Friday, December 31st

Oppose Changes To The Community Reinvestment Act
A group called ACORN recently put out a notice alerting us to proposed Community Reinvestment Act changes they say threaten fair lending progress. The Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) was passed in 1977 to combat redlining. Since then, ACORN says the CRA has been vital in encouraging loans and investments in our communities. A proposal by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation would exempt thousands of banks from the law's stricter requirements. The Office of Thrift Supervision would go even further, and remove these strict requirements entirely, leaving what ACORN says is only a toothless standard. This rule -- opposed by regulators who were appointed by President Clinton -- would set the clock back on efforts to rebuild our neighborhoods. It would weaken our work to provide an alternative to predatory lenders.

You can help defeat this proposal.

More on the Community reinvestment Act

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.31.04 @ 05:47PST

Savannah Movie
If you're interested in what Savannah is like, this little movie may help. I liked Savannah so much I'm working on a Savannah page, but for now, here's the link to a movie.

play movie

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.31.04 @ 05:30PST

Thursday, December 30th

Community in a health club
Since selling our family car, and turning to bicycles, walking, and public transportation for a good chunk of our travel needs, we've freed up a lot of money for other things previously unaffordable.

One is the $80 per month dues at our neighborhood health club.

We've been with it for over a year now, but only recently have I made it a daily habit. I do the "executive workout"--15 minutes in the sauna, relax for 10 minutes in the locker room, then shower, and finally spend 10 minutes in the spa.

Certainly the club is rejuvenation time.

But surprisingly, it has become much more than that.

While sweating in the sauna and sitting in the spa, I'm getting to know a wide range of men (many retired) with whom I often get into conversations about their interests, hobbies, and more.

I have a history buff friend who tells me about the latest books and documentaries he finds. There's a guy who knows all of the ins and outs of professional football. There are men who twenty years ago were Vietnamese refugees, and have become successful businessmen in the USA. There's a guy who recently opened a neighborhood computer sales and repair shop. There's a retired schoolteacher who referees high school football games. Of course, there are few retired military men who share war stories, and then there are those who talk investments. And there are yet others...

Altogether, these locker room buddies have a wealth of information and life experiences.

My workout is not just spas and relaxation, but also lots of learning through conversations with them.

I think I've found community.

Traditionally, coffeeshops, cafes, and pubs have filled this niche, that of the "third places" beyond work, and home. And I suppose health clubs have as well.

It's just that until recently, I hadn't personally realized the community potential through daily morning visits to the nieghborhood gym.

What a revelation!

John Andersen (editor@unconventionalideas.com), on 12.30.04 @ 18:00PST

A Rude Awakening and the Mud of Oblivion
Fayetteville is one of those places I had never thought about going. It’s in fact one of those places I’d never thought about. Returning from Savannah, the sun was about to set. We took in some good light at a stop at a cheesy roadside place called South of the Border in South Carolina. South of the Border has a Mexican theme that seemed to poke fun at Mexico and Mexicans. Never mind the political correctness, many of the shops seemed to be run by Latino’s and it seemed to attract Latino’s as well. The bright colors lit by the setting sun provided some unusual tones for our evening photographs, but just a bit of light left sent us off I-95 once again a few miles later at Fayetteville, North Carolina.

The exit signs directed us to the downtown district, yet when the road came to a “T” it failed to offer an indication of which way to turn. Being in a state not unfamiliar with conservatism, I supposed if it were a place interesting enough to visit it would likely be to the left.

I can’t pretend to know about the political leanings of Fayetteville. If I decided to try and make such an assessment all I would have to go on is a Presbyterian Church being the largest building in town, a Main Street district that seemed to have an extension for African-American businesses and a lively little coffee shop called Rude Awakening where there seemed to be friendly political conversation among locals. It’s hard to make judgments about a place on an initial visit. Had I not overheard two of the people in the coffee shop say they were from New York I would probably have assumed they were all locals. Unlike me, who I also might make a judgment about the town based-on if I were assumed to be a local by an observer, I could have mistaken these folks for dyed-in-the-wool North Carolinians. Had I more hours to spend, their assessment of Fayetteville and the lure that brought them to and kept them in the town might have provided more valuable insight.

A large building appeared to straddle the road that lead into Fayetteville. Closer inspection showed it was a market house built on a square, the road circling around. The Market House was built in 1832 on the site of the old State House, which was destroyed by fire in 1831.

The street not only contained the lively coffee shop, but added to that were an array of stores including book stores, antique shops, clothing stores and restaurants.

Again it made me jealous. Such a small town with scattered housing and little density had such a super neighborhood town business strip--and a great coffee shop. While my own district in a much more dense area has one toe in rebirth and a foot stuck in the mud of oblivion.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.30.04 @ 14:31PST

Ten Reasons Why Cities Mattered in 2004
As we approach the end of the year, the staff of the National League of Cities (NLC) looked at the most important domestic news stories of 2004 and developed a list of "Ten Reasons Why Cities Mattered in 2004." In no particular order NLC found that 2004 brought:

1) Disastrous hurricanes: In the paths of Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne, local law enforcement, emergency services, public works and other municipal officials implemented strict evacuation plans, conducted land and water rescues, coordinated after-event disaster planning and assisted in the clean up resulting in fewer deaths and restoration of business as usual within a relatively short period of time. Congrats for these often heroic efforts to cities such as Pensacola, Port Saint Lucie, Fort Myers, Orlando and Gulf Breeze in Florida and the coastal towns and cities in Alabama.

2) The Presidential Campaign: Cities and towns such as Waco, Texas, Columbus, Ohio, and St. Louis, Missouri, were called upon many times during 2004 to ensure a safe campaign, spending hundreds of thousands of dollars with each visit to support additional police, fire and emergency personnel.

3) The Conventions: The cities of Boston and New York rolled out the red carpet for the Democratic and Republican Conventions this summer. The first Presidential election year since the September 11th attacks, the host cities faced numerous added security risks and were able to provide sufficient resources and strategic planning. Both Conventions went off without a hitch.

4) The War in Iraq (news - web sites): Thousands of municipal employees who are active in the Reserves and National Guard have been posted to Iraq. Overall, one-in-five cities were affected by significant National Guard and Reserve deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan (news - web sites). With longer deployments and more Guard and Reserve units being mobilized, the trend is expected to continue.

