South County Epitaph-The Last Word in Local News

Does Chisago County Really Need Another Anonymous Blog?

2011-04-26T18:31:00.005-05:00

Does Chisago County Really Need Another Anonymous Blog?
Who Writes Fiefdompolitics.com?
And Does Anybody Really Care?

Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Those who write from cowardly anonymity, generally defend the practice because several of our founding fathers used a fictitious name in writing “The Federalist Papers” which debated, among other things, whether a “Bill of Rights, i.e., Freedom of Speech” was even a necessary addition to the Constitution.

At the time of publication, the authorship of the articles was a closely guarded secret, though astute observers guessed that Hamilton, Madison, and Jay were the likely authors. Following Hamilton's death in 1804, a list that he drew up became public; it claimed fully two-thirds of the essays for Hamilton, including some that seemed more likely the work of Madison.

The scholarly detective work of Douglass Adair in 1944 postulated the following authorship, corroborated in 1964 by a computer analysis of the text, ultimately determined Alexander Hamilton, James Madison and John Jay used the pseudonym "Publius" to author “The Federalist Papers” which led to ratification of our constitution and constitutionally protected freedom of speech.

Free speech was a relatively new concept in 1776.

235 years later, we are the product of those who fought and died to protect the freedoms now taken for granted; leaving the motives of those who write from cowardly anonymity in today’s world, open to speculation.

Following in the anonymous footsteps of FishLakeKarpa whose only real purpose appears to be attacking Fish Lake Supervisor Bob Carter, Fiefdom Politics’ only real purpose seems to be bashing Chisago County District 4 Commissioner Ben Montzka.

While the unknown author steadfastly maintains that District 5 is getting “bleeped” over by Montzka and his “band of three,” Commissioners Rick Greene, Lora Walker and George McMahon, she provides little proof that the residents of District 5 are being adversely affected by anyone other than Commissioner Robinson.

The anonymous author of Fiefdom Politics is apparently female, which has led to speculation that Johanna Puelston of the Chisago Isanti Star, Mary Helen Swanson of The North Branch Post Review or Denise Martin of the Chisago County Press might be blogging “on the side.”

Without doubt, Johanna is the best professional writer covering Chisago County. She is also the best looking. Johanna is married to Chisago County Sheriff’s Deputy Kyle Puelston, who has been publicly lambasted by Commissioner Mike Robinson and is rumored to be a candidate to replace sitting District 5 Commissioner Mike Robinson in 2012.

While this puts Johanna in the right District and Robinson is largely ignored in the blog, it is highly unlikely she would misspell her husband’s name on her own blog.

Mary Helen is a huge Commissioner Robinson fan. If she were writing, Robinson would be front and center in every article, not the moot point he has become on this Board and his ignored status in Fiefdom Politics.

And it can’t be Denise, due to the fact you can actually understand what the unknown blogger is writing about.

Fiefdom Politics story “Three Beer Lunch” is strikingly similar to an anonymous email I had received on November 28, 2010.

Begin Story
“Dear Jon,
I recently stopped into a bar in Rock Creek (Pine County) and was surprised to see Commissioner Mike Robinson, former State Rep. Loren Jennings, a 5th District Planning Commissioner and former Planning Commissioner/Fish Lake Township Supervisor Tim O'Keefe sitting together at a table.
While I was there, I overheard a conversation in regards to the funding of Mr. O'Keefe's lawsuit against Fish Lake Township. From the conversation, it was quite clear to me that Loren Jennings and the 5th District Planning Commissioner were willing to spend a great deal of money to help fund Mr. O'Keefe's lawsuit in order to keep Mike Robinson's 5th District Commissioner seat safe from Bob Carter.
After doing some research into Mr. O'Keefe's court case against Fish Lake Township, it appears that Mr. O'Keefe's first attorney, Travis Stottler, resigned from the case for lack of payment. It also appears that Mr. O'Keefe has now retained a high-powered law firm from the cities; Barna, Guse and Steffen.
The question is, where did Mr. O'Keefe suddenly come up with the kind of money it takes to retain a high-powered firm like Barna, Guse and Steffen?
After having a conversation with Bob Cupit about Mr. O'Keefe's lawsuit, Mr. Cupit stated that during the discovery process Mr. O'Keefe claimed that part of his damages included the loss of his pickup truck due to paying his attorney's fees instead of his pickup truck payments.
After reviewing the court file, I found this to be true. Upon further research, it appears that Mr. O'Keefe not only could not afford to pay his first attorney, but make his pickup payments or pay his property taxes, either. The question still remains; where is Mr. O'Keefe getting the money to retain a high-powered law firm like
Barna, Guse and Steffen?
The answer is Mike Robinson's childhood friends; Loren Jennings, part owner of East Central Sanitation, and a farmer from Rush City. All this in pursuit of protecting Mike Robinson's 5th District Commissioner seat!
Check out the facts for yourself, but please help Bob Carter and Bob Cupit save their good names and reputations from Malfeasant Mike! End Story"

To which I replied.

I suggested a face to face meeting, to which she responded:

Begin Quote "Dear Jon, After having time to think this over, I have to live in Rush City. I am scared of those four powerful people and don't want to risk my personal safety. Thanks for the invite to meet, but I will have to pass. Take care. truth.plus.justice@gmail.com--Truth and Justice End Quote”

The following anonymous story is written by peasantinfiefdom.

It is a clever story, interweaving fact and fiction.

“Begin Story: Three Beer Lunch

Small world it is. At lunch with a group of people today, the subject of Fiefdompolitics.com came up. This is surprising because no one at the lunch knew that I am the blogger for Fiefdompolitics. (It would be even more surprising if anyone had ever heard of fiefdompolitics.com much less known who wrote it. This part is fiction)

I will also say it is very hard listening to yourself being bashed (fact)

and no one knows that they are bashing you directly. (fiction)

I also think I held my composure just fine and no one was any of the wiser that the person being bashed was in fact “enjoying” (actually I was miserable) lunch with them. (This part is fiction)

This was a business networking lunch. None of us really knew each other. It was a mixed group of political opinions on a national level. I don’t talk about national politics because you will never change the other person’s opinion and suddenly it just becomes people talking over people and really what does that accomplish? (This part may be fact)

Rarely, and this may be the only time…and only because I’m still emotional from today…will I give my opinion on things besides local politics. I’ll come right out and say it. I don’t like it when people think they know what God is thinking. Which is how the conversation started at lunch today that led me to a couple stiff martinis when I got home (in addition to the beers at lunch). (This part may be fact)

So this person was discussing “wedge issues,” or “social issues,” or whatever you want to call things that you’ll never get people to agree on. (This part may be fact)

Apparently this person has a direct line with God because this person knew what God thought was best. Somewhere in the ranting, I learned our country needed to be run by people like this person because, well…they know God better than the rest. (This part may be fact, but would never be spoken by a Baptist woman)

The rest of us at lunch really weren’t in the mood to state our opinions and decided to let “the Voice of God” (which is how I will refer to this person), ramble on. (This part may be fact)

I had enough. I had to speak up. I made the comment that all that energy should be put toward worrying about what it happening at a local level; because I said God doesn’t determine our property taxes. (This part may be fact)

Even though I don’t have that same direct line, I felt pretty comfortable stating this. That’s when (sorry the pun) all hell broke loose. At least it felt like hell to me. (This part may be fact)

The Voice of God asked another member of lunch (not speaking to me anymore) if they had ever read the blog that bashes Chisago County and the commissioners. No one had. This didn’t surprise me and I’m not too worried that they will be. (This part is fiction)

Voice of God doesn’t like this blog. Voice of God, yes you guessed it…knows a lot of people that go to Church with Ben Montzka and tells us (at lunch) (This part is fiction, people like "Voice" would be aligned with Bob Gustafson, not Montzka)

he’s a real nice guy and he sings really well at Church. (This part is fact, Ben is a BINO, Baptist In Name Only, mostly he goes to church for the singing not the "fire and Brimstone")

I was pretty certain that Voice felt that God had told her that people who drink alcohol are sinners. (This part may be fact)

So, just to piss off Voice, I ordered a beer. While drinking my beer, (This part may be fact)

I asked Voice how involved in the community Voice was. Pay attention to commission meetings? Know what’s going on in the budget? Understand anything about LGA? Pay attention to council meetings? (This part is fiction)

Well, yes Voice was very active, because just last year they were going to put a fossil fuel power plant in Chisago County and power lines were going to run through their yard. So Voice went to commission meetings and through their activism they stopped the Fossil Fuel Power Plant. (This part is fiction)

(Voice was a little upset with Ben then because Ben was a power plan proponent.) (This part is fiction)

Two beers now. (This part may be fact)

First, I told Voice, I don’t think the Fossil Fuel thing is off the table. Voice is certain it is. I also told Voice, that there are a lot of things that can reduce your property value besides power lines running through it. (This part is fiction)

I went on that President Obama or Speaker Boehner don’t yield nearly the power over Voice that five commissioners do (This part may be fact)

(well actually 4, because Ben and his Band of Three don’t want to believe Chisago County has a District 5). (This part may is fiction)

Voice went back to attacking the blog. On and on about the blog’s negativity…nothing good to say….blah blah blah. I could take all this. (This part is fiction)

It’s just when Voice said the blogger didn’t know how to write, (This part is fiction)

that I ordered a third beer. Don’t worry. I didn’t drive home. (This part may be fact)

Now you may wonder, because it seems, I am giving away my identity to someone who reads this blog. (This part is fiction)

First, I don’t think Voice has read it more than once and that was way back when. (This part is fiction)

Also Voice liked to either argue or talk about Voice. (This part may be fact)

Thus, Voice doesn’t know my name and actually doesn’t know a thing about me. (This is fact)

But you met me today Voice. Had you taken two minutes to listen to anyone else talk; you might have found out who I am. (This part is fiction)

Voice, if you’re reading this, I do care about Chisago County. (This is fact)

I care about property values and property taxes. I care about the standard of living. (This part is fact)

Chisago County is beautiful and has some of the nicest people in the world. (This part is fact)

It’s Ben and his Band of Three I bash. (This part is fact)

And just because a person goes to church and has a good choir voice, does not make them a good person. (This part is fact)

In fact, from all the e-mails I’ve received about Ben…it makes him a hypocrite.” (This part is fiction) End Story

While some of this story may be based upon actual events, perhaps an actual luncheon with the girls, it has been distorted toward the author’s goal of “bashing” Ben (Commissioner Montzka).

From other articles posted at fiefdompolitics.com, the author’s office is downtown. As the “Three Beer Lunch” was a business luncheon, one would assume it would be near her business, downtown, not in Chisago County

The statistical probability that “Voice” was an actual person from Chisago County, knew of the issues here or knew Commissioner Montzka could sing are astronomically low.

More likely "Voice" is the anonymous author's manifestation of her own perception of Commissioner Lora Walker as "Voice" has views similar to Walker's concerning the power plant.

It is my humble belief that truth.plus.justice@gmail.com and peasantinfiefdom are one in the same person.

She is probably C.C. Inquirer as well. C.C. is a contributor to fiefdompolitics.com and the author of the following story, also sent to me anonymously.

Start Story "From: C. C. Enquirier
Subject: Sexual Harassment in Chisago County
To: "Jon"
Date: Saturday, September 5, 2009, 8:01 PM
Hello Jon,

As the author of the South County Epitaph, could you confirm or find out if there is any validity to the following story?

Per Commissioners Ben Montzka and Rick Greene, County Administator John Moosey is attempting to hush and cover up the sexual advancements of County Commissioner George McMahon upon a county employee.

Would you please investigate and provide a story on your South County Epitaph blog?

Thank you for your care and concern for Chisago County.

C. C." End Story

Though I don’t have the forensic capabilities for a computer analysis of the three texts, I am certain these three cleverly written stories have the same anonymous author using different pseudonyms.

A writer, as it were, playing all the parts of her own fantasy. Either multi talented, multi delusional or affected with multiple personality disorder.

More compelling is why the skulduggery? We have such a wonderful country with freedom of speech bought and paid by our forefathers, why cower in anonymity?

Perhaps, people in glass houses don't throw stones, perhaps the answers lie in the words written by my anonymous counterpart.

But, does anyone really care?

My anonymous friend is a good writer. A good writer can change the world.

Chisago County won’t be fixed with a new jail. However, it can be fixed with compassion and common sense. Our efforts to build a better government can “snowball” across Minnesota if we choose to set the example right here in Chisago County. More good writers are needed for the cause.

Sincerely, The Jack Ass from Wisconsin

Spring Rush City Edition is Ready

2011-04-23T12:31:00.003-05:00

The Last Word in Local News, Spring, 2011
POSTAL PATRON
Commissioner Robinson
Admits to Lying about Phone Records!
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

The 2008 Election brought the defeat of Commissioners Bob Gustafson and Lynn Schultz, stalwart allies of Commissioner Robinson. Together, they had ruled Chisago County for four long years. Of this troika, only Robinson kept his job, though he is reduced to relatively moot point on the current Board. “Odd man out,” as it were.
Mike rarely takes responsibility for his own actions and blames his loss of power on Commissioners Lora Walker and Ben Montzka who Mike believes are responsible for the defeat of his very close friend, Lynn Schultz.
Ever since the election, Robinson has maintained and has stated publically that he is in possession of Ben Montzka’s phone records. Records that will supposedly prove Robinson’s conspiracy theory.
Obtaining phone records, by law requires a court order, leaving many to doubt the veracity of Robinson’s oft stated claim.
Ben Montzka is an Attorney. As such, his phone calls with clients are confidential and privileged. After nearly two years of listening to Robinson’s claim, Montzka was forced act in the best interest of his clients.
In a Complaint filed on August 11, 2010 Montzka requested the Sheriff’s Department investigate claims made by Robinson at 31325 Oasis Road in Center City in the presence of Commissioner Rick Green and others during a meeting at the County Maintenance Building.
According to Initial Complaint Report, Sergeant Armistead investigated the matter and was informed by Montzka’s land line telephone carrier “that they do not see anything in their records that indicated anybody had requested this information.”
Montzka’s cell phone provider was not so forthcoming, requiring a court order to see if his (Montzka’s) phone records had been accessed.
Predictably (due to Robinson’s close association with County Attorney Janet Reiter) the County Attorney’s Office stonewalled Sergeant Armistead’s efforts to confirm or deny the validity of Robinson’s claim, leading to speculation that former Sheriff Todd (J. Edgar) Rivard may have supplied the phone records to Robinson. So,

Which Lie is the Real Lie?

In a telephone interview with Commissioner Robinson, Armistead reports “that he (Robinson) made a comment about phone records showing that he (Montzka) has been in contact with Laura (Lora Walker).”
Later in the report, Armistead states: “Robinson admitted to me that he (Robinson) had only said that (about the phone records) basically to get a rise out of Bennett Montzka”.
Apparently, “getting a rise” out of Commissioner Walker requires different tactics.
According to a Forest Lake Police report dated November 20, 2007 Robinson confronted Lora Walker at Cub Foods in Forest Lake and allegedly stated that he would harm her and her family.
Presumably, private citizen Lora (not a Commissioner at that time) Walker was shopping for her family’s Thanksgiving Dinner. Robinson, not pushing a shopping cart was clearly there to harass Walker, perhaps to intimidate her from running against Lynn Schultz in 2008.
Ultimately, Walker showed her grit, guts and determination by running against and defeating Shultz in the 2008 General Election and now sits across the table from Robinson at every Board meeting.
It is difficult to fathom how Robinson could have known Walker was going to be at Cub at that particular point in time.
Did Robinson lurk about the Cub store for days on end, waiting for his chance to accost Walker?
Shultz is known to shop at Cub and could have relayed that information to Robinson, but the exact time would be difficult for the best of stalkers to pin down.
This question has been posed to Robinson. Robinson’s continued silence leads to speculation that others were involved.

It’s not hard to see why Robinson is disliked by other Board members.

Robinson’s bullying and issuing of terroristic threats to other members of the Board have created an atmosphere of tension and animosity.
After the incident at the County maintenance facility, Robinson’s committee assignments requiring a second commissioner were cancelled.
No one wants to be in the same room with a constantly overbearing, confrontational and belligerent counterpart. No one is going to knuckle under to Mike Robinson.
This situation is not beneficial to the citizens of District 5.
Clearly, Commissioner Mike Robinson is out of control and his behavior can no longer be tolerated.
Of course, Commissioner Robinson will tell you what you have just read is a lie and will likely tell you Commissioners Walker and Montzka filed false police reports.

I Would Lie to You for your Vote, and that is the Truth!

Who Would Jesus Jail?
The First of Many Parts
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

The Scriptures are largely silent, but one can deduce from Jesus’ Ministry to the poor, the weak, the powerless and the infirmed, that the lower classes would probably not have been His first choice to throw in jail.
In Chisago County, these dregs of society are collectively known as “Poor White Trash” or PWT’s of which I am proud to be a card carrying member.
Nationwide, Blacks are the most jailed class of American.
One out of every three black males born today will spend time in jail or prison and currently one out of eight black men in their twenties are in jail.
Can’t really say what Jesus may have thought about this, but when I pass this statistic to most folks in these parts, the answer is the same, “Is that all? I figured there would be a lot more than that!” As if to say, “We would be somehow safer with more non-violent people in jail.”
Having lived in the Deep South for 25 years or so, I have probably become acquainted with more Black men than most Minnesotans will, say 40 or 50 guys.
Statistically, according to the Prison Industrial Complex, six of these guys should have been evil. I have not found that to be the case. Blacks are just normal folks like the rest of us.
A social worker friend brings up an interesting point. Blacks are more likely to be poor and since poor people occupy most jail space, it may not be racial at all.
Kinda makes me feel all warm and fuzzy knowing that poverty keeps our jails full.
This, of course raises the logical questions?
Who wants these poor white muthas in jail and is it really cost effective to jail non-violent poor people?
Minnesota has traditionally passed the cost of jailing to the individual counties, preferring that poor people be held locally, at the expense of local property owners rather than wealthy individuals and corporations as is done by most states.
The State of Minnesota, passing unfunded mandates and criminal law, uses incarceration rates and quotas established by the Prison Industrial Complex to jail Blacks and poor people while passing the financial burden to local property owners.
Nationwide, most states spend an average of 6.89% of the state budget on prisons and jails. The State of Minnesota spends only 2.70%. However, when the cost to the Counties is factored in, the total cost exceeds 9% of the State Budget, more than most states.
In other words, most states pay their dues to the Prison Industrial Complex from State Income and/or Sales Taxes.
In Minnesota, we pay for these excesses with Levy dollars assessed to your home and property.
This maneuver has been quite popular with former Governor Pawlenty. Every time the state budget needed balancing, unfundated mandates were established to pass the financial burden of state operation to local government.
This tactic could be quite beneficial if Pawlenty becomes President.
With one stroke of his pen, he could eliminate the National Debt by assigning that debt (about $30,000) to each man, woman and child in the country and simply say, “Hey, it’s your problem, now. Not mine.”

Throughout history, governments and unscrupulous business persons have profited from the misery of others.

For centuries, European traders amassed great fortunes in the African slave trade. When the British finally abolished slavery in 1840, these traders turned to the lucrative Opium Trade.
Britain and America actually went to war with China to insure wealthy Opium traders could profit from the addiction of millions of Chinese.
This Anglo American induced drug epidemic did not end until the Communist Revolution a hundred years later when the drug addicts were simply executed, taken out and shot.
In today’s world, The Prison Industrial Complex profits from the misery and forced incarceration of millions of non violent Americans.
The Criminal Justice System is big business. Taxpayers shell out a cool $4,000,000 each year for the Chisago County jail.

Most people know the story of Jesus.
Few know of Janet Reiter’s rise to power.

Like many lawyers, County Attorney Janet Reiter was lured into the Prison Industrial Complex at an early age. Her naïve and giddy thoughts of punishing bad guys was an inspiring force. Trouble was there weren’t enough bad guys to go around.
But Janet persevered and finally got a job working as an assistant county attorney in Chisago County.
Despite the drawbacks of working in small rural community with little crime and fewer blacks, Janet was able to exploit the weaknesses of poor people. In time, she was able to get a better job in a larger county where she honed her strengths by prosecuting more poor people who could not defend themselves.
Life moved on in Chisago County without Janet.
Through a fluke in the electoral process, Janet’s predecessor, Katherine Johnson, having no practical experience prosecuting poor white trash was elected as County Attorney.
The jails quickly emptied.
Though Katherine’s ineptitude saved the County several hundred thousand dollars, the Prison Industrial Complex became quite alarmed.
The empty jails had not resulted in the long predicted crime wave.
Katherine was in a real bind. She needed to come up with some criminals’ real quick.
Our Judges didn’t have anything to do and staff was facing layoffs.
It was decided to make criminals out of ordinary citizens. Code enforcement officers were dispatched throughout the land to issue citations for unlicensed dogs, lawns not cut to County specs and other minor infractions.
Unfortunately for Katherine, a Code Enforcement Officer issued a citation to retired Judge Clifford. Judge Clifford is a card carrying member of the Prison Industrial Complex who had been jailing PWT’s when Reiter was still in diapers.
He was pissed, to say the least.
But Katherine was desperate for a conviction and decided to prosecute, anyway.
Judge Clifford flipped out and went about North County pointing out code violations of other residents, forcing Katherine to prosecute all perceived violators.
All was well, the courts filled up. PWT’s were returning to jail and the taxpayers were being fleeced once again.
However, Judge Clifford was still pissed off.
He recruited and reportedly funded Janet’s campaign, leading to Katherine’s defeat in the 2006 Election.
Now, if Janet can jail enough PWT's, Minnesota's Inbred Judicial Selection Process (MIJSP) will probably tap her to be judge one day, allowing her to follow in the footsteps of her mentor, Judge Clifford.
And the cycle will continue, with a select group of lawyers getting rich jailing non violent poor people at the expense of middle class taxpayers.
Jesus is well known for His compassion toward the poor.
I often wonder if He would have compassion for the taxpayers, as well.

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Came on Vacation, Left on Probation
Got Jailed on Violation!
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

As a guest of former Sheriff Todd (J. Edgar) Rivard in February of 2009, I was incarcerated (ostensibly for recycling without a license) at the Chisago County Jail with a carpenter from St. Paul, a resident of Ramsey County.
This man had received a drinking while driving infraction in Chisago County some five years earlier after a fishing expedition on one of our local lakes.
He plead guilty and was sentenced to 180 days in jail and 5 years probation. Thirty days of jail time were served with 150 days "held over his head." He never voluntarily returned to Chisago County.
Several years later, my carpenter friend stopped at the corner bar, chugged three beers and while driving the two blocks home was stopped by police, “blew .008” and was issued a citation for being “barely drunk.”
He paid a fine in Ramsey County and proceeded about his business.
When Chisago County Probation heard of the new infraction, they brought bring him back to serve the remaining 150 days "held over his head."
My friend tried to have this time served in Ramsey County, so he could continue to work and support his family. However because of the Huber (Work Release) fees charged by Chisago County, it became more cost effective for him to spend the 150 days in Chisago County Jail at a cost to taxpayers of some $15,000.
His family went on welfare in Ramsey County.
As I “interviewed” more inmates, it became apparent that the carpenter’s story was not unusual. Most of my fellow inmates were not residents of Chisago County and most were on lengthy jail stays for probation violations occurring outside Chisago County.
Metropolitan Counties view misdemeanors and petty crime differently than County Attorney Janet Reiter and our inbred judges, preferring to get the cash in the form of fines rather than imposing costly jail time.
While the punishment for Fifth Degree possession of a controlled substance in Ramsey County is a payable fine, Chisago County’s inbred judiciary goes for jail time and lengthy probation.
In a typical “Came on Vacation” conviction, the minor perpetrator spends a few days in our jail and returns to the cities, promptly forgets about the probation and remaining jail time hanging “over their head,” being blissfully unaware the Local Prison Industrial Complex is “hell bent” to cram a 40 million dollar jail up the lower extremities of Chisago County taxpayers.
The Prison Industrial Complex cannot sustain itself without repeat offenders. As such, no efforts are made to rehabilitate offenders or address their addiction. Consequently, offenders will abuse again. It is just a matter of time before they get “busted,” pay their fine in the Metro and are returned to Chisago to burden taxpayers locally.
On any given day, we support 150 people behind bars. Our jail has the capacity to house 50 inmates leaving the other 100 jailed in Isanti, Polk, Washington and other surrounding counties at the expense of Chisago County taxpayers.
Basically, County Attorney Janet Reiter in conjunction with our Probation Department, pick up a PWT (Poor White Trash) from Isanti and jail them for a perceived probation violation. Since there is “not enough room at the inn,” we pay Isanti County to incarcerate the PWT for a “crime” committed in Isanti County deemed unworthy of jail time there.

Left unchecked, government will become a self-serving entity onto itself.

Chisago County’s Probation Department is a classic example of governmental inbreeding. Many years ago, the County Board was given a choice whereby the Board could oversee the probation department or turn that responsibility over to the judges.
As an inducement, the State of Minnesota offered to pay one half the salaries of those employed in the probation department. Many years ago, before judicial inbreeding, this may have been a good idea. In today’s reality, we save about $75,000 annually in payroll reimbursement, but jailing out of county probation violators costs taxpayers a cool $2,000,000 a year, $10,000,000 over the past five years.
When questioned about this situation, Chisago County Probation Director, Steve Paquay deflects responsibility toward our local judicially inbred judges who maintain that they are merely “rubber stamping” probation and County Attorney recommendations.
The real question is public safety. Has the $10,000,000 spent jailing out of county probation violators resulted in greater public safety for the residents of Chisago County?
We all want drunks off the road, but we simply cannot afford to jail drunks for the surrounding counties. Perhaps we need to let other counties jail their own Poor White Trash.

Chisago County charges inmates $350 per week in Huber Fees!

Most counties charge about $100 per week in Work Release Fees. Not unexpectedly, Chisago takes in about $20,000 annually in Huber Fees while Isanti, charging $100 per week takes in well over $100,000 a year.
Yep, you guessed it. When Chisago County pays Isanti County to incarcerate an offender, Chisago County Huber rates apply, preventing the inmate from working.
When the fees were established in Chisago County, during a robust economy, they may have made some sense. However, in the current, economic condition, it is just a deterrent to work, whether real or imagined.
The Huber fees collected by Chisago County do not amount to a "hill of beans" over a year’s time, while keeping these people working could save the County in welfare and other areas.
The following is copied from the Minnesota Statutes.

"4. Jail credit shall be awarded at the rate of one day for each day served for time spent in confinement under Huber Law (Minnesota Statutes, section 631.425).

Had my friend from Ramsey County been working; he would have been out 75 days earlier, saving the taxpayers some $7,500. 95% of the people of Chisago County would agree. When possible, nonviolent inmates need to be working and paying taxes, not draining the system of vital resources (money). If we make these resources (money) available to a man as intelligent, educated and dedicated as our current Sheriff, Rick Duncan, I have no doubt we can run the drug dealers out of our county and keep drunk drivers off the road.
I'm not sure we could ask much more from any mortal Sheriff!

Coercion or Free Speech?
Successful Prosecution Sets Dangerous Precedent
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

A legal precedent is set when a Judge makes a decision about a certain legal matter.
Even if this Judge’s decision is to jump from a cliff, the inbred judges that follow in his footsteps will be duty bound to leap from that same cliff.
Sooner or later, someone with enough money and sharp lawyer may be able to get this precedent overturned in Appellate Court, but until then, our inbred judges will continue to jump from the same proverbial cliff.
(Judge McBride showed the lack of branches on his own judiciary family tree when he accepted this deal.)
With unemployment in Chisago County hovering around 10%, one would think Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter would have little trouble finding enough PWT’s (Poor White Trash) to fill the jails.
But Janet is a real trooper for the Prison Industrial Complex and is always seeking new ways to increase jail populations.
As reported by Denise Martin and the Chisago County Press, Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter coerced a coercion related Alford Plea from a Lent man for the grand total of $100 in fines. No reports are available as to the amount of taxpayer dollars spent by Reiter in this “No Contest” conviction.
Minnesota statutes regarding coercion are extremely broad and not usually enforced in this manner, especially when politicians are involved.

Coercion sounds nasty as it is usually related to Coercion of Prostitution,

i.e., a person of authority coercing sexual favors from an underling wanting to keep their job. In this case a politician got pissed at another politician and wrote a letter he wishes he could take back. Janet Reiter used this letter to end this man’s political career with another of her nonsensical, politically motivated prosecutions.
The extreme broadness of this conviction puts freedom of speech at risk in Chisago County. As an example, suppose you were mad at your commissioner, George McMahon for introducing a 2-3% tax increase. Say you went to public forum and told George, “If you pass this tax, I will not vote for you next time and I will tell the world you are a “Tax and Spend Liberal.”
Technically, you have met Reiter’s standard of coercion.
The amount of time you spend in jail for such a statement depends upon the financial loss incurred. Say your single vote cost George the election. George would lose his $30,000 job as commissioner.
Since the amount of damage exceeds $2,500, you could face fines of $20,000 and ten years in prison.
If you had the money to hire a good lawyer, you could “beat the rap,” however, the stigma of being charged with coercion could never be overcome in a small community.
As was the case with the man from Lent, whose standing in the community was lessened, your right of dissent would be compromised, your free speech neutered. (Continued next page)

"The price of apathy towards public affairs is to be ruled by evil men." Plato

In reality, World War II started when the first German citizens were coerced to give up their free speech at the behest of some government bureaucrat.
As such, Reiter’s “Coercion” cannot stand.
The man from Lent’s standing in the community cannot be restored with the return of $100, but the ability to pick and choose who runs for public office cannot be determined by Janet Reiter, her cronies or our inbred judiciary.
We need to reserve that right for “We the People,” not “Us the Government.”

It Takes Three to Tango
Open Meeting Laws Exist for a Reason
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

If you have ever had the misfortune of being prosecuted in Chisago County, the County Attorney probably closed their case by telling the jury, “These laws are for your protection, you must enforce them and return a guilty verdict."
In all too many cases, the laws exist because some politician did not understand the simple fact that anything written can be interpreted to mean most anything Government or some inbred lawyer wants it to mean.
This is not the case with the open meeting laws. Open meeting laws were designed to protect the citizenry from back room deals and shady politics by forcing the decision making of local government leaders into the limelight. Basically, the law states that a quorum of leaders cannot meet without public notice. On a three person board, a quorum exists if any two board members are at the same place at the same time. Hence, an accidental meeting at a coffee shop could technically violate open meeting laws.
The County Board of Commissioners is a five person panel, so the quorum is three which allows any two Commissioners to communicate regarding a specific matter.
Open meeting laws prohibit serial meetings. While Commissioner “A” can speak of a single matter to Commissioner “B”, “B” cannot speak of this same matter to Commissioner “C” without violating the open meeting law.
About this time, you are probably asking yourself, “How the “bleep” do they ever get anything done?”
Dysfunctional as it sounds, the law seeks to force the debate of any given issue into the public eye. Problem is commissioners are reluctant to speak openly on some issues, giving rise to backroom negotiations and deal making by Commissioners seeking to exercise or solidify more than their fair share of power.
When longtime County Administrator John Moosey announced he was leaving Chisago for a similar job in Alaska, many in Government and the community panicked.
County Board Chair Lora Walker’s phone rang off the hook.
No one in Chisago County is more qualified to hire the new administrator than Lora Walker.
As such, there was no panic on Lora’s part, just confident determination to set up a process that would insure Moosey was replaced with the best possible candidate, while addressing the concerns of the other Board Members.
A matter of this magnitude needs to be discussed with others. Lora chose Vice Chair McMahon, but it was too late. George, in his arrogance had already selected Kristine Nelson-Fuge of the County Attorney’s Office. In George’s mind, the case was closed.
By law, Lora was now unable to discuss this matter with any other Commissioners.

