I would love to know the approximate value of the prescriptions collected. How much are doctors overprescribing thus increasing our insurance premiums?
Mr. Whitman, we are looking forward to seeing a Hannaford in Turner. I’m going to focus on just the consumer benefits (though there are many other benefits to the town.)
We are not rich, but we want quality and additional products (like fresh fish and a pharmacy.) I mainly shop at Food City due to convenience however, today I stopped at the Winthrop Hannaford for produce (which we grow in the summer months.)
Please compare prices and quality for the items I purchased today: Green Leaf Lettuce $1.49, Garlic .69 per pound, Madison, ME grown tomatoes $3.49 lb, flat parsley .99, large brown eggs $2.09. The produce is FRESH at Hannaford, unlike what I saw at Food City over the weekend (purchase garlic but threw it away when I arrived home.) Even Food City cabbage, on St Patrick’s week was way under par. I have complained in the past with no response.
Food City’s meats have rarely failed us in price or freshness. But, we would never consider purchasing fish or seafood at Food City due to my perception of lack of turnover.
I understand that Food City, being a smaller chain, would need to increase costs to provide us with the luxury of fresh, edible produce. But, that’s what we want, quality!
As a breast cancer survivor and grandmother I am very upset and insulted by Governor LePage’s opinion and comments. My cancer was fueled by estrogen. Did BPA play a role? I don’t know and will never know. What I do know is I was diagnosed with ER positive breast cancer at a young age.
After fighting the cancer with major surgery, chemo, radiation, drugs, additional surgery with no guarantee it will not return all I can do now is pray for the best for young children. We only purchase BPA free children’s eating/drinking products for our grandchild. We do not have the luxury of control this with other products.
BPA is known to be estrogenic. Why would we want our children to continually be introduced to a chemical which might affect their long term health?
Thanks Gil. And... I messed up on my last paragraph should be: "IMO the risks associated with the minimal radiation do NOT outweigh the potential consequences and hope my younger sisters continue to receive insurance coverage for screenings.
D Wilson, please tell me where you are getting your statistics. The National Cancer Institute reports that up to 20% of mammograms produce a false negative mainly due to woman with dense breasts. Women in this category have an increased risk due to lack of detection and now are being identified as having an overall increased risk. It is unfortunate that it is the technology we rely upon but… that’s pretty much all available for initial screening.
False positives are common (but I don't think it's 50%) and remember the mammogram only identifies changes in the breast - a positive mammo is NOT a cancer diagnosis. It’s strictly a tool which is then followed up by ultra sound or MRI... then perhaps a biopsy. I've had false positives in the past and appreciate that an issue was identified so we could follow up with other tests.
Unfortunately, I've recently been diagnosed with breast cancer (currently going through treatment and am only 47) and have met MANY woman diagnosed in their 40's from a screening mammogram and a good portion had no family history.
IMO the risks associated with the minimal radiation involved far outweigh the potential consequences and hope my younger sisters continue to receive insurance coverage for screenings.
One last comment from me regarding Tron's post – realizing I have not given credit were it is due. Thank you Tron.
During my tenure, I worked closely with Inspectors Paul Ouellette and Peter Morrell.
They provide a critical service ensuring the food groups operated using proper safety standards. And, they provided feedback and final approval when we purchased the new food tents. Pete was instrumental in the tent project.
We purchased the tents for the safety of the vendors and our guests. The purchase was funded from part of the small surplus the Festival accumulated for this intention; obviously when sponsorship times were good…
So, I will always hold enormous respect for the LFD staff. They were paid from the allocation of funds from Lewiston (and likewise the city of Auburn for their fire department support)
Nancy Barry
Former GFBF Board Member (retired 2006)
The Balloon Festival started in 1992. The Firefighters Union started collecting with the boot in 2006. Concerns started during the 2006 Festival and were elevated in 2007. Do not understand how this substantiates your comment that the Firefighter's Union Boot is “synonymous with the festival." Especially when compared against an organization like St Martin De Porres. I do not believe were there in 1992 (but shortly after) and has actively has participated for many years. They do the work recognize the value this Event brings to their group and the COMMUNITY.
