Appleton launches diversity project

A worthwhile project that will help people come together through their differences. As the article states, the initiative is "based on a popular program from Oregon, the 'Walk A Mile' project will tackle immigration, homelessness, domestic violence, veterans issues and mental health over the course of 2012."

Also worth reading is the second section of the article, which returns to the domestic partner benefits program. Since no city employee has yet to sign up for the benefit, the cost to the city has been, in fact, zero. I assume this means that those opponents to the program who argued, loudly, that their stance was purely a fiscal one will immediately issue retractions.

Diversity Project

Kanga is Tops!

Mobile Cuisine is holding a contest for the Rookie of the Year Mobile Food Truck. Appleton's very own Kangaroostaurant is right in the running. Please do vote for them, and if you haven't eaten there, do go visit! The food is fantastic, and Jay & Kelly are wonderful people. Kudos to them, and what they clearly mean to Appleton (they are competing with trucks from some pretty big cities).

Food Truck Rookie of the Year

City Notes, Part 2: Fairness and Leadership

In the second part of the P-C article, Alderperson Teege Metille discussed the battle--and it was one--to include domestic partner benefits for city employees, and his recent radio interview. I was present at most of these council meetings and spoke on behalf of the DPB program and the Diversity Coordinator position. I want to express my gratitude and appreciation for the stalwart and unwavering leadership demonstrated by several council members and Mayor Hanna. They were and are powerful and consistent voices for fairness. The chorus of community voices who spoke with dignity, grace, and eloquence was moving.

City Notes

City Notes, Part 1: Community Safety Net

There will be a chance for the public to speak about the change in policy for the distribution of Appleton's federal community development block grant award, an award that has decreased significantly over the last decade. Last month, the Council--in a somewhat contentious meeting--agreed to a new distribution of funds, in which more than 80% of the grant money would be sent to city programs. I think this was a necessary solution, particularly the importance given to the Appleton Housing Authority. I strongly recommend people speak up tomorrow.

City Notes

Post Crescent Article on Women in Office

This is an important and unfortunate disparity that needs to be remedied, and one of the reasons I'm running for common council:

http://www.postcrescent.com/article/20120105/APC0101/201050481

Happy New Year!

A very happy New Year to everyone!  We begin campaigning in earnest this week.  Yard signs are popping up in town, and I'll be trying to get to as many doors as I can in the coming weeks.  I would love to hear what is important to you, and what your vision for the district and the city is!