Unfazed, Commissioner Walker set about to develop a plan

on her own, that would, first and foremost conserve taxpayer dollars.
Unfortunately, Lora’s plan required a small degree of complexity which overwhelmed her male counterparts, who chose not to trust Lora’s judgment in favor of George’s costly plan to install his friend and crony Nelson-Fuge to the position.
Commissioners Montzka and Greene quickly “sieg heiled” George’s plan and Nelson-Fuge was installed as interim Administrator.
Lora played by the rules. I don’t believe George did and once again, the citizenry got stiffed while George gains political clout at the expense of the taxpayers. (Sounds a lot like Bob Gustafson)
When George was elected, I thought he would bring non-dysfunctionality to this board, setting aside petty differences for the betterment of Chisago County.
I was wrong.
For some time, I have been receiving reports of the backbiting Commissioner McMahon has been routinely leveling at his colleague, Commissioner Walker, Chris Eng and others.
I think we can all agree there is no logical reason to dislike Commissioner Walker.
She is one gutsy lady.
But, even if he had a reason to dislike Lora, one would expect that George could be professional enough to function in spite of some perceived petty grievance.
Maybe George doesn't like girls, or perhaps women in positions of authority that he cannot control.
Maybe George's Liberal Tax and Spend ideology has been thwarted by Lora's "No New Taxes" stand.
But ultimately, I suspect George is about control and his backbiting of Lora is meant more as a example to the other commissioners, coercion as it were, of what he (George) is willing to do to them, should they choose to operate independently of an agenda known only to George.
George arrogantly exerted his authority in the work session this past week, leaving little doubt of his intent to install a person of his choice to succeed John Moosey as Administrator.
Though half deaf, I counted three occasions where George, with no concern for the other Commissioners tried to "slam dunk" Nelson-Fuge as permanent administrator.
My eyesight is still OK and I clearly saw Reiter and Moosey, laughing, giggling and damned near "high fiving" every time George tried to "unlevel" the playing field in Nelson-Fuge's behalf, leaving little doubt that he (George) was their (the Government’s) guy.
Commissioner George McMahon is extremely wealthy.
There is little doubt George earned every nickel through hard work and dedication toward the goal of becoming rich.
Every rich person will list “emotional detachment” as the biggest key to their success.
Life is rarely a win/win situation. When George earns a quarter million dollar commission, someone is bound to get hurt, but it is, after all “just business.”
Unfortunately for the taxpayers, George is unable to bring this “emotional detachment” to County Government.
The logical conclusion; George is playing with your money, not his own.

Confident people are deeply aware that they derive their confidence from strengthening their innate qualities and need not depend on others. So the more confident people are, the more peaceful they will be with both themselves and others. Even in disagreement or when pointing out the errors of others, confident people can remain calm and open-minded. Since they need not defend their self-worth by ‘winning’ in the argument, confident people can stay focused on the merits of different views and opinions without becoming hurtful toward others.

The essential difference between arrogance and confidence is not one of quantity or degree, but of quality and origin. Arrogance is needy and dependent on others, derived from comparison with the external. Confidence is free and independent of others, found and cultivated in the self. Buddhism in a New Light 9

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Government is What We Make It
or
What We Let it Become!
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

“The whole modern world has divided itself into Conservatives and Progressives (Liberals). The business of (Liberals) Progressives is to go on making mistakes. The business of the Conservatives is to prevent the mistakes from being corrected." G. K. Chesterton, Illustrated London News, April 19, 1924

Somewhere in the middle, perhaps lies common sense.

During the 1988 Presidential Campaign, George H.W. Bush’s strategist Lee Atwater made Willie Horton (a Black man convicted of murder) a household word. Atwater’s ad explained that Gov. Dukakis's prison furlough program (unsupervised weekend passes) released Horton 10 times and, on one of those furloughs, he kidnapped a young couple, stabbed the boy and "repeatedly" raped the girl. The ad effectively labeled Dukakis “soft on crime."
Liberals and Conservatives, Republicans and Democrats alike set out to build a monstrous prison system to play a numbers game designed to show constituents they were not “soft on crime.”
The message from the prison industrial complex simply stated, “The more people in jail, the safer you are, whether these criminals be violent or not.”
And we, the American people, bought it hook, line and sinker.
Untold billions of dollars were removed from infrastructure projects, roads, bridges and public safety to jail non-violent prisoners in facilities designed with all the comforts of home.
The greed of a few and the self serving aspirations of inbred politicians have turned The United States of America from the “Land of the Free” to “Incarceration Nation.”
At a cost of over 60 billion dollars per year, 2,000,000 mostly non-violent inmates rot in prisons and jails while our roads and bridges collapse.

Dismantling the Prison Industrial Complex should be on Tea Party Agenda!

Whatever your thoughts of the Tea Party, good, bad or indifferent, they are involved.
While we are still the greatest country in the world, the Tea Party seeks to restore the solid underlying wealth in the middle class that resulted in the “The More Perfect Union,” “With Malice toward None,” the common sense that made us great in the first place.
Realistically, there is little we can do National scene, but we can make a difference in Chisago County.
I am running for District III Commissioner in 2012. My agenda is too correct an injustice perpetuated against the taxpayers of Chisago County.
We cannot wait until my election to implement reforms. The cost is too great; the tax burdens to small businesses are overwhelming a county suffering from economic decline and a diminishing tax base.
Your Commissioners, Walker, Montzka and Greene are well aware of my initiatives to get inmates out of jail and back to work. Thirty to fifty percent of these non-violent men are not even residents of Chisago County and most should be working under Huber Laws.
I sincerely hope you will encourage your commissioners to debate my reforms.
In the meantime, I would like to fix your lawnmower, rider or snowblower. We offer free pickup and delivery in Chisago County and the Metro Area.
Recycling of your unwanted outdoor power equipment is free. As a local business person, I want to earn your business. In that process, I hope to earn your respect and support for my common sense agenda.
Thanks for reading, Jon
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Denise Martin Chisago County Press, Mary Helen Swanson North Branch ECM Post Review, Johanna Puelston Isanti Chisago County Star who writes fiefdompolitics.com fiefdom politics.com Chisago County written in cowardly anonymity, Tim Okeefe or his wife FishLakeKarpa

Robinson Admits to Lying about Phone Records

2011-04-20T15:51:00.009-05:00

Commissioner Robinson
Admits to Lying about Phone Records!
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

The 2008 Election brought the defeat of Commissioners Bob Gustafson and Lynn Schultz, stalwart allies of Commissioner Robinson. Together, they had ruled Chisago County for four long years. Of this troika, only Robinson kept his job, though he is reduced to relatively moot point on the current Board.“Odd man out,” as it were.

Mike rarely takes responsibility for his own actions and blames his loss of power on sitting Commissioners, Lora Walker and Ben Montzka who Mike believes are responsible for the defeat of his very close friend, Lynn Schultz.

Ever since the election, Robinson has maintained and has stated publically that he is in possession of Ben Montzka’s phone records. Records that will supposedly prove Robinson’s conspiracy theory.

Obtaining phone records, by law requires a court order, leaving many to doubt the veracity of Robinson’s oft stated claim.

Ben Montzka is an Attorney. As such, his phone calls with clients are confidential and privileged. After two years of hearing Robinson’s claim, Montzka was forced act in the interest of his clients.

In a Complaint filed on August 11, 2010 Montzka requested the Sheriff’s Department investigate claims made by Robinson at 31325 Oasis Road in Center City in the presence of Commissioner Rick Green and others during a meeting at the County Maintenance Building.

According to Initial Complaint Report, Sergeant Armistead investigated the matter and was informed by Montzka’s land line carrier “that they do not see anything in their records that indicated anybody had requested this information.”

Montzka’s cell phone provider was not so forthcoming, requiring a court order to see if his (Montzka’s) phone records had been accessed.

Predictably (due to Robinson’s close association with County Attorney Janet Reiter) the County Attorney’s Office stonewalled Sergeant Armistead’s efforts to confirm or deny the validity of Robinson’s claim, leading to speculation that former Sheriff Todd (J. Edgar) Rivard may have supplied the records to Robinson. So,

Which Lie is the Real Lie?

In a telephone interview with Commissioner Robinson, Armistead reports “that he (Robinson) made a comment about phone records showing that he (Montzka) has been in contact with Laura (Lora Walker).”

Later in the report, Armistead states: “Robinson admitted to me that he (Robinson) had only said that (about the phone records) basically to get a rise out of Bennett Montzka”.

Apparently, “getting a rise” out of Commissioner Walker requires different tactics.

According to a Forest Lake Police report dated November 20, 2007 Robinson confronted Lora Walker at Cub Foods in Forest Lake and allegedly stated that he would harm her and her family.

Presumably, private citizen Lora (not a Commissioner at that time) Walker was shopping for her family’s Thanksgiving Dinner. Robinson, not pushing a shopping cart was clearly there to harass Walker, perhaps to intimidate her from running against Lynn Schultz in 2008.

Ultimately, Walker showed her grit, guts and determination by running against and defeating Shultz in the 2008 General Election and now sits across the table from Robinson at every Board meeting.

It is difficult to fathom how Robinson could have known Walker was going to be at Cub at that particular point in time.

Did Robinson lurk about the Cub store for days on end, waiting for his chance to accost Walker?

Shultz is known to shop at Cub and could have relayed that information to Robinson, but the exact time would be difficult for any stalker to pin down.

This question has been posed to Robinson. Robinson’s continued silence leads to speculation that others were involved.

It’s not hard to see why Robinson is disliked by other Board members.

Robinson’s bullying and issuing of terroristic threats to other members of the Board have created an atmosphere of tension and animosity.

After the incident at the County maintenance facility, Robinson’s committee assignments requiring a second commissioner were cancelled.

No one wants to be in the same room with a constantly overbearing, confrontational and belligerent counterpart. No one is going to knuckle under to Mike.

This situation is not beneficial to the citizens of District 5.

Clearly, Commissioner Mike Robinson is out of control and his behavior can no longer be tolerated.

Of course, Commissioner Robinson will tell you that what you have just read is a lie.

I Would Lie to You for your Vote, and that is the Truth!

Denise Martin Chisago County Press, Mary Helen Swanson North Branch ECM Post Review, Johanna Puelston Isanti Chisago County Star who writes fiefdompolitics.com written in cowardly anonymity
Tim Okeefe or his wife FishLakeKarpa

Who Would Jesus Jail?, Part II

2011-04-19T17:32:00.004-05:00

Who Would Jesus Jail?
Came on Vacation, Left on Probation
Got Jailed on Violation!
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

As a guest of former Sheriff Rivard in February of 2009, I was incarcerated (ostensibly for recycling without a license) at the Chisago County Jail with a carpenter from St. Paul, a resident of Ramsey County.

This man had gotten a drinking while driving infraction in Chisago County some five years earlier after a fishing expedition on one of our local lakes.

He plead guilty and was sentenced to 180 days in jail and 5 years probation. Thirty days of jail time were served with 150 days "held over his head." He never voluntarily returned to Chisago County.

A few years later, my carpenter friend got another drinking while driving offense in his home county, just a few blocks from his house. He paid a fine in Ramsey County and proceeded about his business.

When Chisago County Probation heard of the new infraction, they brought bring him back to serve the remaining 150 days "held over his head."
My friend tried to have this time served in Ramsey County, so he could continue to work and support his family. However because of the Huber fees charged by Chisago County, it became more cost effective for him to spend the 150 days in Chisago County Jail at a cost to taxpayers of some $15,000.

His family went on welfare in Ramsey County.

As I “interviewed” more inmates, it became apparent that the carpenter’s story was not unusual. Most of my fellow inmates were not residents of Chisago County and most were on lengthy jail stays for probation violations occurring outside Chisago County.

Metropolitan Counties view misdemeanors and petty crime differently than our Judges and County Attorney Janet Reiter, preferring to get the cash in the form of fines rather than costly jail time. While the punishment for Fifth Degree possession of a controlled substance in Ramsey County is a payable fine, Chisago County’s inbred judiciary goes for jail time and lengthy probation.

After a few days in jail, the minor perpetrator returns to the cities, soon forgetting about the probation and remaining jail time hanging “over their head” in Chisago County. Blissfully unaware the Local Prison Industrial Complex is “hell bent” to cram a 40 million dollar jail up our lower extremities.

The Prison Industrial Complex cannot sustain itself without repeat offenders. As such, no efforts are made to rehabilitate offenders or address their addiction. Consequently, offenders will abuse again. It is just a matter of time before they get “busted,” pay their fine in the Metro and are returned to Chisago to burden taxpayers locally.

Chisago County charges about $350 per week in Huber Fees while many other counties charge about $100 per week.

When the fees were established in Chisago County, during a robust economy, they may have made some sense. However, in the current, economic condition, it is just a deterrent to work, whether real or imagined.

The Huber fees collected by Chisago County does not amount to a "hill of beans" over a year’s time, while keeping these people working could save the County in welfare and other areas.

The following is copied from the Minnesota Statutes.

"4. Jail credit shall be awarded at the rate of one day for each day served for time spent in confinement under Huber Law (Minnesota Statutes, section 631.425).

Had my friend from Ramsey County been working; he would have been out 75 days earlier, saving the taxpayers some $7,500. I think 95% of the people of Chisago County would agree. When possible, inmates need to be working and paying taxes, not draining the system of vital resources (money).

If we make these resources (money) available to a man as intelligent, educated and dedicated as our current Sheriff, Rick Duncan, I have no doubt we can run the drug dealers out of our county and keep drunk drivers off the road.

I'm not sure we could ask much more from any mortal Sheriff.

The common denominators linking my fellow inmates are drugs, alcohol and poverty.

All, with the notable exception of myself, were repeat offenders.

My friend Phil, who works at the VFW (Possibly American Legion) Post in Hugo informs me that a person drinking three beers within an hour will "blow .08" and can be jailed for drunken driving.

In my beer drinking days in Texas, my brothers and I would routinely consume a six pack each, after work. I don't recall have any difficulty driving nor would I adversely molest my young bride (Don't come home a'drinking with loving on your mind).

It is estimated that for every DUI or DWI issued, 200 drunk drivers will "get away with it" and not get caught.

Conversely, with 200 to one odds against getting caught, most drunks will take the chance.

Now, if you are poor and drive a poor person's car you are more likely to be stopped by police. As such a poor person's odds are much higher than the person driving the Lexus.

The person driving the Lexus can afford a good lawyer and will never spend any significant time in jail if stopped. This fact was known to former Sheriff Rivard who instructed his officers to follow the path of least resistance, the poor drunk, further decreasing the odds by "running up the score" against the poor.

It costs the taxpayers about $40,000 a year to jail a poor person. Several of my fellow inmates did not beat the odds (several times) and were sentenced to 6 or 8 months in jail.

Perhaps it would cheaper for taxpayers to buy every drunk a new Lexus?

Quite frankly, it is not possible to catch every drunk out there. My goal is zero drunk driving related fatalities in Chisago County. As such, the focus must switch to prevention.

Rivard was never be able to look beyond his "inbred police mentality" to see this fact.

In short, we have the "immovable object" of Law Enforcement and the "irresistible force" of alcohol on a constant collision course of futility.

We cannot stop the "irresistible force" (Prohibition has been tried). However, it can be deflected with the intervention of reasonable people.

Over time, I will relay my thoughts to you in hopes of generating an open and honest debate for the sake of our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

We don't want anyone fall victim to the drunk driver. At the same time, we don't want to see our children criminalized for drinking three beers.

Denise Martin Chisago County Press, Mary Helen Swanson North Branch ECM Post Review, Johanna Puelston Isanti Chisago County Star fiefdompolitics written in cowardly anonymity
Tim Okeefe or his wife FishLakeKarpa

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2011-04-09T10:23:00.005-05:00

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Government is What We Make It

2011-04-09T09:52:00.003-05:00

Government is What We Make It

or What We Let it Become!

Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

“The whole modern world has divided itself into Conservatives and Progressives (Liberals). The business of (Liberals) Progressives is to go on making mistakes. The business of the Conservatives is to prevent the mistakes from being corrected." G. K. Chesterton, Illustrated London News, April 19, 1924

Somewhere in the middle, perhaps lies common sense.

During the 1988 Presidential Campaign, George H.W. Bush’s strategist Lee Atwater made Willie Horton (a Black man convicted of murder) a household word.

Atwater’s ad explained that Gov. Dukakis's prison furlough program (unsupervised weekend passes) released Horton 10 times and, on one of those furloughs, he kidnapped a young couple, stabbed the boy and "repeatedly" raped the girl.

The ad effectively labeled Dukakis “soft on crime." Liberals and Conservatives, Republicans and Democrats alike set out to build a monstrous prison system to play a numbers game designed to show constituents they were not “soft on crime.”

The message from the prison industrial complex simply stated, “The more people in jail, the safer you are, whether these criminals be violent or not.”

And we, the American people, bought it hook, line and sinker.

Untold billions of dollars were removed from infrastructure projects, roads, bridges and public safety to jail non-violent prisoners in facilities designed with all the comforts of home.

The greed of a few and the self serving aspirations of inbred politicians have turned The United States of America from the “Land of the Free” to “Incarceration Nation.”

At a cost of over 60 billion dollars per year, 2,000,000 mostly non-violent inmates rot in prisons and jails while our roads and bridges collapse.

Dismantling the Prison Industrial Complex should be on Tea Party Agenda!

Whatever your thoughts of the Tea Party, good, bad or indifferent, they are involved.

While we are still the greatest country in the world, the Tea Party seeks to restore the solid underlying wealth in the middle class that resulted in the “The More Perfect Union,” “With Malice toward None,” the common sense that made us great in the first place.

And that is why I have decided to run for District 3 County Commissioner in 2012.

Realistically, I can’t do much on the National scene, but I can make a difference for Chisago County.

It’s not that George McMahon “sucks” all that bad as a commissioner. He has done much good for the community, but George, like most politicians is part of the problem when he chooses not to be part of the solution.

Quite frankly, George does not have the “balls” to take on the Prison Industrial Complex.

I ran against George in the Primary of 2008. I came in dead last. The elitists ridiculed the 77 votes I garnered.

Myself, I have always been very proud that 77 people voted against the mainstream for good government and open representation.

The election is a long way off, in the meantime, I would like to fix your lawnmower, rider or snowblower.

We offer free pickup and delivery in Chisago County and the Metro Area.

As always, recycling of your unwanted outdoor power equipment is free.

As a local business person, I want to earn your business. In that process, I hope to earn your respect and ultimately your vote.

I don’t need nor will I accept campaign contributions and I won’t discuss politics unless you start it. Thanks, Jon

Who Would Jesus Jail?

2011-04-01T09:34:00.012-05:00

Who Would Jesus Jail?

Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

The Scriptures are largely silent, but one can deduce from Jesus’ Ministry to the poor, the weak, the powerless and the infirmed, that the lower classes would probably not have been His first choice to throw in jail.

In Chisago County, these dregs of society are collectively known as “Poor White Trash” or PWT’s of which I am proud to be a card carrying member.

Nationwide, Blacks are the most jailed class of American. One out of every three black males born today will spend time in jail or prison and currently one out of eight black men in their twenties are in jail.

Can’t really say what Jesus may have thought about this, but when I pass this statistic to most folks in these parts, the answer is the same, “Is that all? I figured there would be a lot more than that!” As if to say, “We would be somehow safer with more non-violent people in jail.”

Having lived in the Deep South for 25 years or so, I have probably become acquainted with more Black men than most Minnesotans will, say 40 or 50 guys.

Statistically, according to the Prison Industrial Complex, five of these guys should have been evil. I have not found that to be the case. Blacks are just normal folks like the rest of us.

A social worker friend brings up an interesting point. Blacks are more likely to be poor and since poor people occupy most jail space, it may not be racial at all.

Kinda makes me feel all warm and fuzzy knowing that poverty keeps our jails full. Which raises the logical questions? Who wants these poor muthas in jail and is it really cost effective to jail non-violent poor people?

Minnesota has traditionally passed the cost of jailing to the individual counties, preferring that poor people be held locally, at the expense of local property owners rather than wealthy individuals and corporations as is done by most states.

The State of Minnesota, passing unfunded mandates and criminal law, uses incarceration rates and quotas established by the Prison Industrial Complex to jail Blacks and poor people while passing the financial burden to local property owners.

Nationwide, most states spend an average of 6.89% of the state budget on prisons and jails. The State of Minnesota spends only 2.70%. However, when the cost to the Counties is factored in, the total cost exceeds 9% of the State Budget, more than most states.

In other words, most states pay their dues to the Prison Industrial Complex from State Income and/or Sales Taxes. In Minnesota, we pay for these excesses with Levy dollars assessed to your home and property.

This maneuver has been quite popular with former Governor Pawlenty. Every time the state budget needed balancing, unfundated mandates were established to pass the financial burden of state operation to local government.

This tactic could be quite beneficial if Pawlenty becomes President. With one stroke of his pen, he could eliminate the National Debt by assigning that debt (about $30,000) to each man, woman and child in the country and simply say, “Hey, it’s your problem, now. Not mine.”

Throughout history, governments and unscrupulous business persons have profited from the misery of others. For centuries, European traders amassed great fortunes in the African slave trade. When the British finally abolished slavery in 1840, these traders turned to the lucrative Opium Trade. Britain and America actually went to war with China to insure wealthy Opium traders could profit from the addiction of millions of Chinese.

This Anglo American induced drug epidemic did not end until the Communist Revolution a hundred years later when the drug addicts were simply executed, taken out and shot.

In today’s world, The Prison Industrial Complex profits from the misery and forced incarceration of millions of non violent Americans.

The Criminal Justice System is big business, not only in this country, but right here in Chisago County.

While most people know the story of Jesus and his execution, not by the Jews, but by the State sponsored Prison Industrial Complex of the day, few know the story of Chisago County’s County Attorney, Janet Reiter’s rise to power.

Like many lawyers, Janet was lured into the Prison Industrial Complex at an early age. Her naïve and giddy thoughts of punishing bad guys was an inspiring force. Trouble was there weren’t enough bad guys to go around, so she settled for the only job she could find, working as an assistant county attorney.

Despite the drawbacks of working in small rural community with little crime and fewer blacks, Janet was able to exploit the weaknesses of poor people. In time, she was able to get a better job in a larger county where she honed her strengths by prosecuting poor people who could not defend themselves.

Life moved on in Chisago County without Janet.

Through a fluke in the electoral process, Janet’s predecessor, Katherine Johnson, having no practical experience prosecuting poor white trash was elected as County Attorney.

The jails quickly emptied. Though Katherine’s ineptitude saved the County several hundred thousand dollars, the Prison Industrial Complex became quite alarmed.

The empty jails had not resulted in the predicted crime wave.

Katherine was in a real bind. She needed to come up with some criminals’ real quick. Our Judges didn’t have anything to do and staff was facing layoffs. It was decided to make criminals out of ordinary citizens. Code enforcement officers were dispatched throughout the County to issue citations for lawns not cut to County specs and other minor infractions.

Unfortunately for Katherine, a Code Enforcement Officer issued a citation to retired Judge Clifford. Judge Clifford is a card carrying member of the Prison Industrial Complex who had been jailing PWT’s when Janet was still in diapers. He was pissed.

But Katherine was desperate for a conviction and decided to prosecute. Judge Clifford flipped out and went about North County pointing out code violations of other residents, forcing Katherine to proscecute all perceived violators.

All was well, the courts filled up. PWT’s were returning to jail and the taxpayers were being fleeced again. However Judge Clifford was still pissed.

He recruited and reportedly funded Janet’s campaign, leading to Katherine’s defeat in the 2006 Election.

If Janet can jail enough PWT's, Minnesota's Inbred Judicial Selection Process (MIJSP) will probably tap her to be judge one day, allowing her to follow in the footsteps of her mentor, Judge Clifford.

And the cycle will continue.

A select group of lawyers getting rich jailing non violent poor people at the expense of middle class taxpayers.

Jesus was known for His compassion toward the poor. I wonder if He would have compassion for the taxpayers, as well?

Coercion or Free Speech?

2011-04-01T09:10:00.004-05:00

Coercion or Free Speech?

Successful Prosecution Sets Dangerous Precedent

Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

A legal precedent is set when a Judge makes a decision about a certain legal matter.

Even if this Judge’s decision is to jump from a cliff, the inbred judges that follow in his footsteps will be duty bound to leap from that same cliff.

Sooner or later, someone with enough money and sharp lawyer may be able to get this precedent overturned in Appellate Court, but until then, our inbred judges will continue to jump from the same proverbial cliff.

With unemployment in Chisago County hovering around 10%, one would think Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter would have little trouble finding enough PWT’s (Poor White Trash) to fill the jails.

But Janet is a real trooper for the Prison Industrial Complex and is always seeking new ways to increase jail populations.

As reported by Denise Martin and the Chisago County Press, Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter coerced a coercion related Alford Plea from a Lent man for the grand total of $100 in fines. No reports are available as to the amount of taxpayer dollars spent by Reiter in this “No Contest” conviction.

Minnesota statutes regarding coercion are extremely broad and not usually enforced in this manner, especially when politicians are involved.

Coercion sounds nasty as it is usually related to Coercion of Prostitution, i.e., a person of authority coercing sexual favors from an underling wanting to keep their job.

In this case a young politician got pissed at an old politician and wrote a letter he wishes he could take back.

Janet Reiter used this letter to end the young man’s political career with another of her nonsensical, probably politically motivated prosecutions.

The extreme broadness of this conviction puts freedom of speech at risk in Chisago County.

As an example, suppose you were mad at your commissioner, George McMahon for introducing a 2-3% tax increase. Say you went to public forum and told George, “If you pass this tax, I will not vote for you next time and I will tell the world you are a “Tax and Spend Liberal.”

Technically, you have met Reiter’s requirement of coercion, defined simply as anyone stating “either you do something I want or there will be consequences.”

The amount of time you spend in jail for such a statement depends upon the financial loss incurred. Say your single vote cost George the election. George would lose his $30,000 job as commissioner.

Since the amount of damage exceeds $2,500, you could face fines of $20,000 and ten years in prison. If you had the money to hire a good lawyer, you could “beat the rap,” however, the stigma of being charged with coercion could never be overcome in a small community like Lindstrom and Chisago.

As was the case with the young man from Lent, whose standing in the community was lessened, your right of dissent would be compromised, your free speech neutered.

The great philosopher Plato once stated "The price of apathy towards public affairs is to be ruled by evil men."

It can be argued that World War II started when the first German citizens were coerced to give up their free speech.

As such, Reiter’s “Coercion” cannot stand.

The young man from Lent’s standing in the community cannot be restored with the return of $100, but the ability to pick and choose who runs for public office cannot be determined by Janet Reiter, her cronies or the County Attorney’s office.

We need to reserve that right for “We the People,” not “Us the Government.”

It Takes Three to Tango

2011-04-01T09:03:00.006-05:00

It Takes Three to Tango

Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

If you have ever had the misfortune of being prosecuted in Chisago County, the County Attorney probably closed their case by telling the jury, “These laws are for your protection, you must enforce them and return a guilty verdict."

In all too many cases, the laws exist because some politician did not understand the simple fact that anything written can be interpreted to mean most anything Government or some inbred lawyer wants it to mean.

This is not the case with the open meeting laws. Open meeting laws were designed to protect the citizenry from back room deals and shady politics by forcing the decision making of local government leaders into the limelight.

Basically, the law states that a quorum of leaders cannot meet without public notice. On a three person board, a quorum exists if any two board members are at the same place at the same time.

Hence, an accidental meeting at a coffee shop could technically violate open meeting laws. The County Board of Commissioners is a five person panel, so the quorum is three which allows any two Commissioners to communicate regarding a specific matter.

Open meeting laws prohibit serial meetings. While Commissioner “A” can speak of a single matter to Commissioner “B”, “B” cannot speak of this same matter to Commissioner “C” without violating the open meeting law.

About this time, you are probably asking yourself, “How the “bleep” do they ever get anything done?”

Dysfunctional as it sounds, the law seeks to force the debate of any given issue into the public eye. Problem is commissioners are reluctant to speak openly on some issues, giving rise to backroom negotiations and deal making by Commissioners seeking to exercise or solidify more than their fair share of power.

When longtime County Administrator John Moosey announced he was leaving Chisago for a similar job in Alaska, many in Government and the community panicked. County Board Chair Lora Walker’s phone rang off the hook.

No one in Chisago County is more qualified to hire the new administrator than Lora Walker. As such, there was no panic on Lora’s part, just confident determination to set up a process that would insure Moosey was replaced with the best possible candidate, while addressing the concerns of the other Board Members.

A matter of this magnitude needs to be discussed with others.

Lora chose Vice Chair McMahon, but it was too late. George, in his arrogance had already selected Kristine Nelson-Fuge of the County Attorney’s Office. In George’s mind, the case was closed.

By law, Lora was now unable to discuss this matter with any other Commissioners.

Unfazed, Commissioner Walker set about to develop a plan on her own,

that would, first and foremost conserve taxpayer dollars.

Unfortunately, Lora’s plan required a small degree of complexity which overwhelmed her male counterparts, who chose not to trust Lora’s judgment in favor of George’s costly plan to install his friend and crony Nelson-Fuge to the position.

Commissioners Montzka and Greene quickly “sieg heiled” George’s plan and Nelson-Fuge was installed as interim Administrator.

Lora played by the rules. I don’t believe George did and once again, the citizenry got stiffed while George gains political clout at the expense of the taxpayers.

(Sounds a lot like Bob Gustafson)

When George was elected, I thought he would bring non-dysfunctionality to this board, setting aside petty differences for the betterment of Chisago County.

I was wrong.

For some time, I have been receiving reports of the backbiting Commissioner McMahon has been routinely leveling at his colleague, Commissioner Walker, Chris Eng and others.

I think we can all agree there is no logical reason to dislike Commissioner Walker.

She is one gutsy lady.

But, even if he had a reason to dislike Lora, one would expect that George could be professional enough to function in spite of some perceived petty grievance.

Maybe George doesn't like girls, or perhaps women in positions of authority that he cannot control. Maybe George's Liberal Tax and Spend ideology has been thwarted by Lora's "No New Taxes" stand.

But ultimately, I suspect George is about control and his backbiting of Lora is meant more as a example to the other commissioners, coercion as it were, of what he (George) is willing to do to them, should they choose to operate independently of an agenda known only to George.

George arrogantly exerted his authority in the work session this past week, leaving little doubt of his intent to install the person of his choice to succeed John Moosey as Administrator.

Though half deaf, I counted three occasions where George, with no concern for the other Commissioners tried to "slam dunk" Nelson-Fuge as permanent administrator.

My eyesight is still OK and I clearly saw Reiter and Moosey, laughing, giggling and damned near "high fiving" every time George tried to "unlevel" the playing field in Nelson-Fuge's behalf, leaving little doubt that he (George) was their (the Government’s) guy.

