samoasoftball

2012-01-25T20:22:00.000-08:00

650 Students in SouthernHumboldt will be without home to school transportation in the near future. Thecuts equals $1,800 per student a year. Can't the Southern Humboldt MJ Growerskick down what they should be paying in state and federal taxes directly to theSchool Districts to help with the shortfall? Greedy ass holes won't even helptheir own fire districts! Start a foundation to help the kids. Want to makemoney off the Rural land but not help the rural children? Shame on you!

It could be worse though, in the Death Valley UnifiedSchool District has to spend $3,500 per student. Don't think they grow as muchdope there. Nothing grows except scrub brush.

Why did Home to School Transportation get cut? Might want to ask Chesbro, Huffman and Evans!

2012-01-16T10:29:00.000-08:00

Assembly Bill 121,considered a “Trigger Bill”, was introduced by Huffman, Chesbro and othermembers of the Committee on Budget. This bill called for the elimination of $248Million from the Home-to-School transportation fund. It was voted on by the Assembly and Senatefloor on 6/28/11. The Assembly passed this bill 51-28 with both Huffman andChesbro as “Aye” votes. The Senate passed the bill 23-17 with Noreen Evansvoting “Aye”. The bill was enacted with Governor Jerry Brown signature.

I would venturethat when arguments were coming up about this bill, someone probably pointedout that only 16% of the students in California use the bus, so this affectsonly a small part of the population. But why did our rural legislativerepresentatives not consider how harshly this would affect our far northcounties? Or how can they justify what has happened.

Stephen Rhoads ofStrategic Education Services, which represents a coalition of schooltransportation departments. says that what has been rumored was that theDemocrats thought that cutting transportation would hurt the Republicans. Inthe end, it doesn’t hurt the Republicans at all, because none of them voted forAB 121. Rhoads says that the Democrats were following the direction of theirleadership and may not even have known what they were approving.

Both Evans andChesbro seem to be experiencing regret on voting for this bill. Chesbro hasbeen getting a lot of mail and phone calls and is meeting in caucus with hispeers to come up with a way to restore the funding. Evans, too, is scramblingto undo the damage.

I appreciate that our legislators are now trying to do something about the issue, but what do you think those odds are? Not very good in my book.

(Thanks to MaryAnderson of the Redwood Times for some of this information)

McKinleyville Press sensationalizing story? Robin Marks to jail? Samoasoftball needs conjugal visitation?

2012-01-06T12:20:00.000-08:00

2nd Congressional Predictions Mendocino County.

2012-01-03T11:37:00.000-08:00

I am not convinced that Republican Dan Roberts will have any legs in any of the Northern Counties. Less than 50% of the Republicans will vote for him, with many split votes all over the place. This is a harder County to canvas and campaign, so I am giving the advantage to Huffman, Adams and Lawson. After Del Norte, Trinity, Humboldt and Mendocino, I have Solomon with 13,184, Huffman at 12,789, Adams at 12,505 and Lawson at 11,075. Very close with 2 counties to go. Watch for Roberts making a dramatic move down south!

County		Population	Voters	Dems	Reps	Other	Percent
*Mendocino*		86,000	48,000	11054	5645	6821	49%
	Banafsheh Akhlaghi			221	56	68	1.5%
	Normon Solomon			2245	286	1156	15.7%
	Dan Roberts			553	1976	682	13.7%
	Susan Adams			2110	890	1364	18.6%
	Jared Huffman			2310	800	1400	19.2%
	William Courtney			553	169	205	3.9%
	Andy Caffery			521	56	273	3.6%
	Stacey Lawson			1888	960	1400	18.1%
	Tiffany Renee			653	452	273	5.9%
				11054	5645	6821

On to Humboldt for the 2nd Congressional seat!

2011-12-29T17:25:00.000-08:00

In Iowa, candidates are "Running to the Right", but in Humboldt it is more like "Running to the Left!" I really feel that Humboldt is going to be the critical county for this race. I know Jared Huffman has garnered some high name endorsements, but having the HSU Democrats won't do him much good if those kids aren't here to vote! Huffman seems to be ignoring the county, or he has some plan I have not figured out yet. Susan Adams has Richard Salzman helping out, and that is big for her campaign. (Look for some huge endorsements in the near future that will shock many in Humboldt County politics.) Richard can find votes where some do not dare to tread. Norman Solomon has his "Boots to the Ground" campaign starting to make headway. It is just going to be really close. So after Del Norte, Trinity and Humboldt County predictions, Solomon is in 1st at 9,497, Huffman is in 2nd at 8,279, Adams in 3rd at 8,141, Lawson in 4th at 6,827 and Republican Dan Roberts in 5th at 6,319.

These numbers will change drastically as we move to the Southern County of Mendocino next.

County		Pop	Voters	Dems	Reps	Other	%
*Humboldt*		135,000	76,000	16416	10944	9120	48%
	Banafsheh Akhlaghi			328	164	137	1.7%
	Normon Solomon			3930	757	2098	18.6%
	Dan Roberts			328	3830	1001	14.1%
	Susan Adams			3951	1094	2006	19.3%
	Jared Huffman			3283	1860	1824	19.1%
	William Courtney			657	328	274	3.5%
	Andy Caffery			1149	547	182	5.1%
	Stacey Lawson			2298	1925	1324	15.2%
	Tiffany Renee			492	439	274	3.3%
				16416	10944	9120

Samoasoftball rates candiates at PDA 2nd Congressional District Forum.

2011-12-23T15:01:00.000-08:00

The Progressive Democrats of Eureka hosted a forum for the 2^ndDistrict Congressional candidates yesterday and nearly 100 people showed up tohear what each of the 6 candidates that showed had to say. (No times Standard?What is with that?) Eureka City Councilperson Linda Atkins made sure thingsmoved timely and orderly and here is my take and ratings.

Andy Caffery: Andy sung his Earth First! introduction about “Whereare we going to work when the trees are gone?” He says he has been working onthe Klamath water issue for 30 years. Hefeels the Climate change is the most important issue for the North Coast and theeconomy. Says the Dems and Reps have failed us. We need to close the 150 militarybases around the world. He also feels we need to look to creating an Ecotopiahere. Need attention on Animal Species Extinction due to climate change. Says he will be the “worst nightmare”Republicans will have to face in the House. “Bush needed to be impeached!” Nothappy with Nancy Pelosi either. Doesn’t like the fact that Urban areas such asEureka makes decisions effecting rural areas and would like to create an “EmeraldCity” out of Garberville. In his closinghe blamed the Republicans on dismantling the Country and we need to uphold “Green”values. I would give him a 3 out of 5rating. I thought he would talk more pot.

William Courtney: Hadhard time speaking up. He believes in a flat tax. Feels we should “Contributewhat you can.” Feels we should have a surcharge tax of $50 per Marijuana plantand we should push exporting of same as well as legalization. Figures we have350,000 plants in the district. Thinks Wave/Ocean energy needs to be tappedinto and that we need a “Global Project” to face the potential of losing 50% ofearthly species due to climate change. Supports a Clean Energy Act. As a doctorhe feels we need to expand use of healthy molecules through raw juices topeople. In closing he felt we had an array of problems that could be dealt withthrough compromise and Corporations stands as a problem. Smart guy but hard to understand.2 out of 5 rating.

Tiffany Renee: Stressed her community service asCouncilperson of Petaluma and being the first Latina on the council. FeelsCongress needs to work together. Feels we need to either raise the limit to$250,000 or eliminate altogether Social Security tax thresholds. Thinks we need to reclassify cannabis and letcity and counties regulate. As congressperson would look to consensus and evaluatewhen sometimes needing to “Fall on the Sword.” Petaluma has been on the forefront of environmentalissues for years and she has been involved in the processes. She “stays engaged”on issues and is running a low budget campaign. In closing she was optimistic thatcongress will have a large turnover. Sweet lady who is just not ready for thisstage yet. 2 out of 5 rating.

Susan Adams: She hasbeen a nurse 33 years and currently a Board of Supervisor member of MarinCounty. With her leadership Marin has aHealthy financial reserve. Feels we need to get off fossil fueldependence. “Congress is out of touch.The majority of people filing for bankruptcy are from Medical bills!” Blames Bushand Regan tax cuts from the past. “Somethings wrong when Warren Buffet feels heshould pay more tax!” See feels the need for taxing “Fair Share.” “We need toprotect Social Security and Medicare #1.”Feels that Humboldt County needs Marine Highway to transport goods in and outand feels we need better broadband. Economy will grow organically with rightcomponents. Feels we need to sometimesnot make partisan decisions but don’t give away the store either. Need to be a carefulsteward. “We need Green Clean jobs!”Carbon Credits? Susan said she would hold dual residency if elected in theNorth and South parts of the district and has family in Carlotta. In closing Susan claims to have “In theTrench” progressive experience and also has life experience of “Watching babiescome into this life, and people leaving this life also.” She was clearly the best here. Ididn’t know what to expect. But does she have any financing? That could be herproblem. Financial viability is part of this equation. 4 out of 5 rating.

Stacy Lawson: Saysshe is the only one experienced in job creation. Has started up a fewsuccessful companies. Grew up in a mill town much like Eureka with logging andfishing the natural resources like the North Coast. Feels the gap is wideningbetween rich and poor with stagnate wages. Stacy says we need tax reform that mandates the rich paying 28%. As wellas increasing corporate taxes and taxing transactions on Stock Trades. She alsofeels we need a “Jobs Plan” on the National level. Put people to work on infrastructureimprovement such as Roads, Airports and Forest Restoration. As far as compromise at the Congressionallevel, wants to put civility back in politics. Maybe more dinners and drinks atthe bar to find common ground. Says the Klamath agreement is good for fish andwater restoration and jobs with the dismantling. She feels she has core middle class workethics and would like to share a comprehensive job plan. With 65% of businessesclassified as “Small” would like to see or force banks into investing back tothe people. Stacey closed by stressing she had actually created jobs and wouldlike to continue at the Congressional level. This is the “Job” candidate. Rawwith little political background. But she might be the best financed of thecandidates before this is over. So she is viable. She does have a framing andmessaging issue that may be straightened out by high dollar consultants in thenear future. I give her a 3.5 out of 5 rating.

