulate himself into positions of control, 3) migrating toward positions of leadership, and 4) having a fairly volatile temper.
Both of these little twerps need a good old fashion bitch slap out back. Anyone want to set up a Bitch Slap booth at Bentleyville for the little men? |
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82354 - Sat Dec 5 19:49:57 2009 - [Good Sister Cities AFSCME ho jobs ] By: Pitt Street Panther |
Common Sns,
Duluth's Sister Cities is bringing a lot of good AFSCME ho jobs to DFL Duluth. Minneapolis to Chicago, DFL Duluth's Sister Cities is very profitable for the AFSCME folk. And don’t forget about the DFLDFD and all those extra calls used to pad their existence. |
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82353 - Sat Dec 5 19:21:36 2009 - [Taxpayers always pay for DFL screw ups] By: Cathy R |
Why isn't the public being informed about the status of the St Louis County Commissioners sexual harassment law suit? Will they be held responsible if they're found guilty or are taxpayers held responsible for the damages? Are there special provisions made for Commissioners?
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82352 - Sat Dec 5 15:06:18 2009 - [Many criminals employed in public sector] By: Slippery Slope |
| In many instances we have criminals in public office running things. Fire them. Ha Ha Also don't forget employees at UMD are public employees. Fire them. Ha Ha |
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82351 - Sat Dec 5 13:36:30 2009 - [More DFL Duluth influence?] By: Big Iron |
| Comments were allowed on Raymond's LATEST charge for about 2 hours. Then little Brandon deleted them. Couldn't be because UMD spends a fair amount of money advertising with the DNT, could it? |
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82350 - Sat Dec 5 13:28:11 2009 - [Don't condone sexual harassment] By: Former Student |
| I think Raymond needs to go. I never heard anything concerning with regards to him while I attended UMD but these harassment charges or allegations need to be taken serious. Sexual harassment is a crime and we don't need criminals at our institutions influencing young adults. If Raymond sexually harassed ANY student, he needs to resign or be fired. Women should not ever be treated as second-class citizens and by allowing this behavior by an instructor is condoning the same. Fire Raymond |
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82349 - Sat Dec 5 10:36:30 2009 - [Looking to grind him into dust] By: Ivan M |
| It was interesting that the newest Raymond article did not allow comments so I emailed Stahl inquiring why comments were not allowed. I received a nice email back from some underling stating that they select which articles to allow posts based on whether or not the DNT feels the comments will or will not get out of hand. With that being said I wonder if there is a little piling on or a setup being conducted with regard to Mr Raymond. The movement is surely out to get him because he represents everything evil about the male of the species. In their minds he needs to be brought to heal and be a good little boy. Now, Raymond is undoubtedly a nit whit but the wheels of the feminist movement are looking to grind him into dust. Just my opinion! |
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82348 - Fri Dec 4 23:08:40 2009 - [Just a matter of time till UMD gets sued] By: Muffin Top |
| UMD needs to fire that maggot trainer. It's only a matter of time before UMD gets sued and what a poor example of standing up for women's rights. |
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82347 - Fri Dec 4 22:07:54 2009 - [More moving to Duluth for handouts] By: hand up or hands up |
| Duluth News Tribune Friday December 4, 2009. "Neediest suffer as charities lose cash" front page. Three more roll in from Minneapolis welcomed with open arms by CHUM into temporary housing while while looking for more permanent housing and of course a job. |
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82346 - Fri Dec 4 13:01:18 2009 - [More DFL Duluth wasting taxpayer $$$$] By: Common Sns |
Re: "Sister "Cities"
Other than each cities delegations visting each other, and wining and dining each other at great expense, what the heck does "Sister Cities" actually accomplish.
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82345 - Fri Dec 4 12:21:24 2009 - [He needs to ride around in DFD ambulance] By: Dennis Miller |
| I think Raymond should get one of the DFD "full service" ambulance jobs that open up. |
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82344 - Fri Dec 4 11:36:25 2009 - [Another complaint filed against Raymond] By: Web Hound |
Another complaint filed against Raymond
Officials at the University of Minnesota Duluth are investigating another complaint filed against school fitness instructor and well-known local business owner Rod Raymond, according to the school’s human resources director, Judith Karon.
http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/153793/ |
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82343 - Fri Dec 4 10:25:56 2009 - [Sister Cities more money or none?] By: Web Hound |
BUZZ Blog: Should Sister Cities have its tax subsidy increased, or get no subsidy at all?
http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/pages/buzz
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82342 - Fri Dec 4 08:15:13 2009 - [Caution to Duluth Taxpayers] By: Tourv |
Caution to Duluth Taxpayers, don't fall for the Duluth Fire Department's "spin" on their attempt to Make money on providing ambulance service.
This was talked about over 11 years ago when, during the Doty era, we thought about reducing the expenses of our fire department. The department was up in arms because even back then we knew they needed to find "something" to keep them viable in the realm of public opinion.
When this committee makes their recommendation, as Duluth Taxpayers, you must ask the critical questions that revolve around on-going and secondary expenses. They are enormous. The Duluth fire department has for years been trying to save their jobs from disappearing and as our economy gets worse, we look at efficiencies in government and in looking at your fire department, we saw grossly negligent misuse of taxpayer money in several areas. It's still happening now.
If I were Mayor, I would reduce the fire department personnel by almost one-third and would show how it can be done without compromising safety.
Those committee meetings are open to the public. I encourage people to attend. |
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82340 - Thu Dec 3 09:14:34 2009 - [Everyone's freedom] By: 60's Warrior |
Corporal, If you knew Larry "the cable world" as I did growing up you would call him a draft dodger to. He was always playing the tough guy at our union meetings and speaking loudly on the picket lines. Larry would let us all know he "was gonna go down to the non-union site and raise some hell". Having worked with unions and currently employ union labor now, I always thought that the leaders in the union movement were tough and do what is right for us workers. It's not so with Larry. He has put on a big show the last 20 years in his demeanor and "talking tough". Larry the draft dodger can't hold a candle to the likes of several former leaders such as Roy, Buck or Jones.
Having recently found out Larry ran from the draft, myself and many other union members want him gone as the editor. He talks a big game but when it was his turn to play in the real game, he pussed out..period. So Corporal, it appears you have your liberal opinion and I have a different opinion. Isn't that what we fought? Everyones freedom, inluding Larry "the draft dodger's" freedom. |
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82339 - Wed Dec 2 14:56:42 2009 - [Please elaborate a little more] By: researcher |
| Was able to find information on the battle of Con Thien and something on Gio Linh in Vietnam but at a loss when it comes to Gio Thien that changed your life Corporal. Perhaps you can elaborate a little more. Thanks |
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82338 - Tue Dec 1 22:12:32 2009 - [DFL Douche Doty resents talk radio] By: Duke W |
| Ralph Doty will continue to attack the Midwest for two reasons. One, because Duluth was given a conservative voice by Ron Stone and it aroused a movement in Duluth that has not been aroused in years. He nor anyone in his liberal camp can stop it. Two, he was fired by Ron Stone and he cannot get over it. If Duluth is lucky, that movement will elect one of the people that had a voice on the station that Doty has such a resentment for...Carinda Horton. Her time on the air got her a lot of attention well beyond Duluth. Too bad for Ralph, all he has left now is a bi-weekly unpaid newspaper column with nothing to write about but Midwest and Ron Stone! |
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82337 - Tue Dec 1 22:07:51 2009 - [Awesome] By: D I |
| I don't know who the other council person was-after I read the article in the paper I was pissed. Bentley gets nothing for this display and the work hours that were put in is something else. I have a friend that went down and helped and she said a lot of the people work for him and did this on their own. One of the workers told me they got in toys and food-it is awsome. |
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82336 - Tue Dec 1 21:23:20 2009 - [To dodge or not to dodge] By: Joel Syphilis |
60's Warrior,
I really wonder if your buddy Labor World Larry would draft dodge to Cananda for this commander-in-chief after watching Obama's speech. To dodge or not to dodge, that is the question. Either way, the yellow belly would never volunteer like the brave men and women of today's military. |
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82335 - Tue Dec 1 18:59:30 2009 - [With a little more information ] By: Cynic |
| I wish I could still see a couple of the people that died in Vietnam rather than the draft dodgers they died for or in place of. They are not here to speak for themselves. Perhaps with a little more information they too could have been draft dodgers. I miss you guys. |
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82334 - Tue Dec 1 18:14:29 2009 - [Who was the other one?] By: Inquirind Minds |
D I,
In addition to Stauber, who was the other one? |
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82333 - Tue Dec 1 16:01:25 2009 - ["Hats Off" to Corporal D.W.S] By: Me Again |
| A figurative "Hats Off" to Corporal D.W.S...finally some common sense on this blog. No hate, no spew, no ignorance...just common sense. Thank you to all military men and women for their service. |
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82332 - Tue Dec 1 11:12:53 2009 - [Natural gas is not cheaper in DFL Duluth] By: LIB Reader Online |
I do not think that money grows on trees in DFL Duluth. Whether it is the toughest times ever, DFL politicians find any way possible to take more of your hard earned money away from you.