Commissioner George McMahon is extremely wealthy. There is little doubt George earned every nickel through hard work and dedication toward the goal of becoming rich.

Every rich person will list “emotional detachment” as the biggest key to their success.

Life is rarely a win/win situation. When George earns a quarter million dollar commission, someone is bound to get hurt, but it is, after all “just business.”

Unfortunately for the taxpayers, George is unable to bring this “emotional detachment” to County Government.

The logical conclusion; George is playing with your money, not his own.

Confident people are deeply aware that they derive their confidence from strengthening their innate qualities and need not depend on others. So the more confident people are, the more peaceful they will be with both themselves and others. Even in disagreement or when pointing out the errors of others, confident people can remain calm and open-minded. Since they need not defend their self-worth by ‘winning’ in the argument, confident people can stay focused on the merits of different views and opinions without becoming hurtful toward others.

The essential difference between arrogance and confidence is not one of quantity or degree, but of quality and origin. Arrogance is needy and dependent on others, derived from comparison with the external. Confidence is free and independent of others, found and cultivated in the self. Buddhism in a New Light 9

Three Cheers For Mark Osland

2010-08-15T12:29:00.003-05:00

Three Cheers for Mark Osland
70% of Voters Want Change in Sheriff’s Department
Taxpayers Win Big in Sheriff’s Race
Sheriff Rivard’s Popularity and Karl Schreck’s

Campaign Sink like a Lead Balloon!
Commissioner Mike Robinson’s Power

declines downward into a Spiral of Death
Rick Duncan Clear Choice to be Next Sheriff
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Karl Schreck was campaigning before Chisago County Sheriff Todd Rivard announced his decision to retire in March.

Rick Duncan, the winner of the Primary with 46% of the vote and the clear choice to be our next Sheriff announced his decision in May.

Mark Osland did not enter the race until June, leaving just a few weeks to campaign before an early Primary.

Mark Osland’s hard work and determination yielded an amazing 17% of the votes cast.

Anyone who thinks 1,000 votes in a Primary Election is a small feat, needs to try it sometime.

In the General Election, any candidate will get “luck of the draw” votes cast by those who are uninformed as to the merits of any particular candidate. However, Primary voters are a tough sell. These 21% of registered voters go the extra mile to vote in a Primary and are well informed about every candidate on the ballot.

Mark Osland is a “Class Act,” with no shortage of the “C Words,” Character, Compassion, Courage and Common Sense.

Many Duncan supporters, myself included were concerned that Mark would split the “Good Guy” vote, leaving Schreck to actually appear as though he is a viable candidate.

Yet, Karl Schreck failed to take his lagging campaign beyond a small but vocal group of supporters in his horse club and a very few Chisago County Deputies.

Sheriff Todd Rivard’s backing of Schreck yielded small results. Commissioner Robinson’s rabid support of “the Garbage Cop,” in Rush City provided a mere 10 net votes for Schreck over Osland and Duncan, further indication that Robinson is on his way out, hopefully replaced in 2012 by a “C Word” candidate.

Though Mark ran a totally positive campaign, Osland’s supporters are not likely to vote for Schreck in November because Schreck’s character, or lack thereof, has preceded him.

Schreck and his cronies in the Sheriff’s Department have campaigned on the taxpayer’s “dime,” something that does not sit well with most voters. They have openly intimidated business persons supporting other candidates.

Clearly Schreck and his staff had expected a convincing win, however Karl failed to grasp the fact that he and his goons cannot go into the voting booth with every voter.

Despite fear of retaliation and reprisals from the Sheriff’s department, voters said “no” to the “Mafia-like” tactics of Karl Schreck and Commissioner Mike Robinson.

Karl Schreck has a completely legitimate side business of trimming horse’s hooves. Stories of Sheriff Rivard “busting” Schreck back to Private for persistently sleeping away his night shift in a donut shop leads to conjecture that Schreck was probably sleeping during his night shift to conserve energy for his day job.

Apparently, Schreck’s Stripes have never been returned, though he still calls himself Sergeant.

These stories are just the tip of the iceberg for Schreck, Rivard and Robinson. Other stories and rumors of abuses by a small group of Chisago County Sheriff’s Department employees, leaves many people wondering why Rivard would support anyone like Schreck; as such support defies the common sense and logic of most voters.

People are beginning to speculate that, perhaps Todd is not the brightest bulb on the Rivard Family Tree.

Taylors Fall is patrolled by three full time Chisago County deputies at a net financial loss to the taxpayers of Chisago County, yet these three cops issue fewer citations per capita than any other area of the County. This lends credence to the rumor that Sheriff Rivard has a very long “no stop list” for Taylors Falls family, friends and supporters. Yet, the many alleged benefactors of this list, did not deliver a clear win for Schreck in that precinct.

In retrospect, despite my earlier reservations, Mark Osland’s entry and effort, devoting his time, treasure and talent to the Sheriff’s race yielded positive results for the taxpayers of Chisago County. An early debate among voters about the qualifications of the candidates clarified our need and our desire for leadership from outside the Sheriff’s Department as we head toward the fall general elections.

For this, we owe Mark Osland, his family and his supporters a sincere debt of gratitude.

Chisago County Commissioner Rick Greene

2010-08-03T07:49:00.007-05:00

Chisago County Commissioner Rick Greene
Common Sense Leadership
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

The Tea Party Movement is about Common Sense. Since few people will knowingly vote for a candidate lacking common sense, it can be said that we are all “Tea Partyists.” We all want, and profit from good government. It’s just common sense.

In Chisago County, we are fortunate to have Rick Greene’s courage, common sense and country wisdom working for us on the County Board of Commissioners. In the depths of the current recession, Rick reduced government spending to bring about the first ever zero percent property tax increase in memorable history for the taxpayers of Chisago County.

When former Commissioner Lynn Schultz and the Prison Industrial Complex tried to saddle us with a lavish, overbuilt and unwarranted 40 million dollar jail, Rick’s country wisdom was immortalized by the following simple and eloquent statement. “The walls will crumble before it (the jail) will ever be filled.”

In retaliation, “Good Old Boy” Commissioners Robinson, Schultz and Gustafson cut all highway funding to Rick’s District. Many of us would have “caved” to the Prison Industrial Complex, watching our constituents endure hazardous road conditions while Commissioner Robinson was paving roads to his favorite bars and pubs with District Two Highway Dollars.

Rick stayed his ground and along with fellow Commissioner Montzka “held the fort” until the cavalry, in the form of newly elected Commissioners Lora Walker and George McMahon, arrived. The proposed jail was voted down, an unbiased County Highway Engineer was chosen and the new board set about to correct the wrongs perpetuated by Lynn Schultz and the Prison Industrial Complex against the citizens of District Two.

Fairness is common sense. This new board is about fairness. There is no desire to retaliate against the citizens of Mike Robinson’s District by denying county highway dollars. However, the “neglected” District Two roads need repair, now.

As the “Good Old Boys” have spent our highway funds for years to come, bonding is a necessity. Commissioner Robinson’s roads were bonded. Former Commissioner Schultz readily bonded roads for her district when she was in power.

Now, it seems Rick Greene’s opponent in the Chisago County District Two Commissioners race, Katherine Johnson, says we should not bond District Two roads, which means the citizens of District Two should continue to “suck hind teat” until all of Robinson and Schultz’s bonds are repaid.

Coming from Katherine Johnson, comments like these are not totally unexpected.

Katherine Johnson is a pawn of Mike Robinson, Lynn Schultz and the Prison Industrial Complex.
Robinson is an intimidating man. There is no way Katherine Johnson has the fortitude to stand down Commissioner Mike Robinson. If Robinson wants District Two Road funds, Katherine will be obliged to hand them over.

For Commissioner Robinson and former Commissioner Schultz, it’s not about public service; it’s about regaining lost power. With County Attorney Janet Reiter firmly under their control and a Katherine Johnson victory over Commissioner Greene coupled with an unlikely but possible win by Karl Schreck in the Sheriff’s race, Lynn Schultz could return the Good Old Boys to complete dominance in 2012.

As “Tea Partyists of Common Sense,” we must maintain vigilance, we must be involved, and we must determine and support the candidates of integrity and common sense.

The records of both candidates are clear. Rick Greene has proven his ability to lead, while Katherine Johnson clearly “sucks hind teat” in the arena of common sense.

Rick Duncan Tough on Crime, Smart About Crime

2010-07-22T19:22:00.002-05:00

Rick Duncan
Tough on Crime, Smart About Crime
Common Sense for Chisago County Sheriff
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Rick Duncan is the most widely respected Peace Officer in Chisago County. Rick’s reputation stems from two sources, being tough on crime and smart about crime. Rick knows prevention of crime is cost effective. Incarceration is not. Jails are expensive to build, costly to maintain and benefit only a select few.

Chisago County has never been a haven for hardened criminals, yet we spend hundreds of thousands of dollars each year housing non violent inmates at jails in Polk, Isanti and Washington County simply because the Prison Industrial Complex seeks to force the construction of a never ending system of prisons throughout this country.

Duncan understands that only very small fractions of the citizenry are habitual criminals.
These are often youthful offenders requiring guidance, perhaps a redirecting of their moral compass.

Of his many achievements in Minneapolis Law Enforcement, Duncan’s work with kids has had outstanding results. 70% of youthful offenders participating in Duncan’s Police Athletic League stayed out of trouble and never returned to the system, saving incalculable tax dollars used to reduce violent crime and crimes against property by a whopping 17% and 27% respectively.

Duncan’s two fold strategy on crime has served Minneapolis well.

A Minneapolis Police Sergeant, a county resident, puts it this way. “Rick Duncan is the best Commanding Officer I have ever had the privilege of serving. We are gonna miss Rick. He will make a great Sheriff. We know he won’t be back; the good ones never come back. Some guys leave the Department and return, but the best never come back.”

As a county resident, the Sergeant wants Rick as Sheriff even though the Minneapolis Police Department will suffer. Minneapolis’s loss is our gain. Vote for Duncan!

Vote for Rick Duncan August 10th

Jon's Small Engine in Forest Lake

2010-07-22T19:20:00.000-05:00

Jon’s Small Engine
½ Mile west of the Sears Store on Hwy 8 in Forest Lake

Buy Sell Trade
Repair Replace Recycle

Cash paid for Running or Repairable Garden Tractors, Lawn Tractors, Riding Lawnmowers, Snowblowers
Walk behind Mowers and Engine Cores

Used Push Mowers…………………………………......$50 & Up
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Used Snowblowers (in season)……………………......$150 & Up
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Used Garden Tractors……………………………...…$500 & Up

Service Specials
We Rebuild & Repair Four Cycle Engines including:
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Walk Behind Mower Tune-up…………………….…$50 & Up
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We repair all brands including John Deere, Cub Cadet, MTD, Craftsman, Simplicity, Allis, Scotts, Sabre, Murray, Wheel Horse and Toro to name a few!

Pick Up & Delivery Available….Riders $75, Walk Behind $25

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A Message to Young Voters

2010-07-22T19:11:00.004-05:00

A Message to Young Voters
The Prison Industrial Complex Wants You! In Jail!
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Throughout history, unscrupulous business persons have profited from the misery of others. For centuries, European traders amassed great fortunes in the slave trade.

When the British finally abolished slavery in 1840, these traders turned to the lucrative Opium Trade.

Britain and America actually went to war with China to insure wealthy Opium traders could profit from the addiction of millions of Chinese.

This Anglo American induced drug epidemic did not end until the Communist Revolution a hundred years later when the drug addicts were simply executed, taken out and shot.

In today’s world, The Prison Industrial Complex profits from the misery and forced incarceration of millions non violent Americans.

The Criminal Justice System is big business, not only in this country, but right here in Chisago County.

Many young people, old enough to vote, but not for drinking are jailed for underage consumption of alcohol, an offense that does not require jail time in Washington and other metropolitan counties.

The local Prison Industrial Complex places the young offender in a jail full of addicts, introducing them to drugs at an early age.

Through probation and other means, the young “offender,” is often returned to jail for further “indoctrination.”

The Prison Industrial Complex knows, if they can get you young, they will have a return customer for life.

If you don’t vote, you don’t count!

Sad, but true.

Many Politicians pander to the people who vote, often leaving young voters, ages 18 to 30 with little clout in local government. This same age group will pay for the excesses of the Prison Industrial Complex, either in prison as a “customer,” or as a taxpayer.

If you vote, you will be noticed at the polls. Local politicians will take notice of this trend and you will get the political clout you deserve.

For the first time in decades, we have an opportunity to break the stranglehold of the Prison Industrial Complex in Chisago County.

The choice is clear. Karl Schreck is a pawn of the Prison Industrial Complex while Rick Duncan does not want to see you in jail.

Rick’s character is strong, his moral fiber is high. Rick has no desire to fill quotas or to make criminals out of ordinary citizens to keep the jails full.

I hope you will check out http://www.duncanforsheriff.com/. and http://www.schreckforsheriff.com/.

It’s pretty clear; Rick Duncan is the most qualified candidate.

I hope you will urge your friends to vote. Never think your vote doesn’t count. In a small community one vote can make a huge difference, for all of us.

Thanks for reading, thanks for getting involved, Jon

Free Heavy Metal Recycling
Free Towing of Junk Cars!

651-334-1300

Free Gas Grill Recycling!

Early Voting Now Open!

2010-07-22T19:06:00.003-05:00

Early Voting Now Open!

Vote Absentee
The Following is copied directly from the Chisago County Website. Please note; the misspellings are not mine!

You can vote by absentee ballot if you are unable to vote in person on Election Day because you are:

In person: You may vote in person at the Chisago County Auditors Office during the following times for the Primary and General Elections:

During normal office hours beginning 45 days before the election
On the Saturday before the election from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or
On the Monday before the election until 5 p.m.

Jon’s Small Engine
Proudly Supports

Rick Duncan for Sheriff

www.duncanforsheriff.com

Chisago County Deputies Shun Karl Schreck, Support Rick Duncan for Sheriff

2010-07-07T07:30:00.007-05:00

Deputies Support Rick Duncan, Shun Karl Schreck for Chisago County Sheriff

Karl Schreck, the “Garbage Cop” is an Odd
Candidate for Chisago County Sheriff

Karl Schreck Lacks Intellect, Mental Stability
To be an Effective as Chisago County Sheriff
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Sheriff Rivard’s decision to retire is the best news the taxpayers of Chisago County have had since the elections of Lora Walker and George McMahon to the County Board in 2008. With leadership from Commissioners Rick Greene and Ben Montzka, this board adopted the first ever 0% levy increase in memory.

That means your property taxes in Chisago County increased by zip, zero, nada thanks to “common sense leadership.” Leadership with the guts to cut government spending and stand down the “Prison Industrial Complex,” led by local “Good Old Boy” politicians Mike Robinson, Bob Gustafson and Lynn Schultz.

Rivard had become known to the Board as the “Million Dollar Man.” Every week or so, Rivard was demanding another million or so to fund his department. A million here and a million there, pretty soon, you’re talking big money.

With the County Attorney’s Office firmly in their grip, the “Good Old Boys” need to maintain control of the Sheriff’s Department to retain any hopes of reviving the unwarranted Forty Million Dollar Jail Project.

Other than a few close friends in Karl’s horse club, no one really believes Karl Schreck has what it takes to be effective as Chisago County Sheriff. To the “Good Old Boys,” Karl Schreck’s ineptitude is a plus. Karl Schreck makes a good patsy for Chisago County Sheriff.

The “Good Old Boys” didn’t fare so well in the last election, with only Robinson retaining his seat on the County Board. Lynn Schultz’s vow to return led to speculation that the “Good Old Broad” would move about a mile into Rick Greene’s District and attempt a comeback during this election cycle.

Instead, former County Attorney Katherine Johnson was tapped to run against Rick Greene.

Chisago County Commissioner Rick Greene saved Chisago County from bankruptcy by standing down the local "Prison Industrial Complex," led by Commissioners Mike Robinson of Rush City, former Commissioners Lynn Schultz and Bob Gustafson.

In retaliation, the "Good Old Boys" withheld highway funding from Greene's District, but Commissioners Greene and Montzka "held the fort" until the "calvary" arrived in form of newly elected Commissioners Lora Walker and George McMahon.

An unlikely, but possible win over a very popular Rick Greene would set the stage for Lynn Schultz’s rematch against Commissioner Lora Walker in 2012.

Commissioner Walker is also incredibly popular in her District and a loss to Shultz is, again unlikely, but possible.

So, with Commissioner Robinson’s patsy, Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter, filling the jail with dog license violators and Karl Schreck arresting code violators coupled with the improbable elections of Katherine Johnson and Lynn Schultz, we could see the “Prison Industrial Complex” breaking ground in 2013.

The Chisago County Sheriff’s Department has several cops better suited to be Sheriff than Schreck. Problem is, they are not “Good Old Boy” politicians and have the strength of character needed to run an independent Sheriff’s Department and are not willing to be anyone’s puppet.

The rank and file members of the Chisago County Sheriff’s Department are professional, dedicated cops. Most live and pay taxes in Chisago County. They can no more afford to pay for a 40 million dollar jail than you or I.

These guys joined the force to catch bad guys and drug dealers, not to fill the jails with petty criminals at the behest of Lynn Schultz and the “Prison Industrial Complex.” These guys joined the force to provide Public Safety, not to make criminals out of average citizens. They have no desire to be Mike Robinson’s Secret Police.

Professional cops want professional and experienced leadership.

That is why most Chisago County Deputies support Rick Duncan for Chisago County Sheriff despite fear of retribution at the hands of Karl Schreck and the Sheriff’s Department.

To quote Rick Duncan, candidate for Chisago County Sheriff, “Retaliation is not a word in my professional career. Law Enforcement should never be about retaliation but should be fair and impartial enforcement.”

Recently, a “paper hanger” (writer of hot checks) served six years in the Wisconsin State Penitentiary. Released on parole, he moved in with family in Chisago County. After a time, he wore out his welcome and was asked to leave. Unfortunately, he was broke with nowhere else to go.

So his family accused him of making a terroristic threat. He was arrested. Unable to make bail, he had been in jail for over 90 days when I met him and had another 30 days to go until his first hearing before the Judge.

When Randy Schwegman was Sheriff, Deputy Karl Schreck threatened to shoot his boss. A terroristic threat. Naturally, Schwegman wanted him fired, but others intervened and Karl Schreck kept his job and is today, running for Chisago County Sheriff.

“Fair and Impartial Enforcement” or

“Good Old Boy” Politics?

Rick Duncan or Karl Schreck?

It’s not hard to see why Chisago County

Sheriff’s Deputies Support Rick Duncan.

Rick Duncan for Chisago County Sheriff

Karl Schreck for Chisago County Sheriff

Mark Osland for Chisago County Sheriff

Mark Oslund for Chisago County Sheriff

Rick Duncan Common Sense for County Sheriff

2010-06-27T21:09:00.007-05:00

Rick Duncan
Common Sense for County Sheriff
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Rick Duncan, a Minneapolis Police Lieutenant, is the most widely respected Peace Officer in Chisago County. A lifelong resident, Rick graduated from Chisago Lakes High School and served on the Chisago City Police Department for several years before joining the Minneapolis Police.

Rick’s career has been upwardly mobile ever since, rising through the ranks from Patrol Officer to Lieutenant, currently serving as Patrol Sector Commander, taking direct responsibility for nearly 40 Officers, Sergeants and Crime Prevention Specialists.

Rick’s phone started ringing when Todd Rivard announced his retirement.

When Karl Schreck, aka “The Garbage Cop” announced his Karl Schreck for Chisago County Sheriff Campaign, Duncan’s phone rang “off the hook.”

Indeed, the specter of Karl Schreck (Shrek) as Chisago County Sheriff alarmed many in the community.

Chisago County is changing. “Good Old Boy” Politics is dying and a new breed of Public Servant is emerging. Political common sense is making a comeback in Chisago County, a place where its citizens take pride in their “country wisdom.” People move to Chisago County just to be near folks with common sense. With all our common sense, in the past, we have made some horrific choices by electing way too many “Good Old Boy” politicians to powerful positions in local government.

However, when we elected George McMahon and Lora Walker to the County Board, they joined sitting Commissioners Rick Greene and Ben Montzka to give “Common Sense” a “Super Majority” on the County Board, something thought to be impossible.

For the first time in memorable history, Chisago County has four commissioners that are “in it for the people,” not for their own personal gain. Commissioners who are willing to “bust butt” for the people of Chisago County rather than the pursuit of their own selfish, “Good Old Boy” interests.

Chisago County has two main sources of revenue. The property taxes paid to the County and LGA or Local Government Aid from the State. Basically, LGA is a rebate from income and sales taxes collected by the State, paid to the County to cover the cost of “unfunded mandates.”

Whenever Governor Pawlenty needs to balance the budget, he simply cuts LGA, without changing any of laws to relieve the County of the financial burden of these “unfunded mandates,” leaving the “Common Sense Super Majority” scrambling to cover the shortfall.

The County takes advantage of federal reimbursements for staff mostly in health and human services department and applies for every grant available from both the State and Federal Government.

However, it is their independence from the “Good Old Boy” network and the creativity of Commissioners Montzka, Greene, Walker and McMahon that has allowed this board to navigate in these “troubled waters.”

As Sheriff, Rick Duncan will maintain an independent department, free of “Good Old Boy” politics. All of Rick’s energy, integrity, intelligence, skill and experience will be needed to tackle the challenges that face us all, right here in Chisago County.

Rick is a “great fit” with the “Common Sense Super Majority” of Greene, Montzka, McMahon and Walker. All value their independence and respect the independence of the others. We’re not out of the economic woods, yet. It’s gonna take a lot of brain power and creativity to get us through the next several years.

Rick Duncan is the right man, at the right place, at the right time to provide public safety without bankrupting Chisago County.

www.duncanforsheriff.com

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Early Voting Is Open!

2010-06-27T20:59:00.003-05:00

Primary Election
Please Vote!
August 10, 2010

Yes, the Minnesota Primary is in August this year, rather than its usual September, after school starts, date. And yes this sucks, but you can:

Vote Absentee!

The Following is copied from the Chisago County Website. Please note; the misspellings are not mine!

You can vote by absentee ballot if you are unable to vote in person on Election Day because you are:

Absent from the precinct
Ill or disabled
An election judge serving in another precinct
Unable to go to the polling place due to a religious holiday or beliefs

Absentee ballots are available 45 days prior to the State Primary and the State General Election. You may pick up an application for an absentee ballot in person, or request one from the Chisago County Auditors Office, Chisago County Governmnet Center, Room 271, 313 North Main Sttreet, Center City, MN 55012, (651) 213-8500 (651) 213-8500.
In person: You may vote in person at the Chisago County Auditors Office during the following times for the Primary and General Elections:

During normal office hours beginning 45 days before the election
On the Saturday before the election from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or
On the Monday before the election until 5 p.m.

Vote Rick Duncan for Sheriff

Jon’s Small Engine
½ Mile west of the Sears Store on Hwy 8 in Forest Lake

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LS Power Plant is a Good Deal for Lent Township, Chisago County

2009-09-15T10:15:00.002-05:00

LS Power Plant is a Good Deal for Lent Township, Chisago County
Project Deserves Public Support
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Who speaks for the uninformed?

As citizens of this country, it has always been assumed each and every one of us is responsible to learn the facts and develop a competent opinion regarding important issues affecting our friends and neighbors in the community.

In a recent, albeit unscientific poll, the Epitaph randomly phoned 10 residents of Chisago County. None of whom had ever heard of the project. While expressing no opposition to the LS Power, no one expressed a burning desire to learn more.

As Americans, we demand a lot from our government, our elected leaders and industry to be sure hot water is available for our morning shave and that we have a utility grid capable of supplying energy to ward off frostbite on a frigid Minnesota winter night.

The main purpose of LS Power’s proposed Lent power generating station is to provide electricity for peak demand periods, your early morning shave and keeping your butt unfroze in extremely cold weather.

This peak demand system developed by LS Power is ecologically friendly when compared to the burning of coal to achieve similiar results. Quite simply, coal fired plants cannot easily be turned on and off, as is feasible with a plant fired with fuel oil or natural gas.

Rick Olseen and Jeremy Kalin know this. They also know this plant will be built somewhere. It will be built in someone’s back yard, so why not reap the economic benefits for Chisago County.

Olseen and Kalin are to be applauded for their efforts to “bring home the bacon” to Chisago County. We count on these guys to get informed when we do not have the time or the desire to learn of such things.

The ball is now, or soon will be in Commissioners Court.

Commissioners Montzka, Greene, McMahon and Walker need to do the right thing, finish what Olseen and Kalin have started and fulfill their campaign promises of jobs and prosperity by “bringing the bacon” across the finish line for we, the uninformed.

I am adding a poll to in an attempt to gauge public sediment on this matter. Please vote only once. Thanks, Jon

Jon's Outdoor Power Equipment

2009-08-15T13:31:00.002-05:00

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Jon's Small Engine Repair in Forest Lake Minnesota offers free recycling of outdoor power equipment Repair, Replace or Recycle? Forest Lake. Print ad for future reference Free Recycling of Your Outdoor Power Equipment Fix it for Less; Our shop rate is often half of the other guys. Snowblower Tune Up………….$60 Lawn Mower Tune Up…...….$50 to $80 Roto Tiller Tune Up……………$60 Used Briggs Stratton Motors 8 to 26HP…..$100 to $750 Refurbished Push Mowers……..$50 Up Used Riders…….…………...…$250 Up We fix Busted Snowblower Augers……………………… $100 or Less in Most Cases Engine Overhaul, we do it all. Never a diagnostic charge or charge for disassembly! We quote prices in advance and stick to it! Tune your Rider: $100 & Up; Blades Sharpened, Oil changed, Fuel and Cooling System Cleaned Summer Special Small Engine Repair We fix all brands, many used parts for Sears, Craftsman, Montgomery Wards, Ariens, Bolens, Allis Chalmers, Simplicity, Snow Flite, MTD, Murray, Gilson, Spirit, Noma, Toro, Honda, Snapper, Wheel Horse, Briggs and Stratton, Tecumseh, Onan, Kohler, Troy Built, Cub Cadet, John Deere, Jacobson, Homelite, Ford, Mastercraft, Speedex, Economy Power King, Massey Ferguson, Case, Lawn Boy, Yard King, Yard Man, Ranch King, Dynamark, Roper, and many others.

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County Engineer’s Close Association to Robinson Could Cost His Job

2009-04-26T19:57:00.001-05:00

Commissioner Robinson Moot Point for District Five
County Engineer’s Close Association to

Robinson Could Cost His Job
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

In a special session scheduled for May 1, the new board will determine the fate of County Engineer Bill Malin. In a somewhat odd procedure, the County Board may appoint the current County Engineer to another four year term or may appoint a temporary replacement for a period of one year.

Malin's close association with Commissioner Robinson and former Commissioners Schultz and Gustafson does not sit well with a majority of the new board, fed up with the rampant cronyism exerted by the former board.

Malin presided over the rape of District Three Taxpayers, paving "cowpaths" in Rush City for Commissioner Mike Robinson at the expense of more traveled roads in South County. Malin's salary escalated to $109,000 annually under this "Good Old Boy" arraignment, costing taxpayers well over a half million dollars per term with perks and benefits.

Mike Robinson has no friends on the Board, having alienated everyone with his tantrums and outlandish behavior. Having Robinson in your corner is not a “plus” these days as Bill Malin may find out, shortly.

Robinson argues that Malin saves the County money with his contacts and ability to get “good deals,” as with last summer’s super asphalt buy for District 5 which cost taxpayers over $200,000.

You can expect innovation from this board. Walker, McMahon, Greene and Montzka are not opposed to wielding the budget ax. (Ask Sheriff Rivard) Look for a shakeup at the County Engineer's Office as the new Board reinvents Government.

McMahon's Motion Kills Jail

2009-04-09T19:47:00.001-05:00

Chisago County Board Moves to Dismantle Sheriff Rivard’s “Police State”
McMahon’s Motion Kills Proposed Jail
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Fulfilling a campaign promise, Commissioner Walker moved for a referendum to let the voters decide the Jail Issue in 2010. As there never was any public support for the Sheriff’s plan, the Board voted down the referendum and chose to kill the project outright without further debate.

Chairman Montzka summoned Sheriff Rivard to appear before the Commission.

In a face to face confrontation, Commissioner Montzka instructed the Sheriff as to the meaning of “no.” Paraphrasing Mr. Montzka’s comments, “No can be a sentence, no can be a word, but we are trying to be as concise as we possibly can, there will be no new jail. There will be no more money spent by your department planning for a new jail.”

Perhaps perplexed by the dumb look on Sheriff Todd Rivard’s face, Montzka reiterated, “No” again, as if to ask of Rivard, “Is there any part of “no” that you don’t understand?”

Commissioner McMahon spoke of the movement for Judicial Reform at the State Legislature, which seeks to eliminate jail time from some sentencing requirements, but was very clear when addressing Rivard.

There will be no new jail. There will be no planning for a new jail, until at which time the Board and County Administration can determine when and if funds are available.

By their actions, the Board indicated the need to seek alternatives to incarceration for non violent offenders. Costly jail space must be reserved for the violent among us, those who would harm our children and have succumbed to violence as a way of life. We cannot continue to warehouse our children, our most precious resource with criminals at the County Jail. Doing so merely creates return customers, placing undue burden on the taxpayer. We must shift our focus to prevention, run the drug dealers out of the county, while keeping drunk drivers off the road.

In very clear and concise terms, the new Board left no doubt as to who was running Chisago County. And it is no longer Sheriff Todd Rivard. It was a rare win for Chisago County taxpayers who have borne the financial burden of building Sheriff Todd Rivard’s continually expanding Police State.

Rivard was never much of a cop, but has excelled at good old boy politics, extracting millions of dollars from the taxpayers by any means available. It is believed that “J. Edgar” Rivard maintains secret dossiers on friends and enemies alike to assure a steady influx of cash into his department from those in control of the County Coffers.

However, the new board consisting of Lora Walker, George McMahon, Rick Greene and Ben Montzka are above reproach. With no “dirt” available to “persuade” the new board, a dejected Rivard left the meeting, whimpering into the night like a dog with his tail tucked between his legs.

Rivard is not accustomed to losing. Next up on Rivard’s agenda is the 2010 “Software Crisis.” Rivard is demanding the Board “shell out” upwards of 8.5 million dollars to upgrade the Sheriff’s Department Software. (Chisago City got their software for about 120K) As Rivard is up for reelection in 2010, look for this board to separate the Sheriff from his campaign contributors.

This board, with the notable exception of Rush City Commissioner Mike Robinson, has shown they will take on Rivard and do what is right for the Citizens of Chisago County. Such courage and impeccable character by a majority of Board members has been too long absent from County Government.

Thank You, Commissioners McMahon, Montzka, Greene and Walker for your integrity, courage, grit and determination. Though the road ahead be long and arduous, your moral compass will guide us to better times and a better life for the people of Chisago County.

