Posted by melindakay (anonymous) on August 18, 2008 at 9 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dear City Council,
Congratulations on turning down good money and jobs for our city. I'm so glad to have you representing us.

Greg is right - they are two totally separate projects. How asinine would someone have to be to not attend a college because a scary movie was once filmed there. The true things that have been rumored to happen at the RTC are much scarier than any movie.

Posted by chrreed (anonymous) on August 18, 2008 at 9:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I bet if there were younger people on the council, the outcome (decision) would have been different!

Posted by metasonics (anonymous) on August 18, 2008 at 9:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Tim Jensen and Greg Stumbo, should be applauded for standing up in the face of adversity and remembering who they were elected to serve.

"According to Anderson, leaders at Chinese universities have said they would never allow a film of this genre to be filmed in their dormitories."

after reading this article, I must admit, those who criticized me for suggesting some elected officials were catering to the wishes of foreign interests over our own people should be set to rest.

Anderson even provided the proof.
The Chinese are calling the shots already and these dormitories are to be theirs!

all one would need to do is watch the Olympics to see that chairman Mao is as popular as ever in China.
his face is plastered everywhere, just over the past week a Minnesotan was murdered in China.

how long until Anderson fills the Chinese in on what sort of things took place in reality at the RTC?

oh that's right, only ghost stories upset the Communist party, not human rights abuses or using mentally handicapped individuals to club to death developmentally disabled persons after being sexually abused by employee's, as documented at our public library.

after all in China, the mentally disabled are still blindfolded and shot in the back of the head, and handicapped children are thrown over cliffs.

Jamie Cooper

Posted by username (anonymous) on August 18, 2008 at 10:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh. You must have a laptop.

Posted by username (anonymous) on August 18, 2008 at 10:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Cooper, do you do anything all day long BESIDES hover over the forums?

Posted by ffrogg (anonymous) on August 18, 2008 at 10:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

why is there shackles in the rtc building anyway?
http://flickr.com/photos/weisert/1579445...
http://flickr.com/photos/weisert/1578553...

did they chain people there in the past?

Posted by metasonics (anonymous) on August 18, 2008 at 10:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

username, well lets see? aside from attending city council meetings, filming television shows, taking care of my handicapped son, talking with people involved with building our school, researching facts, visiting our library, taking care of my dog, recording the occasional song, keeping in touch with my fans, and coping with living day to day with a disease that affects me differently every day.
no, I don't do much other than hover over forums.
Jamie Cooper

Posted by jeepman (anonymous) on August 18, 2008 at 11:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why does this continue to happen? When will FF learn to move into the present and try something new? I would really like to start seeing some concrete documentation regarding the Chinese deal. Is this something that is really happening and who's really calling the shots.

Posted by hightag08 (anonymous) on August 18, 2008 at 11:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Cooper, you forgot to put practicing with Sal and Jonesy in your list...

Posted by theweasel (anonymous) on August 18, 2008 at 11:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If this city council does not get their heads out of their collective butts they will hand the next election to a mental midget like Jamie Cooper, then everyone will be sorry and it will take years to correct, stop handing this guy the ammunition he needs to get elected.

Posted by olson736 (anonymous) on August 18, 2008 at 11:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If you people would take the time to watch the city council meeting. You will never hear a statement that the chinese universities had any input in the CDG decision.

Jamie Cooper, your comments are way out of line and should be removed. To be so ignorant that those things happen only shows that you are in no way qualified to represent anybody.

The CDG group stated consistently that they do not want a movie that portrays the future college campus in a negative light.

Nobody knows how negative they were going to be in portraying the care provided at the RTC. It was suggested by Kiefer the Peg Access film person that the film features a MN insane asylum. There is only one in the state. Even if it was filmed in another location they still intend to portray Fergus Falls negatively so why not let them do it here. Given choices like that I applaud the council for making a responsible decision.

Posted by farawaythankgod (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

yup - that's what they do. They throw disabled children off cliffs and murder innocent Minnesotans. All .... the .... time.

Posted by FFHSStudent08 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 1:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ALL I CAN SASY IS THAT OUR CITY COUNCIL MUST BE A BUNCH OF IDIOTS! This makes me mad that our council is so stuck up that they block something that could draw attention and business to our city. Just, seriously, WOW! Somebody should get this council to overturn their decision or set them strait!

Posted by metasonics (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 2:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think I may have a solution to benefit for all concerned except those who support foreign interests.

after a great deal of consideration and in hopes of finding a mutual solution for all of us in this city.
I propose that the former RTC be renovated to preserve the historical integrity of at least the oldest structures as well as to be fit for what I am offering.
I would like to see it become the new ottertail county historical museum, additionally, I would like to see our public library move operations to this location as well.

the current site of the museum could be reused for retail or other business offerings, the library could expand to fill as much room as they need, while WE as a community could stop hiding from the history of the RTC which is both gruesome and wholesome, and instead embrace our past and preserve it for future generations.
we could perhaps move the offices for our entire historical society to the RTC as well.
this would provide both reuse and preservation of this landmark.
We could stop trying to hide from our history, which is impossible anyway.

the 3000+ graves could remain untouched and un-desecrated, and instead would could honor those lost souls.
We have a great opportunity here to provide education as well as solve the concerns of so many of our community.

I haven't talked with anyone who could help facilitate this proposal, instead I am bringing it directly to YOU to decide and voice your opinions as to how you feel.

this is Your community and these are the type of solutions you can expect from me, should you decide to vote for me to represent you this November.

thank you,
Jamie Cooper

Posted by metasonics (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 5:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)

additionally, after more consideration, I offer the current library could be converted to the new police dept.
this would keep our police dept in close proximity to the existing county jail and save tax dollars all around, perhaps the library would consider and even trade for renovated space in the RTC?

Posted by positivelyperham (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 5:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

wow, i was just researching the attrocities that occured at the RTC back in the day. its horrible, and they are afraid of a film ruining the rep??? here is what i would do. contact a big time producer and director and have them make a "real" movie about the RTC. it would be much scarier than anything the other guy could come up with, factual AND put fergus falls on the map for its "caring" past and vision for the future lol. or better yet have ghost hunters tv show come in and show us that this facility is haunted. i have seen the economic upsurge that haunted places draw and it is huge. people arent afraid anymore they want to see it. until then lets see some concrete progress on this so called china school. who is calling the shots and where EXACTLY is the report and info as to where this project stands. and i dont mean some city council clown telling me his opinion. lets see where this so called deal is right now. kind of funny how the RTC was in danger of being blown up and all of a sudden this fantastic china opportunity came along. hmmmmm, sounds to good to be true.

Posted by dino43_99 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 7:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I was looking on Minnesota Works Job Bank for west central MN. and noticed that out of 50 jobs posted Fergus had 4 and Alexandria had about 20. I wonder why????

Posted by StayNStrong (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 9:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I can not believe this was the outcome of something that could have been really great for this town. Something a lot of people did support, yet the council's overall decision to not let the production of this move forward. This makes me yet again frustrated with the way this city is moving forward - oh wait, it's not. This could have been such a great thing for the community and we could have still had the school here, too... if that will even happen. Thank you Greg and Tim for sticking up for what you believed in. We need more people like you on board. I'll remember that next time around.

Posted by cooking12 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 9:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow.. what a shame. Sounds like the next election will be interesting. People don't appear to be too happy with the council's decision. Nor do they appear to trust the true reasons for turning down an obvious win-win project. Embarassing actually. Fergus Falls residents need to take action and exercise their voting power to make real change in this community. You just lost some big bucks! Apparently for no good reason. Truly I can't see the justification here. Perhaps the council would like to write up the pros and cons on a simple 1 page document that would allow them to save face... and their seats.

Posted by bohica15 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 9:25 a.m.

