Wednesday, November 30, 2005

Decades v. DNR

Contributed by: Jim B. So I posted a story on this long ago, but what a bizarre twist this has taken! Decades has now listed this property for substantially more than they bought it for after they razed the building? Is this a posturing move to get some backing from political types? Or are they done and trying to cut bait? What a shame this has come to this point with one of the most prestigious pieces of land in Oshkosh.

Is it true that all Decades has to do is agree to a walking path and it is a done deal? Sounds much more complicated than that.

Still in disbelief!!!

Jim B.

Saturday, November 19, 2005

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat

Contributed by: Anonymous
Did anyone else see the posting that Tony Palmeri did on another web site? This should cause some talk around town. It will be interesting to hear what people coming to this web site have to say. Even more interesting will be a show down between Melanie Bloechl and Gordon Hintz. (here it is...)
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Former Oshkosh Mayor Melanie Bloechl told me today that she is considering a run for 54th District State Assembly seat currently held by Representative Gregg Underheim. In 2000, Bloechl lost to Underheim in the Republican primary. In that campaign she warned that the legislature was getting ready to eliminate the state's shared revenue program, a charge that so upset the Republican party leadership that they had then governor Thompson's press secretary Tony Jewell intervene in the primary to accuse Bloechl of "fearmongering." Bloechl's warning turned out to be accurate: the shared revenue program is still in place, but Republican governor Scott McCallum did try to eliminate it in 2001-2002 while the administration of Democrat Jim Doyle and the Republican legislature have failed to reform the program in any meaningful way.

Bloechl says that if she runs in 2006 it will be as a Democrat, setting up a primary between her and Gordon Hintz. A Bloechl/Hintz primary could be a classic contest pitting Hintz's policy wonkish, chamber of commerce friendly style against Bloechl's shoot from the hip, "mad as hell and not gonna take it any more" approach. No doubt Democratic Party leaders would get behind Hintz, but what about Democrats at the grassroots level? Blue collar union workers and seniors who lean Democratic might find a Bloechl candidacy appealing.

Melanie Bloechl served five terms on the Oshkosh Common Council, including two years as Mayor. She did not say when she would make a final decision on whether to run for the Assembly. --Tony Palmeri

The following comments are owned by whomever posted them. This site is not responsible for what they say.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Saturday, November 19 2005 @ 09:37 PM MST
Let's see, years ago she declared herself a Republican. She's also said that she's more of an Independent than anything else. Now she's thinking of running as a Dem. Could it be Bloechl just hasn't decided what she wants to be when she grows up? Does she really know what she is or is this really more about political strategy than what platforms she subscribes to? She also has told people she was done with politics. Now here she is thinking about getting back in it? Interesting isn't even the word for it.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 01:01 AM MST
Can you say "opportunistic"? That's what this is. Maybe she can't find work anywhere else since her medical business went under.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 02:06 AM MST
Before we cut her down. Lets first hear it from her that she will be running. It would be a interesting race. A Democratic primary and maybe a Republican primary with Frank Tower and former county board supervisor Julie Leschke.And we thought the Green/Walker and Falk/Lautenschlager races would be interesting for the September primary.I encourage you to encourage the four prespective candidates to run. Greg Unserheim needs to replaced.
---Nate Josephson

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: dose of reality on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 06:46 AM MST
Let’s not kid anyone. We all know that in order to win, (unfortunately) you have to pick a Republican or Democrat ticket because of our broken election system. Melanie wanted to defeat Gregg as soon as possible, so she picked the Republican ticket. She also used to be in the Republican Party (which she wised up and is no longer a part of) so running as a Republican was a no-brainer when she ran against Gregg.Someone wanted to know “who she is.” Well, I’ll tell you she’s someone that cares about the City of Oshkosh, and will fight for what is right (unlike Gordon Hintz, Gregg Underheim or Julie Leshky.) She’ll actually have the balls to tell special interest groups to shove it, and vote for her constituents. She told the special interest groups in the City of Oshkosh to shove it when she was on the City Council.Do you really want Leshky, or Hintz, a couple of robot Republican/Democrat people listening to special interest groups representing us? Melanie is the type of person that we need representing the 54th.You’ll have my vote Melanie, GOOD LUCK and welcome back!

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 11:23 AM MST
Her plan to defeat Underheim didn't work so well did it? It's doubtful this one will either. People can see through this kind of strategy and even if the system is broken as "dose" says it is, one has to be true to themselves and the people. Switching teams just for strategic reasons is disingenuous, something that goes completely against what Mrs. Bloechl always harped about when she was in politics before.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 11:59 AM MST
Come on, do you actually think Bloechl would tip off the media about a possible race if she wasn't planning on entering it? Doubtful! Tony Palmeri has always given us the impression that he is ethical and respects people's wishes. It makes sense that if Bloechl had told him this information off the record he would not have said anything. Nope, she wanted to plant the seed knowing that other media would pick it up and people would start talking. She probably is also hoping Gordon Hintz will be scared away from running. That's doubtful too. She's as good as in this race.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Tuesday, November 22 2005 @ 11:23 AM MST
Not much activity about Bloeckel running. Maybe nobody cares if she runs or not.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 09:08 AM MST
Cheap shot at Bloechl since Hinz has never held a job that was not provided by his father.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 11:50 AM MST
He certainly held jobs when he lived in California. Do you actually believe his father has that kind of power and influence to get his son jobs out there? No way. He did it on his own through hard work and intelligence. Gordon knows what he's talking about.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 12:43 PM MST
That is good to know. If the jobs weren't as government managers, then his dad's business, which places government managers, did not benefit him. Where is he employed today, as he waits in the wings?