5) Shortages of Flu Vaccine: City leaders worked with local health officials across the country to set priorities and advise the public on ways to reduce the threat of transmission. In A City Official's Guide to Public Health, NLC offered guidelines adopted by municipal officials on the best methods to prepare for public health emergencies. Southbury, Conn., First Selectman Mark A.R. Cooper has stopped shaking hands during the flu season to underscore his concerns with "hand hygiene" and cold and flu transmission.

6) Information technology in transition: The city of Philadelphia joined others in offering their citizens ubiquitous high-speed Internet access. (On the down side, the General Assembly adopted a bill preventing other cities in Pennsylvania from offering this same service.) The Center for Digital Government named the most technologically advanced cities in America in four population categories: Virginia Beach, Va; Des Moines, Iowa; Denton, Texas and Ogden, Utah (tied); and Redmond, Wash.

7) Tighter Border Security in the Wake of 9/11: NLC leaders went to Nogales, Arizona to develop an action plan for local governments concerned with border security. Challenges facing these cities include drug trafficking and day laborer issues to thwarting terrorism. NLC is stressing greater collaboration between the US Bureau of Customs and Border Protection and local homeland security authorities.

8) Steep Oil Price Increases: Cities already strapped for cash had to dig deeper to pay for gasoline for their buses and vehicles, heating oil for their buildings and schools, and pass- through shipping and other costs as the price of oil rose to $50 a barrel. In 2004, three of five US cities and towns were less able to meet their financial obligations and expectations for 2005 are equally dismal.

9) No Child (or Teenager) Left Behind: As the President launches his effort to raise standards at middle and high schools, the National League of Cities is already working with five cities--Corpus Christi, Tex, Hartford, Conn., Phoenix, Ariz., San Jose, Calif., San Antonio, Tex.--to expand options and innovations in high school education. NLC's Network of Mayors' Education Policy Advisors (EPAN) represents 60 of the largest cities in 31 states and is assisting mayors in their efforts to be stronger advocates for K-12 school reform and school improvement, as well as to increase their awareness about innovative options in high school for their cities.

10) Cicada Invasion: As Brood X arrived on the trees, buildings and lawns in the Eastern United States, cities and towns from the eastern seaboard to Indiana and Tennessee provided the clean up.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.30.04 @ 10:50PST

Wednesday, December 29th

Parking in Savannah
The time between Christmas and New Years presented an opportunity to take one last urban exploration for the year of 2004. At this point in my life I could say safely that my explorations have brought me to know the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Mid-West, plus California and Oregon reasonably well. More than a decade ago, some of my first explorations sent me into the South. These past few days have sent me down that road again.

The major destination on this trip was Savannah, a conservatively estimated fifteen hour drive. Save perhaps walking in strip mall, driving trips are always a risk. An ice storm in and inexperienced winter drivers Northern North Carolina brought more than usual danger to the holiday driver-packed highway. I should also say that while I drive less than average at home, I do enjoy car trips as they present the best opportunity to stop and visit small Main Street districts. When you can find a parking place that is.

Finding a parking place presented the first challenge in Savannah. It was cold, but a town of squares and pedestrian (meant to convey that it looks good from the sidewalk, not that it appeals to the average person) architecture, the self-guided walking tour was far more appealing than the trolley-bus tours.

What appeared to be a case of every street parking space accompanied by a two-hour meter, this would make the walk quite frustrating each time my traveling companion and I would be forced to return and move the car or submit another quarter. Setting out to find a public parking garage presented an even greater challenge as the few which existed were full.

After a half hour or so seeing the beautiful squares from the car, frustration brought us to a two-hour meter outside a coffee shop. A two-hour meter that didn’t work either. Visiting such a place and actually talking to people made a world of difference.

We were directed to first an area with ten-hour meters, and secondly to a parking lot near tennis courts where one coffee patron was sure the car wouldn’t be bothered. Choosing the meter option, perhaps under the motivation of not seeking such a valuable public service for free, or perhaps more realistically from not wanting to park so many blocks away, we chose the ten-hour meter.

I suppose Savannah, packed with tourist buses and cars circling endlessly, might have a love-hate relationship with its visitors. I have found this to be true in many towns that attract numerous outsiders. Gallery Cafe on Bull Street could have put up a sign conveying some ill-mannered message about change not given for parking meters, but instead kept a ready-stack of quarters to accommodate like tourists with such parking-induced irritations. If this was an early indication of Savannah’s personality, I was sure we’d be well-received here.

The visit to the coffee shop changed the mood of the day, at least for us. An unlucky local who had offered advice returned to find a ticket after just running in for a cup of Java. The small parking police vehicles circled endlessly during our visit. Luckily even if the authorities were accustomed to taking advantage of the tourists, the locals didn’t seem to take part.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.29.04 @ 18:33PST

Thursday, December 23rd

San Diego Trolley System To Be Expanded
San Diego residents will benefit from improved rail service as a result of a $26.5 million grant to the Metropolitan Transit Development Board announced recently by U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta.  The grant will be used to connect the Blue and Orange lines along the San Diego Trolley System, providing East County and South Bay riders with easier access to business, residential and recreational centers.

The Metropolitan Transit Development Board will use the $26.5 million for its Mission Valley East Light Rail Transit extension project, a 5.9-mile long connector that will link the two existing Blue and Orange Trolley Lines for the first time.  The extension will operate as part of the new Green line and will fill in the gap between Qualcomm Station in San Diego and Grossmont Center Station in La Mesa. Along its route, the extension will include four new stations at Grantville, San Diego State University, Alvarado Medical Center and 70th Street. In addition, 11 new low-floor light rail vehicles will be purchased to serve the entire system.

When completed in summer 2005, FTA says the Mission Valley East Light Rail Extension will improve San Diego’s transportation network by creating more options for getting around the region.  It will provide new mobility and easier access to some of the region's most popular destinations and commercial and employment centers. Running parallel to Interstate 8, the line will also help ease congestion on one of the area’s most traveled highways.  It is estimated that by 2015 the project will serve 10,800 daily riders.

The grant brings the total federal funding for this project to $240,617,696.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.23.04 @ 19:23PST

New Study Shows Demand for Compact Housing Near Transit Likely to More Than Double by 2025
A new study shows that demand for compact housing near transit is likely to more than double
by 2025, and that demand in Los Angeles could be second only to New York, even though New York’s transit system is much more extensive.

The study, entitled “Hidden in Plain Sight: Capturing the Demand for Housing Near Transit,” finds that across the U.S. more than 14.6 million households are likely to want to rent and buy housing near transit by 2025, double the number that lives in these neighborhoods today. Meeting this demand would require building 2,100 residential units near each of the 3,971 stations included in the study.

