HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-10-28 CorrespondenceMarian Karr
From: Jeff Davidson
Sent: Tuesday, October 14, 2003 9:37 AM
To: 'cgordon@inav.net'
Cc: *City Councit; *City Manager's Office
Subject: FW: speeding on Bloomington Street
Hello Susan Shinnick. Your email message below was forwarded to me for response. I will request spot speed
enfomement by the Police Department in this area during the morning peak traffic period. Spot speed enforcement
(having a patrol car in the vicinity doing traffic enforcement on a sporadic basis) has been shown to be the only effective
means of getting motorists to slow down. Putting up additional traffic control signs has not been shown to be effective.
Hopefully this action will have a positive impact. Thank you for your message. Jeff Davidson, Traffic Engineering
Planning.
..... Original Message .....
From: Lisa Mollenhauer
Sent: Tuesday, October 14, 2003 9:22 AM
To: Jeff Davidson
Subject: FW: speeding on Bloomington Street
Could you please prepare a response and cc the Council?
Thanks.
..... Original Message .....
From: Susan Shinnick [mailto:cgordon~inav.net]
Sent: Tuesday, October 14, 2003 9:07 AM
To: cotmcil~iowa-city.org
Subject: speeding on Bloomington Street
Something must be done about people speeding on the 900-1400 blocks of Bloomington Street. This is a well known
shortcut, and people are always bombing down it with no regard to pedestrians.
I was walking my son to school today, and distressed by the cars speeding down the 1100 block of Bloomington. I
actually stepped into the road in an attempt to slow down cars, which of course resulted in the drivers looking at me like I
was a crazy woman, and one man (driving a kid to school) to roll down his window and scream at me. I then went to the
police station to ask them to monitor this area for speeders, and now I am appealing to you, council members.
I mostly wonder why other drivers are not afraid that they will kill someone, especially a child, while speeding down our
city streets. Am I the only one who drives the speed limit in town?
Susan Shinnick
1122 Rochester Avenue
10/14/03
Marian Karr
From: James Lewis [lewis@performanceweb.org]
Sent: Friday, October 17, 2003 11:40 AM
To: council@iowa-city.org
Subject: FW: The Cost of Government
Good morning. The office of Management and Budget now requires
that budget allocations be made only after each department and
agency show measurable performance goals and can calculate the
full cost of providing taxpayer services. At the state and local
level, budget cuts have placed a premium on funding and
achieving cost savings.
To help you calculate and manage costs in government as well as
discover cost efficiencies for your program, you are invited to
the 2003 National Summit on The Cost of Government, being held
in Washington, DC on December 2-4, 2003. This summit will share
with you how to achieve full-cost accounting and reduce overhead
and administrative expenses, integrate cost-efficient practices
to all functions of government, and design cost-effective
performance measures.
The latest and best innovations in cost management will be
explored at the 2003 National Summit on The Cost of Government.
This is your chance to engage in meaningful discussion with the
leaders in the field of accounting and management analysis.
May I send you a free copy of our summit agenda?
I hope you can make it to the event. Have a great day.
James
James Lewis
Associate Director
Center for Government Performance
The Performance Institute
Downtown Association of Iowa City
October 10, 2003
Iowa City City Council
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Dear Council Members,
The Downtown Association of Iowa City has submitted our Self-Supported Municipal
Improvement District (SSMID) petition for your review. Organizers of the petition and
those who have signed envision a whole new organizational structure for the Downtown
Association to better represent all the stakeholders in Downtown, both property owners
and tenants. Our new by-laws are attached that our current Board has approved and will
take affect pending Council approval. The organization keeps its resources: computer,
office supplies, and files about Downtown, but it will have a new, more representative
Board to make decisions regarding how the new resources will be allocated.
]f~k~ you,
Executive Director
Downtown Association of Iowa City
PO Box 64 · Iow^ C~TV, IA 52244-0064 · VOICE: 319-35443863 · E~n^~[: dta@iowacity, net · www.downtowniowacity.com
Proposed Revised By-Laws of the Downtown Association of Iowa City
Article I
Name and Objective
Section 1. Name
The name of this organization shall be the "Downtown Association of Iowa City"
hereafter referred to as the Association.
Section 2. Object
The Association is organized for the purposes of:
a. Advancing the economic, professional, cultural and civic welfare of downtown
Iowa City;
b. Encouraging both the growth of existing businesses and the identification of new
finns or individuals seeking to locate in downtown Iowa City;
c. Supporting all those activities believed to be beneficial to the downtown
community.
Section 3. Calendar Year
The Association shall operate on a calendar year basis.
Proposed New By-Laws
Page 1 of 7
Article II
Membership
Section 1. Eligibility
All tenants in the CB-10 District shall be members of the Association. All property
owners in the CB-10 District shall be members of the Association.
Any business outside of the CB-10 may be members of the Association if said business
has paid membership dues, set by the Board of Directors of the Association.
The CB-10 borders are: south of Iowa Avenue from Clinton Street to Gilbert Street, west
of Gilbert Street from Iowa Avenue to Burlington Street, north of Burlington Street from
Gilbert Street to Capitol Street, east of Capitol Street from Burlington Street to
Washington Street, south of Washington Street from Capitol to Clinton Street, and east of
Clinton Street from Washington Street to Iowa Avenue.
Proposed New By-Laws
Page 2 of 7
Board of Directors ~
Section 1. Membership
The Board of Directors shall be composed of fifteen (15) voting members. ~ sh~l~
have seven (7) seats. Tenants shall have five (5) seats. There shall be three
seats. Non-voting ex-officio mc~nbers can be added by a majority vote of the ~l~oard o~
Directors.
Section 2. Transition:
Upon approval creation of the SSMID by the Iowa City City Council and the adoption of
these by-laws the current Board of Directors shall become the Transition Committee. Its
charge shall be the oversight of the convention and election the new Board of Directors.
The new convention and election shall take place promptly after the creation of the
SSMID.
Section 3. Convention
For the first-year only, notice shall be given to each member of the Association, as
defined in Article 2 of these by-laws, ora Nominating Convention. The Convention shall
be open to all members of the Association. At the Convention, property owners shall
nominate individuals representing property owners to be candidates for seats for property
owners. Tenants shall nominate individuals representing tenants to be candidates for seats
for tenants.
Section 4. Election
For the first year only, each property owners shall be sent a ballot for election of those
candidates nominated at the convention. Each tenant shall be sent a ballot for election of
those candidates nominated at the convention. The seven candidates who represent
owners with the greatest number of votes shall be seated on the Board. The five
candidates who represent tenants with the greatest number of votes shall be seated on the
Board. The Board will appoint three at-large members. Each member elected or
appointed for the first year shall serve a one-year term.
Section 5. Subsequent years
The Board of Directors shall amend these by-laws to create a process in which
subsequent Directors shall be selected.
Section 5. Meetings
A regular meeting of the Board of Directors shall be held at least nine times per year.
Additional meetings may be called by the President, or other member of the Executive
Committee. Nine members shall constitute a quorum.
Section 6. Responsibility
The Board of Directors shall be responsible for the policy and direction of the
Association, for the employment of staff, and for the approval of an annual financial
budget for the Association.
Proposed New By-Laws
Page 3 of 7
Section 7. Termination
If any director has three unexcused absences for three consecutive meeting of the Board
of Directors, then he or she can be removed by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Board of
Directors for failure to perform his or her duties.
Section 8. Vacancies
Vacancies on the Board of Directors shall be filled by a majority vote of the Board of
Directors.
Proposed New By-Laws
Page 4 of 7
Article IV
Executive Committee/Officers
Section 1. Executive Committee
The Executive Committee shall consist of the President, President-Elect, Secretary,
Treasurer, and immediate Past-President.
Section 2. President
The President shall preside at all meetings of the Association and its Executive
Committee. The President shall sign all formal documents of the Association.
Section 3. President-Elect
The President-Elect shall perform the duties of the President in the absence of that
officer. In the absence of the President-Elect, a member of the Executive Committee shall
act temporarily.
Section 4. Secretary
The Secretary shall perform such duties as directed by the Board of Directors.
Section 5. Treasurer
The Treasurer shall perform such duties as directed by the Board of Directors.
Section 6. Past President
The immediate Past President shall be a voting member of the Board of Directors, if he or
she is still a member of the Board. If he or she is no longer a member of the Board of
Directors shall be elected to the Executive Committee for one year to fill this seat.
Section 7. Responsibilit~
The Executive Committee shall act for the Board of Directors between regular meetings
of the Board or in absence ora quomm therof. The Executive Committee shall
recommend the hiring and termination of the Executive Director to the Board of
Directors.
Section 8. Vacancies
A majority vote of the Board of Directors shall elect new members to fill vacancies of the
any officers of the Board of Directors.
Section 9. Termination O ~
Any officer may be removed by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Board ofDirec~jor ~
failure to perform his duties. ~O-- ~---
Proposed New By-Laws
Page 5 of 7
Article V
Committees
Section 1. Creation
The Board of Directors shall create committees by a simple majority vote. Each member
of the Association is eligible to be a member of a committee. Committee chairs are
subject to Board approval.
Section 2. Purpose
Committees may be permanent or temporary. Permanent committees are created to
oversee ongoing programs or tasks. Temporary committees are created to investigate,
conduct studies, and make recommendations to the Board of Directors.
Section 3. Limitation of Authority
No committee shall take or make public any formal action, or make public any resolution,
or in any way commit the Association on a question ofpohcy without first receiving the
approval of the Board of Directors. All financial expenditures require the final approval
of the Board. Special committees shall be discharged by the Board when their work has
been completed and their reports accepted, or when, in the opinion of the Board of
Directors, it is expedient to discontinue the committee.
Proposed New By-Laws
Page 6 of 7
Article VI
Amendments
Section 1. Revisions
These By-laws may be amended or altered by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Board of
Directors present at any meeting in which a quorum exists. The members shall receive
notification of said amendments.
Proposed New By-Laws
Page 7 of 7
Dear Mayor Lehman,
My name is Louis Ginsberg and I'm a member'oftroop 211 in the Boy
Scouts of America. I got a little concerned about our last Scouting for food
numbers, people to be donaii~gless food. Scouting for food is an arrmm! scorning
event that we do to collect food for charity.
t was worried about our recent numbers because they were a tot lower than
normak So I was wondering if you could add to a future agenda, putting up some
advertising next year (dateto be detrained) to encourage people to participate.
For example the city could put up some signs or have some radio and TV public
set-dm announcements, to encourage more donations of food.
Please respond as soon as possible.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Louis Ginsberg
Toe Ten Reasons to Keeo MidAmerican./~/.,~. '~ '~~as Iowa City's Electric Provider
10. Lower, stable energy prices for the last twelve years
9. Ability to move student body in and OUt annually..~~ onc~.~&~~
6. Rates frozen at current levels through at ;east 2010. '~-~
5. We built the system over the last 145 years. ~ ~ ,
4. $2,300,000 spent over last five years for ;c~,a C~lty Energy Efficiency.
2. Remember June of 1998? More than 140 MEC employees get
1. More than 70 friendly MEC employee rgy need City.
~~_~ n~MidAmerican
c. & &Uy p. Fun~
1621 Broadway St.
~ Iowa City, IA 52240
Think to the Future
Spay and Neuter
REPORT ANIMAL
www. aspca.org
'-""-' "~ ........ Ii
· ""- --::- - "~-.-'~ h, ,. ~ ,,hhh,llh.,,,lth,
Marian Karr
From: Dale Helling
Sent: Wednesday, October 15, 2003 5:28 PM
To: 'kathryn-pedersen@uiowa.edu'; *City Council
Cc: Marian Karr; Lisa Mollenhauer
Subject: RE: helping out an Iowa City native
Katy,
The City Council members do not directly receive emails sent to them. Your communication will be forwarded to Council
members as part of their weekly information packet next week. To pose your questions directly to them, you may contact
them individually. Their names and telephone numbers can be found on the City of Iowa City website at www. icgov.org
Click on "Council" to access the list. Good luck with your paper.
Dale Helling
Assistant City Manager
cc. Marian Karr, City Clerk
Lisa Mollenhauer, Administrative Assistant
..... Qriginal Message .....
From: kathryn-pedersen@uiowa.edu [mailto:kathryn-pedersen@uiowa.edu]
Sent: Tuesday, October 14, 2003 7:02 PM
To: cou ncil@iowa-city.org
Subject: helping out an Iowa City native
Good evening
I am a freshman at U of I and am writing in regards to an investigation I am
conducting for a paper on Affirmative Action in which interviews are crucial to
the outcome of the paper. All of you hold a prominent position in the Iowa
City/Coralville area which is why your opinions are not only important to our
community, but why I am interested in hearing what you are willing to share. I
have attached a list of questions which you may or may not choose to answer,
however any information regarding this topic is valued highly. Answer all or
one of the questions, any is plenty. If you would prefer to remain
unidentified within the context of my paper, i will take proper action to make
sure your identity is hidden. If you know of anyone that could contribute to
this investigation, please let me know. I realize that each of you are
extremely busy and overloaded with more important issues, but know that the
time you took to simply read this email is greatly appreciated. Thanks again,
have a wonderful Tuesday. I hope to hear from you soon.