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Posted by timetotalk (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

How in the world could a horror movie bring a whole entire town down? Cast a bad light on our All American City? I would think that Fergus would be inviting the publicity. There are many fans of the horror genre that would pay to do a walk through the building where their new favorite movie was filmed, etc.
It reminds me of the movie "Fargo". The film was not filmed in Fargo and really had nothing to do with Fargo. However, when I lived there and had to make a business call to someone from out of state, they sure knew the name "Fargo". I would hear "Ya, sure you betcha" about 30 times a day. Did I take offense? No. It was actually kind of funny the first 150 times.
My point being that Fargo is a household name now because of the movie. Fergus would not be hurt.
As far as the Chinese coming in for their school? hmmm.. I haven't really heard a whole lot about any finalization of that happening. Especially when it comes to them dictating what we, as a community, are allowed to do and not do.

Posted by ajohnsonx (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Fergus would not be stated in the movie....they just needed a building to do the filiming, so no, it would not bring attention to fergus for a non-blockbuster indie film, which is why it doesnt make sense to reject the idea. VOTE COOPER

Posted by WallLakeWhiggaPosse85 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh, you silly crackers. So I just got back from a weekend trip to Chicago and my hotel was only two blocks from the old post office downtown where they filmed some scenes from "Dark Knight, including the bank robbery at the beginning.

Strangely, I had no problem using the ATM nearby, even though I knew at any moment a gang of murderous thugs led by a psychopathic clown might burst inside and steal my hard-earned money.

And why did I have no problem with this? Because "Dark Knight" is a movie and the Joker is a fictional character, and I can tell the difference between a story and reality.

Apparently the FF City Council cannot. I think the sentiments from the MN FIlm Board put it best: "Honestly, I've never seen this in any community."

Only in Fergus Falls. This made the Strib, btw, so now the entire Upper Midwest knows you're all a bunch of dumb hicks.

Posted by Mel (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I can't beleive it, they voted it down again. I still suspect that they don't want any publicity to the Kirkbride because it would make it harder to get rid of.

Posted by samkiefer (Sam Kiefer) on August 19, 2008 at 10:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

wow... i've never seen my statements misconstrued like that olson736... and I have no affiliation with PEG access. it just seems like a whole lot of confusion all around. The movie WILL bring any PERCEIVED negative light no matter what, and we're still going to be stuck holding the bill on this building unless Anderson and Co. come through with this business college. Kaufman stated repeatedly that the film will NOT portray the treatment center in a negative light and even offered to sign an anonymity contract to protect the interests of fergus falls and the CDG. My point was any perceived negativity is going to happen regardless of whether they film here or anywhere else, and I would have liked to see us at least take the money while it was on the table. and positively perham is right. the actual history speaks volumes.

If any parent was on the fence to the point where a low budget movie that will likely have a hard time getting distributed out of state can make their decision for them... Then they would already have been dissuaded by the ACTUAL history of the RTC. I'd rather know my dorm room had a girl in ghost makeup walking through, than know the little I know about what actually happened there.

Posted by AnoMNous (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have a home in Fergus and work in the cities. This is actually getting some press down here, almost all of it negative.

Posted by PunkinPie (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

...Yeaaa.. that's neat. Who in the heck would turn down a school because a movie was filmed there? If anything I think it would have boosted the appeal of the college. Fortunately for me, I don't want another college here :-) I had lived in Alexandria long enough to know that college towns SUCK. I like my friendly old people.

Posted by votedem (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:24 a.m.

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Posted by starfish (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:34 a.m.

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Posted by Brandon (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm in agreement with Starfish _and_ watermelon.

Posted by hometown (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ihave said for years that the powers that be have run out every opportunity that has come to Fergus Falls. Thanks for proving me right once again. Fergus will never have economic prosparity without a willingness and a plan to grow. Also "I'm not in a position to say their wrong" Mr. Schierer that is a cop out. Do you agree with them or not? I know that you are running for Mayor and I really like you and I would vote for you if I lived there but please don't be flip flopper. Fergus is in dire need of some real leadership and someone who is willing to move forward with fresh idea's. I know your a man capable of this so be that man and lead the way!

Posted by KATY (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:56 a.m.

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Posted by Generally_Misunderstood (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The tension in the Council chambers last night was palpable beyond measure. I can't believe how the old guard Council members pander to the ego of Mr. Anderson of the CDG. Thank you to Jensen and Stumbo for at least acknowledging that the the film and hypothetically possible campus are not mutually exclusive and that there has to be a way for them both to work. Mr. Schierer says "I'm not in a position to say their wrong" in regards to Excuse me? You're a Council member, if you don't have the power, then who the hell does sir? That statement right there lost any respect and my vote in November for Ben Schierer. I had such high hopes. Our elected officials first and foremost job is to ask the right questions and demand answers. Not just take what is presented to them as Gospel. Mr. Schierer failed at this miserably with his response.

Mr. Anderson's fear mongering of "losing just 1 student" because of an indie film is just beyond ridiculous. His "families will Google Fergus Falls" and find this movie and second guess their child attending the facility in the first place is asinine. If a Google search stirs someone away from attending this school, then is this the type of scholastic giant we want attending this school in the first place? With that kind of logic they probably think Wikipedia is an 100% accurate source for information .

Mr. Anderson refused to even give a timeline to when a contract will be finalized, other then saying that "I'm your only hope" whilst chuckling under his breath. Or at least when the "non-binding" letter of intent will be signed. And this letter of intent is called "non-binding" directly from the CDG website. Is the Council even sure that this individual and his 2 potential investors even have the capital to put their share together to make this campus move forward? Mr. Shelstad said he "would take you (Mr. Anderson) at your word." Since when are business decisions that will drastically affect tax payers allowed to be based on a man's word? Does the council have any legal recourse if this CDG group pulls out or fails to have an agreement in place by the Dec. 31 deadline? If no contract exists, where are we left standing? Where is the transparency to ensure we the taxpayers aren't blind sided. Will there be enough time if this fails to meet the deadline? 16 months is a long time to not even have a "non-binding" letter of intent formalized and signed by interested parties. Last time I checked, non-binding meant just that. If the powers that be connected to this project can't get this simple non-binding letter signed, what makes anyone think they have the capacity to get the larger deal assembled?

How much pandering will the taxpayers of Fergus Falls have to do to Mr. Anderson and the CDG before we have a solidified plan in place? Will the City be granting huge tax breaks to the CDG that in fact renders the potential income via property taxes generated null and void for a period of years?

Posted by Gassy (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I can see why they wouldn't want potential college students knowing that a horror movie was filmed here. I mean the FFCC is just a fantastic learning institution. Gimme a break, most kids that go there never wind up here anyway because they get real jobs and move away to be able to realize there is life after FF. The Chinese aren't the calvary to save the town from rotting, but neither was this movie. Regardless, the council dropped the ball and now will need to find funds to tear it down. Maybe we should elect the kid with the lemonade stand that paid his mom's bills to the city council? At least he is business savvy!

Posted by gumball (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey, I think I saw Fergus Falls listed in the Obituaries. It had a robust life for most of it's life. But in it's later years it suffered from lack of purpose,direction, and caring for the greater good of people. It still looked pretty towards the end, yet so hollow inside. R.I.P.

Posted by whostruth (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ummm... This Chinese college ,was is not first to become a Biolagical chemicale school at first and now it is a buissness school???? that really ... scares me , glad my dogs lived through the dog food poisening, and the kids with the lead toys, they really do still shoot the mentally ill in the back of the head, not minnesotans , not yet anyway lol. and ohhh.. ya the past horrar of that RTC {and any of them} is really nasty and true, a movie on that would be box office

Posted by Josephine (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I just can't believe how stupid this City Council of ours is. Except for Jensen and Stumbo, you should all be ashamed of your selves. You have done an excellent job of making Fergus Falls a laughing stock. How your employees can keep their heads up is beyond me. It's embarassing!!!

Posted by ajohnsonx (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Don' worry watermelon, Jamie Cooper has zero chance of being elected because the group he is hoping to reach doesnt even vote

Posted by ajohnsonx (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

dont worry watermelon, Jamie Cooper has a zero % chance of being elected because the group he is targeting and "relating to" doesnt even vote.