I’ve said this before - the challenges to fund this event are astronomical. Now, they are facing at least two lost launches and probably a poor evening with non-profit sales. Where do you think the money comes to fund entertainment and pay for the balloonists?
Confident the committee would love to have the help of community minded individuals who are participate for the benefit of the community.
Nancy Barry
Former GFBF Board Member (retired 2006)
BOSCO, it appears you still do not understand,.. The Balloon Festival is for all to enjoy as a community event; not a fundraiser for one particular organization (and, I highly respect MDA).
Perhaps you might consider volunteering on Festival sponsorship committee? It might enlighten you to the challenges in funding this event and hopefully you could productively contribute.
I have not current involvement in the Festival but have served on the board and realize there are ALWAYS funding issues, especially in this economy.
I fail to see where an apology is needed if the SJ can back up all of the facts. And, I found it very interesting reading. Perhaps we have different tastes… the SJ publishes for all of us.
You stated others did the same prior to this council. How does repeating unethical behavior make it OK? If you had one child who was misbehaving would it be acceptable for your other children to do the same?
It is odd Mr. Reed has refrained from posting. Perhaps he was advised it was smart do to so - since he tends to appear incoherent and illogical? Or, perhaps he finally realizes it's time to move on?
I've been reading, not posting much because of a personal situation and am lacking time. I do believe the next administrator should be hired by the next council. If the current council majority had so many issues with Mr. Bennett why on earth would they want potentially the same situation moving forward? Egos need to take a break, logic needs to take over.
Hey Tron, I'm with you. Just being conservative on the points - yes, I thought you misstated a little.... but understood intent, sorry if I came off to the contrary. Mr. Reed came back as normal (un-professional, vindictive, and personal). I don’t have a lot of extra time today and, even less tomorrow. No need for formalities from you, you can call me Nancy :)
Mr. Reed is correct. The term "lame duck" would only apply to those still serving once not reelected. However, I hear your point and agree with the intended message. Come up with a different phrase and I'm with you :)
Interesting, I needed to catch up today on comments. Appears Mr. Reed had a couple of understandable posts yesterday? But today, it is back the confusion and personal issues. Why? I wonder...
When there is value to be attained with me attending a firefighter’s union meeting, let me know. I am more than happy to attend although after 4+ intensive and great years serving on the Balloon Festival Board, I am not sure where the value lies. I retired 3 years ago and am not a spokesperson for the Festival; I am simply educated on the logistics due to experience and state my opinion as a citizen. And, since you criticized others for not doing so I stated my previous role when referring to the Festival. You may consider stating your city role at the end of every comment you make as well.
As a city counselor, please communicate why you would not want to attend a public meeting because I have not attended a firefighter’s union meeting. This confuses me.
In your last post you finally responded to my inquiry for reasons for Mr. Bennett’s dismissal. "nerw direction we'll head in simply means with someone else driving the bus, and for me, that opportunity is incredible. “ I added the ending quote but left the grammar error for quotation reason. Seems odd that a business person might not state a strategic reason vs. a personal reaction. Again, I am confused.
Regarding your constituents - so it works for you? What you feel is 7-3 in your favor. Please explain your logic on the 7-3. I do not understand; must be missing something. Not criticizing, just do not understand your logic or you did not fully communicate the 7-3 out of x (what is x?) Did only 7 positive citizens contact you? I did not read this. And, if only 7 did contact you, why not participate in the meeting?
Another question I asked was your logic on “budget neutral.” This was a while back with no response. You did admit much later that perhaps Phil might need to be compensated (which I fully agree with) that was part of my question. Overall your logic is still questionable with the facts you originally stated (without Phil in the equation.) I still would like an answer.
And, from one “numbers” person to another. Never took a typing class - still make mistakes but at least I catch some. In my opinion, your communications as a city counselor are very unprofessional.
So, Mr. Reed, I have no personal vendetta or agenda. Just see so many holes and illogical statements. All of this leads to questions. Does not add up in my book.
