President’s Letter

President’s Message
J. Gerard Capell
For a few precious days in mid-December the Murray Hill Neighborhood was covered in a lovely blanket of white glistening snow. I love such moments as they provide a fresh view of the neighborhood and soften the harsh sounds of the city. As I look out my window with a hot cup of coffee in my hands, I wish we could find a magical equivalent to erase the din of the politics, the wars, and economic gloom that surround us. Fortunately, we do have our fond memories of the past, the present moment, and dreams of a more peaceful future. In that light I look at what we have achieved in Murray Hill this year, and set my sights on 2009 and the goals to make that a memorable and successful year.
In January, Murray Hill successfully organized the first comprehensive alderman candidate forum with over 300 attendees from the upper eastside getting a view of the 8 candidates and their positions. With the help of the other neighborhood associations we were able to develop a good variety of questions, work with the Miramar Theatre, and publicize the event through the entire area.
We also have continued to be a potent force in the redefinition of the administrative rules defined in Chapters 17 and 18 that are winding through the UW System and Legislature. These changes certainly are not silver bullets to bring instant improvements to the disrespectful and childish behavior of some students and their visitors, but it is a step in the right direction helping define the benefits of discipling action and enhancing the university’s ability to establish order.
Just as we have worked with UW-Milwaukee, MHNA have also been a significant partner in the development of the Northeast Side Comprehensive Plan to direct future development around UW-Milwaukee, Oakland Ave Business District and to some degree the Downer Avenue Business District. It will also help guide development of future transportation routes, and housing to support the entire neighborhood.
Our membership has hit record highs this year, producing enough revenue to allow MHNA to fund special neighborhood events. We helped support the second annual Plein Aire Artist show on Downer Avenue and publicized events at the local business districts such as North Avenue’s farmer’s, the events at Lake Park and Urban Ecology Center, and most recently Downer’s Festive Friday. What is the use of living in such a diverse neighborhood if we don’t know about what is going on around you and taking advantage of it?
Once the New Year finally arrives, I look forward to pressing for a membership goal of over 300, dare I dream for 350? I want to see expanded participation by our members on the committees and board to help us all enjoy our lives and the bounty of resources that surround us and become and even more influential in shaping our small corner of the city, by having quality housing, diverse and successful businesses to serve the residents, and most importantly the wisdom and leadership to shape the organization as we continue to interact with the City, the University, and the developers who have the funds and will to shape the neighborhood. Certainly I want to see the proposed changes in Chapters 17 and 18 passed by the Regents and Legislature. I also look forward to being seen as an organization that the City and developers will WANT to talk to before they make their plans for new businesses, knowing that we have valid concerns and valuable input which will result in a better project for everyone.
This is a big stocking to fill but I have faith in the members and residents of Murray Hill that we can achieve all this and more in 2009 bringing peace, prosperity, and good will to all.