Katy Pedersen
Iowa City Native
City High Alum
*** eSafe scanned this email for malicious content ***
*** IMPORTANT: Do not open attachments from unrecognized senders ***
1) Why are you for or against Affirmative action?
2) What does Affirmative Action mean to you?
3) How has Affirmative Action affected you?
4) What kind of influence does affirmative action have on society...on our campus?
5) Who in large part is in charge of admittance here at Iowa and determines which
individuals qualify above other students according to affirmative action? Are all
campuses the same?
6) Are students cheated by affmuative action? In other words would a white student
with exemplary grades be placed above a minority student with average achievements if
the minority % at the university was low?
7) Are student's achievements weighted equally according to academic standards?
8) What advantages do you believe whites have over blacks and vice versa?
9) Are opportunities the same regardless of race, gender, class, etc. on campus?
10) There are various scholarships and grants that are strictly available to minorities; do
you feel that these types of scholarships should exist--why?
11) If there are scholarships available only to minorities because they are minorities,
how would you feel if there were scholarships available to the white race because they
are white?
12) Do students who have received acceptance in accordance with affirmative action or
have received any type of minority scholarship seem to experience different attitudes
form students and faculty on campus?
13) Why do you think that Affirmative Action exists?
14) What place does affirmative action have on society? What place should it have?
15) What do you think will become of Affirmative Action?
Mayor Emie Lehman and October 15, 2003
Members, Iowa City City Council
I regret that I feel it necessary to relate a recent and unfortunate experience with the city cable TV service
MEDIACOM and request your assistance in resolving the complexities involved.
Background: Let me preface the actual experience by indicating that I served as professor and scientist
in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Iowa for 36 years. I retired in 1997 and took
up split residences in Coralville, Iowa and Spearfish, S. D. The reasons are not important, but involve
my closest family ties and the fact that I had been making numerous ~ips between the two cities. For the
past four years or more, I have alternated months between Spearfish and Coralville. I should also
indicate that I have a small office at the University and remain an Emeritus Professor. I am 73.
Problem: Since I frequently change residences between Spearfish and Coralville, I must rely on the
United States Post Office to forward my first class mail. I must say they have been very professional
in this service. I have been able to keep abreast of all bill payments. This is to say with the exception of
one recent case. This involves MEDIACOM. I recently returned to Coralville alter going through a
move from a house to a town house in Spearfish and I also had an auction. Since I get no information
about the Iowa football program in Spearfish, I came back in time to hopefully watch the Michigan-lowa
Football game!! NOT! There was no picture.
Call to MEDIACOM: On Friday before the game, I called MEDIACOM to determine if there was a
problem. The lady indicated that my bills had not been paid and that the post office indicated that I was
gone and my mail could not be forwarded. Therefore, my service was cut. Mind you, this is e~'en though
no attempt was made to determine what was going on; nor the fact that I only use cable service alternate
months, but had been paying for service each month fur four years!!
I do not understand why the post office selectively determined that it was the mail fi-om MEDIACOM
that was not to be forwarded, because all my other bills came through as usual. I did not realize that the
MEDIACOM bills had not been forwarded, probably because I was so busy with the moving and
lxeparations for the auction in Spearfish.
In any case, I still do not have cable TV service and there was no indication fi.om MEDIACOM that they
had any intention of resolving the problem--but, simply cut offmy service. As far as I know, it is
impossible for me to obtain any other cable service, is this correct? If so, I feel the city council should
look curefally at the actions of restricted companies and determine whether or not they are acting in an
equitable manner. Also, I personally feel there should be some mechanism for one who only uses a service
on a half time basis not be required to pay for full time service.
I ask that you and the members of the Iowa City City Council please assist me in any manner possible
with a problem that MEDIACOM appears to have no interest in resolving, but rather prefers simply to
ent offmy service. I resided in Iowa City from 1961 to 1997.
I will very much appreciate your efforts on my behalf and I will greatly appreciate learning of any
progress you are able to make. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Richard G. Kessel
2268 Holiday Rd. # 408 ~-~
Coralville, Iowa 52241
CITY OF IOWA CITY
www.iegov.org
OFFICE OF THE
CITY MANAGER
Stephen J. Atkins
City Manager
steve-atkins~iowa-city.org October 20, 2003
Dale E. Helling
Assistant Cit7 Manager
dale-helling~iowa-city, org Mr. Richard Kessel
2268 Holiday Road #408
Coralville, Iowa 52241
Dear Mr. Kessel:
This letter is in response to your October 15, 2003, correspondence to the
City Council of Iowa City regarding Mediacom.
Iowa City's franchise agreement with Mediacom covers residents within the
corporate limits of Iowa City. It appears you are referring to service in
Coralville. Therefore, if you are interested in passing along your concerns,
the City of Coralville would be the appropriate venue. The address is:
Coralville City Hall
1512 7t" Street
Coralville, IA 52241
Best of luck with your situation.
Sincerely yours, /
ADSals~stE~r Ht ecllii~gM a na~ -- /*'-~ ~ ~/ ,,~
cc. City Council
Drew Shaffer, Cable TV Administrator
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa CiB,, IA 52240
Phone: (319) 356-5010
Fax: (319) 356-5009
Marian Karr
From: Joe Cherner [Joe@smokefree.org]
Sent: Monday, October 20, 2003 9:32 PM
To: Joe Cherner announce list
Subject: [JoeCherner-announce]ZAGAT Survey Finds Smokefree Air Popular With Diners
ZAGAT Survey Finds Smokefree Air Popular With Diners
96% of restaurant goers eating out the same amount or more often
A new Zagat survey of 29,361 diners finds that 96% are eating out the same amount or more often as a result of
New York's smokefree restaurant law. Specifically, 23% said they were eating out more often because of the
law. 73% said they were eating out the same. Only 4% said they were eating out less often.
"The Zagat survey, like those done by Global S~rategy, Zogby International, and Quinnipiac University, shows
that the vast majority of New Yorkers prefer smokefree dining," says Joe Cherner, Founder of BREATHE-- Bar
and Restaurant Employees Advocating Together for a Healthy Environment. "Most diners simply don't want to
breathe dirty air while they are eating."
In other Zagat findings, restaurant openings outnumbered closings by nearly 2-1, with 174 new restaurants
opening and 91 closing. "The number of major openings occurring now and scheduled for early next year is
amazing," said Tim Zagat, who publishes the survey with his wife, Nina.
Tobacco interests still claim that New York's smokefree workplace law is killing business, causing layoffs, and
destroying New York's economy, despite all of the surveys and data showing an increase in employment,
food/beverage sales, and tourism. "Tobacco interests have lied, lie, and will always lie," adds Cherner.
"Fortunately, fewer and fewer people believe them."
To send a "thank you" to the New York State legislature for passing smokefree workplace legislation, go to
www. smokefree.net/NY
To send a "thank you" to the New York City legislature for passing smokefree workplace legislation, go to
www.smokefree.net/NYC
To send a letter in support of smokefree workplace legislation where YOU live, go to
www.smokefree.net/alerts.php
Joseph W. Cherner
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that
ever has." Margaret Mead
To search the JoeChemer-announce archives, go to:
h.~p'..{[s~ mokgfr~.net/JQ~Cheme?announce/messagg~s_
Sent to 43348 JoeCherner-announce Subscribers http://s~o~kefree~net/J~hemer-annot!~ce/_subscribgrs
To unsubscribe council~iowa-city.org, send any email to uns:!Q~:178750-~m0!~efree.net
If you would like to help prevent another generation of tobacco addiction and disease,
click her~ to send a smokeffee EZ-letter to a key decision maker.
10/21/03 Sent to council~iowa-city.m
Page 1 of 2
Marian Karr
From: Joe Cherner [Joe@smokefree.org]
Sent: Tuesday, October 21,2003 9:33 PM
To: Joe Cherner announce list
Subject: [JoeCherner-announce]Massachusetts Poised to Become Nation's 6th Smokefree State
********************************************************
To send a letter in support of smokefree MA, go to www.smokefree.net/MA
Massachusetts Poised to Become Nation's 6th Smokefree State
House Speaker backs smokefree workplace law joining CA, DE, NY, CT, and ME
Parts excerpted from the Boston Globe, 10/21/03
Massachusetts moved one large step closer to becoming the nation's sixth smokefree workplace state, as key
lawmakers endorsed the measure on the eve of a debate scheduled for tomorrow in the House of
Representatives. If successful, Massachusetts wili join CA, DE, NY, CT, and ME.
The proposal would require all workplaces in the state to be smokefree, including bars, nightclubs and taverns.
The latest convert to the cause is House Speaker Thomas M. Finneran whose support was viewed as pivotal. A
similar bill has languished in the House during the past decade due in large measure to the considerable
influence of the tobacco lobby. The Massachusetts Senate has already demonstrated support smokefree
workplace legislation, having endorsed it last May.
Finneran's backing of the bill, disclosed last night by a spokesman, came on the same day that the Joint
Committee on Health Care gave its approval. The office of state Representative Peter J. Koutoujian, House
chairman of the health care committee, confirmed the panel's action and said the smokefree workplace law is
destined for votes in the Senate and House, with the lower chamber scheduled to consider it tomorrow.
"A person working an eight-hour shift at a worksite where smoking is allowed may inhale the equivalent of half
a pack of cigarettes," said Koutoujian. "Over the course ora year (using a 5 day work week), that works out to
115 packs of cigarettes inhaled in the form of secondhand smoke."
"The health care committee has done a tremendous job crafting a bill that will lead to a smoke-free environment
in Massachusetts," said Finneran press secretary Charles Rasmussen. "The speaker totally supports the
committee and its work and is looking for an active debate on the issue on Wednesday."
The quickening momentum emerges five months after Boston implemented a smokefree workplace law and just
weeks after similar laws started in Cambridge and Somerville. At last count, 94 cities and towns in
Massachusetts had moved to eliminate smoking from all workplaces, most notably bars and other nightspots.
Increasingly, legislators who once opposed a statewide ban changed course urging the creation of a level
playing field.
"We're really at a point of critical mass with 94 cities and towns having done this," said Diane Pickles,
executive director of Tobacco Free Massachusetts, a coalition of health organizations advocating for tobacco
control policies. "From our perspective, it only makes sense to provide the same protection for all workers
regardless of the industry they work in as well as the communities they live in."
The state smokefree workplace law is expected to largely mirror Boston's law which went into effect on May 5.
10/22/03
Page 2 of 2
Governor Mitt Romney's office said last night that it would review the law if passed by the Legislature, but did
not commit to supporting it. Earlier in the year, a spokesman for Romney had said the governor preferred to
leave such measures to cities and towns to decide.
Health advocates were encouraged this year as opposition from trade groups melted away; the Massachusetts
Restaurant Association decided in the spring that it would give up its battle against a statewide smokefree
workplace law and instead support it. But they remained anxious about what position Speaker Finneran would
take. Without the endorsement of the powerful House leader, they had acknowledged, their prospects remained
dim.
The news couldn't be sweeter for Joe Cherner, founder of BREATHE-- Bar and Restaurant Employees
Advocating Together for a Healthy Environment. "Most workers won the right to a smokefree workplace years
ago," said Cherner. "Somehow hospitality workers were excluded and that wasn't fair. We are all created
equal, and we are happy that smokefree laws are finally treating us all equally."
To send a letter in support of smokefree MA, go to www.smokeffee~net/MA
To send a letter in support of smokefree workplace legislation where YOU live, go to
~.smokefree.net/glerts.php
Joseph W. Cherner
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that
ever has." Margaret Mead
To search the JoeChemer-announce archives, go to:
http://smokefree.net/JoeCherner-announce/messages
Sent to 43235 JoeCherner-announce Subscribers http://smokefree,net/JoeChemer-announce/subscribers
To unsubscribe council~iowa-city.org, send any email to uns-102-178750-~smokefree.net
If you would like to help prevent another generation of tobacco addiction and disease,
click llere to send a smokefree EZ-letter to a key decision maker.
Sent to council~iowa-city.org
10/22/03
Page 1 of l
Marian Karr
From: Joe Cherner [Joe@smokefree.org]
Sent: Wednesday, October 22.2003 10:24 PM
To: Joe Cherner announce list
Subject: [JoeCherner-announce]Massachusetts House Passes Smokefree Workplace Legislation
Legislation
Massachusetts House Passes Smokefree Workplace Legislation, 125-
25
Boston, 10/22/03... By a landslide vote of 125-25, the Massachusetts House of Representatives today approved
smokefree workplace legislation. If passed by the Senate and signed by the Governor, Massachusetts would
become the nation's sixth smokefree state joining California, Delaware, New York, Connecticut, and Maine.
"Smokefree workplace legislation is great for health and great for business," says Joe Chemer, founder of
BREATHE-- Bar and Restaurant Employees Advocating Together for a Healthy Enviromnent. "Most people
prefer to breathe clean air. The only loser is the tobacco cartel."