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 07:21 PM MST
He joined Palmeri and Burk Tower teaching part-time at UWO in addition to consulting.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Monday, November 21 2005 @ 12:36 AM MST
Teaching what and consulting at what? 7 to 3 at where?

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Monday, November 21 2005 @ 09:51 AM MST
What difference does it make? He's working and that's the what is important. Even if his dad got him a job or helped him get his foot in the door, so what. A lot of parents help their kids.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 04:55 PM MST
We have to wonder why Bloechl would even contemplate getting back in politics. Especially when she said she was all done after she left 3 or 4 years ago. Now she's wanting back in? She also was overheard making comments about Gordon Hintz last year that the only reason he moved here was to get a job in Madison. But she also now seems to be running because she does not have a job in the private sector. That is about as hypocritical as you can get. At least Hintz can now say he has spent the last year or 2 working.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 06:13 PM MST
where?

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 06:39 PM MST
Why don't we all just wait until Bloechl actually announces, and then begin a constructive dialogue about all of the candidates? Why be all speculative, start getting nasty and stuff before we even have any certainties? This is silly. 2006 is going to be nasty enough.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 07:22 PM MST
Bloechl has as much as announced by saying something to a media person and allowing them to pronounce that she's thinking about it. A blind man could see through her move. By putting a drop of blood into the water like she did she knew the local political machine would go into a feeding frenzy. This is exactly what she hoped for. Another way of testing the waters perhaps?

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 07:42 PM MST
Yeah she's running. Especially since on the Palmeri sight it's listed as an exclusive. She is fooling no one.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 07:45 PM MST
How can something be exclusive when it's listed on three websites??

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 08:36 PM MST
Word travels. Just as she figured it would. She's no dummy.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, November 20 2005 @ 10:16 PM MST
But, it's posted by the same person on all 3 - that's exclusive.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Monday, November 21 2005 @ 03:11 PM MST
We also have to wonder just how much good Melanie Bloechl could do in Madison were she to be elected. She has a history of nitpicking about some issues and fighting with people. She has also been on the losing side of votes time and time again. Can someone like this really help us in Madison or will she only cause more friction? We need someone who is willing to work with people to bridge differences and sole probems through teamwork, not cause a further divide. That is not who Melanie Bloechl has been in the past and we all know that history usually repeats itself.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Monday, November 21 2005 @ 05:04 PM MST
Yes, by all means, we should send someone to Madison that will kiss the butt of every special interest group that is willing to give money to their campaigns. Hello Mr. Hintz, and Ms. Leshke. We all know Mr. Underheim has been doing it for years!Get real, Melanie would be perfect for this job.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Monday, November 21 2005 @ 05:12 PM MST
No one ever said whoever goes to Madison needs to kiss someone's rear end. If you can't see the difference between being a team player and kissing someone's backside then you have a problem even Melanie Bloechl couldn't help you with. People who are effective do not have to kiss butt to get things done. But you don't get things done by ruffling everyone's feathers either.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: L Schaffer on Monday, November 21 2005 @ 07:29 PM MST
Maybe it is about time someone goes to Madison and starts to ruffle feathers and not go with the status quo, as of right now nothing is getting done in Madison. We the taxpayers are being asked more and more to foot the bills of our city, county, and schools while our elected officials in Madison do nothing to help the taxpayers out. All they are concerned about is the special interest groups and there jobs when election time comes around. Other than that they don't care about you.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Monday, November 21 2005 @ 08:34 PM MST
But what can get done by having one or two rogue assemblymen? If they can't work well with others they will accomplish nothing and the status quo, as you call it, will continue to call the shots.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: L Schaffer on Monday, November 21 2005 @ 10:34 PM MST
Maybe one or two roque assemblemen start to make waves and start to embarass the other assemblemen and these roque people start telling the taxpayers what is going on in Madison, maybe just maybe the taxpayers will finally get fed up and start throwing out the elected people that have been in office to long. I for one am getting quite mad and will start using my vote to help vote them out of office. But please remember it only takes one person, one voice to start making change.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Monday, November 21 2005 @ 11:07 PM MST
I agree that we have every reason to be fed up. But if all it takes is one person to start making a change why did Tony Palmeri not get elected? Why have others who have run on the major party tickets not gotten elected? Why does Mrs. Bloechl think that running as a Democrat can help her? If she does not support the Dem platforms (she has said many times in the past that she does not) then it appears all she is doing now is playing the same kind of game that we have grown tired of. That of politicians playing games with our money and our lives. She would have more believability if she lived by her words. But if she really has now changed to believe the way Dems believe why did she not explain her reasoning to Tony Palmeri when she "leaked" her story to him? But she did not and that was her first mistake. It makes her look just like others have said. Like an opportunist, and it is hard to find someone like that sincere later on.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Monday, December 05 2005 @ 12:04 AM MST
Yup she said she was finished with it. Now she acts like she's going to be our knight in shining armor to save us from the others in Madison. Give us a break. She can't help us if she can't work with anyone. She can't even help herself down there, just ike she couldn't here. In order to accomplish things you have to work as a team and be able to find some middle ground so you can reach a concensus. Mrs. Bloechl didn't know how to do that in her 12 years on the city council and it's doubtful she knows how to do that now. Let her play in her own sandbox while the others build sandcastles as a team.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, December 04 2005 @ 04:43 PM MST
Melanie Bloechl is not fit to represent us in Madison. She does not possess anything close to having a sense of fair play; she does not understand the concept of teamwork, nor is she willing to try learning it; like her 'shoot from the hip' attitude, she often shoots off her mouth and jumps to conclusions before she has all the facts; as we've heard for some time she seeks revenge if she does not like someone and she possesses a mean, hate-filled spirit and holds grudges toward many people if they have pissed her off; she is a hypocrite, which is the same as being a liar. Look how she opposed the Walmart development by her home and who complains about the noise she says constantly comes over their speaker system, but guess who shops there on a regular basis!! Melanie will try to tell you she is different from the rest. She can be if and when she wants to be. But we need someone who is different and does good with those special traits all the time, not just when it suits her to do so.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: admin on Monday, November 21 2005 @ 11:00 AM MST
I can see that this race has the potential for some really nasty comments to be made and Oshkosh's worst to crawl out of the political woodwork. This posting is intended to put people on notice that while spirited debate and people's past political ventures, their professional lives (within reason), etc., are fair game for discussion, name-calling and that which is nothing more than downright ugliness will not be tolerated - from either side of the fence. The first really uncalled for jab came in this morning. It called Gordon Hintz, Jef Hall and Mark Madison names that were completely uncalled for and totally inappropriate. That comment was deleted immediately, in its entirety, as will continue to be the case. I do not always see such comments, especially right away. So if someone takes issue with something or finds something inappropriate or horribly offensive, please let me know and I will take a look at it. I would like to believe the people in this community can keep it clean and fair, no matter how strongly they feel about a particular candidate or issue.
- Cheryl Hentz

