Hi Patch Readers! How About Some Real Political Conversations?

Hi Patch readers! My name is Dave Mindeman and I will be tossing some blog posts your way and, because of that, I thought I'd introduce myself. I have lived in Apple Valley for over 15 years, own a home here, married to a very tolerant spouse for the last 37 years, and have a 14 year old son. Yes, your math is correct....we had our only child very close to the rickety bone stage. But it has been great and I wouldn't change a thing.

I work as a pharmacist. My wife is a retired attorney -- her retirement coincided with the birth of our son. We have a comfortable life style and try to travel whenever we can.

Now, at first blush, you may think that what I have described to you would fit the profile of a mildly conservative guy.

Wrong.

For as far back as I can remember I have been a dedicated, dyed in the wool, liberal. For the past 5 years, I have been writing a liberal blog -- www.mnpact.org -- and have a small (slightly disturbed) following. Mostly I have used the blogging as a means to vent my personal thoughts and ideas. I get some flak at times, but that's OK.

You see, I firmly believe in political dialogue. How are we going to solve anything if we don't talk to each other? That is why I appreciate what the Patch website is doing. They plan to give a number of people a chance to share their ideas....and I, for one, think that's great.

I hope that you will take a few moments of your time and check out the things I have to say, as well as the other blogs that will come. Keep in mind that Patch does not endorse anything said here -- they are merely providing the access portal. And I hope that when you access this portal that you will feel free to join in the conversation. Argue with me, vent your own frustrations, or add extra context....go ahead. The exchange of ideas is always a positive thing.

Talk to you soon!

Dave Mindeman