To send a letter in support of smokefree MA, go to www.smokefree.net/MA
To send a letter in support of smokefree workplace legislation where YOU live, go to
www.smokefree.net/alerts~php
Joseph W. Cherner
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that
ever has." Margaret Mead
To search the JoeChemer-announce archives, go to:
http://smokefree,net/JoeChemer-announce/messages
Sent to 43202 JoeCherner-announce Subscribers http;//smokefree,net/JoeChemer-announce/subscribers
To unsubscribe council~iowa-city.org, send any email to uns-102-! 78750-~smokefree.net
If you would like to help prevent another generation of tobacco addiction and disease,
click here to send a smokefree EZ-letter to a key decision maker.
Sent to council~iowa-city.org
10/23/03
CYNTHIA E. PARSONS
ATI'ORNEY AT LAW
SUITE 300, BREWERY SQUAILE
123 NORTH LINN STREET
IOWA CITY, IOWA 52245
OFFICE PHONE FAX
(319) 337-9659 EMAIL: cparsons~i¢ialaw.com (319) 354-0559
October 14, 2003
/City Council City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
Historic Preservation Commission
City of Iowa City O
410 E. Washington St. ~>'~ c~
Iowa City, IA 52240
Shelly McAfferty
Planning Dept., City of Iowa City
.-7
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, IA 52240 c~
Mitch Behr
Assistant City Attorney, City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
re: Application to replace windows, 702 E. Washington Street
Dear Council and Commission members, Shelly and Mitch:
I am writing regarding our application to replace windows at 702 E. Washington Street, which
application was denied by the Historic Preservation Commission at its meeting October 9, 2003. As
building owner, I am extremely exasperated at this example of bureaucracy run amok. First of all,
we were never advised as to when our request would be heard by the Commission, and therefor we
were not afforded the opportunity to address the Commission or to participate in its discussion of the
application. This building, although in a Neighborhood Conservation District, has been identified
as a non-contributing structure. There is nothing in the least which is "historic" about our building;
it was originally a single family house which was substantially modified in the mid 1970's to serve
as an apartment building. At that time a six unit addition was also constructed so that it is now a 10
unit apartment building. The existing windows are cheap, single pane windows with even cheaper
combination aluminum storm screen units, which are extremely leaky and are nearly 30 years old.
Our plan is to replace these windows before the really cold weather sets in, to conserve energy and
reduce heat loss, and also to provide a more comfortable place for our tenants. This window
replacement will also greatly improve the fire safety of the structure as none of the current windows
meet escape and rescue standards.
We have in fact already ordered and obtained replacement window units, which are vinyl clad,
Energy-Star rated, and which are quite nice looking. The windows have an integral brick mold trim.
They should improve the appearance as well as the safety and habitability of the building. However,
we were informed on October l0th that our Application was denied, as the current zoning rules for
this District apparently allow for only wood or wood clad replacement windows, although there are
currently proposed changes to the applicable roles which should be implemented by January 2004,
which will allow metal and vinyl clad replacement windows in an RNC District. We were advised
by Planning staff and the Commission that we should simply wait, and then reapply the first part of
2004, at which time the Application should then be approved without difficulty.
This situation is ludicrous; since there is a pending change in the applicable rules which will
allow this type of window, what sense does it make to force us to wait another four months to apply?
If the windows are not replaced now, we will have to wait until spring of 2004 to do so, since
obviously we do not want to replace windows in the dead of winter. This will not only waste energy
in the meantime, but will also waste staff and Commission time in having to address this issue
AGAIN when it could easily be approved and finalized now. The Building Department has already
approved the building permit, subject only to the Historic Preservation Commission "signing off' on
it. What sense does this denial make when our building has been definitively identified as NOT being
any sort of historic structure? This is a huge waste of Corrmaission time, Planning stafftime, and our
time as owners. Our tenants are also being denied the opportunity for a safer dwelling place, for no
logical reason.
There is already precedent for the Commission voting to allow vinyl clad windows under
similar circumstances, even though the rules did not allow for it; this was done last spring for a
structure on Melrose Avenue which is even on the National Historic Register. How can it now be
"arbitrary and capricious" to approve our Application, especially when there are proposed rule
changes which will allow it anyway within several months?
I have asked to be placed on the agenda of the Commission's next meeting on October 23,
2003, to have the opportunity to be heard. Inthe meantime, hopefully someone with some common
sense can look at this situation and strongly recommend to the Commission that our Application be
approved~ "~'/~with°ut/furtl ~elay. G~~A- ne~elter~/'~
E. Parsons
BUILDiNG OWNERS
CEP:mm ~; ~
cc: Tom Sherman, Iowa City Window and Door 63 -'<- ~ -FI
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Council
FROM: Shelley McCafferty, Associate Planner
DATE: October 23, 2003
RE: Memo from Cynthia Parsons
This memo is in response to the October 14 memo from Cynthia Parsons regarding the
replacement of windows at 702 E. Washington Street.
At least two months prior to receiving the application for historic review, I spoke with the
property owner, Gary Klinefelter, regarding this building. Mr. Klinefelter was informed by
telephone and email that the historic preservation guidelines would allow replacement
windows, however, only wood or metal-clad wood windows are permitted. I also informed
him that if this application complies with the guidelines, because this is a non-contributing
property in a conservation district, staff could approve this application.
On approximately September 30, Mr. Klinefelter inquired regarding historic review and he
informed me that he had purchased all vinyl replacement windows. Because these
windows do not comply with the guidelines, I told Mr. Kiinefelter that this project would have
to be reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission and that I would need an
application for historic review by the morning of Friday, October 3 in order for it to be
reviewed at the October 9 Commission meeting. The application was submitted to Housing
and Inspection Services at the end of the day on Friday and I did not receive it via internal
mail until Tuesday morning. Although this was a late application, I did add this item to the
agenda and posted the revised agenda. Due to the late submission, the applicant did not
receive the standard letter informing them of the meeting.
The Historic Preservation Commission, by a vote of 1-7, denied the certificate of
appropriateness on the basis the current guidelines clearly disallow "Installing metal or vinyl
windows when they were not original to the building." In December, the Historic
Preservation Commission will be recommending to Council revised historic preservation
guidelines that will allow the installation of vinyl windows in non-historic properties in
conservation districts. Mr. Klinefelter was informed that once the new guidelines are
adopted, he may re-apply and his application would likely be approved.
The principal concern of the Historic Preservation Commission regarding this issue is the
desire not to establish the precedent that if a contractor or owner purchases noncompliant
products, that the Commission is obligated to approve the installation of these products so
as not to cause the owner to be financially burdened.
Ms. Parsons sites the Commission's approval last spring of the installation of vinyl clad
windows in a landmark on Melrose Avenue. In this case, the contractor applied for a
building permit for the replacement of several custom windows. At the time the permit
application was submitted, due to issues with the computer program, HIS failed to inform
the contractor of the historic preservation regulations. The windows were manufactured
and delivered before the contractor was informed that historic review was required.
Because these windows were not grossly noncompliant, the contractor made a good-faith
effort to comply with City regulations, and because City error would have caused a
October 23, 2003
Page 2
substantial financial burden to the contractor, the Commission voted to approve this
application. The computer glitch has since been resolved to prevent such issues in the
future.
At their October 23 meeting, the Historic Preservation Commission will reconsider Ms.
Parsons' and Mr. Klinefelter's application.
fi JOHN ?APPA~OHN
ENTREPRENEURIAL CENTER
tHE
UNIVERSF[Y Alan M. Hallene, Jr., Ph.D., P.E.
OF IOWA Adjunct Assistant Professor
108 John Pappajohn Business Bldg., Ste. S160
Iowa City, Iowa 52242-1000
309-736-7790 Fax 309-736-7789
Cell 309-236-6409
ahallene2@aol.com
Introducing:
Owners/Operators/Managers
Uptown Bill's Coffee Shop - Matt Powills
Bill's Book Shop - Gretchen Gentsch
& Michael Kacer
Leslie's Luxuries - Leslie O'Leary
& Lauretta Springer
Land of African Botique - Abdala Faye
Mad Hatter Room - Delbert Atkins
Mr. Ed's SuperGraphics - Edmond Gaines
Art Curator - Jeremy Tinder
Mall Hours
Monday-Sunday 8:00AM-8:00PM*
*Hours extended when there is a
late night program in the Mad Hatter Room
Gallery Hours ~'~//~,(,~[.+~v
Friday 6:30PM-8:00PM
Saturday 12Noon-8:00I'M / (J /r~] - / (JcS*/J
Or By Appointment
Musical & Artistic Events at Uptown Bill's Location: 401 S. Gilbert, Iowa City, IA 52240
See w~'w.culturalcorridor.org! Phone and Fax: 319-339-0401, 319-339-0804
Email: bill uptownru'hotmail.com
Space Rental is available at the Small Mall
Call Tom Walz 339-0401
A Call for Donors and Volunteers
Uptown Bill's Small Mall Thc success of thc small businesses owned and operated by
Uptown Bill's consists o£ a number o£ businesses owned and persons with disabilities depends heavily upon community
operated by persons with disabilities. Businesses include Mr. Ed's support. Among thc donations welcomed are books, £urni-
SuperGraphics, Leslie's Luxuries, Bill's Book Mart, Uptown Bill's ture and collectibles. Volunteer duties include staffing thc
Coffee Shop, Mad Hatter Room (community events), Uptown Aris shops, advising business owners and walking with the Mall
(gallery and salon), dog.
The small Mall is named after Bill Sackter, a mentally challenged
man, who became one o£the best known and well-loved Iowa Citians Sharing the Bill Story
during the late 1970s and early 80s. Though involuntarily committed to a Civic, service, church and business groups interested in
state institution £or £orty-£our years--entering at age seven--Bill returned to hearing The Bill Sackter Story or The Small Mall Story should
the community to become "a gift" to those knew him. His remarkable
contact Thomas Walz, Project Director o£ the Extend the Dream
li£e was memorialized in an Emmy award winning movie "Bill" and a Foundation and a nationally noted storyteller. Call (319.339.0401)
sequel, "Bill on His Own." His celebrity is recorded in a biography o£ or email thomas-walz~uiowa.edu.
his li£e "The Unlikely Celebr#y" published by Southern Illinois University
Press. Bill operated a coffee shop on the University of Iowa campus groin
The Mad Hatter Room
1974 to 1983 until he died at age 70. Wild Bill's Coffeeshop is still a part
o£ the University of Iowa's School of Social Work and is operated by The Mad Hatter Room offers a venue for musical events
persons with disabilities. A documentary, Bill Sackter: ~4 Special Spirit, by and small meetings. To book an event, contact J. P. Claussen at
Iowa City filmmaker Lane Wyriak is in the works and will premiere in (319) 339-0401 or jp~mudriver.org.
Spring 2004
The Uptown Arts Salon and Gallery
Its Mission The Uptown Aris Salon and Gallery offers on going art
The mission of the small Mall is to provide an alcohol and smoke exhibits and cultural arts programming.
free environment that is rich in diversity and provides a crossroads where
able persons and those with disabilities may come to know and serve Key Volunteer Staff
one another. The Mall seeks to continue "the spirit of Bill Sackter" by
providing generous and simple caring. The focus of the Mall is on the Dr. Alan Hallene, Jr. - Chairperson, Extend the Dream Foundation
enrichment of people and their relationships. Uptown Bill's is sponsored Dr. Thomas Walz - Project Manager, Uptown Bill's Small Mall
by a private, non-profit organization, Extend the Dream Foundation. The Karen Dusek - Bookkeeper & Accountant
Foundation operates with total volunteer commitment and depends upon Wole Ife - Communications Coordinator
community support (volunteers and donations) for its success. Melissa Derr - Volunteer Coordinator
J. P. Claussen - Community Events Coordinator
Jake Livermore - Assistant Music Coordinator
Jeremy Tinder - Uptown Arts Curator
Carolyn Lukrofka- Donations Coordiantor
Reading Materials for Students
Regarding Small Business Projects
& Disabilities
Table of Contents:
Story of Bill Saekter ~z Vv-fld BRI's Coffee Shop
Infor~on regarding disabiiil~e~.
Mental Retardurlon
Multiple Sclerosis
Cerebral Palsy
Fragile X Syndrome
movie, and a coffee shop:... Sackter Days celebrates all tthtt~ A ma,; a movie, and a coffee shop:... Sackter Days celebrates all tl~ttp
A man, a movie, anda "Bill blossomed like a flower," recalled Tom
coffee shop: Bill fyi[ Walz, professor o f social work and the driving
Sackter Days force behind Wild Bill's. "He attracted
everyone to him as if he was some sort of
celebrates all three beautiful rose. Students, faculty, community
people would just sort of seek him out. He
was such a special person, and that didn't have
anything to do with his retardatiom"
The story of Wild Bill's began in 1973, when
Walz came to Iowa as director of the School
· ~ ~::~ of Social Work. Walz was keen to hire one of
'~: his former students, Barry Morrow, to bring
some creative new blood to the school through
expanding the use of media in instruction. But
Morrow had just assumed guardianship of an
elderly, mentally retarded man who had been
institutionalized since the age of seven.
Morrow wanted the job but told Walz he could
only take it if there was a job for Bill too.
"He was functionally pretty slow but was a
very race man, Walz sat . "We had Bill
making coffee."