Norman Solomon: Claimsto be a 40 year ”Progressive” and isdoing “Feet on the Ground” campaigning. Wants Social Justice and Social Change.Jobs are a must with need for “Massive” Federal help. Need for Marine Highwayand Short Sea Shipping. Need to reformWall Street. Will fight special interests. Will be able to resist the rightbecause of refusing Corporate PAC monies. “We need to protect water Quality andQuantity!” Againstoil drilling off our coast. He understands urban living and the need forrepresentation from Rural areas. Used the word “Ain’t” too many times. We aren’tthat bumpkin here! He closed by thanking former Eureka Mayor Peter LaValley andEureka School Board member Susan Johnson for their endorsements and invitedeveryone to a get together on Jan. 11^th at the Eureka Theater withPhil Donohue hosting. I wasexpecting more but he did OK. I really think he needs to step it up and separatehimself from the rest. Still time. I give him a 3 out of 5 rating.

Jared Huffman: The “Anointed One” did not attend. He is spending time for the holidays with family.Sent Committee Co-Chair Bonnie Neely to read statement. Bonnie did well with the written script. Didnothing for me. Huffman gave more of what we can expect from him in the futureif elected. More of the same as what we have had. 1 out 5 rating.

2nd Congressional predictions Trinity County!

2011-12-22T14:21:00.000-08:00

On the ground organizing will be important in Trinity and it sounds like Solomon's campaign has this in order with the proper contacts. But Republican Dan Roberts will take this more conservative leaning county. Even though the numbers for each party is close, the Dems will be scrambling for votes. So after Del Norte and Trinty County predictions, Roberts leads at 1,970, Soloman is 2nd at 1,912, Huffman 3rd at 1,503 and Lawson in 4th at 1,308. Upcoming next is Humboldt!

County		Pop	Voters	Dems	Reps	Other	%
*Trinity*		13,800	7,700	1980	1925	235	54%
	Banafsheh Akhlaghi			40	20	5	1.6%
	Normon Solomon			650	158	55	20.8%
	Dan Roberts			75	975	20	25.7%
	Susan Adams			320	155	38	12.3%
	Jared Huffman			392	230	30	15.7%
	William Courtney			95	60	11	4.0%
	Andy Caffery			45	25	9	1.9%
	Stacey Lawson			248	255	55	13.4%
	Tiffany Renee			115	47	12	4.2%
				1980	1925	235

2011-12-21T11:12:00.000-08:00

The Progressive Democrats of Eureka are hosting a candidates forum for the 2nd Congressional District TOMORROW (December 22), 7 pm at the Labor Temple, 840 E Street in Eureka. The Progressive Democrats of Eureka are an off branch of the Humboldt County Democratic Central Committee and are led by Eureka Councilperson Linda Atkins. Should be interesting since the PDA has already endorsed Norman Solomon.

Samoasoftball handicaps 2nd Congressional race starting with Del Norte.

2011-12-19T16:16:00.000-08:00

I will admit there are alot of variables in this race. Will Banafsheh Akhlaghi drop out? There has been little heard from her camp. Who will Debra Broner and the Del Norte Democrats support? I know Normon Solomon will have support, and then it comes down to the money candidates. I am predicting a 37% turnout. Here is my prediction for Del Norte County this June:

Stay tuned for Trinity County next!

County		Pop	Voters	Dems	Reps	Other	%
*Del Norte*		28,610	12,440	1749	1749	1105
	Banafsheh Akhlaghi			52	17	22	2%
	Normon Solomon			577	140	332	23%
	Dan Roberts			87	647	166	20%
	Susan Adams			245	140	144	11%
	Jared Huffman			420	210	221	18%
	William Courtney			95	52	44	4%
	Andy Caffery			35	35	33	2%
	Stacey Lawson			280	305	165	16%
	Tiffany Renee			105	87	33	5%

Matt Gulley, Arcata High. Local High School observations.

2011-12-13T16:15:00.000-08:00

The video is of Matt Gulley, who is the last player I coached now playing high school. I coached boys and girls basketball at Peninsula elementary for many years and have retired from that a few years ago. (Peninsula does not have enough kids anymore for a team.)

I recently went to watch Matt at the Arcata High Invitational honoring Jerry Paul and witnessed Matt score 10 points and block shots and rebound in helping lead Arcata to a win over Anderson High. Arcata made the Championship game against Franklin, and the Arcata coach only went 6 man deep and played just a few others under 1 minute. I hate it when coaches do this. When you are winning or losing by many points, bring in the reserves! This coach also had his son starting as a junior and played him almost the entire game, even though his son was getting exhausted out there! Will Taylor is looking really good a point guard and Tom Witzel may be the best player in the league this year for Arcata.

As far as the Eureka High Loggers go, this is the tallest team I can ever remember in the county! But they have a new coach who has a sophomore son as point guard and he is trying to run and gun and press all over with a short lineup! Coach, play to your strengths! Start 6'6" Senior Mitchell Hash at the point, 6'7" Junior Bryce Rose at the other guard, 6'7" Senior Mandeep Singh at forward, 6'7" Sophomore Eli Savage at the other forward and 6'5" Junior Nate Madsen in the Post! Tallest, most athletic team in the county. And use 6'3" Sophomore Alexis Robinson and Freshman Marcus Finney off the bench at Guards. And you still have 6'6" Senior Ryan Hulbert to fit into the mix on the fron line. This team should be the favorite in league by far!

Fortuna has 5 sophmores on their team, but the trump card is 6'3"Sophmore point guard Nate Ambrosini. He broke the Loggers press effortlessly and was at the foul line 21 times. He ended with 25 points and led the Huskies to a Consolation Championship over Eureka. Brady Shaha is tough in the middle, but they are going to have height issues. (No one over 6'3").

McKinleyville will be fun to watch because of Parker Farris. He has to be the best improviser in the county. And he has great court sense. You can not teach what he does. Cody Bates plays with heart, but I just don't see alot off the bench.

It is early though, so these observations may come back and haunt me.

Major Marks at Pearl Harbor 70 years ago!

2011-12-07T11:42:00.001-08:00

That's my Father on the left. He was at Pearl Harbor 70 years ago today. He later became a Major in the Army and retired in the late 50's to become a lawyer.

Stacey Lawson for Congress?

2011-12-03T09:04:00.000-08:00

I had a chance to meet Stacey yesterday in Eureka with a group of Labor Representatives and was highly impressed by her observations of the 2nd Congressional race. She has progressive values much like Solomon. This race also has Susan Adams, so there are many good choices. Huffman is the Corporate candidate with the anointing of Thompson, so I am looking for who has the best chance of beating him in the long haul. Stacey is the best funded, but it is still early.

Hometown Buffett closes!

2011-11-28T18:30:00.000-08:00

Say it ain't so! How can I get my grub on when I want quantity and don't care about quality? Bring back King's Table! And why no notice for the workers?

Thompson gifts Warren Buffett 750 million dollars of public monies?

2011-11-25T17:22:00.000-08:00

First, let me preface that I want the Dams removed from the Klamath. I want PacificCorp to pay for this.

In 1911 California Oregon Power Company started building 4 dams on the Upper Klamath river. For years Indian tribes and Commercial Fisherman have demanded removal in hopes of revitalizing fish runs. There is a tentative pact that will theoretically allow for farmers to retain water rights for irrigation in Oregon. The deal is a collaborative legislation between Congressman Thompson and Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley.

Here is my problem with this pact. The cost for removal is 1 Billion dollars! PacificCorp is to pay 250 million dollars and Thompson and Merkley want the Federal Government to pay 500 million! Then Thompson and Merkley say the remaining balance will be covered by "non federal sources." It will actually come from California Taxpayers through a chunk of a 11.1 billion dollar state water bond that is scheduled to be on the ballot next year. There will be no gain of our usable water supply in California with the removal of the dams. What is the rational? Improved runs on the Klamath will offset losses of habitat in the Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta. (According to Sacramento Bee writer Dan Walters)

So basically, instead of waiting for PacificCorp to remove the dams on their dime, Warren Buffet is benefiting with a gift of 750 million dollars total of your taxpayer dollars. Yeah, he really needs more money. And Thompson gets credit for helping fishing habitat in his new district in the Sacramento valley!

And Thompson wants a vote for Huffman? No thanks, Solomon for Congress!

Happy Turkey day!

2011-11-24T08:49:00.000-08:00

Things to be thankful for:

1. Family and friends.
2. Food on the table. Thank God for the bounty!
3. Health.
4. Softball.
5. Niners are in first!

What do you have to add?

Eureka Basketball meeting tonight!

2011-11-17T10:27:00.000-08:00

At the Adorni at 6pm. $600 per team.

IN-N-OUT Burger in Eureka! Oh Boy!

2011-11-16T15:08:00.000-08:00

Rumor has it that IN- N- OUT Burger is setting up shop at the old Arctic Circle location on 5th St. Anyone else heard this? Now we will have to get used to that secret menu list. 2XMeat, Animal Style, Flying Dutchman and all the other cult names for their burgers. Bring it on!

101 Safety Corridor meeting. Larry Glass to BOS, “Don’t become Stockholm Syndrome victims to Cal Trans threats!”

2011-11-14T17:51:00.000-08:00

And in a quick synopsis, what he was saying was the truth. Cal Trans wants this improvement project to move forward or they are threatening to close all the medians on the corridor. And Cal Trans is not going to help pay for the improvements! But they can fund the closing of the medians? This is just ridiculous. Most other needed road improvement projects in the County will now be put on hold for this 10 million dollar boondoggle.

The Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 to go forward with the project with Mark Lovelace and Jimmy Smith dissenting. There were around 40 people who spoke in public on the issue in a packed Board Chamber. Residents and business owners along the corridor are scared to death for their businesses and who can blame them with this threat by Cal Trans hanging over them. This doesn’t leave good community dialogue for solutions.

HSU tailgate practice, Jacks win 37-7! Why we live in Humboldt.

2011-11-12T16:44:00.000-08:00

Lyndon Rowells ran for 246 yards and the Jack defense intercepted 7 passes in beating Western Oregon University 37-7 to avenge a earlier loss to them at their home.

It was senior night for the team and I was sitting near a woman who was mother to #40on the team. She asked if our group of guys were from Humboldt. I told her that between the 4 of us sitting together we had over 200 years in Humboldt! (Doug Weatherbee, John Egerer, Mickey Ayala and myself. And we have known each other over 150 years!) She thought that was real cool that we had lived that long in Humboldt. And that crowd tailgating? Add a few more hundred years!

Hug a Veteran day.

2011-11-11T14:33:00.000-08:00

The picture is my brother Roy in Vietnam. He died of complications from Agent Orange exposure. He served in Nam and Korea. My father Major Marks was at Pearl Harbor when it was bombed and he served in Korea. My oldest brother James served in Korea. My brother Mike served in Vietnam. I decided to not enlist after seeing the affects of Nam on my older brothers. I would have went if drafted, but the draft was stopped by the time I was 18. I hate war, but appreciate the men and women who fight for our freedoms. This day is for them.

Wanda Vickers leaves too early.

2011-10-30T20:18:00.000-07:00

Wanda was so patient with all of the children she watched over on the Peninsula. Always looking for the good and trying to uplift any that were on the wrong path. Her Husband Glen and I worked at the Pulp Mill together for nearly 30 years. He was there around 45! Glen has played guitar for the Roadmasters band forever and I just can't say enough good for them both. She would probably find it amusing that the Manila Community Center was packed with an overflow crowd for her memorial. She had no idea on how many lives she touched. God bless her.

Local 49 Pulp Mill Workers last act of Benevolence.

2011-10-25T15:14:00.000-07:00

The Association of Western Pulp and Paper Workers Local 49 had a long history of donating to causes such as Relay for life, little league and others, so it was no surprise that the former Pulp Mill workers agreed with my suggestion to donate the last of our locals dollars to Humboldt charities. I put out a list of 8 charities that would garner a donation of $500 each and then went back and forth over the list. Here are the local agencies that I wrote checks to. I think these are very worthy ones for you to consider donating to if you have extra cash.

Food for People
The Humboldt All Faith Partnership
Humboldt Area Foundation
Humboldt Domestic Violence Services
Humboldt Senior Resource Center
American Cancer Society
Betty Chin/St Vincent de Paul Homeless Fun
Hospice of Humboldt

So that pretty much does it for Local 49. It has been an honor to serve as President and I have been so fortunate to have worked with so many great people at the Pulp Mill.

Local Union Shops!

2011-10-20T14:43:00.000-07:00

Top 5 Best Chicken Fried Steak Breakfast places.

2011-10-17T10:35:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just have a huge grub to get on. And when it comes to Chicken Fried Steaks (CFS), you don't want it screwed up! I so miss Betty Mae's and Bev's.

#5 TIE-Cutten Inn, Pantry, Bear River and Hometown Buffet. It is a quantity thing you know.

#4 Marie Calenders. The portions could be bigger. Their coffee sucks.

#3 Momma's Kitchen. Not bad and always friendly.

#2 Kristina's. Awfully good, but you just don't know if it will be over cooked.

#1 Toni's. Hands down. You will have to dig through the pile to find the eggs and potatoes. Huge portion and consistent. That is a biggie with CFS.

Norman Solomon for Congress?

2011-10-11T08:40:00.000-07:00

Anti Corporate, pro single payer health, anti war, against rural post office shutdowns, wants to invest in education and holds the creation of jobs as #1 priority.

This is the only candidate for congress that has been around the Humboldt County population hub multiple times. A Progressive doing a real grassroots campaign. Sounds like a good candidate to me!

Viet Nam Vet Carlos Giovanneti passes on. 37 year Pulp Mill worker. Only 558,000 Nam vets left?

2011-10-06T12:08:00.000-07:00

Carlos Giovanetti passed away this past Monday. Loving referred to as a "Waspahoe" by his co-workers, he was actually of Italian and Tolowa Dee-ni' Native American ancestry. Carlos always said what he felt, even when the recipient might not appreciate it. He was always looking for public banter at work. He was a very competent operator and who knew the bleach plant well.

Carlos was a Viet Nam veteran that is fast becoming extinct. Out of the original 2.7 men and women who fought there, only about 558,000 remain with us. And as of the year 2000, 390 vets from that war die a day! Carlos and I had deep angry discussions about faith and Soldiers that died in Nam. Things happened over there that I just could not relate to.

Carlos was a great athlete who never bragged about his accomplishments and he loved to spectate at football, baseball, volleyball and softball games. He loved his family. What more can one say. I will miss him.

Obama the best in fiduciary responsibility?

2011-10-03T20:03:00.000-07:00

You make the call!

Samoa Apple Festival! Harvest time.

2011-09-27T09:37:00.000-07:00

It has taken 15 years for a dwarf apple tree in our back yard to produce. I have not seen any other apple trees on the Samoa peninsula. Robin has had success in growing cherry tomatoes but this years crop was slim.

Marks cars from the past. Between Robin and I.

2011-09-23T16:02:00.000-07:00

Marks Best Car Ranking & What Happened?

1. 90’ Ford Aerostar- Gave away to neighbors who had kids
2. 98’ Mercury Tracer- Gave to Charity
3. 2002 PT Cruiser- Still have at nearly 200,000 miles
4. 85’ Camaro- Well over 200,000 when I gave it to my brother
5. 70’ Mustang- I loved this car! Sold it while in college
6. 2002 Mustang- Kinda wish I had kept
7. 1995 BMW 325i- Keeps Knapek’s electrical in business
8. 76’Mazda 3XP- Drove it until it rusted out! This car had no high end I tell you!
9. 78’ Cordoba- Fine Corinthian leather, nice ride traded in
10. 70’ Dodge Charger- Never had issues with engine, just electrical stuff, sold for $150?
11. 85’ Corvette- Hassle getting in and out of, traded in
12. 65’ Ford Galaxy- Boring but dependable. Someone in the family ended up with it
13. 98’ Escort- Gave to Charity
14. 2006 Neon- Totaled. Son was ran into from behind.
15. 78’ Olds Delta 88- Sold for a few hundred
16. 74’ Monte Carlo- Traded in for TR-7
17. 63’ Nova- Fire engine Red, traded for 60’ Impala
18. 99’ Contour Traded in
19. 75’ TR-7- Fun car when it ran! Traded in
20. 60’ Impala- Fins and all! Traded for 66’ Impala
21. 66’ Impala- Bad wreck when Motor Mount broke. Totaled
22. 60’ Ford Ranchero- “The Rat Wagon” 177 engine and gutless
23. 70’ Pinto- Worked for work
24. 70’ Mazda 616- Robin’s first car
25. 75’ Audi- Gave away to neighbors in need for family

Not sure all the years correct but close. Didn’t make the list: 61’ Ford truck, 2-85’ Ford Rangers, 87’ Honda Accord, 85’ Buick Rivera, Olds Cutless, 89’ Lincoln Mark 7, 89’ Cadillac and others I am sure I forgot.

Road Rage attack in Fairhaven! Sand Dwellers gots the anger!

2011-09-21T10:07:00.000-07:00

I received a Neighborhood Watch report this morning regarding an incident of road rage. Seems a resident of Fairhaven was following a red Hyundai with a black spoiler on the peninsula heading south slowly and passed them. There was a girl driving with three guys and a pit bull in the car. They yelled and made obscene gestures at the guy when he passed them. The car that was passed followed the guy to his house in Fairhaven and the three guys brutally attacked the guy in his own driveway! Several Fairhaven residents witnessed the attack and followed the car as it left and parked in another place in Fairhaven. The Sheriff Department responded but the people denied involvement.

So now I wonder, why wasn't anyone arrested? And why do people have to be like this?

More Softball. Fall League 2011!

2011-09-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

Mad River Softball Association is hosting a Fall Wood Bat Softball League for Adults. If you have a team, or you are a free agent that wants to play, let me know. League will start either Sept. 22nd or 27th and run through October.

"Eurtweeka, I lost it!" We need a new slogan! Contest by Samoasoftball.

2011-09-04T17:02:00.000-07:00

Actually the City of Eureka had a one time slogan "Queen City of the Ultimate West" which does not seem to be very catchy. Sharing the "I found it slogan" with the State of California seems awkward in itself. We should have something like "Oyster Capital of the West", or "Fog City USA".

The City of Redding had a contest recently and had some pretty funny slogans submitted, "Redding, one methed up place!", "Welcome to Teabagastan", "Come on vacation, leave on probation", "Good paying jobs and great benefits are just a few hours away" and Welcome to Redding-(Slogan censored due to closed session vote on said slogan)."

There were more serious ones that were summitted, "Redding, Heaven on Earth, Hot as Hell", "Go jump in a lake!", Recreate, relax, repeat" and "A place to float your boat."

The winner won a dinner from Jack's Grill with "Redding: She's Hot!"

How about for Eureka; "Eureka, She's Tepid!"

