thsas comment-46433 2011-02-25T01:21:44Z 2011-02-25T01:21:44Z Teachers do not pay taxes. The public pays their taxes, because they pay their salary. thsas 2011-02-25T01:21:44Z thsas comment-46432 2011-02-25T01:19:56Z 2011-02-25T01:19:56Z The party of "choice"? Right.... thsas 2011-02-25T01:19:56Z cogmeyer comment-46423 2011-02-24T20:08:19Z 2011-02-24T20:08:19Z Marion I would love for you to prove me wrong. Show me some data on dollars spent by any of our public unions on international organizing in restrictive countries. Lets see the names of organizations and individuals funded by these unions that have actually stood up for workers in places that it really matters. There may be union heros out there. But they certainly cannot be found on the steps of the capitals in Sacramento or Madison WI. cogmeyer 2011-02-24T20:08:19Z Marion Millin comment-46343 2011-02-24T06:32:00Z 2011-02-24T06:32:00Z and why do you assume that people can't and aren't doing both? Marion Millin 2011-02-24T06:32:00Z cogmeyer comment-46342 2011-02-24T06:17:10Z 2011-02-24T06:17:10Z On a side note, I am working in China this week. It always amuses me that unions are very willing to do the easy work of "showing solidarity" with other public employee unions when it just involves chanting slogans and waving signs for the TV cameras. If the reall heros of the American labor movement were here today, they would be asking why you aren't protesting work conditions in Asia, Africa and the many other places where workers are actually suffering. I always look to the day when a few solidarity types actually try to do something for workers rights in countries where it might actually make a difference, instead of pretend fights for "working class values" and "democracy". There are some folks over here that could use your help. cogmeyer 2011-02-24T06:17:10Z cogmeyer comment-46341 2011-02-24T06:09:08Z 2011-02-24T06:09:08Z I still don't get how this is a "fight for democracy"? Isn't it the epitome of democracy for workers to decide if they want to join an organization, as opposed to making it a condition of employment. You may wish to re-read the definition of democracy. cogmeyer 2011-02-24T06:09:08Z Marion Millin comment-46320 2011-02-23T21:30:38Z 2011-02-23T21:30:38Z That's a good question AG. The show of solidarity was beyond "with other unions." It elevated and connected the issues: "This is about an assault on the working class values of America. This is a fight for democracy. This is a fight that all working Americans cannot afford to lose." Marion Millin 2011-02-23T21:30:38Z Davi Rodrigues comment-46297 2011-02-23T20:51:08Z 2011-02-23T20:51:08Z I was there, and thought the whole thing an exercise in confusion. What's going on in Wisconsin is not the same as is not happening here. Showing solidarity with other unions is fine, but what did the whole thing accomplish? Davi Rodrigues 2011-02-23T20:51:08Z Curmudgeon comment-46291 2011-02-23T20:13:19Z 2011-02-23T20:13:19Z The difference is, the public sector employees expect the rest of the taxpayers to pay for the entirety of their health care and pensions. They likewise back union bosses who demand that, in order to work, a person must belong to their organization, adhere to their rules, and pay them for the privilege of working — with much of the money they’re forced to pay going toward electing the very politicians who are enslaving future generations of working men and women by promising benefits packages that are economically unsustainable, and that can never be honored (but that won’t come due until they are long out of office). You support union bosses who demand conformity, and who frown on individualism among their rank and file. You support rewarding mediocrity at the same rate as excellence; you support wealthy union bosses over private sector workers; you support crooked politicians over reformers; you support the haves over the have nots. What does this say? Curmudgeon 2011-02-23T20:13:19Z Marion Millin comment-46290 2011-02-23T19:54:45Z 2011-02-23T19:54:45Z Are your arguments supported by a complete lack of knowledge of history? Marion Millin 2011-02-23T19:54:45Z Marion Millin comment-46286 2011-02-23T19:41:00Z 2011-02-23T19:41:00Z (I found the "Serfs Unite" photo ironic for other reasons). Employees in the public and private sector and those that support them are taxpayers, aren't they? Marion Millin 2011-02-23T19:41:00Z Curmudgeon comment-46285 2011-02-23T19:34:29Z 2011-02-23T19:34:29Z "Serf's Unite." A rich irony indeed. We the taxpaying serfs, are paying for the knights and manor officials of the public sector. Curmudgeon 2011-02-23T19:34:29Z Curmudgeon comment-46284 2011-02-23T19:32:19Z 2011-02-23T19:32:19Z GOOD. Government employees should not have collective bargaining. They aren't working for a large private corporation. They are ostensibly working for the public. Curmudgeon 2011-02-23T19:32:19Z Marion Millin comment-46280 2011-02-23T18:32:17Z 2011-02-23T18:32:17Z This is the most passive/aggressive non-Comment I have ever read. It has so many falsehoods and rich ironies in it that one hardly knows where to begin. Life is too short to even try. Marion Millin 2011-02-23T18:32:17Z Marion Millin comment-46281 2011-02-23T18:31:45Z 2011-02-23T18:31:45Z Who is "striking against taxpayers"? These taxpayers are mobilizing to preserve their rights for collective bargaining, which a reported 11 states are attempting to strip away. Marion Millin 2011-02-23T18:31:45Z Craig Powell comment-46274 2011-02-23T17:25:51Z 2011-02-23T17:25:51Z This is the most Orwellian press release I have ever read. It has so many falsehoods and rich ironies in it that one hardly knows where to begin. Life is too short to even try. Craig Powell 2011-02-23T17:25:51Z MyQuest comment-46273 2011-02-23T17:21:18Z 2011-02-23T17:21:18Z Workers striking against capitalist pigs is one thing...but striking against taxpayers they serve is another. MyQuest 2011-02-23T17:21:18Z cogmeyer comment-46256 2011-02-23T13:20:29Z 2011-02-23T13:20:29Z "This is about an assault on the working class values of America. This is a fight for democracy" ------------------------------ Really? I can't think of anything more democratic than letting workers vote each year to keep their union representation, and letting workers exercise their free will to decide whether to shell out $500-$1000 in annual union dues. In fact, it is the current system (in WI and CA) that forces workers to join a corrupt labor union to work certain jobs that is undemocratic and an "assault on working class values" cogmeyer 2011-02-23T13:20:29Z mybluehaven comment-45210 2011-02-07T05:05:11Z 2011-02-07T05:05:11Z The American River Parkway is a blight and lowers property values for the communites along the river between Discovery Park and Cal Expo: South Natomas, River District, North Sacramento, Woodlake, and Cal expo. The city and county refuse to close down the homeless camps. There are also frequent murders and assaults, The communities affected by the lawlessness and blight should sue for the purposeful redlining of poor and low income areas! mybluehaven 2011-02-07T05:05:11Z Marion Millin comment-45191 2011-02-06T16:09:40Z 2011-02-06T16:09:40Z Yes, thanks, sorry to hear you were laid off. There is a lot of info available at the links. And you're right "others" -- in addition to the diligent and dedicated members of SARA and other groups -- need "recognize the problems affecting the parkway;" if it is to be preserved and if voters are asked to approve a plan in 2012. The idea is to preserve and depressurize the Parkway, by looking at the big picture of the parks system, serving the regional community as a whole. Creating a continuous parks/open space/farmland system, interconnected and accessible by non-motorized transportation is an inspired concept. There's nowhere else like it! Grass Roots Working Group for Adequate, Stable, Long Term Funding for Our Regional Parks and Open Space System http://www.sarariverwatch.org/grassroots.php Many other links and details there! And the opportunity to join or visit meetings of the Grassroots Working Group Option being considered: http://www.sarariverwatch.org/options.pdf Marion Millin 2011-02-06T16:09:40Z JakesDad comment-45151 2011-02-05T06:08:42Z 2011-02-05T06:08:42Z The American River Parkway is indeed a jewel and deserves to be protected and preserved. While the county has reduced their funding, a remedy should not fall solely on their shoulders. The