There has been some controversy regarding a comment made by Mark Bomchill about evolution and then also I got a letter he sent to the Sun Post after the school closings forwarded to me and several other RSIS families. In it Mark is pretty unkind to the RSIS program, Jane Byrne and Supt. Mack. I went direct to Mark for a comment and he said he deeply regrets having said that and feels horrible about it. I believe him and I personally have said (a few!) things I regret in the heat of passion. As I have gotten older, I'm getting better, but emotions get the better of all of us sometimes. If we hold everything a person says against them then we have to look in the mirror too and look at our own words as well.
I also had a few more e-mails regarding how I stand on issues:
One gentleman asked about how I feel about having armed police in the high schools and I am not in favor. I understand that some students can get out of hand, but then I think other officers could be called in. On a day to day basis having an armed officer around would scare me. What if that officer perceived that a student was out of control and wound up firing his weapon at that student and seriously injuring or killing them? I would not want that to happen to my child and I'm sure no one else would want it either. Also, what if one of the students somehow got a hold of that officer's weapon. Just the off chance that could happen is enough to scare me. I hear too much about police officers using excessive force or firing at people when they shouldn't to feel entirely secure with the idea of an armed officer.
If you disagree feel free to post and let me know why. I would love to hear from you.
As I said, I'm getting back to folks as quickly as possible, so be patient if you haven't heard back yet!
Thought you'd want to know.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
I have a vote...at least one!
Someone called me up and told me they are going to vote for me! So I have at least 3 including my own and my husband's! Yes, I know that isn't many but it is one more than I had yesterday. Truthfully, the fact that someone took the time to call me to tell me they are voting for me really made my day.
I have not campaigned virtually at all and I didn't make the speed campaigning last night because in between picking up a child and dropping off a child, I decided to make dinner and then after picking up a child I had to go to Menards to get a refrigerator lightbulb because I am tired of groping around in the dark looking for my yogurt! I know what you are thinking, what is more important, light in the refrigerator or winning the election? Quite frankly, I would have been so late by then, light won out.
I have put my summaries in all of the free publications, the District's, the Sun Post and Channel 12 and I also plan to be interviewed on Election Night although it will be after the polls closed. My pseudo campaign manager, daughter will enjoy the experience, which is why I decided to do it.
Also, the fact that I have not campaigned, does not mean I do not care or that I don't intend to give it my absolute best if I am elected, it is just that time and money are short right now. I DO expect to have time after the first of the year, money is another thing entirely, but really, there are a lot of things that are more important.
Just in case you don't know this already, my two key reasons for running are that I REALLY think that the Eastern cities like Brooklyn Center and Crystal need a voice on the board. I actually had a guy say to me during the referendum campaign (he was from one of the Western Cities) when I told him I was from Brooklyn Center "Are you even in the district?" YES I said, I am and I'm proud to be in the district!! I think Brooklyn Center in particular is under represented and it needs some voice. Secondly, I think the district needs to be re-united after the school closings and I want to help with that.
So, in summary, if you are going to vote for me, would you tell a friend? Also, if you wanted to make a sign, I wouldn't object. I have no money for signs but I always think homemade is best anyway. The things my kids have made for me are much more treasured than the store bought items.
Thanks!
Thought you'd want to know.
I have not campaigned virtually at all and I didn't make the speed campaigning last night because in between picking up a child and dropping off a child, I decided to make dinner and then after picking up a child I had to go to Menards to get a refrigerator lightbulb because I am tired of groping around in the dark looking for my yogurt! I know what you are thinking, what is more important, light in the refrigerator or winning the election? Quite frankly, I would have been so late by then, light won out.
I have put my summaries in all of the free publications, the District's, the Sun Post and Channel 12 and I also plan to be interviewed on Election Night although it will be after the polls closed. My pseudo campaign manager, daughter will enjoy the experience, which is why I decided to do it.
Also, the fact that I have not campaigned, does not mean I do not care or that I don't intend to give it my absolute best if I am elected, it is just that time and money are short right now. I DO expect to have time after the first of the year, money is another thing entirely, but really, there are a lot of things that are more important.
Just in case you don't know this already, my two key reasons for running are that I REALLY think that the Eastern cities like Brooklyn Center and Crystal need a voice on the board. I actually had a guy say to me during the referendum campaign (he was from one of the Western Cities) when I told him I was from Brooklyn Center "Are you even in the district?" YES I said, I am and I'm proud to be in the district!! I think Brooklyn Center in particular is under represented and it needs some voice. Secondly, I think the district needs to be re-united after the school closings and I want to help with that.
So, in summary, if you are going to vote for me, would you tell a friend? Also, if you wanted to make a sign, I wouldn't object. I have no money for signs but I always think homemade is best anyway. The things my kids have made for me are much more treasured than the store bought items.
Thanks!
Thought you'd want to know.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Speed Campaigning tonight
Tonight there will be a "speed campaigning" session at the Fieldhouse restaurant in Crystal. What I understand that means is you can get fast answers to the questions you have about what the candidates positions are on the issues. I think that makes a lot of sense and I plan to put in an appearance. I wish that the Forum would have been more question and answer and less candidate statement. Folks have already heard our statements and I believe most people anyway want to know what we have to say on the varying issues out there.