Posted by theweasel (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Fergus Falls is a dead town that will never amount to more than a red neck, hayseed, backwater for stagnant hicks. I made a mistake moving here three years ago by listening to my know nothing relatives. With my job I can live just about anywhere I want and you can bet that the very minute the house resale market improves I will move out. I’ll probably lose money anyway, any investment in Fergus Falls is most likely doomed to failure. Minimum wages, minimum opportunity, minimum growth, the place should be named Minimum Falls.

Posted by TKay (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thank you to Mr. Jensen and Mr. Stumbo for representing the community and trying to gain some business for our community. Continue your voices for the people of Fergus Falls.

Hope the Campus Development Group will provide the lost monies to the city and local businesses that was lost here if their big plans do not come to fruition.

Posted by PunkinPie (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I wonder why some of the people here who are SO pissed off about this don't run for city council so they CAN be the ones making the decisions?

Posted by watermelon (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You people need to get out more often. I still have yet to have anyone explain to me how this benefits the city of Fergus Falls, other than rent for a month. Sure, it wouldn't hurt the city any to have the film shot at the RTC, but it also isn't going to benefit the city in the long run. Has anyone even seen Dav Kaufman's first film? It's a low budget piece of crap by a producer out of the twin cities. I'm surprised at all the comments by all the younger residents calling this a dead hayseed backwater etc etc for rejecting this endeavor, while they probably wouldn't lift a finger and take part in any other civic duty or volunteer their time to do good in this community. Instead, everyone is for doing a month long shoot of a crappy slasher flick that will be forgotten in two months. It's as if Kaufman is "threatening" the city with what could have been if only they had made the right decision and let them film in FF. SO WHAT. I think all the previous logic isn't quite steeped in reality. NOT A MULTI MILLION DOLLAR PRODUCTION-NO ONE WILL EVER SEE IT-WILL NOT LEAD TO ANYTHING GREATER-WILL NOT PUT FERGUS FALLS ON THE MAP-WILL NOT PROVIDE JOBS IN FERGUS FALLS-WILL NOT PROVIDE EXTRA GROWTH.
And furthermore, you people have got to be smoking crack if you would ever consider putting someone like Jamie Cooper on your city council. Good god. As of a few days ago, the guy had a homemade music video entitled "kill everyone" which conveniently disappeared. It's as if this comment board is inhabited by a bunch of knuckle-draggers who barely finished high school by the seat of their pants.

thank you
watermelon

Posted by JAnderson (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Easier to think of excuses "why not" to do something than "to actually" do something. Again, another fine example of Fergus getting skiddish and making up excuses. I've said it before...Fergus is full of excuses. HA HA!!!

Posted by ottergrad (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Here is the comments from the areas finest minds.

Anybody trying to start a long term business does not want to overcome anything negative. It makes perfect sense that the development group chooses to not have a horror movie filmed in the RTC building right before they start a college.

This blog has been reduced to name calling and false statements. I think the development group stated quite clearly last evening that this has nothing to do with the Chinese and the Chinese had no input in their decision. So why is everybody trying to create a China versus us argument when it has nothing to do with China.

Posted by timetotalk (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Has anyone looked at the Star Tribune and read the comments regarding this subject? Just thought I'd share. It is an interesting read.

Posted by wwjdt (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Kudos to Stumbo and Jensen for wanting the movie deal.
Sure hope the Chinese school deal doesn't fall apart now...

Posted by Generally_Misunderstood (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:08 p.m.

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Posted by username (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

timetotalk: Just read the forums on this subject over at the Tribune. Yeah, they all think our council members are a bunch of tools over there also.

Posted by chipper072 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mr. Username(what at name) couldn't you do any better? You sound like a user or a loser.

Posted by chipper072 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mr Username, (what a name) couldn't you do any better? You are probably a user or a loser.

Posted by j_stan_jr (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well I am one of the people that Jamie is targeting, and I vote! I am also the foreman of a large FERGUS BASED buisness and don't know why everybody is complaining, Don't we all just wnat what best for the community? I have worked in this town for over 20 years, i put my tax dollars into this town and i put my children in the school system, thoose of you that think we OK just the way ae are are saddly mistaken, The econimics of our small town are dwindling, and the only thing to bring us back to health is a jump start from someone who is not a politican! this time we need a person from this town without a silver spoon in his mouth, we need someone who has had to see the down side and how it affects a person, we need someone with a HUGE heart to show carring and compassion for everyone, not just thoose who "feel" they deserve it.(anyone ever met his son? if he can raise a boy to be that great what can he do for US?) I speak for hundreds of peole who belive you complainers are just that; complainers! We will have someone new in our city council this year and he will be the right man for the job! GO JAMIE COOPER WE ALL SUPPORT YOU> and don't worry what theese guys say, they all don't have jobs or vote either. your safe!

Posted by timetotalk (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

See? They were worried about a movie giving us a bad rap. hmmm....

Posted by chipper072 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Shame on you Daily Journal for allowing some of these posted remarks.

Posted by username (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:30 p.m.

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Posted by chipper072 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mr username, you are a bad example of anything good to come out of Fergus Falls. You should find something better to do with your time than write nasty comments. I sure hope you do not run for election.

Posted by fergusfallsmom (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with you username... I was disappointed with Mr. Schierer... it looked like his hands were tied up tight.

I get that they were looking at the long term rather than the here and now, but still. too bad... disappointing!

Posted by ferguslifer (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 12:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I knew this would never come to be.. Stupid People do make stupid decisions. mr Stumbo is correct in his thinking. These are two different projects.. But FF cant multi-task. Never could, never will. I also call recall decades ago, of business opportunity that could have made this community better. We really have come along ways.......NOT! Hey Dj. dont shut down this bullentin.

Posted by mgdbottled (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 1:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Fergus Falls is an old folks home. From city limit to city limit with a big ole hospital right in the middle of town. How convenient. People grow up in Fergus Falls and move away and then come back when they get to be seventy years old. It's a quiet little town where an ole fart can cross the street with the aid of a walker and not get runover. In about ten years, I just may retire back to Fergus Falls where I'm sure I'll be able to cash my SS check and pick up all the 70 year old chicks I want and have a great ole time playing bridge and what not. The town never changes. Change is not wanted.

Posted by grandma66 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 1:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There can't be any more negative light put on this community than already is. Jesse Ventura hosted a show called Haunted Minnesota, and there are areas around the metro area and the mansion in Duluth that are tourist sites and make money in the tourist business. I guess the city doesn't really want new people or business in our town, and to say otherwise is just lip service, as I have yet to see them do anything to change that. So what do we need improvements in schools and anything else if we aren't going to do anything to bring the people here? The "Welcome to Fergus Falls" alone isn't gonna do it guys!!!!

Posted by so_and_so (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with Jeepman, why did the council turn down a concrete offer (the film) for something that's not even agreed upon yet (the college)!? Have we received any money from the Chinese yet? Has anything been signed yet? As far as I've heard nothing is agreed yet, just still in discussion!
While preparing for the Olympics, China banned movies with “wronged spirits and violent ghosts, monsters, demons, and other inhuman portrayals, strange and supernatural storytelling for the sole purpose of seeking terror and horror”. “Apparently they are worried about the negative influence that horror movies might have on the general public, and they aim to protect adolescents’ psychological health”. So did this have anything to do with their decision? And as for the comment that they would never allow movies of this sort to be filmed at their colleges, until they buy it it's not theirs! Hmm and they say the Chinese had no input in their decision and it wasn’t for China.

What would their reaction be if a documentary film-maker came to town, let’s say the History or Discovery channels, and said they wanted to make a documentary on the history of the State Hospital? Would that be better? It's the same thing just a different format! You can't deny history, you should embrace it and encourage education of it. The Chinese students will be interacting with the residents of this town, are you going to try to keep the horrible things that happened at their new college a secret and swear us all to silence? You're town has a beautifully constructed State Hospital that did tons of experiments and horrible things, but that was normal of any hospital back in those days. Use that to your advantage - not every town has one of these.

