ARE YOU READY?

773. Welcome to today’s Blog. Today I want to do a recap of the property tax fiasco and where it stands today and what we can do going forward. So here is a recap.

Jim Paine posted this on his Facebook page:

The City of Superior experienced a significant increase in property valuations, with all properties increasing by an average of 60%, and residential properties alone by 70%, leading to higher property tax bills for residents.

The Superior Telegram finally runs their one and only story on the tax scandal which was the most commented story on social media in 2024. That was 13 days since the story broke. And it was nothing short of a puff piece with no new information. And the Duluth Tribune didn’t even run the story. Are you shaking your head yet? I am and Mr. Neck is too.

START WITH VOTING THEM OUT!!

774. The City of Superior elections are right around the corner. Appropriately, they are on Tuesday April 1, 2025. You know what else is going on April 1st? The price of Mega Millions lotto tickets are going up from 2 bucks to 5 bucks a ticket.

775. Anyway, back to politics. The final day for filing to run was January 7, 2025. That was only a couple of weeks after we got the property tax bills. You have to wonder if we got the bills in August or September if all 5 of the seats would have been contested. With the amount of anger surrounding these taxes, I think we would have 5 races instead of 2. But that’s life and we need to move forward and concentrate on the 2 races before us. Below are the seats up for election:

776. The 2 seats that have an opponent are District 2, Jenny Van Popsicle and District 6, Tooler Elmo.

Let’s start with District 2, Jenny from the block. What can I say about her? Just Google her name and just like her husband Mayor Paine, she always seems to be involved with something sketchy, nefarious or questionable and she should not have ever been allowed to be an Alderperson in the first place because the Mayor is her husband. And I’m not picking on her, that should be in rules of the City of Superior. No family member of the Mayor of the city should be able to run for council. Period, end of story. Check out this story from July 4, 2019:

777. Remember that mess? Our friends at Soupnutz.net just ran a story on the Popsicle. Wait, you don’t like my nickname for her? I guess I could have called her Jenny Van Hammer And Sickle. It would have been fitting as well. Anyway here is the article:

City Councilor Jenny Van Sickle Hopes You’re Too Stupid to Realize She’s Hitched to Mayor Jim Paine?

“I have not acted immorally or illegally, but I very clearly am aware of the hurt that I’ve caused. I have said before and to Mr. Prell directly, I’m not particularly proud of that,” Van Sickle said.

Ah, marriage! That sacred bond where two people pledge their lives to each other, share a home, and—if you’re Jenny Van Sickle and Mayor Jim Paine—pretend the other doesn’t exist on public records.

Yep, these two are legally married since 2020, yet they’ve managed to pull off the most spectacular political disappearing act since Watergate.

Now, if you thought this was just a small-town political soap opera, think again. Jenny Van Sickle isn’t just any council member—she’s the only one with her name etched in Alaska state supreme court history. That’s right, the Alaska Supreme Court had to rule on her attempt to move her child out of state, overriding a custody agreement she already had with her ex in Alaska.

Once upon a time, Jenny Van Sickle was Jenny Weed, and she shared joint custody of her child in Alaska with her ex, Joshua McGraw.

But in 2002, she moved to Michigan, got married, and became Jenny Van Sickle. Rather than follow the already agreed-upon custody arrangement, she tried to sidestep Alaska’s legal ruling by filing in Michigan to gain sole custody.

The Michigan courts laughed her out of the room, ruling they had no jurisdiction. Meanwhile, McGraw—who clearly saw what was happening—filed a countercase in Alaska, arguing she was manipulating the system.

The Alaska Supreme Court agreed, ruling that:

• Van Sickle tried to override their custody agreement by filing in another state.
• She showed hostility toward her ex, making false accusations against him when mad.
• The child had strong family ties in Alaska, and McGraw was more willing to co-parent.

Translation? The court saw through her tactics and ruled in favor of the father.

So while Jenny Van Sickle now sits on the Superior City Council preaching about ethics, she holds the unique distinction of being the only council member with a supreme court-certified history of trying to bend legal agreements for personal gain.

Most married couples file taxes together, acknowledge each other on legal documents, and—crazy thought—actually live together.

But Jim and Jenny? 
They’ve taken “playing house” to a whole new level—where the rules change whenever it suits them.

So the next time Mayor Jim Paine and Jenny Van Sickle “Paine” try to pull another shady land deal, someone should ask them:

“Are you governing the city? Or are you just covering for each other?”

And while you’re at it, maybe ask Jenny what it’s like to be the only city council member immortalized in an actual State Supreme Court ruling.

Because that’s a distinction you won’t see on her campaign signs.