One thing a lot of people have been asking me is how I would deal with the diversity in the district and how to reach more diverse people and get them involved. As I looked at the candidates all 11 of them are white and all 11 of them (probably) came from average middle class homes. Also as I go around to the committees and meetings I see a LARGE amount of white middle class folks but rarely do I see anyone of minority background or even a different economic background.
The fact is, MANY of the people in the district are NOT white middle class. One way I can see to reach more people is to simply go to them. Have meetings outside the district offices, hold meetings at Meadow Lake, at Northport, at Lakeview or somewhere in Robbinsdale or Crystal. GET OUT THERE!! And be inviting make it community friendly, offer childcare, offer food. Figure out what folks need to get more involved and bring it to them. If we do not think outside the box, we will all be sitting inside the box looking and mirror images of each other. How will we adequately serve the district interests if we do not look like the district population?
I said this at the Forum and a lot of people disagreed with me, when we were talking about the possible moving of the district offices I said I thought that it would be nice to have a more "open" location. Where people feel more comfortable getting to it. A lot of the candidates said they thought the current location was centrally located. I agree from a location standpoint, but from ease of access I do not agree. Most of the meetings I've attended are in the boardroom, which is located up an elevator and down a small hallway. Also, parking isn't very accomodating either, you have to walk quite a distance to get to the actual building.
What I meant by open is to have a building you could park in front of and walk in and access the conference area on the first floor. Also, make it a more "open door" policy and have open houses so people can come and see the offices. Invite people in and they will feel more comfortable coming.
Thought you'd want to know.
One thing a lot of people have been asking me is how I would deal with the diversity in the district and how to reach more diverse people and get them involved. As I looked at the candidates all 11 of them are white and all 11 of them (probably) came from average middle class homes. Also as I go around to the committees and meetings I see a LARGE amount of white middle class folks but rarely do I see anyone of minority background or even a different economic background.
The fact is, MANY of the people in the district are NOT white middle class. One way I can see to reach more people is to simply go to them. Have meetings outside the district offices, hold meetings at Meadow Lake, at Northport, at Lakeview or somewhere in Robbinsdale or Crystal. GET OUT THERE!! And be inviting make it community friendly, offer childcare, offer food. Figure out what folks need to get more involved and bring it to them. If we do not think outside the box, we will all be sitting inside the box looking and mirror images of each other. How will we adequately serve the district interests if we do not look like the district population?
I said this at the Forum and a lot of people disagreed with me, when we were talking about the possible moving of the district offices I said I thought that it would be nice to have a more "open" location. Where people feel more comfortable getting to it. A lot of the candidates said they thought the current location was centrally located. I agree from a location standpoint, but from ease of access I do not agree. Most of the meetings I've attended are in the boardroom, which is located up an elevator and down a small hallway. Also, parking isn't very accomodating either, you have to walk quite a distance to get to the actual building.
What I meant by open is to have a building you could park in front of and walk in and access the conference area on the first floor. Also, make it a more "open door" policy and have open houses so people can come and see the offices. Invite people in and they will feel more comfortable coming.
Thought you'd want to know.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Answering questions
I have been getting e-mails from folks and have been answering them as quickly as possible. My e-mail is darrellandbeth@comcast.net if you have any questions for me I'd be glad to answer them. I didn't establish a web site for my election campaign so e-mail or reading this blog are the best ways to get answers to your questions.
Here are some common concerns:
One big one is that a lot of people seem to feel that if they voted 'yes' for the referendum that schools would not close. I was on both campaigns and I'm here to tell you that no one ever said that. In fact a very detailed flier went out illustrating what would happen if the referendum passed and what would happen if it failed and school closings wasn't on either list because voting for or against the referendum would not affect school closings.
The things that WERE promised by passing a referendum is that elementary band and orchestra would be maintained, that some middle school extra curricular activites would be restored, that elementary art would possibly be restored and that class sizes would be reduced. I see all of those things in action now at the schools.
I said in my statement on Channel 12 that I noticed during my time working with the school board on the referendum campaigns how many of them had been on the board since the last referendum campaign in 2001!! and some had been on even before that. I honestly think that anyone with issues about the way things have transpired should seriously consider voting in a new group. Even if you do not vote for me, vote for someone other than an incumbent. Then, perhaps, you will see different results and perhaps some you will like better. However, there is the old saying of "the grass is always greener."
I also was talking with a parent over the weekend and her frustration was that even though the referendum passed she is still seeing huge fees for school activities. She told me at the high school level each activity is $200 with a maximum of $700 per family! That is a lot of money! And I see her frustration. As a board member, I would certainly like to at least see if any reduction could be made in those costs? I don't know if it would be possible however. As time passes, it seems things go up so quickly it is amazing to me. I was watching a movie on Turner Classic Movies called "The Blob" with Steve McQueen and Steve and his friend had to interupt a movie that some of his high school buddies were watching and they were concerned that their "80 cents" had been wasted!! I took my daughter to a movie the other day and between popcorn and tickets I spent over $30!!