There seem to be TONS of questions and we’re getting NO ANSWERS about this college. It seems they want people to come here then leave again. Why not instead make a business college or a University for the residents of our area (and will attract students from all over the country) who will attend school here, likely find a job here, live and settle here, put their kids in our schools - their money will stay here! Oh but then you would need the JOBS to back that up. How will all these Chinese students pay their tuition, room, board, medical, and dental? Where will they be working and living? How will the money we receive from the Chinese be used? How much will FF receive from China for the RTC? Will we as tax-paying residents be given a chance to vote on what to do with the money? I feel like FF is leaping before they think: all the affects and ramifications of hosting a fully international college in a very low diversity, small town with very limited resources. Has FF officials worked closely with other towns that have international colleges to know what to expect, how to plan, what is needed? And if the college doesn’t go through then we just missed out on a very good opportunity with the movie.

Continued on next posting...

Posted by chipper072 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 1:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh Mr Kiefer, you have no idea what you are talking about. You have alot of growing up to do and maybe you should go to college and get a good job.

Posted by JL (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Timetotalk- I couldn't agree more...As I read these comments I thought to myself, well they didn't want the town to have a bad rap, well look at us now not only are we being bad mouthed in the cities, Fargo, Moorehead, Alex, and I am sure many more, the people of this town are bad mouthing this town as well, way to go city council except the two that actually voiced on the opinion of the people.

Posted by so_and_so (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 1:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Continued from my other posting…
Do you honestly think the handful of higher paying businesses & the tons of minimum-wage-dime-a-dozen jobs here are sufficient to form a thriving city and community? Go into any of the tons of minimum wage stores and restaurants in FF, count how many adults you see working in them? Doesn't that tell you something is wrong? FF could be another St. Cloud easily. Prime I-94 location. Our younger citizens would have to move somewhere else for a Bachelor's Degree, so then why would they move back? Especially when there are no jobs?

What does Fergus Falls have to offer those of us who won't just settle for never going to college and working a low paying job the rest of our lives? Those of us who want good paying careers in which that money would filter back into the town? Not everyone in this town is a nurse or a production worker!! You need some corporate headquarters here for those like me.
I sent one of your newspapers to my family (one on the east coast, one on the west coast, and one in a very large Midwest metro area) the "help wanted" section of that paper consisted of 5 jobs in Fergus Falls - for a town of about 13,500 - not including the surrounding area! One was a part time minimum wage cashier, 2 were labor jobs, and 2 were for nurses. Does that not scream to you that there is a problem in your town?? I'm not a nurse, I can't do labor, and a part time minimum wage job won't pay my bills or support my family. One job I applied for the hiring gal told me she received about 35 resumes for that one position! To give you an idea, Alexandria has a 2,000 less people than FF but has much more industry and job opportunities, and they have been awarded with School of Excellence awards. What’s the difference? Fergus is focusing on the older generation of our town and is afraid of change; Alexandria is focusing on growing their town, the young professionals and young families.
Coming from living in many other places I will never understand the logic of the council in Fergus Falls. I can't wait to move out of here and to a town that has logic again, a town that actually wants growth, financial success and happy residents. And it's not just me, just look at all the other 18-40 year olds moving away from here. There are no jobs & your schools suck. You are driving away opportunities for this city, but not only that, you are driving away young adults and families. I'm just stating the facts, just look at the moving in/out numbers and statistics. Just take a drive through your town... count how many businesses have closed. Count how many homes are vacant, foreclosed, or for sale.

As quoted: “I knew the answer was ‘no’ coming up here,” Kaufman said following the council’s 6-2 decision against the film. “They had their shot...there’s no incentive for us to look at this community any more.” But that doesn't just go for the movie, there's no incentive for families or large businesses to look at this community either.

Posted by JL (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 2:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

and additionally has there been anything said about the school situation at the RTC, the way I understood it was that they came to just check out the location and that nothing was signed or even agreed on whether the college thing was even going to happen it was just a thought! Maybe I missed something?

Posted by its_sunny_here (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 2:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree JL about the people in Fergus Falls badmouthing their own town....but doesen't that seem like you(the ppl of Fergus Falls) are kickin yourselves in the butt. I know that people do not agree with the city's decision, myself included, but don't you think that keeping on this rant of how bad our town is will just keep doing more damage. It makes our town look like a bunch of children who didn't like our parents decision...why not just say, you know what, I don't agree, but the decision is made and what is the next step then to bring in the other option (Chinese)....Just a thought.

Posted by MomOf2 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 2:39 p.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by metasonics (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 2:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

lets just consider for a moment that the Chinese are not coming!
after nearly 2 years, we have no agreements and nothing on paper.
our community must move forward!
How long is long enough?
I propose we move forward with my proposal.
renovate the RTC to house the ottertail county historical museum, move the public library to the RTC and allow the needed expansion they want, the old museum could be sold for commercial space, the old library could become the new police station we keep hearing we need.

the RTC does have a gristly history, but there are also positive stories too.
we should preserve this history!
there are too many lessons here that were paid for in blood.
we should respect the 3000+ lost souls in the RTC graveyard, and ensure those graves will be undisturbed.

I agree that losing the movie offer was a mistake, I don't see any proof of this Chinese college happening.
WE cannot just wait around forever, life must move forward.

I have read that some feel our community problems stem from a generational gap.
I don't believe that!
the generation gap hype is just another way, to keep our community from getting together and finding solutions!
I know many seniors and many young people as well.

our problems stem from a division of the wealthy excluding the poor.

people of all ages wanted this film, people of all ages want this city to grow.
it is not fair to single out any age group.
the problems this city face transcend age.
I agree we need new leadership ,and that is why I am offering to perform the needed changes myself.
I look forward to working with the likes of Tim Jensen and Greg Stumbo, if I should be fortunate enough to have the opportunity!
please do not allow our community to be divided because of age!
that is exactly what those who support foreign interests want and need!

thank you
Jamie Cooper

Posted by Mel (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 2:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

One nice thing about this, was the amount of unintended publicity which seems to be more than would have happened if they had OKed the movie. Way to go!!
Remember the Pholps mill? I am glad that some ONE managed to save it. Time to save the Kirkbride.!!!

Posted by Mel (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 2:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Quote "you know what, I don't agree, but the decision is made and what is the next step then to bring in the other option (Chinese)"
It is hard to not say something when the decision was so stupid and bullheaded.
It is time for people to get on board and save the RTC before the so called leaders destroy it.

Posted by so_and_so (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 3:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

j_stan_jr: "I speak for hundreds of peole who belive you complainers are just that; complainers!"

So who are these "hundreds" of people you are speaking for and why can't they speak for themselves? Are any of them city officials? What are their demographics (age, economical status?) We are tax payers here, and we solcit yours, and other businesses here. So what's your real name or what is your business so we lowly complainers can be sure never to solicit your business again? We have the legal right to freedom of speech and press and we have the legal right to stand up and speak when we don't agree with things. If you would rather be a blind man who goes along with whatever people tell you to, that's fine. But this is our town too and we have every right to argue town decisions. Gee, what would happen to your "big business" and the town as a whole if all of us "complainers" were to team together and leave?

Posted by JL (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 3:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

very well said Its-sunny-here. I was just pointing out that my understanding of the city council was to voice the opinion of THE PEOPLE, according to the comments the people wanted this opportunity. All is said and done and hopefully the town of Fergus Falls is able to move on.

Posted by tsy86h (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey stanjr.
yeah cooper is a great choice to vote for. He even admitted that he will file for disability if he is not elected. Then the tax payers can pay his bills anyhow.
By the way, I do have a job and I do vote!