The study was conducted for the Federal Transit Administration by the national non-profit Center for Transit-Oriented Development.

“This is a staggering figure, since only a small portion of all new housing is being built in these locations,” says Shelley Poticha, executive director of the Center for TOD. “Because there are currently about 6 million households living within a half mile of transit stations, there is the potential to more than double the amount of housing near transit. This means transit could become the armature for a significant amount of regional growth and help increase transit ridership.”

The ten metropolitan regions that show the potential to generate the most significant demand include the five regions that have extensive transit systems (New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, San Francisco), the three regions with large and growing systems (Los Angeles, Washington D.C. and Portland), and two metro regions with medium-sized but expanding systems (Dallas and Miami).

Eighty percent of the households currently living in “transit zones” -- a term used in the study to describe the half-mile radius around stations -- live in the five metro regions with extensive systems, which account for nearly 62 percent of total potential demand. Los Angeles, even though it has a large but not extensive system, emerges as second only to New York in terms of potential demand. This is a function of the sheer size of the L.A. metro region as well as its demographic and household characteristics.

All of the regions that are expanding their systems have the potential for high rates of growth in demand. Even some metro areas with small but expanding systems -- including Denver, Salt Lake City and Seattle -- will see particularly high growth in potential demand due to high rates of population growth.

The national demand estimate is based on household demand projections for each region that have been segmented by household type and by age of the head of the household -- two key variables affecting demand for housing near transit. The demand estimate takes into account several factors that could drive demand for TOD housing, including overall population growth, growth in the number of household types likely to show a greater propensity for living near transit (“empty nesters” and other households without children for example), the size of the transit system and number of stations.

The study also discusses key trends boosting demand for TOD:

• Transit is in a building boom, with virtually every metro region either building
a transit system or an extension to a system;
• The U.S. population is getting older and households are getting smaller;
• Urban and suburban investment is on the rise, and both employers
and investors are beginning to recognize the value of locations near transit;
• Consumer demand is changing as residents seek housing that is affordable and convenient.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.23.04 @ 19:15PST

Wednesday, December 22nd

Coastal Areas, Desert States Growing Fastest
The nation's population grew by 1.0 percent (2.9 million people) between July 1, 2003, and July 1, 2004, to 293.7 million, according to estimates released this week by the U.S. Census Bureau. With a growth rate of 4.1 percent, Nevada ranked first among states for the 18th consecutive year.

Four nearby states joined Nevada on the list of the nation's 10 fastest-growing: Arizona (second), Idaho (fourth), Utah (seventh) and New Mexico (10th). The remaining top 10 fastest-growing states are all coastal: Florida (third), Georgia (fifth), Texas (sixth), Delaware (eighth) and North Carolina (ninth).

North Carolina and New Mexico replaced California and Hawaii on the list of the top 10 fastest-growing states this year.

Of the 10 fastest-growing states from 2003 to 2004, five are in the West and five in the South. The South now accounts for 36 percent of the nation's total population, with the West comprising 23 percent, the Midwest 22 percent and the Northeast 19 percent.

California remained the most populous state in the nation with 35.9 million people in 2004. The second and third most populous states were Texas (22.5 million) and New York (19.2 million).

Other highlights:

-- The nation's 10 most populous states accounted for 54 percent of the nation's population on July 1, 2004.

-- The 10 fastest-growing states accounted for 49 percent of the national growth from 2003 to 2004.

-- Of the 10 most populous states in 2004, three (New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey) are in the Northeast, three (Illinois, Ohio, Michigan) in the Midwest, three (Texas, Florida, Georgia) in the South and one (California) in the West.

-- While the South had the largest numerical increase in population among regions from 2003 to 2004 (1.5 million), the West recorded the fastest rate of growth (1.5 percent).

The population estimate for Puerto Rico for July 1, 2004, was 3.9 million, up about 17,000 since July 1, 2003. Puerto Rico's rate of increase was 0.4 percent.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.22.04 @ 10:07PST

Monday, December 20th

Your Comments Appreciated
Alright folks, we know thousands of individuals read the pages of The New Colonist each day. Our blog, Vox Civitas, is one of our most popular features. Believe it or not, sometimes we get tired talking (though we love to do it). That's why we have a your comments feature at the end of these entries. We, and other readers, would love to read your reaction and opinions. Think we're crazy? Want to expand on something or give it a local "on my street" perspective? Please do. Click and type.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.20.04 @ 18:34PST

Housing Group Gives "Loan Shark" of the Year Award
Members of ACORN recently presented Money Mart with a not-so prestigious award, "Loan Shark of the Year." Money Mart was presented with the “Loan Shark of the Year Award” at a Toronto location in recognition of what the group calls its abusive lending practices.

ACORN says there are an estimated 1,200 payday lenders across the country generating more than $1 billion in annual business. Yet the industry is completely unregulated in most of the country. It is also illegal. According to Section 347 of the Criminal Code, annual interest rates must not exceed 60%. But payday lenders charge between 300% - 900% in effective annual interest rates and, not infrequently, over 1000%. In spite of this very clear violation of the law, no one is prosecuting these crimes and no one is moving quickly to regulate this rogue industry.

The McGuinty Government has shown some interest in acting but, to date, has done nothing. ACORN is calling on the Premier to do two things immediately: 1) crack down on illegal payday loans and enforce the law against criminal interest rates; 2) implement a comprehensive regulatory system governing the industry in order to protect Canadians from abusive and predatory lending practices.

ACORN Toronto member Renee Chinn is angry about the debt trap Money Mart has caught her aunt in: “They don’t tell you that all their charges and fees are illegal. They just take your money and then lend you more and more so that, before long, you’re stuck with a huge debt and no way to pay it off. They’re just loan sharks taking advantage of vulnerable people like my aunt. It’s the Government’s responsibility to enforce the law and protect citizens – even if we don’t have lots of money.”

ACORN Canada will continue its work on payday lending at the national and provincial level in the coming days, weeks and months.

While ACORN is brand new in Canada, its sister organization in the U.S. has been fighting for social and economic justice for 35 years and is the largest membership organization representing low and moderate-income people in the U.S. with over 175,000 member families in 75 cities.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.20.04 @ 18:29PST

Report finds families struggling to pay rent
As housing costs continue to increase faster than wages, millions of working families will spend the holidays struggling to pay for their homes, while many others will bring in the New Year without a home at all.