Do you have a better slogan? Come up with good slogan and I will reward the best with a gift certificate for dinner for Rita's.

5 Busiest fast food drive tups in Eureka.

2011-08-21T18:04:00.000-07:00

The opening of Church's Chicken has caused quite the stir lately, but here is the way to busy drive-ups in Eureka:

5. Wendy's on Broadway. This place has cleaned up its act over the years.
4. Jack in the Box on Broadway. Cheap Taco's!
3. Burger King on 5th Street. Been down this lane many times.
2. McDonald's on 4th Street. They will screw up your order!
1. Taco Bell on Broadway. Crazy busy all of the time. I just don't get it.

Honorable mention to Subway on 4th and McDonald's on Broadway.

"You Queers!" Political incorrectness by senior softballers.

2011-08-17T10:55:00.000-07:00

My Samoa Athletic Club softball team played their final 2011 game against Babe's Pizza at Cooper Gulch last night. The players were in a good mood and we were still fielding a complete team after many injuries that will happen to players over 50 years old. During the game our Left Fielder Mike Burghart had a line drive hit his way and went down on his knees to scoop it off the ground. One of the players for Babe's was at 3rd base and thought the ball was trapped and ran home. Mike threw the ball to our 3rd baseman Randy Landowski and Randy stepped on the bag for a double play. The Babe's players threw a fit at umpire Henry Felix and for whatever reason started yelling obscenities to our team for the call. One of their players who is around 60 yelled "You Queers" out loud and tried to start a fist fight with one of our players! Talk about not good sportsmanship. I did not expect a homophobic slur during a game between Senior adults. May his AARP card be revoked!

Oh, we have been guilty of whinning but not at this level. And yes, I have been guilty of telling the Babe's players that their team name should be "Babie's". We are just trying to have fun and get some exercise and social interaction in a semi competitive setting.

I would like to thank the "Mossbacks" of Eureka and "Lets Play Ball" of Blue Lake for their participation and hope to see you with wood bats next year. Overall we had fun.

Samoa Athletic Club players for 2011 were Bob Sprague, John Parker, Dudley Walters, Jamie Robertson, Tony Hernandez, Randy and Billy Landowski, "Doc" Jones, Mike Burghart, Dave Damme, Scott Griswold, Glen Ferguson, Steve Ritter and Bob Borden.

May the DL list avoid us all next year!

Where or where is a decent Prime Rib in Eureka!

2011-08-10T11:39:00.000-07:00

I have brought this up before, but all I get is suggestions for steak places that do not serve prime rib dinners. Here are my suggestions, but there might be more out there.

5. Pantry-Are they still serving?
4. Sizzler-Is, well, a Sizzler.
3. Adels-Inconsistent is their only downfall.
2. Sea Grill-Wonderful Salad bar to boot!
1. Oberon in Old Town-I had a great dinner experience and was wowed that I had not tried this place before. Awesome Prime Rib.

I know there are other places in the county like Bear River, Curly's and Blue Lake, but you shouldn't have to travel so far.

Samoa redistricted to the 3rd?

2011-08-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

By reading the recommended guidelines for Humboldt County redistricting, I would say that Samoa should be a prime target to be moved to the 3rd Supervisorial District. "District lines cannot be drawn to split up communities of interest, which state law defines as a contiguous population which shares common social and economic interests that should be included within a single district for purposes of its effective and fair representation." That would seem to define the Peninsula well. Manila, Samoa, Finntown and Fairhaven all seem to share interest, and if the Manila Community Service District expands the juristiction to all of the peninsula we would definetly be contigous. "Districts must be in one contigous space."I believe the only reason the South Peninsula area was included in the 4th District was because of land owned by the City of Eureka and the Industrial properties. Not too much industry going on now. Other guidelines include preservation of cities which I have already covered and current Supervisors can not be drawn out of their districts. The only elected political position that would be affected would be the 4th Division Humboldt Bay Harbor Commissioner. Oh, that would be me!

Best Burger Joints in Humboldt County.

2011-07-25T16:38:00.000-07:00

Here is the criteria; must be primarily burger or Hot Dog themed places. No chains. (I do prefer a burger with genetically modified organisms GMOs over grass fed.)

10. Surfside Burger Shack (Eureka)- I do think they need to put up a corn fed beef option. Just buy those pre-made up from Costco or something.

9. Getti Up (Garberville)- Been awhile for me, but I don't remember being disappointed.

8. Bob's Footlong (Fortuna)-Lot's of choices and pleasant people.

7. Whimpy's (Willow Creek)- One of my favorites that has seemed to go down hill.

6. Fresh Freeze (Eureka)- Just not that big on their fries but they do have great burgers and shakes!

5. Deb's Great American Hamburger (Redway)-If you like Betty Boop, this is the place to visit.

4. Star's Burger (Eureka)-I have had good and bad experiences on Harrison. The bad has left me not going for awhile.

3. Mike's (Eureka)-Don't talk politics in here and you will do well. Don't seem to like Democrats in any flavor. Great greasy garlic fries.

2. Toni's (Arcata)-Their fries are so-so. But they have great burgers and great union rings. Good portions.

1. No Brand Burger stand (Ferndale)-I probably won't get many arguments on this. Great burgers, but maybe to close to the source.

Wal Mart in Eureka?

2011-07-16T09:35:00.000-07:00

Next thing you know and we will have a Home Depot too. I am not a big fan of either because of their history of how they treat employees. But I am sure that if Wal Mart opens a store in the Bayshore Mall, they will have huge crowds shopping there. Why do I think that? I remember when they opened the K-Mart on Broadway and it was packed for years! Kind of funny thinking about it now since they have slowed down since other stores have opened such as Big Box Costco and Target. It will be interesting to see the communities reaction if the rumor has legs.

Longtime hoops tourney organizer Gunnerson dies

2011-07-14T13:18:00.000-07:00

Arman Gunnerson desired nothing more than to make a difference in the lives of young people. He achieved this lofty goal many times over. Gunnerson devoted himself to the Crescent City Jaycees 8th Grade Basketball Tournament, which has become a major annual event since its inception in 1968. He died Tuesday morning at Sutter Coast Hospital due to complications from a stroke he suffered last month. He was 74.

Arman contacted me nearly 20 years ago and approached me about holding an 8th grade Basketball Tournament for small schools in Humboldt County. He was a quite, calm mega organizer and just nice guy. I had been coach at Peninsula School in Samoa for awhile and had been trying to build the program worthy of playing in the Crescent City tournament, which hosts 56 of the top teams from all over California and Oregon. So for years Peninsula (Robin and I directing.)hosted the small teams qualifier's and Arman would be in the stands scouting teams to invite. Peninsula stopped hosting when I went to work on the road for the union. I continued coaching Peninsula later until there were not enough kids to field a team.

Arman. You done well. May you receive God's reward.

Top Breakfast Places in Eureka. Past and present.

2011-07-07T10:09:00.000-07:00

I sure miss some of the closed places to eat breakfast. I loved Bev's, Bettie Mae's, Eureka Truck Terminal, Stanton's and Carl's Diner. And there has not been many to replace them with a huge greasy cholesterol filled menu. But here is my take of the best right now:

10. Waterfront Cafe- Nice view!
9. Cutten Inn- The "Bomber" biscuit and gravy special.
8. Amiga's Burrito- Their Breakfast Burrito is really good!
7. Marie Calendar's- Been having $4.99 special for months!
6. The Double AA- Bar type atmosphere.
5. The Chalet House of Omelette's- Been around for quite sometime. If you are into omelette's, this is your place.
4. Amy's Delight- On Harris. Across from Fig's.
3. Mama's Kitchen- My buddy Perry's favorite.
2. Adel's- Nice clean place with pleasant workers.
1. Kristina's- Consistent and I suggest the Mexicana omelet, but they have a $6.99 steak and eggs that is really good too. Waitresses are really friendly.

July 4th, 2011. Nearly 50% of Americans do not have pot to piss in.

2011-07-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

A new study by the National Bureau of Economic Research shows 50% of Americans would struggle to come up with $2,000 in a pinch, for example in the event of an unanticipated car or home repair, a large medical bill or legal expenses. This is not a good sign for our economy if that many people are on the brink of a financial catastrophe. It makes me wonder just how many in Humboldt County are at this threshold. Working poor? More like working broke.

Bass vs. Neely for Congress?

2011-06-21T11:23:00.000-07:00

This could actually happen if 1st District Congressman Mike Thompson is redistricted to the valley. Talks have been ongoing and don't be shocked if it comes true. I would think with Bonnie's ties all over the coastal counties would make her a very viable candidate. In the past she ran for the 1st District Assembly Seat as a Republican in the primaries in the 90's. Both Virginia and Bonnie have proven they can raise tons of money, and that is what this race will take.

Already officially announcing an exploratory committee is 6th District Assemblyman Jared Huffman who will be termed out in 2012 and needs a job. He is set to raise $500,000 for this race and is the early front runner. Although I bet less than 5% in Del Norte and Humboldt County knows who he is. 2nd District State Senator Noreen Evans is also rumored to be in the mix but says it is way to early to speculate. Radical author and true Democratic "progressive" Norman Solomon is also planning to run. This race could be crazy good!

Crazy Humboldt Traffic observations. Some Round Abouts good, some bad.

2011-06-19T11:28:00.000-07:00

The other day I was travelling east bound on Seventh street in Eureka with no traffic. I was going maybe 25 MPH. I had a green light entering Hst and I noticed a car going around 50 just run the stop sign and just missed my car after I stomped on it and swerved! I have no idea what was on their mind, but obviously it was not driving! It got me to thinking about traffic in Humboldt. Why is it that there is no stop sign at Henderson and Spring by Winco? People fly down that hill and there seems to much foot traffic trying to cross the road. And whose Idea was it to put a stop light on Samoa Blvd. and Kst in Arcata. The stop signs worked fine before, but I am always running into a red light with no cross traffic! Does anyone really have their lights on or go 50 MPH between Arcata and Eureka? Not many I have seen!