"instead of earning a paycheck and answering to members of my community, I will be forced onto disability benefits which pay about the same anyway.
the only losers if I am not elected, will be the taxpayers.
either you can pay me to perform a service for you and answer to you, or you can pay me to sit around and criticize whoever is elected."

http://www.fergusforum.com/forum/thread-...

Posted by Timray18 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 3:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This ranks right up there with when the Enlighted Ones turned down a 3M plant!!!

Posted by its_sunny_here (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 3:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

JL--I couldn't agree more.

Posted by samkiefer (Sam Kiefer) on August 19, 2008 at 3:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

chipper072, at 23 years old I don't deny that I have a lot of growing up to do, but a simple look at your posting history shows that you are not a great example of how an adult should act. making personal attacks does not bring much to your arguments against this film. So far, in your eight post two week history on the Daily Journal comment boards you have tried to pick on six people and tried to get all comments removed from the site twice, and only on stories pertaining to the RTC film project by Kaufman. really makes me question your motives... but by all means stick to personal attacks and questioning whether a free and open discourse on the subject is good for the (your?) CDG project.

Posted by so_and_so (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 3:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Timray....I totally agree! So proud of them for realizing that a huge corporation like 3M would bring nothing but tons of jobs, high pay, good benefits, and job security to this town. Whew, dodged a bullet there! (Please note the SARCASM!)

Posted by awelgraven (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 3:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good job Fergus Falls. Not only to do all you can to keep local dollars far away from Fergus, but now you've branched out into keeping non-local dollars out of Fergus too!! Yay!

On a completely unrelated note, what is wrong with this town?

Posted by Kurtisishere (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 3:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

請停止你的一周中間和這個星期購物新聞的支持因為里克·安徒生擁有他們和他不支持有在 Fergus 方面被拍攝的一部電影的你的決定落下

Posted by tippy98c (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 3:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

hahahahaha, why am I not surprised they said no?
That WOULD have been kind of neat to see.
But thats it...I'm flyin the white flag. Level the RTC, poo on the council and triple poo on the "friends" of the Kirkbride. With friends like that who needs enemys.

Posted by tippy98c (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 3:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm fairly well convinced the most intelligient people in this commuinty once lived at the RTC and have long since left the place.

Posted by for_reals (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 3:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Don't tourists travel to the "Overlook Hotel" to stay where the King's "The Shining" was filmed??

Posted by spud (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 4:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Amen Jamie. In a day when most cities are doing everything to bring companies and money to town, good old Fungus Falls lives in the past of small thinking. Oh, did I mention I grew up just south of there. People move away when there is nothing to stay around for. The 15 seconds of fame burned quickly and was wasted...............

Posted by spud (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 4:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Let's look at this objectively.........we are not China, they are the ones stealing our jobs, making health risky products and trying to sneak them here. Next time your taxes go up, remember the money that you chased away. And yes, it's only a movie. Reality tends to come from a different part of the brain. My main concerns when traveling, vacationing, or sending my kids to college was," did something scarey happen here, once, at band camp?"

Posted by theweasel (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 4:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The moment is gone.

Posted by LoisMustDie (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 5:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Man, am I glad I moved out of Fergus! Here's the real story, people - Twins and White Sox one game apart in the Division race! And, Jamie Cooper, I wish you good health, whether I agree with you or not.

Posted by JAnderson (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 5:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

HA! HA! Fergus is the laughing stock of the state! Turning down guaranteed money!!!

Posted by JL (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 5:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

does anyone else find it funny that these comments continue to bad mouth the people of Fergus Falls when it was indeed the six people on the council board that made the decision, not the people of Fergus Falls? Just an observation.

Posted by metasonics (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 5:10 p.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by Granny (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 5:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Who cares if the Chinese people come or not was any of this put to the vote of the people or do we have 6 80 years old trying to make decisions for this perfect town.
Horror movies I don't watch them but they offerred the town ten thousand dollars China offerred us what, oh ya they own the US anyway. This town just aggrivating me lets get some young blood running this city and let it move forward.

Posted by Josephine (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 5:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

if they can read-i hope the mayor and the council read all these comments

Posted by E_85 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 5:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am guessing those who oppose the movie in this forum and say it would never amount to anything, do not watch movies to begin with. The horror genre is becoming huge, whether it is low budget or big budget. Many of them straight to dvd, which then do very well. Also there are many indie film festivals that cater to these types of low budget films, where a major film company might pick it up and re-do it with bigger dollars. So I find it very ignorant to just assume this film would have done nothing, to my knowledge you are not fortune tellers. Now Fergus has sent a messege possibly to many companys looking to move here in the future, that it is not worth the risk. So, what does Fergus have to look forward to now? Another retirement home being built, after all that is basically the only construction in town.

Posted by brighteyes (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 5:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

what a joke. im speechless when it comes to this issue. How could a movie being filmed here be ANYTHING but positive?! It appears that Fergus is on a crash course with its own demise. Which started when the 3M project was squashed.

"Fergus is focusing on the older generation of our town and is afraid of change; Alexandria is focusing on growing their town, the young professionals and young families."

I couldn't agree more. I'd be willing to bet that if a senior citizens home was proposed, it would be approved so fast it would make our heads spin. Just a thought.

Posted by LoisMustDie (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 6:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Man, am I glad I moved out of Fergus! Here's the real story, people - Twins and White Sox one game apart in the Division race! And, Jamie Cooper, I wish you good health, whether I agree with you or not.

Posted by tippy98c (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 6:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This town is a horror movie!!!

Posted by walleyeslayer (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 7:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There's a reason why Fergus Falls school enrollment keeps declining. There's a reason why the population hasn't grown in 30 years. There's a reason why the median wage is low in this town. The community keeps voting the same type of people with the same goals and the same character to make these decisions. The people of Fergus Falls can now see from this vote who on the city council wants Fergus Falls to change and progress and who wants it to stay a dying community. It's your vote that counts, make the change that gets Fergus Falls back on the map as a growing community. One other note the Blair Witch Project was a low budget horror film. Can't imagine the tourists that have visited that site.

Posted by pilsnerurquel (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 7:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

WHO IS VOTING FOR THESE CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS???????? Thank you Stumbo and Jensen for being the voice of reason and voting in favor of allowing the filming here. Everyone else on the council should be impeached. Fergus is the laughing stock of Minnesota right now!

Posted by Nicky (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 8:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

They are building another retirement home right behind Minnesota Motors.

Posted by newfergite (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 8:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I may be out of line here...as a very new resident of this oh so pleasant place...but I do question the motivations and sensibilities of those who rejected this opportunity.

To think a movie location defines an area ad infinitum is rather provincial in a world wide web age. As an aside, I just read on msnbc or cnn..ah..msnbc re: the 50's blockbuster The Blob http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26162563/
and that old time movie location continues to bring in tourism and revenues 50 yrs later!

I think it quaint to want to keep things the way they were, I think it noble to wish to preserve heritage and a certain way of life; however, I think it shortsighted and woefully ignorant to think that burying one's head in the sand will somehow preserve and protect those very values when the whole wide world is knocking at your door.

This movie opportunity may or may not have been a long term shot in the arm to Fergus Falls but it definitely would have afforded some significant opportunities to businesses and individuals in the here and now.

I think it a pity that now, no one will be afforded the chance to avail themselves of those oportunities.

Posted by votedem (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 8:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Jamie, I've lived here for 7 years and have seen ZERO change. It's extremely frustrating to watch Alexandria boom while we spin our wheels. Sorry, just the reality of the situation.

Posted by votedem (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 8:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

As soon as the housing market comes back I'll be selling my home and moving to Alexandria or Fargo. Fergus Falls is a joke.

Posted by fergusmnmom (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 9:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You know votedem we've discussed the same thing. Alexandria is really booming with new strip malls and stores popping up all over the place. I love Fergus, buts its kind of sad when you have to drive 40 miles to a smaller town just to be able to go to Super WalMart and a mall that actually has stores in it.