Tom Walz, professor of social
work and author of The
Unlikely Celebrity: Bill
Bill Sackter, with his harmonica, in a 1983 photo. Sac~ter's Tdumph Over
Disability, in Wild Bi]l's Coffee
photo by D.R. Miller Shop,
photo by Rex Bavousett
On a campus where the vending machines sell
Coca-Cola exclusively, Wild Bill's Coffee In the course of time, Bill proved himself to
Shop in North Hall is one place you can still be more than very nice. His unique blend of
get a Pepsi. innocence and good cheer drew people into
the closet-sized shop for coffee and popcorn.
You can also get a sandwich, a muffin, or a At the time, the College of Education operated
fifty-cent paperback. Hardcovers cost a dollar, a day care center on the second floor of North
A backpack will run you ten dollars. Forty Hall, and Bill received daily visits from the
gets you a chair, children. He became something of a cult
figure in Iowa City. As his entourage grew,
A lot of people come for the coffee. That was the coffee shop moved into its present larger
Bill's drink. Wild Bill Sackter was the space on the third floor of North Hall.
mentally retarded counter man who reigned All of which prompted Morrow, Bill's young
here for ten years. Until Bill died in 1983, guardian, to write his story. He did it in the
people mostly came to be near him. In the form of a screenplay called Bill. The script
years since his death, his friends and fans have was made into a television movie in 1982,
kept his memory alive by observing the annual starring Mickey Kooney as Bill Sackter. Both
Bill Sackter Days, this year on Nov. 13 and Rooney and Morrow won Emmy awards. The
14. film was rebroadcast twice a year for several
man. a movie, and a coffee shop:... Sackter Days celebrates all tthnp A ma.. a movie, and a coffee shop:... Sack'ter Days celebrates all tthttp:
years after its initial showing. According to Rainman, for which Morrow won an Oscar.
Walz, over 150 million viewers saw it. He's now at work on a new film, also on the
theme of the disabled, in collaboration with
"That brought a kind of visibility for the Steven Spielberg.
University and for Bill," Walz said. "The From noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at
letters poured in. We had to hire a secretary to Prairie Lights bookstore, Walz and Morrow
answer Bill's mail." will sign Walz's new book, The Unlikely
Celebrity: Bill Saclaefs Triumph over
But celebrity was brief. Bill died in 1983. The Disability, for which Morrow wrote the
shop did not. forward. That evening from 7:30-9:30 p.m. in
the Space Place in North Hall will be an e.vent
"There was a woman with mental retardation," called "Wild Bill's Chautau-qua," an evemng
Walz explained, "fi'om the Evert Conner of music, Sackter stories, and desserts hosted
Center for Rights and Resources for by Dan "Dr. Science" Coffey. Also present
Independent Living who said, 'I knew Bill, will be Rabbi Jeffrey Portman, who bar
and I'm not going to let you close down the mitzvahed Bill at age 67 and served as one of
coffee shop. I'm going to replace Bill.' She his guardians.
worked there for two years before she too Walz sees the shop, the celebration, and his
died. At that time we made a commitment to book as ways of keeping B. ill's .life and his.
expand the work opportunities for the adult contribution alive. In a umvers~ty commumty,
disabled." where students, faculty, and administrators
come and go, it's important to remind people
Since then, Wild Bill's Coffee Shop periodically that once there was a man like
continuously has employed adult persons with Bill here. The Unlikely Celebrity recounts
disabilities. The workers receive food and a some startling tales.
stipend, the maximum amount allowed
without jeopardizing their federal "A million stories built up around him," Walz
supplemental security income. In exchange, said, "including a very powerful one in which
they must be willing to interact with students Bill goes to University Hospital. Barry
in the School of Social Work as part of the Morrow's daughter had encephalitis and was
students' training in working with the in a coma. Bill wasn't allowed into intensive
disabled. It's never been a financially winning care because he wasn't family. When he was
proposition, and in an effort to keep the losses finally allowed in, he fell on his knees and
down Walz added books, antiques, and other started praying in tongues, lie walked over to
collectibles to the shop's wares. And where her crib, and she came out of it then and
does this bric-a-brac come from? there."
"I get done with my class at 8 p.m.," Walz Waiz hopes the book will generate some
said, "and you know where I go? I go to an revenue that he can put toward the
auction. I buy a truckload of goodies and bring maintenance of the shop. Currently, Walz
them back. It's my hobby. I refinish furniture." donates not only his time but also the salary he
earns for teaching an extra freshman seminar
Bill's memory lives on not only at the coffee on Gandhi to keep the shop afloat.
shop, but also in the annual Bill Sackter Days.
Most years it's a quiet affair, a chance for the It's a worthwhile labor. There's something
disabled and the abled to meet for supper and inviting about Wild Bill's, a pocket of quiet in
to honor Bill. Last year there was a harmonica the middle of the bustle of campus. Wooden
festival, in memory of Bill's favored chairs and banquettes invite guests to read,
instrument. This year, there are some special study, converse, and sip rather than slug down
events, their coffee. For students, the learning
experience has been consistently invaluable.
At 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13 in Shambaugh Bill's benevolent presence lingers there.
Auditorium, there will be a free screening of
the film Bill. Morrow, who is now a full-time "I'm trying to explain to the world why this
screenwriter living in California, will be on person became a celebrity, given ali the
hand to answer questions. The film launched a limitations," Walz said. "It wasn't because he
screenwriting career that includes the movie was retarded. It was because he was a gift to
the world."
4 0£5 by Sam Samuels
Introduction to Mental Retardation
What is mental retardation~
An indMdual is considered to have mental retardation based on the following three
criteria: intellectual functioning level (I(:;l) is below 70-75; significant limitations exist
in two or more adaptive skill areas; and the condition is present from childhood
(defined as age 18 or less) (AA/~R, 1992).
What are the adaptive skills essential for daily functionin.c~-~
Adaptive skill areas are those daily living skills needed to live, work and play in the
community. They include communication, self-care, home living, social skills,
leisure, health and safety, self-direction, functional academics (reading, writing,
basic math), community use and work
Adaptive skills are assessed in the person's typical environment across all aspects of
an individual's life. A person with limits in intellectual functioning who does not have
limits in adaptive skill areas may not be diagnosed as having mental retardation.
How many people are affected by mental retardation?
The Arc reviewed a number of prevalence studies in the early 1980s and concluded
that 2.5 to 3 percent of the general population have mental retardation (The Arc,
1982).
Based on the 1990 census, an estimated 6.2 to 7.5 million people have mental
retardation. Ment~al retardation is 10 times more common than cerebral palsy and
28 times more prevalent than neural tube defects such as spina bifida. It affects 25
times as many people as blindness (Batshaw, lg97).
N~ental retardation cuts across the lines of racial, ethnic, educational, sociat and
economic backgrounds. It can occur in any familY. One out of ten American
families is directly affected by' mental retardation.
How does mental retardation affect individuals?
The effects of mental retardation vary considerably among people, just as the range
of abilities varies considerably among people who do not have mental retardation.
About 87 percent will be mildly affected and will be only a little slower than average
in learning new information and skills. As children, their mental retardation is not.
readily apparent and may not be identified until they enter school. As adults, many
will be able to lead independent lives in the community and will no longer be
viewed as having mental retardation.
The remaining 13 percent of people with mental retardation, those with IOs under
50, will have serious limitations in functioning. However, with early intervention, a
functional education and appropriate supports as an adult, ail can lead satisfying
lives in the community.
How is mental retardation dia.qnosed?
The ~ process for diagnosing and classifying a person as having mental
retardation contains three steps and describes the system of supports a person
needs to overcome limits in adaptive skills.
The first step in diagnosis is to have a qualified person give one or more
standardized intelligence tests and a standardized adaptive skills test, on an
individual basis.
The second step is to describe the person's strengths and weaknesses across four
dimensions. The four dimensions are:
1. Intellectual and adaptive behavior skills
2. Psychological/emotional considerations
3. Physical/health/etiological considerations
4. Environmental considerations
Strengths and weaknesses may be determined by formal testing, observations,
interviewing key people in the individual's life, interviewing the indMdual, interacting
with the person in his or her daily life or a combinaUon of these approaches.
The third step requires an interdisciplinary team to determine needed supports
across the four dimensions. Each support idenUfied is assigned one of four levels of
intensity- intermittent limited, extensive, pervasive.
Intermittent support refers to suppor~ on an "as needed basis." An exampie would
be support that is needed in order for a person to find a new job in the event of a
job loss. Intermittent support may be needed occasionally by an individual over the
lifespan, but not on a continuous daily basis.
Limited support may occur over a limited Ume span such as during transition from
school to work or in Ume-timited job training. This type of support has a limit on the
time that is needed to provide appropriate support for an individual.
Extensive support in a life area is assistance that an individual needs on a daily basis
that is not limited by Ume. This may involve support in the home and/or support in
work. Intermittent, limited and extensive supports may not be needed in all life
areas for an individual.
Pervasive support refers to constant support across environments and life areas and
may include life-sustaining measures. A person requiring pervasive support will need
assistance on a daily basis across all life areas.
What does the term "mental aqe" mean when used to describe the person's
functioninq?
The term mental age is used in intelligence testing. It means that' the indMdua]
received the same number of correct responses on a standardized I~l test as the
average person of that age in the sample population.
Saying that an older person with mental retardation is like a person of a younger
age or has the "mind" or "understanding" of a younger person is incorrect usage of
the term. The mental age only refers to the intelligence test score. It does not
describe the level and nature of the person's experience and functioning-in aspects
of community life.
What are the causes of mental retardation?
Mental retardation can be caused by any condition which impairs development of
the brain before birth, during birth or in the childhood years. Several hundred
causes have been discovered, but in about one-third of the people affected, the
cause remains unknown. The three major known causes of mental retardation are
Down syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome and fragile X.
The causes can be categorized as follows:
Genetic conditions - These result from abnormality of genes' inherited from
parents, errors when genes combine, or from other disorders of the genes caused
during pregnancy by infections, overexposure to x-rays and other factors. More
than 500 genetic diseases are associated with mental retardation. Some examples
include PKU (phenylketonuria), a single gene disorder also referred to as an inborn
error of metabolism because it is caused by a defect/ye enzyme. Down syndrome is
an example of a chromosomal disorder. Chromosomal disorders happen
sporadically and. are caused by too many or too few chromosomes, or by a change
in structure of a chromosome. Fragile X syndrome is a single gene disorder located
on the X chromosome and is the leading inherited cause of mental retardation.
Problems dudn.q preqnancy - Use of alcohol or drUgs by the pregnant mother
can cause mental retardation. Recent research has implicated smoking in
increasing the risk of mental retardation. Other dsks include malnutrition, certain
environmental contaminants, and illnesses of the mother during pregnancy, such
as toxoplasmosis, cytomegaJovirus, rubella and s/phillis. Pregnant women who are
infected with HE/may pass the virus to their child, leading to future neurological
damage.
Problems at birth - Although any birth condition of unusual stress may injure the
infant's brain, prematurity and low birth weight predict sedous problems more often
than any other conditions.
Problems after birth - Childhood diseases such as whooping cough, chicken
pox, measles, and Hib disease which may lead to meningitis and encephalitis can
damage the brain, as can accidents such as a blow to the head or near drowning.
Lead, mercury and other environmental toxins can cause irreparable damage to the
brain and nervous system.
Poverty and cultural deprivation - Children in poor families may become
mentally retarded because of malnutrition, disease-producing conditions,
inadequate medical care and environmental health hazards. A]so~ children in
disadvantaged areas may be deprived of many common cultural and day-to-day
~xperie.nces provided to other youngsters. Research suggests that such under-
stimulation can result in irreversible damage and can serve as a cause of mental
retardation.
Can mental retardation be prevented?
During the past 30 years, significant advances in research have prevented many
cases of mental retardation. For example, every year in the United States, we
prevent:
250 cases of mental retardation due to phenylketonutia (PI~CI) by newborn
screening and dietary treatment;
1_,000 cases of mental retardation due to congenital hypothyroidism thanks to
newborn screening and thyroid hormone replacement therapy;
1,000 cases of mental retardation by use of anti-Rh immune globulin to prevent
Rh disease and severe jaundice in newborn infants;
5,000 cases of mental retardation caused by Hib diseases by using the Hib
vaccine;
4,000 cases of mental retardation due to measles encephalitis thanks to
measles vaccine; and
untold numbers of cases of mental retardation caused by rubella during
pregnancy thanks to rubella vaccine (Alexander, 1998).
Other interventions have reduced the chance of mental retardation. Removing lead
from the environment reduces brain damage in children. Preventive interventions
such as child safety seats and bicycle helmets reduce head trauma. Early
intervention programs with high-risk infants and children have shown remarkable
results in reducing the predicted incidence of subnormal intellectual functioning.
Finally, early comprehensive prenatal care and preventive measures prior to and
during pregnancy increase a womads chances of preventing mental retardation.
Pediatric AIDS is being reduced by AZT treatment of the mother during pregnancy,
and dietary supplementation with folic acid reduces the risk of neural tube defects.
Research continues on new ways to prevent mental retardation, including research
on the development and function of the nervous system, a wide variety of fetal
treatments, and gene therapy to correct the abnormality, produced by defective
genes. ' .