Out of Reach: 2004, a report released this week by the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) finds that the national Housing Wage for 2004 is $15.37, or $31,970 a year, almost three times the federal minimum wage. The housing wage represents the amount a full-time worker must earn to be able to afford the rent for a modest two-bedroom home while paying no more than 30% of income for housing. Working families, the elderly, and people with disabilities struggle to pay for their homes and are left to make impossible choices among necessities.

Out of Reach calculates the Housing Wage for every state, region and county in the U.S. and reports that in no community, city, county, or state is housing affordable to low wage workers. Other findings include:

* Families with extremely low incomes (those at 30% or below the area's median income) continue to face the most severe affordability problems. There is not a single metropolitan area where an extremely low income family can be assured of finding a modest two bedroom rental home that is affordable.
* Those families with the most barriers to finding and keeping a modest rental home are those earning the minimum wage. According to the 2004 numbers, housing is out of reach in more counties across the country than ever before, even for a working family with two fulltime minimum wage workers. Renter households in over 990 counties, home to almost 79% of all renter households in the nation, must have at least 80 hours a week of work at the local minimum wage to afford a two bedroom apartment at the local fair market rent.

"Out of Reach shows both the depth and breadth of the housing shortage in our country. The gap between what people earn and what their housing costs is stark," said Sheila Crowley, President of the National Low Income Housing Coalition. "For the one third of the nation paying too much for their homes, the consequences of ends that do not meet are all too real."

The report will be released at 1 p.m. Eastern Standard Time during a conference call with press on Monday, December 20. Speakers on the call will include Crowley and Danilo Pelletiere of the National Low Income Housing Coalition. Both speakers will be available for questions during and after the call.

According to Out of Reach: 2004, the least affordable states and their Housing Wages are:

1. California $21.24
2. Massachusetts $20.93
3. New Jersey $20.35
4. Maryland $18.25
5. New York $18.18
6. Connecticut $17.90
7. Hawaii $17.60
8. Alaska $17.07
9. Nevada $16.92
10. New Hampshire $16.79

The least affordable Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) and their Housing Wages are San Francisco, California ($29.60) and Stamford-Norwalk, Connecticut ($27.63).

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.20.04 @ 18:17PST

Sunday, December 19th

Blue Buys
I wish I had known about this before yinz had done all of your holiday shopping. This wonderful site which was brought to my attention by my friend Gray in San Francisco provides information on what retailers donate to political parties.

Even though, if my information is correct, Martha Stewart is a Democrat, K-Mart is one of those companies which, according to buyblue.org made big contributions to the Republicans. If you vote Democrat and shop at Wal-Mart (and I imagine large numbers of Wal-Mart shoppers are Democrats or at least blue-collar), you'll want to know that Wal-Mart is also a big Bush, or at least Republican, supporter. And guess what? According to this web site, Dollar General gave 100 percent of its $63,000 to Republicans (a reasonable person could conclude that it's the Republican policies which are creating all of these low-income customers).

The Republican efforts to air the laundry and find stains in underwear might have helped bring 100 percent of $19,000 in contributions into the party from Fruit-of-the-Loom.

It appears alcohol companies might have concluded Republicans will help drive the good folks of America to drink. Coors gave 92 percent of its contributions to Republicans and the manufacturer of Southern Comfort and Jack Daniels gave 64 percent of its contributions to Republicans. Several wine companies are noted for giving entirely to Democrats.

Interested in buying blue? You might choose the Hardrock Café over Outback Steak House. Holiday Inn's political contributions don't exactly make me want to continue using my current credit card. Buying blue? Head to the Hyatt.

If you're a Starbuck's hater, you might be interested to know that company gave entirely to Democrats. Same goes for Barnes and Noble (98 percent).

See for yourself

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.19.04 @ 09:18PST

The bells as a reminder
This Sunday morning the church bells rang at Our Lady Queen of Peace church just as they do each Sunday morning. Later Sundays will come with new meaning to those church bells. They will remind me that Max's Allegheny Tavern across from the church has a delicious Sunday buffet for only $10.95. The German breakfast, complete with fruits, deserts and omelets was well worth the block-and-a-half walk through the snow and dropping temperatures today. The walk was not quite far enough to subtract many of the calories added at breakfast.

If you live in the area and hear those bells, remember it's time to go to Max's (actually the buffet runs 9-2). If you don't live within ears reach, get a timer or a coo coo clock. You won't want to miss it.

Another food note, there's a wonderful little Korean restaurant named Korea Garden in South Oakland. Enjoy Korean versions of Japanese and Chinese dishes. I believe it's located on Semple Street, not too far from Mad Mex if you know where that is. Lunch is around $8, dinners are around $14.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.19.04 @ 08:50PST

Friday, December 17th

Breaking the Cell
I don't know why people so often complain about cell phones--always to the effect that they somehow prevent us from living a public life...yes, many cell phone users seem to enjoy shouting their private concerns into the handset. But at least they're talking to someone...is it that much different from any two people having a conversation in public with both of them present? I myself am profoundly irritated by the headphone wearers, who really are blocking off the entire world of human discourse, preferring the canned whinings of commercial pop....

Last night on the 720 headed down Wilshire I had to make a cell phone call to a business acquaintance of my partner in a prospective bicycle import deal. (Shaft drive city bikes, if it works out!.) The man I was speaking to, whom I've never met, would be going to China and could inspect the wares at the factory for a preliminary evaluation, so I had to describe to him what we were looking for. I asked him, finally, to email me so I'd have his address and could send him specifications.

When I hung up, a lean, well-dressed man across the aisle from me said he couldn't help overhearing, that he was a cyclist, did I ride a lot, etc? We ended up establishing an acquaintanceship and anticipating a bike ride together. As the bus approached his stop and he got up to leave, he said (with a grin), "Well, I've got your email, I'll drop you a line tonight."

And so he did...because of a cell phone call on a city bus. Without that irritating little toy we would probably have ignored each other and each other's history for the whole ride. It was the cell phone that broke us out of our cells.

Richard Risemberg (rrisemberg@newcolonist.com), on 12.17.04 @ 08:46PST
Wednesday, December 15th

A few holiday facts from the Census Bureau
Where Is Christmas?

1: The number of places around the country named “Christmas.” That unincorporated town is Christmas, Fla., which had a population of 1,162 in 2000.