Posted by metasonics (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 9:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

votedem, fergusmnmom, please don't give up just yet, If this city could be carved out of untamed land in the first place, We can certainly turn this city around!
Vote for change and you will get it!
Jamie Cooper

Posted by LoisMustDie (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 9:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

http://www.buzz.mn/?q=node/5105

Posted by ckint1975 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 9:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

hey just think we will have a new senior home behind MN motors and they have a sign for a new across the road from the old water tower. I have lived in many towns and this has got to be the worst i have seen. The sad thing is i was born here and thats why i came back here. We need to make a change in the city. I also lost some respect for ben with this vote.I don't know if you are the answer JAMIE but your worth a try, yes i do know you and have known you since we were in school. One last thing that i say about Jamie is that he has changed since school alot, well everything but his music. good luck

PEACE OUT

Posted by positivelyperham (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ok well is seems as this is as good as any of a place and time to get organized for the upcoming vote. so who is up for re-election and who is running against them. basically the message should be vote for change, vote for anyone but the incumbant. actually this theory works on all levels of government. if you take a look at the condition of our economy, way of life and our status and security in the world i would have to say that ALL of our incumbant officials should be voted out. its obvious this group in there now, whether they are democrat or republican cant get the job done. so lets start the movement, vote for change any and all. so who is on the hot seat in fergus??? lets send em fishin.

Posted by ferguslifer (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 9:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

AS A FF life long resident... here is the bottom line... FERGUS FALLS WAS A RETIREMENT TOWN 30 YEARS AGO... High School students graduated and moved away back then, there was nothing here for them, some have come back.. The cycle has NOT Changed! A retirement town is a quiet place to raise a family, but go work 40-70 miles away. But gas then was MUCH LESS. Fargo is a College city. College kids need jobs for getting money for school bills and partying Alexandria is a city around a chain of multiple lakes. People have gone there to live,and the jobs came too. Have you seen all the big houses being built there?? ALL OVER THE PLACE?? WHAT DOES A REITEMENT TOWN NEED??? (fergus falls) NOTHING, but a place to house the elderly. Which is here.
THE CITY COUNCIL has done well to keep things the way they have been done... Next election... get out and vote!! I will....

Posted by FergusFamily (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Just remember who voted NO - two people who are running for Mayor (Schierer and Leland) - do you want them in leadership positions? And one for County Commissioner. If we vote these people into continued leadership roles, our community will continue to hover at mediocrity - at best. I hope Mr. Stumbo wins his 10A seat for State Representative. He will serve us well (but we'll miss him in City Government).

Posted by KATY (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

FergusFamily, I couldn't have said it better. There most definetly will be change in this town after this historic idiocy. But don't forget, Anderson is the monster behind all this. The city should be prepared to sue him and the enitre CDG if their deal fails. We must band together as a community to demand that this happens. He must be held accountable for this. Also, Fergus is not just the laughing stock of Minnesota. This was in newspapers in NY, NJ, SC just to name a few. It's been on radio stations everywhere and is all over the web. Thanks to Anderson and his puppets on the city council, we are the laughing stock of the entire country right now. How is that less damaging than a work of fiction?

Posted by walleyeslayer (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

30 years ago the population of Fergus was 12,000, and the graduating class was around 300. Now the population is 13,000 and the graduating class is 150. People something has to change!

Posted by grandma66 (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 10:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This is what "greater Minnesotans" think of our community thanks to those who shot down an opportunity

http://www.startribune.com/local/2712639...

Posted by theweasel (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzR3-Rw9Q...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Sofob-uT...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2gZtyv4m...

For your listening and viewing enjoyment.

Posted by brunzee (anonymous) on August 19, 2008 at 11:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

E_85 is right about the viability of the "scary movie" genre. Even years ago, there were worse things than being associated with a suspense thriller like The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Christine. Children of the Corn. The Shining. Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Cujo. Interview with a Vampire. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, etc. or, God forbid, Phantom of the Opera.
On a serious note, vague suggestions about student fears are (or should be) non-issues. After all, thousands of local students heard and told "ghost stories" about the old hospital, secret tunnels, etc. BUT also had the maturity to live learn work and play there. The hospital ran a large nursing school. The Fergus Falls community college moved into the bottom floor after the old high school burned down. The CC ran a student "live-in" (dorm) program for years with help from the RTC staff, college teachers and student RAs. Ask around at any cafe here; most of us went there for soccer leagues, basketball teams, 4-H, boy scouts, service group projects, benefited from this unique place and were better people for it.
Sam Kiefer just tried to point out the obvious. The past is what it is. Whatever direction this takes, 125 years of stories don't just disappear (nor should they). ANY successful scenario for RTC development will pose huge challenges, not just for the CDG but for everyone. We need clear thinking and honest answers, not guesswork. With all due respect for the hard work of Rick Anderson, there are hundreds of former workers, residents, and volunteers who could shoot Rick's words back at him: "We are your only hope; without us, they would have torn the place down already." Ouch. Please BUILD bridges to concerned citizens, don't burn them!
Finally, did someone from the city step up to maintain some goodwill with Dav Kaufman and the Minnesota Film and TV Board. They invested time, energy and money because they were invited. And they are not professional "no names." Kaufman runs a publishing company with many good books in print. He produces music and culture events. His first movie won the Gold Remi Award at the international film festival in Houston last year which gave him lots of contacts (Houston Film states with confidence, "our winners today are the Stephen Spielbergs of tomorrow -- meet them before they are famous.") Craig, the other guy at both council meetings, worked production on a slew of Disney movies, The Wedding Crasher, etc. And if nothing else, they are Minnesota taxpayers with a reasonable request, to rent a vacant building that has always belonged to the entire state of Minnesota. Its the least we can do.
Dear Dav, Craig, and Minnesota Film Board -- Sorry for the misunderstanding. Thanks for your time. We hope you will consider working with us in the future. Good luck with your project.

Posted by metasonics (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 12:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

theweasel, thanks for advertising music videos I've appeared in, I'm not sure what that has to do with our city council thumbing their noses at a movie offer?
buy anyway you forgot to include what most people consider my best video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4Aqq1-5J...

Jamie Cooper

Posted by buzzman55 (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 12:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)

That away to go city council. This is just what a dieing city needs, morons on the city council to pass a way to make a buck! No wonder this city's dieing with old farts on the city council who have no vision or interest for the common people and you wonder why people are leaving this dieing pit?

Posted by walleyeslayer (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 12:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Dying

Posted by ottergrad (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 1:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am sure the CDG group is pleased to see all the positive comments made. It appears that everybody is pleased that they are trying to create jobs, bring students who spend money in our community. Professors, support staff, administration, grounds keepers, electricians, contractors, kitchen staff. and all other support business that will benefit from the economic impact of this college.

This group has done nothing wrong, they are not evil as some think.
They have worked to redevelop the existing buildings and grounds into the most logical reuse of the campus.

When asked if they want a horror movie filmed in the future dormitories it is logical that they feel it is not a positive way to showcase the facility.

With the money that they are going to spend why would anybody take that risk?

Posted by Sumwun (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 1:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow...lotta strong opinions on this whole horror film/chinese invasion dilemna. Lotta whining too. Maybe if those of you who hate it so much should move to a town that is not afraid of change or progression like Alexandria or the F-M area. It will take more than just a spark to jumpstart this sleepy, heck...comatose little city of ours; more like a nuclear explosion. Even if such an opportunity would come along, or city leaders would probably find some way to scare it away. Even so, if you're not willing to wait for something big to come along, stop complaining and move away so all the sleepy, old fashioned, and stubborn population in this town can keep things they way they want them around here...exactly the way things have been since the 1950's.

Posted by metasonics (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 2:54 a.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by metasonics (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 2:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

who says a college is the most logical use for a structure whose grounds also house a 3000+ body graveyard?