Round Abouts are a great traffic calming tool, but that bastardized version at Guintoli Lane in Arcata has had the opposite affect of calming, it causes gridlock. The Round About at Samoa Blvd. and Union St near the CHP station is a good example of helping traffic. Now if we could educate drivers on how to use them properly. That is a yield sign, not stop sign if no one is in the Round About! Yee! I will shut up now.

Samoa Peninsula Fire District 2nd Annual Perch'n on the Peninsula

2011-06-09T16:05:00.000-07:00

Surfperch Fishing Tournament and Pasta Feed Fundraiser on July 30th 2010 at Peninsula Elementary School Tournament Entry Fee - $20.00 per person.

All Tournament Participants must Register and Agree to the Waiver of Liability Terms prior to going fishing!

When: Fishing begins at sunrise, Check-in deadline is 3pm, Pasta Feed Begins at Noon, Awards and Raffle begins at 3:30pm, and Silent Auction closes at 4pm.

Where: Peninsula Elementary School, 909 Vance Ave. Samoa, CA. (Directly across the street from the Samoa Cookhouse).

Tournament Entry Registration: Pre-register at Mad River Tackle, Pacific Outfitters, Englund Marine or by contacting Ben Smith (707-601-0375) or Charlie Holthaus (707-499-7088). Tournament day registration will be available at the Peninsula Elementary School from 6 am to 10 am.

Tournament Registration Includes: One (1) Entry into Door Prize Raffle* and Admission to Pasta Feed Fundraiser ($5.00 value).

*Door Prize Raffle is Limited to Tournament Participants Only-Door Prize Raffle Tickets will be supplied at time of Check-in.

Tournament Cash Prizes:

-Junior Category (Under 16 years old) -5% of entry proceeds awarded for largest single fish (10 Participants =$10 prize, 100 Participants = $100 prize).
-Senior Category (16 years old and older) -5% of entry proceeds awarded for largest single fish (10 Participants =$10 prize, 100 Participants = $100 prize).

Tournament Judging: Fish will be judged by Total Length.

NOT INTO FISHING? JOIN US FOR THE PASTA FEED FUNDRAISER!
Many quality Raffle Prizes and Silent Auction Items donated by local sponsors will be available*
*DO NOT NEED TO BE PRESENT TO WIN!

Pasta Feed Fundraiser Admission: $5.00 Per Person (Free for Children under 6 and Fishing Tournament Participants).

Tournament Logo Tee Shirts: $15 (limited number available, get yours while supplies last)

Please Be Safe!
Do Not Take Unnecessary Risks!
Be Aware of Ocean Conditions and Plan Accordingly
Call 707-443-7062 for Current Weather Conditions

Tournament Rules:

1. All California Department of Fish and Game Ocean Sport Fishing Regulations shall apply. -As per DFG regulation, the minimum size for Redtail surfperch is 10.5 inches, any sub-legal fish will not be accepted.
-All adult anglers over the age of 16 must possess a current California Sport Fishing License.

2. You must fish on the day of the tournament, any fish caught before the day of the tournament will not be accepted. You must check in by 3pm, Late arrivals will not be accepted.

3. Only Surfperch in the family Embiotocidae are eligible, any other fish species will not be accepted. Any frozen, freezer burned, undersized or manipulated fish will not be accepted. All fish will be measured by tournament staff. All measurements by tournament staff are final. If there is a tie for largest fish, the prize money will be split evenly between all tied anglers.

4. You may fish anywhere you want within ocean waters (Humboldt Bay is considered ocean waters, river mouths and estuaries are not considered ocean waters), as per DFG regulation.

5. Samoa Peninsula Fire District volunteers and Board members are NOT eligible to participate in the Tournament.

6. All Participants shall read and agree to the Waiver of Liability Terms prior to participating in the Tournament. All Participants shall supply their Name, Phone Number, Signature and Date on the Tournament Entry Form at the time of Registration as acceptance of the Waiver of Liability Terms. Minors (under 18 years old) shall have a responsible parent or guardian sign on their behalf. Tournament Entries are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Drinking and driving reality. How much is too much to drive?

2011-05-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

I had heard commercials before this weekend that Fortuna police would be out in force looking for drivers who were impaired by alcohol. I warned some people over this while at a softball tournament in Fortuna where beer and softball go hand in hand. And you know that some of the people leaving had a few beers. Recently retired NBA player Jalon Rose was picked up for a DUI. Police figure he had 12 martinis and he blew a .088 at the sight he was taken in to custody. He was almost legal even though he drank how much? So I went on the Police Notebook and checked out their Blood Alcohol Content Calculator to see how much a guy my size (210lbs) could drink in 2 hours and still be legal to drive. 6 Screwdrivers, 5 Margaritas, a six pack of beer or 6 glasses of wine! So how much booze are those people drinking when they are popped for a DUI? Kind of scary to think someone would drink that much and then get behind the wheel!

Best fries around town?

2011-05-25T14:41:00.000-07:00

Maybe not that important to most, but I want decent fries to augment my burger meal. Wendy's has been pushing new fries, so I had to try. Not to bad. But around Eureka I would have to say these places are best.

10.Jack in the Box-Do people in Eureka really eat at this one?
9. Fresh Freeze-If they are not limp.
8. Burger King-Not that bad if you use the onion dipping sauce.
7. Wendy's
6. AA-Steak sized.
5. Marina Cafe-Fish Fry.
4. Sizzler-With the all you can eat shrimp of course.
3. Lost Coast Brewery-Seasoned or plain.
2. Mike's Hamburger King- Garlic Fries. Grease and all!
1. McDonald's-Don't know what separates them, but they are the best.

And take notice. No Buffets mentioned!

Top 20 most missed Restaurants of Humboldt by Marks.

2011-05-14T14:11:00.000-07:00

(Whalers Inn was #11)
Sometimes I get nostalgic about some of my most missed places to eat and I thought I would share some and why. You can see I am all over the board as far as cuisine and setting. Some of these are being revisited.

20. Lazio’s: They had the best fries believe it or not. Used to buy some while fishing for Perch and Smelt off the dock.

19. Eureka Inn: Used to be classy place for meal. Not that great of food, but I have pleasant memories family wise.

18. Enrico’s: Used to live within a block and had many sandwiches and specialty beers from here.

17. Deb’s: Liked the greasy burgers!

16. Kings Table: I have fond memories with the kids.

15. Lila’s Taco Shop: The Garbage burrito was the best!

14. Stanton’s: No more wood’s boss!

13. Volpi’s: Best view of all past eating places.

12. A & W: For whatever reason, I loved the mashed potato fries. Oh, and the bacon bits on the burgers.

11. Whaler’s Inn: Didn’t get enough chances to eat here. Usually saved for special times.

10. Betty Mae’s/Bev’s Cafe: Where or where can you get those portions for breakfast!

9. Arctic Circle: Now we will never no the answer to the “Secret Sauce.” My niece's Erica and Jessica from Sacramento lament this the most.

8. OH’s Hamburger King: For those of you who remember, great dogs and onion rings.

7. Verla’s/Tom’s Sourdough: Both places hold great teenager memories. I was once accused of throwing a stink bomb down the chimney and was kicked out “forever.” Ah, good times. (No, I didn’t do it.)

6. Shakey’s/Andy’s Prosperous Pizza: They had a great buffet and was a great post game place to gather for softball!

5. Dennis and Jerry’s: Great place to go before or after Mrytlewood Lounge.

4. OH’s Townhouse: Best Prime rib in the County. Never matched.

3. Jalisco’s: I so miss their buffet. Great mild salsa.

2. Michael’s: My wife’s #1. We went many times with our friends Liz and Loren for the Steak and Fettuccine special

1. Shanghai Low: Never have found replacement for the won tons or the prawns. I also liked the almond chicken chow mien. Miss the kids playing with the juke boxes at the table. Last union restaurant in Eureka.

Need any meeting seats?

2011-05-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

I am getting rid of some meeting seats that are kinda like stadium seats that we had in our union hall. If you are interested, they are outside at 1720 Victor Blvd. in Manila. Come on by and help yourself! (If not by Saturday, I will be hauling off to the dump.)

Osama dead. Let's close Guantanamo Bay Prison.

2011-05-02T12:09:00.000-07:00

Lets get out of Iraq. Let's get out of Afghanistan. Let's dismantle Guantanamo Bay. (Pictured Detainees upon arrival at Camp X-Ray, January 2002)

Humboldt County Tourist Destination

2011-04-28T16:50:00.000-07:00

Robin and I were having breakfast at the Cookhouse the other day and a couple of women came and sat near us. They had come from Marin County just to visit Lost Coast Brewery! I sure hope they tried the IPA. That is my favorite!

"He is risen!" But why all the paganism?

2011-04-24T13:06:00.000-07:00

I was surprised to see that both the Times Standard and the San Francisco Chronicle had no reference on their front pages about today being recognized as Easter. Whatever your beliefs are, this is still primarily a Christian Country. 76% of the country claims to be Christian so you would think there would be more made of the day. Anyways, Happy Easter!

Who won the GPU war? Round and round.

2011-04-13T14:15:00.000-07:00

I went to yesterdays Board of Supervisors (BOS) meeting to catch all the hubbub surrounding the General Plan Update since it is on the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District agenda for Thursday night. The public comments were pretty amicable and calm for the most part. With seemly so much at stake for each political side (developers vs. inclusionary zoning/Plan A fans) it wasn't a huge war.