Multiple Sclerosis
Definition
^ disorder of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) involving
decreased nerve function associated with the formation of scars on the covering of
nerve cells
Alternative names: MS-
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Multiple sclerosis (MS)' affects approximately 1 out of 1,600 people. Women are
affected about 60% of the time. The disorder most commonly begins between 20
to 40 years old. MS is one of the major causes of disability in adults under age 65.
Multiple sclerosis involves repeated episodes of inflammation of nervous tissue in
any area of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). The location of the
inflammation varies from person to person and from episode to episode. The
inflammation destroys the covering of the nerve ceils in that area (myelin sheath).
This leaves multiple areas of scar tissue (sclerosis) along the covering of the nerve
cells. Sclerosis slows or blocks the transmission of nerve impulses' in that- area,
resulting in the development, of the symptoms of MS.
Symptoms vary because the location and extent- of each attack-varies: There is
usually a stepwise progression of the disorder, with episodes that last days, weeks,
or months alternating with times of reduced- or no symptoms (remission).
Recurrence (relapse) is common.
The exact cause of the inflammatiorr associated with MS is unknown. Geographic
studies indicate there may be an environmental factor involved with MS. It has a
higher incidence in northem Europe, northern Llnited States, sotzthem Australia,
and Hew Zealand than in other areas of the world. There seems to be a familial
tendency toward the disorder, with higher incidence in certain family groups than in
the general population.
An increase in the number of immune cells in the body of a person with MS
indicates that there may be a type of immune response that triggers the disorder.
The most frequent theories about the cause of multiple sclerosis- include a virus-
type organism, an abnormality of the genes responsible for control of the immune
system, or a combination of both- factors.
Risks include a family history of ~ and living in a geographical area with a higher
incidence rate for MS.
Prevention
There is no known prevention.
Symptoms
weakness of one or' more extremities
paralysis of one or more extremities
tremor of one or more extremities
muscle spasticity (uncontrollable spasm of muscle groups)
muscle atrophy
movement; dysfunctional slowly progressive beginning in the legs
numbness, decreased or abnormal sensation in any area
tingling
facial pain
pain in an extremity
may start suddenly
loss of vision -- usually affects one eye at a time
double vision
eye discomfort
rapid eye movements, uncontrollable
eye symptoms worsen on movement of the eyes
decreased coordination
loss of balance
decreased ability to control small or intricate movements
walking/gait abnormalities
muscle spasms (especially in the legs)
dizziness
vertigo
urinary hesitancy, difficult to begin urinating
strong urge to urinate (urinary urgency)
frequent need to urinate
incontinence (leakage of urine, loss of control over urination)
decreased memory
decreased spontaneity
decreased judgment
loss of ability to think abstractly
loss of ability to generalize
depression
decreased attention span
slurred speech
difficulty speaking or understanding speech
fatigue, tired easily
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
constipation
hearing loss
positive Babinski's reflex
i~ote: Symptoms may vary with each attack. They may last days to months, then
reduce or disappear, then recur periodically. Fever can trigger or worsen attacks, as
can hot baths, sun exposure, and stress.
Skins and tests
Symptoms of ~LS may mimic many other neurotogic disorders. A history of at
least two attacks separated by a period of reduced or no symptoms may indicate
the pattern of attack/remission seen in ]v~s. If there are observable decreases in any
functions of the central nervous system (such as abnormal reflexes), the diagnosis
of ~ may be suspected.
Examination by the health care provider may show focal neurologic deficits
(localized decreases in function).
This may include decreased' or abnorma[ sensation; decreased ability to move a
part of the body, speech or vision changes, or other loss of neurologic functions.
The type of neuro[ogic deficit may indicate, to some ~xtant, the location of the
damage to the nerves. Eye examination may show abnormal pupil responses,
changes in the visual fields or eye movemeni~, nystagmus (rapid'eye movements)
triggered by movement of the eye, decreased visual acuity, or abnormal findings on
a fundoscopy (an examination of the internal skuctures of the eye).
Tests that indicate or confirm multiple sclerosis include:
EEG (electroencephalogram), including looking forchanges in brain waves in
response to sounds or visual stimuli
BERA (brainstem evoked response audiometry)
visual evoked response
head ~kRl scan that shows scarring ora lesion
spine ~4RI scan that shows scarring or a lesion
lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
CiSF cell count
CSI~ oligoc]onal banding
Treatment
There is no known cure for multiple sclerosis. Treatment is aimed at controlling
symptoms and maintaining function to give the maximum quality of life.
Medications vary depending on the symptoms that occur. Baclofen, dantrolene,
diazepam or other anti-spasmodic medications may be used to reduce muscle
spasticity. Cholinergic medications may be helpful to reduce urinary problems.
Antidepressant medications may be helpful for mood or behavior symptoms.
Amantadine may be given for fatigue.
Corficosteroids or ACTH (a hormone that stimulates the body to produce
increased amounts of its own corticosteroids) may be used to suppress the
inflammation in an attempt to reduce the duration of an attack
See corticosteroids - oral for information on similar medications./qedications that
suppress the immune system may be helpful. Interferon may be helpful for some
people.
Physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, or similar forms of
therapy may be helpful. This may improve the person's outlook, reduce depression,
maximize function, and improve coping sl~lls. A planned exercise program early in
the course of the disorder helps to maintain muscle tone. Social work, counseling,
and support groups may aid in coping. For this condition, see multiple sclerosis -
support group.
A healthy lifestyle is encouraged, including good general nutrition. Adequate rest
and relaxation help to maintain energy levels. Attempts should be made to avoid
fatigue, stress, physical deterioration, temperature extremes, and illness to reduce
factors that may trigger an MS attack.
Prognosis
The expected outcome is variable and unpredictable. Although the disorder is
chronic and incurable, life expectancy can be normal or nearly so, with a life span
of 35 or more years after diagnosis occurring commonly. /vlost people with MS
continue to walk and function at work with minimal disability for 20 or more years.
The amount of disability and discomfort varies with the severity and frequency of
at~acks and the part of the central nervous system affected by each attack.
Commonly, there is initially a re~um to normal or near-normal function between
at'tacks. As the disorder progresses, there is progressive loss of function with less
improvement between attacks.
There is a rare, acute type of MS that can cause death within weeks tO a few
years. There is also a benign form of his that develops relatively few symptoms for
many years.
Complications
progressive disability
urinary tract infections
side effects of medications used to treat the disorder
Cerebral Palsy
Definition
A group of disorders characterized by loss of movement or loss of other nerve
functions. These disorders are caused by injuries to the brain that occur during fetal
development or near the time of birth.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The incidence of cerebral palsy is approximately2 to 4 individuals for every-1000
births. Cerebral palsy results from injury to the cerebrum (the largest portion of the
brain, involved with higher mental faculties, sensations, and voluntary muscle
actdviUes).
IniUally cerebral palsy was thought to be related to birth asphyxia and trauma but
in a study of 45,000 births it was shown that birth asphyxia is an uncommon cause
of cerebral palsy. The cause of hypoxia (Iow oxygen) to the damaged areas of the
brain has not been adequately made clear, but it is believed that there are
predisposing factors occurring during the development of the fetus that makes it
more susceptible to hypoxia. Premature infants have a slightly higher incidence of
cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsymay also occur during early infancy as a result of
cerebral injury caused by illnesses (encephalitis, meningiUs, herpes simplex
infections, and so on), head injury that results in subdural hematoma, blood vessel
injuries, and many others.
Injury to the cerebrum can result in the loss of nerve functions in widely different
areas. The classical finding of CP is spasticity (increased muscle tone) which may
affect a single limb, one side of the body (spastic hemip[egia), both legs (spastic
diplegia) or both arms and legs (spastic quaddplegia). In addition there may be
partial or full loss of movement (paralysis), sensory abnormalities, and defects of
hearing and vision. Speech abnormalities are common and seizures may occur.
[nteilectual function may range from ~xtremely bdght normal to severe mental
retardation. Symptoms are usually evident before age 2 and in severe cases may
appear as eady as three months; Cerebral palsy is a non-progressive type of
encephalopathy (injury to the brain) and symptoms directly resulting from the
disease do not worsen.
Classifications of cerebral palsy include spastic, dyskinetlc, ataxic, and mixed
cerebral palsy. Spastic cerebral palsy includes about 50% of cases. Dyskinetic
(athetoid) cerebral palsy affects about 20%. It' involves development of abnormal
movements (twisting, jerking, or other movements). Ataxic cerebral palsy involves
tremors, unsteady gait, loss of coordination, and abnormal movements; it affects
about 10%.
The remaining 20% are classified as mixed, with any combination ofsymk,~.oms.
Prevention
Adequate prenatal care may reduce the risk of some rare causes of cerebral palsy,
however, dramatic improvements over the lest 15 years in obstetrical care at
delivery has not reduced the incidence of cerebral palsy. In most cases, the injury
causing the disorder may not be preventable.
Symptoms
seizures
muscle contractions
difficulty sucking or feeding
irregular breathing
delayed development of motor skills, such as reaching; sitting, rolling; crawling,
walking, and so on
motormental retardation
mental retardation
speech abnormalities (dysarthria)
visual abnormalities
hearing abnormalities
spasticity
progressive joint contractures
limited range of motion
peg teeth
Signs and tests
Examination indicates delayed development of motor skills in many cases.
Infantile reflexes (such as sucking and startle) may persist, past the age where they
usually disappear. ~4usc]e tremor or spesticity may be evident, with a tendency of
infants to tuck their arms in toward their sides, scissors movements of the legs, or
other abnormal movements.
Vadous laboratory tests maybe performed to eliminate nutritional or other causes
of the symptoms:
Iv!RI of the head demonstrates structural or congenital abnormalities
CT scan of the head demonstrates structural or congenital abnormalities
hearing screen (to determine auditory status)
visual testing (to determine visual status)
EECi
Treatment
There is no specific cure for cerebral palsy. The goal of treatment is to maximize
independence. Treatment is guided by the symptoms exhibited and may include
physical therapy, braces, appropriate glasses and hearing aids, medications, special
education or appropriate schooling; and, in severe cases; institutionalization.
/V~ainstreaming in regular schools is advised unless physical disabilities or mental
development makes this impossible. Glasses, hearing aids, or other equipment
must be designed specifically for the particular disabilities and may assist with
communication and learning: Physical therapy, occupational therapy; orthopedic
intervention, or other treatments may be appropriate.
Medications may include muscle relaxants to reduce tremors and' spasticity, and
anticonvuisants to prevent or reduce the frequency of seizures.
Surgery may be needed in some cases t~ release joint contractures which- are a
progressive problem associated with spasticity. Surgery may also be necessary for
placement of feeding tubes and to control gastroesophageal reflux.
The stress of coping with this disorder can often be helped by joining a support
group where members share common experiences and problems. See cerebral
palsy - support group.
Pro,qnosis
Cerebral palsy is a lifelong disorder. Long-term care may be required. The
disorder does not affect expected length of life. The extent of disability varies.
Complications
seizures
injuries from falls
reduced mobility
reduced communication skills (sometimes)
reduced intellect (sometimes)
Definition
A genetic condition caused by spontaneous breaks in the long arm of the X
chromosome.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Fragility of the long arm of the X chromosome is thought to be a result of
increased methylation at the site of the break. The Fragile X accounts for
approximately one-third of all X-tinked mental retardation in males and one-tenth of
that in females. This syndrome occurs in approximately ] out of 2,000 males and 1
out of 1,000 females.
Prevention
Genetic counseling may be of benefit for prospect~e parents with a family history
of Fragile X syndrome.
Symptoms
family history of fragile X syndrome
mental retardation
large ears
oversized testes in the male
~ i_~_~_ a n d tests
Measurement of testes in males and a chromosome analysis helps confirm the
diagnosis. There are very few outward signs of Fragile X syndrome. Mental
retardation is the hallmark of this condition and, in females, about the only finding.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment of Fragile X syndrome. Instead, effort is directed
toward training and education of the child with this condition.
.Pro,qnos s
The outcome depends on the extent of retardation.
Co_.~.~_~lications
Complications vary depending on the type and severity of symptoms.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
www. icgov.org October 28, 2003
CITY COUNCIL The Honoreble Charles Gressley
U.S. Senate
135 Hart Senate Office Bldg.
Ernest W. Lehman
Mayor Washington, D.C. 20510
Dee Vanderhoef Dear Senator Grassley:
Mayor Pro Tern
Connie Champion We are writing to voice our concems about the impact of the USA PATRIOT Act. Many
Steven Kanner citizens have come to us with these same concerns.
Mike O'Donnell
Irvin Pfah Iowa City is, in some respects, an international community. Local residents from needy
Ross Wilburn every corner of the wodd reside here. They are faculty, staff, and students at The
Univemity of Iowa, our business and prefessional colleagues, service workere and laborers
in the community, parents of our school children, and our friends and neighbors.
Whether we are United States citizens or not, Iowa City residents enjoy the benefit of
participating in a vadety of organizations and interest greups, some of which cleady
address global interests and concerns. At times, these greups may reise issues that are
questioning or even cdtical of United States policy. We are concerned that there are
elements within the USA PATRIOT Act that may compremise our rights to reise these
questions or to be cdtical of certain policies and prectices of our government. In that vein,
many local residents have come to us questioning the constitutionality of certain previsions
of the Act and have asked that we communicate those concerns on their behalf.