This is another obvious example to go GREEN and why you can only afford to read the LIB online for free, leaving you a little more money for the DFL thieves to take in the form of higher utility, taxes, fees, and fines. On the bright side, reading the LIB online saves trees and energy.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Duluth News Tribune
Published December 01 2009
Reader's view: If natural gas is cheaper, why a rate hike
Regarding the bandwagon jump for a natural gas rate increase (“City asks for its own rate hike,” Nov. 5, and, “City Council rejects utility rate increase,” Nov. 9): This immediate past summer we were made glowing promises by the city that a gas-rate reduction could be possible because of cheaper natural gas due to a glut on the market.
What is the city paying now compared to 2008? Why were we threatened with a rate increase when natural gas is cheaper? I suggest before this comes up again, the City Council check into the current price of natural gas, what the city is paying and why any rate increase would be necessary. It’s time to jump off the bandwagon.
Catherine M. Patten
Duluth
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82331 - Tue Dec 1 09:41:38 2009 - [Minnesotans for Global Warming Latest] By: Tony R |
Check out the latest on the Duluth News Tabloid; Minnesotans for Global Warming Latest: Hide the Decline.
It’s a catchy tune that you will appreciate in the months to come.
Ciao!
The " REAL" Tony Ramone
ramoneanthony@gmail.com
http://www.duluthcitizensblog.com
http://duluthnewstabloid.blogspot.com
http://www.facebook.com/people/Tony_Ramone/1497522456
http://www.youtube.com/DCBtony
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82330 - Tue Dec 1 09:23:50 2009 - [Unsustainable burden purge middle class ] By: Shell Game |
| For the DFL, from D.C. to Duluth, it has become a shell game. Not a peanut type shell but a turtle shell game. Donnys' and Obamas' popularity fails quickly now as unsustainable burdens become part of the middle class citizens every day life. The degree of damage to America from this trainwreck mushrooms hourly due to DFL runaway unaccountable economics and politics. The DFL spineless need and greed for socialism fails us all dramatically as common sense is further ignored. The outcome of the DFL shell game becomes clearly obvious as the turtles head appears more and more often from the end where it's tail is, than where common sense says it anatomically should be! |
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82329 - Tue Dec 1 07:28:42 2009 - [People have rights, not responsibilities] By: Corporal D.W.S |
Having been through hell and back I'd like to respond to another military member who identifies himself as 60s warrior.You have spoken up against an individual who during the disastrous and Washington run Vietnam War chose not to enter service because of his convictions against such. You would have no idea exactly why he made that decision nor what information was given to him prior to.I suspect he had enough information to know that the war was being run by the politicians in D.C. rather than our leaders on the ground, replicating what is happening now in Afghanistan.
My life completely change in June of 69'near Gio Thien in Vietnam. That day I saw and heard things I'll never forget and for me, if I had to go through that so someone else didn't have to, well sobeit. I don't despise or have any hard feelings for those fellow Americans who chose not to go when called upon. Their conscience was their guide and who can fault them for that. 60s warrior thanks for your spirited and gut wrenching service during the politically run Vietnam conflict. |
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82328 - Mon Nov 30 23:04:17 2009 - [Duluth; Money Tree of the North?] By: D I |
| I sincerely MR. STAUBER goes down to Bentleyville and gets blinded by the lights! I worked down there tonight (Mon.) and will go back with kids to walk thru it. People came out smiling and saying "we're coming back with friends" they have taken in food and toys. One of the Bentleyville employees that has been volunteering there said if you could see the amount of toys being brought in it would bring tears to your eyes. SHAME ON STAUBER AND THEOTHER ONE THAT SAID WE DONT WANT TO PAY FOR THE LIGHTS. The city has funded the aquarium and I go every year, with granddaughter as she loves it, I would never, ever go there-the zoo I love but the fish????? |
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82327 - Mon Nov 30 22:08:29 2009 - [Doty almost as bad as the DFD?] By: Can't you see the light |
Another one to add to Ralph: A has-been. A has been politician. If his brother Gary is as bad is he is, then no wonder Duluth is in such bad shape.
P.S. It's good to see people on this blog talk about something OTHER than the DFD! |
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82326 - Mon Nov 30 19:35:27 2009 - [Doty; very, very, strange dude] By: Little Ralphy |
"What's wrong with Ralph Doty?"
Where do you start to describe Ralph Doty??
"Small man's complex"?
"Egomaniac"?
"Napoleon Complex?"
Always bragging about himself in a crowd.
Not to mention always slaming anyone, and everyone, who dares dissagree with him.
Talking in a shout so people will look at him!
Just to name a few
Very, very, strange dude!
What's really puzzling, is that he is an educated man but only uses 1/2 of his brain? Never balances anything in his columns! His tirade about Glenn Beck will NOT be balanced with a tirade about someone like Keith Olbermann, the left's version of Glenn Beck. Ralph has no problem with Olbermann or his ilk.
But when Ralph is painted as a "Liberal", he has one of his little meltdowns. Of course you're a flaming liberal Ralph. Read your own columns or just listen to what comes out of your mouth!
For someone as educated as |
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82325 - Mon Nov 30 19:02:36 2009 - [Doty jealous because he got the boot] By: Can't you see the light |
Hey Web hound,,, I see Ralph dousche's (Doty's) Va-gi-gi is aching again. I don't even bother reading his garbage so it looks like one person did. So he wants to talk about Glenn Beck calling a democrat politician a prostitute, huh? How about the news media and Sarah Palin? they've pretty much called her everything but a prostitute. Just give them time they will. They even dig into her family. Now Glenn and Rush and all of them never once dive into Obama's family especially his kids. His wife opened her mouth so she was fair game.
Doty is just jealous because he was kicked off WDSM because his show sucked, and no one wanted to hear him. And shows like Beck, rush are successful. |
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82322 - Mon Nov 30 12:18:57 2009 - [Life sentence commuted by Huckabee] By: HypoChristians Unite aka C |
Did anyone read that story on the cop killer in Seattle? Can you believe he had his life sentence commuted? And then he violates his parole by raping a child and assaulting a cop in the past, not to mention his extensive criminal record. It was probably some cry baby, bleeding heart liberal who set him free.
Oh wait...it was then Super-Christian, Governor Mike Huckabee. Funny I did not see him apologize on his show last night (granted I could only stomach a couple minutes of Chuck Wholerly).
I must be confused, could someone please tell be how we can blame the Democrats from liberal Arkansas for this? |
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82321 - Mon Nov 30 12:11:56 2009 - [What's wrong with Ralph Doty?] By: Web Hound |
What's wrong with Ralph Doty?
http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/153085/group/Budgeteer/ |
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82320 - Mon Nov 30 11:30:34 2009 - [Railroaded - No stopping at a billion] By: Cynic |
| Ha, watch the cost for the rail climb much higher than any estimate once the contractors get their usual added costs due to unforeseen problems that arise during construction. |
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82319 - Mon Nov 30 09:44:41 2009 - [$1 billion train ride to Duluth] By: DFL Crime Watch |
Published November 30 2009
High-speed Duluth-Minneapolis rail line could cost nearly $1 billion
MINNEAPOLIS — State officials say the cost of the proposed high-speed rail line from Minneapolis to Duluth has climbed to nearly $1 billion, much higher than its supporters have estimated.