cities of Sacramento, Ranch Cordova and the neighborhoods surrounding the parkway all have a stake in the parkway. A special district or joint powers agreement is the way to secure adequate funding from the appropriate sources. As one of the Park Rangers laid off due to budget cuts, I am happy seeing others recognize the problems affecting the parkway. JakesDad 2011-02-05T06:08:42Z JAT comment-45073 2011-02-04T01:28:03Z 2011-02-04T01:28:03Z The parkway is indeed a jewel worthy of protection. The entire region needs to step up and provide funding, not just Sacramento. JAT 2011-02-04T01:28:03Z Marion Millin comment-44931 2011-02-02T07:12:01Z 2011-02-02T07:12:01Z GWG provided this info: In response to the comment, the County General Fund contribution to Regional Parks in FY 2005/2006 was $4.6 million. In FY 2009/2010 the General Fund Contribution was $2.1 million. Over the 12 year period from FY 1999/2000 through FY 2010/2011, the County General Fund contribution has ranged from a low of $2.1 million in FY 2009/2010 to a high of $6.0 million in FY 2001/2002 and averaged $4.5 million over the 12 year period. Marion Millin 2011-02-02T07:12:01Z Marion Millin comment-44849 2011-02-01T18:01:30Z 2011-02-01T18:01:30Z Thank you, Megan. The numbers are here, with graphs and pie charts. (Links and contacts in article) http://www.sarariverwatch.org/janet_baker.pdf http://www.sarariverwatch.org/grassroots.php http://www.sarariverwatch.org/Public_Presentation_Jan_8_2011.pdf http://www.sarariverwatch.org/budget_brochure.pdf Or, if you will, imagine a pie. Divide the pie into 100 pieces. That's about 1%. That was then. Now cut one of those hundredths into three pieces. That's what the Regional Parks System got last year. The "Crown Jewel of Sacramento" gets an even smaller portion of that one third of one hundredth slice of the pie. http://www.sarariverwatch.org/board.pdf WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Save the American River Association finds that: 1. The Regional Parks System is important to the quality of life and economic future of the residents of Sacramento County. 2. Preservation and protection of the American River Parkway requires a thriving, successful Regional Parks System. 3. Sacramento County government has been unable to provide adequate,long term, stable funding of the Regional Parks System. 4. Sacramento County government has the duty, which is on par with the other duties of the Board of Supervisors, to preserve the Regional Parks System assets that have been developed with taxpayer funds and donations and to protect these assets from damage. read more: http://www.sarariverwatch.org/board.pdf Marion Millin 2011-02-01T18:01:30Z M Smith comment-44821 2011-02-01T15:57:14Z 2011-02-01T15:57:14Z Thanks for bring attention to this issue. The American River Parkway is certainly an important and valuable natural and recreational resource. One note: the article states, "[t]he regional park system's share of Sacramento County's Discretionary General Fund went from 1.02% in 2005-06 to .36% in 2009-10." Please share the actual dollar amounts. Percentages can be misleading. M Smith 2011-02-01T15:57:14Z Marion Millin comment-39855 2010-11-01T16:20:29Z 2010-11-01T16:20:29Z Yes, although that aspect is never mentioned in any of the discussions. Traditional uses have been yards, gardens, garages, studios, a zone of quiet in the center of blocks more and more ringed on the outside by "significant cumulative impacts," as the California Environmental Quality Act puts it. Marion Millin 2010-11-01T16:20:29Z NRM comment-39608 2010-10-27T17:43:21Z 2010-10-27T17:43:21Z Were not alleys also quiet zones behind properties (except when trash was being picked-up)? Now residents on the front of the properties are facing noice on the front and back! NRM NRM 2010-10-27T17:43:21Z NRM comment-38277 2010-10-02T20:39:51Z 2010-10-02T20:39:51Z This was a very good read for me. Just knowing that Kevin Johnson wants to himself hire the City Manager makes me not want to deal with the issue or even read about it. I did read this, and feel very well informed. Keep up the good work. NRM NRM 2010-10-02T20:39:51Z Dale Kooyman comment-37556 2010-09-21T02:11:01Z 2010-09-21T02:11:01Z Thanks for the clarification. Dale Kooyman 2010-09-21T02:11:01Z William Burg comment-37542 2010-09-20T19:54:28Z 2010-09-20T19:54:28Z No, I'm talking about the RHI group meetings--I mentioned them at the last MNA board meeting. Things were starting to slip again (one meeting where notice was not sent, another where only two people attended) but they seem to be back on track. William Burg 2010-09-20T19:54:28Z Dale Kooyman comment-37439 2010-09-18T20:49:15Z 2010-09-18T20:49:15Z Bill, are you talking about the Saturday Sept 25 meeting at the Sr. Center? Or are there others? Dale Kooyman 2010-09-18T20:49:15Z William Burg comment-37416 2010-09-18T04:11:44Z 2010-09-18T04:11:44Z MBA took the first step this past week--they sent out invitations to confirm who can make the meeting two weeks in advance, instead of two days before the meeting, or not at all. William Burg 2010-09-18T04:11:44Z Marion Millin comment-37406 2010-09-18T01:07:14Z 2010-09-18T01:07:14Z Thanks William. What can be done to get more attendance at the meetings? Or even more awareness that they are occurring? The bars' intercommunication seems a good plan. It suggests that they - as a body - become more engaged with the behavior of their customers AFTER leaving the bar or nightclupretendingtobearestaraunt. It's interesting talking to folks who have lived in cities back east, where the integration of mixed use -- business and residential -- was more historic and gradual, than the last decade's explosion in Midtown. One of my neighbors (who has actually come to several of the cit/yMBA task force meetings -- thank you, Steven!!!!!!!!) is a fierce advocate for a very simple concept he says is basic and common in NYC and elsewhere: REVERSE GREETERS! Steven says the business owner or manager is at the door at the end of the evening, thanking customers, wishing them well, noting their sobriety level and REMINDING THEM THAT THEY ARE EXITING INTO A RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD. What many of those, who haven't experienced, don't understand it is, Midtown (particularly certain neighborhoods, hence the term "OVERCONCENTRATION") has been under assault for several years (and yes there is a public record) from (some of) those who own and operate and patronize recently established Midtown watering holes, who don't CARE AT ALL about the fact that they are EXITING INTO A RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD. On top of disturbing the peace and vandalization. some commit worse crimes. They also keep other Sacramentans out of Midtown, out of those businesses that aren't just All About The Booze, Marion Millin 2010-09-18T01:07:14Z William Burg comment-37404 2010-09-18T00:48:31Z 2010-09-18T00:48:31Z Here is a link to a News 10 story featuring a potential solution that Midtown Business Association is promoting: a text-based program to identify problem patrons kicked out of bars, and get them kicked out of ALL bars. http://www.news10.net/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=95430&provider=top Aja actually mentioned this to me at a recent RHI meeting...although it was a very, very poorly attended meeting. Hopefully attendance will pick up. William Burg 2010-09-18T00:48:31Z William Burg comment-37369 2010-09-17T22:39:47Z 2010-09-17T22:39:47Z Jay: Third Saturday has never received the promotion it deserves, and currently it is sitting on the wrong end of K Street at the far end of the Westfield mall. Bring that stuff back to the other side of the mall, in front of the Crest and the Cathedral or way down to the Esquire, close enough where we can bridge that gap between Downtown and Midtown. William Burg 2010-09-17T22:39:47Z Jay Spooner comment-37359 2010-09-17T21:49:43Z 2010-09-17T21:49:43Z Thank you Marion. Lots of good food for thought...A couple of things, There IS already a Third Saturday event that is basically an unattended failure each month which leads me to believe that people might not be quick to patronize events on K St...Porta-potties NEED to be more prevalent to keep people from using yards as such...The Kings bring Millions of dollars into this community and have NEVER missed a loan payment(plus they bring TONS of entertainment and civic pride to this city) so going after