Other places whose names are associated with the holiday season include North Pole, Alaska (population 1,645 in 2003); Santa Claus, Ind. (2,164); Santa Claus, Ga. (238); Noel, Mo. (1,452); and — if you know about reindeer — the village of Rudolph, Wis. (415).

Where are Christmas Gifts Made?

$239,945: Value of U.S. imports between January and July 2004 from Christmas Island, an Australian territory in the Pacific Ocean, south of Hawaii. Perhaps some of these were “Christmas gifts from Christmas Island.”

179: Number of establishments around the country that primarily manufactured dolls and stuffed toys in 2001; they employed 2,271 people; their total shipments: $296 million. California led the nation with 29 such locations, and New York employed the most, 374.

779: The number of locations that primarily produced games, toys and children’s vehicles in 2001; they employed 21,644 workers and shipped $3.1 billion of goods. California led the nation in the number of these establishments with 117 and Ohio in the number of people they employed, 2,972.

$601 million: The value of U.S. imports of stuffed toys (excluding dolls) from China between January and July 2004. China was the leading country of origin for toys coming into this country, as well as for a number of other popular holiday gifts that were imported. These include electric trains ($40 million over the period); puzzles ($27 million); roller skates ($38 million); sports footwear ($148 million); golf equipment ($29 million); and basketballs ($32 million). Canada was the leading supplier of ice skates ($8 million).

Where Holiday Gifts are Purchased?

11,086: The number of electronic shopping and mail-order houses in business in 2001. These businesses, which employed 280,912 workers, are a popular source of holiday gifts. Their sales: $109 bilion, of which 24 percent were attributable to e-commerce. California led the nation in the number of these establishments and their employees, with 1,746 and 30,291, respectively.

If you’re not sure where to do your shopping, choices of retail establishments abound: In 2001, there were 151,668 clothing and clothing accessories stores; 10,374 department stores; 10,783 hobby, toy and game shops; 33,678 gift, novelty and souvenir shops; 22,468 sporting goods stores; 29,780 jewelry stores; and 11,559 book stores.

47,104: The number of malls and shopping centers dotting the U.S. landscape as of 2003, a total that had increased by approximately 10,000 since 1990.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.15.04 @ 19:09PST

Scientists: 2004 The Fourth Hottest Year On Record
The following is a statement by Dan Becker, director, Global Warming, Sierra Club, on the recent report by Geneva-based World Meteorological Organization on global warming:

"Today, the Geneva-based World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reported that 2004 is on track to be the fourth-hottest year since record-keeping began in 1861. The WMO added that global warming trends will lead to increased extreme weather events.

"While the Bush administration continues to deny the seriousness of global warming, temperatures continue to rise and 2004 joins the 10 warmest years on record -- all occuring since 1990 (See Note below). Today's WMO announcement is further evidence reinforcing the scientific conclusion that global warming will lead to increased habitat loss, sea level rise, and shifting weather patterns. Sir David King, the British government's top scientist, called global warming 'more serious even than the threat of terrorism.' In contrast to the actions of our leading trading partners and the warnings of the world's leading scientists, the Bush administration's approach to global warming ranges from ostrich-like to flat earth.

"Meanwhile, states are taking the initiative in attacking global warming. California's recently passed Pavley Law will require automobile makers to reduce global warming emissions from new cars and light trucks beginning in 2009. The Pavley Law is a big step in the right direction because it delivers clean car choices for consumers, and encourages cost-effective, currently available technology to reduce global warming emissions. Seven Northeastern states plan to implement California law when it is finalized, and Canada is considering adopting the measures.

"There is more good news. We have the solutions today to curb global warming emissions. By using cost-effective technology, we can slash greenhouse gas emissions from cars, pickup trucks, and SUVs. Using this technology can also wean ourselves from our dangerous oil dependence. We can use energy efficient technology to cut the energy use of lighting, heating, cooling and industrial processes. Finally, we can replace dirty, coal fired power plants with clean, renewable energy sources like wind, solar power and cleaner burning natural gas.

"Its time for the Bush administration to take its head out of the sand and put currently available, cost-effective solutions to work against the problem of global warming."

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.15.04 @ 16:19PST

Monday, December 13th

Homebuyers Favor Walkable Neighborhoods and Short Commutes
The prospect of lengthening commutes is leading more Americans to seek walkable neighborhoods in close-in suburbs and cities, according to the 2004 American Community Survey sponsored by the National Association of Realtors and Smart Growth America.

A commute time of 45 minutes or less is the top priority in deciding where to live for 79 percent of Americans. Other top priorities include easy access to highways, important to 75 percent, and having sidewalks and places to walk, important to 72 percent. Having a large house on more than one acre of land was important to 57 percent of Americans.

Among people planning to buy a home in the next three years, 87 percent place a high importance on a shorter commute as their top priority. Asked to choose between two communities, six in ten prospective homebuyers chose a neighborhood that offered a shorter commute, sidewalks and amenities like shops, restaurants, libraries, schools and public transportation within walking distance over a sprawling community with larger lots, limited options for walking and a longer commute. Those who are in the market to buy a home are also more likely to say they want to be in or near a city as opposed to living in a farther out suburb or rural area.

Minorities are even more likely than other Americans to choose a walkable neighborhood that has a shorter commute, with 59 percent of women, 57 percent of Hispanics and 78 percent of African-Americans selecting those communities over communities with bigger lots and longer commutes. After hearing detailed descriptions of two communities, Americans favored the attributes of walkable, smart growth communities over sprawling communities with longer commutes 55 percent to 45 percent.

Americans place a high value on limiting their commute times and are more likely to see improved public transportation and changing patterns of housing development as the solutions to longer commutes than increasing road capacities. Half of all Americans chose improving public transportation as the best option to solving long-term traffic problems. The survey found that approximately one third believe that developing communities where people do not have to drive long distances is the best answer while less than two in ten believe the answer is to build new roads.

Americans also want government and business to be investing in existing communities before putting
resources into newer communities farther out from cities and older suburbs. Nearly nine in ten want their states to fund improvements in existing communities over incentives for new development in the countryside.

With costs being equal, a smart growth community was described for purposes of this survey as a mix of apartments, condos, townhouses and single-family detached houses on various sized lots with sidewalks and places to shop, eat, read and go to school within walking distance. It was also described as community where public transportation is nearby and a one-way commute is less than 45 minutes. A sprawling community was described as one in which there are only single-family detached houses on one-acre lots, there are no sidewalks and places to shop, eat, read and go to school are within a few miles by car. Public transportation such as train, bus or light rail is distant or unavailable and a one-way commute is 45 minutes or more.