Proponents of the Northern Lights Express have pegged the cost at $615 million.
MnDOT project manager Dave Christianson says that after identifying “shortcomings in the system,” the state believes the cost could run as high as $990 million.
The Star Tribune says consultants from MnDOT and the Northern Lights Express need to reach an agreement on the cost of the rail line in the next several weeks so the state can submit an application for federal funding, which could pay for as much as 80 percent of the project.
Forty other states are competing for federal dollars.
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82318 - Sun Nov 29 23:10:39 2009 - [You are paying for the best, DFD] By: Big Iron |
| Just down from Dodge St. You have and are paying for the best, boys. Sleep well tonight. |
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82317 - Sun Nov 29 20:08:42 2009 - [Celebrate DFL Duluth Diversity] By: sign of the times |
Celebrate DFL Duluth Diversity http://www.thoseshirts.com/diversity.html
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82316 - Sun Nov 29 18:02:15 2009 - [DFD most expensive in the U.S.] By: Dodge St |
| So the DFD is the most expensive fire department in the nation when you add all things up. humm.. |
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82315 - Sun Nov 29 11:40:30 2009 - [DFD union should allow members to serve] By: Cynic |
I don't know if this letter to the editor was posted or not.
"Old El Paso has a great television commercial for hard shell and soft shell tacos: Why can’t we have both?
Firefighting is one of the most rewarding careers an individual can have. Whether as a career or as a volunteer, and whether rescuing someone from a burning building or caring for a person’s medical needs, the profession is all about helping others.
A union and a firefighter (whether career or volunteer) serve the same purpose, to help others. A union is organized to help employees bargain with an employer, hence “helping others.” Firefighters (whether career or volunteer) protect life and property by combating, extinguishing and preventing fires — hence, again, “helping others.”
The Hermantown Volunteer Fire Department is truly grateful for the services and the knowledge of Bob Noldin, Brian Black and Sandy Merritt (“Union boots 3 firefighters for volunteering,” Nov. 14). They have been great additions to the fire department and, with the know-ledge and professionalism they bring, they have been great assets, helping serve the residents of the city of Hermantown.
I truly understand the needs of a union, and I truly understand the needs of a volunteer fire department. I would hope that someday soon an agreement could be made within the Duluth Firefighters Union to allow union firefighters from Duluth who wish to also be volunteer firefighters outside the city to do so. The need is truly warranted."
Jerry Huberty
Hermantown
The writer is a Hermantown Volunteer Fire Department firefighter. |
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82314 - Sun Nov 29 10:11:29 2009 - [DFLers receiving $338164 plus retirement] By: DFL Crime Watch |
When you add in the cost of DFL Duluth's unfunded retiree health care into the cost of the Duluth Fire Department, the DFD may be the most expensive FD in the USA.
As of 2006, DFL Duluth retirees were receiving $338,164 per retiree in UNFUNDED (not in the budget for the DFD) costs per worker, not counting their retirement. Here is the link where I found the info.
http://www.cato.org/pubs/tbb/tbb_0925-40.pdf
It looks to me like DFL Duluth is leading the universe in the mother of all financial cover-ups.
Friend of DFD, you are a smooth operator but have zero credibility as seen by the data on the state website. Your words are nothing more the DFL Kool-Aid if not backed up by published facts.
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82313 - Sun Nov 29 00:42:44 2009 - [Self serving DFD above brotherhood] By: Medic |
It was nice to see our Union go after the firefighters last Monday. The firemen are trying to take our jobs and our Union is finally standing up to them. To the Duluth Fire Department, I have a family to feed too and would appreciate if you'd let me do that. Don't force me out of my Union job so you can keep yours. That's not brotherhood.
The Retail Clerks support Gold Cross Ambulance. |
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82312 - Sun Nov 29 00:18:14 2009 - [DFD costs much more than DFD posted] By: facts |
Chris: For all of the data check here: http://www.osa.state.mn.us/Search/CitySearch.aspx . the most current data is from 2007
Fire $15,497,597 $181.39
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82311 - Sat Nov 28 22:44:46 2009 - [Superior process fair unlike Duluth] By: in the news |
| Superior will have Gold Cross on their task force. |
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82310 - Sat Nov 28 22:34:04 2009 - [DFD numbers twisted] By: Inside Look |
Here is the proof of the DFD budget... Read pgs 31, 32, and 33. The budget is actually 12.8M divided by 86000, which equals $149 per person. The populations of MPLS and ST Paul were actually higher than what "Friend of DFD" was reporting. This puts DFD the 2nd most expensive FD in the state of MN....behind only St Paul Fire which provides what???? An ambulance service...ironic.
Here is the link that provides the REAL numbers. Note that DFD is divided into 3 different cost centers... and I am not even taking building inspection into account.
http://www.duluthmn.gov/finance/2010%20levy%20and%20general%20fund%20budget.pdf |
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82309 - Sat Nov 28 22:01:11 2009 - [Don't Trust DFD Ministers of Propaganda] By: Chris |
Friend of DFD,
Where can I see the state data you referenced for myself? It's not that I don't trust you, but as political as the fire department union is, I need to see for myself.
Thank you.
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82307 - Sat Nov 28 20:24:41 2009 - [What about DFD retiree health care?] By: Friend of DFD |
Rich T
I apoligize if I came off hostile to you. That was not my intent. I know that I am correct when I say that there are 5 ambulances at any given time, however I also know that they can call back crews to fill in if needed, so I think that are the crews you are talking about. Unless it is at shift change or something like that. As for the stationing downtown that still doesn't meet the PSA that Mayo should know all to well, and no one has said how long it will last so we don't know. As for those other ambulance groups you mentioned, you can only compare cloquet and virgina to gold cross because they are ALS, not to say BLS is bad but they are not the same skills. Those to ambulances are run by their respective fire departments and they are a long way from duluth for covering calls.
Dodge St,
You may be up from the secretary's house but your not by mine as I am not nor have I ever been or will be the secretary. So no I am not the Erik that you speak of. As for the 92% thing Gold cross goes on the same calls as the DFD so does that mean if they are MINOR medical as you say, maybe DFD should start up a BLS ambulance and then have Gold Cross only take the MAJOR medical since DFD is there anyway.
And you keep bringing up this most expensive FD in the state. I have looked at some numbers on some of the cities in minnesota and found this to not be the case. For example DFD has a budget forecast next year of just over 11 million for 86,000 which comes out to $127 per capita I believe. MPLS has a budget of 55 million for 350,000 pop which makes it $157, St Paul is at 50 million for 275,000 pop for $181, Rochester is at approx 101,000 with 13 million for $128 and finally St Cloud is at $7.8 million for 67,000 for $116. So you see if you really look at the numbers they are actually 4th most expensive of those major cities. However they are the LARGEST in the SQ MILES that they cover (68) in comparision and they probably have the greatest potential for disaster due to the areas they cover. So enough with the MOST EXPENSIVE in the state stuff because it isn't true.
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82305 - Sat Nov 28 12:28:45 2009 - [Dance to the DFD music] By: Slippery Slope |
| Come on Dodge St. DFD is not used to people who don't dance to their tune. They have to try and make you look angry and hateful even though you are just another ignorant taxpayer. |
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82304 - Sat Nov 28 12:12:55 2009 - [Taxpayers forced to fund DFD ] By: Slippery Slope |
It would be nice to know if a larger percentage of Gold Cross employees actually live in Duluth than DFD personnel.
TONY: Slippery, Gold Cross is a private business. Are taxpayers forced to contribute to Gold Cross like they are for DFD funding of wages and benefits second to none? Nope. What is the motivation for the DFD to cut costs in DFL Duluth? None, because the DFD do as they want scheme continually passes it all on to the taxpayers. |
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82303 - Sat Nov 28 00:41:01 2009 - [Up the block from the Secretarys] By: Dodge St. |
I am still living just up from the secretary's house Starfire. I love my neighborhood and most of my neighbors.
