[Mpls] Announcing my candidacy for Park Board

[CAROL KUMMER]

Friends: 
 
I am announcing my candidacy for election to the Minneapolis Parks and
Recreation Board.  I want to continue representing the people of the 5th
Park District. 
 
I understand the important role of a park commissioner in the community.
I have been the personal point of contact for citizens to answer their
questions, solve problems, or get their viewpoints on policy decisions
before the Board. 
 
I listen to all in the community.  I attend neighborhood and NRP
meetings.  I return all calls and am always available to address your
concerns. 
 
My goals are an improved, more accessible and sustainable park
environment, recreational opportunities for all ages and, as always,
more responsive government. 
 
Our parks are absolutely vital to our city and neighborhoods and to the
lives of everyone who calls Minneapolis home.  The parks serve many
purposes: as a place to play, a place where we can learn to appreciate
the environment, and a place where our community comes together.
Structured park activities teach skill in sports, arts, and crafts,
while the unstructured time we spend there is a unique opportunity to
discover the natural world of which we are a part.
 
Our parks must be protected.  Our urban forest must be replenished and
preserved. The Minnehaha Creek watershed and Mississippi River are
treasures we must and will protect.  Park services must be maintained
despite budget cuts.
 
I can't imagine Minneapolis without its parks that are so central to our
families' lives. My kids spent their childhoods in the area parks - on
the playground equipment, learning to skate and swim, and diving for
golf balls.  My grandson slept under his mother's desk at Fuller Park
and later learned to play soccer in the little kids' program. For the
past 23 months, I have fought hard to keep these wonderful assets viable
and vibrant during the hardest financial times in our memory. 
 
I would be deeply honored and privileged to represent our park community
again.  
 
Please feel free to call me at 612-722-0370 or write to me at
carolkummer at earthlink.net.
 
Carol Kummer
Park Board Commissioner 
District 5