How you can support the union

AFSCME 3800 is conducting the first strike at the University of Minnesota in 50 years. I wrote many people and on my weblog to ask for support for the strike.

Here are some things you can do to help.

  1. Write University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks to let him know that you believe workers deserve a fair contract and that your opinion of the University has declined. The PR battle against the University is vital to the union's success. His address is Office of the President, 202 Morrill Hall, 100 Church St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455. You can reach him by email at bruin001@umn.edu and by phone at 612-626-1616.
  2. Write a letter to the editor of the Star Tribune and Pioneer Press supporting the union.
  3. Donate to the union's hardship fund.
  4. Attend the community benefit scheduled for U strikers on Saturday, October 25 at 7 PM at the CWA Local 7200 hall, 3521 E. Lake St., Minneapolis. Speakers will include the AFSCME 3800 president and a representitive from Yale University Federation of Hospital and University Employees.
  5. Donate food and drink for the picketers. The union also has a food shelf for members in need that you can donate to, but I cannot find information about it online. Contact the union for information.
— October 22, 2003

The future of blogs

David Weinberger has an interesting set of predictions about what will happen when blogs get really popular.
— October 22, 2003

RIP, Elliot Smith

Musician Elliot Smith has died at 34 of an apparent suicide.

That's sad. I have many fond memories of listening to his music.

— October 22, 2003