STARFIRE: Dodge St., thanks for the clarification. I don't know much about Dodge St., but rumor has it some bloke lives on the corner of Dodge and about 51st with a nice white picket fence and loves to drink Kool Aid according to his/her political signs. Who knows, maybe this person is actually pouring the Kool Aid. |
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82302 - Sat Nov 28 00:38:59 2009 - [Proud of DFD PAC's political tactics ] By: Pro-DFD |
| Dodge St your showing your ignorance. You are just an angry individual who can't stand us. Why is it you hate the fire department. We want what is best for Duluth and the taxpayers. The Duluth Fire Department is one of the most professional departments in the Midwest. We are recognized as being well trained, multi-disciplined and politically organized. I take pride in our fire PAC. we have been almost 90 percent successful in our endorsements and we are proud of that. Dodge st, I want to call a truce. I would like to meet with you and have a conversation that will benefit us both. We have an idea who you are and it will be nice for all this bantering on this BS blog to end once and for all. It should be obvious who I AM. |
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82301 - Sat Nov 28 00:30:38 2009 - ["Labor World" Larrry slithered North] By: 60's Warrior |
Hey "Labor World" Larry, what are your thoughts on Obama sending more troops to Afghanistan. Are you for or against it.
Keeping in mind you dodged your call to duty when our country called you during the Vietnam war.
You allowed someone else to fight for you,die for you and then you pretend to "work" on behalf of us union workers. Give it up Larry, the majority of union workers don't support yo anymore after your draft dodging days.
What Canadien city did you run to. I can't believe my 8th street buddy chose not to defend our country. |
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82300 - Fri Nov 27 23:01:16 2009 - [DFD got overtime to reheat the spaghetti] By: Dodge St |
Rusty Trombone STFU you stupid liberal. Yes I have used the fire department. My cat was stuck in my neighbors tree. I had to wake 2 sleeping firemen up at the Lakeside hall. They came only after eating their award winning spaghetti. They rescued my cat with professional precision. Called the big Ladder truck from downtown. Put on a really good show for the neighbors. Cost the taxpayers about $1600 to get my cat out of the tree. Great job DFD.
STARFIRE: Dodge St, are you by chance just up from the Secretary's house? |
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82299 - Fri Nov 27 20:43:02 2009 - [DCB Holiday Party?] By: Unkowing LY |
Is there going to be a DCB Holiday Party? I think it'd b fun to see who we are talking 2. Come on Cynic, where can we meet?
STARFIRE: Unkowing LY, there will be a Holiday Party this year, as usual. Not sure if you are on the list or if you are planning on pulling a Tareq and Michaele Salahi. I told mom that I want the night off to go and visit with comrades and get out of the basement for the night. She agreed so I'll be there. See you there. We have a lot to celebrate this year including the defeat of yet another of "C"s candidates. In a previous election, "C" pimped Clokey and with her blessing, he went down. This time around "C" pimped Beth Olson and wouldn't you know, same result. "C" has previously stated her third candidate of choice is DDT, Delicious Deb Tayor. With "C"'s blessing, DFL Deb is sure to meet the same fate as the others pimped by "C". Come on "C", give her your public support so that Tony and Associates can get to work. Things are kind of slow in the basement with all the underwear folded and all. |
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82298 - Fri Nov 27 19:15:59 2009 - [DFDPAC-still most expensive in Minnesota] By: Slippery Slope |
This story was covered on NBC nightly news tonight.
"An ambulance service, known as "Darien EMS – Post 53" is the only ambulance service in the nation staffed and run entirely by high school student volunteers." |
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82297 - Fri Nov 27 18:33:13 2009 - [Tax-funded 'wethouse' already exists] By: JBBP |
Wm S, we already have a tax-funded 'wethouse' where drunks can go to live, providing them with a 'safe' place to imbibe.
We already have liquor stores being funded, in part, with tax dollars from the drunks who buy liquor with their disability checks that were granted to them for being drunks.
I propose a municipal smoking area, where smokers can safely use tobacco.
Thank you. |
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82296 - Fri Nov 27 15:48:37 2009 - [Special Interest DFD PAC cheaper, not! ] By: Tough Times |
| It is tough times right now for ambulance companies. People are not paying their bills and Uncle Sam is not wanting to pay what it costs either. Is this the time for the taxpayers to take over where a private sector business is struggling to make end meet. Do you really think a very expensive fire department is going to do it cheaper? Dream on DFL Duluth. |
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82295 - Fri Nov 27 15:39:54 2009 - [1 call every 12 hrs = 23 hours of sleep ] By: statistics |
| 8000 divide by 365 is 22 calls per day. How many fire halls? 9 or 11? OK say 9.......22 calls divided by 9 fire halls is 2.5 calls per fire hall per day or about one call every 12 hours. |
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82294 - Fri Nov 27 15:29:28 2009 - [DFD takeover; "Talk about Stupidity"] By: Slippery Slope |
So what if the DPD transport someone to the hospital with a DFD person riding along. I've heard that same story 3 times now. So because the DPD transported someone to a hospital we the taxpayers should start spending millions of dollars taking over an ambulance service. Talk about stupidity.
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82293 - Fri Nov 27 14:25:02 2009 - [DFD fire hall needed on every corner] By: Rusty Trombone |
| hey DODGE ST, Have you or any family member needed an to use 911 for medical help? I am pretty sure anyone that gets to the point of calling does not think it is a minor situation!! If 90 some percent is nothing for dfd this is also true to GCAS...now if this 90% is true sounds like you should hate the game , not the player.... go on a crusade to stop people from using 911 seems you can figure out anything>> |
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82292 - Thu Nov 26 22:28:35 2009 - [NE MN demise during Oberstar 16 terms] By: Can't you see the light |
Speaking of Jim Oberstar...I think we should all remember that it was HIM who proposed legislation this past year that would put a GPS tracking device on EVERY vehicle to track the mileage to tax you more. That is an invasion of privacy if I ever saw one.
He has secured money to refurbish and build highways, which is what is expected of him. That is his job, it is nothing special that someone else wouldn't be able to do.
He also Has proposed legislation for the past several years that would give federal control of every waterway from lakes and rivers to mud puddles on your property. So you buy some land and there is a puddle of water on it, you can't build anything on it you have to get the feds involved.
Also, he sure hasn't done much as far as job growth, as the 8th congressional district has the highest unemployment rate in Minnesota. When he first got elected Duluth and Souix Falls, SD were about the same in population. Now, Souix falls has MANY more opportunities for jobs than we do here. No one can argue that Duluth is loosing population, as is the rest of northern MN. |
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82291 - Thu Nov 26 22:26:21 2009 - [Thanksgiving Day Home Burglary] By: Locals Gone Wild |
DATE: 11/26/2009
NATURE OF INCIDENT: Home Burglary
CASE NO.: 09404825
INCIDENT DATE :11/26/2009
INCIDENT TIME: 1010 hours
INCIDENT LOCATION: 2219 West 4th Street
SUBJECT: Suspect in Custody for Thanksgiving Day Home Burglary
BY: Officer Brad Wick, Information Coordinator
This morning at 10:10 AM, Duluth Police went to 2219 West 4th Street on the report that the owners returned to find their home being burglarized. The male suspect, who is known by the owners, had a brief confrontation with one of them and then fled from the front of the home.
The first officer arriving on scene broadcasted a description of the suspect and possible location he may be headed to. Other officers arriving in the area locate the male suspect at 27th Avenue West and #2 Alley. Rico Keshon Gause, age 34 of Duluth, was taken into custody and later transported to the St. Louis County Jail where he is being held pending formal charges for First Degree Burglary.
The owners told Officers that they were in the process of packing their vehicle to leave for the weekend when Gause walked by. Gause, who is known by owners, had a brief conversation with them that includes discussion of their weekend plans and when they will be returning. The owners finished loading their vehicle and left only to return a short time later to retrieve some forgotten items. When they arrived back home they find the back door kicked in and the home rummaged through. They then see Gause fleeing out the front door.