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: L Schaffer on Monday, November 21 2005 @ 01:22 PM MST
I hope Melanie Bloechl runs and if she does, she has my vote, Gregg Underheim needs to be replace, he is totally out of touch with what is going on in Wis.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: admin on Monday, November 21 2005 @ 01:44 PM MST
I agree that Underheim is out of touch with his constituents. He complains that he feels the people have turned their backs on him, but it is he who has turned his back on us. Sen. Roessler is not much better. All one has to do is look at the things they have done lately. Then look at their "performance" at the city council meeting last month. It was disgusting and completely unbecoming for elected officials to be so smug, so cavalier and so snobbish. If they were not going to provide honest answers and participate in a meaningful dialogue with the city council (after all, they are supposed to be on the same team as the council), they may as well have stayed home.

In any event, I don't think we have to worry about trying to oust Underheim. The scuttlebutt around town is that is is not running. Probably a smart decision after the last time when he just got elected and turned right around to run for the head post at the state Department of Public Instruction. He sent a strong message that he really did not want the Assembly position very much.

- Cheryl

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Friday, November 25 2005 @ 08:23 AM MST
See. No body really cares much what Melanie Bloechl does these days. Some may want her back but most people just don't care. She is a "has been". Just like any politician who steps away from the public for a while. She can't get along with people anyway so like someone else said before, how can she help us? Do yourself and us a favor Melanie. Stay home, relax, and bake some holiday cookies. You are not the ingredient we need in the capitol.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Wednesday, November 30 2005 @ 11:20 AM MST
Well, isn't that a sexist remark. Bake some holiday cookies? Afraid a woman might do better than a big, strong man? I would feel more comfortable voting for someone who changed sides because they wised up and realized the side they were on was not the one they believed in than a sheep following the political flock just because. No political party holds up to scrutiny, so vote for the person and their convictions, not a party with lobbiests at heart.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Wednesday, November 30 2005 @ 12:28 PM MST
Sexist? There's nothing sexist about it. Maybe you’re just too close to this and are taking it so personally that you can’t appreciate the play on words and wit the original poster used. If anything I think your OWN comment could be found offensive by the thousands of male chefs, soup chefs and pastry chefs throughout the world and the well known male cooks who grace our television sets with their cooking shows. Not to mention by all the men who enjoy spending time in the kitchen whether by themselves or helping their wives or girlfriends or moms.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Thursday, December 01 2005 @ 12:22 PM MST
Are you for really? This is akin to saying gays should STAY in the proverbal closet. Melanie you may have come a long way. But obviously Oshkosh has alot further to travel before its ready for any real debate. Don't waste your time on people like this.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Thursday, December 01 2005 @ 12:54 PM MST
You're comparing a remark about baking holiday cookies to gays staying in the closet???? This is the mark of a real novice and someone who obviously doesn't understand what an analogy is. Let's examine the flaws in your comparison and see if we can't help you out. 1. Baking holiday cookies happens but once a year; gays have the same sexual orientation 24/7/365. 2. Anyone can bake and many do; but not everyone can be gay, just as not everyone can be straight. Your effort is admirable but, alas, do not pass GO; do not collect $200. Oh, and by the way, its PROVERBIAL and yes I am for REALLY! I'm also for REAL, unlike so many past, present, or even, future politicians.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Thursday, December 01 2005 @ 01:06 PM MST
Seems as if this last comment may have struck a cord? Unless you have been elected, the comment about past or present politicians seems some what lost. The original point having been lost on you, not withstanding. You too, seem somewhat thin skinned, not so easy when hitting too close to home? Or am I wrong about that?