Once the item was taken on by the BOS things spun round and round with no Supervisor coming up with a concise motion. Jimmy Smith tried to bring forth a motion for a Select Committee but was left on an island with no real other input with the process. Supervisor Clif Clendenen made it clear he was not supporting anything to slow the GPU process. Chairman Mark Lovelace did a good job at trying to frame all options without stumping for his own views. Very impressive. The BOS made the decision to stay the course and have staff look into creating a Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC).

When the dust settled, who actually was the winner here? Obviously the people who wanted the process to continue full steam ahead. Kirk Girard and his staff came out looking better than he had going in, so he was a winner. Mark Lovelace taking control of the process and helping pull off a 5-0 vote no one was expecting puts him on pretty high ground. I guess I would have to say the losers were the development crowd. This must hurt the Boogie man syndrome that certain Supervisors are lock stock and barrel in political corners. Or maybe they just missed the memo.

Should I expose or out Heraldo?

2011-04-08T09:28:00.000-07:00

I have been sitting on this for awhile. I was just wondering what you all think. Should I identify this anonymous hater, or let the prog machine just keep preaching to hugely minority fringe left?

Eureka Softball Sign-ups April 13th. Need a sponsor?

2011-04-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

The City of Eureka is holding a managers meeting for adult men's and women's softball teams April 13th at the Adorni Center. 6pm for the women and 6:30pm for the men. So if you want to play ball in Eureka, here is your chance! And if you are a Eureka based team in need of a sponsor, please call 445-3432 and I will help you with that. So what is stopping you?

(Thanks to all the Eureka City Council for their unanimous vote to re-instate the adult sports programs!)

Sign-ups for Mad River Softball Association Spring League!

2011-03-30T14:26:00.000-07:00

The Mad River Softball Association is hosting a Sunday Spring Softball League in Arcata starting May 1st and running through June 19th. Teams will play a double header each Sunday for a total of 14 games and then the top 6 teams will go into a playoff on Saturday June 25th. Cost will be $575 determined by amount of participants. Teams must commit by April 25th. Players without a team can call and be put in pool for free agent teams. Players must be 16 years of age or older. For more information contact Richard Marks at 445-3432 or email Samoafog@aol.com.

Gas 54 cents less 100 miles south! Who is Gouging who! Investigative Reporters to action!

2011-03-26T21:17:00.000-07:00

I have been vacationing and traveling by auto from Eureka to Phoenix this last week and on my way back I gassed up in Willits. I paid $3.63.9 per gallon. When I entered Eureka, I saw the first station coming into town sold gas for $4.17.9 per gallon, and per our gas price history, the prices varied only 2 cents all the way through town. Every town all over the west coast I have traveled, the prices vary at least 15cents. Why not Eureka?

Oh yes, I have seen the local media reports that let us know we have the highest prices in the contiguous states and yet I see no explanation why.
I am challenging all local Northern Humboldt press! Times Standard, North Coast Journal, Arcata Eye, McKinleyville Press and how about you two, John Matthews and Hank Simms of Lost Coast Communications!

Who is screwing the general public when it comes to the gas gouging we are subjected to in Humboldt County for years?

Let me give a few observations or questions that others can add or explain:

Is this problem to be dropped on the gas station/convenience stores? Is the price they charge based on gas profit margin or food products margin?

Is this really a supply and demand issue and we are so far removed from the rest of civilization that the suppliers can justify the prices?

Why won’t a supplier that can deliver gas that can be sold for $3.63.9 a gallon in Willits go ahead and drive that 4,000 gallons to Humboldt County for $2,160 more when it would only cost about $1,000 for delivery?

Just why is it so much cheaper to deliver gas to all points all over the United States? Why are we number #1?

I can pretty much guarantee you press people that the following local issues in Humboldt County take a back seat to any of the gas price concerns, so quit reporting on these until you give us gas gouging answers:

1. The Marina Center.
2. Jefferson Elementary School.
3. Ridgewood Development.
4. Humboldt County General Plan.
5. Medical Marijuana.

Now get going!

Former Humboldt County resident sightings!

2011-03-23T10:42:00.000-07:00

Robin and I went to Goodyear yesterday and watched the Reds against the A's. The A's won. Coco Crisp looks good, and Brett Anderson looks ready to pitch opening day. Red's Reliever Chapman was dealing though. Robin and I were sitting behind scouts right behind home plate with radar guns and Chapman was throwing 100 mph!

Saw former Arcata high sport stars Bob Mcrea and Jeff Menefee. Bob is living in Sparks and Jeff in Redding. Bob loves the Reno area and says he does not miss the mold. Bob has played no softball for 7 years now. Still probably has hundreds of more Home Runs than most.

Robin and I are staying at the base of the Camelback Mountain a few blocks away from downtown Scottsdale.

Rain following Samoasoftball!

2011-03-22T08:59:00.000-07:00

Robin and I started our yearly trip to Arizona and drove in the rain Friday, lousy weather to Palm Springs on Saturday, car overheated on way to Phoenix......blah blah. Yesterday was the topper. We were watching the Giants and Rockies in Scottsdale and....were rained out. Looks good today though.

Call out for CO-ED Softball players! Eureka City Hall 6pm!

2011-03-15T11:40:00.000-07:00

The Eureka City Council will be deciding tonight on whether to reinstate the adult softball program. City staff is recommending a 28% increase in fees to cover costs. There is no plan at this time to include CO-ED softball. So I am asking all players who are interested in Softball to show up tonight at Eureka City Hall 531 K st at 6pm and when the subject comes up for softball, say your comments!

Tsunami affects on Humboldt Bay.

2011-03-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District CEO David Hull said there was no significant damage to Humboldt Bay but neighboring harbors in Brookings, Crescent City and Noyo all reported extensive damage. Crescent City and Brookings are so severely damaged that we are now receiving approximately 38 vessels from those ports at Humboldt Bay.

David complemented the Humboldt District staff on doing a great job today of implementing our emergency operations procedures and working with the vessels from other ports. They worked from about 1am until the advisories were called off.

David reported an interesting experience today as the bay experienced water level fluctuations of as much as 5’ over a 10 minute period and a complete “tide” cycle in as little as 20 minutes. This cycle was repeated approximately 10 times between 8AM and 5PM. Interesting information.

(The photos are before and after of Banda Aceh Shore, Indonesia.)

Railbanking or Trains. Not both. 9,420 sign up to support Eel River trail.

2011-03-09T16:18:00.000-08:00

The North Coast Rail Authority (NCRA) met at the Humboldt County Supervisors Chambers today. Let me quickly summarize what went on.

When public comments started on subject not on the agenda, Environmental Protection Information Center Executive Director Scott Greacen let the NCRA Board know that he was not happy with the lack of transparency that he felt was lacking from staff. He outlined his grievances. Others thanked the board for showing up to Humboldt.

Discussion on whether to allow the Timber Heritage Association (THA) to have it's speeder on usable NCRA track for Samoa to Manila runs and Eureka runs for the Jazz festival and Blue's by the Bay became convoluted over liability issues and questions over the THA's motive for running the speeder. After much discussion, the board voted to allow the continued running of the speeder.

When discussion turned to Rail banking, Eel River Trails Association leader Chris Weston announced that he has signatures of 9,420 people who support the project of Railbanking and using the Eel River canyon as a trail! 6,000 of those signatures are from Humboldt County. He gave out his phone number and went around lobbying critics around the room after his three minutes. Many spoke in favor of the trail and trains in the future. Some landowner discussed the problems of people having access to their properties and the trash, environment and safety concerns.

Some confusion happened after Arcata City Councilperson Alex Stillman brought forward a letter (As did Arcata Councilperson Shane Brinton) to the NCRA about their Arcata to Bracut Rails & Trails project. It seems neither the NCRA Board or Legal Staff could agree on the definition of a proper Railbank. It seems the board felt it was an either or and never a combination of the two. That would once more cause a split in the community and have people having to take sides. Both Stillman and Brinton said they were pro-rail and wanted railroad rights protected for the future, but were open for railnaking discussion.

Sounds like the NCRA Board and Staff need to go back to the drawing board on this issue.

Gas goes over $4 a gallon in Eureka. Because of Egypt and Libya? MY BUTTOCKS!

2011-03-03T10:24:00.000-08:00

Help me understand this. Our largest supplier of oil is Canada, by a long shot. Between Canada, Mexico and Venezuela we receive over 40% of all our imported oil. We buy very little oil from Egypt (Ranked 31st of Suppliers to US) and Libya (Ranked 20th of Suppliers to US). Less than 1% of our total! So if we took both off the list all together, shouldn't we just have a 1% increase in gas prices instead of 10%? Are they just used as an excuse for these inflated gas prices? Even as screwed up as Iraq is, they supply 5% of our oil supply. Someone please explain coherently.

Humboldt State Basketball Coach Steve Kinder on the way out?

2011-02-28T14:30:00.000-08:00

Really. What can Steve do for an encore? His team is ranked 3rd in the country with a 24-2 record. (Actually ranked Number 1 in one computer ranking poll.) They will probably win a few more and be considered one of the top HSU teams of all time!

I really feel that Steve should see if there is a chance for him to be considered for a Division 1 offer. This is not to dis on HSU. It is just that Kinder should maximize his potential and he is topped out here. I watched this team early in the season and just am blown away at how good they have become as the season has progressed. And the players that have been recruited in the past by Steve such as Mark White, Fred Hooks, Austin Nichols, Cy Vandermeer, Jeremiah Ward, Grayson Moyer, Devin Peal, Kevin Johnson and Zac Tiedeman speaks in volumes of his eye for top rated talent.

I have also played Adult Basketball against Kinder and he knows how to exploit a players weakness on the court. Oh, and this is not some ploy for me to get him to move away. I really like the guy and appreciate his willingness to show up to local High School games, even though there really isn't any local players that could compete on the HSU level.

Now CR on the other hand......they need to recruit Humboldt's best so we have something to watch out there.