Well said Donnie. And, I assume once you are elected city counselor you will double check your grammar (one small error in last sentence.) Though much easier to understand than Mr. Reed’s comments (or questions in response to questions) - perception is reality. BTW, you rarely make grammar and spelling mistakes on this site :)
I agree. Mr. Reed initiating such negative publicity for this meeting might generate more attendance, which should be very productive. It is unfortunate he chooses not attend. If I were in his position, the need to hear how my constituents feel would override the need to protect myself in a narcissistic bubble.
I am trying to understand your answers. For instance, last week you wrote “I could take 6 months to fill the position which means 6 months you don't pay a new person - making this budget NEUTRAL.”
When I asked how you calculated budget neutral (did not make sense to me), I did not receive a response.
In TCT and today in LSJ comments you insinuated there were direct performance issues with Mr. Bennett. I never saw a concise list which is what I expected. Read one example of not creating a festival workgroup then referring us on to agendas and meeting minutes. That’s it… and as far as Festivals go I feel the Council felt the need to get directly involved in the Balloon Festival.
I agree with Joseph and LSJ, these issues should be listed and shared for the community to review. If, in fact, there were real performance issues.
Now, I read ‘Bottom line, if any emeployee continues to tell me for 18 months "hey if you don't like it buy out the contract, then I will take them up on the offer. Its $75,000 well spent in my opinion.’ (I am leaving the spell error in due to quotation)
This contradicts your today’s earlier justification (performance expectations.) And also contradicts “Budget Neutral” from last week.
Again, just trying to understand. Obviously, I feel it should not be this hard to translate.
If you consider yourself a professional, I would think mending fences with LSJ would be most productive. At the very least, curbing the inappropriate comments I’ve read from you on this site and Face Book. LSJ will still be publishing long past your 15 minutes of fame; it is the publication this community relies upon.
I've been following and responding to your comments regarding Jim Bennett and your comments regarding the Balloon Festival.
First, a suggestion. If you think professionalism is important with your role as a City Councilor, you might consider checking spelling and grammar of your postings.
Second, some observations. Firstly, most users can be identified by clicking their screen name. And, I have asked you direct questions to which you have not responded; still awaiting response.
Yes, Dr. Reeder was at one time the Balloonmeister (which is the correct spelling of the title) of the Festival. He also was one of founders of this critical Twin City event. His instrumental direct involvement was many years ago. When I was on the Board he was not directly involved in the Festival nor did he pilot a balloon.
In my opinion, if you wish to comment on Dr. Reeder's direct involvement it should be to commend him for his hard work associated with creating the Festival and to respect his comments as a founder.
I must be missing something. Please detail how your six month example comes out budget neutral. And, might other duties be "neglected" during this six month period since Phil has been fully employed previous to this appointment? Hold a lot of respect for Phil but something might need to give??
I am writing as a former Balloon Festival director (through the 2006 Festival)
Feel it is important to communicate on a very global level how much work goes into the Festival and the level of intricacies involved.
Annually, the VOLUNTEER Board needs to: Obtain sponsorship from local and national businesses, line up high cost special shape balloons, coordinate and accommodate 40-50 national balloonists with crews, book quality entertainment (with high cost associated), coordinate and provide space/utilities for 30 (+/-) non-profit food groups, coordinate and provide space to 20+ craft and trade vendors, plus so much more…
My guess is well over 300 diverse individuals contribute to festival success. A huge undertaking for the Board to coordinate. And, most Board members need take time off from paying jobs at least a week prior to the Festival.
There are by-laws and policy which the Board follows to ensure equality, safety, and financial accountability. With some minor revisions, I remember policy being the same as what the founders initially wrote back prior to the first Festival in 1993. Their intent was to bring an economically feasible event to the Twin Cities and support local non-profit groups (and all non-profit groups as equal.)
Have there been exceptions to the policy? I remember yes, but very rarely and as an experiment to determine policy might be changed. Never did I see an exception to the by-laws.
I was president of the Festival in 2006, the first year the firefighters started collecting (there have only been THREE festivals with the firefighters involved.)
It was a Board decision to allow the firefighters to collect for their very worthy cause; clearly on a trial basis. We pondered the idea of allowing similar groups to rotate in this spot for opportunity in future years.