Justice by the Numbers

2009-04-09T19:35:00.002-05:00

Justice by the Numbers
Rivard, Reiter, Judges Run Up the Score
Against the Young and Poor
Opinion and Political Commentary By Jonathan P. Glassel

In the satirical “Ballad of Irving,” Irving is the 142nd Fastest Gun in the West. “Though 141 were faster than he, Irving was looking for 143.” Exemplifying Irving’s “courage” it would seem our “illustrious” law enforcement duo of Chisago County Sheriff Todd Rivard and County Attorney Janet Reiter take the path of least resistance, prosecuting the weakest of wrongdoers in an effort to convince, you the taxpayer, that jails are being filled with dangerous criminals.

Yet, the Chisago County Attorney’s Office has not sent a felony drug dealer “up the river” in memorable history. However, felony charges were recently dismissed against a known drug dealer in the “interest of justice,” presumably for ratting on his customers, those he has infected with the hideous disease of drug addiction.

We live in a jail happy society. We focus on punishment as a some sort of perverted means of prevention. In reality, we punish only ourselves and our kids. One in one hundred American males and one in fifteen black men are in jail or prison at a staggering cost to taxpayers.

To assure their own reelection, Sheriffs, Prosecuting Attorneys and Judges justify their own existence by filling jails and prisons with less than evil, non violent people, at your expense.
Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter specializes in jailing underage drinkers for “Minor Consumption” of alcohol and other petty “crimes.”In this day and age, a rich kid is one whose parents are still involved in their life after the age of 18. Rich kids don’t go to jail, but poor kids do, with alarming regularity.

Jamie (not her real name) is a pretty, petite and intelligent young lady. Someone you would be proud to have as a granddaughter. She is ninety five pounds (soaking wet) of pure “public menace,” recently sentenced to ten days in the Chisago County Jail by Judge Swenson for underage consumption of alcohol.

Rita (not her real name) is tall, slender and could have been a fashion model in another life. Rita ran afoul of the local authorities and moved to California, got a job and began to get her young life in order, only to be extradited back to Chisago County by County Attorney Janet Reiter, where she spent the next forty two days in our jail, at your expense.

Jamie’s boyfriend, Todd (not his real name), keenly aware that Judge Swenson lost a son to a drunken driver, has decided to waive his right to a public defender, take the prosecutor’s deal and spend the next thirty days in Stillwater Jail at the expense of Chisago County taxpayers.

By entering a guilty plea, Todd has been allowed to choose Stillwater jail. His friends tell him the food and other conditions are much better there.
Butch (not his real name) has been in jail for nearly fifty days. Butch was at his own “going away” party before joining the Marines. Another young man started a fight. Butch lost control and beat the snot out of this kid.

Butch’s Public Defender and the Prosecuting Attorney want to get him out of jail and into the military. The County Attorney is willing to drop the charges, but Judge Swenson refuses and the young man is led out of the courtroom in handcuffs and chains.

Ages 18 to 21 are trying times for young adults. Old enough to vote, but too young to drink. Responsible for their own actions but often unable to comprehend the ramifications of those actions. Seeking equality and fairness, but jailed for drinking alcohol while drug dealers operate in full view of authorities.

As Jamie and Todd nervously await their fate, a lawyer in an $1,800 designer suit and $500 shoes enters the court room. A short time later, a 55 year old man, 6’ 5” tall, weighing some 350 pounds, handcuffed and dressed in orange prison fatigues is escorted into the courtroom by Sheriff’s Deputies to be arraigned on felony possession of narcotics.
The prisoner is cool, collected and unconcerned. He is not a user. He has been here before. He is a drug dealer.

Judge Swenson does not recognize the well dressed lawyer, but immediately recognizes the name of the firm the lawyer represents.

Judge Swenson’s sour demeanor changes abruptly. The Court reporter stops typing as Judge Swenson and the drug dealer’s lawyer embark upon a witty and chatty conversation lasting 3 to 4 minutes. The pleasantries over, the arraignment continues.

The confiscated dope will be sent to BCA (Bureau of Criminal Apprehension) to be analyzed and weighed to determine, if, in fact, it is dope at all and if the quantity in possession results in felony or misdemeanor charges filed against the drug dealer.

Mere formalities as the deal has already been cut. County Attorney Reiter and her staff are completely out classed and ill suited to challenge the drug dealer’s $500 dollar per hour lawyer.
The drug dealer is too smart and self assured to have been caught with a felony amount of dope. In a day or two, he will cop to a misdemeanor possession charge and walk.

Mercifully, Jamie and Todd are absorbed in their own thoughts and problems and do not grasp the significance of what has just happened.

Todd will go to jail, the drug dealer will walk, Judge Swenson will get his “stock tip,” Reiter’s Staff will “high five” and celebrate Todd’s conviction while you scrimp and save to pay for this nonsense with your taxes, unable to prevent your own kids from becoming hooked on drugs.

At the end of the Ballad, “Butterfingers Irving gunned himself down.” The Ballad of Todd Rivard and Janet Reiter will end in 2010 with your support of competent law enforcement candidates in the General Election.

Publisher’s Note: Judge Swenson, after years of jailing Chisago’s youth, passed to his final reward.

Luke 17.2 "It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea, than that he would cause one of these little ones to stumble.”

www.GoodTimesFleaMarket.com

America the Evil? Let's Jail Everyone!

2009-03-29T19:37:00.003-05:00

Why We Must Fix Our Prisons
By Senator Jim Webb
Publication Date: 03/29/2009

America's criminal justice system has deteriorated to the point that it is a national disgrace. Its irregularities and inequities cut against the notion that we are a society founded on fundamental fairness. Our failure to address this problem has caused the nation's prisons to burst their seams with massive overcrowding, even as our neighborhoods have become more dangerous. We are wasting billions of dollars and diminishing millions of lives. We need to fix the system. Doing so will require a major nationwide recalculation of who goes to prison and for how long and of how we address the long-term consequences of incarceration. Twenty-five years ago, I went to Japan on assignment for PARADE to write a story on that country's prison system. In 1984, Japan had a population half the size of ours and was incarcerating 40,000 sentenced offenders, compared with 580,000 in the United States. As shocking as that disparity was, the difference between the countries now is even more astounding--and profoundly disturbing. Since then, Japan's prison population has not quite doubled to 71,000, while ours has quadrupled to 2.3 million. The United States has by far the world's highest incarceration rate. With 5% of the world's population, our country now houses nearly 25% of the world's reported prisoners. We currently incarcerate 756 inmates per 100,000 residents, a rate nearly five times the average worldwide of 158 for every 100,000. In addition, more than 5 million people who recently left jail remain under "correctional supervision," which includes parole, probation, and other community sanctions. All told, about one in every 31 adults in the United States is in prison, in jail, or on supervised release. This all comes at a very high price to taxpayers: Local, state, and federal spending on corrections adds up to about $68 billion a year.

How would you change the prison system? »

Our overcrowded, ill-managed prison systems are places of violence, physical abuse, and hate, making them breeding grounds that perpetuate and magnify the same types of behavior we purport to fear. Post-incarceration re-entry programs are haphazard or, in some places, nonexistent, making it more difficult for former offenders who wish to overcome the stigma of having done prison time and become full, contributing members of society. And, in the face of the movement toward mass incarceration, law-enforcement officials in many parts of the U.S. have been overwhelmed and unable to address a dangerous wave of organized, frequently violent gang activity, much of it run by leaders who are based in other countries. With so many of our citizens in prison compared with the rest of the world, there are only two possibilities: Either we are home to the most evil people on earth or we are doing something different--and vastly counterproductive. Obviously, the answer is the latter. Over the past two decades, we have been incarcerating more and more people for nonviolent crimes and for acts that are driven by mental illness or drug dependence. The U.S. Department of Justice estimates that 16% of the adult inmates in American prisons and jails--which means more than 350,000 of those locked up--suffer from mental illness, and the percentage in juvenile custody is even higher. Our correctional institutions are also heavily populated by the "criminally ill," including inmates who suffer from HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and hepatitis.
Why We Must Fix Our Prisons
By Senator Jim Webb
Publication Date: 03/29/2009

Sen. Webb introduces new legislation: 'It's time to change the law' »

Drug offenders, most of them passive users or minor dealers, are swamping our prisons. According to data supplied to Congress' Joint Economic Committee, those imprisoned for drug offenses rose from 10% of the inmate population to approximately 33% between 1984 and 2002. Experts estimate that this increase accounts for about half of the dramatic escalation in the total number imprisoned over that period. Yet locking up more of these offenders has done nothing to break up the power of the multibillion-dollar illegal drug trade. Nor has it brought about a reduction in the amounts of the more dangerous drugs--such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamines--that are reaching our citizens. Justice statistics also show that 47.5% of all the drug arrests in our country in 2007 were for marijuana offenses. Additionally, nearly 60% of the people in state prisons serving time for a drug offense had no history of violence or of any significant selling activity. Indeed, four out of five drug arrests were for possession of illegal substances, while only one out of five was for sales. Three-quarters of the drug offenders in our state prisons were there for nonviolent or purely drug offenses. And although experts have found little statistical difference among racial groups regarding actual drug use, African-Americans--who make up about 12% of the total U.S. population--accounted for 37% of those arrested on drug charges, 59% of those convicted, and 74% of all drug offenders sentenced to prison. Against this backdrop of chaos and mismanagement, a dangerous form of organized and sometimes deadly gang activity has infiltrated America's towns and cities. It comes largely from our country's southern border, and much of the criminal activity centers around the movement of illegal drugs. The weapons and tactics involved are of the highest order. The Mexican drug cartels, whose combined profits are estimated at $25 billion a year, are known to employ many elite former soldiers who were trained in some of America's most sophisticated military programs. Their brutal tactics took the lives of more than 6000 Mexicans last year alone, and the bloodshed has been spilling over the border into our own neighborhoods at a rapid pace. One terrible result is that Phoenix, Ariz., has become the kidnapping capital of the United States, with more than 370 cases in 2008. That is more incidents than in any other city in the world outside of Mexico City.

How would you change the prison system? »

The challenge to our communities is not limited to the states that border Mexico. Mexican cartels are now reported to be running operations in some 230 American cities. Other gang activity--much of it directed from Latin America, Asia, and Europe--has permeated our country to the point that no area is immune. As one example, several thousand members of the Central American gang MS-13 now operate in northern Virginia, only a stone's throw from our nation's capital.

[ Who are the world's most wanted criminals? See the list »]

In short, we are not protecting our citizens from the increasing danger of criminals who perpetrate violence and intimidation as a way of life, and we are locking up too many people who do not belong in jail. It is incumbent on our national leadership to find a way to fix our prison system. I believe that American ingenuity can discover better ways to deal with the problems of drugs and nonviolent criminal behavior while still minimizing violent crime and large-scale gang activity. And we all deserve to live in a country made better by such changes. Senator Jim Webb (D. Va.) is a PARADE Contributing Editor and the author of nine books, including "A Time to Fight."

Commissioner Robinson Remains Silent

2009-03-08T08:43:00.002-05:00

Chisago County Commissioner Mike Robinson Refuses Comment on Stalking Incident

The Epitaph posed the following questions to Chisago County Commissioner Micheal Dean Robinson of Rush City, Minnesota:

Dear Sir:

A report received from the Forest Lake Police Department indicates that you harassed and made terrorist threats against Lora Walker and her family. The Police report dated November 20, 2007 indicates the incident occurred at Cub Foods in Forest Lake.

You have made similar terrorist threats to Commissioner Montzka, Mark Oberg, Bob Carter and myself.

Sheriff Rivard was part and parcel to your harassment of myself at the Commissioner Candidate's Forum at the Swedish Village Inn in August of 2008.

I am curious, sir as to how you could have known Ms. Walker would be shopping at Cub Foods at that exact moment in time?

Would surveillance video indicate that you were shopping for a turkey?

Did you wait days on end, lurking about Cub Foods waiting for Ms. Walker? or did Chisago County Sheriff Todd Rivard determine Ms. Walker's itinerary by listening in on her cell phone conversations and relay that information to you?

Was the purpose of your harassment to dissuade Ms. Walker from seeking election to Lynn Schultz's seat on the County Board?

It is my personal opinion that Sheriff Rivard is "covering up" a drunk driving infraction for you, based on your refusal to answer previous questions that I have submitted and further based on Rivard's unconvincing denial when I posed the same question to him.

Certainly, I would like to hear your side of the story.

Sincerely, Jonathan P. Glassel South County Epitaph

Reducing Government Abuse of Power

2009-02-22T17:53:00.002-06:00

How to Reduce Government Abuse of Power
East Bay Business Times - by Steve Strayer
Copied from the Web and Reprinted Without Permission

The abuse of power at all levels government in America is widespread and expanding rapidly. The self-correcting features built into our constitutions (separation of powers, checks and balances, etc.) have long ago been circumvented or ignored.

Many government officials now frivolously disregard any legal limitations on their power, since as long as anybody remembers they have been able to do so with impunity.

The courts are supposed to enforce constitutions, but judges and justices are employed by the same entities as legislators and other officials, and thus are driven by similar incentives and generally have similar mindsets.

There currently is no process capable of peacefully reining in government abuse.

The only way the trend toward expanding tyranny can be reversed and our lost liberties restored is through the restoration of accountability in government. To accomplish this goal, we must replace the current incentive structure with one that rewards performance by government employees consistent with peaceful private interests.

Since politicians and officials have become adept at thwarting any efforts at reform via established channels, any effective action will have to be achieved through direct action by private citizens.

How do we accomplish this? By making the individuals who legislate, implement and decide the legality of laws, regulations and government activities individually accountable to the Constitution, and ultimately to citizens, for their actions.

An effective process would be for citizen oversight committees to examine the activities of government agencies for violations of constitutional limitations or other rules.

A committee would notify agency management of any concerns about the legality of contemplated actions, and the agency would then either modify the proposed action to comply with the rules or drop it entirely.

In cases of blatant violation of rules or abuse of authority, citizen committees would have the responsibility to terminate employment of the individuals responsible. The committees would also have the charter to evaluate agencies' overall value to the people and to call for reductions in scope or funding as deemed appropriate.

Any action taken by a citizens' committee would be subject to override only through a popular vote and would thus be immune to reversal through legislation, judicial action or any other governmental process.

This grassroots approach to government reform would offer several side benefits. There would be some ripple effects into areas other than those addressed directly. Once government employees and managers observed the changes in emphasis within their agencies, some would come forward to point out problems and cooperate in implementing other improvements.

Once a few corrupt officials were terminated from their jobs, others would either spontaneously shape up or resign voluntarily. Many government employees would find it gratifying to alter their performance from empire building to the promotion of efficient operations.

Citizens' committees would be composed entirely of private citizens nominated and elected by private citizens. Government employees would not be eligible to serve.

Safeguards would be put into place to prevent committee members themselves from promoting an increase of their own personal power. Perhaps limiting a member's service on a committee to a single brief term might be adequate.

The approach outlined here could be implemented first in California or another state through the initiative process. The alternative to limiting government abuse through this or some other orderly process is the continued growth of government until eventually we or our descendents suffer a painful collapse similar to that experienced in many other countries throughout history.

Steve Strayer is a systems engineer from Fremont. He wrote this for Libertarian Perspective. Reach him through media@ca.lp.org.

Judge's Death Ends Chisago County Jail Crisis

2009-02-07T17:47:00.003-06:00

Judge’s Death Ends Jail Crisis
Swenson’s Final Recusal a Big Break for Chisago County Taxpayers
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

In Cell Block B of the Chisago County Jail, no tears were shed upon hearing the news of the passing of Judge Swenson. Swenson will now be judged in a “Higher Court.”

No doubt Swenson will be eulogized by his elitists friends and “Good Old Boy” Cronies as a great jurist. Those who have visited his Courtroom know better. Judge Swenson was clearly not the brightest bulb on the “Judicial Tree.” What he lacked in intelligence, however was offset by his vindictiveness.

Swenson was a bitter man who waged unrelenting war against, and filled Chisago County Sheriff Todd Rivard’s jail with, underage drinkers. You see, Swenson’s son was killed by an underage drunk driver.

Many years have passed since a “sitting” Judge in Washington County killed a young girl while driving in a drunken stupor. That Judge was so drunk; the little girl was barely recognizable after being dragged for nearly a mile, to her death.

Yet Judge Swenson never waged a “Holy War” against drunken Judges. And if a drunken County Commissioner had killed his son, would Swenson have extracted personal vengeance from other “Good Old Boy” Politicians?

Not likely. You see, Swenson’s path was that of least resistance, preying on the young, the weak, the sick and the poor. Though Swenson was in a position to help these people, he chose to victimize them, choosing instead to offset the pain in his own heart from the deep personal tragedy he had suffered from the loss of his son.

And he did it with tax dollars! Vengeance on a stick, made possible by the blood, sweat and tears of local taxpayers. The trappings of power gone mad, as it were.

Had he been a prudent Jurist, Chisago County Judge Douglass Swenson would have recused himself from each and every case involving alcohol, but that was not Swenson’s way. Judges have no Judges and sit well above the law. It was not that many years ago that Swenson would return to Court after a long lunch, chewing gum like a crazy person, presumably to mask his own problems with alcohol.

Even with the knowledge that impartiality was an impossibility for Swenson, none of his colleagues attempted to reign him in.

Swenson’s decisions have harmed many of Chisago County’s most vulnerable, its youth, opening a door to drug addiction first introduced to them in Swenson’s Prisons.

But the prisons of Swenson’s mind were, perhaps most damaging to the taxpayers of Chisago County, who pay for Chisago County Todd Rivard’s “return customers” first indoctrinated into “the system” by Chisago County Judge Douglas Swenson.

Swenson had a great opportunity to be a “Champion” of the less fortunate, yet he chose to exploit the very people he should have been defending.

Judge Swenson chose poorly.

History remembers only the “Great Reformers.” Many follow a new religion, because of the Protestant Reformation of Martin Luther, Abraham Lincoln adorns the five dollar bill and Martin Luther King’s reformation defined a nation struggling with racism and bigotry.

However, the world will little note, nor long remember Judge Swenson.

In summation, there was little wit about Judge Swenson. Therefore, one can only surmise his conspiracy with Chisago County Sheriff and Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter to fill the the Chisago County jails with less than violent offenders, was an unwitting one.

Take away Swenson’s avid incarceration of our children and Chisago County has no “Jail Crisis.” No need to build a $40,000,000 boondoggle paid for by the hard work and sweat of local taxpayers.

As Judgeships are not handed out in boxes of Cheerios, we can only surmise Swenson bought his. Not with cash, but with a host of “Good Old Boy” favors to his cronies, as is required of the current selection process.

It has long been the habit of Judges to resign shortly before the end of their final term. A tribute, as it were, to the very system that allowed them to “purchase” their Judgeship from the Governor in the first place. An extension of “Good Old Boy” Politics at its worst.

Once appointed, it is nearly impossible to replace even the most incompetent of Jurists in the General Election. Most of these “Lawyers in a Robe” run unopposed as did Swenson, depriving the Electorate of Jurists even remotely concerned with taxpayer dollars.

We, the Electorate cannot tolerate any more “Good Old Boy” Politicians disguising themselves as “Learned in the Law.”

The Judicial Code of Chisago County is Justice by the Numbers. Judges Robert Rancourt and John H. McBride, Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter and Chisago County Sheriff Todd Rivard dispense justice by the numbers, i.e., full jails equal public safety and thereby assure their re-election.

It should be noted for the record that Chisago County has not sent a felony drug dealer up the river in memorable history, preferring instead to fill our jails with Jaywalkers and minor offenders.

Washington County has many prudent and competent Judges. We can too, if we simply take the time to lobby our elected officials from the Chisago County Board, to the Legislature and directly to Governor Pawlenty.

Good Times Flea Market-Hugo

2009-02-03T09:03:00.000-06:00

Obama Deregulates Flea Market!
President Urges Americans to Redistribute the Wealth
Story by Uncle Lars Bob

It has long been the position of Government that “if it moves, tax it, if it still moves, regulate it, if it stops moving, subsidize it.

However, in a startling announcement made before a rare joint session of Congress, President Obama’s plan to deregulate the Flea Market was met with a standing ovation from both sides of the isle.

Unprecedented bipartisan support for the President’s plan is expected.

President Obama spoke, “We must rebuild America’s economy from the ground up. We must encourage the creation of small business enterprises throughout this great country.

We can create jobs by encouraging people to redistribute the wealth that has long languished on shelves in their garages and basements.

The people of this country must be allowed to buy, sell and trade their fleas seven days a week, 365 days a year, well except on Christmas and Fishing Opener, of coarse.”

In ancient times, fleas were transported to market by camels traversing the great Sahara desert to markets near the Mediterranean Sea.

From ports in North Africa, fleas were openly traded throughout known world.

In recent years, due to the Global economy, most fleas entering the United States have been imported from China, though fleas from all countries may be found if one looks hard enough.

The Flea Market fell on hard times during the economic boom of recent decades as it was cheaper to import new fleas from China than to resell pre-owned fleas. As such, many perfectly good fleas met their demise at the landfill.

However, a great many wise investors stored their fleas in attics, basements and garages knowing someone would be able to use those perfectly good fleas, someday.

Though rarely discussed in “polite” circles many leading scientists fear that fleas may be inbreeding.
We all know how that stuff in the corner seems to multiply over time.

This may be attributed to the shortage of “round to its” created by the misguided economic policies of past administrations.

Also at play is Einstein’s lesser known, but most accurate equation, “E=T Squared” which proves time travels exponentially faster as one ages.

The older we get, the faster time flies.

We can remember with great clarity, the events of our childhood, when time traveled slowly. Now that we are older, we cannot remember what we did yesterday as time leaps forward at breakneck speeds.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, Surgeon General Dr. Sanjay Gupta is quietly urging people to take advantage of the down times, finish those projects while “round to its” are in ample supply, get your fleas to the nearest outdoor flea market, rent a booth, get some fresh air, make some money, enjoy the company of other flea marketers, redistribute your wealth and trade those fleas before they can inbreed!

In case you haven’t figured it out yet, this is not a real news story. Its intent is informative humor. Our apologies if we failed to give you a small chuckle. We sincerely hope a visit to our Flea Market will make you smile.

We fix all brands, Sears Craftsman, Montgomery Wards, Ariens, Bolens, Allis Chalmers, Simplicity, Snow Flite, MTD, Murray, Gilson, Spirit, Noma, Toro, Honda, Snapper, Wheel Horse, Briggs and Stratton, Tecumseh, Troy Built, Cub Cadet, John Deere, Jacobson, Homelite, Ford and many others.

Used Parts, Used Snow Blowers for Sale
Call Jonathan P. Glassel at 612-408-0158 or email jglassel@yahoo.com

Key name cities: Shafer, Center City, Lindstrom, Chisago City, Wyoming, Forest Lake, North Branch, Stacy, Hugo, White Bear Lake, Stillwater, Somerset, Hudson, Twin Cities, Centerville, Lino Lakes, Mahtomedi, St. Paul, North Metro, Minneapolis, MN, Minnesota North St. Paul, Lake Elmo, Circle Pines, Dellwood, Oakdale, East Farmington, Osceola, Somerset, Hudson WI,

www.GoodTimesFleaMarket.com

Is Todd Rivard on the Right Side of the Bars?

2009-01-28T19:02:00.002-06:00

Is Todd Rivard on the Right Side of the Bars?
Questionable Relationship with Commissioner Robinson, Missing Records, Damage Sheriff’s Credibility
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Generally speaking, many folks refer to our elected officials as “the crooks in Washington” or the “crooks at the Legislature” right down to the “crooks on the Board or the Village Council.”

What is it about power that turns so many good people bad?

Certainly power corrupts, but imagine, if you will, that it is your job to sit in a room full of cabinets. These cabinets surround you. They are everywhere. You cannot turn a corner without being confronted by a cabinet filled with drawers and each of these drawers is filled with cold, hard cash.

Imagine yourself as a young soldier during the Iraqi Invasion and stepping into one of Saddam’s hidden stores of cash. Millions of US Dollars just sitting there and no one watching.

Could you withstand that temptation? Totally unsupervised in a room full of cash?

That is the life of a Public Official. Never ending, unsupervised temptation.

This knowledge was not lost to our forefathers. Yet Washington, Jefferson and Franklin understood the futility of watch dogging an army of government employees, all with the potential to be tempted.

Instead, our founding fathers freed the press, the media to be our country’s first line of defense against the temptation of Public Officials.

An independent press is the best friend of any honest politician. An open and forthcoming relationship with an investigative news organization reduces the risk of temptation.

Chisago County has not had an investigative news organization, until now.

The Epitaph has developed a solid and open working relationship with The Chisago County Board members, Ben Montzka, Rick Green, George McMahon and Lora Walker.

It can be naturally, assumed, therefore, that those public officials unwilling to work with an inquisitive media may be hiding something.

A conspiracy is defined as “a secret agreement between two or more people to perform an unlawful act. An agreement to perform together an illegal, wrongful, or subversive act. An agreement between two or more persons to commit a crime or accomplish a legal purpose through illegal action.”

Consequently, a Conspiracy Theory can easily be advanced by linking known facts with a common denominator. Should the common denominators seek to suppress and harass the investigative reporter, while refusing interviews, more credence is given to the Conspiracy Theory.

In July, 2006 Chisago County Commissioner Michael Dean Robinson, Date of Birth 11/17/54 inexplicably stopped driving his car to events to which he normally drives. This odd behavior lasted for a period of 2-3 weeks. Just as inexplicably, Robinson started driving again.

According to the Forest Lake Police, Chisago County Commissioner Mike Robinson accosted former (at that time) County Commissioner Lora Walker at Cub Foods in Forest Lake.

Forest Lake Police report dated November 20, 2007 indicates Commissioner Robinson threatened to physically harm Walker and her family. Bare in mind that Walker lives near Stacy and stopped at Cub to shop for Thanksgiving Dinner on her way home from work in Minneapolis.

Robinson lives in Rush City and was not likely looking to buy a turkey in Forest Lake.

According to sources close to the Walker Family, Robinson then followed Walker home, a distance of some 15 miles or so and parked at the end of her driveway for quite some time. Over the next several weeks Robinson was observed by neighbors stalking Walker’s residence. Chisago County 911 was called, Sheriff Rivard was summoned, to no avail. According to Chisago County Sheriff Todd Rivard, no records or transcripts of the Lora Walker 911 call exist, nor do any routine Sheriff’s Department records of the disturbance.

The above events lead to the following questions and subsequent speculation about Conspiracy Theories.

A usually reliable source indicates that Curt Flug, Lindstrom Council Member and former Chisago County District Three Commissioner Candidate, had a conversation with Robinson concerning Robinson’ apparent inability to drive.

Reportedly, Robinson told Flug, in effect, that he would rather not discuss the matter, but that he (Robinson) had quit drinking.

When asked about Robinson’s actions and a possible drunken driving infraction by Robinson, an admitted alcoholic, Chisago County Sheriff Todd Rivard replied after 30 seconds or so of hesitation, “No, no, I would have heard something.”

The Epitaph has asked Commissioner Robinson about the DUI question. Only to be met with threats of lawsuits and further harassment by the Sheriff’s Department.

Speculation has long centered around a potential cover up, therefore conspiracy by a Judge, an arresting officer, Sheriff Todd Rivard and County Commissioner Mike Robinson. It is possible, however, assuming a DUI infraction does exit, that Robinson and Rivard are the only co-conspirators.

It was assumed that only a Judge could prevent Robinson from driving. However, Rivard has been around Chisago County for a long time and probably remembers the old days when Cops were allowed to be judge, jury and executioner. A cop would often hold a kid’s license for a couple of weeks and hold the infraction over his head if the kid promised to be good.

Why would Rivard do this for Chisago County Commissioner Mike Robinson?

Rivard has long wanted a new jail. Having a Commissioner by the testicles couldn’t hurt, could it? Perhaps, Murphy’s Law applies to Law enforcement, as well. If it can go wrong, it will go wrong. Robinson has many enemies. Enemies who noted that Robinson was not driving for 2-3 weeks in the summer of 2006 and subsequently raised the issue to the news media.

The Walker Harassment by Robinson is more troubling as it indicates an escalation of violence on Robinson’s part. A year and several months after the non-driving incident, Robinson knows he now has Rivard by the testicles and knows Rivard will cover up his illegal activities.

For unknown reasons, the stakes seem to be higher for Rivard as he pushes for a new jail. Lora Walker could logically be expected to run against Robinson’s crony, Chisago County Commissioner Lynn Schultz as Schultz’s margin of victory against Walker was a mere 132 votes in 2004.

Robinson’s harassment of Walker was, presumably, to dispense with Chisago County Commissioner Lynn Schultz’s 2008 election year competition.

One can then surmise the stakes become exponentially higher for Rivard as well. If elected, Walker would be the “swing vote” on the new jail. Rivard’s dismissal and subsequent cover up of the harassment incident has not likely endeared Rivard to Walker. A Walker victory in the 2008 election would kill Rivard’s new jail.

Robinson’s “Nazi like” tactics did not work as Walker regained her seat on the County Board by about 500 votes.

It is statistically improbable that Robinson, from Rush City and Walker from Stacy would randomly meet in a Cub Foods store in Forest Lake. So how would Robinson have known Walker would be there at a given time?

Is it possible that Rivard, now in the affair so deep, could monitor Walker’s cell phone conversation, learn of Walker’s stop at Cub and dispatch Robinson on his Satanic mission?

Monitoring cell phone conversations is not illegal. Using information gained from the intercepted call to intimidate an opponent is blatantly Un American and violates all that we stand for in this Country.

It is time for Rivard to meet the press. It is time for Chisago County Sheriff Todd Rivard to open his Police State to an independent special prosecutor for the sole purpose of uncovering the truth in these matters.

The women of Chisago County would like to know if Todd Rivard will offer protection to them from stalkers or if he only refuses to protect female political enemies.

Inside sources reveal, Rivard will provide a uniformed officer, ostensibly to protect members of the board from Commissioner Robinson at each County Board Meeting.

Perhaps, the real question is this: Have these officers sworn allegiance to uphold the law or have they sworn loyalty to Todd Rivard and Mike Robinson?

Sig Heil! Sheriff Rivard.

We would like Chisago County Sheriff Todd Rivard to provide the following information:

Names of all Officers patrolling the Chisago County Area upon dates upon which Commissioner Robinson could have been ticketed from June 1, 2006 until July 30, 2006 and make these officers availble to provide sworn statements to the Epitaph.

Names of all female employees working the “911” call center on November 20th and 21st of 2007 and making said employees available to provide sworn statements to the Epitaph.

Open and honest responses from the Sheriff’s Department could save Todd Rivard’s career.

We hope that those who work for Chisago County and have knowledge or information regarding these matters will come forward in the name of justice.

As Rivard may monitor my cell phone, it is best to contact me by email. jglassel@yahoo.com

Commissioner Ben Montzka Takes Charge

2009-01-25T19:34:00.003-06:00

Montzka Takes Charge
Many Challenges, Opportunities Confront New Board
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

It has been a “Coon’s Age” since Ben Montzka last held the “Chair” of the County Board.

The Chairperson of the County Board is the single most powerful individual in County Politics. The County President, as it were, setting the agenda for discussion of Board Members.

Traditionally, the County Board Chair would rotate between sitting Board Members. This allowed each district equal agenda setting authority over a period of five years.

Lynn Schultz’s election in 2004 ended the status quo. From that point forward, Good Old Boy Politicians Mike Robinson, Bob Gustafson and Good Old Broad, Lynn Schultz have held the Chair, limiting Commissioner Montzka to a dissenting minority.