them MIGHT not be the best idea...Starting Second Saturday earlier(especially in Winter) seems like a no-brainer...The river promenade MUST be better utilized and probably will once the new Crocker opens... Jay Spooner 2010-09-17T21:49:43Z Marion Millin comment-37260 2010-09-17T00:26:29Z 2010-09-17T00:26:29Z We'll always have Le Petit Paris .... oh wait --- Marion Millin 2010-09-17T00:26:29Z Marion Millin comment-37256 2010-09-16T23:38:09Z 2010-09-16T23:38:09Z Hello Zen, you presented "The Parrhesiac's" topic slightly more peacefully, didn't you? I wouldn't agree the issue was "left out" but it wasn't hammered either and maybe required some reading between the lines that "The Parrhesiac" would not do. This piece was sent as an open letter to the City Council, intentionally stripped down to a peaceful discussion and list of potential solutions, including these relevant to "the criminal element": -- incorporating the existing and ongoing city/resident/business task force work on Midtown night life and Second Saturday issues -- new city management and planning for sustainable development to "bring people downtown" while maintaining quality of life aka livability -- recently implemented plans to enforce the 10:00 p.m. curfew, open 20th Street between J and K (and enforce traffic laws for crossing J Street?) and provide additional police presence on Second Saturday "In reality, this incident had nothing to do with Second Saturday; it has everything to do with a prevalent subculture of gangs & violence." That's not reality. As you noted "this act of violence occurred does have a correlation to Second Saturday." Wherever we each place different values on different aspects of this, certainly the size of the loitering Second Saturday crowd at that hour had something to do with the fact that the police were inside the business and outside on either side of the business and the shooter got away undetected. It seems like looking at all the aspects of the reality of the situation will help us "learn and grow together as community from this event ." On the other hand, "The Parrhesiac" has strong views on "a prevalent subculture of gangs & violence," which maybe s/he will write about on SacPress one day. Marion Millin 2010-09-16T23:38:09Z Marion Millin comment-37250 2010-09-16T22:44:07Z 2010-09-16T22:44:07Z Mike W, you may disagree, but it's still a fact: "Please do not overlook the fact, that the reason that Second Saturday the time and Midtown the place, became the current ground zero for this behavior is city and business management POLICIES over the last several years, that intentionally created an overwhelming climate of singles bar and drunken street partying in Midtown neighborhoods." There is history here and a public record, much of it on SacPress, if you want to be more informed. If you want to participate in meetings and help build solutions, that would be great too. I understand the point you are making and it's agreed. You are missing the bigger picture, which is what my statement was about. "I would hate to lose any of it because of an isolated event" just presents more false choices and assumptions. You may notice at the top of the list of possibilities, "A Second Saturday Synergy 2.0 may include," a reference to work that is already being done and NEW city management which presents an opportunity to NOT continue the short-sighted, unsustainable policies I mentioned. This serves the community as a whole, not just drunks and disruptors or "the criminal element." " -- incorporating the existing and ongoing city/resident/business task force work on Midtown night life and Second Saturday issues " -- new city management and planning for sustainable development to "bring people downtown" while maintaining quality of life aka livability" Also, something at the end of the list that will serve the whole community, in the spirit you brought up. It will level out the demands on Midtown businesses, rather than some having to jump through all sorts of time- and money-consuming hoops, while other businesses get away with ... illegal behavior, reflected in their operation and the behavior of their customers and impacting residential neighborhoods. " -- challenging over-emphasis on singles bar scene, "drunkfests" and street closures as a Midtown draw - including on Second Saturday " -- requiring existing "nightlife" businesses to prove compliance with existing codes, noise ordinances and conditions of city Entertainment Permits and state ABC permits" Marion Millin 2010-09-16T22:44:07Z Mike W comment-37219 2010-09-16T19:17:48Z 2010-09-16T19:17:48Z "intentionally created an overwhelming climate of singles bar and drunken street partying in Midtown neighborhoods." I completely disagree. I do see 'regular' bars and restaurants, quite a few I frequent often. Its one of the reasons I bought a home in Midtown. There may be a bad egg in the bunch, but dont lump all businesses together. The culinary experience and nightlife in Midtown are simply amazing, I would hate to lose any of it because of an isolated event. Violence happens. Its an awful, terrible, shitty fact. Lets agree to treat our fellow brother and sister better. Teach our kids that violence is never the answer, and most of all set a good example and follow through. Mike W 2010-09-16T19:17:48Z Marion Millin comment-37205 2010-09-16T17:25:59Z 2010-09-16T17:25:59Z thanks for your comment, cogmeyer. points well taken. Please do not overlook the fact, that the reason that Second Saturday the time and Midtown the place, became the current ground zero for this behavior is city and business management policies over the last several years, that intentionally created an overwhelming climate of singles bar and drunken street partying in Midtown neighborhoods. Residents and neighborhoods have been working diligently with city and business leaders to try to maintain quality of life and address problems BEFORE Second Saturday reached the level that it would be shut down as Thursday Night Market was. Marion Millin 2010-09-16T17:25:59Z cogmeyer comment-37203 2010-09-16T17:07:21Z 2010-09-16T17:07:21Z Marion Thanks for putting some thought into possible solutions and getting the conversation started. But really this is the same issues of youth congregation that we have always had in Sacramento and elsewhere. In my generation in the 80's there was cruising at Broadway and at Sunrise Mall. Some (myself included) would find a secluded side street and we'd pound beers from the trunk. Over time the scene would explode with hundreds of youths from all over, neighbors would complain, trash would be strewn and meanwhile the gang element would take notice and arrive in larger numbers each week. There would be fights and occasional gunfire. Police would adopt a zero tolerance policy with helicopters hovering overhead and blocked off streets., Soon the scene would be shutdown and the youth would regroup elsewhere. I remember at one as I moved into adulthood and out of that activity there were large "street parties" happening on the nearly abondoned streets around the wrecking yards on South Sunrise. The drag racing at Del Paso Blvd which had been going on since the 50's suddenly turned into a street party and was shutdown. My point (other than a trip down memory lane) is that the 2nd Saturday situation is by no means unique. Many of you from many generations experienced or were part of the same kind of scene. In general no 16 year old or 19 year old is going to hang out at a city sponsored youth event (or late night basketball leagues etc etc). The answers are simple here. The police will do what is always done, come in with overwhelming presence, zero tolerance, and helicopters and shut the late night scene down. The youth will simply congregate somewhere else but the activity will not change. Maybe 2nd Saturday will revert back to an art event, maybe not. Perhaps the 2nd Saturday situation is a bit unique because is drew kids and young adults from many areas of the city (much like the Broadway cruise in the 80's). This probably raises tensions, especially if various gang factions are at the same place. In this regard it is probably better if going forward the kids do their beer drinking a bit closer to their own neighborhood. There is no place like home after all. So in summary Marion, you have some constructive ideas. But the reality is that the police will clamp down hard on the outdoor drinkers, the underage, and the