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Thursday, December 01 2005 @ 02:07 PM MST
If the fact that the people of this city, this state and this nation are fed up with so many politicians lying to them every time they turn around, then yup, you absolutely struck a chord - with me and probably with millions of taxpayers everywhere if they were reading this. Nothing about your original comment was lost on this end and your most recent comment about being thin-skinned makes no sense because I made no reference to anyone being thin-skinned. Obviously you're confused. All my post did was point out flaws in a poorly worded, poorly executed analogy through some simple examples. Nothing hit close to home on this end either. So the answer to your question is "no." But thanks for asking. Your concern is touching.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Thursday, December 01 2005 @ 02:22 PM MST
Denial, what a luxury you have. You can deny your gay, or upset by the comparison, however women like Melanie, not only can't deny being a women but most assuredly should not have to defend themselves becuse of it. The comment is and was intended to be sexist, and degrading. For you to find the ability to defend it, unless of course you actually wrote it, as though it was anything less is sad. I believe it is more a statement about you, and how you view, devalue and undermine women.Why should anyone feel it is funny, or acceptable in 2005 to tell a women to stay home and in the kitchen(regardless of the time of year) as though that is the only place she is useful or wanted or productive. Spin away, I am sure someone such as yourself has been spending years justifing this type of behavior and comments.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Thursday, December 01 2005 @ 02:33 PM MST
Wow! Major assumptions being made here by this last poster. There were no denials of anyone being gay and no accusations were made of such. And since none of us except the original poster knows what was intended by their baking cookies remark, you are again making assumptions. Moreover, there was no defending the original cookie baking comment, just an observation that it didn't rise to the level of being sexist in my mind. Lastly, you have somehow read into this that the original comment suggested the only place Melanie Bloechl is useful, wanted or productive is in the kitchen. Assumptions abound. Yikes, what an active imagination. But you know what they say about those who make assumptions.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Thursday, December 01 2005 @ 06:14 PM MST
Bravo, you have not disappointed. Being a professional at spin, you would expect you to be associated with the media? When cornered you find a way to take the conversation and twist and turn it to suit your purpose. As far as assumptions, I asked if the comments made about gays bothered you, then I asked if you were indeed gay. Answer NO. okay. I then stated that I found the baking cookie statement to be sexist and offensive, you somehow do not. okay. Let me ask you, in reading the posters entire comment, did you find anything positive, kind or even remotely constructive? Or was it not I have nothing nice or constructive to say about a women and her name is Melanie.Thus the presumption of the posters intent to be sexist and degrading. I would have hoped that the community had better people, more enlightened people. As for this site, I can only say shame on you Cheryl for allowing this unconstructive female bashing to continue. Maybe the next poster might suggest that you should give up your site, your T.V. show, and any run again for future office, as you aren't the darling of the choosen either. But hey, don't let that slow you down keep moving backdown and downward, that is the stuff that makes people like you tick.

Bloechl - missing in action
Authored by: Anonymous on Thursday, December 01 2005 @ 07:12 PM MST
I think anyone who looks at these posts can see exactly who twisted and turned things to fit their purpose, as people like you so often do. Therefore, one might expect you to be associated with politics. I'm glad you're not disappointed. Wish I could say the same. Did I feel cornered by your remarks? Absolutely not. Do I feel you have an obsession with someone's sexual orientation or the gay lifestyle as a whole? Your relentless comments answer that question themselves. Remember, the individual who made the holiday cookies comment only referenced one person - a person they don't want representing them in Madison. You, on the other hand, tried to insult an entire segment of the population with your remarks. But gay people are used to people like you following years of oppression, hatred and prejudice. Comments like yours mean nothing in the grand scheme of things to gays and probably few others, as well.