Former Commissioner Gustafson once swore a “Holy Oath” that Ben Montzka would never again hold the reigns of power in Chisago County. Ironically, it was Gustafson’s “Patsy,” Chairperson Schultz and her ill fated gamble to push crony Sheriff Rivard’s new Jail during an election year recession, that cost both of them their jobs.

“Commissioner Montzka, you have been too long absent from the Chair. Your service to the community as a dissenting voice of reason on a dysfunctional board, though little noted, is greatly appreciated by a grateful County. Welcome Back.”

Commissioner Greene Remains Vice Chair

Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely.

When Commissioner Greene spoke a dissenting opinion against the new jail, Rivard’s Jailhouse cronies, Commissioners Robinson, Gustafson and Schultz summarily cut off road and bridge funds to Rick’s district in an vain attempt to coerce support for the ill fated jail project.

No doubt, the “Axis of Incompetence” failed to recognize the size of Commissioner Greene’s testicles.

Rick’s wife, Randi threw her support behind Lora Walker and was instrumental in achieving Shultz’s ultimate defeat.

“Walk softly, speak softly and carry a big frickin’ stick.”

When it comes down to the “nut cutting,” Commissioner Rick Greene is a proven leader who will do what is right for his constituents and Chisago County.

If you work for Chisago County and you still get a paycheck, get in line and go thank Commissioner Greene.

When Sheriff Todd Rivard and his Jail House cronies sought to eliminate your job to pay for his Police State, Rick did the right thing, despite retaliation from the ruling troika.

“Commissioner Greene, your courage and candor on the Jail issue saved many rank and file County jobs. Jobs that serve the greater good of the vast majority of the residents of Chisago County, as opposed to those who profit from Todd Rivard’s Police State.”

Commissioner Mike Robinson is a Moot Point

As a founding member of the “Axis of Incompetence,” Robinson felt invincible, above the law. With the defeat of cronies Gustafson and Schultz, sole survivor Robinson has rendered himself impotent.

In his demented and delusional state, Mike sees himself as a knight in shining armor, coming to the defense of damsel in distress, Lynn Schultz.

In this regard, and to maintain the ruling coalition, Robinson set out to intimidate former Commissioner Walker, using terror as a weapon, in a blatant attempt to eliminate Commissioner Schultz’s most viable opposition in the 2008 election.

Robinson underestimated Walker’s grit, guts and determination.

Robinson has alienated (pissed off) Commissioners Montzka, Greene and Walker.

His only chance to regain any smidgen of power is to form an alliance with Commissioner McMahon, and George has way too much class to align himself with the likes of Robinson.

Look for Robinson to sit in the corner, playing with himself, for the next four years.

Commissioner McMahon Brings Professionalism to the Board

In stark contrast to defeated Commissioner Bob Gustafson, George McMahon is in it for the people of Chisago County, not his own personal self interest.

McMahon’s businesslike approach to County problems is refreshing, indeed.

Commissioner McMahon has inherited most of Gustafson’s Committee assignments, much to the chagrin of Robinson, as a Commissioner’s power base is often built through his committee assignments.

Gustafson’s manipulation of his Committee power base kept him in power for many years. A fact well know to Robinson.

Though Robinson never squawked about Gustafson’s preponderance of committee assignments, he is quick to point out that McMahon has too many.

However, McMahon’s primary goal is a non dysfunctional County Board, that will better serve the needs of the people of Chisago County.

In that regard, he has proposed a “retreat” of sorts, a team building exercise that will help Commissioners tackle the grave problems facing our county.

Commissioner McMahon understands that disagreement is not dysfunction. Disagreement is a big part of problem resolution. Debate is a requirement of good government.

Dysfunction happens after the disagreement. When retaliations are levied, when alliances are formed to punish the dissenters.

George McMahon knows and understands the making of good government. Look for a non dysfunctional board, if George has any say in the matter.

We are indeed fortunate that Commissioner McMahon chose to invest his time and treasure to become our Commissioner.

“Commissioner McMahon, Welcome”

Commissioner Walker Brings Courage,

Integrity and Honesty to the Board

Commissioner Walker has been sorely missed. Lora’s untimely defeat at the hands of Lynn Schultz in 2004 resulted in a board filled with dysfunction and darkness.

Commissioner Walker withstood “Nazi like” intimidation at the hands of Mike Robinson. A trauma so severe, Lora was hospitalized for nearly a week.

Mike Robinson is an intimidating man. His size, stature and mental defects would scare most of us shitless.

Robinson, presumably to dispense with crony Lynn Schultz election year competition, accosted Ms. Walker at Cub Foods in Forest Lake.

Forest Lake Police report dated November 20, 2007 indicates Commissioner Robinson threatened to physically harm Walker and her family.

Keeping in mind that Walker lives near Stacy and stopped at Cub to shop for Thanksgiving Dinner on her way home from work.

Robinson lives in Rush City and was not likely buying a turkey.

Robinson then followed Walker home, a distance of some 15 miles or so and parked at the end of her driveway for quite some time.

Sheriff Rivard was summoned, to no avail. You see, Todd Rivard needs your tax dollars and help from criminals like Mike Robinson to complete his Police State.

From personal experience, I can tell you how it feels to be scared shitless by Robinson and Rivard. They are an intimidating pair.

In my experience of August 18, 2008 at a forum of Commissioner Candidates, former Commissioner Schultz was a willing accomplice to the “Nazi tactics” used by Robinson and Rivard.

I suspect Schultz was a willing conspirator and participant in the Walker intimidation, as well.

Imagine, if you will sitting across the table from a madman. Imagine, if you will leaving the Chisago County Board Meeting, alone, after dark, being followed to your car by that very same madman. Imagine, if you will the tremendous intestinal fortitude of Chisago County Commissioner Lora Walker.

Hopefully, Robinson crony Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter will allow other members of the Board to escort Lora to her car after each meeting without declaring a violation of the open meeting law.

Don't expect Sheriff Rivard to protect Walker from Robinson. He has failed to do so in the past. Hopefully, the citizenry will take the law into their own hands, attend these public meetings and escort Chisago County Commissioner Lora Walker to her car.

When goodness and light are removed, the resultant vacuum will draw only darkness and deceit.

“Commissioner Walker, Welcome back.”

The Sheriff of Toddingham

2009-01-24T20:23:00.004-06:00

The Lone Recycler, The Lost Episodes

The Sheriff of Toddingham

Story by Uncle Lars Bob

Indeed, in the days of the Lone Recycler, all the King’s men were Master Baiters. The Sheriff of Toddingham and his goon, Occifer Ogre were Master Baiters as was the Duke of Rum.

In those days, South County hath many lakes. And those lakes hath many fishes. The peasants (taxpayers) of South County being duly concerned about fish overpopulation did construct tiny houses on the frozen lakes.

Upon drilling holes through the ice, the peasants lureth the over breeding little menaces to the ice hole by placing a frozen worm on the end of a hook.

The thought of handling this worm was distasteful, so many hireth the services of professional baiters. The baiters procedeth from ice house to ice house baiting hooks for the peasants (taxpayers).

On both days of summer, the baiters would go from boat to boat and Master Bait.

For many generations, the females of South County were not allowed to Master Bait. The thought of females touching that nasty worm was uncomfortable for many and for years the King forbade female Master Baiting.

In time attitudes changed and many asked the question, “If females can be doctors and lawyers, they should be allowed to Master Bait.”

The Patsy of Charles, after an apprenticeship of nearly twenty years became the first female Master Baiter in South County and the King did replaceth Texas Ranger with a Master Baiter, the Patsy of Charles.

But of all the Master Baiters in all the land, The Duke of Rum, was the most proficient.

Now, boys and girls, most people knoweth not that The Duke of Rum was raised by the Indigenous Peoples (Native Americans) of South County.

The Duke of Rum had spent most of his life in a quandry... He felt different yet... couldn't figure why... he was just so depressed. The Duke of Rum went to the Chief for answers... He asked the chief how his brother Red Deer Running had gotten his name...

The chief answered in his typically poetic way..."When Red Deer Running was born, at the moment of his birth, the first thing his mother saw was a beautiful deer running off into the forest... and so Running Deer was named.

It is the custom of our tribe to name the offspring according to the spirits in nature visiting upon the birth."

Then, the boy said to the Chief... And how did my sister "Thundering Bird" get her name?

The chief described again, how at the moment of her birth Thundering Bird's mother had heard a roar of thunder and looking up, saw a bird flying in the sky...

The boy asked again, how his cousin "White Crouching Bear" had been given such a name...

And the chief, looking down once more at the boy, explaining the traditions of their tribe.... White Bear's mother had seen a rare white bear crouched over a stream at the moment her baby's birth.

Then the Chief speaketh to The Duke of Rum, "Why dost thou ask, Two Dogs Humping?"

In those days, in the Village of Strom did dwelleth Pudd, the village idiot. Pudd was long and lean and wore a pink dunce helmet which turneth blue when Pudd was wet or cold.

The Duke of Rum was a bully, perhaps stemming from his time with the Indians and The Duke of Rum did poundeth Pudd.

The Duke of Rum poundeth Pudd in the park. The Duke of Rum pounded Pudd by the lake. The Duke of Rum even took Pudd home and poundeth Pudd in his bathroom and poundeth Pudd in his bedroom.

Indeed, every time The Duke of Rum saw Pudd, Pudd would get pounded.

And the peasants (taxpayers) would ask The Duke of Rum, “Why dost thou pound Pudd day and night?”

And Duke of Rum would say, “One day I will take a spouse. I am practicing the marital arts of Kung Fu, Tae Kwon Doe and Ju Jitsui to prepare myself for marriage.”

And the King was very proud of The Duke of Rum and The Duke of Rum did Master Bait for the King.

And the King saw that The Duke of Rum was the best of his Master Baiters.

And it came to pass that in the third year of our hero’s exile in the Land of Favre, that a mighty battle did ensue and the Earl of George did defeat evil King Gustaf and Texas Ranger did smite the Patsy of Charles, but the Barrister of Integrity bade Texas Ranger to spare the silver bullet and Texas Ranger driveth not the stake into the heart of that vile wench.

And the peasants were sore afraid that the Patsy would arise from the dead to taxeth the piss out of them, once more.

“For the King is dead,” sayeth the Barrister of Integrity, “Let us build a great round table, where men and women of peace will come to tell tales of great glory in service to the people. No longer shall the Great Hall of Royal Buttock Kissing be for the King and his cronies, let all people know that freedom from butt kissing hath returned to South County.”

But the Duke of Rum conspired with the evil Sheriff of Toddingham that tyranny and evil would one day return to South County. And when all came to the Great Hall, The Duke of Rum vowed to pound Pudd in the corner until the Patsy returned.

And the Sheriff of Toddingham was sore depressed, for all the other Sheriffs in neighboring lands had new jails and the King had promised Toddingham his own jail. But the King and the Patsy were gone.

And the Sheriff longed for simpler days when he was just a patrol cop.

The Barrister Prodi of Jewel, was driving home over the St. Croix Bridge after spending a great day out on the lake fishing. Her catch, cleaned and filleted, was wrapped in newspaper on the passenger side floor. She was late getting home and was speeding. Wouldn’t you know, a cop jumped out, radar gun in hand, motioned her to the side of the bridge.

The Barrister, Prodi of Jewel pulled over like a good citizen. The Sheriff of Toddingham walked up to the window and said, “You know how fast you were going, Lady, not recognizing the Barrister?”

Prodi thought for a second and said, “Uhh, 60?”

“67 mph, Lady! 67 mph in a 55 zone!” said the Sheriff.

“But if you already knew officer,” replied Prodi, “Why did you ask me?”

Fuming over Prodi’s answer, the Sheriff growled, in his normal sarcastic fashion, “That’s speeding, and you’re getting a ticket and a fine!”

The cop took a good close look at Prodi, in her stained fishing attire and said, “You don’t even look like you have a job! Why, I’ve never seen anyone so scruffy in my entire life!”

Prodi answered, “I’ve got a job! I have a good, well-paying job!”

Toddingham leaned in the window, smelling Prodi’s fish catch, said, “What kind of a job would a bum like you have?”

“I’m a rectum stretcher!” she replied.

“What you say, Lady?” asked the Sheriff.

“I’m a rectum stretcher!”

The cop, scratching his head, asked, “What does a rectum stretcher do?”

Prodi explained, “People call me up and say they need to be stretched, so I go over to their house. I start with a couple of fingers, then a couple more, and then one whole hand, then two. Then I slowly pull them farther and farther apart until it’s a full six feet across.”

Toddingham, absorbed with these bizarre images in his mind, asked, “What the hell do you do with a six foot asshole?”

The Barrister nonchalantly answered, “You give it a radar gun, a badge and stick it at the end of a bridge!”

The Fine Print

As you may have guessed, The Lone Recycler is a work of fiction. Any resemblence to persons alive or dead is purley co-incedental.

Lawn Mower Snow Blower Repair

2008-11-13T18:39:00.008-06:00

Lawn Mower Snow Blower Repair

Call 612-408-0158 or 612-272-9535

www.Goodtimesfleamarket.com

Small Engine, Lawnmower, Lawn Mower, Roto Tiller, Snowblower, Snow Blower, Thrower and Outdoor Power Equipment Repair in Hugo, MN.

Pick Up and Delivery is available for a reasonable fee.

We repair lawn tractor gear and hydrostatic transmissions. Used riding lawnmower parts, mower decks, running engines, transmissions.

Used Parts, Used Snow Blowers, used lawnmowers, used riding lawnmowers for sale

Free Heavy Metal Recycling

Free Pickup of Outdoor Power Equipment to be Recycled.

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We gladly accept the following running, repairable or junk items at absolutely no cost to you!If your junk items are mostly metal, we can recycle it at no cost to you!Free Outdoor Power Equipment RecyclingRiding Lawnmowers Walk Behind Lawnmowers Snow blowers Snowmobiles Chainsaws Weed Trimmers Bicycles ATV’s Motorcycles Roto Tillers Power Tools Jet Skis Free Appliance RecyclingWashers Dryers Dishwashers Furnaces Water Heaters Microwave Ovens Air Conditioners Humidifiers Commercial RefrigerationSorry, we cannot accept refrigerators or freezers at this timeFree Scrap Metal RecyclingRestaurant Equipment Electric Motors Automotive BatteriesFarm Equipment Junk Cars Electrical CordsStainless Steel Sheet Metal Metal Car PartsSmall Engines Aluminum CopperMotors Transmissions Outboard Motors

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Key Name Cities Shafer, Center City, Lindstrom, Chisago City, Wyoming, Forest Lake, North Branch, Stacy, Hugo, White Bear Lake, Stillwater, Scandia, Rush City, Fish Lake, Harris, Somerset, Houlton, St. Joeseph Township, Lake Elmo, Stillwater, Hudson, Twin Cities, Centerville, Lino Lakes, Mahtomedi, North St. Paul, North Metro, Minneapolis, MN, Minnesota, Lakeland, Shoreview, East Farmington, Osceola, Somerset, Hudson WI, Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Anoka, Ramsey, Isanti, Cambridge, Blaine, Lino Lakes, Taylors Falls, St. Croix Falls, Vadnais Heights, Gem Lake, New Brighton, North Oaks, Dellwood, Grant, Oakdale, Arden Hills, Centerville, Ham Lake, East Bethel, Elk River.

Lora Walker For The People

2008-10-30T21:39:00.002-05:00

Jobs Before Jails, People Before Pork!
District One Voters to Determine Fate of New Jail
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

When it comes right down to the “nut cutting,” Corruption, Cronyism, Good Old Boy Politics and Greed have landed this country in its current economic crisis.

Once again, the many will pay for the greed of a select few individuals corrupted by the power of their position.

The former head of Fannie Mae, a Clinton Crony, extracted 90 million dollars in salary and bonus during his six year tenure.

During the past few years, millions more were passed out to many powerful Senators and Congress Persons to assure the Federal Government would not clamp down upon their “Porkfest.”

The bill has come due, the party is over, and once again, you the taxpayer, pay for the Corruption, Cronyism and Good Old Boy Politics so prevalent in this country.

It is difficult for voters to comprehend the extent of the Corruption, Cronyism, Good Old Boy Politics and Greed in our local community, and how much it costs us.

Perhaps it is not “Minnesota Nice” to think our local elected leaders would “shaft” us in this manner.

However, it stands to reason the “crooks” in Washington learned their “trade” somewhere.

Recently, the Mayor of a local municipality and several local business persons purchased a piece of property in a neighboring township.

Using the power invested in him by the people, the Mayor annexed this property to the city, ran water and sewer to this property at the expense of the taxpayer, thereby increasing its property value many times over.

When their “Porkfest” was uncovered, the Mayor was forced to divest himself of financial interest in the project, an obvious conflict of interest.

Yet even today, the now former Mayor’s real estate sign adorns the property, while taxpayers make the bond payments for the water and sewer improvements.

Who we elect to local political office may be more important than those we elect to State or Federal Office. If the next president screws up, we will hear about it on the evening news, while local officials continue to shaft us in a virtual media blackout or perhaps we have just become immune to news of local corruption.

The most common defense of one local politician goes something like this, “Others have done worse.”

We want accountability from those we send to Washington, we should demand accountability from local politicians as well.

We live in a time of economic uncertainty. Our world has changed drastically in the past month or so. Good Old Boy Politicians and their cronies have landed this country on bankruptcy’s doorstep.

It is time for reform. It is time to rethink where our county and country are headed.

Tax freedom day is May 15. The average person works 5 ½ months out of every year to pay taxes of every sort, income, sales, highway use and a great many others.

Every election we hear of the need to return to traditional family values. Nice thought, but the average family wage earners bust butt just to pay taxes, leaving scarce time, energy and resources available for quality family time.

Lynn Schultz (Lynn-Schultz) and Sheriff Rivard contend the new jail will only cost the average resident of Chisago County about $500 a year. Wishful thinking, if not out right deceptive.

Let us assume for a moment that you spent that same $500 taking your kids or grandkids on a camping trip. Let us also assume that during this quiet and relaxing time, you spoke to the youngsters about drugs and other dangers facing young adults.

If our kids never get hooked on drugs, never go to “Pharm Parties,” and safely experiment with alcohol, we don’t need a new jail to punish them.

Local Government should embrace the Wayne Gretsky theory. Rather than chase the puck, we should let the puck come to us. We need to step back, figure out where the puck is going and be there to catch it.

We need leaders capable of thinking outside the box. Leaders who care about our kids. Leaders who have displayed conservative frugality with our tax dollars. Leaders like Lora Walker.

Let’s return Lora Walker to the County Board.

Get the facts for yourself, call Lora at 651-462-9308.

A “Minnesota Nice” sympathy vote for Commissioner Schultz may leave you feeling “Minnesota Stupid” when you open next year’s property tax statement.

Elect Lora WalkerCounty Commissioner

Epitaph Offers Reward

2008-10-22T07:39:00.002-05:00

Commissioner Robinson Refuses Comment on Drunk Driving Question
And Why it Matters
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Chisago County Commissioner Mike Robinson is an over the road truck driver. A truck driver with a DUI or DWI on his record is an unemployed truck driver.

For reasons unknown, during the summer of 2006, Commissioner Robinson was inexplicably chauffeured to all county events. Events to which he normally drives himself. Two to three weeks later, just as inexplicably, Robinson resumed driving.

When asked by a supporter, Robinson reportedly replied, "I'd rather not talk about it, but I quit drinking."

By his own admission, Mike Robinson is an alcoholic and reformed drug user.

Mike Robinson is an abuser. Mike Robinson abuses alcohol. Mike Robinson abused drugs and Mike Robinson abuses his position as County Commissioner.

Mike Robinson routinely abuses the power of his office and Mike Robinson abuses the trust we have placed in him.

Sheriff Rivard has confirmed Robinson was stalking Lora Walker a full three years after Walker was defeated by current Chisago County Commissioner Lynn Schultz.

Quite frankly, Commissioner Mike Robinson is a bully. In Mike’s world, you are either friend, foe or terrified.

Robinson is convinced his enemies possess a picture of himself and Commissioner Schultz in a “compromising” position. Whether or not this picture actually exists is unimportant.

The fact that Chisago County Commissioners Mike Robinson and Lynn Schultz think it (the photograph) exists is alarming to say the least.

Robinson believes his political enemies possess this compromising photo and seeks to terrorize them into submission.

Robinson’s most common threat goes something like this “I will do to you what I did to (Bob) Carter’s family.”

It is not clear what Robinson did to Carter’s family, if anything. Perhaps in his own paranoid and delusional state, Robinson feels the 2,692 votes garnered in the last election gives him some sort of “Godfather” like power over his opponents. Perhaps Carter woke up with the head of his favorite race horse.

Back to the DWI issue and why it is important. Only a Judge could force Robinson to stop driving by temporarily suspending Mike’s license, indicating the possibility of a cover up as no official records exist.

Sheriff Rivard denies knowledge, yet an arresting officer, a Judge and Mike’s chauffeurs would have knowledge if any sort of drunken driving actually occurred. Which raises the question of who has whom by the testicles.

Two years after the event, a police officer or a judge involved in a cover up would be just as vulnerable as Robinson to extortion.

A forty million dollar jail looms in our future. It is likely that Robinson, Schultz and Gustafson will approve the issue shortly after the fall elections. Perhaps we do need a new jail. However, it would be nice to know we are building this new facility from necessity rather than political extortion.

And that is why Mike should answer this simple question, “Did you or have you, while in office as County Commissioner ever been arrested or received any sort of ticket for Drunken Driving, anywhere?”

Publishers Note: The Epitaph will pay a cash reward of $1,000 for the photograph mentioned in the above story. If you have solid information regarding Commissioner Robinson’s driving, you can email in confidence to jglassel@yahoo.com

These Guys Don’t “Suck”

2008-10-16T18:38:00.002-05:00

Elect Bob Carter
Re-Elect Jeremy Kalin,

These Guys Don’t “Suck”
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Don’t get your undies in bunch or your panties in a wad.

The term “Sucks,” in its original context has no sexual connotations.

Predating the Napoleonic Wars, stemming from our own American Revolution, the term was originally meant to say sucking air or sucking wind, as with the wheezing sound made when a soldier took a musket ball to the lung. Lying, dieing on the battlefield, the warriors of old would hear the wheezing sound emanating from their lung and say, “that sucks, that really sucks.”

When you get the bill for Mike Robinson’s new jail, after you faint dead away, lying on flat on your back, in shock, you may find yourself uttering the same words, “that sucks, that really sucks.”

Forty Million Dollars ain’t much, if you say it fast.

You will get the bill for all the fiscal irresponsibility floating around Washington and Wall Street, can you really afford another 40 million?

Robinson and Rivard need to get realistic about the funds you have available to support a project of this magnitude.

Quite frankly, we need jobs before jails.

I met Jeremy Kalin shortly after his stunning election victory two years ago.

Jeremy was speaking to the County Board about bringing industry and jobs to Chisago County.
As could be expected, Mike Robinson and the Republican controlled Board were less than enthusiastic about Jeremy’s comments.

I, however, was impressed by the honesty of Jeremy’s naivety.

The local GOP leadership is rich and they represent rich people. They do not want Chisago County cluttered with businesses creating jobs for less than rich people. Jeremy was simply wasting his time. His words fell on deaf Republican ears.

Jeremy has worked hard for the folks of Chisago County. Jeremy understands that we are in tough times.

High gas prices mean we need jobs at home. Jobs in Rush City mean more family time.

More family time will keep our kids off drugs. If our kids aren’t on drugs, we don’t need to build a forty million dollar jail.

Bob Carter is the nicest guy you will ever meet. Bob Carter cares about you and your family.

Bob has not asked for my endorsement, nor is he associated in any way with this newspaper.

I support Bob Carter for Commissioner because Bob feels your pain. Bob wants to help you and Chisago County survive our country’s current financial crisis.

Bob Carter will provide honest, accountable representation for District Five.

You deserve better. Chisago County needs Bob Carter.

Get the facts for yourself, call Bob Carter at 651-674-8790.

Land Grabbin’ Don Taylor and Mike Robinson
Men About Town
Story by Uncle Lars Bob

Land Grabbin’ Don Taylor called Mike Robinson into his office in Chisago City one day and said, "Mike, I have a great idea! I know how we can win back the hearts and minds of Rush City, secure my victory over Kalin this fall so I can annex Wisconsin and you can beat the snot out of Carter."

“Here’s what we do, we'll go down to the Wal-Mart, get some cheezy clothes and shoes like most Rush Citians wear, and then we'll stop at the pound and pick up a Labrador. When we look the part, we'll go to a local bar and show them that we really enjoy the town, and show admiration and respect for the hard working people living there."

A few days later, all decked out and with the requisite Labrador at heel, they set off for Rush City. With the dog in tow, they walk into a local bar. When they stepped up to the counter, the bartender takes a step back and says, "Aren't you Land Grabbin’ Don Taylor and Commissioner Mike Robinson?"

"Yes we are," says Taylor, "and what a lovely restaurant you have here. We were just passing through and Commissioner Robinson suggested we stop and take in some local color."

They then order a couple of beers and proceed to drink them down, all the while, chatting up a storm with anyone who would listen.

All of a sudden... the bar door opens and a grizzled old farmer comes in. He walks up to the Labrador, lifts its tail, and looks underneath, shrugs his shoulders and walks out the door.

A few moments later, in comes another old farmer... walks up to the dog, lifts its tail, looks underneath, scratches his head and then leaves the bar.

Over the course of the next hour or so, another four or five farmers came in, lifted the dog's tail, and went away looking puzzled.

Eventually Taylor and Robinson could stand it no longer and called the bartender over.

"Tell me", says Land Grabbin’ Don Taylor, "why did all those old farmers come in and look under the dog's tail like that? Is it some sort of quaint old Rush City custom?"

"Good Lord no", says the bartender, "Its just that someone had told them there was a Labrador in the bar with two assholes."

A “Minnesota Nice” Sympathy Vote for Mike Robinson Could leave you feeling “Minnesota Stupid” when you get next year’s property tax bill.

It’s Time to Forgive Lora Walker

2008-10-11T07:24:00.002-05:00

It’s Time to Forgive
Lora Walker
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Well funded jail supporters propelled Chisago County District One Commissioner Lynn Schultz into the General Election with shouts of “Remember the Libraries,” reviving a long dead issue which prompted some folks to cast votes against Lora Walker rather than for Lynn Schultz.

The library issue was far more complicated than Schultz and her jail house cronies are capable of comprehending. Lora made a decision she felt was appropriate when all factors were considered. Right, wrong or indifferent, land was donated and the Libraries have been built. We have brick and mortar that cost us 6.7 million dollars.

It should be noted for the record that due process was followed and public meetings were held, as required by law.

On the other hand, Commissioner Schultz and her Jail House cronies have already spent $6,000,000 toward the jail with nothing to show for it, except over priced real estate and debt contracted on behalf of the taxpayer. The first shovel of dirt has yet to be turned and we are already in debt with staggering costs to follow.

Haven’t heard about the new jail? Don’t feel like the Lone Ranger. Of the 50,000 residents in Chisago County, 95% are totally unaware of the $40,000,000 jail project planned by Schultz and her jail house cronies.

Chisago County pays about $800,000 a year to house inmates in surrounding counties. This is the crux of Sheriff Rivard’s argument for a $40,000,000 jail to be named in his honor. Annual operating costs of the new jail are projected to be $2,800,000 or about 10% of the current levy collected from property owners. Jail operating costs must come from the general property tax levy and cannot be bonded. The State Legislature has capped levy increases at 3.9% which means other services and county jobs must be cut or new tax revenue found in order to pay the expected operating costs of the new jail.

To cover the cost of the jail itself, you can expect your property taxes to increase by about 30%. In 3 1/2 years, your property taxes will double. Shultz and her jail house cronies seek to cram this thing up the taxpayers behind with little notice or debate.

Lora Walker believes a mandate from the taxpayers, those directly paying for this project, is a necessity. Lora wants you to have a say in how you are taxed and seeks “bang for your buck” on every tax dollar collected and spent.

As with the libraries, the District One Commissioner will be the “swing vote.” At this point, Commissioners Montzka and Green stand opposed to the jail as presently planned. Commissioners Gustafson, Robinson and Schultz favor the $40,000,000 jail. Walker’s election will send the project to a public referendum with support from Green and Montzka. Unlike school referendums, jail referendum’s rarely pass as taxpayers understand one simple fact, better schools provide a return on investment with better educated kids that become taxpayers. Jails, on the other hand provide no such “bang for the buck.”

If we continue to punish Lora for past sins, we cut off our collective nose to spite our face. Lora has evolved and learned from her mistakes.

The fate of large Public Works Projects like libraries and jails must be decided by the taxpayers. Get the facts for yourself, call Lora at 651-462-9308. Call Commissioner Schultz at 651-583-2657.

Tax and Spend Schultz

2008-10-07T07:56:00.002-05:00

“Tax and Spend Schultz”
Lynn’s Loophole, Sticks “it” to Rural Property Owners!
The Legislature Giveth, The Legislature Taketh Away!
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

For Chisago County Commissioners Lynn Schultz and Bob Gustafson, news of the 3.9% cap on property tax increases enacted by the Minnesota State Legislature was like a punch in the gut, knocking the wind from their tax and spend sails.

Most of us saw this cap as a message from the Legislature to the County Boards to get their spending in line and live within the means of the taxpayers. Most saw this cap as a blessing. The Legislature was finally moving to eliminate wasteful government spending at the County level.

Gustafson’s response was quick and natural, “What right does the Legislature have in telling us (The Commissioners) what we can or cannot do.” Schultz concurred and sought to find a “Loop Hole.”

Though Chisago County Commissioner Lynn Schultz and the County Board have known for some time about revisions to the Green Acres tax code that affect many property owners in Franconia, Lent and North Chisago Lakes townships, Commissioner Schultz sat on the information until the week end before the September Primary, not wishing for the news to become a campaign issue.

A good friend from Franconia, an arch conservative and Lora Walker supporter often describes democracy as the right of the many to take money from the few. We do this by electing a legislature to redistribute wealth. The object being to take money from those who have too much and pass it out to others. In a sense, getting someone else to “tote your water” for you.

These Green Acre revisions, this Tax Increase, which places monumental penalties on unproductive farm land, is so brutally unfair to farmers, I doubt any city dweller, the ultimate beneficiary of this hideous burden placed on our rural community, would approve.

However, for Tax and Spend Schultz and her Jail House Cronies, it is a “God Send”, a way to fund the massive operating costs of the proposed jail by inflicting a tremendous tax burden on our local farmers and ranchers. Though hardly wealthy, farmers will be forced to pay for the Corruption, Cronyism and Good Old Boy Politics of the current Board.

Get the facts for yourself, call Lora at 651-462-9308. Call Commissioner Schultz at 651-583-2657.

A “Minnesota Nice” sympathy vote for Commissioner Schultz may leave you feeling “Minnesota Stupid” when you open next year’s property tax statement.

Rednecks for Walker!

2008-09-24T19:26:00.002-05:00

Rednecks for Walker!
Farmers, Ranchers and City Folk Favor

Lora for Commissioner
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

The term “Redneck” originated in the Appalachian Mountains of Eastern Kentucky referring to a quiet, independent, tough and stoic breed of Mountain Men. In the tradition of Daniel Boone, when the smoke from another cabin was visible on the horizon, the Redneck moved further west.