I digress, sorry!
Another concern is the idea of "back door taxes" meaning raising taxes to pay for repairs to our buildings without asking the tax payers first. I told the folks that asked me that I am completely against it. If we want money we should come forth and ask for it. If the taxpayer sees fit to give it to us, great, if not we need to find other means to fund the repairs outside of raising taxes. I compared the idea of back door taxes to me as a parent breaking into one of the many elderly people's homes near me who do not have kids in the district and stealing money out of their purses or wallets to pay for my kids school supplies. That of course is unacceptable and would result in jail time. So should stealing taxpayers money. It is not okay and will not be tolerated by me as a board member.
That is all the time I have for today...I will plan on updating you with more answers to questions tomorrow.
Thought you'd want to know.
Here are some common concerns:
One big one is that a lot of people seem to feel that if they voted 'yes' for the referendum that schools would not close. I was on both campaigns and I'm here to tell you that no one ever said that. In fact a very detailed flier went out illustrating what would happen if the referendum passed and what would happen if it failed and school closings wasn't on either list because voting for or against the referendum would not affect school closings.
The things that WERE promised by passing a referendum is that elementary band and orchestra would be maintained, that some middle school extra curricular activites would be restored, that elementary art would possibly be restored and that class sizes would be reduced. I see all of those things in action now at the schools.
I said in my statement on Channel 12 that I noticed during my time working with the school board on the referendum campaigns how many of them had been on the board since the last referendum campaign in 2001!! and some had been on even before that. I honestly think that anyone with issues about the way things have transpired should seriously consider voting in a new group. Even if you do not vote for me, vote for someone other than an incumbent. Then, perhaps, you will see different results and perhaps some you will like better. However, there is the old saying of "the grass is always greener."
I also was talking with a parent over the weekend and her frustration was that even though the referendum passed she is still seeing huge fees for school activities. She told me at the high school level each activity is $200 with a maximum of $700 per family! That is a lot of money! And I see her frustration. As a board member, I would certainly like to at least see if any reduction could be made in those costs? I don't know if it would be possible however. As time passes, it seems things go up so quickly it is amazing to me. I was watching a movie on Turner Classic Movies called "The Blob" with Steve McQueen and Steve and his friend had to interupt a movie that some of his high school buddies were watching and they were concerned that their "80 cents" had been wasted!! I took my daughter to a movie the other day and between popcorn and tickets I spent over $30!!
I digress, sorry!
Another concern is the idea of "back door taxes" meaning raising taxes to pay for repairs to our buildings without asking the tax payers first. I told the folks that asked me that I am completely against it. If we want money we should come forth and ask for it. If the taxpayer sees fit to give it to us, great, if not we need to find other means to fund the repairs outside of raising taxes. I compared the idea of back door taxes to me as a parent breaking into one of the many elderly people's homes near me who do not have kids in the district and stealing money out of their purses or wallets to pay for my kids school supplies. That of course is unacceptable and would result in jail time. So should stealing taxpayers money. It is not okay and will not be tolerated by me as a board member.
That is all the time I have for today...I will plan on updating you with more answers to questions tomorrow.
Thought you'd want to know.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Forum is over and here is my response!
What is your name and you are running, why??
It is an ever and often repeated refrain
Because I care so I decided to try
To make a difference on a higher plain.
I’ve volunteered in all types of venues
Meeting many different people with different views
I’ve been on committees, referendums and PTO
All of these things have helped me to grow.
I have less experience than the rest of the field
The recent Forum showed that to the nth degree
But my passion and intensity will produce a big yield.
As will my never-ending creativity!
Proverbs 16:18 I think, says it all:
“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
If you vote for me on the 3rd of November
I promise this is something I’ll always remember!!
Beth Sharpe
Candidate For School Board, District 281
It is an ever and often repeated refrain
Because I care so I decided to try
To make a difference on a higher plain.
I’ve volunteered in all types of venues
Meeting many different people with different views
I’ve been on committees, referendums and PTO
All of these things have helped me to grow.
I have less experience than the rest of the field
The recent Forum showed that to the nth degree
But my passion and intensity will produce a big yield.
As will my never-ending creativity!
Proverbs 16:18 I think, says it all:
“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
If you vote for me on the 3rd of November
I promise this is something I’ll always remember!!
Beth Sharpe
Candidate For School Board, District 281
Thursday, October 22, 2009
League of Women Voters Event tonight
Tonight is the League of Women Voter's Candidate Forum where all the candidates are available to answer questions of the public. I am looking forward to it, I think it will give us all a good sampling of how the voters really feel. I hope a lot of people attend but I am not sure that will be the case. I wonder if they held these events in an "easier" spot more folks would come? Meaning like a community center or library or something. The district offices are not that easy to get into and then that conference room is stuck in the corner of the building up an elevator...