My observations from 2006? 1) We were challenged with complaints from guests assuming the Festival was now charging admission. 2) Board members repeatedly requested Firefighters not block the entrances (with no success) 3) We did not receive assistance with ensuring folks with bikes or animals (both safety issues) did not enter the Festival grounds.
Since this was an experiment, the Festival did not ask for any financial assistance from the firefighters in 2006.
It was a taxing challenge to try to manage this group since we had no cooperation and we were already exhausted with all the work needed to get the event going.
In my opinion, the experiment did not work, I was very disappointed. The challenges posed great stress on volunteers and guests and without revisions I would not have voted for the same in 2007. I remain confident it could have worked if all parties followed through on the terms.
MDA is a fantastic organization, I contribute. So is Children’s Miracle Network (a food group). So is St. Martin De Porres. And so are all the other non-profits who work diligently all year to provide an outstanding service to the Festival guests while making money for their organizations.
Recent Comments
Trooper Black
Check http://www.kjonline.com/news/trooper-kills-farmingdale-man_2011-09-25.html for a more detailed story. I believe we are very fortunate Trooper Black is so highly trained and performs his job well!
Great Job!
Congrats to Black Fly Media!
Cost?
I would love to know the approximate value of the prescriptions collected. How much are doctors overprescribing thus increasing our insurance premiums?
typo
Sorry, I saw the typo on Hannford VS HannAford in the subject just before I saved... wish we could delete :)
Hannford vs Food City
Mr. Whitman, we are looking forward to seeing a Hannaford in Turner. I’m going to focus on just the consumer benefits (though there are many other benefits to the town.)
We are not rich, but we want quality and additional products (like fresh fish and a pharmacy.) I mainly shop at Food City due to convenience however, today I stopped at the Winthrop Hannaford for produce (which we grow in the summer months.)
Please compare prices and quality for the items I purchased today: Green Leaf Lettuce $1.49, Garlic .69 per pound, Madison, ME grown tomatoes $3.49 lb, flat parsley .99, large brown eggs $2.09. The produce is FRESH at Hannaford, unlike what I saw at Food City over the weekend (purchase garlic but threw it away when I arrived home.) Even Food City cabbage, on St Patrick’s week was way under par. I have complained in the past with no response.
Food City’s meats have rarely failed us in price or freshness. But, we would never consider purchasing fish or seafood at Food City due to my perception of lack of turnover.
I understand that Food City, being a smaller chain, would need to increase costs to provide us with the luxury of fresh, edible produce. But, that’s what we want, quality!
BPA
As a breast cancer survivor and grandmother I am very upset and insulted by Governor LePage’s opinion and comments. My cancer was fueled by estrogen. Did BPA play a role? I don’t know and will never know. What I do know is I was diagnosed with ER positive breast cancer at a young age.
After fighting the cancer with major surgery, chemo, radiation, drugs, additional surgery with no guarantee it will not return all I can do now is pray for the best for young children. We only purchase BPA free children’s eating/drinking products for our grandchild. We do not have the luxury of control this with other products.
BPA is known to be estrogenic. Why would we want our children to continually be introduced to a chemical which might affect their long term health?
I agree with you Skippy esp
I agree with you Skippy esp feel that if MaineCare was on a sliding scale it would solve a good part of the problem.
Thanks Gil. And... I messed
Thanks Gil. And... I messed up on my last paragraph should be: "IMO the risks associated with the minimal radiation do NOT outweigh the potential consequences and hope my younger sisters continue to receive insurance coverage for screenings.
D Wilson, please tell me
D Wilson, please tell me where you are getting your statistics. The National Cancer Institute reports that up to 20% of mammograms produce a false negative mainly due to woman with dense breasts. Women in this category have an increased risk due to lack of detection and now are being identified as having an overall increased risk. It is unfortunate that it is the technology we rely upon but… that’s pretty much all available for initial screening.
False positives are common (but I don't think it's 50%) and remember the mammogram only identifies changes in the breast - a positive mammo is NOT a cancer diagnosis. It’s strictly a tool which is then followed up by ultra sound or MRI... then perhaps a biopsy. I've had false positives in the past and appreciate that an issue was identified so we could follow up with other tests.