loiterers at 10pm. The kids will move on and do the same thing elsewhere, sometimes including the gunfire. And then we will see what becomes of 2nd Saturday cogmeyer 2010-09-16T17:07:21Z Marion Millin comment-37202 2010-09-16T16:59:11Z 2010-09-16T16:59:11Z Maybe the officials who are currently so focused on separating out all the various factors as if they are independent of each other, ought to recognize there is Second Saturday the (former) Art Walk and Second Saturday the Street Fair. Maintain an art reception event where the galleries are and take the street fair to another time and/or another place altogether. Marion Millin 2010-09-16T16:59:11Z LisaB23 comment-37200 2010-09-16T16:44:54Z 2010-09-16T16:44:54Z Electeds and many residents do not want to see the Art Walk go away. Many ideas are floating around on how to curb the attraction of the Art Walk to those not interested in art. The after party needs to go and one viable way is to curb the street activity. I'm not a fan of closing more streets because you simply shove people further into residential areas and and that will make the problem worse not better. I see the logic of dispersing the crowd but the other impacts are not good either. That's kind of where the ideas are taking up, curbing the attraction to those who have no interest in art and no desire to patronize neighborhing restaurants or legitimate well managed night clubs with good security. LisaB23 2010-09-16T16:44:54Z Zen comment-37199 2010-09-16T16:39:51Z 2010-09-16T16:39:51Z I think Parrhesiac brings up a good point in relation to your article Marion. Sometimes commenting on issues left out are just as important then what was in the writing. You certainly have done the same as others have in posts on SacPress. Same can be said about tone. As for Gang violence, It is a problem and that this tragedy could have happen anywhere. Gang related deaths occurs too often in certain neighborhoods without the strong reaction it received over this Second Saturday act. ' With that said, the reason this act of violence occurred does have a correlation to Second Saturday. The Event's reputation as a place to hang out, art watch, people watch, and enjoy what Midtown businesses have to offer attracted these negative people who committed the violence. No question. However, this is is not the first death or act of violence in Midtown either related to the nightlife or not related, but because it occurred on a Second Saturday and issues surrounding the event were already building steam through the summer, it created a strong media and community reaction. I just hope we can learn and grow together as community from this event as your article entails. Zen 2010-09-16T16:39:51Z Marion Millin comment-37196 2010-09-16T16:10:56Z 2010-09-16T16:10:56Z "Tell me what a task force or a "community meeting," or "other constructive means," is going to do to reduce violence - please, I'm dying to hear. " There is violence expressed in your attitudes and comments. Start where you are to reduce violence. " ... to deal with the medias manufactured and/or naturally evolved gang/violent subcultures that exist in America ..." If you were engaged with your community on these issues, one benefit might be a more informed awareness of the causes and circumstances of these "subcultures." You might come to view others as people, rather than distance yourself behind the notion that these "subcultures" are "medias manufactured and/or naturally evolved" cartoon characters. "I really want to hear - from ANYONE how to stop, reduce or reverse a culture of gang violence... good luck - oh and even if you had a decent solution, it will never happen in this country." You have again insisted on making the thread about your focus, rather than engaging with what the article actually says. If you feel so strongly and don't want to cooperate with others, maybe you can write your own article and start your own discussion. You will surely find voices here that will help educate you on "how to stop, reduce or reverse a culture of gang violence" and the fact that it was not created by "the media." Marion Millin 2010-09-16T16:10:56Z The Parrhesiac comment-37194 2010-09-16T15:50:57Z 2010-09-16T15:50:57Z Tell me what a task force or a "community meeting," or "other constructive means," is going to do to reduce violence - please, I'm dying to hear. I really want to hear - from ANYONE how to stop, reduce or reverse a culture of gang violence... good luck - oh and even if you had a decent solution, it will never happen in this country. The Parrhesiac 2010-09-16T15:50:57Z dshore22 comment-37187 2010-09-16T09:40:56Z 2010-09-16T09:40:56Z If 2ndSat goes because of this, what's left of culture in Sac??? the Kings??? Great piece, MM... dshore22 2010-09-16T09:40:56Z Marion Millin comment-37182 2010-09-16T06:54:48Z 2010-09-16T06:54:48Z Lori, thank you so much for your comments and for engaging with your students on this. Clearly they trust you enough to be honest about what's going on. As striking as your descriptions are, the first thing that comes to mind is: these kids need something to do. Rather than demonize youth and expend all their energy shifting blame or avoiding liability/responsibility for conditions their policies created .............. what if those "local electeds and community and business leaders" saw an opportunity for creative ideas about developing more family oriented events and cultural opportunities, that gave those underage more options than finding free booze on the street or looking forward to when they turn 21 to come to Midtown to get drunk and disorderly in the bars. This tragic event, the injuries and death, provided an opportunity for leadership. It looks like it's up to the community to help the leaders find some vision and imagination to break out of their dependence on alcohol as the only way to "bring people downtown." Marion Millin 2010-09-16T06:54:48Z LoriJablonski comment-37180 2010-09-16T05:44:49Z 2010-09-16T05:44:49Z As I posted on facebook earlier this week, I polled students Monday in my five high school government classes on whether they had heard about the shootings in midtown. In every class at least four or five kids volunteered that they were actually there hanging out...and many were still there quite late. They very clearly are still under the impression that they were out for Second Saturday. I asked about curfew sweeps, they said they saw them, but had no worries because there are never enough police on hand to corral all the underage kids. One told me she and her friends just kept their heads down by the Marrs Building and waited for the police to blow by. Some quietly confirmed that there is heavy underage drinking going on because alcohol is very easy to come by on the street, whether you bring your own bottle or not...just walk around and folks will offer. The scourge of gang-related violence may have indeed resulted in the murder of Victor Zavala...obviously, we must do more--much more-- to prove we're serious about getting at the underlying causes of gang and youth violence both here in Sac and beyond. But the kids in my classes who volunteered they were there are not involved in gang activity...AND they too--all underage-- were roaming the streets of midtown well past midnight, along with hundreds of others their ages, give or take a few years. Marion, thank you so much for this proactive dose of reality in the wake of this tragedy. Your ideas here represent exactly the type of conversation our local electeds and community and business leaders should be fostering. Instead, we've had days of incantations that Second Saturday and the craziness of the afterparty scene are unrelated. Now, more recently, it seems to be morphing into attempts to explain away the horrific event as a random manifestation of " the prevalent subculture of gangs & violence." Breton tells us this morning to "shut up" until Sac manages to pass an anti-gang tax (not likely any time soon), while Parrhesiac says there's really nothing we can do here in our town in response to these dangerous conditions until all of American society changes. What madness. Thank you again, for giving us a glimpse of what compassionate, inclusive leadership forward might look like. LoriJablonski 2010-09-16T05:44:49Z Marion Millin comment-37136 2010-09-16T00:17:13Z 2010-09-16T00:17:13Z The Parrhesiac -- your certainty that a man died in "an incident unrelated to when and where it