Anyway, I'm preparing what I will say and last night my daughter and I went to the store and she helped me pick up something to wear. I actually picked it out and she told me why she wouldn't have picked it. Actually while I'm on the subject, what is up with the plaid? It is EVERYWHERE!! It is like Paul Bunyon exploded or something! I guess I like plaid, but I've never worn much of it and have never really wanted to wear it having not grown up in a logging camp. My daughter, however, is all over it. Before school even started she had to have a flannel shirt and then last night a pair of plaid leggings and yet another plaid shirt. I'm looking at it as the Fucia and Teal of my day (yes, the 80's!!...like totally!!).
Okay, back to the election. My biggest concern for the district going forward is unification meaning getting everyone back to being together in a community again. There are so many hurt feelings out there and it turns up everywhere at every meeting I've attended recently from Communication Advisory to PTO someone brings it up. It needs to be addressed and in a kind, understanding fashion so folks can know that the district hears them and cares about their concerns. That means good communication about any future changes and also expedited work on any issues that are out there now.
I also have real concern about the serious lack of funds from the State. It doesn't sound like much of anything will be forthcoming and what will that mean for the class sizes that were reduced from the referendum and all the other great things we've been able to implement? I would like to see us keep the good stuff and figure a way to cut other things too make up the difference in funds if we can possibly do that.
Anyway, come to the forum if you can at all make it.
Thought you'd want to know.
Anyway, I'm preparing what I will say and last night my daughter and I went to the store and she helped me pick up something to wear. I actually picked it out and she told me why she wouldn't have picked it. Actually while I'm on the subject, what is up with the plaid? It is EVERYWHERE!! It is like Paul Bunyon exploded or something! I guess I like plaid, but I've never worn much of it and have never really wanted to wear it having not grown up in a logging camp. My daughter, however, is all over it. Before school even started she had to have a flannel shirt and then last night a pair of plaid leggings and yet another plaid shirt. I'm looking at it as the Fucia and Teal of my day (yes, the 80's!!...like totally!!).
Okay, back to the election. My biggest concern for the district going forward is unification meaning getting everyone back to being together in a community again. There are so many hurt feelings out there and it turns up everywhere at every meeting I've attended recently from Communication Advisory to PTO someone brings it up. It needs to be addressed and in a kind, understanding fashion so folks can know that the district hears them and cares about their concerns. That means good communication about any future changes and also expedited work on any issues that are out there now.
I also have real concern about the serious lack of funds from the State. It doesn't sound like much of anything will be forthcoming and what will that mean for the class sizes that were reduced from the referendum and all the other great things we've been able to implement? I would like to see us keep the good stuff and figure a way to cut other things too make up the difference in funds if we can possibly do that.
Anyway, come to the forum if you can at all make it.
Thought you'd want to know.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Hi, My name is Beth Sharpe and I'm running because...
So, today I stopped over at Channel 12 studios and recorded my candidate message which will air tomorrow around 4pm or after, the nice man who helped me wasn't sure exactly when it would air but said it would be multiple times since their news repeats.
I couldn't decide what to say, not that I don't know why I'm running, but 45 seconds is rather short to fit it all in. So what I decided to go with is a simple introduction of who I am i.e. Beth Sharpe, married with two children daughter who attends Plymouth Middle School, son who attends Robbinsdale Spanish Immersion and then I went onto share what I'm currently involved in, i.e. at the district I am on the Commmunications Advisory Council, at RSIS I am on the PTO and at PMS, I'm co-chairing the magazine fundraiser. Then, I shared that I was involved in both referendum campaigns and during which time, I discovered how long many of the board members had served. I said that I thought if we wanted to have different outcomes, we needed to elect different people. (This is not to say I do not like the current board members as people, I just think different opinions are needed desperately!} Finally, I said, "I am different! and I'd appreciate your vote on November 3."
Yep, I really said that. It was 45 seconds and I figure people will remember that, hopefully, in a positive way!! :)
The news guy also shared with me that only 8 out of the 11 candidates chose to do an on air statement. I cannot imagine who would not want to do that, it is an inexpensive (FREE!!) way to reach a lot of people. I am not the cutest person on the block but I did it and I wore black so I would look slimmer and it worked, had I turned sideways, you wouldn't have known I was there. Okay, I'm perhaps adding in a bit of sarcasm!! :)
Tomorrow night is the League of Women Voters forum where all the candidates appear in the district board room and answer questions. This time, we get to make a 2 minute statement, so I can take the "different" part out and actually elaborate a bit on what I would like to do if I'm elected.
I would appreciate any support I can get there, it starts at 7pm and goes until 8:30 pm. Again, it is at the district board room at 42nd and Winnetka at the district offices.
Thought you'd want to know.