The survey was conducted by Belden Russonello & Stewart among 1,130 Americans from August 26
through September 6, 2004. The margin of error for the survey is plus or minus 3 percentage points.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.13.04 @ 19:10PST

Sunday, December 12th

Everyone loves to receive a letter, make someone happy

Many of us may have lost the art of sending letters, but time hasn't changed the fact that most everyone is warmed by a friendly, thoughtful letter. If you're one of those who still prefers the fine-art of letter-writing, or want to get back into it, you'll find the perfect card in our store. Those letters come even better with one of our cards. Support our efforts to support city life and bring a little uplift to your friends by sending them one of our cards. SHOP HERE

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.12.04 @ 17:09PST

TOP REASONS TO PLAY IN DOWNTOWN LA THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
‘Tis the Season in Downtown Los Angeles! The Downtown Center Business Improvement District (DCBID) provides ten reasons to celebrate the holidays in Downtown Los Angeles this year. Downtown LA is the only place in the city where both Angelenos and tourists alike can find culture, music, snow, history, discount jewelry and New Year’s Eve celebrations – all in one convenient location. DCBID offers the following recommendations to help bring in the holiday cheer for 2003.

1. The Jewelry District: Like the old saying goes, “a diamond is a girl’s best friend” - diamonds and
all types of jewelry are particularly loved as gifts for the holidays. Imagine 3,000 stores in one
area allowing shoppers to find the perfect piece of jewelry for an affordable price – that’s the
Downtown LA Jewelry District. The District provides the widest selection of quality jewelry at
discounts from 40-70 percent. Located on Hill Street between 5th and 8th streets.

2. Ice Skating and Snow in Pershing Square: Who says you can’t have snow and ice in Los
Angeles? The holiday fun has already started for ice-skating enthusiasts with the “Downtown
on Ice” rink located in Pershing Square. Plus, on December 6th, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., DCBID
and the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks present “Snow Zone,” a free, festive
event at Pershing Square that brings 15 tons of snow, arts and crafts and live performances to
families of all ages. , Located on 5th and Olive streets.

3. Audio Tour at the Walt Disney Concert Hall: To gain the ultimate Walt Disney Concert Hall
experience during the holidays, the venue has introduced a new 45-minute, self-guided audio
tour to provide an in-depth exploration of the Hall. Narrated by Emmy and Tony Award
winning actor John Lithgow, the tour takes visitors through the project’s history from
conception to fruition. Tickets available at the Hall’s box office or at Ticket Master. , Located on
111 S. Grand Ave.

4. MOCA Exhibit on Frank Gehry: Best known for designing the Walt Disney Concert Hall and
the Guggenheim Bilbao, Frank Gehry has created legendary buildings throughout Los
Angeles. Through January 26th, visitors can learn more about this architectural genius at an
exhibit at The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) through his sketches, photographs, study
models and final design models.Located on 250 South Grand Avenue.

5. The Purple Patrol: Residents won’t find ambassadors at their local mall! The DCBID formed
the Purple Patrol – a team of 70 maintenance, safety and customer service guides dressed in
purple uniforms, to ensure effective customer service in the Downtown area during the
holidays and all other times of the year.

6. Treasures from National Archives: Attention all history buffs! The Los Angeles Central
Library is showcasing “American Originals: Treasures from the National Archives,” a free
exhibit showcasing extraordinary documents from the course of American history. The
exhibition features 25 documents, many of which have never traveled outside of Washington
D.C. Although this exhibit is on display through January 4, the Emancipation Proclamation will
only be available for viewing December 5 – 8. Located on 630 W. Fifth Street.

7. LA Phil Store: Art and music lovers can shop ‘till they drop at the LA Phil Store located in the
Walt Disney Concert Hall. The store features a variety of creative holiday gifts, including
recorded music, books, custom designed clothing, souvenirs, jewelry, stationary and watches
designed by famed architect Frank Gehry. Located on 111 S. Grand Ave..

8. REDCAT Theater: Want to add some artistic culture to your eggnog? The Roy and Edna
Disney/CalArts Theater (REDCAT) is a unique forum for new, cutting edge performances,
screenings and exhibitions performed by notable and emerging artists. The REDCAT Theater
is located in the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Tickets can be purchased at the REDCAT box
office or by calling 213.237.2800. Located at 631 W. 2nd Street.

9. The Downtown DASH: You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen, but do you
know Downtown LA’s very own “dasher?” The DASH is Downtown LA’s comprehensive bus
system. Just as Dasher helps Santa get to his destinations, the DASH helps visitors get to
theirs for only a quarter. Additional information on the DASH.

10. Legends Rock – New Year’s Eve: Rock into the new year with live music on outdoor stages,
fireworks and much more on Grand Avenue and First Street near the Music Center. 7p.m. to
1:30 a.m. $25. 21 and over. For additional information contact 800.228.3469 or
visit.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.12.04 @ 14:08PST

Saturday, December 11th

Remodeling Market Continues Banner Year
iding on the heels of historically low interest rates and a solid level of consumer confidence, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodeling Market Index (RMI) posted a strong third quarter. Today’s third quarter results moved one point ahead of the seasonally adjusted second quarter in 2004.

“This has been an amazing year for remodeling,” said NAHB Remodelors Council Chairman Douglas Sutton, Sr., CGR, CAPS, a remodeler in Springfield, Ill. “With home sales remaining record-breaking, the major additions and alterations sector has kept many remodelers busy with continually growing backlogs.”

The RMI is derived from a quarterly national survey of 500 remodelers. The current market conditions index moved one point, from 50.6 last quarter to 51.8. The future expectations index remained unchanged from last quarter at 52.4. Regionally, the Southern part of the country remained virtually the same in current activity, at 54.7, but gained nearly 4 points in future expectations, moving from 53.3 to 57.0. The Western section posted the highest growth in both current and future expectations rising from 54.0 to 56.9 and 58.5 to 62.3 respectively. The Midwest posted a mixed bag as it showed a minor slow down in current activity, dropping from 47.5 to 46.6 and a minor rebound in future expectations, moving from 43.3 to 44.4. The Northeast saw the biggest fall, dropping from 57.1 to 52.8 in current activity and 57.7 to 56.2 in future expectations. This is the first time the RMI is seasonally adjusted.