The purpose of this letter is to urge you to carefully examine the vadous previsions of the
USA PATRIOT Act and to work to remove any of those previsions that may threaten the
basic rights of individuals to speak freely and openly and to legitimately express their
convictions by way of free speech and legally permissible activities.
We are aware of the difficulty our government faces every day in attempting to protect us
all from acts of terrorism. Certainly the USA PATRIOT act was enacted to make anti-
terrorist efforts more effective. We support strong measures to guarantee the safety and
protection of everyone in this great nation. However, to the extent that any such measures
may threaten those fundamental dghts upon which our republic was built, we urge you to
join in opposition. Likewise, we oppose any attempt to eliminate the sunset provisions of
the USA PATRIOT Act that would provide a necessary congressional review of the law
before making it permanent. Please ensure that the USA PATRIOT Act does not abridge
our rights by giving careful consideretion to its impact on the lives and liberties of all who
reside in America.
council~iowa-city.org Mayor Mayor Pro Tern Council Member
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240 .<~s.t~~
Phone: (319) 356-5010 Steven Kanner Mike O'Donnell Ross Wiibum
Fax: (319)356-5009 Council Member Council Member Council M~nber Council Member
CITY OF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org October 28, 2003
CITY COUNCIL The Honorable Jim Leach
House of Representatives
Ernest W. Lehman 2186 Rayburn House Office Bldg.
Mayor Washington, D.C. 20515
Dee Vanderhoef Dear Mr. Leach:
Mayor Pro Tern
Connie Champion We are wdting to voice our concems about the impact of the USA PATRIOT Act. Many
Steven Kanner citizens have come to us with these same concems.
Mike O'Donnell
lrvin Pfab Iowa City is, in some respects, an intemational community. Local residents from neady
Ross Wilburn every comer of the world reside here. They are faculty, staff, and students at The
University of Iowa, our business and professional colleagues, service workers and laborers
in the community, parents of our school children, and our fdends and neighbors.
Whether we are United States citizens or not, Iowa City residents enjoy the benefit of
participating in a variety of organizations and interest groups, some of which cleady
address global interests and concerns. At times, these groups may raise issues that are
questioning or even cdtical of United States policy. We are concemed that there ara
elements within the USA PATRIOT Act that may compromise our rights to raise these
questions or to be critical of certain policies and practices of our government. In that vein,
many local residents have come to us questioning the constitutionality of certain previsions
of the Act and have asked that we communicate those concerns on their behalf.
The purpose of this letter is to urge you to carefully examine the various provisions of the
USA PATRIOT Act and to work to remove any of those provisions that may threaten the
basic rights of individuals to speak freely and openly and to legitimately express their
convictions by way of free speech and legally permissible activities.
We ara aware of the difficulty our government faces every day in attempting to protect us
all from acts of terrorism. Certainly the USA PATRIOT act was enacted to make anti-
terrorist efforts more effective. We support strong measures to guarantee the safety and
protection of everyone in this great nation. However, to the extent that any such measures
may threaten those fundamental rights upon which our republic was built, we urge you to
join in opposition. Likewise, we oppose any attempt to eliminate the sunset previsions of
the USA PATRIOT Act that would provide a necessary congressional review of the law
before making it permanent. Please ensure that the USA PATRIOT Act does not abridge
our rights by giving careful consideration to its impact on the lives and liberties of all who
reside in Amedca.
Dee Vanderhoef ./)' Connie Champion,'
council@iowa-city.org Mayor Mayor Pr_,~o Tern r._/ Council Member
410 E. Washington Street '//,~7~b~),~,"~
Io,va 5224°
Phone: (319) 356-5010 Steven Kanner ~ Irvin Pfaff/' Ross Wilburn
Fax: (319) 356-5009 Council Member Council Member Council Mdmber Council Member
CITY OF IOW^ C~TY
www.icgov.org October 28, 2003
CITY COUNCIL The Honorable Tom Harkin
U.S. Senate
Ernest W. Lehman 731 Hart Senate Office Bldg.
Mayor Washington, D.C. 20510
Dee Vanderhoef Dear Senator Harkin:
Mayor Pro Tern
Connie Champion We are wdting to voice our concems about the impact of the USA PATRIOT Act. Many
Steven IO~nner citizens have come to us with these same concerns.
Mike O'Donnell
lrvin Pfab Iowa City is, in some respects, an intemational community. Local residents from nearly
Ross Wilburn every comer of the world reside hera. They am faculty, staff, and students at The
Univemity of Iowa, our business and professional colleagues, service workem and laborem
in the community, parents of our school children, and our friends and neighbors.
Whether we are United States citizens or not, Iowa City residents enjoy the benefit of
participating in a vadety of organizations and interest groups, some of which clearly
address global interests and concerns. At times, these groups may raise issues that are
questioning or even cdtical of United States policy. We am cencemed that them are
elements within the USA PATRIOT Act that may compromise our rights to raise these
questions or to be cdtical of certain policies and practices of our government. In that vein,
many local residents have come to us questioning the constitutionality of certain provisions
of the Act and have asked that we communicate those concerns on their behalf.
The purpose of this letter is to urge you to carefully examine the vadous provisions of the
USA PATRIOT Act and to work to remove any of those provisions that may threaten the
basic rights of individuals to speak freely and openly and to legitimately express their
convictions by way of free speech and legally permissible activities.
We am aware of the difficulty our government faces every day in attempting to protect us
all from acts of terrorism. Certainly the USA PATRIOT act was enacted to make anti-
termdst efforts more effective. We support strong measures to guarantee the safety and
protection of everyone in this gmat nation. However, to the extent that any such measures
may threaten those fundamental rights upon which our republic was built, we urge you to
join in opposition. Likewise, we oppose any attempt to eliminate the sunset provisions of
the USA PATRIOT Act that would provide a necessary congressional review of the law
before making it permanent. Please ensure that the USA PATRIOT Act does not abridge
our rights by giving careful consideration to its impact on the lives and liberties of all who
reside in Amedca.
council~iowa-city.org Mayor Mayor Pro Tern Council Member
Iowa City, IA 52240
Phone: (319)356-5010 Steven Kanner Mike O'Donnell Ross Wilburn
Fax: (319)356-5009 Council Member Council Member Council Member Council Member
CITY OF IOWA CITY
www. icgov.org October 28, 2003
CITY COUNCIL ,. The Honorable Jim Leach
~ House of Representatives
Ernest W. Lehman ~,186 Rayburn House Office Bldg.
Mayor V~shington, D.C. 20515
Dee Vanderhoef Dear'Mr. Leach:
Mayor Pro Tem
Connie Champion We are Writing to voice our concerns about the ' USA PATRIOT Act. Many
Steven Kanner citizens have come to us with these same concerns.
Mike O'Donnell
Irvin Pfab Iowa City is, in some respects, an intemational Local residents from neady
Ross Wilburn every comer of th9 wodd reside here. faculty, staff, and students at The
University of Iowa, Our business and professio ues, service workers and laborers
in the community, par~ts of our school child~ and our friends and neighbors.
Whether we are United ~txates citizens not, Iowa City residents enjoy the benefit of
participating in a vadety of~ and interest groups, some of which cleady
address global interests and times, these groups may raise issues that are
questioning or even cdtical States policy. We are concemed that there are
elements within the USA may compromise our rights to raise these
questions or to be critical of certai~ and practices of our government. In that vein,
many local residents have come I Jestioning the constitutionality of certain previsions
of the Act and have asked that u ~unicate those concerns on their behalf.
The purpose of this letter is I , carefully examine the various provisions of the
USA PATRIOT Act and to ~ any of those provisions that may threaten the
basic dghts of individuals openly and to legitimately express their
convictions by wa: ermissible activities.
We are aware of the government fl every day in attempting to protect us
all from acts of t Certainly the USA act was enacted to make anti-
terrorist efforts We support to guarantee the safety and
protection great nation. However ) the extent that any such measures
may fundamental rights upon which republic was built, we urge you to
join in opposition. _ikewise, we oppose any attempt sunset provisions of
the Act that would provide a ressional review of the law
before making i Please ensure that does not abridge
our rights by g careful consideration to its impact on lives and liberties of all who
reside in AmE
Sincerely,
/
Ernest W. lehman Dee Vanderhoef Connie Champion
cotmcil~iowa-city.org Mayor Mayor Pro Tern Council Member
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
Phone: (319) 356-5010 Steven Kanner Mike O'Donnell Irvin Pfab Ross Wilbum
Fax: (3]9)356-5009 Council Member Council Member Council Member Council Member
CiTY OF IOWA
www. icgov.org October 28, 2003
CITY COUNCIL The Honorable Tom Harkin
U.S. Senate
Ernest W. Lehman 731 Hart Senate Office BI
Mayor Washington, D.C. 20510
Dee Yanderhoef Dear Senator Harkin:
Mayor Pro Tern
Connie Champion We are writing to voice our about the impact USA PATRIOT Act. Many
Steven [Canner citizens have come to
Mike O'Donnell
Irvin ]'fab Iowa City is, in some respects, international Local residents from nearly
Ross Wilburn every corner of the world reside They faculty, staff, and students at The
University of Iowa, our business lues, service workers and laborers
in the community, parents our fdends and neighbors.
Whether we are United States citizel Iowa City residents enjoy the benefit of
participating in a vadety of interest groups, some of which clearly
address global interests and concerns, limes, these groups may raise issues that are
questioning or even cdtical of United policy. We are concerned that there are
elements within the USA PATRIOT may compromise our dghts to raise these
questions or to be critical of certain and practices of our government. In that vein,
many local residents have come to the constitutionality of certain provisions
of the Act and s on their behalf.
The purpose of this letter is to you to ~ ' examine the vadous provisions of the
USA PATRIOT Act and remove , of those ' ' that may threaten the
basic rights of individuals freely a openly and to legitimately express their
convictions by way of free
We are aware of the dif in attempting to protect us
all from acts Certainly the USA act was enacted to make anti-
terrorist efforts more We support measures to guarantee the safety and
protection of ever great nation. H( to the extent that any such measures
may threaten those/,u,,uu,,, rights upon w~ built, we urge you to
join in opposition./Likewise, we oppose any att eliminate the sunset provisions of
the USA PATRIO/T Act that would provide a n~ congressional review of the law
before making it,permanent. Please ensure that 1 USA PATRIOT Act does not abridge
our rights by giv, ing careful consideration to its on the lives and liberties of all who
reside in AmedOa.
Sincerely,
Ernest W. Lehman Connie Champion
council~iowa-city.org Mayor Mayor Pro Tem Council Member
410 E. Washington Street \
Iowa City, IA 52240 '
Phone: (319) 356-5010 Steven Kanner Mike O'Donnell Irvin Pfab Ross Wilburn
Fax: (319)356-5009 Council Member Council Member Council Member Council Member
CITY OF IOWA
www. icgov.org October 28, 2003
CITY COUNCIL The Honorable Chades Grassley
U.S. Senate
Ernest W. Lehman 135 Hart Senate Office Bldg.
Mayor Washington, D.C. 20510
Dee Vanderhoef Dear Senator Grassley: .'
Mayor Pro Tern
Connie Champion We are wdting to voice our the impact of the PATRIOT Act. Many
Steven Kanner citizens have come t, these same concerns.
Mike O'Donnell
Irvin Pfab Iowa City is, in some an international commun Local residents from nearly
Ross Wilburn every corner of the world here. They are staff, and students at The
University of Iowa, our and professional service workers and laborers
in the community, children, and and neighbors.
Whether we are United States or not, City residents enjoy the benefit of
participating in a variety of groups, some of which cleady
address global interests and ~ groups may raise issues that are
questioning or even cdtical of policy. We are cencemed that there are
elements within the USA PATRIOT may compromise our dghts to raise these
questions or to be cdtical of certain s and practices of our government, in that vein,
many local residents have come to us ¢ the constitutionality of certain provisions
of the Act and have aske~ those concerns on their behalf.
The purpose of this letter is to ur , examine the various provisions of the
USA PATRIOT Act and to work t ~ny of those provisions that may threaten the
basic rights of individuals to freely openly and to legitimately express their
convictions by wa) legall]s.
We are aware of the difficul' day in attempting to protect us
all from acts of terrorism, vv the USA act was enacted to make anti-
terrorist efforts more effe~ve, We supp )rt st~ measures to guarantee the safety and
protection of everyone in/this great nation. Hov to the extent that any such measures
may threaten those fun~lamental rights upon wh our republic was built, we urge you to
join in opposition. Lik .~.!se, we oppose any attE eliminate the sunset provisions of
the USA PATRIOT/~t that would provide a nE congressional review of the law
before making it perrpanent. Please ensure that ti USA PATRIOT Act does not abridge
our rights by giving/~areful consideration to its im lives and liberties of all who
reside in America. /
Sincerely,
Ernest W. Lehl ~an Dee Vanderhoef Connie Champion
co~ncil~iowa-city.org Mayor Mayor Pro Tern Council Member
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
Phone: (319)356-5010 Steven Kanner Mike O'Donnell Irvin Pfab Ross Wilbum
Fax: (319) 356-5009 Council Member Council Member Council Mc Council Member
Draft letter to legislators re: the USA PATRIOT Act
October 22, 2003
Dear
I am writing on behalf of the City Council of Iowa City and many citizens who have urged the
City Council to voice our concerns about the impact of the USA PATRIOT Act.