I couldn't decide what to say, not that I don't know why I'm running, but 45 seconds is rather short to fit it all in. So what I decided to go with is a simple introduction of who I am i.e. Beth Sharpe, married with two children daughter who attends Plymouth Middle School, son who attends Robbinsdale Spanish Immersion and then I went onto share what I'm currently involved in, i.e. at the district I am on the Commmunications Advisory Council, at RSIS I am on the PTO and at PMS, I'm co-chairing the magazine fundraiser. Then, I shared that I was involved in both referendum campaigns and during which time, I discovered how long many of the board members had served. I said that I thought if we wanted to have different outcomes, we needed to elect different people. (This is not to say I do not like the current board members as people, I just think different opinions are needed desperately!} Finally, I said, "I am different! and I'd appreciate your vote on November 3."
Yep, I really said that. It was 45 seconds and I figure people will remember that, hopefully, in a positive way!! :)
The news guy also shared with me that only 8 out of the 11 candidates chose to do an on air statement. I cannot imagine who would not want to do that, it is an inexpensive (FREE!!) way to reach a lot of people. I am not the cutest person on the block but I did it and I wore black so I would look slimmer and it worked, had I turned sideways, you wouldn't have known I was there. Okay, I'm perhaps adding in a bit of sarcasm!! :)
Tomorrow night is the League of Women Voters forum where all the candidates appear in the district board room and answer questions. This time, we get to make a 2 minute statement, so I can take the "different" part out and actually elaborate a bit on what I would like to do if I'm elected.
I would appreciate any support I can get there, it starts at 7pm and goes until 8:30 pm. Again, it is at the district board room at 42nd and Winnetka at the district offices.
Thought you'd want to know.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Why I'm Running
So I realized that this blog is linked to a page naming all the candidates. I didn't realize that and since I don't have a web site, I suppose it makes sense. The problem being I've been babbling on about day to day matters and haven't said a great deal of why I'm running or what I plan to do for the district should I get elected.
Why I'm running?? I honestly pondered for a while before making the decision to run the thing that put me over the edge was the division I see in the district. The school closings really caused a lot of hard feelings and I can understand them totally. RSIS is my son's school and it moved into the Sunny Hollow building. A lot of the parents of former Sunny Hollow students were not happy with the district's decision to keep the Sunny Hollow name on the RSIS sign. They feel it perpetuates the hurt by leaving the school name out there and that it may cause RSIS families to use that name when describing their school. I can totally see that because I honestly have found myself doing it on occasion, although, I usually stop myself before the name comes out of my mouth. I am not certain if anything can be done to change the sign, but if there is, I would certainly be willing to help to get it done. In the interim, I helped to get a statement read at our PTO meeting to remind parents to not use the Sunny Hollow name and also we put something in our most recent newsletter. That will at least get the awareness piece out there. I didn't do that because I'm running, I did that because I empathize with the loss and wanted to do my part to help to make it at least a small amount better.
So, if I didn't do it because I'm running why did I bring it up here? Because I think it is an excellent example of how people feel out there and that largely that resentment is manifested toward resentment of the district. I think a lot of people don't feel their opinions counted or were even considered during the process. And THAT is something I do want to help to change if I'm elected.
I want to make it clear that all opinions count and I want to work harder at making workable compromises for the problems that still are out there and need attention.
One of them is the renovations needed at Northport and Lakeview. Northport would have been the school my children would have attended had we not been chosen for RSIS. I have spent quite a lot of time there during the two referendum campaigns I was involved in and can truthfully say that my children would have thrived there. It is a really nice and charming school with a lot of really terrific, involved families in it. I would have been proud to serve on their PTO and involve myself in their other activities as well. The reason I chose RSIS over Northport had nothing to do with the school itself, it was entirely because I am of limited economic means and I felt that another language would help my children with their future. I wanted them to have every advantage when going out to get a job and the ability to speak another language, particularly Spanish is a great advantage in our global economy. That was the pure reason why I did it and I'm happy to say it turned out really well.
But, the fact remains that Northport needs some renovation as does Lakeview. I spent time at Lakeview both within my tenure during the referendums and also RSIS developed a partnership with them to share games for the Fun Fair. A partnership that I would like to see expanded because let's face it the less schools need to buy the more we can spend on the important things..our students. So I'd like to help to develop more partnerships between schools and encourage the sharing of items that they normally would have to purchase from an outside vendor. This could be expanded even to sharing fundraisers for instance using the same Magazine vendor, etc..
I keep getting off topic, I apologize for that, but there are so many things I would LOVE to have the opportunity to pursue and I want to share them all!!
One thing I'm really good at is figuring out creative ways to make things happen and to do them without spending an arm and two legs! I stretch our household budget to the maximum it can be stretched using coupons and finding ways of getting good deals and I'd use those ideas in the school board. We need to save money with the current forecast of less money from the Government, it is imperative to find new and creative ways to spend less and save more.
As far as Northport and Lakeview, I'd want to hear from the community and those who would be actually impacted by any change that is made and then I'd make the decision based on those opinions and also the best economic choice. However, I'd really work hard to communicate the reasons for any change that is made clearly and concisely.
I'd appreciate it if you would consider me when you make your important decision to vote for the school board this November.
Thought you'd want to know.