“With the ongoing favorable interest rates, rising employment and household incomes, and high home price appreciation rates, we expect the remodeling market to remain on a strong growth path,” said NAHB Chief Economist David Seiders. “The RMI is still above 50 which signals that the market remains healthy. All indicators point to another booming year for remodeling in 2004 and the outlook for 2005 is quite good as well.”

The market saw a jump in terms of major additions and alterations moving from 47.4 in the second quarter of 2004 to 49.2 in the third quarter, but declined somewhat for minor additions and alterations during the same period. Following a drop in the second quarter, the RMI’s maintenance and repairs component saw a rebound in the third quarter, moving from 51.8 to 54.6. As in other recent quarters, the strength of remodeling activity was heavily concentrated in the owner-occupied component of the market.

The RMI “special questions” section surveyed participants about where remodeling companies buy materials and who influences purchasing decisions during projects.

Remodelers responding to the survey reported that specialty distributors are the number one source for windows, doors, and patio doors, followed by wholesale distributors and home improvement centers. Carpeting and flooring are generally purchased from specialty retailers followed by subcontractors and wholesale distributors. About 80 percent of the remodelers reported purchasing lumber structural panels and particle board from lumber yards. Lumber yards are also the primary source for siding, followed by wholesale distributors. The most common source for plumbing fixtures is through subcontractors/installers followed by wholesale distributors.

In questions asked about who influences purchase decisions during projects responses were equally split between the remodeling contractor and the homeowner choosing materials. The survey showed that the contractor is more likely to choose hardware materials such as windows, doors, roofing, lumber, siding and lighting. Whereas the homeowner has more influence when it comes to product selection such as appliances, plumbing fixtures, flooring, carpeting and cabinets.. But both the homeowner and remodeler split on who influences paint selections.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.11.04 @ 09:51PST

Thursday, December 9th

Sierra Club calls on Congress, Administration to Enforce Clean Air Act
A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that smog is directly linked to deaths from heart and lung ailments in major U.S. metropolitan areas. With this troubling new evidence, the Bush Administration and Congress must make it a priority to save thousands of lives by enforcing and strengthening the Clean Air Act and by providing Americans with better transportation choices.

The November 17th issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association includes an extensive study titled, "Ozone and Short-term Mortality in 95 US Urban Communities" which finds that even a relatively small increase in ozone (a main ingredient of smog) is directly linked to an increase in deaths from heart and lung ailments. This study in the nation's most prestigious medical journal shows our air is too polluted and our health is at risk. According to the study, ozone smog pollution causes a significant increase in the risk of death for those in the 95 largest communities, where up to 40% of Americans live. Ozone smog comes from factories--including power plants, cars and trucks.

"We've known for a long time that smog is unhealthy, but this is some of the strongest evidence yet that smog actually kills," said Nat Mund, Sierra Club's Washington Representative for Environmental Quality. "Unfortunately the Bush Administration has weakened the Clean Air Act, allowing power plants to produce more smog-forming pollutants. There is a better way. The Bush Administration could save thousands of lives by cleaning up the pollution from old, dirty factories."

The EPA and Congress should use this information to reject efforts from large polluters to weaken Clean Air health protections. This study also shows that the Bush administration and Congress should provide more balanced funding for public transportation programs that reduce smog and traffic in our cities.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.09.04 @ 14:52PST

Wednesday, December 8th

SUVs Up 56 Percent Over Five Years, 24.2 Million on Nation’s Roads
Sport utility vehicle (SUV) registrations increased by 56 percent between 1997 and 2002, from 15.5 million to 24.2 million, according to a U.S. Census Bureau report released on the nation’s registered trucks and vans. California and Texas led the nation in adding registered SUVs. California had the most registered SUVs — 2.8 million — while Texas had 1.8 million in 2002. (See Table S1. [Excel])
chart

The SUV increase continued a nationwide trend reported five years ago, but the rise fell short of the dramatic 81 percent jump in SUV registrations between 1992 and 1997.

“Altogether, SUVs traveled nearly 315 billion miles on the nation’s highways in 2002, up 100 billion miles from 1997,” said Census Bureau Director Louis Kincannon at a local SUV dealership in Dallas. “Collectively, SUVs made the equivalent of more than 650,000 round-trips to the moon in 2002.”

SUV registrations more than doubled in Tennessee over the five-year period, at 151 percent (from 231,700 to 581,200). Other states with large percentage increases in registrations were Georgia (114 percent, from 416,500 to 892,400) and Indiana (103 percent, from 275,800 to 560,900).

The report also indicated nationwide, there was approximately one registered SUV for every eight licensed drivers in 2002. States with the highest concentrations were Colorado and Wyoming, with about one SUV for every five licensed drivers. (See Table S2. [Excel])

In addition, the District of Columbia had only one SUV for every 14 licensed drivers in 2002. However, there was one for every 30 licensed drivers five years earlier.

Pickup truck registrations were up by only 5 percent between 1997 and 2002, but the 38 million pickups were still the majority of light, single-unit trucks.

Texas had the greatest increase in pickup registrations, gaining 747,800 vehicles between 1997 and 2002 to reach more than 3.3 million. California had the greatest number of pickups, at 4.1 million. West Virginia led the nation in the rate of increase of pickup registrations, at 38 percent, as its total jumped by 100,000 to reach 362,600 vehicles. Texas’ increase was 29 percent, and New Jersey was also among the leaders with a 25 percent increase (from 393,400 to 493,300).

Nationwide, there was approximately one pickup truck for every five licensed drivers in 2002, but there was one pickup for nearly every two drivers in Wyoming. Other high concentrations were found in Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota, with between two and three licensed drivers per registered pickup.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.08.04 @ 21:57PST

Schadenfreude Lite
Is it always wrong to take pleasure in someone's afflictions?

Very often, on the buses or trains, I see deaf folk talking with each other, in sign language, of course; and I find delight in the expressiveness and variety of their gestures. I have no idea what they're saying, but people I've spoken to who know sign language tell me that there are in fact accents and dialects in it, and I see that in the conversations I watch and enjoy--some who use small, tight gestures, hands close to the chest, and keep their faces impasive; some who speak with broad sweeps of their hands and big smiles...some who hands as well as faces smirk or chide. This morning a tall black man was "talking" with a smug white teenager--evidently the two were freinds--and the idiosyncratic grace of their conversation, the precision and emotion of it, was every bit a dance.

Morning on the bus on a rainy LA Wednesday...a good start to a long day's work.