Unfortunately, I've recently been diagnosed with breast cancer (currently going through treatment and am only 47) and have met MANY woman diagnosed in their 40's from a screening mammogram and a good portion had no family history.
IMO the risks associated with the minimal radiation involved far outweigh the potential consequences and hope my younger sisters continue to receive insurance coverage for screenings.
Wonderful! Side note: SJ
Wonderful!
Side note: SJ please improve the quality of volume. Very low for all the videos - outside of the advertisement which is perfect.
One last comment from me
One last comment from me regarding Tron's post – realizing I have not given credit were it is due. Thank you Tron.
During my tenure, I worked closely with Inspectors Paul Ouellette and Peter Morrell.
They provide a critical service ensuring the food groups operated using proper safety standards. And, they provided feedback and final approval when we purchased the new food tents. Pete was instrumental in the tent project.
We purchased the tents for the safety of the vendors and our guests. The purchase was funded from part of the small surplus the Festival accumulated for this intention; obviously when sponsorship times were good…
So, I will always hold enormous respect for the LFD staff. They were paid from the allocation of funds from Lewiston (and likewise the city of Auburn for their fire department support)
Nancy Barry
Former GFBF Board Member (retired 2006)
Rinoblast, The Balloon
Rinoblast,
The Balloon Festival started in 1992. The Firefighters Union started collecting with the boot in 2006. Concerns started during the 2006 Festival and were elevated in 2007. Do not understand how this substantiates your comment that the Firefighter's Union Boot is “synonymous with the festival." Especially when compared against an organization like St Martin De Porres. I do not believe were there in 1992 (but shortly after) and has actively has participated for many years. They do the work recognize the value this Event brings to their group and the COMMUNITY.
I’ve said this before - the challenges to fund this event are astronomical. Now, they are facing at least two lost launches and probably a poor evening with non-profit sales. Where do you think the money comes to fund entertainment and pay for the balloonists?
Confident the committee would love to have the help of community minded individuals who are participate for the benefit of the community.
Nancy Barry
Former GFBF Board Member (retired 2006)
BOSCO, it appears you still
BOSCO, it appears you still do not understand,.. The Balloon Festival is for all to enjoy as a community event; not a fundraiser for one particular organization (and, I highly respect MDA).
Perhaps you might consider volunteering on Festival sponsorship committee? It might enlighten you to the challenges in funding this event and hopefully you could productively contribute.
I have not current involvement in the Festival but have served on the board and realize there are ALWAYS funding issues, especially in this economy.
Condolences to the family.
Condolences to the family. So sad
Ms. Smith, I fail to see
Ms. Smith,
I fail to see where an apology is needed if the SJ can back up all of the facts. And, I found it very interesting reading. Perhaps we have different tastes… the SJ publishes for all of us.
You stated others did the same prior to this council. How does repeating unethical behavior make it OK? If you had one child who was misbehaving would it be acceptable for your other children to do the same?
Nancy
It is odd Mr. Reed has
It is odd Mr. Reed has refrained from posting. Perhaps he was advised it was smart do to so - since he tends to appear incoherent and illogical? Or, perhaps he finally realizes it's time to move on?
I've been reading, not posting much because of a personal situation and am lacking time. I do believe the next administrator should be hired by the next council. If the current council majority had so many issues with Mr. Bennett why on earth would they want potentially the same situation moving forward? Egos need to take a break, logic needs to take over.
Congratulations Edmund!
Congratulations Edmund!
Tell more! Hmm, editing,
Tell more! Hmm, editing, let me rephrase more professionally. What was your perspective?
Tomorrow's SJ should be so
Tomorrow's SJ should be so interesting. So wish I could have gone to Peters' meeting tonight.
Yes! Well said.
Yes! Well said.
Hey Tron, I'm with you.