The investigation has been referred to the Duluth Police Department Property Crimes Unit. No further information is available at this time.
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82290 - Thu Nov 26 21:07:07 2009 - [DFD Bros right on] By: Pro-DFD |
| Mr. friend of DFD...right on...right on...right on... brother. |
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82289 - Thu Nov 26 21:03:42 2009 - [DFD lies and fleecing will be over] By: Dodge St. |
| Just up from the secretary's house. Friend of DFD, YOUR FULL OF SHIT. 92% of all your calls are minor medical. Don't make shit up anymore. Your on your last leg and soon enough we'll have volunteers supplementing you guys. Nice try Erik! The fleecing will soon be over. Your being exposed for who you are," the most expensive fire department in the entire state" |
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82288 - Thu Nov 26 14:56:38 2009 - [DFD could do a better job is a lie] By: Rich T. |
Friend of DFD, you're coming across a bit hostile there buddy. I can't tell you my exact job, but let's just say "I listen to the scanner quite a bit." I have no problems with DFD or their service either, which people are only assuming is the case.
I understand Gold Cross management has made some poor decisions, and that their property owner on 2nd St managed to screw the city over royally by shutting down the downtown station, but that doesn't mean they are not downtown anymore. They station at hospitals and other headquarters for hours - I feel awful they have to be in those conditions, but everyone knows it's only temporary.
And just as an FYI it's not only 5 ambulances covering the districts you mentioned. During rotating hours there's as many as 9 Gold Cross units available (if needed). Not to mention Southern St. Louis is covered by Cloquet Ambulance, Floodwood Ambulance (BLS) and Meadowlands Ambulance (BLS) with the option of using Virgina Ambulance in certain parts.
I didn't mention half of what you responded to, but that's fine. All I said is don't expect this to go anywhere. For Councilors Anderson and Cuneo to ask questions about the service is fine. To suggest that there is a shortage somewhere and that DFD could do better is not only biased, but it's a hearty lie - take it from someone who really knows.
Happy Thanksgiving. |
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82287 - Thu Nov 26 12:41:02 2009 - [DFD should run everything in Duluth] By: Friend of DFD |
Rich T
You talk about against the law. How about the fact that according to the Minnesota PSA law that everyone is talking about Gold Cross doesn't meet it anymore. In a class 1 city such as Duluth your an ambulance district is measured by 8 minutes or 10 miles from that station. By Gold cross closing the downtown station they no longer cover the east part of town according to the Minnesota PSA law. Also do you know that Duluth, Southern St Louis County, Superior and Douglas County are covered by only 5 yes 5 ambulances. 3 in Duluth, 1 in Superior and 1 in Hawthorne. The scanner tells me that there are many times that there are more than the 3 medical calls that we have ambulances for in Duluth ALONE. DFD has 5 stations that could house ambulances with NO remodeling. Superior fire is also looking at doing the ambulance in their city.
What about the calls lately that Gold Cross can't respond to. A lifting assist that turning into a code 2 medical that took about 45 minutes for them to show up. Or the chest pain medical the other day tha t had to be transported by DPD with a DFD rider because of NO ETA for Gold Cross. No one hears about this stuff unless you know someone or you listen to the scanner. This is nothing against the street paramedics I am sure that they do a great job with what they have to work with. But to say that all DFD does is hold open doors is rediculous. Listen to the scanner. It is Gold Cross management that has put them in this not the paramedics or the DFD. Closing stations and reducing staff or making them work unbelieveable hours is what has led to this.
Also, the current split is about 60-40 for medical vs fire. They still respond to many fires and other incidents. In closing, an ICR gives 1 yes 1 call of the over 8000 they went on last year. If they send 1 or 50 trucks to the scene it is 1 ICR. Before you completely dismiss everything do some research and give it a chance in both directions. |
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82286 - Thu Nov 26 10:21:04 2009 - [LIB BS ALERT] By: LIB Reader Online |
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
This one has to go under LIB BS ALERT.
This letter writer must be at the trough or dependent on handouts.
I challange anyone to tell me what Oberstar has done that any other elected Congressman would not have done, other than Oberstars accomplishments below.
1. Duluth poverty rate over 2 times the rest of the state.
2. Duluth has been dying business town for all of Oberstars 34 years.
3. Wages way less than the state average.
Thankful for Oberstar, you have are delusional at best.
In the meantime, save your money for the DFL tax increases, fees and increase fines and enforcement, by reading the LIB online for free, which also saves energy and the trees.
___________________________________________________________________________
Published November 26 2009
Reader's view: Oberstar has done many good things for us
I was shocked, but not surprised, by the reference made to unemployment and U.S. Rep. Jim Oberstar in the Nov. 12 letter, “Oberstar, Democrats making false promises.” I found it fascinating that a person who just moved to Minnesota could so harshly criticize someone as influential and community-driven as Oberstar.
I am concerned about our country, as well. I would encourage the letter writer to research the accomplishments of Oberstar and the good things he has done for our community and others. I don’t think Oberstar would have lasted as long as he has if it weren’t for his accomplishments and the people’s faith in him.
Changes take time, and unemployment is not just magically going to go away. A Republican president left a mess for Democrats and Republicans to clean up; have we forgotten that already? Oberstar is a leader, and he works for the people. Don’t count him out.
Dana Nelson
Duluth
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82285 - Thu Nov 26 10:07:34 2009 - [DFL Duluth is the leader of the pack.] By: LIB Reader Online |
This letter writer understands why you can only afford to read the LIB online for free, saving money for the DFL extrotion of your money, and saving energy and the trees.
From Russia to Venezuela to Cuba to Washington, the tax, fee, fine scheme is most oppressive right here in Duluth. DFL Duluth is the leader of the pack.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Duluth News Tribune
Published November 25 2009
Reader's view: School Board, newspaper act as parasites
Did anyone else see the irony of the News Tribune editorial board imploring its readers to turn out and vote for four School Board incumbents whose stated mission denied those same readers an opportunity to vote on a plan that confiscates $400 million of taxpayer money by fabricating a perverse interpretation of state law contrary to the intent of its author (“Vote your head, not your anger; vote for progress, not for punishment,” Nov. 1)?
Did anyone else see the irony of the News Tribune editorial board imploring its readers to turn out and vote for four School Board incumbents whose stated mission denied those same readers an opportunity to vote on a plan that confiscates $400 million of taxpayer money by fabricating a perverse interpretation of state law contrary to the intent of its author (“Vote your head, not your anger; vote for progress, not for punishment,” Nov. 1)?
The incumbent school board had no credibility. What about the editorial board?
Relentless parasites eager to hijack governmental authority in order to extract resources they did not earn from productive, private citizens exist everywhere, from Russia to Venezuela to Cuba to Washington to right here in Duluth. Whether they’re justifying eminent domain against a local business and parking lot, nationalizing health care to enslave the medical community or using cap-and-trade to cripple entire industries, these parasites are on us. I hope enough of us wake up and recognize them and that in coming elections we put our representatives in office at all levels, local through federal, so we can dismantle these bureaucracies before the political process breaks down completely.
Tony Wanta
Duluth
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82284 - Thu Nov 26 09:57:56 2009 - [DFD wants to know Dodge St. identity] By: Bill G |
| DELETED why don't you use your real name instead of Dodge St.? |
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82283 - Thu Nov 26 08:24:06 2009 - [What next? DFL municipal liquor stores?] By: Wm S |
| As long as Duluth is considering going up against the private sector for ambulance service, why don't they open some municipal liquor stores? |
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82282 - Wed Nov 25 23:59:10 2009 - [Gotta shake my head here Pro-DFDer] By: Rich T. |
Pro-DFD, gotta shake my head here. First, there's no way you can save money by providing a new service that currently isn't provided by the city or taxpayers. Unless, you are unfortunately stating that the medical runs of Duluth Fire as first responders are often unwarranted or unnecessary; and by transporting patients you would EARN money to cover those expenses. EARN and SAVE are two different words (expect in Benjamin Franklin's case).