Richard Risemberg (rrisemberg@newcolonist.com), on 12.08.04 @ 09:08PST

Tuesday, December 7th

Mayors, Business Leaders Hold Economic Summit in Washington, D.C. One Week Before White House Economic Forum; Investment Strategies, Tax Incentives
The U. S. Conference of Mayors and its Council for the New American City will bring together mayors and business leaders from around the country for an Economic Summit in Washington, D.C., Thursday, Dec. 9, at Hotel Monaco, to discuss investment in metro economies and focus on a national agenda to keep U.S. metro areas globally competitive and economically strong.

"Election season is over and it's time to get back to governing and talk about what's working in America," said U.S. Conference of Mayors Executive Director Tom Cochran. "Mayors know more than anyone how businesses can help cities thrive. We appreciate that President Bush (news - web sites) is hosting an Economic Forum next week and we hope that he will consider some of the recommendations coming out of this meeting," he continued.

A growing number of businesses recognize that U.S. metro economies -- made up of cities and suburbs -- account for most of the economic growth in the country. Metro areas are the engines that drive the nation's economy, generating 85 percent of the gross metropolitan product (GMP), employment, and income.

"As business leaders who invest in communities across the country, we recognize the importance and value of working with our nation's mayors. We share in the responsibility of providing decent and affordable housing to our citizens and providing them with places to work, shop and play. As mortgage bankers we understand that the cities and suburbs, which make up metropolitan areas, really function as one economy and that our continuing investment helps keep metro areas strong and competitive," said Michael F. Petrie, CMB, chairman, Mortgage Bankers Association.

Also during the Summit, the U.S. Conference of Mayors will release new information by Global Insight, Inc., an economic forecasting firm, on the role of U.S. metro areas during the current economic recovery including numbers employment for the nation's 318 metro economies. Information will also be released indicating when various regions of the country will regain their pre-recession employment levels.

Other issues to be discussed by the mayors and business leaders include:

-- Impact of tax reform proposals on the competitiveness of metro economies and their ability to attract private investment

-- Housing investment

-- Tax incentives for public/private partnerships

-- Infrastructure investment

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.07.04 @ 15:05PST

Automakers Lawsuit Threatens the Health of California Communities
The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers recently sued the California Air Resources Board (ARB) over ARB's rule implementing the state's vehicle global warming law.

"It is disappointing -- though not surprising -- that the same automakers buying ads touting their environmental commitments are suing to prevent California from protecting its citizens from the effects of global warming," said Dan Becker, Washington Director of the Sierra Club's Global Warming Program. "If these automakers are so committed to reducing global warming emissions, why are they suing to prevent California from doing just that?" continued Becker.

Recently, General Motors has run ads promoting its diesel- electric "magic bus." Additionally, Ford has recently committed to cutting 45 percent of its global warming emissions from all its cars by 2030. And Fujio Cho, Toyota's President, has said "if automakers don't reduce smog-forming emissions, greenhouse gases, and the need for petroleum, I believe we won't be in business."

Assembly Bill 1493 -- sometimes known as the Pavely Law, after its lead sponsor -- would require automobile makers to reduce global warming emissions from new cars and light trucks beginning in 2009. The Pavely Law is a large step in the right direction because it delivers clean car choices for consumers, and encourages cost-effective, currently available technology to reduce global warming emissions.

"Auto companies should give their lawyers a break and instead put their engineers to work doing what their ads claim -- protecting people from global warming," continued Becker.

The Pavely Law has widespread support from Californians, a majority of the California legislature, and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (news - web sites). Seven other U.S. states and Canada are in various stages of adopting California's global warming law.

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers is a trade association that includes all of the major automobile manufacturers except for Honda Motor Car Company.

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.07.04 @ 15:02PST

Sunday, December 5th

Larger Bridges
Today I was thinking about ways to shake Pittsburgh up, change the dynamic in some significant way. Walking along the edge of Troy Hill, I looked across at the Hill District bluff. These rivers have divided us for ages now. They have set the stage for how far we travel, where we go and how often. There are small bridges crossing the rivers. What if a larger bridge spanning a greater distance was constructed? Say connecting the Hill District with Troy Hill. Heh, even announcing such an idea would do more than raise a few eyebrows...

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.05.04 @ 13:05PST

Friday, December 3rd

Poem By Award-Winning Chicago Writer Featured on a Billboard at Prominent Chicago Intersection
A Chicago business and literary organization team up to feature a portion of a poem by Li- Young Lee on a billboard above one of Chicago's busiest intersections in the River North Gallery District.

The poetry billboard features the poem "Farewell," which was written specifically for this Chicago billboard The 14' x 48' foot billboard will read: "Be light. At the crest/of every moment emerging, breath."

Li-Young Lee is the author of four books. He was born in Jakarta, Indonesia, of Chinese parents. In 1969 his father, after spending a year as a political prisoner, fled Indonesia with his family.

Lee's poetry billboard will be up for at least one month from Dec. 3rd, outside of Lightology's 20,000 sq. ft. showroom at 215 W. Chicago Ave. (at Wells).

WHY: The Poetry Center and Lightology sought to use the billboard to print interesting, thoughtful and artistic text-a non-commercial message Chicagoans could look forward to seeing throughout the holiday season. Last December, the billboard featured lines from a poem by U.S. Poet Laureate Mark Strand.

The Poetry Center and Lightology believe this to be a brilliant message during the holiday season and the darkest part of the year. Images of the poetry billboard are at http://www.poetrycenter.org

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.03.04 @ 17:10PST

Delegates Told 'You Have the Power' During NLC Indianapolis Conference
The National League of Cities (NLC) Congress of Cities meeting in Indianapolis brought former US Senators Alan Simpson (D-Wyo) and Bill Bradley (R-NJ) together to discuss the aftermath of the recent national elections. Bradley and Simpson offered a bi-partisan perspective on what the next four years could bring for cities in light of a Bush win and a more entrenched Republican-controlled Congress. The exchange between the two former colleagues was forthright and humorous.

Simpson encouraged the local officials attending the NLC meeting to meet with their congressional representatives, citing that connecting directly with Members of Congress was the best way to get their voices heard. "You have the power!" Simpson told the delegates. "Elected officials will listen to other elected officials."

Bradley speculated on President Bush (news - web sites)'s second term and the tone and legacy he wants for his presidency. Although it is not yet clear if he may choose to realign his party or how he will build his legacy, Bradley said, "That's a choice the President has to make."

Eric Miller (editor@newcolonist.com), on 12.03.04 @ 17:08PST