happened to take place" is no more convincing than when it's made on TV by local leaders. Your rant in this thread is also "unrelated to when and where it happened to take place." You're right, nothing is going to change unless closed minds (apparent since you didn't respond to the actual article, just went off) like yours open up and you join "our society" in creating a better way, whether it is on a dreaded "task force" or community meeting or other constructive means. Marion Millin 2010-09-16T00:17:13Z The Parrhesiac comment-37135 2010-09-15T23:32:04Z 2010-09-15T23:32:04Z Just what we need another government task force - give me a break. Another knee jerk reaction to an incident unrelated to when and where it happened to take place. In reality, this incident had nothing to do with Second Saturday; it has everything to do with a prevalent subculture of gangs & violence. People are shot, stabbed, beaten and murdered all over the place, in many locations, throughout our country. Until our society makes the definitive decision to deal with the medias manufactured and/or naturally evolved gang/violent subcultures that exist in America, nothing is going to change - and the reality is that as a country we are neurotically politically correct and culturally sensitive to our own detriment- so NOTHING is going to change - and random acts of violence will continue their pace - The Parrhesiac 2010-09-15T23:32:04Z Casey Kirk comment-37133 2010-09-15T23:10:57Z 2010-09-15T23:10:57Z Agreed, Marion. We would love for you (Ziggythe12) to contribute your own piece...along with anyone else! Contact me at casey@sacramentopress.com if you're interested in doing so. Casey Kirk 2010-09-15T23:10:57Z Marion Millin comment-37132 2010-09-15T22:55:21Z 2010-09-15T22:55:21Z I did look for an image to include and was unsuccessful in doing so. I have written in this piece and in others, making it very clear my concern about the victims and about contributing to solutions that benefit the whole community. Perhaps you could help by working on your own contributions to Sacramento Press or the ongoing meetings on these issues. Marion Millin 2010-09-15T22:55:21Z Lee Middleton comment-37131 2010-09-15T22:50:06Z 2010-09-15T22:50:06Z I would liked to have seen an image of the young man, Victor Hugo Perez Zavala attached to this piece. After-all, a human life was killed in Midtown following the Second Saturday event, not a business. Granted, Midtown business is indeed vital. However, placing so much emphasis on business when the larger picture is really about gang violence and the lost of a life. Add the following to your Second Saturday Synergy 2.0: What are the Mayor and Council Members doing to actually address the issue of gang violence within their districts? A shooting victim’s blood will look the same on any street in Sacramento whether residential or business district. May Victor Hugo Perez Zavala rest in peace! Lee Middleton 2010-09-15T22:50:06Z Marion Millin comment-37129 2010-09-15T21:57:57Z 2010-09-15T21:57:57Z much obliged, my dear Rhonda Marion Millin 2010-09-15T21:57:57Z Rhonda Erwin comment-37128 2010-09-15T21:51:53Z 2010-09-15T21:51:53Z This is an excellent article Marion! Rhonda Erwin 2010-09-15T21:51:53Z naga comment-37077 2010-09-15T18:04:57Z 2010-09-15T18:04:57Z Lisa823, then maybe Heller could build a bridge from MARRS over J St @ 20th to keep mobs out of the street naga 2010-09-15T18:04:57Z LisaB23 comment-37026 2010-09-15T08:14:26Z 2010-09-15T08:14:26Z Well said Craig. Unfortunately the leaders of MBA and the electeds only care about money. They speak for the bars and developers not for most of the small boutiques and art galleries who participate in the peaceful portion of Second Sat. City Staff and PD have tried but they're up against a political machine that favors bar owners and developers like Mike Heller/ owner of the MARRS building. LisaB23 2010-09-15T08:14:26Z LisaB23 comment-36887 2010-09-15T08:09:00Z 2010-09-15T08:09:00Z save the date; a community forum will be held on Saturday, September 25th at 10:00 AM at the Hart Center at 27th and J. This meeting is an opportunity for residents and businesses to come together and seek solutions. The problem has always been the event after the event that gets going around 11 pm. Most of the disturbance calls occur between 11 pm and 4 am. While the city and business community would like to put as much distance between the two (the art walk and the street party) as possible, it really defies logic because when you draw 15 -20,000 people to a neighborhood, the predators follow - no way around that unless you dial back to volume of people you're attracting in the first place. Second Saturday is two distinct events: Second Saturday the Art Walk and Second Saturday the street party. We have a late night problem in Midtown but Second Saturday dials it up to unacceptable levels. We stopped going a few years ago and like Jeff we stay home and stand guard to ensure our home is not vandalized. My hope is this horrible event is the catalyst for real and meaningful change and an appreciation for the residents, neighborhoods and unique destination businesses that draw creative people and makes Midtown a wonderful place to live. We need some bars and night clubs but not an entire city made up of nothing but bars. Balance is what we desperately need. LisaB23 2010-09-15T08:09:00Z Craig Powell comment-36923 2010-09-14T13:22:48Z 2010-09-14T13:22:48Z Thanks, posters, for "filling in the blanks" left by most media coverage of this problem. It strikes me that the communications gulf between impacted Midtown residents and supporters of Second Saturday is huge and growing wider by the day. And it is tragic that someone always seems to have to be killed before serious attention is paid to a problem in Sacramento (and sometimes not even then). I have been around long enough to have witnessed the rebirth of Midtown from its near moribund state in the 70's to its current richness and vitality. I am a businessman and property owner in Midtown, but I have always believed that nurturing and protecting the quality of life of Midtown residents should be the first priority, trumping other considerations. It is the key to its continued health as a vibrant community and the long-term success of its merchants. Every step we take towards making Midtown more liveable (traffic safety, control of the inebriated, graffiti abatement, crime suppression, noise control, better local schools, etc.) advances the long-term interests of residents and merchants alike. Let's keep our eye on the ball, city officials. Thanks for the article, Marion. You speak from the heart. Craig Powell 2010-09-14T13:22:48Z Rhonda Erwin comment-36907 2010-09-14T07:06:33Z 2010-09-14T07:06:33Z Marion, I REALLY enjoyed your article. You go girl! The residents of downtown deserve their Second Saturday's back! Rhonda Erwin 2010-09-14T07:06:33Z William Burg comment-36898 2010-09-14T04:23:40Z 2010-09-14T04:23:40Z rich: The person who wrote the article is not a Sacramento Press employee, she just lives in the affected neighborhood. She doesn't have any control over the advertisers on Sacramento Press. William Burg 2010-09-14T04:23:40Z William Burg comment-36897 2010-09-14T04:22:25Z 2010-09-14T04:22:25Z If you went home at 10:00, you missed the "event" we are talking about. There are two Second Saturdays--the one that stops at 10 PM, and the one that starts at 10 PM. William Burg 2010-09-14T04:22:25Z Oracle comment-36893 2010-09-14T03:01:18Z 2010-09-14T03:01:18Z Great editorial. Well done and on the money. Oracle 2010-09-14T03:01:18Z Dale Kooyman comment-36890 2010-09-14T00:25:23Z 2010-09-14T00:25:23Z I heard it is this Saturday the 18th. Must be a typo since the 28th is on a Tuesday. Most of the problems for nearby residents occur after 10 as inconsiderate and inebriated SS goers Dale Kooyman 2010-09-14T00:25:23Z dlb96797 comment-36889 2010-09-14T00:13:19Z 2010-09-14T00:13:19Z HIgher taxes for more police and security, legalize concealed weapons without permits for everyone, put face recogniition survellance cameras at every street corner and no one will be affraid anymore. YEAH! I have sympathy for the families of who have died, death is normal. Minimize your chances of dieing by avoiding the conflict. Azukar, Avalon and other places in town are known for atracting this type of crowd. It should not curtail everybody else's opportunity to enjoy themselves. Life is full of