I propose hat the RTC is best suited for the ottertail county museum and historical society, and to provide our Public library the needed expansion.
we could offer a spacious city park in the front, while also solving the concerns for a new police station by having the police relocate to the building now home to our public library.
this is an appropriate solution, and as the RTC is a historic landmark, I also feel this would be a more reasonable solution!

thank you
Jamie Cooper

Posted by ffrogg (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 4:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

cooper, i think the city is looking for a use of that property that will bring in tax dollars, lots of it! what you are proposing will only spend tax money, lots of it. it would be a quagmire. that is why they are looking for an outside source for this money. the city should have taken the ten grand for the movie. it would cover the city council's payroll for a month while they waste time deciding to demolish the beastly structure, before it is too late. lots of people are romancing the issue, while others are thinking in a classical direction. but like a dead albatross, it will never fly. sometimes pessimism is the best approach. no movie, no college, no tax dollars, well, hopefully not yours anyway. raze it! before it is too late.
http://www.activemind.com/Mysterious/Top...

Posted by metasonics (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 7:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ffrogg,
I don't have any numbers regarding the projects I suggested, but we need to keep in mind if the CDG deal falls through, we could still consider and explore ideas like I have suggested.
maybe we could at least save the main buildings.
the projects I mentioned are for ventures we are already spending on anyway, why not utilize what we've got available if at all possible?

remember the final statements about plan B.

Dan Edwards said,
"the state requires the city to have any abatement or demolition projects under contract by July 1, 2009, and infrastructure replacement projects under contract by Aug. 30, 2009. The city has four years after those dates to get the projects completed."

I don't want to see our city lose this landmark entirely and get stuck with a huge bill for it all in the end!

Mr. Anderson had better have something good to offer soon, or I think he owes us a movie!

thank you
Jamie Cooper

Posted by so_and_so (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 9:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Do you remember the restaurant scene in the movie "Fargo" when they were in MN? Well I worked at that restaurant... it's an Ember's in St. Louis Park, MN. Just that short scene in a blockbuster movie hit caused hundreds of people to come to that restaurant and ask "Where's the booth? Can we sit in THAT booth? Do you have any picture of that actors and actresses? Do you have any signatures we can see?" I'm not kidding you people. No where in that movie did it state where that restaurant was. But people are smart and able to figure it out. Imagine what an entire movie shot on location in Fergus Falls could have done for us. Again, even if they never mention that it's in Fergus Falls... people are smart and would be able to figure it out.

Do you remember the movie "Mall Rats"? It was a stupid movie, but it had Jay & Silent Bob, Shannon Doherty, Ben Affleck, it was filmed in Eden Prairie Center in Eden Prairie, MN. It drummed up so many tourists that wanted to see the mall, they added on to the mall, added tons more businesses, and re-did the mall to look very nice. I know because that's where I went to High School. Since then the town has exploded with businesses, new roads, houses, 2 new zip codes, etc. True the town was growing before, but that little bit of fame from a movie made it spiral much faster.

Just because the older city officials of this town don't think that the movie would have done anything for us, doesn't mean it's true. People would have found out that the RTC is in Fergus Falls, they would have been drawn to it, wanting to see it and tour it. This town missed out on a huge opportunity.

I know the RTC has a HUGE maintanence bill which this town can not afford. But I'm curious on what other options they've looked into. All that I've heard is the Chinese College and that's it. My dad (very strong position with a large company) down in the cities asked why doesn't Fergus Falls advertise the building all over the midwest... a large company may be interested in it.

Posted by so_and_so (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 9:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

From the Star Tribune:

Fergus Falls council nixes movie
Associated Press

Last update: August 19, 2008 - 8:02 AM

FERGUS FALLS, Minn. - The Fergus Falls City Council is turning thumbs down on allowing a movie to be filmed at a former state hospital.

A Minneapolis filmmaker wanted to use the Kirkbridge building of the Regional Treatment Center as the setting for a psychological thriller.

But the City Council rejected the request on a vote of 6-2.

Some people who want to establish a new college at the old treatment center were worried that the movie would give the place a bad reputation.

But movie director Dav Kaufman says there's no way the movie would have shown the facility or the city of Fergus Falls in a bad light.

Posted by so_and_so (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 9:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Some of you speak of not showing our town in a bad light... um, what kind of light would we be in if Jamie Cooper were elected to represent our town? Just because you agree with him on the movie doesn't mean he deserves to be representing our town on a political level. You can't vote for someone just based on one thing. What would future businesss who want to come to Fergus Falls think? No, I don't know him personally, but I think I've seen enough.

View his YouTube videos.

http://hk.youtube.com/watch?v=v2gZtyv4mA...
http://hk.youtube.com/watch?v=TzR3-Rw9Q9...
http://hk.youtube.com/watch?v=sKyTadoWC-...
http://hk.youtube.com/watch?v=4Sofob-uTc...
http://hk.youtube.com/watch?v=7usCTU0tx2...

And read a response he got from a gal on Star Tribune:
This is his PR skills??

"Fergus falls residents are outraged at city council
mn10klakes, is a part of the organization that shut down this movie offer. His organization is called the CDG, or Campus Development Group. the CDG organization is supposedly working to bring investors from Communist China to invest in a college of which nothing has been presented, his organization is still looking for estimates for remodeling the former state hospital. our city council was bullied by the spokesman of the CDG. "Richard Anderson"
the vast majority of residents in Fergus falls are in favor of Dav Kaufman's movie offer. the message board in our local newspaper (the daily journal) is ablaze with comments from Fergus falls residents who are angry over our city council snubbing their noses at Mr. Kaufman.
please don't let the decision of a handful of politicians who are about to be voted out of office, affect your opinions about Fergus falls. as a community we wanted this movie and hope the actions of a few will not dissuade others from coming to our community or be wary of approaching with future offers. after this election I may very well be one of the new council members, and I promise you, if elected, Fergus falls will be open for business!
Jamie Cooper"

posted by jamiecooper on Aug 19, 08 at 11:31 pm |
0 of 1 people liked this comment.

"Actually
Yes, my user name is "mn10klakes," but for everything else, Mr. Cooper, you are entirely wrong. I am in now way associated with CDG; and if I were, please don't refer to it as "his" organization, for I am a female. You might also be surprised to learn that I am in my mid-20s and living thousands and thousands of miles away from Fergus Falls. (Though I was born, raised, and graduated from FFSH.)
For everyone else - please let me introduce you to Mr. Jamie Cooper, candidate for Fergus Falls City Council Ward 1:
http://hk.youtube.com/watch?v=TzR3-Rw9Q9...

posted by mn10klakes on Aug 20, 08 at 0:38 am |

Posted by coffeewithlena (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 9:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

News flash!
Riches of untapped Mountain of Gold to be painted over and abandoned. Money is not needed in this town anyway. (hhhem - hhem)
In other news: Free coffee and doughnuts at Rockingchairworld.
But seriously though. The tourist dollars would boom if this "Gold Mine" was reconstructed into historic appearance. There could be a room where a short film could be viewed on the "unfortunate but true" occourances that happened at this and other State Hospitals of the time period. Hands on areas, areas known to be haunted. Don't be ashamed of the past. The past is the past. Ignorance was the norm. Nothing can be done about those things. This could actually show that the city was showing how not to be. I would easily pay $5.00 or more for admission. Gosh! Ghost Hunter TV shows, tours...... The potential is HUGE!! Turning it into a college for Chinese students?? What country do we live in again??

Posted by NeedMoreInfo (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 9:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Well said yepUbetchya. Please don’t forget though, that we also should be able to walk the streets of this town, free from the risks of tripping over sex toys lined up on the streets…

http://www.fergusfallsjournal.com/news/2...

Posted by goingfishing (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 10:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Everybody should look at those videos Cooper did and there is not a bit of doubt, they would know that Cooper is a kook.
As far as Chinese here for a school, I don't want them anywhere near Fergus. I remember the Irianian days of old and they were nothing but a detriment. And that was less than 50 of them. Turn that into 300, 400, 500 or more and we will have a disaster in town. Keep the Chinese out, let film making folks use it all the time.