“Perhaps you wouldn’t have so many questions about your own news stories if you weren’t inventing them as you went along?

Jenny Van Sickle "Paine"

Complaining About Fox 21 Asking Questions

Thanks to Soupnutz.net for another great article and you can go to their site for many more.

Next is an article from Craig Sutherland’s Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/craig.sutherland.771

Craig Sutherland

 Dec 20, 2024

PLEASE SHARE!!!?!

Hey East End, Allouez and Itasca…

Friday 12/20/24 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sarah Anderson Announces Candidacy for City Council in Superior’s 2nd District

Superior, WI – Sarah Anderson, a Licensed Mental Health Professional with St. Louis County Public Health and Human Services and long-time resident of Superior, WI, has officially announced her candidacy for the City Council in the 2nd District. A passionate advocate for transparency, honesty, and community-focused leadership, Anderson is committed to being a strong and independent voice for the residents of Superior.

“I am running for City Council because I believe it’s time for a new, fresh perspective in our leadership,” said Anderson. “Our city needs leadership that listens to and represents the needs of its people. I want to bring transparency to our local government, challenge the status quo, and help build a brighter future for our youth, our businesses, and our entire community.”



Anderson, who has lived and raised her family in the East End/Allouez neighborhood since 2007, has a deep connection to the community. In her role as a Licensed Mental Health Professional, Anderson has developed a strong ability to listen, understand, and work collaboratively with individuals from all walks of life. In addition, she has a role as the spouse of a small business owner here in Superior. Her experiences and perspectives give her depth and understanding of the needs of the community.

Anderson is active in the running community within the twin ports, she spends lots of her time watching Superior Spartan HS sports where her kids participate, and her husband has been a long time coach. As Sarah’s kids have gotten older, she spends her free time volunteering at various events around the area. 

As a candidate, Anderson is committed to focusing on the following key issues:

• Transparency and Accountability: Bringing honesty, openness, and integrity to the decision-making process within the city government. Ensuring residents have a clear understanding of how and why decisions are being made.
• Community Engagement and Listening to Constituents: Creating a city government that listens to the concerns and needs of residents, ensuring that their voices are heard and valued in the decision-making process.
• Economic Development and Support for Local Businesses: Working with local businesses and labor leaders to foster ethical, sustainable economic development that supports job growth, strengthens our economy, and ensures the well-being of all residents.
• Investing in Our Youth and Future: Championing programs and policies that provide opportunities for youth to thrive and succeed in Superior, helping to build a foundation for a strong future for the city.

“I’m passionate about this community and want to be a voice that truly represents the needs of the people,” Anderson continued. “I want to ensure that we have a city council that is committed to the success of all residents, one that listens, collaborates, and works toward a shared vision for a better, more prosperous future.”

Anderson’s candidacy brings a unique perspective and a strong commitment to the values of transparency, ethical governance, and community-centered leadership. As a distance runner, Anderson understands the importance of endurance, dedication, and persistence—qualities that will guide her work on behalf of the people of Superior.

"I’ve lived here, raised my family here, and built a life here. Now I want to give back and ensure that Superior continues to be a place we can all be proud to call home," said Anderson.

Sarah Anderson is ready to challenge the status quo and fight for the issues that matter most to the residents of the 2nd District.

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia 

Tool Academy is a competitive reality television show featuring "unsuspecting bad boys" (and women) who have been sent to "relationship boot camp". The contestants, all of whom have been nominated by their respective partners, initially think they are taking part in a competition for a title. However, shortly after arriving they find out the truth: they are actually being entered into a "charm school" which focuses on teaching them how to behave as partners. Each week, one contestant is eliminated and his/her partner must choose whether or not to stay with him/her. The last contestant remaining wins a $100,000 prize. The show was hosted by reality television show host Jordan Murphy alongside relationship counselor Trina Dolenz, who helped the contestants with their relationship problems and decided who was expelled. 

Next up is from Craig Sutherland’s Facebook Jan 1, 2025

Craig Sutherland

 Jan 1, 2025

A solid candidate to run for the 6th district! Good luck Randal Wuorinen you will do good for Superior.

 Jan 1, 2025

Announcement: Randal Wuorinen for City Council – District 6, Superior, WI

Good afternoon and Happy New Year!

My name is Randal Wuorinen, and I am excited to announce my candidacy for City Council in Superior, WI, representing District 6

As a lifelong resident of Superior since the age of 7, I hold a deep appreciation and love for our community. I am a proud father of two amazing young men, and I’ve been dedicated to supporting their growth and activities, including over three years of coaching for one of my sons, with plans to do the same for my other son in the coming years.

I have decided to run in this upcoming election because I believe our city needs fresh ideas and new perspectives on the City Council. I am committed to being part of the change that will move Superior forward.