chances, good and bad, decisions have consequences, sometimes s#!t happens. Its no reason to spend the rest of your life affraid to experience new adventures or to enjoy what you already know, unless you don't mind wasting away your life. Do what you want, but don't take away our freedom to make our own choices. dlb96797 2010-09-14T00:13:19Z Terafloppy comment-36886 2010-09-13T23:35:43Z 2010-09-13T23:35:43Z --Jeffeff-- I feel for you. I don't think the problem is 2nd Saturday so much as the inability or desire by the Sac PD to properly police/supervise it. The fact that people like you are having to huddle down and hide in your homes is horrible. If we had more cops, 2nd Saturday would be a boon for business and something residents didn't have to fear. Terafloppy 2010-09-13T23:35:43Z jeffeff comment-36882 2010-09-13T23:26:26Z 2010-09-13T23:26:26Z If the rallying point here is indeed the neighborhood's livabililty for its residents, I would gladly get a bigger lock for my door and leave town for one evening a month IF the nebulous "they" challenged by the column (the "city/business/media power brokers"?) would seriously address three items: 1) leaf blowers, 2) bums, and 3) people riding their bikes on the sidewalk. Speaking as a resident of the neighborhood since before anyone even called it "Midtown", these three things far and away constitute the scourge -- not the once-a-month free-for-all from which I've had the sense to stay inside and hide for the past year-plus. Incidentally, I'm surprised the first "2nd Saturday" casualty was a shooting, and not an automobile-vs.-pedestrian. jeffeff 2010-09-13T23:26:26Z richwilson7777 comment-36881 2010-09-13T23:24:11Z 2010-09-13T23:24:11Z This article title "Sacramento Second Saturday Intervention" was surrounded by advertising banners for H House Kitchen and Bar(Happy Hour 4-8PM), DeVeres(Guinness Festival), The Golden Bear and Ink Eats(Build Your own Bloody Mary Bar). If i wasn't so lazy it would have been posted on FailBlog. richwilson7777 2010-09-13T23:24:11Z Lee Middleton comment-36880 2010-09-13T23:18:41Z 2010-09-13T23:18:41Z It is now time for Kevin Johnson to show just how strong a mayor he can be or wish to be. It is now time for Kevin Johnson to show his strength by holding community meetings in ALL eight (8) districts with every council member at his side advocating peace and nonviolence in their neighborhoods. This isn’t just a matter of Steve Cohn’s beloved midtown. The unfortunate incident following the Sacramento Second Saturday event is indicative to a citywide dilemma. This is an opportunity for the Mayor and City Council Members to embrace and cultivate the severity of this matter. If the mayor wants a “First Class City” than First Class Action will be required. Lee Middleton 2010-09-13T23:18:41Z Jon Mortimer comment-36858 2010-09-13T22:49:49Z 2010-09-13T22:49:49Z I'm curious about what alternatives you would propose to take the place of the brewpubs and bars. I am a regular Second Saturday goer -- and I don't drink. My friends and I usually head back home for a movie or dessert a little after 10. That's when all the (outdoor) music dies down and the vendors and artists shut their booths and close their galleries. Perhpas my experience is skewed because I'm never really out there past 10:30. There's nothing for me to do if I've already eaten. Would you want the galleries to stay open longer? Do you want more galleries, live music, jewelry vendors, etc? From what I can tell, Second Saturday has plenty of these things. At least between 5 and 10 p.m. Perhaps we could ask for a larger police presence after 10 or 11 p.m? From what I understand, that's when they get most incidents reported. This is the only real option I can think of, but I hope others have more. I recognize the terrible tragedy of having an innocent bystander killed during this event, but I hope we don't over react by shutting the entire event down. I mean no disrespect to his family, but the amount of community Second Saturday helps foster in Sacramento is worth appropriately nuancing our response to Perez's death. Jon Mortimer 2010-09-13T22:49:49Z Marion Millin comment-35888 2010-08-31T05:45:41Z 2010-08-31T05:45:41Z http://ulocal.kcra.com/_Unique-sun-dog-over-Woodland/PHOTO/10459465/62973.html Marion Millin 2010-08-31T05:45:41Z Marion Millin comment-35883 2010-08-31T03:37:25Z 2010-08-31T03:37:25Z Me too, Colleen! The frame wasn't big enough to show the rainbow in relation to the "sundogs" Marion Millin 2010-08-31T03:37:25Z Colleen Belcher comment-35879 2010-08-31T00:25:56Z 2010-08-31T00:25:56Z I've never seen an upside down rainbow. I'm blown away and in disbelief! Colleen Belcher 2010-08-31T00:25:56Z Marion Millin comment-35878 2010-08-30T22:23:25Z 2010-08-30T22:23:25Z saw it in a parking lot, had a camera with and it worked out. glad you like it, Kati. Marion Millin 2010-08-30T22:23:25Z Marion Millin comment-35877 2010-08-30T22:22:29Z 2010-08-30T22:22:29Z thanks for the link. did you see the rainbow? Marion Millin 2010-08-30T22:22:29Z Kati Garner comment-35874 2010-08-30T21:22:11Z 2010-08-30T21:22:11Z Way to go capturing this! Kati Garner 2010-08-30T21:22:11Z Isaac Gonzalez comment-35873 2010-08-30T20:38:45Z 2010-08-30T20:38:45Z http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun_dog I saw the same thing in the last two of your pictures last night too, I guess they are called SUN DOGS! Isaac Gonzalez 2010-08-30T20:38:45Z Isaac Gonzalez comment-35870 2010-08-30T20:24:17Z 2010-08-30T20:24:17Z Someone once told me that these "rouge" rainbows were more likely in areas with heavier pollution. Does anyone know if that's true? Isaac Gonzalez 2010-08-30T20:24:17Z Marion Millin comment-35867 2010-08-30T20:07:40Z 2010-08-30T20:07:40Z Thanks Richard. Marion Millin 2010-08-30T20:07:40Z RichardRich comment-35863 2010-08-30T18:54:04Z 2010-08-30T18:54:04Z Primitive humans would probably find divine provedence in this. Scientists, diffusion characteristics of water. Me? I vote for both. Very cool Marion. RichardRich 2010-08-30T18:54:04Z Marion Millin comment-28567 2010-05-29T01:28:27Z 2010-05-29T01:28:27Z Thanks Susie -- some of those "other cities" are in Sacramento! :yoiks: And too many folks are coming into the central city and destroying EVERYTHING in yards they've purchased, without regard for history, aesthetics, climate -- and in the case of heritage trees -- law. We ARE a World Class City Yeah! Marion Millin 2010-05-29T01:28:27Z Rhonda Erwin comment-28530 2010-05-28T20:07:50Z 2010-05-28T20:07:50Z Thanks Marion. Hi, Susie, I love ya both. I love the song too!!! I too am everyday people!! Now the song will be in my head all day-- lol heck, I’m singing it now lol I also hold dear to my heart; Bob Dylan, "Blowin in the Wind" Oh, the answers even today my friend are blowin in the wind!!! They are so obvious they can slap us in the fact or intangible as the wind! I love that Sam Cook was so inspired by it that he replied with, "Change is gonna come" I love that song and often play them both as I write.... Also, I play Bob Dylan's reply 'The times they are a changin" Those are special to me because it was black and white -- Ebony and Ivory in perfect harmony beautiful music of the times! I play lots of folks including Marvin Gaye, 'What's goin on" Heck I made a CD that I call my activist tunes, civil rights movement tunes - lol and play them at times when I need so desperately to look beyond the present for a better day. Sometimes the key to the future is the same key to unlocking the past so I look at the spirit of activism of yester years. Thanks again, for the beautiful song. I think I’ll put it on my activist CD. lol I love ya. I spent too much time responding to another article--NOW- Marion, lol I'm going to rest. lol Rhonda Erwin 2010-05-28T20:07:50Z Susie Shields comment-28526 2010-05-28T19:00:24Z 2010-05-28T19:00:24Z LOOOVE that song! Great article Marion. Our urban forest is impressive- especially when you travel to other cities that look bleak and barron by comparison. We are definitely a 'world class tree city' and that's just great with me. Susie Shields 2010-05-28T19:00:24Z Marion Millin comment-28474 2010-05-28T04:52:55Z 2010-05-28T04:52:55Z enjoy your break. got one more for ya: Sometimes I'm right, but I can be wrong My own beliefs are in my song The butcher, the baker, the drummer and then Makes no difference what group I'm in I am everyday people Yeah, yeah There is a blue one who can't accept the