As to your other comment: I read the original poster's entire remark and while there may have been nothing positive, kind or remotely constructive contained in it, your comments stoop to a much lower level and you lack cleverness. Does the poster not like Melanie Bloechl? Seems not, but hey, the woman is thinking of running for political office. She's going to undoubtedly get that kind of attitude and worse if she enters this race. After 12 years on the city council and a previous race for the assembly she knows people either hate her or love her. That's politics. But to arrive at the conclusion that the poster was sexist in his or her comments has made you look both silly and overly sensitive. Sounds to me like they just don't think Melanie Bloechl is the best candidate for this position.

As for Cheryl and what she should do, maybe she should just pull this whole thread off here and refuse to publish anything about Melanie Bloechl in the future. (Pay no attention to that candidate behind the curtain!!) Maybe she should even refuse to put Mrs. Bloechl on her show, should she run. Or maybe she should contact the host of this site and get your IP address which would quickly reveal your true identity. But, pull a successful, informative, and award-winning show off the air because people like you take out your frustrations and anger or your dislike for gays, or even her, on a site like this? Heavens no. Your behavior and that of others like you should only strengthen her resolve to continue her work. There is obviously much more to be done to enlighten people in the community.In the meantime, shame on Melanie Bloechl, too, for not sticking up for herself and for allowing a segment of the population, and now her friend, to get bashed by the likes of you. As I recall, Ms. Hentz always jumped to Melanie's defense - publicly, on her show and on this and other web sites - during and after her years in office. That says a lot about true friendship. Mrs. Bloechl's absence, on the other hand, says a lot also. This will end my communication with you. If you want to keep babbling, feel free. Maybe Cheryl can just delete whatever other drivel you post from this point on. It has probably lost the interest of people anyway.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Thursday, December 01 2005 @ 02:00 PM MST
Let's put this in a way only small minded biogots can get. the quote was;" Do us all and yourself a favor, stay home, relax and bake some holiday cookies" Lets put it out there with it addressing another minority. Hey Gays, do us and yourself a favor and stay home, relax and bake some holiday cookies, your not the ingredient that we want in our city, county or state. Feel better? See the humor? Me neither! Hipocrates abound! Feel free to correct spelling errors it will give something constructive to do with those hands that enjoy the composition of hate.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Thursday, December 01 2005 @ 02:22 PM MST
Again, your attempts at comparisons miss the mark. Therefore they have no impact.I have an observation for you though: you advised Melanie not to waste her time like this. But yet you continue. Do as I say, not as I do, huh?

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Friday, December 02 2005 @ 02:13 AM MST
I really don't understand what all this is about and I almost hate to say anything but I must add my two cents worth. Working in health care I occasionally deal with AIDS patients and, yes, many are homosexual. But whether you like homosexuals or hate them, I find it in especially poor taste that you would have picked World AIDS Day to display your obvious ignorance and narrow-minded bigotry. Of course, given the things you said you were probably ignorant to what day it was in the first place. Now you know.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Saturday, December 03 2005 @ 09:06 AM MST
And the spin goes on. There were comparisons made between the negitive comments about a woman and how those same type of comments would be perceived if the idea that gays should stay home and bake cookies as they were not the ingredent thaat we want in our community. Interesting how women still take a back seat, people can still find a way to minimize and make jokes (in poor taste I might add) about their accomplishments and value in our society. Were you all hatched, or do you actually have a mother, sister, wife? Some seem very concerned about gay rights at the exclusion of women's right, and respect paid to them. My question is why? As far as this thing being blown out of proportion, Why would anyone accept the sacfrice of one women as okay in the name of hate or politics? Which of you or which of your pet minorities might be next? Will it be okay with you? God Help Us All, who dare to be different .

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Saturday, December 03 2005 @ 10:29 AM MST
What in goodness name are you talkng about? How you have taken one reference and amplified it 1000x to the power so that you now have dragged gay rights and womens rights into this discussion is baffling to me. Maybe that's the difficulty some other people are having with the comparison too.The comment that seems to have some of you upset said nothing whatsoever about women not being able to participate in government, or even the electoral process for that matter. It referenced one woman only and that was Mrs. Bloechl. I personally like Mrs. Bloechl and was a supporter of her politics. But if she didn't like someone, she never hid it and never shied away from making comments about that person when given the opportunity. So for someone in a public forum such as this to express their dislike for Mrs. Bloechl or her politics is fair game. Is it not part of the political process for voters to say they don't care for a person running for office? To make these exaggerated comparisons or to suggest that one comment directed at one elected official who happens to be a female is actually a personal affront to the entire population of women is absurd.On a personal note to Mrs. Bloechl should she see this or hear about it, I am glad you're thinking of running and wish you luck. I will be pleased to check your name on the ballot.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Wednesday, December 07 2005 @ 12:55 AM MST
Anyone notice how this sounds a lot like Melanie Bloechl?