One of my primary goals is to address the pressing need for improved resources for mental health and addiction in our community. These issues affect so many families, and I am determined to advocate for better access and support in these critical areas.

Additionally, I aim to bring more accountability and transparency to the City Council,

particularly in matters related to the city budget and spending. Implementing a stronger system of checks and balances is essential to ensure our community’s resources are used responsibly and effectively.

Above all, I am dedicated to serving the residents of District 6 by listening to your concerns, answering your questions, and working diligently to find solutions. My priority is to ensure that your voices are heard and represented in City Council decisions.

Thank you in advance for your support. Together, we can create a brighter future for Superior!



Sincerely,

Randal Wuorinen

779. Tooler Elmo has been a major disappointment to me personally. I have always advocated for more business people in elected positions and less academia people like teachers, community organizers, non-profit workers, career politicians etc. Tooler is from the world of business but as a city councilman he has acted more like he came from the world of academia so I guess there is always exceptions to the rule.

He owns a computer business in town and my wife and I had been customers there for years. The staff was always knowledgeable. The products always good as well as all the repairs. My impression is that it is a very well run business.

But as councilman he is quite the opposite. His district is home to the Palace as well as Melissa Hyatt’s doughnut shop. Remember those texts between Mayor Paine and her in many of the Blogs? Well Tooler was also on the Melissa texts as well. When she came a knockin’, he came a rockin’. But one thing Tooler never did was contact us to ask any questions or concerns. Keeping in mind we were shut down in 2022, I didn’t know that Tooler was involved in any conversations with Paine and Hyatt until 2023.

My wife as well as Jordan Wheat (the potential buyer of the Palace at the time) did have some exchanges with him and here they are:

Tylor Elm - Mr No Help at All

780. To the best of my recollection, two stories of Tylor Elm come to mind.

The first one was as owner of Shorty's Pizza & Smoked Meat. The annual 4th of July festivities were being planned and a lady entered the restaurant asking for donations towards the Dennis Van Alstine Memorial Car Show. 

At that time, the car show was held along Tower Avenue. She had explained that she had taken over the reins of the annual event. It seemed like she didn't have much info from past car shows and was looking for help. I told her she should reach out to the BID and Tylor Elm, Councilor for the 6th District, Downtown. She came back to me and revealed that because his business, discoverpc.net-Computer Solutions Center was not going to be open on Independence Day, that he either was not interested in helping her or couldn't. You sir, are still the Councilor for that district. Thanks for nothing! And keep in mind that July 4th is one the biggest days for many businesses on Tower ave.

Secondly, Jordan Wheat, potential buyer of Palace Bar, was asked by Mayor Paine to reach out to the different Councilors about the purchase of the Palace back in 2022. 

Jordan did what she was asked to do and sent professional, respectful emails to all Councilors in regards to the Palace. She wanted to personally review her resume, business plan and have an exchange of ideas with the Councilors to better paint a picture of her concept for JJ's Bar going forward. A few Councilors were more than happy to meet with her, a few spoke with her over the phone shortly before the Superior City council meeting on December 6, 2022. And then there was Councilor Tylor Elm, 6th District, Downtown that replied with following an email:

"Jordan, Thank you for writing.

I would suggest attending the city council meeting and let the entire council know what you'd like to communicate. This would allow you to make comments with all the councilors at once during the public meeting. I believe you can also have other members of the public speak as well if you'd like to get their point of view or to speak their comments.

You can contact the city clerk about that process, their phone number is (715) 395-7200. Be sure to be aware of any time limits.

Additionally, you are also welcome to email all the city councilors at citycouncil@ci.superior.wi.us

Thank you, Tylor Elm"

Email date Wed, 30 Nov 2022

Jordan did respond to Elm's email stating she wanted a sit down with him. She received no reply.

781. Now how's that for a Councilor!! Nothing says responsive government and commitment to community like a form letter from the Downtown Councilor! And that of course is after requesting a phone call from the Mayor & Chief of Police. Wonder if he can walk and chew gum at the same time? 

It’s important because it sets the tone going forward. Jim Paine and the Superior City Council have and are leading us down a clear path of destruction. Out of control taxes, discouraging businesses, shady deals, no legal protection for citizens, only for them, lack of quality people and much more. Getting rid of Tylor Elm and Jenny Van Sickle would send a clear message to Mayor Paine and City Council that we are fed up with this type of leadership. Voting them back in would result in more of the same. These two candidates have caused way more bad than good and have not earned and don’t deserve another term. It’s time for a change and this would be a good start. You have the power to make it happen.

That’s it for today’s Blog. Thanks for reading and we will see you all next time.