When our fledgling nation was in danger of collapse during the Revolutionary War, a group of Rednecks known as the Green Mountain Boys came, kicked ass on the British, changed the coarse of world history and quietly went back home.

Rednecks keep to themselves and a few close friends, never stick their nose where it don’t belong, but are always the first to offer help to a neighbor in need.

My brother, Dave, who lives in Texas is a redneck. Now, Dave uses the “N Word” with a profusity that leaves his “Yankee” siblings shocked and red faced. Yet my brother would give, without hesitation, the shirt off his own back to anyone, regardless of race, color or creed that needed it.

Such is the nature of a redneck.

A redneck won’t lie to you, he won’t BS you and he won’t steal from you. He expects the same in return. A redneck despises Good Old Boy Politicians and has a long memory. If you promise less government interference, you had best deliver. If you promised to restore his rights as a landowner, you had best deliver. If you promised to hold the line on taxes, yet raised taxes your first two years in office and only opposed a tax increase as an election year ploy, don’t expect to get that redneck’s vote next time around. A redneck is not stupid.

A redneck lives frugally and hates a thief. If you squander $500 of his tax money each month to stay at swank downtown hotel to carouse with a bunch of drunken commissioners, while within driving distance of home, he will consider you a thief.

Best not to ask for his vote, next time around, Pilgrum, ‘cuz that dog ain’t gonna hunt in these here parts.

Rednecks don’t like government boondoggles or new taxes. A redneck lives within his means and expects government to do the same. If a redneck needs to do “something” but lacks the money, he does something else and expects government to do the same.

A redneck knows we can’t afford to jail everybody, so his redneck logic says, “maybe we should jail the drug dealers” that seek to harm our kids, not jail our kids for underage drinking.

After living for many years in Texas, two things struck me as odd when I returned to Minnesota. I did not recall Possums and Rednecks existing in the Chisago of my youth, yet both were here in great abundance. At first I mused that the redneck surely followed his food supply North, but in time I came to realize, we have always been here. Rednecks that is.

When the future of our county is at stake, we will rise to the occasion as did the Green Mountains Boys, elect competent leadership, dump the Good Old Boys and quietly go back home.

This time we will dump Lynn Schultz, elect Lora Walker and return integrity and honesty to the County Board.

Vote Lora Walker for County Commissioner

Bonnie Glassel Demands Apology From Dreckman

2008-09-15T07:25:00.002-05:00

Bonnie Glassel Demands Apology From Dreckman

Malicious Slander of a Public Personality Cited

As a result of malicious slander leveled against her husband, former Chisago County Commissioner candiate Jonathan P. Glassel just days before the Primary Election, Bonnie Broecker Glassel has sent the following letter to Kristy Dreckman, owner and operator of Croix Valley Pick Up.

From: Bonnie Broecker Glassel
2411 County Line Ave
New Richmond, WI 54017

To: Kristy Dreckman
9994 292nd Street
Chisago City, MN 55013
( 651) 257-6316.

September 15, 2008

Ms. Dreckman,

It has come to my attention that you have embarked upon an intentional and malicious campaign to slander my husband, Jonathan P. Glassel. By doing so, you have defamed my children, my family and have deeply embarrassed my elderly parents. You will be held accountable for your actions.

It has been reported that you, Kristy Dreckman, have falsely accused my husband of stalking you, sending pornographic emails to you and you have falsely reported to have a protective order against my husband.

As you know, my husband has never met you face to face, although he did have several telephone conversations with you, regarding business matters some four to five years ago.

If you wish to avoid litigation, you will set the record straight, make public apology to my husband, my family, my parents and the people of Chisago County.

Rest assured, I will clear my husband’s name.

It is obvious from the timing of your malicious attack on my husband, that politics played a part in your malicious attack and slander of my husband.

I feel your attack on my husband may have been motivated by Lynn Schultz, Mike Robinson and/or Bob Gustafson. The fact that you were induced to slander my husband does not relieve you of financial responsibility for your slander.

As part of your apology, assuming inducement by others, you will name those involved in this conspiracy to slander my husband and family.

You have 48 hours to respond or I will file litigation in the appropriate court.

A copy of this letter will be sent to Bruce Johnson, your last known Attorney of Record.

Bonnie Broecker Glassel

_______________________

Venue in this matter may be Wisconson, where the Glassel's currently reside. Wisconsin law allows the jury to award punitive damages when malice is involved.

In other words, though actual damages may be unknown, a jury could award punitive damages to the Glassels since this alleged act by Dreckman is clearly malicious.

The Glassels are expected to seek damages in excess of $500,000.

More "Minnesota Nice" from Commissioner Lynn Schultz

2008-09-11T21:15:00.003-05:00

More "Minnesota Nice" from Chisago County District One Commissioner Lynn Schultz?

The following was posted anonymously to this Blog. The writing stlyle and verbage are indicative of Commissioner Schultz.

"Comment moderation? What happened to free speech, you hypocrite?

You forgot to mention you only got 77 votes, mutt. Dead last! Faith is restored in the intelligence of Chisago County voters.

The good news for you is now you can devote yourself full time to your masturbatory smearing of people voters do see fit to let lead.

It is my sincerest hope that someday your perverted rantings come back on you 10-fold. You hoped only to cause pain and all you ever were - even to the people whose name you dragged through the mud for fun - was a laughingstock.

Seek help Jon. You are a sick man.

Good riddance to bad rubbish. (See, that's a pun...you know...because you are a garbage man.)"

Lynn, thanks for your comments.

Glassel Thanks Supporters

2008-09-10T06:30:00.003-05:00

Glassel Thanks Supporters

Considers Write in Campaign

As expected, incumbent Bob Gustafson will be on the November ballot seeking another term as District Three County Commissioner.

Gustafson will be challenged by big city politician George McMahon. In 2004, Gustafson was earned second seed at the Primary yet delivered a convincing win over Curt Flug in the General Election.

A write in candidacy is always a long shot, especially when facing a well funded candidate like McMahon.

The bigger question is this, "Is McMahon any better than Gustafson? Or is he just another good old boy politican seeking political office for his own benefit and the benefit of his cronies?"

McMahon and Company delivered an impressive primary win, garnering some 600 votes, but can he beat Gustafson in the fall when 6,000 votes could be cast in the Presidential Election?

A write in campaign could send the lesser of two evils into power or return Gustafson for another four years of taxing and spending.

Panic at the Schultz Camp!

2008-09-04T07:12:00.001-05:00

Panic at the Schultz Camp!
Local GOP Leadership Should Distance Themselves from Commissioners Robinson and Schultz
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Rumors abound about an all too close relationship between Commissioners Robinson and Schultz while a cover up of a possible 2006 arrest of Commissioner Robinson for drunken driving looms, ever closer, on the horizon. Either of these could spell disaster for local Republicans.

Robinson refuses comment on the issue, while Sheriff Rivard denies any knowledge of the DUI issue. As such, we take Rivard at his word. If the DUI rumor proves to be true, we must assume it happened in another county or state.

Robinson is convinced his enemies possess a picture of himself and Commissioner Schultz in a “compromising” position. Whether or not this picture actually exists is unimportant.

The fact that Robinson thinks it exists is substantial circumstantial evidence of an all too close relationship between two of the most powerful persons in Chisago County.

Much is at stake for the local GOP this election season. Distancing themselves from Robinson, Schultz and their “Mafia style” campaigns would seem prudent.

Desperation at the Schultz Camp

2008-08-29T20:49:00.004-05:00

Desperation at the Schultz Camp!

Jail Supporters Vandalize, Steal Opponents Campaign Signs
Editorial and Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Chisago County Jail supporters find their fortunes sinking like a rock, diving head long toward the scrap heap along with incumbent Lynn Schultz’s reelection campaign.

You know your campaign is in deep doo doo, when you resort to vandalism and theft of opponents campaign signs.

Both Veronica Korby and Lora Walker have reported stolen and damaged signs in the same block where Schultz signs remain unharmed.

Korby is a relative newcomer to politics and has experienced her first taste of Commissioner Lynn Schultz’s version of “Minnesota Nice.”

Walker has been here before and understands the risk of opposing the tag team duo of Commissioners Robinson and Schultz.

The likely culprit of the vandalism is Lynn's long time crony Commissioner (Malicious Mike) Robinson. Robinson has stalked Lora in the past, though Sheriff Rivard refused to charge Robinson under Minnesota's Terrorist Threat Law.

Rivard needs Robinson's vote if he is ever to get a Jail named in his honor.

But Walker is tough, she can take it. Besides being tenacious and courageous, Walker is personable, witty and charming. When she “door-knocks,” people listen. Lora’s integrity and honesty shine through. Every “door knock” gains new supporters.

Veronica Korby has been making great strides as well, garnering support from many disaffected former Schultz backers.

However Commissioner Schultz is rarely seen in public, is afraid to “door knock,” for fear of having to defend her dismal record of broken promises made during the last campaign.

Jail supporting cronies place her yard signs as Lynn makes plans with Robinson to conquer Chisago County and divide the spoils between themselves and their good old boy cronies.

Lynn’s new campaign theme is reported to be “Corruption, Cronyism and Good Old Boy Politics, Forever.”

Today, South County, Tomorrow the World.

Glassel Meets the Press

2008-08-28T19:36:00.002-05:00

Chisago County Press Questions and Answers

Hello candidate;The Chisago County Press will publish a Q & A voters¹ guide prior to theprimary. Please respond to the following questions and we will print your answers in the voters¹ guide.

The voters guide will run Aug. 28. This leaves the Sept. 4 edition of the paper, if needed for rebuttals or clarifications of Voters¹ Guide content.P.S. There will be a November general election voters¹ guide that will bepublished October 30, but more information will be forwarded to candidateswho advance.

Thanks for your interest in serving Chisago County.

Question 1. Identify one poor decision that the existing County Board hasmade on a specific issue. One that, if elected, which you would make aneffort to move the Board in another direction. Explain what¹s wrong aboutthe Board approach and what¹s right about yours.

Glassel: With so many questionable decisions by Commissioners Gustafson, Schultz and Robinson, it is difficult to zero in on just one.

However, the reversal of a previous board decision in reference to renewing the “Sunset Clause” concerning county participation in the landfill at Mora set the stage for many incompetent decisions to follow.

Lynn Schultz’s narrow 2004 victory over Lora Walker returned “Good Old Boy” Politics to the County Board. All decisions since that time have been made for the betterment of Commissioners Gustafson, Schultz, Robinson and their cronies, leaving the taxpayers to suffer.

50,000 hard working, responsible people make up Chisago County. The County is not the Board, it is not the Sheriff’s Department, it is not the County employees, it is “you,” and you deserve better representation.

County Government has lost focus on the people it is supposed to serve and has become a self serving entity unto itself. This is a direct result of the lack of leadership presented by Commissioners Gustafson, Schultz and Robinson, often referred to as the “Axis of Incompetence.”

Getting elected to public office does not make any of us smarter. To be a good representative, we must listen to the people, for the people are smarter than we.

We must have representation that listens to understand, not to respond.

The people of Chisago County need representation on the Board.

I intend to provide that representation.

Question 2. Which statement most aligns with your philosophy on the countyrole in the economy? The slowdown in the housing market presents an opportunity to step back andcreate environmental preservation and other zoning controls in ChisagoCounty. OR The county should address the housing construction slump byloosening zoning controls and offering incentives to developers.The housing market is so bad, any incentive offered to developers would not be affordable to a already over taxed county.

Glassel: The restrictions levied against farmers in the form of zoning is unconscionable and should be removed County wide. A farmer works his butt off, tilling marginal land and paying his taxes. When he retires or wishes to sell, he ought to be able to do as he pleases without Government interference.

Somehow, we survived from the mid 1800’s until the 1990’s without zoning. Many people fought to keep it out, but eventually succumbed to “city hall.”

Many folks work a lifetime to earn enough money to build a home in Chisago County. These are not subdivision buyers. These are people looking to share the good life Chisago offers. These folks want acreage, though many cannot afford to buy enough land as mandated by current zoning.

Chisago Lakes and Franconia Townships are closer to the Cities, hence more likely to attract people wanting to build on acreage. It is a good opportunity to relax zoning in these townships and let buyers and sellers, the free market, determine what is in their own best interest.

It should be noted for the record, that folks living in town do no wish to deny opportunity to their farming friends and neighbors in the Townships. The zoning ordinances concerning farmland are nothing more than inbred big city bureaucracy that has harmed our farmers and ranchers by denying them a free market for their property.

We don’t tell a farmer how to sell his corn. We have no right to tell him how to sell his land. We all prosper from a free market. Why can’t the farmer?

Question 3. Last year the County Board awarded the legal newspaper bid to the highest bidder; with Commissioners Gustafson, Schultz and Robinson being the majority vote. This was overturned when the county board reviewed legal advice that contracts must go to the qualified low bidder. (Gustafson abstained in second round of voting). Talk about your understanding ofwhat fair bidding means to a democratic system.

Glassel: This action by Commissioners Gustafson, Schultz and Robinson was not about fair bidding. It was about retaliation against the Press.

Commissioners Gustafson, Schultz and Robinson sought to punish the Press for articles written about them by the Press. This was a blatant attempt to censor free speech and cannot be tolerated.

This action by Commissioners Gustafson, Schultz and Robinson was reprehensible, despicable and blatantly un-American. They have a “date certain” with a destiny of their own choosing. Chisago County voters will not tolerate their retaliation come election day.

If we have a free press and free speech, we have Democracy. If self serving politicians like Commissioners Gustafson, Schultz and Robinson can silence free speech, we will succumb to tyranny.

It occurred to me, as I stood next to Commissioner Gustafson at Monday’s Forum, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance with those in attendance, including Commissioners Robinson and Schultz, perhaps Commissioners Gustafson, Robinson and Schultz are pledging allegiance to some other Republic, for in the Republic for which I stand, free speech and free press are sacred and the retaliation of Good Old Boy Politicians will not stand.

When free speech is taken from one of us, it is taken from all of us.

Question 4. As you begin to door-knock and hear from voters, what is an issue people are bringing to your attention? Where do you stand on it?

Taxes and the New Jail. We can’t pay our taxes now, how the “BLEEEEEP” can we pay for a new jail?

First of all, I would like to thank Commissioner Rick Green for his courage and candor on the jail issue. To paraphrase Commissioner Greene, “The walls will crumble, before it (the proposed jail) can ever be filled.”

Commissioner Greene further indicated the lack of support for this project in his District. As presently planned, there is no public support for this project in any District.

This project is a boondoggle of colossal proportions and will become a debtor’s prison for the taxpayers Chisago County.

It will take jobs and money from our hard working, rank and file County Employees, which in turn, will reduce services to the residents of Chisago County.

Six years of incompetent leadership has left the County Attorney’s Office in a complete shamble. It was not thought possible that anyone could be less competent than Katherine Johnson.

Janet Reiter has proven us wrong.

While our kids are routinely jailed for underage drinking, the County Attorney’s Office has not sent a felony drug dealer to State Prison in memorable history, although a local man was recently jailed for five days due to expired license tabs.
Perhaps, it is time to prosecute the drug dealers, send them up the river and stop jailing non violent misdemeanor offenders.

If we run the drug dealers out of Chisago County, drug related petty crimes will cease.

It appears to me, that Sheriff Rivard, County Attorney Reiter and our Judges are running up the score against the young and the poor to coerce the taxpayers into building their very own debtors prison.

This project has no public support, is such a monstrous waste of taxpayer dollars, the motives of its few supporters must be brought into question.

It is simply the wrong boondoggle, at the wrong place, at the wrong time.

If Commissioner Gustafson, Robinson and Schultz are reelected, the jail will become reality and Sheriff Todd Rivard, along with the Commissioners will get their names on the cornerstone.

I propose to erect a memorial wall for every single tax dollar wasted on this project. It will be a large cornerstone, but Hell, we can afford it.

Glassel on Hostile Annexation

2008-08-23T19:09:00.003-05:00

Glassel Denounces Hostile Annexation

It is the duty of a County Commissioner to fairly represent all residents of the District, whether town or township.

Whether we are town or township, we consider ourselves rural and have no interest in trampling upon the rights of others.

Hostile Annexation is a disgrace to the hardworking and intelligent people of Chisago County. Annexation should not happen without a vote by the people affected.

Please also read "Glassel, Gustafson
Likely To Win September Primary,
Carpet Baggers, Land Grabbers, Big City Politicians Not Expected to Advance"

Go Down about six stories.

Glassel On Taxes!

2008-08-23T06:46:00.001-05:00

Taxes/Fees - 2 Minutes

The legislature has capped local government tax increases at 3.9% per year for the next three years. The current County budget requires increases well in excess of this percentage. How do you propose to solve this problem?

The legislature has done us a favor with this cap. The object is to force county government to live within your, the taxpayers, means.

With already high property taxes and the price of fuel and food increasing, many of our residents are also experiencing a budget crunch.

When these folks need to “something,” but lack the money, they get creative and do “something else,” as they have no well from which to draw more money.

There has been no such creativity on the part of current board to cut costs.

The tax and spenders simply go back to the well, raise your taxes and say “we had to do something.”

The wasteful ways of the tax and spenders have come back to haunt them in an election year. Once again, they look to the taxpayers to bail them out.

In tough times, the solution is always the same. If you ain’t got it, don’t spend it!

The various departments within county government must be held accountable for their spending as the Taxpayers have nothing left to give.

The tax and spenders need to understand that the good times are over. It is time to tighten our belts and cut the pork from the budget.

Doing so will benefit many hard working rank and file county employees, that live and pay taxes in the county. These folks are smart enough to know that any pay raise is quickly taken from them in the form of higher property taxes.

We take care of our own in Chisago County. Most county employees are one of us, and like the rest of us, are happy to be employed, knowing that we will ride out these tough times, together.

If the department heads cannot get their budgets in line, I have no problem making the cuts for them.

Do you favor increasing taxes/fees or reducing expenses/services to balance a deficit budget? If increasing taxes/fees, which ones and how much? If cutting expenses, what services would you cut?

Raising taxes and fees is out of the question. The people have nothing left to give.

Glassel on Overregulation!

2008-08-23T06:44:00.000-05:00

In a time before zoning and governmental interference with private enterprise, two well known, local business ventures were established. Sven’s Shoes and Eichten’s Cheese Shop.

In today’s anti business climate, neither would exist.

Sven’s is a classic example of starting small and building as you grow. A close look at Sven’s building reveals the stages of his growth, from a small house to a fairly large retail and manufacturing facility, employing several people.

Joe Eichten’s harebrained scheme has turned into a local legend. From cheese to bison to gourmet restaurant.

25,000 cars, possibly 40,000 people a day drive through South County on Highway 8. All we need do, is remove the anti business restrictions and let our local entrepreneurs take advantage of the traffic count as Sven’s and Eichten’s have done.

We don’t need to waste taxpayer dollars luring business to the area. All we need do is loosen some of the anti-business restrictions currently in place.

If we get government off the backs of our local business owners and prospective entrepreneurs, create a business friendly environment, the business tax base will increase and we will prosper once more.

Agriculture has historically been a major economic activity in Chisago. As the overall economy shifts and changes, we ought not to lose sight of its value to contribute to the overall good of our area. What are some of the things you think we can do to retain agricultural activity and enhance the rural character of the area?

The people of Chisago County are its greatest natural resource. It is our people that provide the rural character of the area.

Many city folks work a lifetime to become one of us by purchasing a piece of land and building their dream with us.

Chisago County farmland, while beautiful and picturesque, is marginal at best, when compared to farms in Southern Minnesota.

Much of our county is better suited to raising kids than corn.

It is simply not possible to subsidize a local farmer to the point where he can compete with farms elsewhere.

We ought not lose sight of the fact that Government does not own this farm land. It is owned by private citizens and its owners know better than we, its best purpose.

We need to get government off the backs of our farmers and let them determine for themselves whether to raise corn or sell pieces of their property to others to raise kids.

Either way, we all prosper.

Glassel Well Suite to be Commissioner

2008-08-23T06:41:00.001-05:00

What skills and abilities are needed to be an affective County Commissioner?

What skills and abilities do you have? Why are you running? What are your priorities? How do you propose to secure consensus from the other Commissioners to implement your priorities?

The Current Board is largely reactive and does not provide the leadership required by the citizens of Chisago County.

Commissioners Gustafson, Robinson and Schultz have controlled the Board since 2005 and are incapable of thinking beyond the box of inbred, Good Old Boy Politics.

A lot of folks are experiencing tough times right now. Tough times require tough leadership. Leadership that will find solutions to our problems. We cannot continue to throw money at our problems. We must find the root cause of our problems and solve them without raising taxes.

The wild tax and spending spree of the current board has placed our county in jeopardy. We cannot go back to the well and force tax payers to pay for the wasteful ways of the County Board.

For any Governmental Body, taxpayers are the collective goose that lays the golden egg. Without taxpayers, government itself would cease to exist.

If we continue this wild tax and spending spree, we will kill the goose that laid the golden egg.

The residents of Chisago County are not subjects to be ruled. The citizens of Chisago County are hardworking and intelligent, requiring little of our government.

If we are to prosper, we must engage the awesome brainpower of the people in an open and honest debate about the issues facing us.

Getting elected to public office does not make any of us smarter. To be a good representative, we must listen to the people, for the people are smarter than we.

We must have representation that listens to understand, not to respond.

The people of Chisago County need representation on the Board.

I will provide that representation.

Glassel Speaks about Township Roads

2008-08-23T06:39:00.001-05:00

Township Roads

It may be a long time before the county can build and pave more roads. The well is dry. If we continue to tax and spend, with no return on investment, we will kill the goose that laid the golden egg, the taxpayer.

As new and more responsible board members get a handle on the budget crisis, the picture will improve.

At that time, we must address the imbalance that exists between North and South County.

It is my understanding that MnDot assesses each Commissioners District by miles of road and traffic count to determine the percentage of county road funds to be spent in a given district.

Commissioners from Districts 1, 2, and 4 bring home the bacon and get their rightful share of road building funds.

For years, District 3 taxpayers have gotten the short end of the stick.

For some unfathomable reason, Commissioner Gustafson has sent way too much of our road and bridge money to District 5 in the Rush City area to help Commissioner Mike Robinson.

Many unpaved Township Roads in Franconia and Chisago Lakes experience far heavier traffic than roads currently being paved in the Rush City area.

In some way, this imbalance must be corrected.

While good roads in all parts of the county do help us all, we must focus on those areas most likely to increase our tax base.

Paved Township roads in South County will increase property values much sooner and will likely attract more new residents than anywhere else in the county.

We need this growth, we need to assist our townships in the road building process.

Traffic Counter Installed on 260th Street

2008-08-22T19:52:00.006-05:00

Walker, Glassel
Make a Difference for South County!

As if by magic, a traffic counter appeared at the intersection of 260th and Olinda Trail, leaving many Franconia residents to wonder, what the “Bleeeep” is going on?

Jonathan Glassel is running for County Commissioner in District Three.

Franconia Township is in District One which is currently represented by Lynn Schultz. Schultz is facing a tough reelection campaign, opposed by the ever popular Lora Walker.

On Monday, August 18, 2008 Glassel made the following statement at a debate forum of District Three Commissioners held in Center City:

“Many unpaved Township Roads in Franconia and Chisago Lakes experience far heavier traffic than roads currently being paved in the Rush City area."

Commissioner Lynn Schultz was in attendance, jumped up and shouted “That’s a lie!”

Undeterred, Glassel continued:

"In some way, this imbalance must be corrected. Paved Township roads in South County will increase property values much sooner and will likely attract more new residents than anywhere else in the county. We need this growth, we need to assist our townships in the road building process.”

Also in attendance was Commissioner Robinson, a close crony of Shultz and Gustafson, Glassel's incumbent opponent in District Three.

The traffic counter, installed by County workers at your expense is intended to prove Glassel wrong.

Once again, Lynn and her good old boy cronies listen to respond, to defend their dismal records, rather than to understand. Franconia and Chisago Lakes Township residents “shell out” both Township and County Road and Bridge construction taxes. The township collects just enough to maintain your gravel roads.

Your County Road and Bridge taxes get spent in Rush City, paving County roads with low traffic counts that benefit only Schultz’s all too close alliance with Commissioner Robinson.

Glassel and Walker are fighting to keep your township tax dollars working for you, providing you with “bang for your buck,” building a better Township, building a better County, rather than paving roads that serve Commissioners Robinson’s favorite bars, pubs and taverns.

Lynn Schultz quickly became a “Good Old Boy” politician and does not represent the people of the County. Her wasteful tax and spend ways benefit only herself and her cronies.

Commissioner Robinson is not the brightest bulb on the proverbial tree and cannot get reelected unless he brings a lot of "bacon" home to District Five.

To maintain his questionable contracts with the County, Gustafson needs support from Robinson and Schultz to prevent County Attorney Janet Reiter from prosecuting him on gross misdemeanor charges that could leave him imprisoned for a year.

Robinson and Schultz have "been in bed together," politically speaking, since her election in 2004 and look the other way as long as Gustafson sends District Three Road and Bridge money to Rush City.

The past four years of this arraignment incumbent Commissioner Gustafsonhas sent about 16 million South County tax dollars to Rush City.

"Bacon" to keep Robinson in power and himself out of jail.

Such are the ways of the Good Old Boy Politicians.

They get the bacon, while the taxpayer gets "porked."

Dump the Good Old Boys

Vote Glassel, Walker

September 9th Primary

Victim or Bully

2008-08-21T06:36:00.005-05:00

Victim or Bully?

Commissioner Robinson Puts the "D" in Dysfunction

Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Mike is up for reelection, which means it is the year of the victim. After three years as bully, as if by magic, the victim emerges.

Once again, Commissioner Robinson will invoke his own "pity party" and attempt to induce 2,600 co-dependants to vote for him.

Robinson will claim to be victimized by the Press, Ben Montzka, Lora Walker, Bob Carter and a host of other enemies, real or imagined. In Mike's demented world, you are either friend, foe or terrified.

Until Monday night's debate, I took reports of Robinson's outlandish, terrorist behavior with a grain of salt, giving the Commissioner the benefit of the doubt.

Robinson had no real need to attend the forum of District Three candidates. Neither did Commissioner Schultz. It was clear from the outset, the purpose of their visit was to intimidate and bully their political opponents.

My father, God rest his soul, was a "dry drunk." Dr. Hovde, who treated my father for many years explained his condition as a "character deficiency." Over the years, my siblings and I learned to compensate for his behavior in differing ways.

I chose not to become a co-dependant and did not buy into the "pity party" for my father, nor would I stand for his bullying tactics.

Nor will I buy into Commissioner Robinson's "Pity Party".

There is but one way to deal with a bully. Summon your inner courage and confront the bastard. Never show fear and you will find that you have nothing to fear but fear itself as a bully is nothing more than insecure hot air.

Certainly Robinson's threats to assassinate Commissioner Montzka, his recent stalking of Lora Walker, threats against the children and families of his political enemies all crossed my mind as Commissioner Robinson blocked my entrance to the Forum.

As I sidestepped his rotund physique, he moved to block me again. And I said "Mike, if you have something to say, just spit it out, just spit it out!"

He let me pass, only to sit in the front row glaring at me. Mike did not know, that long ago, I choose not be intimidated by his kind, not by my father, not by the school yard bully and certainly not by Mike Robinson.

I told Mike, "My kids are grown and live in Texas, there is nothing you can do to them, there is nothing you can do to me." Mike continued to glare as I repeated myself.

Commissioner Robinson moved to a booth and was quickly joined by Sheriff Rivard. Two gun toting, uniformed deputies stood in back of the room.

At that point, I was not so sure there was nothing Robinson could do to me.

You see, Sheriff Rivard has "bitten into" Robinson's dysfunctional condition and has joined the "pity party."

Rivard has investigated Robinson's political opponents in the past. No doubt he could find the location of my kids and grandkids in Texas and pass that information on to Robinson.

It is sad to say, that a man I once held in such high regard has allowed himself to become Mike Robinson's Secret Police.

Sig Heil!, Sheriff Rivard!

Even more troubling than Sheriff Rivard’s descent into “Good Old Boy Politics,” perhaps is the following question:

Who does Commissioner Mike Robinson’s “Pit Party” serve?

Certainly not the tax payer, not the people he purports to represent, not Chisago County.

Proposed Chisago County Jail a Boongoggle

2008-08-19T06:58:00.004-05:00

Glassel Clear Winner of Last Night's Debate

Sheriff Rivard Unable to Intimidate Glassel

Sheriff Rivard, with uniformed Deputies in tow were unable to dissuade Glassel from taking a stand against the jail. Despite menacing glares from Rivard and his cronies, Commissioners Robinson and Schultz, Glassel joined Commissioner Rick Greene in denouncing the proposed jail as an outlandish waste of taxpayers money.

Glassel withstood taunting and other bullying tactics from Commissioner Robinson, but was not deterred from making the following speech.

"First of all, I would like to thank Commissioner Rick Green for his courage and candor on this issue. To paraphrase Commissioner Greene, “The walls will crumble, before it (the proposed jail) can ever be filled.”

Commissioner Greene further indicated the lack of support for this project in his District. As presently planned, there is no public support for this project in any District.

This project is a boondoggle of colossal proportions and will become a debtor’s prison for the taxpayers Chisago County.

It will take jobs and money from our hard working, rank and file County Employees, which in turn, will reduce services to the residents of Chisago County.

Six years of incompetent leadership has left the County Attorney’s Office in a complete shamble. It was not thought possible that anyone could be less competent than Katherine Johnson.

Janet Reiter has proven us wrong.

While our kids are routinely jailed for underage drinking, the County Attorney’s Office has not sent a felony drug dealer to State Prison in memorable history, although a local man was recently jailed for five days due to expired license tabs.

Perhaps, it is time to prosecute the drug dealers, send them up the river and stop jailing non violent misdemeanor offenders.

If we run the drug dealers out of Chisago County, drug related petty crimes will cease.

It appears to me, that Sheriff Rivard, County Attorney Reiter and our Judges are running up the score against the young and the poor to coerce the taxpayers into building their very own debtors prison.

This project has no public support, is such a monstrous waste of taxpayer dollars, the motives of its few supporters must be brought into question.

It is simply the wrong boondoggle, at the wrong place, at the wrong time."

Glassel's moving speech was greeted by thunderous applause from those in attendance.

Land Grabbing Don Taylor Shipwrecked

2008-08-16T20:20:00.004-05:00

Land Grabbing Don Taylor Shipwrecked!

Chisago City Mayor Don Taylor,

State Representrative Jeremy Kalin Opponent

Stranded on Desert Isle

Story by Uncle Lars Bob

In his youth, Don Taylor was the sole human survivor of a shipwreck and was marooned on a desert island with a pig and a bull mastiff.

A year passes and Don's sexual urges begin to get the better of him, and to his horror he finds himself becoming more attracted to the pig. However, his various attempts at a romantic liaison with the pig are thwarted by the mastiff, which begins to growl menacingly whenever he tries to approach the pig.

On numerous occasions Don finds the pig alone and the moment he begins to undress, the mastiff always appears to spoil his fun.

Two days later a ship sails by and Don lights a signal fire, but to his dismay the ship exploded into flames and sank to the bottom of the sea.