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Friday, December 02 2005 @ 02:35 PM MST
It seems to me that this has been blown way out of proportion and people are reading more into something than what was probably intended...Had the first commentator said that women have no place in politics or that all women belong in the kitchen, one could surmise they were sexist...But those things weren't said, nor anything close to them...When I read the comment it struck me that they did not support Mrs. Bloechl for that office...I did not come away from reading it that they had a problem with any woman being in office...That's an important distinction that can not be overlooked if any reasoned discussion can be hoped for about a candidate's merits.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Sunday, December 04 2005 @ 12:29 AM MST
I think "blown out of proportion" is an accurate description for overreactions like we've seen. But has anyone else noticed that while some of Bloechel's supporters or maybe her herself have made far out comparisons between baking cookies and having problems with women or gays, none of them have bothered to answer the questions posed on this page for a serious discussion? Is it possible they don't have answers the public will buy? They better come up with them though or they'll get creamed in a debate. Gordon Hintz is a smooth talker and knows how to present himself. Can Melanie Bloechel handle that? Can she stand up under the pressure and intesne questioning about her shift in political persuasion? The other obvious question is can she even come close to raising the kind of money Gordon Hintz did in his last campaign. He raised 10 times more in his run against Gregg Underheim than Bloechel did when she ran against him. He is a money raising machine. That will be hard to compete with and Bloechel will probably be defeated because he can outspend her. Let's have some real discussion about what it means if Bloechel enters the race instead of what we've seen the last few days.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Wednesday, November 30 2005 @ 12:41 PM MST
You suggest in your remarks that Bloechl has “wised up.” Specifically what issues has she changed her position on to make people believe she is now an enlightened Democrat? You went on to say “no political party holds up to scrutiny, so vote for the person and their convictions, not a party with lobbiests at heart.” The Democratic Party certainly has “lobbyists at heart.” You obviously don’t even agree with your own comments because first you say she must have “wised up” and now knows which flock she belongs with; then you tell people they should vote for the person and their convictions rather than a party. We’re still trying to find out what this new Melanie Bloechl’s convictions really are. If one of her convictions is that people should vote for the person and not the party, (As she has said many times in the past. That’s why she endorsed Tony Palmeri’s Green Party candidacy last election, remember, because she felt he was the best man for the job regardless of the party affiliation), then she has a lot of explaining to do as to why she’s jumping ship once again. People should not be diluted into believing that this is about Melanie Bloechl having “wised up” at all. This is about Melanie Bloechl wanting to get elected and knowing that she will have a very uphill battle without being in major party. It’s about having ulterior motives. It’s about Melanie Bloechl. But you know what else it is? It's too late. By the by if we're going to worry about such political correctness then for you to suggest that a man is big and strong by virtue of his gender could also be construed as a sexist and stereotypical comment.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Wednesday, November 30 2005 @ 06:17 PM MST
Excellent comments. But with all of this going on have you noticed Mrs. Bloechl is no where to be found? Might she be busying herself trying to bone up on what the Democratic party platforms are so she can have answers ready when the media starts asking her questions? The person before me was right. This is too late for her to be coming back into the game. Her time has come and gone. It is now time for someone else to have their day in the sun. Go get 'em Gordon.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Wednesday, November 30 2005 @ 08:36 PM MST
Nice post Gordon!

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Wednesday, November 30 2005 @ 09:03 PM MST
Thank you Meanie.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Thursday, December 01 2005 @ 01:46 AM MST
I have to agree with the other comments. This comment isn't even a little bit sexist in my estimation. I suppose I can understand someone who is very thin-skinned maybe taking offense to it but anyone is politics had better not be thin-skinned. If they are they're in the wrong business. Maybe that's why we've not heard anything from Melanie Bloechl about this. She's a tough nut and isn't going to get worked up over something like this. Maybe during her time away from politics she has learned to choose her battles more wisely.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Thursday, December 01 2005 @ 11:55 AM MST
Doubtful. Melanie Bloechl enjoys fighting any battle she can. She has always been combative and the few times she's spoken at city council meetings since she's been gone or when she was on TV still, show she's still combative. I kind of like her but am just not sure how effective she can be when she doesn't know how to work well with people and has no understanding of what compromise is all about. You can't accomplish much being narrow minded and stubborn.

Bloechl May Run In 54th--As a Democrat
Authored by: Anonymous on Friday, December 02 2005 @ 10:15 PM MST
I have read the comment and nothing struck a nerve in me like it was a racist remark. Tell me, had the poster said to stay home, relax and enjoy an egg nog would you think they were suggesting Mrs. Bloechl is an alcoholic? Or what if they had said she should stay home, relax and settle in for a long winter's nap? Does that imply she's lazy or sleeps all the time? Of course not and at the same token I don't think anything serious was meant by the comment about baking holiday cookies. It's the holiday season so why doesn't everyone lighten up and share some good will with each other. That's what the season is supposed to be about after all. God bless.

Thursday, November 10, 2005

Bemis moves headquarters to WI

Contributed by: Jim B.
Bemis has announced it will move its HQ from Minneapolis to Neenah. Since they have most of their plants in Oshkosh, and none in Neenah(as far as I know), why wouldnt they move to Oshkosh? The story said it wouldnt affect a lot of people in Minneapolis. But wouldnt it have been a coup to say "Bemis headquarters in Oshkosh, WI" Did we court them to relocate in Oshkosh? Being such a large employer in Oshkosh, it just seems a little strange to put HQ in Neenah.