Why I'm running?? I honestly pondered for a while before making the decision to run the thing that put me over the edge was the division I see in the district. The school closings really caused a lot of hard feelings and I can understand them totally. RSIS is my son's school and it moved into the Sunny Hollow building. A lot of the parents of former Sunny Hollow students were not happy with the district's decision to keep the Sunny Hollow name on the RSIS sign. They feel it perpetuates the hurt by leaving the school name out there and that it may cause RSIS families to use that name when describing their school. I can totally see that because I honestly have found myself doing it on occasion, although, I usually stop myself before the name comes out of my mouth. I am not certain if anything can be done to change the sign, but if there is, I would certainly be willing to help to get it done. In the interim, I helped to get a statement read at our PTO meeting to remind parents to not use the Sunny Hollow name and also we put something in our most recent newsletter. That will at least get the awareness piece out there. I didn't do that because I'm running, I did that because I empathize with the loss and wanted to do my part to help to make it at least a small amount better.
So, if I didn't do it because I'm running why did I bring it up here? Because I think it is an excellent example of how people feel out there and that largely that resentment is manifested toward resentment of the district. I think a lot of people don't feel their opinions counted or were even considered during the process. And THAT is something I do want to help to change if I'm elected.
I want to make it clear that all opinions count and I want to work harder at making workable compromises for the problems that still are out there and need attention.
One of them is the renovations needed at Northport and Lakeview. Northport would have been the school my children would have attended had we not been chosen for RSIS. I have spent quite a lot of time there during the two referendum campaigns I was involved in and can truthfully say that my children would have thrived there. It is a really nice and charming school with a lot of really terrific, involved families in it. I would have been proud to serve on their PTO and involve myself in their other activities as well. The reason I chose RSIS over Northport had nothing to do with the school itself, it was entirely because I am of limited economic means and I felt that another language would help my children with their future. I wanted them to have every advantage when going out to get a job and the ability to speak another language, particularly Spanish is a great advantage in our global economy. That was the pure reason why I did it and I'm happy to say it turned out really well.
But, the fact remains that Northport needs some renovation as does Lakeview. I spent time at Lakeview both within my tenure during the referendums and also RSIS developed a partnership with them to share games for the Fun Fair. A partnership that I would like to see expanded because let's face it the less schools need to buy the more we can spend on the important things..our students. So I'd like to help to develop more partnerships between schools and encourage the sharing of items that they normally would have to purchase from an outside vendor. This could be expanded even to sharing fundraisers for instance using the same Magazine vendor, etc..
I keep getting off topic, I apologize for that, but there are so many things I would LOVE to have the opportunity to pursue and I want to share them all!!
One thing I'm really good at is figuring out creative ways to make things happen and to do them without spending an arm and two legs! I stretch our household budget to the maximum it can be stretched using coupons and finding ways of getting good deals and I'd use those ideas in the school board. We need to save money with the current forecast of less money from the Government, it is imperative to find new and creative ways to spend less and save more.
As far as Northport and Lakeview, I'd want to hear from the community and those who would be actually impacted by any change that is made and then I'd make the decision based on those opinions and also the best economic choice. However, I'd really work hard to communicate the reasons for any change that is made clearly and concisely.
I'd appreciate it if you would consider me when you make your important decision to vote for the school board this November.
Thought you'd want to know.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Up early even though I can sleep in
This makes no sense. I got up before 7 and I can sleep in as the kids have no school. I've heard of elderly people not sleeping, but I'm not elderly yet, but if this trend continues by the time I'm 60 I won't sleep at all. Not a bad plan I guess as I can accomplish a lot, although I'd be tired probably.
Last evening we had conferences. My son is doing better although still has challenges. I am impressed with how far he has come though and am stressed about middle school next year. I am praying and investigating options because I'm telling you that a large middle school will not work for this child. I have heard of numerous other schools both within district and not and am also considering a partial home school idea too. It will work out.
Daughter is doing great at AVID which I cannot say enough positive things about. I didn't know how the very large binder would work for her, but it is really keeping her organized and on top of things. She is even getting an A in math, which I don't think I ever did! I would love to see that program expanded or at least it's concepts because I think alot more kids need it than actually get into it.
I saw people standing outside the building handing out campaign literature and I didn't have any and didn't hand out any. I believe that this election will be left up to the voters and whether or not they choose to vote me in with the knowledge of me they gain via the district information and the sun post. I really have no other means to create literature and no money to buy any right now. So we'll see!!
Thought you'd want to know.
Last evening we had conferences. My son is doing better although still has challenges. I am impressed with how far he has come though and am stressed about middle school next year. I am praying and investigating options because I'm telling you that a large middle school will not work for this child. I have heard of numerous other schools both within district and not and am also considering a partial home school idea too. It will work out.
Daughter is doing great at AVID which I cannot say enough positive things about. I didn't know how the very large binder would work for her, but it is really keeping her organized and on top of things. She is even getting an A in math, which I don't think I ever did! I would love to see that program expanded or at least it's concepts because I think alot more kids need it than actually get into it.