green one For living with a fat one trying to be a skinny one Different strokes for different folks And so on, and so on and scooby-dooby-doo Ooh, sha, sha We got to live together I am no better, and neither are you We are the same, whatever we do You love me, you hate me, you know me and then You can't figure out the bag I'm in I am everyday people Yeah, yeah There is a long hair that doesn't like the short hair For being such a rich one that will not help the poor one Different strokes for different folks And so on and so on and scooby-dooby-doo Ooh, sha, sha We got to live together There is a yellow one that won't accept the black one That won't accept the red one that won't accept the white one Different strokes for different folks And so on, and so on and scooby-dooby-doo Ooh, sha, sha I am everyday people Marion Millin 2010-05-28T04:52:55Z Rhonda Erwin comment-28472 2010-05-28T04:48:27Z 2010-05-28T04:48:27Z I smiled when I read the city info on the city charter! lol Thank you I'm taking a day or so to rest- I'm drained. lol You have inspired me both educationally and personally. Give a man a fish he can eat for a day; teach him how to fish he can eat for a lifetime. I'm learning to be a better activist. Thank you and until next time Love, Peace and Happiness as we ride this SOUL (searching) train. lol. Rhonda Erwin 2010-05-28T04:48:27Z Marion Millin comment-28463 2010-05-28T03:12:54Z 2010-05-28T03:12:54Z Thank you for pointing out the comment about the City Charter! To be clear: The article was edited from "City of Sacramento Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2005 - 2010," to accompany photos and link to Dale Kooyman's article (with permission) on tree vandalization, as requested by SacPress. http://www.sacramentopress.com/headline/27950/Tree_Vandalism City of Sacramento Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2005 - 2010 
http://www.cityofsacramento.org/parksandrecreation/masterplan/pdf/mp3-a-appendcs-a-c.pdf Marion Millin 2010-05-28T03:12:54Z Rhonda Erwin comment-28450 2010-05-28T01:50:52Z 2010-05-28T01:50:52Z Yes, the spirit does move in mysterious ways!! lol Thank you for writing this article. I knew Sacramento was considered, "The City of Trees"; I've often referenced Sacramento as the City of Trees but I never knew why we’re referred to as The City of Trees. The first time my son in law visited Sac he was shocked at all the trees. He’s from New Jersey and the first thing he noticed and commented on were the trees. (The second was seeing so many different ethnic groups living within my neighborhood. ) He said New Jersey lacks trees and diversity. I’m proud to live in Sac. I appreciate the entire article: You have to know I love this: " It is indeed ironic that the founding charter of the City of Sacramento was developed under the shade of a tree. Developing a lush and healthy Urban Forest was one of the key instruments in making Sacramento a healthy and vibrant community." WOW Heck, it is indeed ironic, a new Charter was/ is being developed under the shade of deceit. Taking us away from a lush and healthy community. Some leaves have fallen, some branches have broken, some cut to the stomps; but the ROOT of the Trees still stand -- we are a vibrant community that engages in dialog to save Sacramento - The City of Trees. You're article is great (and not just the part that I picked and pulled out--lol) Rhonda Erwin 2010-05-28T01:50:52Z Marion Millin comment-28410 2010-05-27T22:23:30Z 2010-05-27T22:23:30Z interesting timing, eh? spirit moves in mysterious ways. Marion Millin 2010-05-27T22:23:30Z Rhonda Erwin comment-28401 2010-05-27T20:59:55Z 2010-05-27T20:59:55Z Wow, I just posted a comment to you as an article and saw you wrote an article. I have to read it when I return from taking my son to a job orientation. I can't wait to read this. Much respect--Rhonda Rhonda Erwin 2010-05-27T20:59:55Z bbbbmer comment-26624 2010-05-10T17:45:12Z 2010-05-10T17:45:12Z "Rumors of fresh breezes"... Not until KJ and any of his suckups present or pending are no longer on council... Til then, it'll be the same old hot air and foul wind.... bbbbmer 2010-05-10T17:45:12Z Marion Millin comment-26386 2010-05-06T11:57:48Z 2010-05-06T11:57:48Z Mr. Leon, The Identiity project (for "clusters," not all of Midtown) is part of the RHI action plan, which was placed on hold. Or at least the community task force meetings were. Did it not occur to any of you to include in the "branding" process, any of the neighborhood representatives who participated in RHI? Here's the point that escapes you: the onus was on YOU and MBA to contact those who represent the community - including the Midtown Neighborhood Association -- or at least someone known in the extensive network, if Mr. Kerth is going to claim in the media that you "reached out to the community." Especially if MBA is presuming to "brand" Midtown. Marion Millin 2010-05-06T11:57:48Z TLeon comment-26372 2010-05-05T21:44:29Z 2010-05-05T21:44:29Z Marion. My explanation does not contridict anything that the RHI process is trying to accomplish. I have just decided that you just don't get it or don't want to, either way I won't spend the time going back and forth in this venue. If you want to have conversation about the MBA Marketing and Branding project, my offer still stands that you can contact me to discuss. tleon@cadanet.org or 323-1272. TLeon 2010-05-05T21:44:29Z Marion Millin comment-26239 2010-05-05T05:05:59Z 2010-05-05T05:05:59Z The number of thumbsdown to these comments is really encouraging. I urge all of you who think you know better or could do better to step up and attend these meetings, devote your time, do the work, make the commitment to your community and its future. Thank you for putting your money where your (silent) mouth is -- or your time where your :thumbsdown: is. The more community members participating, the better. The RHI process has potential to represent the whole community, if you step up. It has the potential to be a sham, if you don't. For those who already embrace the logo/slogan and swallow the whole concept of "branding" Midtown, please note that the RHI plan recommends standardization and consolidation that is contrary to what "we all love Midtown" for; contradicts what Todd Leon explains regarding the logo and current nature of Midtown: "... the logo and slogan is intended to abstractly represent the diverse, creative, and independent spirit of Midtown ... this is a home to free thinkers and vibrant souls ... You "go your own way..." That is the brand of Midtown. Eclectic. Hip. Vibrant." Contacts and more info: http://mbasac.com/midtownbusinessassociation/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=17&Itemid=2 Aja Uranga-Foster, Midtown Business Association tel 916.442.1500 : fax 916.442.1535 mba@mbasac.com : www.mbasac.com http://www.rhiweb.org/ http://rhiservices.org/ http://rhiresource.org/ Allison Harnden, Vice President Allison@RHIweb.org Phone: 831.325.4426 Hospitality Institute Sacramento Roundtable ACTION PLAN (MBA will have the whole plan available) The following are the Action Steps recommended and supported by the remainder of the document. I. Attract Business and Patron Variety Attracting a broader mix of businesses with more variety of socializing options can attract a wider age range and diversity of Midtown users, the presence of which tends to organically impose social controls on rowdy behavior. Streamlining the process of opening a business and clarifying rules, regulations and communicating expectations of the community are requisite first steps. IV. Build Capacity for Hospitality Excellence Independent hospitality businesses require hard work and long hours. It is common in hospitality zones for such businesses to operate in isolation. A trend is growing nationwide for nightlife businesses to work in concert to improve their bottom line, operations, relations with compliance agencies and neighbors, as well as the customer experience. In Sacramento, there is a need for nighttime businesses to unite, partner and promote as one industry. Shared training will assure that consumers experience a common standard of hospitality excellence wherever they dine, drink or play in Midtown. Safety and Hospitality partnering to identify tools and strategies will not only improve standards for safety, but improve communication. 