Second, if you truly knew what was best for "taxpayers" you would know that most city funds come in from "taxpayers" in St. Louis County (read: not directly through the city treasury). Meaning, DFD would have to provide ambulance service to the outlaying townships that require Gold Cross now. You want to tie up #7 Station for an hour ride to Cotton on a routine patient pickup, or perhaps you would like to have a rig stand by at a structure fire in Normanna while the volunteers do all the fire fighting?
Seriously, the issue isn't going to fly even on angels' wings; drop it. |
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82281 - Wed Nov 25 23:36:26 2009 - [Betwixt the Wide Loads Stumps] By: mons veneris |
What in the world happened to "C"??? Her multiple handles have disappeared overnight from our local blogs. Perhaps shes off to europe shopping for the holidays. I've read on the net that shopping in London is wonderful this time of year.
STARFIRE: Mons Veneris, "C" appears to have her tail betwixt her tree trunks. At least that might confirm the Yeti allegation. Seriously, I think that the Duluth blogosphere is too much for the Carrboro Kid to handle. We are a long way from California here and as much as she likes to think she is the shit, reality arrives and "C" sees that she is just another transplant to Duluth like the many thousand others who have come in recent years to live on the rest of us. |
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82280 - Wed Nov 25 23:03:29 2009 - [DOUBLE DIPPER a true DFD standard] By: Dennis Miller |
Big Iron,
Aren't you going to the DFD's MOUTHpiece, Barney Frank Jr's for Thanksgiving or is it caREAR daze stuffing the trukies at the DFD tomorrow. In fact, that would make you a DOUBLE DIPPER Big Iron, a true DFD standard. |
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82279 - Wed Nov 25 22:41:46 2009 - [Holiday Pay 24 hour shift] By: Big Iron |
| Just down from Dodge St...Pop quiz!...How many hours at double time and a half do I get tomorrow? |
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82278 - Wed Nov 25 22:14:38 2009 - [Last quote about dubious response] By: Cynic |
The last quote about dubious response times was made by.......
Mark Bruning is the President of American Medical Response, Inc. and responsible for leading the successful implementation and achievement of the company’s financial, strategic and operational goals. His direct reports include AMR's Regional Chief Executive Officers and other key AMR executive and support staff. Involved in EMS for more than 25 years, Mark has worked as a paramedic, supervisor and a variety of senior operational leadership positions including his most recent role as the Executive Vice President for the company. He holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. He has served as the President of the Emergency Medical Services Association of Colorado (EMSAC). In 2005, he was awarded the Peg Hamilton award by the EMSAC Board of Directors for outstanding service to the Association and its members. |
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82277 - Wed Nov 25 22:00:42 2009 - [DD Fnot going taking a backseat ] By: Pro-DFD |
| Rich T. I will take one of my co-workers over any volunteer or Gold Cross paramedic in any situation. We train as professionals and will save the city money if allowed to become the ambulance provider for Duluth. We firefighters of the Duluth Fire Department are not going to take a backseat to anyone in this area. We know what is right and will fight for the taxpayers in any way we can. |
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82276 - Wed Nov 25 21:59:53 2009 - [Can no longer sustain the costs of DFD] By: Cynic |
You continually hear the DFD say how they can respond "faster" and how that will make us all safe. What it may actually due is make us all broke if they ever take over ambulance service in Duluth.
Quote: "It would appear that we can no longer sustain the costs of maintaining expensive, inefficient, all-ALS EMS systems that fail to produce data showing improved patient outcomes. Throwing money and resources at systems that are designed around the dubious response time criteria of a singular event, accounting for a low percentage of our total responses, is no longer an option in this economic climate.
In most communities, response time standards are based on data that is only relevant to cardiac arrest survival, despite the fact that cardiac arrest comprises of less than 2-4 percent of calls in virtually all EMS systems. This decision is extremely costly, offers dubious benefit to patients, and subjects EMS personnel and the public to unwarranted risk due to excessive use of emergent response for calls that are almost certainly non-emergent." |
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82275 - Wed Nov 25 21:56:13 2009 - [40 firefighters sleeping tonight] By: Dodge St |
| Just up from the secretary's house... Cynic, I think I love you. great information Our fleecing firefighters need a wakeup call. Lets cut them down to a size the taxpayers of Duluth can afford. Right now we have 40 firefighters sleeping or watching Backdraft for the 15th time. Can we do better. Yep combination of volunteer and paid much like Bloomington does. We can do it, "yes we can". Much like Obama's chant "yes we can" |
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82274 - Wed Nov 25 21:30:23 2009 - ["Ambulance Wars"] By: Cynic |
Just something I read on the internet. What some are saying about DFD appears to be true in many places when it comes to lack of fire calls.
"Ambulance Wars"
By Mr. Robin Johnson Jan. 16, 2002
EMS
"Many Michigan cities outsource for emergency medical services, including Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, and Ann Arbor.
In the 1990s, "ambulance wars" broke out when private and public emergency medical service (EMS) providers began battling over responsibility for ambulance services across the country. These "wars" became especially intense in California and Florida, with separate public and private crews sometimes arriving simultaneously at accident sites.
Ambulance wars have been due primarily to fire departments expanding their activities beyond firefighting. Over the past two decades, the number of home and building fires in the United States plunged 40 percent to 1.8 million annually, even as the number of paid firefighters increased 20 percent to 275,000. Because government fire departments are not subject to the same rigors of the marketplace, they needed to expand rescue activities to justify their survival, and so began to encroach upon the turf of EMS providers.
Since taking over the country's EMS services, Sunstar has reduced emergency response times by 30 seconds, with 90 percent reliability.
As a result, 90 percent of the emergency calls to firehouses in cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago and Miami today are for auto accidents and other non-fire-related medical emergencies. Private-sector EMS providers currently are doing battle with government's fire departments for supremacy in large cities such as New York, Denver, and Portland. In 2000, the Journal of Emergency Medical Services' annual survey of the 200 largest municipalities in the nation found that 188 have fire departments that provide first response for medical emergencies.
Before the full impact of ambulance wars was felt, the private EMS market was fragmented and decentralized, with a large number of "mom-and-pop" operations. Small ambulance firms are still around, but a large number have been bought out by larger firms as competition from fire departments has intensified.
The trend began in 1992, when four ambulance companies merged into American Medical Response (AMR). In 1997, AMR and another major provider, Laidlaw, merged, narrowing the market down to two national firms: AMR and Rural/Metro. Today, AMR operates in 35 states with 265 operations and a fleet of more than 4,000 vehicles. Rural/Metro serves more than 4,000 communities throughout the United States, including Michigan, and Latin America. Grand Rapids is the most populated of the Michigan cities relying on private providers. Other cities include Sterling Heights, Ann Arbor, Traverse City, Kalamazoo, Grand Ledge, Portage, and Jackson, as well as Wexford County.
Other factors fueled this consolidation of private EMS providers. One was the federal government's tightening of reimbursements for Medicare in the mid-1990s, which substantially slowed a large source of funds for ambulance providers. New federal guidelines issued under managed care also had the effect of restricting reimbursement of emergency medical transport.
Yet, the ability of private-sector EMS providers to adapt to changing conditions has enabled EMS privatization to expand dramatically in the past decade-and-a-half. In a 1988 survey of municipalities conducted by the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA), none reported the presence of private-sector ambulance services. A similar survey only 9 years later found such services in approximately 16.3 percent of cities nationwide. Such a rate of growth may not be sustainable over the long term, but the results from the ICMA surveys indicate a solid future for EMS privatization.
This growth should come as no surprise — private EMS providers outperform government in several categories. For example, 70 percent of private agencies have defibrillation devices (used for heart attacks), compared to only 48 percent of city fire-rescue agencies and rescue workers. More private agencies (48 percent) are using advanced technology, such as the automotive vehicle locator, than city fire-rescue agencies (20 percent). Perhaps most important of all, 66 percent of private, for-profit EMS providers are subject to external reviews by their governing municipalities.