I saw people standing outside the building handing out campaign literature and I didn't have any and didn't hand out any. I believe that this election will be left up to the voters and whether or not they choose to vote me in with the knowledge of me they gain via the district information and the sun post. I really have no other means to create literature and no money to buy any right now. So we'll see!!
Thought you'd want to know.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
The music is back and so is the sun
There was still no sound on my computer this AM and I finally called in the big guns, i.e. my brother. He came and restored the sound by some mysterious clicking and moving of keys and icons. I asked how he did it and he said something he did worked, but he didn't know what. The resulting sound restoration meant I could do my normal workout! It was great I had music and everything. I did the full thing since tomorrow the kids are off school and you never know what can happen!
I also finally arranged my "studio time" with Channel 12 so I can record my candidate profile. I feel so up and coming! Although really I'm terrified as I don't care to be photographed, filmed or any other type of thing. I don't like seeing myself reflected in things. It isn't that I do not like my appearance really, I just don't care to look at myself, makes no sense I know.
This am I also saw the sun!! There was some snow lurking about too, but not a lot so one could get out and walk ones beagle and not see it if they didn't look! It wasn't nearly as cold as it was yesterday, the wind was down for one.
Finally, I saw a cousin this weekend I hadn't seen maybe ever. I have a ton of cousins, my mom had a really big family and a catholic one, so they had a lot of kids. This particular cousin lives in California and raises birds in an Avairy (I don't actually know how to spell that!) her birds are of the Parrot variety she said. She also has a pigmy goat and several Love Birds. She looked a lot like my mom, she had her type of facial features. I am always surprised when I meet another cousin and see the similarity in features. I don't think I look that much like my mom, but maybe I do and don't realize it because as I mentioned, I don't focus on my face a lot.
Thought you'd want to know.
I also finally arranged my "studio time" with Channel 12 so I can record my candidate profile. I feel so up and coming! Although really I'm terrified as I don't care to be photographed, filmed or any other type of thing. I don't like seeing myself reflected in things. It isn't that I do not like my appearance really, I just don't care to look at myself, makes no sense I know.
This am I also saw the sun!! There was some snow lurking about too, but not a lot so one could get out and walk ones beagle and not see it if they didn't look! It wasn't nearly as cold as it was yesterday, the wind was down for one.
Finally, I saw a cousin this weekend I hadn't seen maybe ever. I have a ton of cousins, my mom had a really big family and a catholic one, so they had a lot of kids. This particular cousin lives in California and raises birds in an Avairy (I don't actually know how to spell that!) her birds are of the Parrot variety she said. She also has a pigmy goat and several Love Birds. She looked a lot like my mom, she had her type of facial features. I am always surprised when I meet another cousin and see the similarity in features. I don't think I look that much like my mom, but maybe I do and don't realize it because as I mentioned, I don't focus on my face a lot.
Thought you'd want to know.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Snow and working out
Why is it snowing? Can someone answer that for me please? I just need a simple explanation, nothing to do with jet streams or global warming or lack thereof. Just plain why will do. It is currently October 12 by my calendar and completely unacceptable that there is precipitation other than rain falling from the sky, yet as I look out the window there is white stuff all over my car and it isn't cotton. But it will be 60 degrees this weekend and you'll forget all about this, people are telling me. But, what if it comes back, say before the 20th. I will not be anymore ready for it on the 20th than I am on the 12th! In fact anywhere before NOVEMBER 20, I cannot handle this type of weather. The reason being that winter in MN lasts too long anyway and starting this early makes it TOO long. I remember a couple of years ago when it got to be really hot in April causing me to have to haul a pair of shorts out of storage earlier than planned. I remember my white legs glowing and my unaccustomed sweaty brow glistening in the mid-day heat. I thought at that time that the seasons are mixed up and that this is an anomoly. I should appreciate it during my sweating fest. But, now it is snowing in early October and I am NOT appreciating it. I was scrambling to find snow pants, gloves and other items for my son this AM and it is too early. OKAY, I'm done whining, maybe! AND maybe tomorrow I'll even appreciate it.
This AM I did accomplish something that I was quite thrilled about. As I said I had to haul out snow pants and my son decided he needed a lunch made and he also was out of cereal which involved making toast. Making toast used to be easy but then my husband decided we no longer need a toaster. He bought a toaster oven and explained one can make toast in it and even put the butter on during the toasting process. Amazing! I personally prefer putting the toast in the little slot at the top of the toaster and then buttering after. I didn't get a vote and off the toaster went!
Anyway, so I made toast with butter and I normally always work out in the AM. I had given up the idea this morning though due to all the other stuff going on. But, then I looked at the clock and realized it would be possible to squeeze in about 20-25 minutes. AND I DID! I did this in spite of the stress of snow, of lunch making, of lack of toaster and of lack of music because my computer lost it's volume and I normally use itunes to play for exercise music, but I improvised! I actually exercised and didn't give up and felt much better as a result. Two different people told me I look thinner this weekend, which helped me to want to continue, but I was just delighted that I actually did this..it is not like me at all. I would have totally given up in the past!
Thought you'd want to know.