1. Unite Hospitality Businesses a. Association: There is a need for hospitality businesses to see themselves as a professional industry rather than individual businesses. Strive to meet as a group to identify areas for potential collaboration. Benefits include discounts on products, risk management and insurance, political advocacy, and shared costs of training, marketing and security services. b. Placemaking: The scattered locations of nighttime businesses are both a challenge and an opportunity. The numerous nighttime business clusters lend themselves to destination branding. -Work to identify individual brands and names for clusters, then work as a coop to market them both individually and collectively as destinations. -Identify niche markets and unique ways to group and promote Midtown businesses besides location, including organic, vegetarian, bike-friendly, green business, etc. Systems for Providing Feedback and Lodging Complaints: - Current approaches include: emails directed to city council members, MBA, the police department; letters in the newspaper; and online blogs. A 311 number exists, but is not used as frequently as other communication mediums. Some neighborhood groups organize responses to particular issues, but feedback is generally submitted on an individual basis. - Noise complaints are directed to code enforcement, city council and the police department’s dispatch. - A system that notifies of business opening was used in the past to jumpstart dialogue between residents and businesses and to troubleshoot potential issues. However, there is no longer a process for early notification for business opening, or for special events held at businesses. - No central system for lodging complaints or providing feedback to the city currently exists. Thus, there is no formal public tracking of complaints or process for providing updates on progress in addressing issues. Marion Millin 2010-05-05T05:05:59Z Marion Millin comment-26249 2010-05-04T23:54:40Z 2010-05-04T23:54:40Z Mr. Rich, the projects you term "progressive" have all excluded the public and or violated regulations intended to protect the public interest. That's not progressive - that's regressive. It's not consistent with the lip service given to sustainability. You're about twenty five years too late with your admonition "If we come to our senses and rein in suburban sprawl, downtown and midtown densities will be MUCH higher in the coming decades." Yes, "reining in suburban sprawl," was the idea twenty five years ago, BEFORE Laguna and Natomas developers broke promises and delivered sprawl. The tradition of permit-less development and culture of blatant violations of various jurisdictional codes -- sealed in the agland antics of those developers -- has continued since then. That tradition set its sites on Midtown; arrived with a heavy boot and untouchable attitudes, with chainsaws running carried by gangs of men running while they illegally cut down our trees; with the same cast of characters and/or their progeny and proteges. With a disconnect from Midtown, its history, culture and residents -- that's what this discussion is about. Your motto on SP: "Quality matters, history matters, aspirations matter." Does the law matter? Does integrity matter? Does public policy and process matter?" Marion Millin 2010-05-04T23:54:40Z Marion Millin comment-26174 2010-05-04T06:54:40Z 2010-05-04T06:54:40Z Todd Leon is on the MBA Board and works for CADA. Council Member Cohn (and candidate Eldredge) and Supervisor Dickinson are on the MBA Board andn work for us .... I echoed your comment in that "Yes, the numbers and who you actually contacted are significant." The question the community had was "what does he mean by "community"?" Who did they "reach out to"? As you say "The RHI process would have been an excellent group to include. Neither was there a mention of your marketing efforts at the Neighborhood Advisory Group --another excellent source.to find residents' opinion." Marion Millin 2010-05-04T06:54:40Z Marion Millin comment-26106 2010-05-04T06:48:22Z 2010-05-04T06:48:22Z You're the one who sounds bitter, "Zen." Maybe just misinformed. Please read the above reply and the linked Biz Journal article, if you haven't already. If there were "no intentions of trying to find middle ground with these folks," we would not have been at the RHI and HZA meetings. You are welcome to contact MBA to join one of the three task force groups meeting this month. This piece was written not about the design of the logo primarily, but about the timing and participation of the process used by MBA, during a time that the HZA meetings were suspended. MBA sent the message again -- unwittingly or not -- that business and marketing plans include "visitors" and exclude residents. This contradicts the RHI process and conflicts with several topics and specific goals in the RHI consultant's report. Edit: And "Zen" it's ironic you used the word "bitter." I met someone yesterday who says they no longer go to their longtime favorite cafe, recently taken over by new owners for several reasons: BBQ meat in the dumpster attracting flies, flies inside, unsanitary conditions, pastry racks exposed at the level of dogs and children, plexiglas enclosures outside and the coffee. "The have snotty people talking about all kinds of beans but they all just taste BITTER to me.' Part of the basic difference in business attitudes and how customers are treated: do we want rude service and inconsistent product, bitter coffee with a steaming foam of pretentiousness on top? Or do we want welcoming owner/operators with consistently excellent product and service, sans sneering attitude? The latter attracts visitors, neighbors, tourists, regulars, business folks, a varied clientele from next door and next continent. The previous repels them. Despite the hype. Marion Millin 2010-05-04T06:48:22Z Marion Millin comment-26167 2010-05-04T00:51:26Z 2010-05-04T00:51:26Z Todd, “It kept coming up that people come to midtown for different reasons,” said Rob Kerth, executive director of the business association. “They come to visit a friend, to see art, to have a great meal. It’s the same midtown, but everyone has a different reason to visit.” No mention of people living here. No mention of residents supporting businesses. Still focused on "bringing people downtown" as if the people here are non-existent. Todd, please understand that the timing of the announcement, combined with the Business Journal quotes from Rob Kerth, plus the logo/slogan, made the MBA still seem out of touch. "The process for a new logo started in November, but Kerth said there wasn’t anything the group was happy with until about three weeks ago." This is the exact time frame of the breakdown of the RHI process. MBA unveiled this "branding" the day after the first meeting since October. During that time, the RHI Task Force Action Steps 6 month plan was NOT being implemented. During that time, all the issues and impacts affecting residents (and addressed in the RHI action plan) continued unabated. During that time, an MBA subset of 18th/Capitol businesses added another weekly live music event to the already over-impacted neighborhood, with no contact with RHI resident task force members or the Midtown Neighborhood Association. During that time, MBA developed a logo/slogan -- "Identity" is one of the components of the RHI report -- with so-called "outreach to the community," with no contact with RHI resident task force members or the Midtown Neighborhood Association. Yes, the numbers and who you actually contacted are significant. During that time, the quieter winter months passed. Now the implementation of a 6 month action plan starts when the Midtown party-zone season has already begun. See, that's what was really jarring about Kerth's quote. If you had a focus group, call it that. Please don't claim that you "reached out to the community." After all the years of derogatory misrepresentations toward the community and neighborhood associations that the MBA, spokesman Kerth and some businesses have perpetuated in the media; after the delay in the RHI plan and action steps; after finally sitting down again with the MBA in good faith on Tuesday, the timing and the quotes -- and the ambiguous logo -- made MBA appear still estranged from residential Midtown. Marion Millin 2010-05-04T00:51:26Z mtsacramento comment-26164 2010-05-03T23:24:46Z 2010-05-03T23:24:46Z How has midtown survived this long without a logo & some "branding"? It boggles the mind! mtsacramento 2010-05-03T23:24:46Z