Jim B.

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Bemis moves headquarters to WI
Authored by: fmc6338 on Wednesday, December 14 2005 @ 11:40 AM MST
What does Oshkosh have to offer? Have you taken a look at our infrastructure lately? Besides, until we have a regional business plan, cities will continue to compete and prostitute themselves to the lowest bidder. Guess who looses. K Monte is lauding the new Lowes moving into town, with its 7 to 9 dollar an hour no insurance jobs. Our illustrious mayor wrote –and I paraphrase- Oshkosh is loosing its industrial base and the new industry will be tourism. Ok, jobs that will create no one can support a family. Don’t you people see what is happening?

---
War Is Peace
Freedom is Slavery
Ignorance is Strength


Bemis moves headquarters to WI
Authored by: Jim B. on Wednesday, December 14 2005 @ 01:30 PM MST
FMC,

What does Oshkosh have to offer Bemis as there headquarters? Well, how about the fact that the majority of there production facilities are in Oshkosh. Obviously, our infrastructure is adequate for that, then how come not headquarters?

Jim B.

A Fishing Pier for Children and Children with Disabilities that does not contain a railing...

Contributed by: shors
The DNR has approved the application for the newly proposed fishing pier that was communicated as a pier for children and children with disabilities. The DNR considers two points in their consideration of this application:
A. Does the pier interfere with the scenic beauty of the vista?
B. Will the pier harm the surrounding environment?

All other issues like safety etc. are not considered in this decision. To get around the scenic beauty issue, the pier construction plan was changed per the DNR's accepted specifications. The railings were omitted and a 4 inch bumper (edging) was added to a flat pier that would be lowered closer to the water. This flat pier does not obstruct the scenic beauty according to the DNR.

I am curious if the residents of Oshkosh are comfortable with this. Is this a safe pier for children and individual's with disabilities? Should railings be added?

If a child dies or is injured, the City, the Otter Street Fishing Club and C. R. Meyer (designer of the pier) could potentially be liable for this. Today, litigation is commonplace.

Originally the City Council approved a pier with railings. The railings have been omitted.

It seems to me that one life injured or lost is one too many. Menominee Park is the largest park in the city and should maintain the highest standards as it is likely the most utilized park. I think it is unconscionable to omit railings, but this is my opinion.

Shouldn't the City Manager, City Attorny and City Council be concerned about this?

Teri

Tuesday, November 01, 2005

Tax Time

Contributed by: got it
It is tax time in the City of Oshkosh. Where can we cut the fat? Are there things offered in the city that should be cut, or eliminated? How do you feel about the garbage pickup being done through user fees? What depts can survive cuts to decrease our tax bills? Where should the council make concessions when it comes time to cut department budgets?

Some topics that could be included: reduce snow plowing, turn off more street lights, reduce library hours, cut fire dept or police dept staffing, reduce street reconstruction, collect garbage less frequently, etc. Brainstorm! Throw ideas out there! It should be interesting to see where citizens think we can save money!

The following comments are owned by whomever posted them. This site is not responsible for what they say.

Tax Time
Authored by: DRR on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 07:53 AM MST
How about starting with health insurance? A city employees share of health insurance is 5%. The county will be up to 15% in the current contract. How about sick time payouts? Eliminate them. How about step increases? Eliminate them. Does this sound like the county? Funny how the Northwestern pounds on county employees but says nothing about the city employees compensation package.

Tax Time
Authored by: got it on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 08:20 AM MST
What are the sick time payouts for the city?

Also, when you say step increases, what do you mean? The thing I think of is a starting wage, with incremental increases to a maximum pay over a certain period of time. Is that what you mean?

So for instance, if the starting wage is 25,000 and the maximum wage is 40,000, the employee gets increases every year for 5 years till they get to 40,000. Is that what you mean? How do you eliminate it? What would you do with starting and maximum wages then?

Good start!

Tax Time
Authored by: DRR on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 09:57 AM MST
I do not have the exact sick time payout numbers off the top of my head. I can get them for you though. I do know it is more than we can afford. I believe the step program is how you explained it. I believe the county eliminated step increases for administrative employees next year. That also sends a message to the unions that they are next. The same goes for health insurance. We need to raise the employees contributions to at least 15% next contract. Start with the administrative people now. Send a message to the unions, you are next. 5% is an unrealistic #, and we can not afford it.

Tax Time
Authored by: got it on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 10:34 AM MST
One thing that you must take into account, tho, is that the current state law has a provision called "quid pro quo." What this means is, if you take something from the union (sick leave payout) or make them pay more towards something (health insurance) then you have to give something equal back to them-- more vacation days, etc. Not saying I agree with it, but it's the current state law, and the city will have to deal with it.

I am not sure I agree with the stopping the sick leave payout. Any governmental agency that bargained this into a contract did so to SAVE money. It falls back to the quid pro quo. If the city would forego a larger pay increase, they did increase the sick leave payout to the employee. How does this save money? The city pays only the day's wage, and doesn't have to pay social security, contribution to pension, etc. I think that would be backtracking, and would set a poor precedent.