Iowa City is, in some respects, an international community. Local residents from nearly every
corner of the world reside here. They are faculty, staff, and students at The University of Iowa,
our business and professional colleagues, service workers and laborers in the community,
parents of our school children, and our friends and neighbors.
Whether we are United States citizens or not, Iowa City residents enjoy the benefit of
participating in a variety of organizations and interest groups, some of which clearly address
global interests and concerns. At times, these groups may raise issues that are questioning or
even critical of United States policy. We are concerned that there are elements within the USA
PATRIOT Act that may compromise our rights to raise these questions or to be critical of certain
policies and practices of our government. In that vein, many local residents have come to us
questioning the constitutionality of certain provisions of the Act and have asked that we
communicate those concerns on their behalf.
The purpose of this letter is to urge you to carefully examine the various provisions of the USA
PATRIOT Act and to work to remove any of those provisions that may threaten the basic rights
of individuals to speak freely and openly and to legitimately express their convictions by way of
free speech and legally permissible activities.
We are aware of the difficulty our government faces every day in attempting to protect us all
from acts of international terrorism. Certainly the USA PATRIOT act was enacted to make anti-
terrorist efforts more effective. We support strong measures to guarantee the safety and
protection of everyone in this great nation. However, to the extent that any such measures may
threaten those fundamental rights upon which our republic was built, we urge you to join Jn
opposition. Please ensure that the USA PATRIOT Act does not abridge those rights by giving
careful consideration to its impact on the lives and liberties of all who reside in America.
Sincerely,
Ernest W. Lehman
Mayor
Marian Karr
From: j ulie-spears~uiowa.ed u
Sent: Tuesday, October 21, 2003 11:39 AM
To: cou ncil~iowa-city.org
Cc: eleanor-dilkes@iowa-city.org; steve-atkins@iowa-city.org
Subject: Draft letter to Congress Re: PATRIOT Act
Council Letter to
Congress.doc.. Dear Council Members,
First, on behalf of the Iowa City Bill of Rights Defense Committee, I want to
thank you for reviewing this issue in the work session on October 13th and
during Council time on October 14th.
Please find attached and pasted below a proposed draft of a letter that you may
use to compose the letter that you will send to our Congressional delegation,
pending an affirmative vote to do so. This is clearly a reworking of the spirit
of the proposed resolution. And, I offer it with a sincere hope that I may
assist Council in this process.
Please feel free to contact me for any additional information or assistance in
this process.
Much thanks,
Julie Spears
IC-Bill of Rights Defense Committee
i019 Church St.
Iowa City, IA 52245
319.354.6589 home
319.335.4932 work
City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, IA 52245
Dear Senator Harkin/Senator Grassley/Representative Leach,
As you know, the City of Iowa City is a politically diverse and democratic
community whose residents are committed to preserving the human rights and
civil liberties enunciated in the U.S. Constitution. As the City Council of
Iowa City, we take seriously our responsibility and oath to uphold the U.S.
Constitution.
We understand that in the wake of the tragic attacks on September 11, 2001,
Congress took measures to heighten national security. However, we feel that
many aspects of these measures, in their domestic implementation, represent an
assault on the 1st, 4th, 5th, 6th, 8th and 14th Amendments to the Constitution.
Specifically, the USA PATRIOT Act, several Federal Exedutive Orders and
governmental edicts, and the Homeland Security Act now directly compromise
these Constitutional rights.
Taken together, the above references Acts and Executive Orders contain
provisions constitute a dramatic erosion of the civil liberties and human
rights established for the people of the United States of America with few
historic precedents.
In order to act in the spirit and history of our community, we would like to
reaffirm the Constitutional rights of all people within the city, including
1
United States citizens and many citizens of other nations in our community. For
this reason, we are taking measures to monitor the local affects of the USA
PATRIOT Act on the City of Iowa City. For example, we maintain that Iowa City
officials and employees are to hold the United States Constitution as the
ultimate legal authority whenever its provisions conflict with those of the
above-referenced Acts and Executive Orders.
We have directed the City Manager to regularly report to the City Council and
make publicly available to the extent legally permissible the number of
requests by federal agents under the USA PATRIOT Act to the Iowa City Police
Department for information or collaboration regarding Iowa City residents from
federal, state, and local government entities relevant to the above-referenced
Acts and Executive Orders.
Further, on its own accord, the Iowa City Public Library deletes of patrons
records on a daily basis, has posted a warning to library users in prominent
places within the library and on the library website regarding Section 215 of
the federal USA PATRIOT Act, and the library director, or her designee, will
send for review any warrants for library patrons records by the City Attorney.
As the City Council of Iowa City, IA, we respectfully call upon the Iowa
Congressional Delegation to take all legally appropriate action to repeal those
unconstitutional provisions of the above-referenced Acts and Executive Orders.
Likewise, we oppose any attempt to eliminate the sunset provisions of the USA
PATRIOT Act that would provide a necessary congressional review of the law
before making it permanent.
This letter was read three times to the public and voted on by City Council on
XYZ, 2003. It is also posted for general public view on the City website.
Sincerely,
Members of the Iowa City City Council
CC: Ail affected City departments
Johnson County District Attorney
Iowa State Police
Iowa Congressional delegation
Iowa Statehouse delegation
Iowa Attorney General
Governor of the State of Iowa
Local United States Attorney
United States Attorney General
President of the United States
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City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, IA 52245
Dear Senator Harkin/Senator Grassley/Representative Leach,
As you know, the City of Iowa City is a politically diverse and democratic community whose residents are
committed to preserving the human rights and civil liberties enunciated in the U.S. Constitution. As the City
Council of Iowa City, we take seriously our responsibility and oath to uphold the U.S. Constitution.
We understand that in the wake of the tragic attacks on September 11, 2001, Congress took measures to
heighten national security. However, we feel that many aspects of these measures, in their domestic
implementation, represent an assault on the 1 st, 4th, 5th, 6th, 8fl~ and 14th Amendments to the Constitution.
Specifically, the USA PATRIOT Act, several Federal Executive Orders and governmental edicts, and the
Homeland Security Act now directly compromise these Constitutional rights.
Taken together, the above references Acts and Executive Orders contain provisions constitute a dramatic
erosion of the civil liberties and human rights established for the people of the United States of America ~vith
few historic precedents.
In order to act in the spirit and history of our community, we would like to reaffirm the Constitutional rights of
all people within the city, including United States citizens and many citizens of other nations in our
community. For this reason, we are taking measures to monitor the local affects of the USA PATRIOT Act on
the City of Iowa City. For example, we maintain that Iowa City officials and employees are to hold the United
States Constitution as the ultimate legal authority whenever its provisions conflict ~vith those of the above-
referenced Acts and Executive Orders.
We have directed the City Manager to regularly report to the City Council and make publicly available to the
extent legally permissible the number of requests by federal agents under the USA PATRIOT Act to the Iowa
City Police Department for information or collaboration regarding Iowa City residents from federal, state, and
local government entities relevant to the above-referenced Acts and Executive Orders.
Further, on its own accord, the Iowa City Public Library deletes of patrons records on a daily basis, has posted
a warning to library users in prominent places within the library and on the library website regarding Section
215 of the federal USA PATRIOT Act, and the library director, or her designee, will send for review any
~varrants for library patrons records by the City Attorney.
As the City Council of Iowa City, IA, we respectfully call upon the Iowa Congressional Delegation to take all
legally appropriate action to repeal those unconstitutional provisions of the above-referenced Acts and
Executive Orders. Likewise, we oppose any attempt to eliminate the sunset provisions of the USA PATRIOT
Act that would provide a necessary congressional review of the law before making it permanent.
This letter was read three times to the public and voted on by City Council on XYZ, 2003.
It is also posted for general public view on the City website.
Sincerely,
Members of the Iowa City City Council
cc: All affected City departments
Johnson County District Attorney
Iowa State Police
Iowa Congressional delegation
Iowa Statehouse delegation
Iowa Attorney General
Governor of the State of Iowa
Local United States Attorney
United States Attorney General
President of the United States
Marian Karr
From: Rachel Antonuccio [rcantonuccio@yahoo.com]
Sent: Thursday, October 16, 2003 4:22 PM
To: Mayor Ernie Lehman
Subject: Re: The Patriot Act
Rachel Antonuccio
223 McLean Street
Iowa City, IA 52246
October 16, 2003
Mayor Ernie Lehman
City Council
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Mayor Lehman:
As your constituent, I urge you to support the resolution reaffirming Iowa
City's commitment to protecting civil liberties. Iowa City should join the
dozens of communities around the country that have spoken out against the
flawed USA PATRIOT Act and further restrictions of our civil liberties.
Mr. Lehman -
I'm writing in regard to the Patriot Act resolution that was discussed at
the City Council meeting on the 13th. I understand your position that
passing a resolution only symbolic in nature, could seem like a wholly
ineffectual move. While I realize that this resolution won't formally
enforce anything, I feel that the s~nnbolism in a resolution like this one
has the potential to ultimately create efficacious action. In addition to
the admittedly smaller implications this resolution could have at the
federal level, I believe it could have enormous impact at the state and
city level. The power behind one of Iowa's biggest cities' council is
something that should not be underestimated, and I can personally speak to
the feelings of faith and solidarity it would give me with this city,
should it be passed.
The Iowa City resolution is necessary to respond to ill-considered
provisions of the PATRIOT Act and to urge our representatives in Congress
to oppose all violations of our civil liberties.
I believe that the PATRIOT Act goes beyond fighting terrorism and turns
all Americans into suspects. For example, the USA PATRIOT Act gives law
enforcement broad access to many types of records without probable cause
of a crime. It also prohibits the holders of this information, like
librarians, from disclosing that they have produced such records, under
the threat of imprisonment. It is the City Council's duty to inform Iowa
City residents of possible violations of their civil liberties, especially
when it might involve a City agency. This resolution calls for public
dialogue between residents and city officials, and I hope that it will
still be considered seriously.
Currently, more than 181 communities -- and three states -- have passed
resolutions in support of civil liberties. These communities understood
that the USA PATRIOT Act and other federal measures affect every local
resident. They realized that city employees might be asked to comply with
federal directives and, in many situations, violate civil liberties.
The Iowa City resolution reaffirms the City's dedication to liberty and it
gi¥~s the City Council an opportunity to discuss these issues with City
employees and receive reports from the City Manager. The city Council's
duty is to stay informed about every possible violation of the rights
guaranteed by the US and Iowa constitutions. Iowa City residents deserve
to know that the City Council is no less concerned about their
constituents' civil liberties than are local leaders elsewhere~
Once again, I urge you to support this resolution opposing the flawed USA
PATRIOT Act and further restrictions on our civil liberties.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this matter.
Sincerely,
Rachel C. Antonuccio
Marian Karr
From: Brendan F~gibbons [Brendan-Fitzgibbons@uiowa.edu]
Sent: Sunday, October 19, 2003 9:01 PM
To: Mayor Emie Lehman
Subject: Patriot Act
Brendan Fitzgibbons
336 S Clinton St
IOwa City , IOWA 52240
October 19, 2003
Mayor Ernie Lehman
City Council
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Mayor Lehman:
As your constituent, I urge you to support the resolution reaffirming Iowa
City's commitment to protecting civil liberties. Iowa City should join the
dozens of comxaunities around the country that have spoken out against the
flawed USA PATRIOT Act and further restrictions of our civil liberties.
As you probably know, the USA PATRIOT Act was passed by Congress just 45
days after the September 11 terrorist attacks with virtually no debate. I
believe legislation of this breadth and severity deserved greater
consideration and review. The Iowa City resolution is necessary to respond
to ill-considered provisions of the PATRIOT Act and to urge our
representatives in Congress to oppose all violations of our civil
liberties.
I believe that the PATRIOT Act goes beyond fighting terrorism and turns
all Americans into suspects. For example, the USA PATRIOT Act gives law
enforcement broad access to many types of records without probable cause
of a crime. It also prohibits the holders of this information, like
librarians, from disclosing that they have produced such records, under
the threat of imprisonment. It is the City Council's duty to inform Iowa
City residents of possible violations of their civil liberties, especially
when it might involve a City agency. This resolution calls for public
dialogue between residents and city officials.
Currently, more than 181 communities -- and ~hree states -- have passed
resolutions in support of civil liberties. These communities understood
that the USA PATRIOT Act and other federal measures affect every local
resident~ They realized that city employees might be asked to comply with
federal directives and, in many situations, violate civil liberties.
The Iowa City resolution reaffirms the City's dedication to liberty and it
gives the City Council an opportunity to discuss these issues with City
employees and receive reports from the City Manager. The City Council's
duty is to stay informed about every possible violation of the rights
guaranteed by the US and Iowa constitutions. Iowa City residents deserve
to know that the City Council is no less concerned about their
constituents' civil liberties than are local leaders elsewhere.
Once again, I urge you to support this resolution opposing the flawed USA
PATRIOT Act and further restrictions on our civil liberties.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this matter.