Hey Tron, I'm with you. Just being conservative on the points - yes, I thought you misstated a little.... but understood intent, sorry if I came off to the contrary. Mr. Reed came back as normal (un-professional, vindictive, and personal). I don’t have a lot of extra time today and, even less tomorrow. No need for formalities from you, you can call me Nancy :)
Tron, Mr. Reed is correct.
Tron,
Mr. Reed is correct. The term "lame duck" would only apply to those still serving once not reelected. However, I hear your point and agree with the intended message. Come up with a different phrase and I'm with you :)
Interesting, I needed to catch up today on comments. Appears Mr. Reed had a couple of understandable posts yesterday? But today, it is back the confusion and personal issues. Why? I wonder...
Mr. Reed, When there is
Mr. Reed,
When there is value to be attained with me attending a firefighter’s union meeting, let me know. I am more than happy to attend although after 4+ intensive and great years serving on the Balloon Festival Board, I am not sure where the value lies. I retired 3 years ago and am not a spokesperson for the Festival; I am simply educated on the logistics due to experience and state my opinion as a citizen. And, since you criticized others for not doing so I stated my previous role when referring to the Festival. You may consider stating your city role at the end of every comment you make as well.
As a city counselor, please communicate why you would not want to attend a public meeting because I have not attended a firefighter’s union meeting. This confuses me.
In your last post you finally responded to my inquiry for reasons for Mr. Bennett’s dismissal. "nerw direction we'll head in simply means with someone else driving the bus, and for me, that opportunity is incredible. “ I added the ending quote but left the grammar error for quotation reason. Seems odd that a business person might not state a strategic reason vs. a personal reaction. Again, I am confused.
Regarding your constituents - so it works for you? What you feel is 7-3 in your favor. Please explain your logic on the 7-3. I do not understand; must be missing something. Not criticizing, just do not understand your logic or you did not fully communicate the 7-3 out of x (what is x?) Did only 7 positive citizens contact you? I did not read this. And, if only 7 did contact you, why not participate in the meeting?
Another question I asked was your logic on “budget neutral.” This was a while back with no response. You did admit much later that perhaps Phil might need to be compensated (which I fully agree with) that was part of my question. Overall your logic is still questionable with the facts you originally stated (without Phil in the equation.) I still would like an answer.
And, from one “numbers” person to another. Never took a typing class - still make mistakes but at least I catch some. In my opinion, your communications as a city counselor are very unprofessional.
So, Mr. Reed, I have no personal vendetta or agenda. Just see so many holes and illogical statements. All of this leads to questions. Does not add up in my book.
There you go! Everyone make
There you go! Everyone make mistakes and you admit it it... even the tiny ones :) Hope you know I was half kidding...
Well said Donnie. And, I
Well said Donnie. And, I assume once you are elected city counselor you will double check your grammar (one small error in last sentence.) Though much easier to understand than Mr. Reed’s comments (or questions in response to questions) - perception is reality. BTW, you rarely make grammar and spelling mistakes on this site :)
I agree. Mr. Reed initiating such negative publicity for this meeting might generate more attendance, which should be very productive. It is unfortunate he chooses not attend. If I were in his position, the need to hear how my constituents feel would override the need to protect myself in a narcissistic bubble.
I am trying to understand
I am trying to understand your answers. For instance, last week you wrote “I could take 6 months to fill the position which means 6 months you don't pay a new person - making this budget NEUTRAL.”
When I asked how you calculated budget neutral (did not make sense to me), I did not receive a response.
In TCT and today in LSJ comments you insinuated there were direct performance issues with Mr. Bennett. I never saw a concise list which is what I expected. Read one example of not creating a festival workgroup then referring us on to agendas and meeting minutes. That’s it… and as far as Festivals go I feel the Council felt the need to get directly involved in the Balloon Festival.
I agree with Joseph and LSJ, these issues should be listed and shared for the community to review. If, in fact, there were real performance issues.
Now, I read ‘Bottom line, if any emeployee continues to tell me for 18 months "hey if you don't like it buy out the contract, then I will take them up on the offer. Its $75,000 well spent in my opinion.’ (I am leaving the spell error in due to quotation)
This contradicts your today’s earlier justification (performance expectations.) And also contradicts “Budget Neutral” from last week.