American workers want unions! Even the Starbuck people.

2011-02-24T15:33:00.000-08:00

Americans strongly oppose laws taking away the collective bargaining power of public employee unions, according to a new Gallup Poll. The poll found 61% would oppose a law in their state similar to such a proposal in Wisconsin, compared with 33% who would favor such a law.

So why are the Republican governors in Ohio, New Jersey, Indiana, Iowa and other states considering similar laws? Got me. This will come back to haunt them.

And while we are on the subject of people wanting to organize, many Starbuck employees have been in the process of organizing through the Industrial Workers of the World. (IWW the Wobblies)

Eureka adult softball needs your help!

2011-02-21T09:41:00.000-08:00

I have been approached by many in the community about the plight of adult softball in Eureka. With the passing of Measure O, there is a fleeting chance at having adult softball again in Eureka. It just has to be self sufficient. But you can't just sit on the sidelines and belly ache! (Or dugouts if you will) Call your elected City Council People and let them know you would like to see Eureka City Adult Softball leagues brought back.
Ward 1 Councilperson Marian Brady @ 441-4169.
Ward 2 Councilperson Linda Atkins @ 441-4168.
Ward 3 Councilperson Mike Newman @ 441-4170.
Ward 4 Councilperson Melinda Ciarabellini @ 441-4167.
Ward 5 Councilperson Lance Madsen @ 441-4171.
Mayor Frank Jager @ 441-4200.

Just leave a message if they are not there!

If you have the itch to start playing in the near future, the Mad River Softball Association is hosting a "Spring" league of either mens or co-ed league starting in April. League games are on Sundays, and teams play double headers at the Arcata Sports Complex. The nicest natural playing fields in all of Northern California. Our regular season starts on June 13th.

Fall River the McKinleyville of Shasta county?

2011-02-15T12:21:00.000-08:00

Shasta County Planning Commissioners want to rezone areas of Burney, Cottonwood and Fall River Mills to create more high-density housing for very low-income families.

Residents in Fall River are up in arms over having low-income families and the perceived rise in crime. And the possibility of devaluing property values is a big concern. Residents were also concerned about little notification of the process.

There is a need for 970 low-income units to keep with updating Shasta Counties General plan. The county is about 800 units short.

Kinda sound familiar?

Ecohostel in Cookhouse? Samoa Peninsula Fire District to Morph into Community Service District?

2011-02-10T10:26:00.000-08:00

It looks like this will happen within the next year or so. The town of Samoa will become a Community Service District through reorganization of the Samoa Peninsula Fire District. The attic of the Samoa Cookhouse is being remodeled through "green" processes and will become an "Ecohostel." The old fire department gathering hall by the Cookhouse will also become a "Ecohostel" with a "green" themed RV Park. I will update as I learn more.

Shasta County #2 in State Prison Population per 1,000. Humboldt #27.

2011-01-31T15:37:00.000-08:00

I really don't know what to make of the numbers. Either the Shasta County DA's office is doing a better job at putting people away, or they are over prosecuting offenders. But neighboring counties Tehama and Butte are also in the top ten in the state. Hmmm. And why is it that Humboldt County has more Violent offenses per 100,000 than Shasta? (413 to 293) And Humboldt has more Drug offenses per 100,000? (579 to 308) And yet we have less people behind bars? Could someone explain what this all means?

David Elsebusch predicts Mark Lovelace, Jimmy Smith and Clif Clendenen voted out 2012.

2011-01-26T16:15:00.000-08:00

This happened at yesterday's Board of Supervisors meeting during public comments concerning the appointment of a reluctant Bruce Emad for an at large position on the Humboldt County Planning Commission. The 3 voted to ignore 19 applicants for the position. This will make for some political fall out, but I am not so sure there will be a tidal wave of animosity. David and his wife Penny won't have a big say in this. They both live in 5th District Supervisor Sundberg's district.

Union Membership takes a thumping.

2011-01-21T14:47:00.000-08:00

If the US economy wasn't bad enough already, union membership is down to 11.9%. According to the Department of Labor there was a net loss of 612,000 union members last year. In the early 1980's, union membership was over 20%! And the future is not looking much brighter. Only 4.3% of the workers between the age of 16 and 24 years of age are union! And a real glaring reality is this; 36.2% of all union members are in the public sector. Only 6.9% of the private sector is union! Most of this is because of the uneven playing field for corporations to ignore the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) and the constraints in organizing through the ineffectiveness of the National Labor Relations Board upholding the bylaws and spirit of the NLRA. (I have stories galore on this while I was organizing.)

And it is not like people not wanting to be union. Over 50% of the current US workforce would like to be union. And why not. The average union worker makes $917 a week as compared to $717 a week for non-union workers.

But lets bring this closer to home. In the 1990's there were around 500 private sector union jobs on the Samoa Peninsula alone! Now there is less than 10. I know I have spewed much of this in the past. Just like to bring this up every now and then.

Humboldt County Basketball musings.

2011-01-18T21:59:00.000-08:00

Robin and I went to McKinleyville High School to watch the Panthers face off against the Arcata Tigers. We have watched enough Arcata games this year to have expected a huge Arcata win. (The last player I coached in 8th grade basketball still playing High School is junior Matt Gulley for the Tigers. He was fun to coach and he loved my "never seen a shot I didn't like" philosophy. MHS out hustled and played tough defense to take down a team with way superior height. Tom Witzel was the only Tiger in double figures with 24 points. (Matt had 6) I have to hand it to McKinleyville. They went right at Arcata's front line that is 6'10", 6'6" and 6'6" across in the front court. The Tigers are still looking for that on the court leader that will take control. But they still will win the league.

(Dan Squire and Christian Hill do a great job on 106.3 KJNY if you just want to listen. Their post game is great!)

Fortuna High is playing Nate Ambrosini, a Freshman, at point guard. He scored 19 points the other day. Has any other Humboldt County High School Freshman ever scored that many on a Varsity squad? They have another Freshman playing. They will be tough in 2 years.

Robin and I went to a CR men's game recently and I remarked that there were less local players than I have ever remembered. (There is one.) She said to me, "if there were ever less, there would be none!" Maybe that explains the small crowd.

Robin and I went an HSU men's game early this year and I was just not that impressed. I felt they would be a .500 team compared to last years squad. I have been pleasantly wrong. I also witnessed Coach Steve Kinder and all of his staff at a recent High School game. I realize there is not much chance for any of these players to be able to play for the Jacks, but it is classy that they are there.

Kentucky Fried Chicken leaving Eureka?

2011-01-16T17:32:00.000-08:00

I have heard from one of my grubbing buddies that the 2 Eureka KFC's are shutting down. SAY IT AIN'T SO! They had a good buffet on Broadway, but usually went to the one on the Burre Center.

Humboldt County Democrats morphing into "Progressive" Club? New Eureka Progressive Democratic Club.

2011-01-10T13:55:00.000-08:00

A New Eureka Democratic Club called the “Eureka Progressive Democratic Club” will be meeting Thursday, January 27th at 7pm at the Humboldt County Democratic Headquarters, 129 5th St. in Eureka.

I find it kind of strange that there is a need for a “progressive” branch locally. Why? Let me outline a few reasons. First, let us compare the “Progressive Democrats of America (PDA)” platform with the “Humboldt County Democratic Central Committee (HCDCC).”

1. The PDA would like to stop War Occupations. The HCDCC platform on this issue is:

I. Democracy and ParticipationWe believe that...B. The United States must work cooperatively with all other nations of the world, treat all people with human dignity, and use force only as an absolute last resort.

So they are in agreement.

2. The PDA believes in Healthcare for All with Economic and Social Justice. The HCDCC platform on these issues are:

II. Social Justice

Everyone in our democracy is entitled to equal protection under the law regardless of race, gender, ethnic identification, age, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, and/or socioeconomic status.

A. Everyone has a right to live in a community, state and country that enables all to exercise their rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
B. Everyone has a right to access to affordable health care.
C. Every woman is entitled to the right to make her own reproductive health care decisions.
D. Every person has the right to make her or his own health care decisions.
E. Everyone has an inherent constitutional right to protection from invasion of privacy, by government or corporations.

Again, in alignment with each other.

3. The PDA is concerned about global warming and the environment. The HCDCC platform on this issue is:

III. Environmental Protection

We believe that it is the duty of our democracy to...
• Protect and sustainably use the natural resources of our community, state, country, and world.
• Guarantee safe and healthy food, water and air.
• Enact legislation and policies that promote sustainable forms of energy and the conservation of fossil fuels.
• Protect, preserve and restore the Nation’s ecosystems.
• Prevent resource exploitation that violates public trust.
• Reduce, reuse and recycle.

Once again the PDA and HCDCC are joined.

As far as economics, I am sure the PDA would be good with the HCDCC on the economy.

IV. Economics

We believe that it is the duty of our democracy to ensure that...

• Jobs provide a living wage.
• Legislation and policies encourage the creation of jobs that contribute to a sustainable economy and environment.
• All local, state, and federal governments and agencies of government are fiscally responsible.
• Legislation and policies promote the availability of affordable, safe housing for all.
• The deficit of the federal government is not passed on to the next generation.
• The deficit of the federal government is decreased without shrinking programs that benefit the poor, young, old or disabled.
• Fair taxation for all where all members of society pay their fair share toward the common good.
• Workers’ pensions and social security are protected and strengthened.
• All levels of government work diligently to see that no child, senior citizen or disabled person lives in poverty.