One hour later Taylor spots a young lady desperately trying to reach the shore and notices a fin approaching behind her. He wades into the water, beats off the shark with a piece of driftwood and drags the woman to safety.

"Thank you," she wails, "you've saved my life. If there is anything I can do for you, anything at all to repay you, I will gladly do it"

He looked earnestly at the woman as a sliver of salt water trickled slowly down her cleavage and said, "Actually, there is one thing that you could do for me."

The woman looked at him intently, lowered her voice and said, "Anything, anything"

"Right," says Don, "would you take this idiot dog for a walk?"

When politicians chase pork, they often forget about the people.

Glassel, Gustafson

2008-08-16T06:21:00.004-05:00

Glassel, Gustafson
Likely To Win September Primary,
Carpet Baggers, Land Grabbers, Big City Politicians Not Expected to Advance

As the story goes, Curt Flug, during his 2004 bid to unseat Bob Gustafson as County Commissioner inquired of the “Old Timers” hanging around Poik’s Barber Shop in Lindstrom about his chances of winning the election.

One of the “Old Timers” reportedly replied, “With a name like Flug, you couldn’t get elected dogcatcher in this county. If you changed your name to Flugson or Flugberg, you just might get yourself elected dogcatcher.”

In reality, it is not the lack of a Scandinavian surname that defeated Flug. We regularly elect people with such odd names as Montzka, Reiter, Rueter, Greene and Walker to public office.

In 2004, Flug won the Primary with about 400 votes to Gustafson’s 350, yet Flug got clobbered in the General Election, losing to a scandal plagued Bob Gustafson by 1,000 votes when 5,000 votes were cast.

Flug did Ok in some areas, however, when it came down to the “nut cutting” the locals held their collective noses and re-elected Gustafson, the candidate with local roots.

Glassel and Gustafson were raised and attended school locally. Flug and the other candidates are relative newcomers to the area, and without local roots, or a concept of what it means to be local, will have difficulty selling themselves to the vast majority of residents within the district, whether those residents live in town or in the township.

98% of the people who have moved to Chisago County did so to escape the inbred bureaucracy of big city life. They adopt, and are adopted by the local residents, quickly becoming one of “us.” The remaining 2% are intent upon bringing the inbred bureaucracy of the big city to us local “hicks” and become one of “them.”

While Glassel is clearly one of “us,” Gustafson was a “no show” when Lindstrom businesses needed protection from “them,” i.e. Flug and Company. Gustafson is a savvy career politician, wants to keep his job and is not about to enrage the “whining minority” that controls City Hall by taking a stand for “us”.

We have good quality of life in Chisago County. While our villages and countryside are beautiful and picturesque, it is the tough, resilient and independent nature of our residents that gives our community its “rural flair.”

This fact is totally lost on Flug and the others who seek to saddle “us” with more inbred, big city bureaucracy.

Unfortunately, it is our rural nature that keeps “us” out of politics and allows “them” to gain power. 98% of us live in Chisago County because we mind our own business and don’t like being told what to do.

Consequently we abhor the thought of “sticking our nose where it don’t belong” by telling others what to do or what not to do. So, we stay out of politics, leaving ourselves vulnerable to the Carpet Baggers, Land Grabbers and Big City Politicians.

Not so long ago, a Carpet Bagger came from the West. Coveting his neighbor’s property and tax base, the Land Grabber “sucked up” to the local purveyors of inbred bureaucracy and became Mayor of Chisago City.

The unsuspecting residents of Wyoming Township had built a quiet, peaceful and profitable community without help from the inbred elite. Taxes were low, services were good and all was well.

Chris DuBose brought strange new words to us country “hicks.” Hostile and Annexation. While annexation was nothing new, to force one’s will upon another was, for lack of a better word, hostile and did not sit well with a majority of the locals.

Most of us living in Chisago County, whether living in town or township, consider ourselves “Country.” We “tote our own water.” Excepting when a neighbor needs help, we stick to ourselves and stay out of politics.
DuBose knew this and used our “rural flair” against us. With chicanery, lawyers and the courts, most of Wyoming Township was annexed to Chisago without a vote by the people affected.

After annexing an area larger than itself, over the objections of both city and township residents, DuBose wisely chose not to seek reelection as Mayor. After a two year hiatus from elected office, DuBose now seeks to abuse power while representing us “country hicks” at the county level.

Pilgrim, that dog ain’t gonna hunt in these here parts!

During the past 18 years, Gustafson has built his power base by handing out millions of your tax dollars to few select governmental and quasi governmental agencies.

If God, Himself was running for County Commissioner in District Three, “Boondoggle” Bob Gustafson would still get 300 votes at the primary.

The 2%, the inbred elitists may be able to coerce 600 people to vote for Flug, DuBose, McMahon or Stignani leaving Glassel to find just 300 new voters.

Flug, DuBose, McMahon or Stignani cannot defeat Gustafson in November, leaving “us” to endure four more years of the stench of “Good Ole Boy” Politics.

You Can do something about it, vote for Glassel at the Primary on September 9th.

Glassel Stands For Chisago County, Glassel Stands for You!
Will You Stand With Glassel on September 9th?

Just 300 Votes Will Return Chisago County to You!
Together, we will build a better county
for our children and our children’s children.

I’m Jonathan P. Glassel, and I approved this message. Actually, as most of you know, I wrote it, too.

What the “BLEEEEEEP” Does a County Commissioner Do?

2008-08-16T06:17:00.001-05:00

What the “BLEEEEEEP” Does a County Commissioner Do?
Story by Uncle Lars Bob

Chisago County has 50,000 residents. The County is divided into five Districts of about 10,000 people each.

Each District elects one representative, called a County Commissioner to the Board of Commissioners.

Basically, the County Board is a legislative body. As with any legislative body, its main purpose is the redistribution of wealth. In other words, it takes money from you and gives it to someone else.

The taxpayers hire (elect) five ordinary schmucks to take about 56 million hard earned dollars away from you, and spend it.

The current board consists of a truck driver, a career politician, a lawyer and two farmers.

As you might guess, a commissioner is like a guy who just won the lottery. He has many friends, all of whom want your taxpayer dollars.

These friends are known as lobbyists and are already paid by you, the taxpayer, to run various departments in County Government.

As you might guess, every department head wants to bring home the “bacon.”

As a Commissioner, this is the perfect opportunity to extract politic loyalty from the department heads, by giving your tax dollars to them.

This builds a Commissioner’s political power base to assure his or her own reelection.

As a Commissioner, it is very important to gain the favor of the County Attorney and the Sheriff.

If you think the County Attorney may prosecute you for your illegal contracts with the County, you should give her a big raise to assure her loyalty.

If the Sheriff is covering up your arrest for drunken driving, you may have to build a new forty million dollar jail to keep him on your side. After all, a DUI could be disastrous for your political career.

However, the Sheriff and County Attorney are at your disposal should you need to investigate, intimidate, harass or prosecute your political enemies.

A Commissioner is paid twenty seven grand a year. Not bad for a part time gig. You also get paid mileage and per diem for every county function you attend, plus free medical and dental coverage and a pension, all paid for by the taxpayer.

But the biggest perk is the monthly MCA (Minnesota County Association) meetings.

You actually get paid to attend a drunken orgy. The taxpayers pay for the County’s membership and you get free booze, all you can drink.

Of coarse, you wouldn’t want to risk another DUI, so you stay in the swankiest downtown hotels and run up a $500 tab on your County Credit card.

It’s also a good time to escape the “old ball and chain,” carry on extramarital affairs and spend some quality time with other drunken commissioners at the expense of the taxpayers.

But the best part of being a commissioner is the retaliation you can levy against your opponent’s supporters.

You get to instruct the tax assessor to reevaluate the property of all those folks foolish enough to put out yard signs for your opponents. To the victor goes the spoils.
I wish I could find a punch line for this story, but it’s really not very funny, is it?

Return Integrity to the County Board

Vote for Glassel on September 9th.

Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter Prosecutes Underage Drinkers as

2008-08-04T20:33:00.002-05:00

County Wastes Your Money Jailing Teens
Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter

Prosecutes Underage Drinkers

asDrug Dealers Go Free
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

We live in a jail happy society. We focus on punishment as a some sort of perverted means of prevention.

In reality, we punish only ourselves and our kids.

One in one hundred American males and one in fifteen black men are in jail or prison at a staggering cost to taxpayers.

To assure their own reelection, Sheriffs, Prosecuting Attorneys and Judges justify their own existence by filling jails and prisons with less than evil, non violent people, at your expense.

Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter specializes in jailing underage drinkers.

We are being asked to fund a Forty Million Dollar jail to house teenagers for “Minor Consumption” and other petty “crimes”.

In this day and age, a rich kid is one whose parents are still involved in their life after the age of 18.

Rich kids don’t go to jail, but poor kids do, with alarming regularity.

Jamie (not her real name) is a pretty, petite and intelligent young lady. Someone you would be proud to have as a granddaughter.

She is ninety five pounds (soaking wet) of pure “public menace,” recently sentenced to ten days in the Chisago County Jail by Judge Swenson for underage consumption of alcohol.

Rita (not her real name) is tall, slender and could have been a fashion model in another life. Rita ran afoul of the local authorities and moved to California, got a job and began to get her young life in order, only to be extradited back to Chisago County by County Attorney Janet Reiter, where she spent the next forty two days in our jail, at your expense.

Jamie’s boyfriend, Todd (not his real name), keenly aware that Judge Swenson lost a son to a drunken driver, has decided to waive his right to a public defender, take the prosecutor’s deal and spend the next thirty days in Stillwater Jail at the expense of Chisago County taxpayers. By entering a guilty plea, Todd has been allowed to choose Stillwater jail. His friends tell him the food and other conditions are much better there.

Butch (not his real name) has been in jail for nearly fifty days. Butch was at his own “going away” party before joining the Marines. Another young man started a fight. Butch lost control and beat the snot out of this kid.

Butch’s Public Defender and the Prosecuting Attorney want to get him out of jail and into the military. The County Attorney is willing to drop the charges, but Judge Swenson refuses and the young man is led out of the courtroom in handcuffs and chains.

Ages 18 to 21 are trying times for young adults. Old enough to vote, but too young to drink. Responsible for their own actions but often unable to comprehend the ramifications of those actions. Seeking equality and fairness, but jailed for drinking alcohol while drug dealers operate in full view of authorities.

As Jamie and Todd nervously await their fate, a lawyer in an $1,800 designer suit and $500 shoes enters the court room. A short time later, a 55 year old man, 6’ 5” tall, weighing some 350 pounds, handcuffed and dressed in prison orange fatigues is escorted into the courtroom by Sheriff’s Deputies to be arraigned on felony possession of narcotics.

The prisoner is cool, collected and unconcerned. He is not a user. He has been here before. He is a drug dealer.

Judge Swenson does not recognize the well dressed lawyer, but immediately recognizes the name of the firm the lawyer represents. Judge Swenson’s sour demeanor changes abruptly. The Court reporter stops typing as Judge Swenson and the drug dealer’s lawyer embark upon a witty and chatty conversation lasting 3 to 4 minutes. The pleasantries over, the arraignment continues.

The confiscated dope will be sent to BCA (Bureau of Criminal Apprehension) to be analyzed and weighed to determine, if, in fact, it is dope at all and if the quantity in possession results in felony or misdemeanor charges filed against the drug dealer.

Mere formalities as the deal has already been cut. County Attorney Reiter and her staff are completely out classed and ill suited to challenge the drug dealer’s $500 dollar per hour lawyer.

The drug dealer is too smart and self assured to have been caught with a felony amount of dope.

In a day or two, he will cop to a misdemeanor possession charge and walk.

Mercifully, Jamie and Todd are absorbed in their own thoughts and problems and do not grasp the significance of what has just happened.

Todd will go to jail, the drug dealer will walk, Judge Swenson will get his stock tip, Reiter’s Staff will “high five” and celebrate Todd’s conviction while you scrimp and save to pay for it all through your taxes, while your kids get hooked on drugs.

And the wheels of injustice continue to turn in Chisago County.

Are You Smarter Than Curt Flug?

2008-07-30T21:24:00.000-05:00

Are You Smarter than Curt Flug?
Editorial, Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

50,000 people reside in Chisago County. And, yes, we are smarter than any politician. The collective brain power of the electorate far surpasses any five people we may elect to the County Board or City Council.

Democracy and self determination have taken a “hit” in Chisago County in recent years. Don Taylor, the former champion of the Wyoming Township anti-annexation crusade became mayor of Chisago City and immediately embarked on the forced annexation of the remainder of Wyoming Township.

Wyoming Township is not a third world country that needs to be led into this century. Nor should their fate be dictated by “Land Grabbing” Don Taylor and the Courts.

Prior to the bold American experiment with Democracy, mankind had been ruled by Kings, Queens and nobility since the dawn of intelligence.

Claiming Divine Providence, the inbred rulers of Europe waged war upon each other for centuries. With the discovery of America, the best and the brightest left their homeland to establish roots in the new country.

A country where the cream was allowed to rise to the top. A country where a person could achieve great things despite a low birth.

Perhaps, that is why Daniel Lindstrom left Sweden and founded this town which bears his name.

I can imagine Arvid Victor (Keith Carlson’s Grandfather) standing next to Daniel Lindstrom, turning the first shovel of dirt in founding the City of Lindstrom. I can also imagine Arvid Victor rolling over in his grave as his Grandson drives the final nail into its coffin.

Our founding fathers, whether they be Washington or Jefferson, Arvid Victor or Daniel Lindstrom knew the value and profited from the right of self determination.

A right forcibly removed from the business owners and people of Lindstrom by Curt Flug and Keith Carlson.

Forcing the cream to the bottom is an unnatural act which defies American democracy.

We need the best and the brightest, our local entrepreneurs, to succeed, to create jobs, to spur our local economy and to grow our community.

We need representatives of the people, not autocratic rule.

Curt Flug had the opportunity to represent the people and businesses of Lindstrom.

Instead he chose to rule.

Curt Flug chose poorly.

By defying the awesome political power of Lindstrom business while seeking higher office, Curt became his own worst enemy and may have ended his own political career.

Men About Town

2008-07-30T21:21:00.001-05:00

Curt Flug, Keith Carlson
Men About Town
Story by Uncle Lars Bob

Curt Flug called Keith Carlson into his office one day and said, "Keith, I have a great idea! I know how we can win back the hearts and minds of Lindstrom, secure my victory over Gustafson this fall and you can get your County bonding business back."
“Here’s what we do, we'll go down to the Wal-Mart, get some cheezy clothes and shoes like most Lindstomites wear, and then we'll stop at the pound and pick up a Labrador. When we look the part, we'll go to the Swedish Inn and show them that we really enjoy the town, and show admiration and respect for the hard working people living there."

A few days later, all decked out and with the requisite Labrador at heel, they set off for the Swedish Inn. With the dog in tow, they walk into the restaurant. When they stepped up to the counter, Mike takes a step back and says, "Aren't you Curt Flug and Keith Carlson?"

"Yes we are," says Curt, "and what a lovely restaurant you have here. We were just passing through and Keith suggested we stop and take in some local color."

They then order a couple of beers and proceed to drink them down, all the while, chatting up a storm with anyone who would listen.

All of a sudden... the restaurant door opens and a grizzled old farmer comes in. He walks up to the Labrador, lifts its tail, and looks underneath, shrugs his shoulders and walks out the door.

A few moments later, in comes another old farmer... walks up to the dog, lifts its tail, looks underneath, scratches his head and then leaves the bar.

Over the course of the next hour or so, another four or five farmers came in, lifted the dog's tail, and went away looking puzzled.

Eventually Curt and Keith could stand it no longer and called the proprietor over.

"Tell me", says Curt, "why did all those old farmers come in and look under the dog's tail like that? Is it some sort of quaint old Lindstrom custom?"

"Good Lord no", says Mike, "Its just that someone had told them there was a Labrador in this restaurant with two assholes!"

Publishers Note: Another piece of MnDot came crashing down over the week end, a year after the fatal I 35 Mississippi Bridge collapse. Fortunately no one was killed this time. Perhaps MnDot should maintain and repair our crumbling infrastructure rather than spending eleven million of your tax dollars so fix something that ain’t broke.

Don’t Mess With Lindstrom!

You Can Do Something About “It”
Vote Glassel for Commissioner

Lindstrom Businesses

2008-07-30T21:18:00.002-05:00

Lindstrom Businesses Continue
Fight with City Hall, Support
Glassel For Commissioner
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

A tornado ripping down Highway 8 from the Dinner Bell to the Dairy Queen would have caused less devastation to Lindstrom businesses than the unanimous decision by Mayor Keith Carlson, and the City Council to pave over the hopes and dreams of the remaining entrepreneurs in a dying town.

Death by design. The first step of transforming our unique community into the preplanned mediocrity of a modern city, our leaders seek to kill the old Lindstrom to make room for the new.

Flug and Company, over the objections of nearly every business owner in town, have cleared the way for an Eleven Million Dollar Boondoggle in the name of Highway 8 improvement. Progress for the sake of progress. Progress that may well transform “America’s Little Sweden” into Woodbury.

While Keith Carlson and Curt Flug have knocked business owners down, they are not out.

Don’t change your address labels to Woodstrom or Lindbury just yet.

In dealing with City Hall, Lindstrom’s entrepreneurs have learned the only way to fight City Hall, is to become City Hall.

Three years will pass before construction begins. Two Council seats are up for grabs this fall, Curt Flug could be recalled and the Mayor could be removed in 2009.

Overturning a previous Council’s decision is not without precedent in local politics. In 2005, County Commissioners Gustafson, Robinson and Schultz overturned a 2004 decision by Commissioners Montzka, Olseen and Walker designed to end county involvement at the landfill in Mora.

Had Lindstrom been ravaged by a natural disaster, aid to rebuild would have come from all over the country. The President and the Governor would have flown over in helicopters, local politicians would have been interviewed by Fox and you would know of the disaster. But when the disaster is caused by the personal self interests of elected officials, Lindstrom business owners must fend for themselves and elect competent leaders to correct an injustice perpetrated against them and the citizens of Lindstrom by Flug and Carlson.

Vote Glassel for County Commissioner

District One Commissioner's Race

2008-07-16T06:59:00.007-05:00

Tough Times Bring Talented Trio

To Commissioner’s Race

Korby, Larson, Walker Seek to

Represent District One at Commissioners Court
Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

It is an ill wind that blows no good, there is a silver lining behind every cloud. Politics, as nature abhors a vacuum and great leaders will arise when there is a great need.

Chisago County is in great need of new and progressive leadership. Leaders with the dedication, energy, enthusiasm and vision to address the challenges facing us today. Leaders with the intellect to build a better county for our children and our children’s children. Leaders willing to expend the time and effort to solve our problems, rather than throw taxpayer money at our problems.

Korby, Larson and Walker are a breath of fresh air to local politics.

Dedicated, intelligent and hardworking , each Candidate brings their own unique vision of Chisago County to the electorate, united by the common goal of building a better county through solid lead leadership.

It is the tough times, the pain felt by many of Chisago County’s citizens that prompted Korby, Larson and Walker to devote their time, treasure and talent to the people of Chisago County.

We need all three of these candidates in service to the county.

Unfortunately, we can choose only one.

You can do something about it, vote for solid leadership, rather than politics as usual!

VERONICA KORBY Veronica4Commissioner@gmail.com
RANDY S. LARSON rs14204@hotmail.com
LORA WALKER lorawalker@hotmail.com

County at Crossroads--Part One

2008-06-23T06:10:00.002-05:00

Chisago County, At The Crossroads—Part One

Glassel-Solid Leadership for Tough Times

County Board Goes Back to the “Well” One Too Many Times!

For many of our friends and neighbors in Chisago County, the well has run dry.

$4.00 per gallon gasoline has stretched family budgets to the breaking point. Many young families are leaving the good life in Chisago and returning to the city, unable to absorb the double whammy of high commuting costs and the runaway taxing and spending of the current Board.

If we allow the current Board to “drive away” our young people through over taxation, those remaining will bear the burden of today’s reckless spending.

Truly “Sustainable Communities” begin with jobs at home. This fact is totally lost on the current Board whose allegiance lies with the elite. The elite of Chisago County have long seen our community as residential and have openly discouraged local business.

Well and good, perhaps, when gas was $2.00 a gallon. Now that gas has topped $4.00 and is headed toward $5.00, we need local business to employ at least one spouse in every young family, saving the long, tedious and expensive commute to the Twin Cities.

We can build a stronger and better community. We have a unique opportunity to change the future of Chisago County for the better, without increasing taxes.

Commissioners Gustafson, Robinson and Schultz are up for reelection.

Chisago County deserves better representation than Gustafson, Robinson and Schultz have provided.

Commissioners who will work for the community at large, the people of Chisago County rather than their own personal interests and the special interests of the elite.

Get involved in this election, your future depends upon it. Force your candidate to take the “No Levy Increase” Pledge. Support those candidates who will think “outside the box” to build a better community without raising taxes.

You can help us spread the word. Please refer your friends to this website. If you can help with printing and mailing costs of this newspaper, we can get our message to all in Chisago County.

Please send what you can to South County Epitaph, P.O. Box 328, Chisago County, MN 55013.

You can do something about it!
Vote Glassel for Commissioner!

While-U-Wait Lawnmower Repair

2008-06-21T05:15:00.009-05:00

While-U-Wait Lawnmower Repair

While-U-Wait Lawn Mower Repair

Pick Up and Delivery is available in Shafer, Center City,Lindstrom, Chisago City, Wyoming, Forest Lake, North Branch, Stacy, Hugo, White Bear Lake, Stillwater, Somerset, Hudson, Twin Cities, Centerville, Lino Lakes, Mahtomedi, St. Paul, North Metro, Minneapolis, MN, Minnesota
East Farmington, Osceola, WI,

**Free Recycling of Outdoor Power Equipment**

Hi, my name is Jonathan P. Glassel. Just a guess, but I am probably the only candidate running for Chisago County Commissioner that can repair your lawnmower. If that lawnmower won't run, please consider repair before replacement.

A new lawnmower requires a barrel or more of oil and the resultant production of greenhouse gases in its manufacture. The typical lawnmower repair requires about a trillioneth of a barrel of oil for the small plastic parts that need replacing.

Repair and purchase of used equipment places little demand on the world's already scarce resources and lowers demand on oil reserves while reducing greenhouse gases.
Riding Lawnmower Repair

The cost for typical walk behind repair includes tune-up, oil change and blade sharpening for about $50 on Briggs & Stratton "Sprint" Engines, $60 on most Tecumseh engines and $70 on Briggs Quattro engines.

We always quote a price in advance and stick to it. We never charge for an estimate or disassembly for inspection. If your equipment is not worth repair, we will recycle it for you at no charge, if you wish.

We also repair riders, in many cases with used parts to keep costs reasonable. We have used engines, transmissions and complete mower decks.

Used Lawn Mowers for Sale--$40 to $100, Rider $200 & Up.
Used Engines 8 HP to 20 HP Briggs, Kohler, Tecumseh
Used lawnmower parts
Free Pickup of Your Scrap Metals
Call 612-272-9535
Open 7 Days a Week
Vote Glassel for County Commissioner

County Attorney Dumps Dems

2008-06-21T05:15:00.007-05:00

County Attorney Dumps Democrats

“Born Again” Reiter Joins GOP
Story by Uncle Lars Bob

We are reporting live from the Chisago County Republican Convention. This year’s event is at a secret location southwest of Almelund.

Security is tight. All members of the local media have been blindfolded since leaving Lindstrom. Also invited to this year’s event are Matt and Denise.

Joining us at the media suite is County Attorney Janet Reiter who has just announced to this stunned crowd of GOP Elitists, her decision to “invoke Republicanism.” Janet’s entourage includes Assistant County Attorneys Beth, Jessica and Kristine.

Commissioner Mike Robinson has just delivered the keynote address and has bored this crowd into a zombie like state. They’re chanting something, we can’t quite make it out from here. Matt, can you tell us what they are saying.

Ok, I see, it’s the Chisago County Republican Platform. Matt, we can’t hear it from here, Tell me what they’re saying…………………….

All Hail Elephant Terd, Oh, Ok, sorry folks that’s All Hail Elephant Herd………………Recyclers are Morons……..Global Warming is a myth perpetuated by the pansy assed, left wing, liberal news media……….Death to Recyclers…………………All Hail Elephant Terd, excuse me, I mean Elephant, Herd………….Must…………. Squander………….. Earth’s……………………. Resources……… Depriving future generations of resources will make them stronger………All Hail Elephant Terd……………

So there you have it folks. You heard it here first. Quite the agenda.

The Local Republican Elitists are wearing elegantly designed robes made from the finest white sheets, their heads adorned with white dunce caps and cute little elephant snouts. Identities of the faithful are kept secret.

Yes, yes now we can hear the chant as a procession of Republicans pass by our booth on their way to light their ceremonial torches……………………. All Hail Elephant Herd………………Recyclers are Morons……..Global Warming is a myth perpetuated by the pansy assed, left wing, liberal news media……….Death to Recyclers…………………All Hail Elephant Terd, excuse me, I mean Elephant Herd………….………… Must………. Squander……….. Earth’s………….. Resources……………..., Depriving future generations of resources will make them stronger…………All Hail Elephant Terd……………

The Republicans will now crucify an effigy of Jeremy Kalin before burning the cross.

What…………………………? Matt did you say the real Jeremy Kalin is getting crucified.

Yes, Ladies and Gentleman, we are witnessing the live crucifixion of Jeremy Kalin. Elephant Terd has just driven the first spike. Ooooooooh, that’s gotta hurt. But what a treat for this loyal crowd of Republican Elitists.

Commissioner Gustafson has just driven the second spike while Commissioners Robinson and Schultz, in a show of unity, jointly nail Jeremy’s feet to the cross.

But back to the big news of the day. Janet, what prompted your decision to switch parties?

It was the money, Lars. I sold out for the money. Even before I took the Oath of Office, Robert, The Right Reverend Gustafson upped my salary by seven grand a year.

Look, I know a lot of folks were expecting me to clean up the corruption and cronyism of the County Board, but hell, how can you prosecute a guy that has just given you and extra 28 grand of the taxpayers money over your four year term.

But I tell you this, Lars, when Robert, The Right Reverend Gustafson cut me in for a piece of his softball action, I saw the light. Halleluiah, Praise the Lord. I was born again. I sit next to the Right Reverend at church every Sunday. I help him teach his Sunday School class.

When the collection plate comes around, Bob takes the twenty’s and I get the ten’s.

Then the judges started giving me stock tips. I tell you this Lars, when I leave office, I’m gonna be one rich bitch.

Now, I got just one word for those dumb asses that supported me at the election.

Suuccccckkkkeeeeeeerrrrr.

You Democrats want me back. Just show me the money. Show me the money.

And as the dying embers of the burning cross light the evening sky, we are again blindfolded and return to Lindstrom. Only true Republicans are invited to stay for the weeny and marshmallow roast.

Next week we are reporting live from Robert, The Right Reverend’s Sunday School Class.

County at the Crossroad--Part One

2008-06-21T05:15:00.006-05:00

Glassel-Solid Leadership for Tough Times

County Board Goes Back to the “Well” One Too Many Times!

You can do something about it!

Vote Glassel for Commissioner!

Free Heavy Metal Recycling

2008-06-21T05:14:00.001-05:00

Free Heavy Metal Recycling

Free Pick Up of Junk is available in Shafer, Center City,Lindstrom, Chisago City, Wyoming, Forest Lake, North Branch, Stacy, Hugo, White Bear Lake, Stillwater, Somerset, Hudson, Twin Cities, Centerville, Lino Lakes, Mahtomedi, St. Paul, North Metro, Minneapolis, MN, MinnesotaEast Farmington, Osceola, WI,

Free Heavy Metal Recycling
Free Pickup of Your Heavy Metal

We gladly accept the following running, repairable or junk items at absolutely no cost to you!
If your junk items are mostly metal, we can recycle it at no cost to you!

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Riding Lawnmowers Walk Behind Lawnmowers Snow blowers
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Washers Dryers Dishwashers
Furnaces Water Heaters Microwave Ovens
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Sorry, we cannot accept refrigerators or freezers at this time

Free Scrap Metal Recycling

Restaurant Equipment Electric Motors Automotive Batteries
Farm Equipment Junk Cars Electrical Cords
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Open Monday thru Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6PM
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Located in the SW Corner of the Old Lumberyard on US Highway 61
And CR 14 in Beautiful Downtown Hugo, MN

612-272-9535
After Hours please call 715-294-1675

County Government Must Learn to Live Within Your Means!

2008-05-28T22:04:00.002-05:00

County Government Must Learn to Live Within Your Means!

As Voter Apathy Turns to Taxpayer Rage, Glassel Calls for Moratorium on Levy Increases

Largely to protect Government Officials from the wrath of their own constituents, The State of Minnesota has enacted a terrorist threat law.

Taxpayers are urged not to use words like “lynch,” “mob” and “Courthouse” in the same sentence.

Oddly enough, punching someone in the stomach is fifth degree assault (a misdemeanor) while colorful metaphors levied against public officials could result in felony charges.

Certainly, taxpayers should remain civil and courteous toward those officials that openly misappropriate, steal and waste your tax dollars.

We are in a recession, a fact that seems oblivious to those in power. Levy increases of your property tax continue as though we were still living in the high times.

Young families are losing their homes to foreclosure at a record pace, while those in power, the ruling troika of Commissioners Shultz, Robinson and Gustafson continue a wild tax and spending spree at your expense.

Chisago County is at a crossroad. It is time for independent and free thinking leadership, unrestrained by the elitist power brokers that currently run our community.

We must look to our greatest resource, the citizens of Chisago County for input and solutions to our problems. We must engage in an open and honest debate about the future of our home.

We cannot allow the corruption, cronyism and “Good Ole Boy” politics of the present board to continue.

You can do something about it! Vote for Glassel!

County Attorney Wages War on Poverty; Janet Jails "Poor White Trash" in Record Numbers

2008-05-14T06:17:00.008-05:00

Story by Uncle Lars Bob

The problem, according to Chisago County Attorney Janet Reiter, is simple. Chisago County does not have enough black people.

Nationwide, 1 in every 15 black males are in jail or prison. In a county of Polocks, Swedes and Germans, the County Attorney’s office was in a real pickle.

Reportedly, it was Assistant County Attorney Beth Beaman who arrived at the final solution.

Janet says, “Sure, we try to maintain county prestige by keeping up with nationwide quotas. We jailed a few “Spics,” Indians and Jews but them damned Jews had Lawyers, the Indians are governed by Tribal law and Mexicans are in just as short supply as Negroes in these here parts.

So Beth comes up with this great idea and we started to jail poor white trash to meet our quotas.”

Janet explains further, “Guilt or innocence is not the real issue. The objective is to get breeding age males out of the reproduction system. Of coarse, these white guys are not as prolific as Negro males. We have to jail two white guys for every Negro, but if we interrupt the breeding cycles of the poor, we can eliminate poverty in Chisago County.”

Janet continued “This has worked quite well to keep down black populations in those areas fortunate enough to have Negroes to jail.

The Sheriff’s Department wasted a lot of time and effort profiling blacks as they passed through the County, but them uppity, citified Negroes what can afford cars and gas hired Jewish lawyers, so we were screwed again.