Posted by yepUbetchya (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 10:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Coffee, we live in one where people like Jamie Cooper think they can call themselves politicians because they have a computer, yet cannot tell the difference between satire and rhetoric.

When this silly movie debate calms down, the hospital no longer needs security guards, and when we can go swimming without the fear of hairy-man-cheeks, this quiet little city will still be here. Still content, and still asking itself the same questions. Change is good, ruts are better.

Posted by coffeewithlena (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 10:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Touché!
LOL!

Posted by TRH (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 11:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

IT is sad to see Fergus Falls, respond to a city council decision here, greetfor the paper though. It is easier to sit and read, instead of actually being at the Council meeting your self. I think if Hundreds showed up to the council meeting for either a pro or a con, the meeting would still be going on.For the youngster in the community, please don't forget, that the "older people," of Fergus Falls, were the youngsters in their day, and wanted what you want. People were searching to "find them selves," only to find, that evry one cares, but very very few are in a position to really help one out. It is up to you to keep the Wolf away from your back door, as they are too busy keeping to wolf away from theirs.This applies to most us young or old.Thank God for the freedom one has in America, and yes, Fergus Falls.
By your leave please, What do you suppose happens to people in China, who voice any negative comments,toward the Party?
Do you think the Party would let you leave Ferfus Falls, if it wasn't in their best interests to do so? Do any of you think for one moment the chinese are oblivious to what is going on in Feregus Falls. Our own Pentagon has difficulty keeping out Party hackers,from getting into sesative ares. some time we win, and some times we lose.Poor little Fergus Falls, well how much money do you suppose it would take to control most of Fergus Falls, if you will.
Once you speak of Cina, you speak also of the United Staes of Ameria. Hey just as with life, one learns swiftly, family influence, stops, and society steps in. Where China choses to spend it's money, for what ever reason, America pays attention.
I really don't think the Chinese Party is spooked off that easily. The whole of our government doesn't seem to have much influence on them. Hey but if a few ghosts could do it, in he name of humanity, let us give it a try. I better quit here, be kind, and I need to go and talk to the Pentagon, new secret weapon may be at hand.
One more thing, you name is probably being added as we speak, and of course you knew that.

Posted by AmyO (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 11:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I find it so funny that Cooper is running for City Council, yet doesn't think there is anything wrong with leaving up such vulgar and incendiary (or in the case of the "Beatbox" video, just embarassing) videos of himself on the web.

Jamie, objective #1 of politics... Get people to like you. Objective #2... Get people to agree with you. These videos (as well as your complete and utter lack of humility) makes it almost impossible for you to accomplish #1. Good luck on #2.

I'm sad about the movie vote. I totally would have put it on my netflix queue. : )

Posted by JL (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Not that I am taking sides with anyone on here, but I don't see why people are getting down on Jamie Cooper for his videos on utube....there are teachers and daycare ladies that do a lot worst things on utube point being that at least Jamie is offering up some ideas and solutions to a problem. Something that the majority of the city council never does, and if they do it doesn't matter what the people of Fergus want it is what the few on the board want that will be approved just look at the movie deal. Look at how many people are and were for having the movie, but that means nothing to the city council they do what they want because they have the power to do so....some new ideas would be good for this town and Jamie's got some so get off the utube videos and start looking at the bigger picture(new ideas)

Posted by theweasel (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 11:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey JL, Coopers videos are a prime example of some of coopers ideas.The fact that he thinks they are good ideas shoud tell you something about his capacticy for reasonable thinking.

Posted by Mel (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 11:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

To me, it's not just about the movie, it's about saving the Kirkbride. I would have allowed the movie, and would have insisted that the Kirkbride, and Fergus, be prominently credited in the movie, not kept out.
Any publicity to the town and the Kirkbride could only be a GOOD THING. To those who want to tear down the RTC, the only thing to try to do is keep it VERY low key, then get rid of it. Not so low key right now, is it?
Remember the Phelps Mill, the person (name?) who keep it preserved was correct. (what a battle she had) I know of no one who wants to get rid of it now.
I can't believe what has been decided, it is so unbeiveable.
How about seeing if the movie maker could wait until after the next election?

Posted by theweasel (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 11:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If you are going to vote for Jamie Cooper, in November you should also vote for John McSame. There is no reason the rest of the country should not be just as miserable as we in Fergus Falls.

Posted by theweasel (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 11:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I liked that artistic video where he keeps repeating “I want to kill everybody” and then strums the same five notes over and over and over and over the entire length of that artistic song. Do you think it is too late to nominate him for a Grammy?

Posted by JL (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The weasel, I get it that the videos are not the best thing for someone to have that is running for city council, but the teacher that has a video (yes worst than Cooper's)is teaching our children and nothing was ever said about that and nothing done about it even after STUDENTS viewed it and showed their parents and reported it to the school. Well I got way off track off the article sorry.

Posted by theweasel (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 11:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I find it amazing that a man who’s personal finances are in a shambles, wants to manage the cities budget.
A man with a criminal record want to be the chief law enforcement official in town. A man with the low moral values demonstrated in self-made videos professes to be a minister of god. A man who thinks his videos are a good idea, wants the rest of us to seriously consider his other ideas. How long would it be before some drug dealing defendant raised the defense in court that….”your own mayor says the local cops planted evidence”

Posted by bucksteel (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 11:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

That teacher was not seeking celebrity status on a site such as this either.

Posted by theweasel (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

JL, I have not seen the teachers video, perhaps you could provide a link. Regardless, a tasteless video by a teacher should not excuse coopers videos. If the teacher video is that bad than my position is that he or she should be fired and cooper should not be hired.

Posted by mccain08 (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 12:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

citizens of FF you have no power or backbone. you let the city council run your town into the ground and dont even protest at all; and you will continue to reelect the same scared old men to represent you. thats why i'm not voting for cooper. those videos of cooper scare me and show that cooper might have an artistic side and a sense of humor. i want my elected officials to be robots owned by who ever has the most money. Dont forget to vote for McCain in Nov.

Posted by theweasel (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What was the name of that monkey who painted the so-called modern art works back in the 1960’s. they said he had an artistic side also, but at the end of the day he was still a monkey. Yea, vote McSame in November, that’s the ticket.

Posted by JL (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I believe the link has been removed for I cannot access it at the moment. Back on the subject I cannot believe the publicity this article has accumulated in the last couple of days. So much for the town of Fergus not getting a bad rap. I wonder if the city council realizes how much damage they have caused this town

Posted by tsy86h (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 12:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Cooper also believes that he plays such an important roll in Fergus Falls that the landfill reported that they will soon be full just because Cooper is suggesting a spring clean up week. He is really a man of great power I guess, so much that he scared the folks at the landfill. He has also admitted that if he is not elected for city council, tax payers will still pay his bills as he then will file for disability checks. No point in going out to find a real job, huh Coop. If elected Cooper will blame everyone else for mistakes he will make for the city and take full credit for everything positive that happens. He has proven this just by how he blames everyone else for the bad times in his life, yet pats himself on the shoulder for his accomplishments which so far all I have been convinced of (and I am just taking his word for it) is that his son is an honor roll student. Of course his sons teachers or his son himself played no role in this I am sure.
I am very surprised that Cooper would even have time to serve the citizens of Fergus Falls, as he stated earlier he needs to spend some of his time responding to his fans. I really hope his fan clubs all over the world will be able to share him with us in Fergus Falls.

Posted by AmyO (anonymous) on August 20, 2008 at 12:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

JL wrote... "there are teachers and daycare ladies that do a lot worst things on utube point being that at least Jamie is offering up some ideas and solutions to a problem..."

There was a man in Germany in the 1920's who authored a book entitled Mein Kampf or "My Struggle" (originally entitled "Four Years of Struggle against Lies, Stupidity, and Cowardice") who offered up many "ideas and solutions" as well. At the time, no one thought it was that important to look at