Thumbs down:

To efforts to keep media out of endorsing conventions. If political parties want to be taken seriously and care about accurate reporting of what goes on at their gatherings, then they need to allow access to their events.

Both Democrats and Republicans have refused to allow reporters and bloggers into some events, The Associated Press reports. The biggest objection by party officials is linked to audio and video that gets edited and used on such venues as YouTube.

But instead of parties deciding to set rules that media must abide by, they are just denying access. Recently reporters from the reputable media outlets Minnesota Public Radio and the St. Cloud Times were excluded from local party conventions.

Closing the doors is not a solution to the problem and will end up shortchanging the parties as well as the public.

Thumbs up:

Donated legal services ensure justice

To the 100 or so attorneys associated with the Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services Volunteer Attorneys program.

These attorneys volunteer their time to help people in need of legal assistance but without the means to pay. In some cases, they are able to help a single mother with children to care for get a fair settlement in her divorce.

Officials with the group say there’s much need among the elderly and the recent spike in home foreclosures has created a need to help people who are losing their homes. Still, much of the help is needed in areas of family law, including divorce cases and cases of abuse. In other cases, the elderly need help with Social Security issues.

All in all, the pro bono work these lawyers do helps support people who need to use the justice system and it gives the justice system credibility letting people know you don’t have to have a lot of money to get a fair shake.

Thumbs up:

Kudos to ‘Capital’ New Ulm

To the city of New Ulm for its part in being Capital for a Day as part of the 150th anniversary of Minnesota as a state. The city hosted numerous events this week that highlighted New Ulm’s history and provided visitors with connections to the city and its place on the Minnesota River.

Cities had to apply to win the designation and New Ulm won the honor for representing Minnesota’s grassland prairie biome. It was a fine event and one that drew a lot of civic pride.