Private EMS firms also can provide services less expensively than fire departments. For instance, privately employed paramedics (who make up 34.5 percent of all paramedics) don't cost as much as government firefighters. Typically, they make about 75 percent of the firefighters wages. And one hook-and-ladder truck used on an EMS run costs more than six ambulances.
In addition, contracts between municipalities and private EMS providers are moving to a performance-based model that ties funding, payment and resource allocation to the performance of the providers. Private firms are also are making better use of technology and accessing advanced equipment more quickly than public agencies-and enhanced technology promises to increase efficiency and save lives.
In fact, a hybrid private/public approach is being used in some cities, with evidence of success. Chicago and Los Angeles, for example, use private EMS providers who work in conjunction with fire departments to assure more rapid response times and lower per-capita EMS costs.
In 1997, California's San Mateo County joined forces with AMR to form San Mateo County Hospital Advanced Life Support Services. Under this public-private partnership, public fire agencies provide the first-response paramedics and AMR provides a second medic via ambulance as well as all the medical supplies, equipment, training and clinical oversight for both the public and private medics. Both the fire departments and AMR are subject to fines for non-performance under the terms of their contracts, and AMR shares payment with the fire departments for first response.
Since the program's inception, San Mateo County has increased its number of licensed and certified paramedics from approximately 60 to more than 220. Fire department paramedics are responding on time in nearly 98 percent of emergencies and private paramedics are responding on time in 95 percent of emergencies.
Elsewhere, public officials are warming to the idea of allowing open bidding for EMS service contracts. Last year, Pinellas County officials in Florida allowed such bidding between public and private EMS providers to see who could come up with the best deal for the least amount of money. The bid was won by Sunstar Emergency Medical Services, a private, all-paramedic ambulance and emergency response service that has an exclusive performance-based contract with the Pinellas County EMS Authority.
Since taking over the county's EMS services, Sunstar has reduced emergency response times by 30 seconds, with 90 percent reliability. It has increased non-emergency (not life-threatening) response compliance from 90 percent to 95 percent and instituted a policy under which only paramedics provide pre-arrival lifesaving instructions over the phone to 911 callers with medical emergencies. The company has upgraded equipment and software in its dispatch/communications center and received the National Academy of Emergency Medical Dispatch's Accredited Center of Excellence Award as a result. Sunstar will replace its vehicles every five years, and is projected to save Pinellas County between $13 million and $21 million over the next decade.
As companies like Sunstar continue to enhance their reputations and establish track records for excellence, public officials are likely to become more open to the idea of EMS privatization. While "ambulance wars" may continue in some parts of the nation, trends indicate a brighter future for privatization of emergency medical services."
Robin A. Johnson is Senior Fellow in Reason Public Policy Institute's Privatization Center in Los Angeles. His research focuses on privatization, government reform, and outsourcing, with an emphasis on small and rural municipal governments.
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82273 - Wed Nov 25 21:14:15 2009 - [Lost all my respect for DFD] By: NONUNION |
| I will not allow our fire dept. to take over the ambulace service.This is outrageous. growing government at a time when the best option is to reduce it. My gosh, I will do whatever I can to influece all councilors not to evfer vote for this decision. reduce the firemen and open the librarys and parks. I have lost all my respect for our firemen,forever |
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82272 - Wed Nov 25 20:51:13 2009 - [DFD unbiased? LMAO] By: Rich T. |
Pro-DFD, I had to laugh out loud as I read your last post. Almost every line ended with a contradiction of the subject. Being unbiased means asking what's best - not having one view and presenting it, trying to persuade others. Taking on more work doesn't mean taking over others' jobs - it simply means doing more. And how in the world does taking on a higher work load with more training, more personnel, and more equipment in a field where they have no current status quo SAVE anyone money?
If the fire department wanted to do more they could, if they wanted to save money they could. It doesn't take a college-grad to spot the inefficiencies in the current system.
I'm pro-DFD and I'm not Pro-DFD. Try that for irony. |
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82271 - Wed Nov 25 19:57:43 2009 - [DFD DFL09 Hypocrite] By: jthyme |
dfl09 said:
you can sit behind your meaningless keyboards afraid to use your real names
Okay, dfl09, what is YOUR real name? Or are you afraid to post it? |
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82270 - Wed Nov 25 19:30:06 2009 - [Slacker job ] By: robert m. |
| Our firemen need more to do. I watch them all day long on 27th av w and they should do more. they have a slacker job and they are fightin for their rite to keep it. Lets kick all the bums out and start over with them. |
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82269 - Wed Nov 25 19:26:44 2009 - [Sparks has no ambition to train ] By: Pro-DFD |
| For the record Jay Sparks has no ambition to train any of us as paramedics if we're allowed. Jay will not bring any of his bias into the committee but will attempt to educate other members on how we can successfully take over Gold Cross AND make the city some money. For those of you who keep calling us the most expensive department in the state, we now are asking for more work in order to save and make the city money. Jay Sparks would have been our Chief had Strongitharm not "sucked up" to Bergson. |
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82268 - Wed Nov 25 19:20:39 2009 - [Happy Thanksgiving except for...] By: 60's Warrior |
Happy Thanksgiving to all. To the men and women who have served and continue to serve and make a promise to defend the United States from all enemies foreign and domestic, I say thank you. God bless your families to.
"Labor World "Larry, this statement is NOT for you as you chose to run from your call to duty during the Vietnam War. As far as I'm concerned you should have stayed in Candada. I used to have respect for you but not anymore. Your a draft dodger and the majority of Americans have zero or little respect for anyone who betrays their country. |
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82267 - Wed Nov 25 19:15:31 2009 - [Firefighters do little fire fighting] By: Dodge St |
| From just up from the secretary's house. Mr. Thesaurus, I hate to break the news but over 92% of all Duluth fire department calls for service are medical. Can you blame them for trying to save their jobs. I'm told the firefighters hold doors open very well, bring medical cots from the ambulance to the patient and even give the paramedics the patients name on a piece of paper. hummm.. The DFD is scrambling to keep their excessive fleecing of the taxpayers in full swing. |
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82266 - Wed Nov 25 18:57:48 2009 - [Sparks has to resign from taskforce] By: Cynic |
| They did mention Sparks conflict of interest on Ch10 news. This guy has to go or someone from Gold Cross has to be put on the task force. Don't forget to write you councilperson and demand action be taken on this matter. |
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82265 - Wed Nov 25 18:54:29 2009 - [Go volunteer if it cost taxpayers more?] By: Cynic |
| Rusty, OK then how about DFD employees buy and maintain the ambulance service. Also any wages, benefits, and retirement pay will come out of the money they make providing ambulance service. No money made then no pay, benefits and retirement. Fair enough? |
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82264 - Wed Nov 25 17:12:15 2009 - [Tax you more,make money for DFD sleepers] By: Rusty Trombone r |
| The ambulance service in duluth must be profitable or GCAS would have left along time ago..Don't you want the city to make money??? |
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82263 - Wed Nov 25 16:06:55 2009 - [Stuffing the bird] By: Dennis Miller |
| Where's Stahlalinski on the Sparks character, stuffing Barney Frank Jr's bird? |
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82262 - Wed Nov 25 15:29:59 2009 - [Sparks should excuse himself from group] By: Inside Look |
| Jay Sparks taught a paramedic class about 20 years ago in cooperation with the fire school and used the Virginia ambulance ALS license to teach the class. Teaching a paramedic class can be quite profitable for someone if they do it right. In my estimation, Jay Sparks could benefit by making tens of thousands of dollars by teaching the paramedic class to DFD. The fact that he was appointed to this committee is outrageous. He should excuse himself from the group with this conflict of interest....Although this type of behavior is truly in the spirit of DFL Duluth. |
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82261 - Wed Nov 25 15:18:25 2009 - [The question isn't up for debate] By: Rich T. |
Still not sure why the whole DFD Ambulance service is still a question - it's not up for debate. For one reason and one reason alone this will fail: it's against state law. Yup, can't do it; no way no how.
Even if the task force recommends it, it gets through the council, and the mayor agrees, the Duluth delegation in St. Paul is heavily against it. They would have to amend state law, pass the house, the state senate and the governor's desk before it would come to fruition.