I believe I read all of the city's contracts are tied up until 2007. With that said, then, how does the city cut costs for the coming year? Wages and insurance contributions are not touchable for the time being.

Tax Time
Authored by: DRR on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 12:04 PM MST
You need to start with cuts for administrative employees. Once you have set a precedent you must follow through with the union employees in 2007. When they fight it you must be willing to take it to arbitration. I understand the rules the state has in place. If we try and fail we can then go to the state and say we have tried to cut our costs but you have tied our hands. Right now we just keep handing out the increases and saying there is nothing we can do about it. Have we tried?

Tax Time
Authored by: got it on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 10:36 AM MST
One other Q, DDR....

How do you eliminate the step increases, just leave the employee at 25,000 with no increase? Is that what you mean? How do they get raises, then?

Thanks for the ideas!

Tax Time
Authored by: DRR on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 11:52 AM MST
One year freeze.

Tax Time
Authored by: DP on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 03:39 PM MST
How about this novel idea...pay someone what they're worth. Steps and scales sound too much like Socialism to me.

P.S. Re: Quid pro quo...since when do state statutes mean anything (i.e. Competitive Bidding, Use of County Sales tax money, illegal gambling, etc.)? Funny how in most circumstances, quid pro quo is generally unethical or actually illegal. How about this...you accept the cuts and we give you all jobs for another year!

Tax Time
Authored by: got it on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 04:41 PM MST
Yeah, I hear you, but what are we going to enforce and what aren't we? I think we would have our hands full if we decided we weren't going to play by the med/arb and quid pro quo laws. Too many liberals that would not allow that to happen.

And the city services we are provided are, for the most part, very well administered. You have to be careful not to cross the line of decreasing salary/benefits to the point that the only people taking city jobs are derelicts.

Tax Time
Authored by: L Schaffer on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 07:31 PM MST
How about this, take the fire dept. off the tax roll, from what I am told, the fire dept. makes over $3 million dollars for the city and that money goes into the coffers for the city to spend whatever. The new ambulances were paid by capital improvements funds. The fire dept. knows how to take the people to the cleaners by what they charge the peple who use the ambulance. Maybe by taking them off the tax roll, the fire dept. will find out they did not have to hire 6 new people.

Tax Time
Authored by: got it on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 08:53 PM MST
OK...this is turning into more of a personnel issue than a services issue. If we are going to cut personnel, where? L Schaeffer, your vote is for the FD. Where else? Police dept? Library? Public works?

We obviously can't take depts off the tax roll. What else should we do?

Tax Time
Authored by: got it on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 09:32 PM MST
OK...I have been thinking. Here are my ideas:

Reduce plantings around the city. The boats with flowers, flower gardens etc can be reduced.

Garbage pickup every other week instead of every week.

No more recycling pickups. You must take your recyclables to the center on Y yourself. As a result, garbage must be in clear bags so recyclable materials are not thrown out. Garbage will not be picked up if you have recyclables in your garbage.

Re-pave less traveled streets with concrete curb and gutter and asphalt instead of making everything be concrete.

Close one fire station. The north side fire station protects mostly incarcerated people, anyways.

Police and fire depts charge when they respond to burglar or fire alarms that are false.

Ensure the lawn waste drop off site is self sufficient. Fees must cover the operation of the site.

Reduce snow plowing of secondary and tertiary streets to business hours only. Use overtime to plow primary arterials only.

Reduce library hours. Eliminate the Bookmobile.

Make the new water park self sufficient. (See yard waste drop off site above)

Increase costs of building permits, etc, and citations written by the police dept.

Require all employees to use the most cost effective means of health care-- no choice.

Add a one dollar surcharge to tickets at the Leach. 50 cents goes to continued upkeep of the theater, 50 cents goes to debt retirement.

Turn off some street lights on arterials between midnight and 6am (Main St, Jackson St, Murdock Av, Witzel Av--streets that are busier even late at night)

Tax Time
Authored by: L Schaffer on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 09:37 PM MST
What do you mean we can't take depts. off the tax roll, our city manager is talking about removing garbage collection from the tax roll and putting in it's place a fee. Don't tell me it can't be done. You are the one that asked for suggestions, if we can't take dept. off what is left. If you are talking about health insurance, don't bother, Aurora has that tied up with a contract with the city.

Tax Time
Authored by: got it on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 09:41 PM MST
I see what you're saying. I didn't get what you meant when you said take them off the tax rolls. I wonder if the ambulance revenue would be enough for the entire FD budget tho. Are you talking about just putting the money earned by the ambulance right back into the FD? Is that what you mean?

Aurora does not have every employee in their insurance. Some employees choose TouchPoint. If they would all have to go to Aurora, there would be additional savings.

What do you think of my other ideas? Which do you like? Which don't you like?

Tax Time
Authored by: L Schaffer on Wednesday, November 02 2005 @ 09:53 PM MST
The money would stay with the fire dept. They would pay all the salaries and benefits and buy what equipment that is needed. Some of your suggestions are good.