Sincerely,
Brendan Fitzgibbons
Page 1 of 1
Marian Karr
From: RGivens@cornellcollege.ed u
Sent: Wednesday, October 22, 2003 4:09 PM
To: council@iowa-city.org
Members of the Iowa City Council,
Please distribute the attached message at your forthcoming meeting.
Robert D. Givens
Co-President, Hawkeye Chapter,
Iowa Civil Liberties Union
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10/22/03
October 22, 2003
To Members of the City Council of Iowa City:
The Hawkeye Area Chapter of the Iowa Civil Liberties Union recently learned that the Iowa City
Council is preparing to send a letter to the members of the Iowa congressional delegation in
protest of provisions of the recent USA PATRIOT Act. At its bimonthly meeting on Sunday,
October 19, the board of directors of the chapter strongly supported the council's decision to take
this action.
The USA PATRIOT Act is a very complex piece of legislation; a number of its provisions are
not well understood. Many Americans believe this measure to be a justifiable response to a
threat of unprecedented proportions. Of course, many authoritarian states have used this same
justification to violate the civil liberties of their citizens.
One of our concerns is that the USA PATRIOT Act makes legitimate expression of political
views a criminal act. The act has defined a new crime, domestic terrorism. This offense
includes "acts dangerous to human life that are a violation of criminal laws... [appearing]...to be
intended to influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion." This imprecise
wording can easily be applied to acts of civil disobedience, or other legitimate efforts to
influence government policy, and can stifle the traditional rights of free speech.
Immigrants are particularly threatened by the USA PATRIOT Act. By expanding the types of
association categorized as "terrorist activity," this legislation makes it dangerous for non-citizens
to affiliate with many legitimate organizations. Activities such as soliciting funds or members
may now be defined as a form of terrorism, even if an individual is unaware of any deleterious
implications.
As the site of a major university, Iowa City has traditionally been receptive to ideas and
scholarship from other countries. We are greatly troubled by the potential effect of the USA
PATRIOT Act on both the exchange of ideas within the United States and the exchange of ideas
with other peoples. Section 411 of the act makes entry into the US dependent upon a political
litmus test. Moreover, the effort to ferret out so-called subversive activity has been extended to
investigations of American citizens.
A further concern of the Hawkeye Chapter is the USA PATRIOT Act's provisions for search and
seizure. This legislation significantly lowers the threshold for surveillance of telephone and e-
mail communication. The latter is particularly open to intrusion, since older limitations on
investigators are virtually impossible to apply.
We were pleased to learn of the council's initiative in addressing citizen concerns about the USA
PATRIOT Act. In bringing these matters to the attention of the Iowa congressional delegation
you will be performing a service of great benefit to the entire community.
Sincerely yours,
Robert D. Givens, Co-President
Hawkeye Area Chapter of the Iowa Civil Liberties Union
Before you affix your signatures to your letter about the Patriot Act, [,.~ Page 1 of 3
Marian Karr
From: Herd, Jim [james-herd@uiowa.edu]
Sent: Tuesday, October 28, 2003 9:15 AM
To: 'cou ncil@iowa-city.org'
Subject: Before you affix your signatures to your fetter about the Patriot Act,
Would you please take a few minutes to read this article?
Thank you,
Jim Herd
1202 Friendly Ave.
Iowa City, IA 52240-5731
The Patriot Act's Surprising Defenders
From the November 3, 2003 issue: Joe Biden and Diarme Feinstein step up to the plate.
by David Tell, for the Editors
11/03/2003, Volume 009, Issue 08 THE WEEKLY STANDARD
IT WAS A TOUGH AND TRICKY CROWD. When Joe Lieberman took the stage, on October 17, and politely
reaffirmed his commitment to the security of a Jewish state in Israel, he was booed and heckled for it. Yet the
next day, when it was his turn to address the Dearborn, Michigan, candidates' forum sponsored by James
Zogby's Arab American Institute, Howard Dean went over like gangbusters. Not because his message on the
Middle East was so much better received, mind you. Dean's condemnation of deliberate, violent assaults on
civilian irmocents--"the vast majority of Arab Americans and Arabs in general do not think that terrorism is
appropriate, and we need to be clear about that"--fell noticeably flat, in fact, winning only "scattered applause,"
as the session's official transcript recounts. Dean's lusty attacks on the Bush administration, however, were a
great deal more successful. Particularly when he went after the Justice Department for its implementation of
domestic counterterrorism measures authorized by the USA Patriot Act of 200 I, a law which is "shameful" and
"morally wrong" and "unconstitutionaI." For this, Howard Dean got a standing ovation.
It never fails. Democrats running for office think attacking the Patriot Act is a winner. Wesley Clark, Dean's
leading rival for the presidential nomination in every national poll, says the Patriot Act has "essentially
suspended habeas corpus," and nobody seems to mind that Clark's charge is "essentially" baseless. Senator John
Edwards says he's "horrified" by what the Patriot Act has wrought and wants a fair chunk of it canceled--this,
barely two years after Edwards, along with every other Democratic senator but one, voted to enact the thing to
begin with. Edwards, too, routinely denounces the Patriot Act for producing law enforcement "excesses" that,
truth be told, long predate that law, lie far outside its purview, or are entirely imaginary. And Edwards, too,
routinely gets standing ovations in the process.
So who'll defend the Patriot Act? Unfortunately, there's hardly a single Republican who can do the job
effectively.
A fair number of Republicans don't want to defend the Patriot Act, of course. Patrick Leahy of Vermont--yet
another Democratic senator who was only recently proud to vote yes on the question--now boasts that
opposition to the law exists "across the political spectrum, from the far right to the far left." And he is right
about that, though his inadvertently suggestive "far" speaks more to a certain irritable, anti-government reflex
than to any coherent ideological impulse, conservative or liberal.
10/28/03
Before you affix your signatures to your letter about the Patriot Act, Page 2 of 3
Former Republican congressman Bob Barr has lately joined forces with the ACLU to campaign against a Patriot
Act ("Mr. Barr? Mr. Barr votes 'aye.'") that represents "an official step into the Brave New World of 1984."
Longtime Republican activists Grover Norquist and David Keene are pleased to appear, with the likes of Alec
Baldwin and People for the American Way's Ralph Neas, at anti-Patriot Act teach-ins. Pretty much the entire,
all-Republican Idaho congressional delegation is now leading a forceful legislative charge to repeal certain key
sections of the Patriot Act, and they are winning bipartisan support even from senators and representatives
xvhose home states don't--yet--have a black helicopter problem.
Indeed, so low has the Patriot Act's reputation fallen that Marc Racicot, the chairman of President Bush's
reelection campaign, is afraid to endorse it in public. "I'm not aware of any act, or any piece of legislation ever
that has been undertaken by human beings, who are certainly subject to imperfections, that has ultimately ended
up in a situation where it did not have to be refined," Racicot stuttered in response to an audience member's
question during his own presentation to the Arab American Institute on October 17. His "expectation," Racicot
offered, "although I certainly have not talked with the president about this issue," is that "refinements to that
act.., so that it does not end up invading the civil rights of any American [is] a cause that will be undertaken."
This will be news to Attorney General John Ashcroft, who for his part continues to stump the country hither and
yon, giving speeches about the 150-plus terrorism convictions made possible only by the Patriot Act--about
how federal agents, using investigative tools freshly granted to them by that law, have since disrupted terrorist
cells in Buffalo, Seattle, Portland, and Detroit. And so on.
But here, alas, Ashcroft is engaged in what's probably a hopeless effort. For all practical political purposes, the
poor man is no longer one of those imperfect human beings Marc Racicot talks about. Ashcroft, instead, has
become a cartoon, as sometimes happens in our public life (think Dan Quayle). And the cartoon Ashcroft is
"authoritarian"--and too "divisive" to persuade any but the already persuaded that "authoritarian" isn't quite the
right word to apply to his Justice Department or to the Patriot Act the department is administering. It's gotten to
the point where Ashcroft is automatically blamed for things he can't possibly have done. At a Senate Judiciary
Committee hearing on the Patriot Act last week, the attorney general came under a shower of abuse for ducking
an appearance even though, as committee chairman Orrin Hatch eventually pointed out, Ashcroft hadn't actually
been invited.
Now, Orrin Hatch is a fine fellow, don't get us wrong. And he is not exactly alone; Ashcroft and the Patriot Act
still enjoy broad Republican support on Capitol Hill. But party loyalists like Hatch are less than ideally situated
to reassure America that the Bush administration's war on terrorism is other than a fascist plot. In an atmosphere
of such intense suspicion, the arguments of party loyalists can only be sold at the deepest of discounts--insofar
as they can be sold at all.
No, what the Patriot Act really needs are some Democratic defenders.
And, we're pleased to report, it now has two. They deserve a loud round of applause, and a great deal more
publicity.
At last week's Senate hearing, Joe Biden of Delaware didn't have to say that "the tide of criticism" being
directed against the Patriot Act "is both misinformed and overblown," that "I stand by my support" of that law,
and that the Ashcroft Justice Department has "done a pretty good j ob in terms of implementing" the law's
provisions. But Biden did say all these things, anyway. And California's Dianne Feinstein went further still, in a
stern and lengthy lecture about the concrete reality of U.S. anti-terrorism law--as opposed to the paranoiac
fantasy version now being circulated throughout the land by the likes of Bob Barr and Howard Dean. How's
about we concentrate on some facts, Feinstein suggested.
"I've tried to see what has happened in the complaints that have come in," she said, "and I've received to date
21,434 complaints about the Patriot Act." Except these turned out to be unrelated civil liberties gripes, or
10/28/03
Before you affix your signatures to your letter about the Patriot Act, Page 3 of 3
complaints about a "Patriot Act II" that doesn't yet exist. "I have never had a single [verified] abuse of the
Patriot Act reported to me. My staff emailed the ACLU and asked them for instances of actual abuses. They
emailed back and said they had none."
The widespread hullabaloo over the Patriot Act, Senator Feinstein concluded, proceeds from "substantial
uncertainty.., about what this bill actually does do." And "perhaps some ignorance," she added.
We'd challenge that "perhaps" part. Otherwise, we're with Dianne Feinstein a hundred percent. Wonders never
cease.
--David Tell, for the Editors
(c) Copyright 2003, News Corporation, Weekly Standard, All Rights Reserved.
10/28/03
Page 1 of 1
Marian Karr
From: Caroline Dieterle [caroline-dieterle@uiowa.edu]
Sent: Tuesday, October 28, 2003 12:28 PM
To: cou ncil@iowa-city.org
Subject: Support Civil Liberties in America
There are a lot of people in this nation who believe civil rights ARE a "local issue" and have taken action
because of the USA PATRIOT ACT.
- Caroline Dieterle
............... Text of forwarded message ...............
Support Civil Liberties in America
Date: Sat, 25 Oct 2003 00:44:14-0500
Status:
Three states and 197 cities, towns, and counties have passed resolutions or
ordinances protecting the civil liberties of their 25,502,303 residents. Hundreds
more are in progress.
CONGRATULATIONS to the NEW SAFE ZONES of Bisbee, AZ; Robbinsdale,
MN; Urbana and Danby, NY; Bayard, Los Alamos County and Grant County,
NM; Sarasota, FL; Durham and Chapel Hill, NC; San Ramon, CA; and
Huntington, WV (ordinance!).
10/28/03
IOWA CITY BILL OF RIGHTS DEFENSE COMMITTEE
October 28, 2003
Suggested Additions to the PATRIOT Act Letter to Congress
1. Not only a First Ameudment issue. (After Paragraph 3 ADD):
In addition to our concerns regarding freedom of speech and assembly provided by the First
Amendment, we are also troubled by the aspects USA PATRIOT that compromise any and all
Constitutional rights to due process, a speedy and public trial, and equal protection as well
as freedom from unreasonable search and seizure and cruel and unusual punishment (i.e.,
4th, 5th, 6th, 8th and 14th Amendments to the Constitution).
2. Let Congress know we will monitor the local affects: (After Paragraph 3 ADD):
For this reason, we am taking measures to monitor the local affects of the USA PATRIOT
Act on the City of Iowa City.
Specifically, under consideration is a directive to the City Manager to report regularly and
make publicly available to the extent legally permissible the number of requests by federal
agents under the USA PATRIOT Act to the lowa City Police Department for information or
collaboration regarding Iowa City residents from federal, state, and local government entities
relevant to the USA PATRIOT Act.
POLICE CITIZENS REVIEW BOARD
A Board of the City of Iowa City
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City IA 52240-1826
(319)356-5041
October 15, 2003
Mayor Ernest W. Lehman
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
Dear Mayor and Council Members:
At the October 14, 2003 meeting, the PCRB voted in open session to request a 45 day
extension in addition to its regular 45-day reporting deadline for the Public Report according to
the City Code for PCRB Complaint #03-05, #03-06, and #03-07 for the following reasons:
· Due to timelines and scheduling.
· Public Reports presently due November 13, 2003
45-day Extension request - Reports would be due on December 29, 2003
The Board appreciates your prompt consideration of this matter.
Sincerely,
Loren Horton, Chair
Police Citizens Review Board
cc: City Attorney