Sorry Mr. Sparks, sorry to all those who are Pro-DFD Ambulance - ain't gonna happen. So, please let us save our money or we'll start asking louder questions about the fire department. |
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82260 - Wed Nov 25 11:01:38 2009 - [NOT] By: Common Sns |
"Pro-DFD. I love your comment "His finances are private". They are private, until he gets sued for not paying somebody. Then it's as public as they get, with the court records open for public viewing."
May I add, that I feel a private citizen should NOT be talked about on some blog site. I know I wouldn't like it.
HOWEVER, If you are on the public payroll, are running for public office OR are on a Commission that will be spending taxpayers money, your backround & possible conflict of interests or how you've handled money, is fair game!! |
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82259 - Wed Nov 25 11:00:20 2009 - [Should not be] By: Cynic |
If what Pro-DFD said below is true then Jay Sparks should not be on the task force but rather give information to a task force along with information given by Gold Cross.
Pro-DFD said: "Jay Sparks has been trying to get us to become the ambulance provider for the city for many years. He has the knowledge and research in hand which will show how it can be done." |
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82258 - Wed Nov 25 10:55:07 2009 - [Professional] By: DFL09 |
| Stan you don't know jacksh$t about private and public matter! This is a private matter you numbskulls. You people leave the firefighting and ambulance services up to the professionals and you can sit behind your meaningless keyboards afraid to use your real names. We put it on the line every day, even for you losers. |
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82257 - Wed Nov 25 09:18:00 2009 - [It's as public as it gets] By: Stan |
Pro-DFD. I love your comment "His finances are private". They are private, until he gets sued for not paying somebody. Then it's as public as they get, with the court records open for public viewing.
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82256 - Wed Nov 25 09:15:46 2009 - [The best defense is a good offense] By: Thesaurus |
Wondering,
The DFD is not overtly trying to take over the Gold Cross jobs because Gold Cross is union, represented by UFCW 1116. If they were to be overtly trying, that would violate the unspoken word of one union, the IAFF, taking over another union's jobs, UFCW 1116. They are, though, covertly doing everything they can to take over those jobs through Jay Sparks, Cuneo and Anderson. They've been wanting these jobs for years, and years. Then Councilor Ken Hoag made a similar overture in the early 90s. The reason why they want these jobs is that 75% of DFD calls are medical. They don't go on that many fire runs. What's the saying? The best defense is a good offense? |
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82255 - Wed Nov 25 09:08:26 2009 - [Hold on tight to your pants] By: Cynic |
Ya gotta cry when you hear a Pro-DFD mouthpiece saying they will provide something cheaper than the private sector. Sure after the taxpayers subsidize them for 10's of millions of dollars. It's like if someone else built me a hotel and paid all my staff and then I show how I'm making a profit that the other hotels can't seem to match.
I agree Jay Sparks has something in his hand but it is not objective research. Hold on tight to your pants and don't let them fall or you will quickly find out what Jay Sparks really has in his hand. |
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82254 - Wed Nov 25 08:11:55 2009 - [Jay Sparks, one of the DFD boys] By: Pro-DFD |
The city council agrees on a committee to study who can best provide ambulance service to the city of Duluth, now you wingnuts are all over one of them about his finances. His finances are private and should not be part of this conversation.
Jay Sparks has been trying to get us to become the ambulance provider for the city for many years. He has the knowledge and research in hand which will show how it can be done. Jay has been a great Fire Union advocate for many years and as our president he fought for rights of firefighters in many areas. Some of us say he was the best union president we will ever see in our careers. Our current president has been a disaster and many of us will admit that.
As this committe unfolds and the questions are answered I can assure you with Jay Sparks vision and strategy we will be providing ALS ambulance service within the city. We will provide it cheaper, faster, more reliable and more professional.
Stick to the issue at hand you wingnuts, no personal attacks |
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82251 - Wed Nov 25 06:40:13 2009 - [Duluth wants "Just the facts Mam"] By: Dan S |
I see the newspaper has more sarcasm in the our view section and after reading it I thought...
The City Council should create a Task force to create a real newspaper in Duluth that reports the news and leaves out the Gossip. No wonder why the paper is so small and all employees are sitting on the edge of their seats thinking they will lose their jobs. And that is why they write such crap.. they really think that people give a crap of what they think.. WoW they have no clue.. Paper sales are down to an all time low and they cannot figure it out sheesh!
Get a clue News Tribune/Herald, Duluth doesn't want Tabloid reporting.. Duluth wants...Like on Dragnet "Just the facts Mam" |
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82249 - Tue Nov 24 23:06:45 2009 - [Grab a seat] By: Dennis Miller |
Dover,
Are you seriously telling Barney Frank Jr. to "grab a seat"? |
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82248 - Tue Nov 24 22:58:42 2009 - [DFL Zeros need more zeros] By: |
| Hey Dennis put another three zeros on it and it looks like a conservative value of the unfunded retire health care mess. $209,744,000.00 or more. |
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82247 - Tue Nov 24 22:57:34 2009 - ["The Greatest Show on Earth"] By: Ben Dover |
It appears that Jay Sparks was valedictorian of one of Donny Boy Ness's classes in DFL Duluth handling of money. LMAO. Actually, he is a perfect fit to participate in "The Greatest Show on Earth", formerly known as the City of Duluth. I have never seen more incompetent rubes in charge of anything than right here in DFL Duluth. And to even consider that Sparks would be a fair and good choice for the task force is beyond belief. Nice try Jeff Anderson. Sparks was part of the very parasites that are trying to take over the ambulance business in order to give themselves something to do other than their usual activities of political activism and sleeping.
Duluth has become nothing but the "Blind leading the Blind" with this clown of a mayor and these other circus performers that we keep seeing like Sparks. Sad but true.
Grab a seat and enjoy the show! It doesn't get any better than this! |
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82246 - Tue Nov 24 22:51:16 2009 - [More DFD shameless politics] By: Dennis Miller |
Here's the skinny on this the way I see it.
Poll dancers - $400/night
Broken leg - It was the taxpayers money, who cares?
$209,744 total of all 3 judgements
$207,303 still owed
More DFD shameless politics - PRICELESS
Looks to me like someone is not paying the court ordered judgements. There's more to this story. |
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82245 - Tue Nov 24 22:41:15 2009 - [DFL Dysfunctional City of the North] By: Joel Syphilis |
Doesn't anyone do a background check on people who can influence 50 or more jobs and millions of taxpayer dollars?
Then you have criminal charged with attempted murder breaking into homes who should be in jail but must be DFL connected.
Oh that's right, this is DFL Duluth where your CEO or Mayor worked part-time at a gas station and had his car repossessed.
Better change the tune Christmas City of the North to DFL Dysfunctional City of the North.
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82244 - Tue Nov 24 22:26:54 2009 - [DFL Pride = Jay Leno Material] By: Muffin Top |
| No wonder the DFD is the most expensive fire department in the state. These jokers can't manage their own financial affairs let alone the public's money. This is DFL Duluth and their pride shows as being the laughing stock of the nation. Here's another one for Jay Leno. |
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82243 - Tue Nov 24 22:17:36 2009 - [Sparks flying at banks] By: Stan |
| Another thing, Karen. Did Mr. Sparks get divorced from Balboa or the bank, too? |
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82242 - Tue Nov 24 22:15:51 2009 - [Little financial sense] By: Stan |
Karen M,
There are gobs of people that go through divorces and don't have $200,000 of judgements against you. I know, I'm one of them. Remember, it takes a lawsuit to gain a judgement. And judgements that big take a court case, in front of a judge. If this new member of a city task force, looking at a large issue for Duluth, could pay his bills. Maybe he wouldn't have had these judgements. I've got half a notion to go to the court house to take a look at the files, and see what the real story is. Good thing the city council felt so strongly to have this conflicted task force member on the task force. Now, it's apparent, that he has little financial sense, too. |
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082241 - Tue Nov 24 21:25:22 2009 - [DFL 101. Blame it on someone else] By: Karen M |
DFL Crimewatch,
Mr. Sparks got a Divorce and your point is what?? |
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