Again, just trying to understand. Obviously, I feel it should not be this hard to translate.
If you consider yourself a
If you consider yourself a professional, I would think mending fences with LSJ would be most productive. At the very least, curbing the inappropriate comments I’ve read from you on this site and Face Book. LSJ will still be publishing long past your 15 minutes of fame; it is the publication this community relies upon.
Counselor Reed, I've been
Counselor Reed,
I've been following and responding to your comments regarding Jim Bennett and your comments regarding the Balloon Festival.
First, a suggestion. If you think professionalism is important with your role as a City Councilor, you might consider checking spelling and grammar of your postings.
Second, some observations. Firstly, most users can be identified by clicking their screen name. And, I have asked you direct questions to which you have not responded; still awaiting response.
Yes, Dr. Reeder was at one time the Balloonmeister (which is the correct spelling of the title) of the Festival. He also was one of founders of this critical Twin City event. His instrumental direct involvement was many years ago. When I was on the Board he was not directly involved in the Festival nor did he pilot a balloon.
In my opinion, if you wish to comment on Dr. Reeder's direct involvement it should be to commend him for his hard work associated with creating the Festival and to respect his comments as a founder.
Nancy Barry
Former GFBF President
Well said Dr. Reeder.
Well said Dr. Reeder.
There are plenty of us out
There are plenty of us out there using our real names awaiting responses. Please read the threads.
I must be missing something.
I must be missing something. Please detail how your six month example comes out budget neutral. And, might other duties be "neglected" during this six month period since Phil has been fully employed previous to this appointment? Hold a lot of respect for Phil but something might need to give??
Tron, I'm long gone from
Tron,
I'm long gone from the Festival but still a supporter and lots of respect for LFD. Do hope they can work it out.
I am writing as a former
I am writing as a former Balloon Festival director (through the 2006 Festival)
Feel it is important to communicate on a very global level how much work goes into the Festival and the level of intricacies involved.
Annually, the VOLUNTEER Board needs to: Obtain sponsorship from local and national businesses, line up high cost special shape balloons, coordinate and accommodate 40-50 national balloonists with crews, book quality entertainment (with high cost associated), coordinate and provide space/utilities for 30 (+/-) non-profit food groups, coordinate and provide space to 20+ craft and trade vendors, plus so much more…
My guess is well over 300 diverse individuals contribute to festival success. A huge undertaking for the Board to coordinate. And, most Board members need take time off from paying jobs at least a week prior to the Festival.
There are by-laws and policy which the Board follows to ensure equality, safety, and financial accountability. With some minor revisions, I remember policy being the same as what the founders initially wrote back prior to the first Festival in 1993. Their intent was to bring an economically feasible event to the Twin Cities and support local non-profit groups (and all non-profit groups as equal.)
Have there been exceptions to the policy? I remember yes, but very rarely and as an experiment to determine policy might be changed. Never did I see an exception to the by-laws.
I was president of the Festival in 2006, the first year the firefighters started collecting (there have only been THREE festivals with the firefighters involved.)
It was a Board decision to allow the firefighters to collect for their very worthy cause; clearly on a trial basis. We pondered the idea of allowing similar groups to rotate in this spot for opportunity in future years.
My observations from 2006? 1) We were challenged with complaints from guests assuming the Festival was now charging admission. 2) Board members repeatedly requested Firefighters not block the entrances (with no success) 3) We did not receive assistance with ensuring folks with bikes or animals (both safety issues) did not enter the Festival grounds.
Since this was an experiment, the Festival did not ask for any financial assistance from the firefighters in 2006.
It was a taxing challenge to try to manage this group since we had no cooperation and we were already exhausted with all the work needed to get the event going.
In my opinion, the experiment did not work, I was very disappointed. The challenges posed great stress on volunteers and guests and without revisions I would not have voted for the same in 2007. I remain confident it could have worked if all parties followed through on the terms.
MDA is a fantastic organization, I contribute. So is Children’s Miracle Network (a food group). So is St. Martin De Porres. And so are all the other non-profits who work diligently all year to provide an outstanding service to the Festival guests while making money for their organizations.