Jan 15, 1999
During the 1998 legislative session, the legislature passed legislation to place a ban on snowmobile studs. The idea passed fairly easily through the process. Those who consider themselves to be fiscally responsible argued for the cost-savings for counties who needed...
Jan 11, 1999
There is a new style of lobbying that is starting to take hold in our nation’s capitol. Small organizations and associations are figuring out that using the Internet and e-mail is a cost-effective way to convey their message to elected officials. In a recent...
Jan 11, 1999
To some, the announcement of US Sen Paul Wellstone’s (D-MN) decision not to seek the Democratic nomination in 2000 came as a serious let down. To others it came as a relief. The former Carleton professor has not made clear his plans for life after public...
Jan 11, 1999
The trickling out of commissioner appointments carries it own level of intrigue. The close lips of the Ventura transition team are a credit to the people involved in the process. Of course should anyone be interested in leaking any information we will take it here...
Jan 11, 1999
Did Rep. Sheri Broecker (R-53B, Vadnais Heights) get special treatment for shoplifting at a grocery store? Did Speaker Steve Sviggum (R-28B, Kenyon) use his influence to protect one of his members? Did Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher (R) come to aid of a fellow...
Jan 11, 1999
There has been talk in many DFL circles about the need for a think tank to create a voice external to the political process like that of Progressive Policy Institute which is closely tied to the Democratic Leadership Council. The need is even more evident in light of...
Jan 11, 1999
The scenario was set hold an endorsing convention on a Sunday, just prior to the first Vikings play-off game. The field of candidates were in place Greg Abbott, Grant Harrell, Bill Harper, Chuck O’Connor, Mark Oyaas, and Gail Dorfman. The talk around town was...
Jan 11, 1999
There is a new way of deciding what is important for deciding legislative initiatives, that is personal experience. To the traditional press and legislators, Governor Jesse Ventura’s (IP-MN) approach to governance may seem self-serving, to others it seem...
Jan 11, 1999
Minnesota is the test market for many new board games prior to their entrance in the general marketplace. Trivial Pursuit became a standard Christmas gift here better than a year before the rest of the nation started to focus on inane and disjointed facts. Gaming may...
Jan 6, 1999
With the legislative session starting yesterday and the inauguration over the process of governing has begun. Last week Governor Jesse Ventura (IP) sent out a letter to the 20 department heads saying in effect your services have been appreciated please select a...