We have this new jail to fill up, so we just lock up poor white trash. It would be a disgrace to allow this county to fall behind established incarceration rates!

Of coarse the new county jail will cost taxpayers over fifty million dollars. Paying these increased taxes will reclassify a lot of middle class whites to poor white trash status, giving us a much broader pool from which to choose our prisoners.”

When asked if jailing drug dealers should be a higher priority than prosecuting poor folks, Janet responded, “You whining, left wing, liberal, pansy asses are all the same. Prosecute the drugs dealers, prosecute the drug dealers. I get so sick and tired of hearing that, it makes me want to puke.

Drug dealers have even better Lawyers than them citified Negroes.

We would actually have to provide proof to convict a drug dealer. What do you think we are, CSI Las Vegas? Look, we can jail a hundred of these “white trash muthas” for the cost of trying just one drug dealer.

It just does not make good economic sense to go after the drug dealers.

Our Judges are just as determined to get this white trash off the streets as we are. Just put yourself in the Judge’s shoes for a minute. You earn about a million bucks a year with your salary from the state and the stock tips you get from the lawyers employed by the drug dealers.

You’re driving your Mercedes to your ten million dollar lake home after a hard day of jailing this white scum and you have to drive past all those rusted out old Pontiacs and Fords, poor people cashing in their food stamps at the same grocery store where you shop.

Hell, you’d jail the bassards yourself, just so you wouldn’t have to wait behind them in the checkout line while they buy their lottery tickets. Like these morons would ever get rich?”

One can only ask this question, “What would we do without Beth and Janet?”

Publishers Note: It has been a long-standing practice to poke fun at our cultural icons, symbols, public figures and celebrities. A parody exists when one imitates a serious piece of work, such as literature, music or artwork, for a humorous or satirical effect. Parody, as a method of criticism, has been a very popular means for authors, entertainers and advertisers to communicate a particular message or point of view to the public.

The story above is not true. It is a parody of a news story. It is not a real news story, which should be obvious from the content. When a story, as the one above is so obviously untrue when read by intelligent people, no disclaimer is required.

The Case for Jury Nullification

2008-05-07T20:26:00.003-05:00

Reprinted without permission from Time Magazine and the Wire
Because it is important-Jonathan P. Glassel

"If asked to serve on a jury deliberating a violation of state or federal drug laws, we will vote to acquit, regardless of the evidence presented. Save for a prosecution in which acts of violence or intended violence are alleged, we will — to borrow Justice Harry Blackmun's manifesto against the death penalty — no longer tinker with the machinery of the drug war. No longer can we collaborate with a government that uses nonviolent drug offenses to fill prisons with its poorest, most damaged and most desperate citizens.

Jury nullification is American dissent, as old and as heralded as the 1735 trial of John Peter Zenger, who was acquitted of seditious libel against the royal governor of New York, and absent a government capable of repairing injustices, it is legitimate protest.

If some few episodes of a television entertainment have caused others to reflect on the war zones we have created in our cities and the human beings stranded there, we ask that those people might also consider their conscience. And when the lawyers or the judge or your fellow jurors seek explanation, think for a moment on Bubbles or Bodie or Wallace. And remember that the lives being held in the balance aren't fictional."

We write a television show. Measured against more thoughtful and meaningful occupations, this is not the best seat from which to argue public policy or social justice. Still, those viewers who followed The Wire — our HBO drama that tried to portray all sides of inner-city collapse, including the drug war, with as much detail and as little judgment as we could muster — tell us they've invested in the fates of our characters. They worry or grieve for Bubbles, Bodie or Wallace, certain that these characters are fictional yet knowing they are rooted in the reality of the other America, the one rarely acknowledged by anything so overt as a TV drama.

These viewers, admittedly a small shard of the TV universe, deluge us with one question: What can we do? If there are two Americas — separate and unequal — and if the drug war has helped produce a psychic chasm between them, how can well-meaning, well-intentioned people begin to bridge those worlds?

And for five seasons, we answered lamely, offering arguments about economic priorities or drug policy, debating theoreticals within our tangled little drama. We were storytellers, not advocates; we ducked the question as best we could.

Yet this war grinds on, flooding our prisons, devouring resources, turning city neighborhoods into free-fire zones.

To what end? State and federal prisons are packed with victims of the drug conflict. A new report by the Pew Center shows that 1 of every 100 adults in the U.S. — and 1 in 15 black men over 18 — is currently incarcerated. That's the world's highest rate of imprisonment.

The drug war has ravaged law enforcement too. In cities where police agencies commit the most resources to arresting their way out of their drug problems, the arrest rates for violent crime — murder, rape, aggravated assault — have declined.

In Baltimore, where we set The Wire, drug arrests have skyrocketed over the past three decades, yet in that same span, arrest rates for murder have gone from 80% and 90% to half that.

Lost in an unwinnable drug war, a new generation of law officers is no longer capable of investigating crime properly, having learned only to make court pay by grabbing cheap, meaningless drug arrests off the nearest corner.

What the drugs themselves have not destroyed, the warfare against them has. And what once began, perhaps, as a battle against dangerous substances long ago transformed itself into a venal war on our underclass. Since declaring war on drugs nearly 40 years ago, we've been demonizing our most desperate citizens, isolating and incarcerating them and otherwise denying them a role in the American collective. All to no purpose. The prison population doubles and doubles again; the drugs remain.

Our leaders? There aren't any politicians — Democrat or Republican — willing to speak truth on this. Instead, politicians compete to prove themselves more draconian than thou, to embrace America's most profound and enduring policy failure.

"A long habit of not thinking a thing wrong, gives it a superficial appearance of being right," wrote Thomas Paine when he called for civil disobedience against monarchy — the flawed national policy of his day.

In a similar spirit, we offer a small idea that is, perhaps, no small idea. It will not solve the drug problem, nor will it heal all civic wounds. It does not yet address questions of how the resources spent warring with our poor over drug use might be better spent on treatment or education or job training, or anything else that might begin to restore those places in America where the only economic engine remaining is the illegal drug economy. It doesn't resolve the myriad complexities that a retreat from war to sanity will require. All it does is open a range of intricate, paradoxical issues. But this is what we can do — and what we will do.

If asked to serve on a jury deliberating a violation of state or federal drug laws, we will vote to acquit, regardless of the evidence presented. Save for a prosecution in which acts of violence or intended violence are alleged, we will — to borrow Justice Harry Blackmun's manifesto against the death penalty — no longer tinker with the machinery of the drug war. No longer can we collaborate with a government that uses nonviolent drug offenses to fill prisons with its poorest, most damaged and most desperate citizens.

Jury nullification is American dissent, as old and as heralded as the 1735 trial of John Peter Zenger, who was acquitted of seditious libel against the royal governor of New York, and absent a government capable of repairing injustices, it is legitimate protest. If some few episodes of a television entertainment have caused others to reflect on the war zones we have created in our cities and the human beings stranded there, we ask that those people might also consider their conscience. And when the lawyers or the judge or your fellow jurors seek explanation, think for a moment on Bubbles or Bodie or Wallace. And remember that the lives being held in the balance aren't fictional.

The authors are all members of the writing staff of HBO's The Wire, which concludes its five-year run on March 9

High Tech Hoosegow or Debtor’s Prison?

2008-05-03T09:30:00.009-05:00

Lynn’s Desperate Gamble to Win Re-Election

Opinion and Political Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Let sleeping dogs lie, as the old saying goes. A Forty Million Dollar Boondoggle was dead, or so we thought. Commissioners Robinson and Gustafson seemed perfectly willing to leave the issue lie during an election year.

Overriding Commissioners Gustafson and Robinson, County Chair Lynn Schultz has revived the jail issue and is determined to ramrod the jail project into fruition by year’s end, with final Board approval coming after the fall elections, possibly in a “lame duck” capacity should she lose her bid for re-election.

In a down economy, with angry taxpayers nearing revolt, pushing a boondoggle of this magnitude would seem to be political suicide.

However, Schultz is preparing for a tough rematch with Lora Walker this fall. As you will recall, Lynn defeated Lora by a mere 132 votes in the 2004 election.

An invigorated and reinvented Walker is likely to build relationships with elected township officials, alienated (pissed off) by Commissioner Schultz. It is rumored that Walker has taken a leave of absence from her regular job for the sole purpose of regaining her seat on the County Board.

Lora Walker made some “bonehead mistakes” while in office that cost her 132 votes and the election. Right, wrong or indifferent the Libraries have been built and I do not look for Lora to repeat the mistake of imposing undue burden on the landowners along the St. Croix River. It should be noted that Walker did act to repeal that mistake.

Walker has maintained her popularity in the District. People forgave her mistakes, which seem minor when confronted with the inane, self absorbed, high handed and vindictive bitchiness of Commissioner Schultz.

Hence, the logic behind Schultz’s Gamble.

Lynn has tasted power and wants more. She does not want to be remembered as a “one termer.”

Re-Election could well cost Schultz $50,000 or more facing an extremely popular opponent like Walker. Lynn needs money, lots of it and the support of County employees, most notably from Sheriff Rivard and the Sheriff’s Department.

Unlike most taxpayers, Government employees are “recession proof,” with a select few getting paid while they attend college at your expense. Chisago County employs 500 to 600 people. Assuming a spouse at home, people within their sphere of influence and County employees can supply the winning votes to re-elect most anyone, even Lynn Schultz.

Public Works Projects like the new jail, are job security for those on the County (your) payroll.

Though the jail will cost you, the taxpayers of Chisago County over Forty Million dollars, it could well assure Schultz’s re-election. If re-elected, you can expect Schultz to push for a new HHS (Health Human Services) facility at a cost of a mere Ten Million dollars of your money. Lavishing that much of your money on our civil servants could keep Lynn in power for years to come.

The darker and more troubling question is this. With fifty million of your tax dollars up for grab, with slim pickings in Government Contracts, would Jail Supporters pick up the cost of Lynn’s campaign to assure her vote for the project?

In local elections, most voters never know or understand the issues confronting them. Most vote on name recognition. Fifty Grand will buy a lot of name recognition. The families of County employees may well supply the margin to keep Lynn spending your money for years to come.

Absolute power corrupts, absolutely. The circle is complete. The Patsy has become Queen, usurping power from a scandal weakened Bob Gustafson while leading Commissioner Robinson around by his nose ring.

As the ancient Emperor Vespasian looted the Temple of Jerusalem to build the famed Coliseum of Rome, Lynn seeks to leave her name on as many cornerstones as possible, thereby assuring her immortality for all eternity in Chisago County by looting the Temple of the Taxpayer.

(First in a series)

Commissioner Robinson Goes on the "Wagon," North County Taverns apply for Economic Assistance

2008-04-16T07:07:00.005-05:00

Story by Uncle Lars Bob

In an unprecedented action, Chisago County’s, North County Association of Taverns pleaded their case for assistance directly to a Joint Session of Minnesota’s State Legislature.

While offering no direct response to the Tavern Owners adversely affected by Robinson’s newfound sobriety, Lawmakers did pass emergency Legislation extending unemployment benefits to those laid off from Leinenkugel’s North County Brewery and Pipeline Company.

A Leinenkugel’s spokesperson, commenting on condition of anonymity, states, “We hold no ill will toward Commissioner (Lynn) Shultz.” It is widely believed that Schultz is the instigator of this calamity which has befallen North County.

The Leinenkugel’s spokesperson continued, stating “Our North County Brewery and Beer Pipeline was a model of efficiency. Our pipeline ran directly to all the major North County Pubs.

It was powered by solar and wind generated electricity. We handled all of Mike’s (Commissioner Robinson's) beer needs with virtually no carbon footprint.

Hell, Mike drank directly from the tap. We never even wasted energy washing a beer mug.”

Later in the day, Presidential Hopeful, John McCain spoke at a meeting of Brewery and Bartenders Local 101 in Rush City.

As usual, McCain pulled no punches while addressing the 800 unemployed workers of the union.

“Your jobs may not come back, finding another drunk of Robinson’s stature will not be easy. It may take four or five to drunks to replace Mike.”

McCain has introduced legislation aimed at retraining many of the union’s members for future employment beyond the beer industry.

Hillary and Obama are scheduled to address the displaced union workers next week.

In a spectacular show of bipartisan support for the residents of North County, Senator Coleman and Representative Oberstar are lobbying President Bush to declare North County a disaster area.

We now turn to business news.

Archer Daniels Midland, the largest ethanol producer in America has purchased Leinenkugel’s inventory of hops and barley related to the shutdown its North County Brewery and Pipeline.

Spot prices for oil plunged to levels not seen since the 70’s. Prices rebounded, however, when OPEC announced drastic production cuts designed to offset the glut of ethanol expected to hit the market as a result of the closing of North County’s Brewery.

Stock Markets generally trended downward today. McDonald’s and Burger King stock regained lost ground, however when Commissioner Robinson denied he was about to go on a diet.

Publishers Note: It has been a long-standing practice to poke fun at our cultural icons, symbols, public figures and celebrities. A parody exists when one imitates a serious piece of work, such as literature, music or artwork, for a humorous or satirical effect.

Parody, as a method of criticism, has been a very popular means for authors, entertainers and advertisers to communicate a particular message or point of view to the public.

The story above is not true. It is a parody of a news story.

It is not a real news story, which should be obvious from the content. When a story, as the one above is so obviously untrue when read by intelligent people, no disclaimer is required.

Glassel Calls for Voter Mandated Term Limits for all Elected County Officials

2008-04-13T20:34:00.003-05:00

Glassel Launches Bid for County Commissioner

Uncle Lars Bob sez, “ My Nephew, the one what writes this newspaper, is the clear choice to replace Gustafson as Chisago County District III Commissioner.”

As a general rule, politicians in local elections rarely discuss issues. A local politician, confronted with issues will rarely take a solid stand on the most mundane of topics, not wanting to tip his hand on the political deal making to come after the elections.

Local elections are really just “beauty contests” with the candidates promising you everything and anything to get elected. Glassel is different. Glassel promises to make the local issues as transparent as possible, allowing voters to make intelligent decisions on the issues affecting the good people of Chisago County.

Following are just of the few of the issues Glassel will be discussing in the upcoming campaign.

Voter Mandated Term Limits for all Elected County Officials

A New Jail for Sheriff Rivard?

Creation of Local Jobs and Sustainable Communities

The Highway 8 Corridor through Lindstrom

SoftballGate

Global Warming

MastersGate

Direct Democracy, Can your Politician be replaced with a computer?

County Landfill Problems

Corruption and Cronyism in County Government

Chisago County Taxes Triple in Ten years
Enough is enough!
Glassel will not vote to raise County Taxes, ever!

Lone Recycler--Episode Fourteen

2008-04-13T07:47:00.001-05:00

In his youth, King Gustaf was the sole human survivor of a shipwreck and is marooned on a desert island with a pig and a bull mastiff.

A year passes and the King's sexual urges begin to get the better of him, and to his horror he finds himself becoming more attracted to the pig. However, his various attempts at a romantic liaison with the pig are thwarted by the mastiff, which begins to growl menacingly whenever he tries to approach the pig.

On numerous occasions the King finds the pig alone and the moment he begins to undress, the mastiff always appears to spoil his fun.

Two days later a ship sails by and the King lights a signal fire, but to his dismay the ship exploded into flames and sank to the bottom of the sea.

One hour later the King spots a young lady desperately trying to reach the shore and notices a fin approaching behind her. He wades into the water, beats off the shark with a piece of driftwood and drags the woman to safety.

"Thank you," she wails, "you've saved my life. If there is anything I can do for you, anything at all to repay you, I will gladly do it"

He looked earnestly at the woman as a sliver of salt water trickled slowly down her cleavage and said,

"Actually, there is one thing that you could do for me."

The woman looked at him intently, lowered her voice and said, "Anything, anything"

"Right," said the King, "can you take this idiot dog for a walk?

Lone Recycler--Episode Thirteen

2008-04-13T07:45:00.000-05:00

And it came to pass, MOAT (Mother of all Things) did causeth the Duke of Rum to be inflicted with a DWCI (Driving Chariot While Intoxicated). In those days, this was a grave offense, even more grave due to the Duke’s position of great power as servant of the King.

And the King did seek to hideth the Duke’s crime from the peasants (taxpayers). And the Duke was summoned before Rudge Roody in a secret hearing. And Rudge Roody forbade the Duke from driving his own chariot for three weeks.

The Duke of Rum and his driver were cruising along a country road one night after leaving the tavern when all of a sudden they hit a pig, killing it instantly. The Duke told his driver to go up to the farm house and explain to the owners what had happened.About 1 hour later the Duke sees his driver staggering back to the car with a bottle of wine in one hand, a cigar in the other and his clothes all ripped and torn with lipstick smooches all over his face."What happened to you", asked the Duke.

Well, the Farmer gave me the wine, his wife gave me the Cigar and his gorgeous 21 year old daughter ripped my clothes off and kissed me all over my body.

"My God, what did you tell them", asks the Duke of Rum.The driver replies, "I'm the Duke’s driver, and I just killed the pig out on the road"

Lone Recycler Episode Twelve--Horny Old Broads

2008-04-12T11:24:00.004-05:00

The Lone Recycler
Who was that Masked Junkman?

The days were dark in South County. The writers strike had left the comics out of work. But just when South County thought it would never laugh again, a hero arose to recycle those old jokes and puns. Yes, with 10,000 comedians out of work, Uncle Lars Bob was trying to be funny.

Written by Uncle Lars Bob

Return with us to those thrilling days of yesteryear, to a galaxy far, far away, to the Mythical Planet of Heaven revolving around a star in the remote, outer reaches of the Galaxy of Almond Joy.

It’s story time, boys and girls, but remember, this is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to our ruling elite or the politically connected is purely coincidental.

In those days, on the mythical planet of Heaven, in the fictional Galaxy of Almond Joy, many women, when her nest becometh empty, after the stress of raising her children had passed, small bony knobs would appear on her head which were known as horns. It was said these women were of the HOB (Horny Old Broads).

A man, when his nest becometh empty after the stress of raising his children had passed, small bony knobs would appear on his head. It was said these men were of the HOJ (Horny Old Jents).

But remember, boy and girls, Horny Old Broads existeth only in Heaven. Checketh not the head of thy Grandmother for lumps.

Now, the HOJ (Horny Old Jents) groweth hair not on the tops of their heads. But hair did groweth with great profusity from their eyebrows, nostrils and ears.

On both days of summer, the HOJ (Horny Old Jents) would tie their hair into a pony tail and braid their eyebrow, nose and ear hair together to form a helmet to protect their bald heads from the harmful UV rays emitted by the sun.

The Hob and the Hoj would dust off their Hogs, motorcycles built by Messrs. Darley and Havidson. The Hob and The Hoj would ride past the Darley Healer, across the Valley of Croix and into the Land of Favre.

Now, many motorcycles were faster and smoother than the Hogs, but the Hob (Horny Old Broads) found the vibration of the Hog to be quite pleasurable, indeed.

In those days, the spouses did celebrate their wedded bliss with the Rites of Marital Poon Tang (Romp). And the spouses did Rompeth in the wood and did Rompeth in the meadow and did Rompeth under the stars in the Land of Favre, as in days of old.

The wife of our hero, empty though her nest be, was not of the HOB. And every year, upon the anniversary of her birth, with great anticipation the Recycler would checketh his spouse’s head for lumps.

Finding no knobs upon her head, his wife did seek to console our hero and sayeth unto him, “Perhaps I will be horny next year.”

Soon after Evil King Gustaf replaced Texas Ranger with a Patsy, the Patsy of Charles, the Patsy became heavy with horn. This old broad was really horny.

These changes did not go unnoticed by the Duke of Rum, and he too, became heavy with horn and spake unto the Patsy, “Thou hath nice shoes, wouldest though like to hump?”

Now, the Patsy and the Duke were married, but not to each other. As such, the lovers could not participate in the Rites of Marital Poon Tang and instead, were said to POP (Partake of Poon Tang).

And the Patsy mounted the Hog, and together with the Duke of Rum, rode past the Darley Healer, across the Valley of Croix and into the Land of Favre. And the Duke poppeth with the Patsy. And they did poppeth in the wood and did poppeth in the meadow and did poppeth under the stars as in days of old.

And the Patsy and the Duke conspired to overthrow the Evil King Gustaf and become King and Queen of South County. And the Duke sayeth unto the Patsy, "Together we will rule South County. Together, we will screweth the peasants (taxpayers) in ways King Gustaf could never imagine. Today South County, tomorrow the world."

But the Patsy and the Duke, did pisseth off the library ladies. And the library ladies spied upon the Patsy and the Duke and took photographs.

And the Patsy and the Duke were sore afraid.

Jury Still Out on Reiter, Second in a Series

2008-04-10T16:22:00.001-05:00

Justice by the Numbers
Opinion and Commentary by Jonathan P. Glassel

Life or Meth Choices of the Young

2008-04-10T16:13:00.007-05:00

"The first hit is always free, after that you pay with your life!"
An Open Letter to the Children, Teenagers and Young Adults of Chisago County

Seeing a Meth Head at a scrap yard is not unusual.

His face was gaunt and drawn, his malnourished body was a nauseating spectacle more reminiscent of a survivor of a Nazi Concentration Camp than a resident of this century.

This particular junkie was more fortunate than most, I supposed. He had a truck. A beat up old Ford used to haul his junk to market, earning enough money to support his $200 to $300 a day Meth addiction.

Today, he had a flat tire. His spare was the baldest of his five tires, but the Meth Head flashed a toothless smile at the Meth Head standing next to him and set about to change his tire, already knowing the windfall from the sale of today’s junk would buy more Meth, rather than repairing his old truck. Tomorrow, no doubt he would buy another used tire for five bucks, which would last another week or two.

Even from across the parking lot, I can see the lesions on his face and hands. Dark, puss filled sores caused by his unceasing attempts to remove the nonexistent Meth Bugs from his body.

His life has been reduced to a singular task. Feeding his undying need for an unnatural high.

Meth is the most addictive substance ever created by man. This man has been addicted from his first hit. The first hit is always free, after that you pay with your life.

Your body produces dopamine as a natural self reward. Dopamine provides that natural high felt after winning the big race, scoring that winning basket or hitting a home run. Sex is probably the most common occurring factor of dopamine release.

Meth creates an artificial dopamine release that cannot be recreated naturally. The high created from meth is short lasting, requiring more meth be ingested. Before long, natural dopamine release can no longer be achieved as meth has “burned out” the body’s natural dopamine production units.

I observe this Meth Head some more. I originally pegged him as 45 years old or so. His actions and movements, however reveal a young man of less than 30 years of age.

When did this young man give up his life for meth? Very possibly in High School, I suppose. And I wonder, could this be the fate of my grandchildren? In a short twenty years could my grandchildren, your children or you be changing a tire on a old, beat up Ford truck at a scrap yard in St. Paul, looking for your next fix.

Recovery from meth is difficult, to say the least. The success rate is only about 10%. Chances are, the junkie I am observing would sober and relapse 8 to 10 times before freeing himself from this crap.

And what is left after meth? The walking dead, a zombie unable to feel emotion, unable to experience a natural high, ever.

We all feel the lows in life from time to time. Without them, the natural highs would feel less high. But can you imagine a life of nothing, no highs or lows? This is the life of a “recovered” meth head.

The joy of sex which results from a loving long term monogamous relationship awaiting our young people is of indescribable pleasure, the incomparable natural high of life. The birth of children, their miraculous first steps are natural highs, never experienced by the meth addict.

Someday, a classmate, a friend or a complete stranger will offer you meth. I hope you will choose life over meth.

The world needs you, thanks for reading, Jon

Can someone help me get this thing on the search engines?

2008-04-03T12:17:00.002-05:00

Thanks, Jon

Ethanol is Nasty Business--So is the Iraq War

2008-03-31T11:39:00.002-05:00

From my idealistic Republican perspective,

I would like to think the war in Iraq is about freedom for the Iraqi people.

Adding 26 million people to a world of free thought and expression would be a remarkable achievement. An achievement not possible without the sacrifice of 4,000 of our nation's son and daughters.

Quite frankly, the reality of the situation is this simple: We sacrifice our sons and daughters to stabilize our supply of cheap, foreign oil.

I think about this every time I fill my tank. I think about a better way to power our country and our way of life.

Ethanol from corn is inefficient at best. But it is a start. If we can grow our own fuel, our money stays in this country, rather than sent off to Saudi Arabia. We are talking billions and billions of dollars for investment and jobs in this country.

Ethanol technology will advance. Other, more efficient crops will be converted to fuel. We can still drive our cars and maybe, just maybe that young person now driving a tank in Iraq will come home to drive a John Deere tractor, harvesting sugar beets in Western Minnesota.

First in A Series

Thanks, Jon

Third Snow on a Robin

2008-03-31T11:34:00.002-05:00

I've never heard that saying before. The cashier at a C-store told me, according to her husband's grandfather, a robin will never see more than three snowfalls after it returns to the frozen north.

And this is the third one. A sure sign that spring is on the way.

Jon

Honest Politician--An Oxymoron?

2008-03-31T07:08:00.004-05:00

I'd Lie to you for your vote, and that's the truth!

An oxymoron (plural oxymorons or, more rarely, oxymora) is a figure of speech that combines two normally contradictory terms. Oxymoron is a loanword from Greek oxy ("sharp") and moros ("dull"). Thus the word oxymoron is itself an oxymoron.

Oxymorons are a proper subset of the expressions called contradictions in terms. What distinguishes oxymorons from other paradoxes and contradictions is that they are used intentionally, for rhetorical effect, and the contradiction is only apparent, as the combination of terms provides a novel expression of some concept, such as "cruel to be kind".

The most common form of oxymoron involves an adjective combination. For example, the following line from Tennyson's Idylls of the King contains two oxymorons:

"And faith unfaithful kept him falsely true"

Surviving The Meltdown----Investment Strategies for a Warmer World

2008-03-29T19:58:00.003-05:00

First in a Series

“The debate has ended over whether global warming is a problem caused by human activity. Consequently, we can and must act now to solve the problem, or else we will bequeath a dangerous and diminished world to our children and grandchildren.” John McCain and Joe Lieberman.

Who is Elephant Herd? And why does he seek to discredit Global Warming?

Chisagogop.blogspot as near as I can ascertain, is operated by the Republican Party of Chisago County, yet Elephant Herd, the dominant poster, seems intent to distance the local GOP from its national leaders. George Bush is slammed for his Ethanol Program while John McCain is chided for his stance on Global Warming.

Elephant Herd is long on criticism and short on answers.

The plain fact of the matter is quite simple. We do not know what the future holds for us, for our children or for our children’s children.

Nature will self correct, that is certain. How man, the greatest and most successful of nature’s creations will fit into this natural correction is apparently, up to us.

Geologically speaking, the permanent ice caps at the poles are a recent phenomenon. A mere two million years ago, the land masses of North and South America were joined at the Isthmus of Panama by volcanic activity. Ocean currents were disrupted, reducing the amount of warm water going to the Poles. As the snowfall became permanent, the snow itself reflected light and heat back into space further cooling the Earth.

Now, add some peculiar wobbles as the earth spins on its axis and slight alterations of its orbit around the sun and a pattern of Ice Ages, coming and going every 26,000 years or so is established. Yet, in all those past Ice ages that have come and gone over the past two million years, the Poles have never been free of ice.

The North Pole may be ice free in the summers as early as 2012 and is expected to be completely free of ice by the year 2050.

We are 13,000 years out of the last Ice Age and 13,000 years before the next one, with many decisions facing the six billion people on this planet.

“Mankind’s Survival will Depend on its Technology”

In the past 40,000 years, Earth has lost species to extinction at a rate that exceeds “The Great Dying” of the Permian Extinction. Once thought to be a relatively short event, most scientists now believe the “Great Dying” of 251.4 million years ago was an excruciatingly painful event lasting some 80,000 years. The devastation was so thorough and so near complete, 10 million years passed before life could once again flourish on our planet.

Earth has suffered five major extinction events in her history. Most scientists believe we are in the middle phase of Earth’s sixth and possibly greatest extinction event.

The Arctic, with its great diversity of life is lost, succumbing to Global Warming and Abrupt Climate Change. Future Historians will likely place the “Tipping Point,” the Global Warming Point of No Return, in the year 2010, some 40 years before the current predictions.

As with the Permian Event, most life on earth will cease if global temperatures rise to the point where frozen methane is released from the tundra and sea floors enveloping the earth in a dense fog of greenhouse gases.

Man is the only species on this planet that can acquire, retain and pass knowledge to future generations by non-genetic means. Mankind is the only species on this planet that can overcome its very genetics.

As such, man is well equipped by Nature to prevent this next extinction event by moving forward, as there is no going back to a life in caves and tee pees. Living off a land devoid of biological diversity will not be possible, as we cannot digest rocks. Mankind’s survival will depend solely upon its technology.

Earth Friendly Lawnmower Repair

2008-03-29T19:39:00.002-05:00

Preseason Special-Free Pickup and Delivery of Your Walk Behind Mower

For residents of Lindstrom and Chisago City, MN during the month of April, 2008 only.

We charge a nonminal fee for riders.

Green Enterprises
Saving the World for Fun and Profit
Earth Friendly Lawnmower Repair

Hi, my name is Jonathan P. Glassel. Just a guess, but I am probably the only candidate running for County Commissioner that can repair your lawnmower.

If that lawnmower won't run this spring, please consider repair before replacement. A new lawnmower requires a barrel or more of oil and the resultant production of greenhouse gasses in its manufacture.

The typical lawnmower repair requires about a trillioneth of a barrel of oil for the small plastic parts that need replacing.

Repair and purchase of used equipment places little demand on the world's already scarce resources and lowers demand on oil reserves while reducing greenhouse gases.

Beginning April 1, 2008 we can repair your walk behind mower while you wait or within a day or two as you wish.

We straighten bent crankshafts, have many used parts available and offer pick up and delivery.
The cost for typical walk behind repair includes tune-up, oil change and blade sharpening for about $40 on Briggs & Stratton "Sprint" Engines, $50 on most Tecumseh engines and $60 on Briggs Quattro engines.

We always quote a price in advance and stick to it. We never charge for an estimate or disassembly for inspection. If your equipment is not worth repair, we will recycle it for you at no charge.

We also repair riders, in many cases with used parts to keep costs reasonable. We have used engines, transmissions and complete mower decks.

We have used mowers and riders for sale. Push mowers for as little as $40 and riders as low as $250. We are located in the SW Corner of the old Interstate Lumber building in Hugo.

Pick up and delivery is available.

Please call 612-272-9535 for more information. Fixing your lawnmower is my “Green Enterprise.”

Thanks, Jon

Glassel Plans to Clean Up South County

2008-03-28T20:52:00.002-05:00

Offers free heavy metal recycling with free pick up in South County!

Free Gas Grill Recycling
Proceeds of this year’s program benefits
The Hugo Community Food Shelf

Free!!!!
Outdoor Power Equipment Recycling
“The Guys Thrift Store” now accepts donations of the following items in any condition at absolutely no charge to you!

Lawnmowers Riding Lawnmower

Snowmobiles Roto Tillers

Weed Whips
Chain Saws ATV’s
Motorcycles Junk Cars
Automotive Batteries Bicycles
Electric Motors Outboard Motors
Scrap Metal Sheet Metal

Jonathan P. Glassel’s Anything Goes of Hugo
The Guys Thrift Store 612-272-9535