This AM I did accomplish something that I was quite thrilled about. As I said I had to haul out snow pants and my son decided he needed a lunch made and he also was out of cereal which involved making toast. Making toast used to be easy but then my husband decided we no longer need a toaster. He bought a toaster oven and explained one can make toast in it and even put the butter on during the toasting process. Amazing! I personally prefer putting the toast in the little slot at the top of the toaster and then buttering after. I didn't get a vote and off the toaster went!
Anyway, so I made toast with butter and I normally always work out in the AM. I had given up the idea this morning though due to all the other stuff going on. But, then I looked at the clock and realized it would be possible to squeeze in about 20-25 minutes. AND I DID! I did this in spite of the stress of snow, of lunch making, of lack of toaster and of lack of music because my computer lost it's volume and I normally use itunes to play for exercise music, but I improvised! I actually exercised and didn't give up and felt much better as a result. Two different people told me I look thinner this weekend, which helped me to want to continue, but I was just delighted that I actually did this..it is not like me at all. I would have totally given up in the past!
Thought you'd want to know.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Illness attacks!
I got sick! I never get sick, I know people say that, but it is honestly the case with me. I can't remember the last time I had a flu and this time it lasted only 24 hours and I'm assuming wasn't the H1N1 because that probably would have been worse. Funny thing though, even though I spent about 2 hours throwing up within hearing distance of my spouse, he still wondered if I'd be picking up my daughter from a field trip! I do not understand men and I never will. NO I said, I think perhaps he should pick her up as me showing up with my barf bucket would be less than a welcome site! Plus driving would be rather challenging.
Then, he came down with it last night and it manifested itself with a temperature of 101.5, high I think. Instead of relaxing, his idea was to build a fire in his outdoor fire pit and grill up some ribs! Makes sense...NOT! So, about 15 minutes after sitting out by his fire, he comes in wondering why he's so cold! Okay. He curls up on the couch and I mention casually that the ribs are still on the grill. He knows he says, and mumbles something about checking them. I look outside and see quite a lot of smoke coming from the grill indicating perhaps something might be burning. I let it go, how bad can it be?
About 15 minutes later he pulls the ribs off, although, its hard to tell if they are ribs or the charred remains of an ancient civilization! He announces they are done and heads back to the couch.
Thinking now he may actually head upstairs to bed, I run downstairs to grab the sheets I had washed after my illness episode and take them out of the dryer and make up the bed for him. But, NO, he does not go to bed he curls back up on the couch, fully dressed. He did take off his shoes at least. Well, I got the kids to bed and then I went to bed and still he remained on the couch. I fell asleep and woke up this AM to discover he spent the night on the couch. I went downstairs to check his temp and he still registered over 101. But, he woke up, got ready for work and had some coffee. i told him to watch what he ate, perhaps some dry toast or something. He said he'd have cold pizza. Sure makes sense. Then for good measure he shoveled in some chili cheese Fritos. Yeah, I want to see that come back up later!
He did let me drive him down the block to where he parks his work truck, but wanted me to park about a block away. I told him No, I'd drop him closer. Less chance of him colapsing beside the road, I thought and then he'd be out of traffic.
When I called to check on him he said he is remarkably better and all is good. I'm guessing that translates to the fact that his temp is down to 101 and he hasn't barfed yet! MEN!
Thought you'd want to know, but maybe not.
Then, he came down with it last night and it manifested itself with a temperature of 101.5, high I think. Instead of relaxing, his idea was to build a fire in his outdoor fire pit and grill up some ribs! Makes sense...NOT! So, about 15 minutes after sitting out by his fire, he comes in wondering why he's so cold! Okay. He curls up on the couch and I mention casually that the ribs are still on the grill. He knows he says, and mumbles something about checking them. I look outside and see quite a lot of smoke coming from the grill indicating perhaps something might be burning. I let it go, how bad can it be?
About 15 minutes later he pulls the ribs off, although, its hard to tell if they are ribs or the charred remains of an ancient civilization! He announces they are done and heads back to the couch.
Thinking now he may actually head upstairs to bed, I run downstairs to grab the sheets I had washed after my illness episode and take them out of the dryer and make up the bed for him. But, NO, he does not go to bed he curls back up on the couch, fully dressed. He did take off his shoes at least. Well, I got the kids to bed and then I went to bed and still he remained on the couch. I fell asleep and woke up this AM to discover he spent the night on the couch. I went downstairs to check his temp and he still registered over 101. But, he woke up, got ready for work and had some coffee. i told him to watch what he ate, perhaps some dry toast or something. He said he'd have cold pizza. Sure makes sense. Then for good measure he shoveled in some chili cheese Fritos. Yeah, I want to see that come back up later!
He did let me drive him down the block to where he parks his work truck, but wanted me to park about a block away. I told him No, I'd drop him closer. Less chance of him colapsing beside the road, I thought and then he'd be out of traffic.
When I called to check on him he said he is remarkably better and all is good. I'm guessing that translates to the fact that his temp is down to 101 and he hasn't barfed yet! MEN!
Thought you'd want to know, but maybe not.
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