So why the need of a “progressive” chapter of the HCDCC? It is all is about the elephant in the room. The Marina Center. There. I said it. If you are for any kind of development on the Balloon tract/track you are considered an outcast to the far left liberals on the HCDCC. And now those who disagree with their “fellow democrats” want to isolate themselves further with creation of this separate Political Action Committee branch of the HCDCC. Even though both types of Democrats agree with all of the HCDCC platforms! Just sad we have to be so divided as a community of Democrats. Next meeting of the HCDCC is this Wednesday at 7pm across from Denny’s in Eureka. All Democrats are welcome. Even you with the Marina Center sweaters. We are the party of tolerance, are we not?

Melinda Ciarabellini new Ward 4 Eureka City Councilperson. First time Eureka has 3 Democrat Women on Council?

2011-01-04T17:21:00.000-08:00

Rex Bohn gave a very classy/gracious speech about the nomination process and the choice of Melinda to the Eureka City Council. Then Linda Atkins moved for approval and a 4-0 vote sealed the deal. I know there has been 3 women on the Eureka City Council in the past, but 3 registered Democrats? Gutsy choice by Mayor Jager.

Marks unwritten rules of life.

2011-01-01T13:24:00.000-08:00

I am sure you have heard the unwritten rule of life not drinking alcohol before noon, but what other rules of life do we have? Here is my top ten. I am sure some will not even make sense to some of you:

10. Yes. You will always pick the slowest lines at Costco, the slowest moving traffic lanes and the wrong time to do banking.

9. Never eat chicken before 11am. Unless you are having eggs.

8. Never sell a car to family or friends. Period.

7. You are not where you live, what you drive, or what you wear. (But others will judge you by these.)

6. Never give your adversaries the tools of your own demise.

5. A line of credit does not equal savings.

4. Chances are, those unruly kids coming through the restaurant doors are going to be seated next to you. Every time!

3. We all dine at the table of the consequences of our decisions. Choose from the menu wisely.

2. Before you criticize, analyze. Then have at it.

1. If you wait for someone else to take action, expect disappointment.

And yours?

Major Marks was part of the Humboldt Solution!

2010-12-22T19:45:00.000-08:00

My dad decided to relocate us to Humboldt County after his retirement from the service. There is a story behind this that is really crazy and I am going to fill you all in with bits and pieces. Unless my family throws a fit.

What happened to Bus Shelter?

2010-12-13T11:36:00.000-08:00

I noticed that the shelter for the bus stop at 4th and Q St. is gone. (Across the street from Big Louie's pizza) Was it ran into by a car? Or just removed for another reason?

Hoopa Valley hands Sundberg Supervisor seat.

2010-12-03T12:14:00.000-08:00

Take away the votes from the Hoopa valley precincts, Pat Cleary wins the 5th District Supervisor seat by nearly 200 votes! Ryan went from 351 primary election votes in the Valley to 798 in the General! So the Native American vote came up big for a fellow Native American. Next 4 years should be interesting in the 5th.

Richard and Robin do "Date Night." Where is the best Prime Rib? My top picks.

2010-12-02T13:21:00.000-08:00

I asked Robin yesterday if our relationship was in need of a "Date Night" we have heard and witnessed couples doing. She said sure, so I said I wasn't sure yet who I was going to take out on my date. She had a good laugh. We went to Bear River for their Prime Rib night. $15.95! My top Prime Rib picks:

5. Sizzler. The salad bar is good at least.

4. Blue Lake Casino. What is with this change they have going. I don't like it!

3. Adels. Always consistent at least.

2. Bear River Casino. Lots of fixings, but the smoke in the Casino can gag you.

1. Sea Grill. I know their specialty is fish, but right now they are the tops in Humboldt County that I have tried.

Anyone knows of better places out there in the County? We could use another good steak house with Prime Rib at the top of the menu!

"I will have you impeached Mr. Lovelace! No Offense." Qoute by Louie DeMartin. Jill Duffy, "I am tired of these games!" Nomination for CCC 2010.

2010-11-30T12:22:00.000-08:00

Quite the verbiage flying around this morning at the Humboldt County Courthouse Board of Supervisors chamber. It seemed innocent enough on the agenda, "Consider Nominations for the California Coastal Commission North Coast Regional Representative." Only one person had turned in some sort of paperwork to be considered (Mark Lovelace) and there seemed to be a disconnect in distributing information to the correct public entities that was sent from the outgoing Governors office to the County Board of Supervisor clerk. Distribution to solicit other candidates seemed to be missing.

When outgoing 4th District County Supervisor Bonnie Neely made a motion to nominate Lovelace, (Jimmie Smith seconded) outgoing 5th District Supervisor Jill Duffy showed displeasure with the process and said she was tired of the "GAMES" that were being played with the nomination process. She asked Neely to amend here motion to allow other prospective candidates to come forward. Jill also chided Chair Clif Clendenan for not forwarding this information to the two newly elected Supervisors. Neely initially stood pat on her motion and waited for public comment. That is when it became apparent that the public felt the process was being railroaded and undermined by politics. Not one person from the public came forward to speak in favor of Lovelace's nomination. All spoke about the lack of due process in choosing and asked for reconsideration. A reaccuring theme was Lovelace's ties to Humboldt Baykeepers. Mr. Louie DeMartin publically viscerated Mr. Lovelace with a public tirade on how he is the problem with the lack of growth in the county and said it will be a personal crusade of his to get him out of office.

Eureka Mayor and 4th District Supervisor elect Virginia Bass came forward to the podium to express her desire to be considered for the position. Seems to make sense, as she would replace the person she will be replacing in office.

Bonnie Neely relented to Jill's request to nominate Lovelace but to consider others in a future meeting. The motion passed unaimously.

Happy Turkey day, Turkey's!

2010-11-25T15:03:00.000-08:00

Perry Price used to yell at his ball players in all the sports he coached, yelling "Turkey's!" Here is one for you all, "Turkey's!"Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Ranked voting rank?

2010-11-19T09:19:00.000-08:00

SF Gate:

A political candidate who forms coalitions, touts other candidates vying for the same office and brags about being somebody's third choice?

Yes, it could happen - and it's an increasingly likely campaign strategy under the Bay Area's relatively new and somewhat perplexing system of ranked-choice voting, supporters and opponents agree.

The mayor's races in Oakland and San Leandro and two supervisors' races in San Francisco all saw the candidate with the most first-choice votes ultimately lose - demonstrating the traditional campaign style doesn't always work anymore.

"The old style was it's you against me, mano a mano," said Steven Hill, the architect of the local ranked-choice voting system.

"You can now try to build coalitions around these ranked ballots by finding common ground with other opponents."

Under ranked-choice voting - started in San Francisco in 2004 and used in Oakland, Berkeley and San Leandro for the first time this year - voters pick their first, second and third choices.

If nobody wins more than half the vote, last-place candidates are eliminated and their second and third place votes are redistributed until someone wins a majority.

Former state Sen. Don Perata beat Oakland City Councilwoman Jean Quan in first-choice votes for Oakland's mayoral race 35 to 24 percent, but wound up losing by a two-point margin when second- and third-place votes were counted.

In San Leandro, Mayor Tony Santos won the most first-place votes in his bid for re-election, but lost his seat to challenger Stephen Cassidy.

San Francisco's case

Similar scenarios played out in the race for two seats on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Janet Reilly won the first place count in District Two, but new ranked-choice voting tallies released by the Department of Elections on Monday showed Mark Farrell winning the seat.

In District 10, an eye-popping 21 candidates ran for the seat, with Lynette Sweet getting the most first-place votes. However, Malia Cohen, initially far behind, won the seat because she was the second or third choice of voters for many of her fellow candidates.

Hill said these kinds of partnerships between candidates, as well as promoting a fellow candidate or political group's second or third pick, will all become more common.

David Latterman, a political consultant who opposes ranked-choice voting, agreed but said that doesn't mean elections will be all sunshine and rainbows. He said Perata lost in Oakland largely on the "Anybody but Don" mantra of Quan and fellow candidate Rebecca Kaplan.

"They bludgeoned Perata. It was a friend-of-my-enemy thing," Latterman said. "I think you're going to see more second-tier candidates try to team up."

A diluted message

David Lee, a political science lecturer at San Francisco State University, said candidates will try to become the second or third choice of so many challengers, their platform may become diluted.

He gave the example of the San Francisco mayor's race in November, 2011 - the first time ranked-choice voting will be used in a competitive mayors' race in the city.

A straight, white, moderate candidate could try to woo Chinese voters by becoming state Sen. Leland Yee's second choice, woo gay voters by becoming Supervisor Bevan Dufty's second choice, and woo lefties by becoming the second or third choice of a number of progressives expected to enter the race.

"How do you appeal to all those voters in order to earn their second or third choices?" Lee asked. "Who are you at the end of the day?"

Mayor Gavin Newsom said ranked-choice voting "could dramatically change the face of the mayor's race."

And he said that's not necessarily a good thing because voters - including himself - remain confused by the system. He said that as a District Eight voter, he voted for the same candidate for supervisor three times. "Then they said you can't do that," he said of a poll worker.

Corey Cook, a political science professor at the University of San Francisco, said this election season's outcomes will shape ranked-choice voting in the future - perhaps by angering enough people so they try to dismantle it.

"We don't know yet whether it will change the strategy for campaigns or whether this is ultimately going to be the unwinding of the movement," he said. "Both outcomes are possible."

Heather Knight at hknight@sfchronicle.com.

RIP Mark Weatherbee

2010-11-18T10:05:00.000-08:00

Weatherbee born October 30, 1955. Mark passed away unexpectedly due to natural causes in His Favorite Place on earth, Ruth Lake, Ca. Mark graduated From Arcata High School in 1974.

He worked at Louisiana Pacific, and later Mickeys Quality Cars, as automobiles were a great hobbie of his. Although he feared the water, Mark loved fishing, Boating and jet Skiing at Ruth Lake and also loved to hunt and anything else outdoors. He enjoyed staying busy and loved watching movies on his big screen tv. Mark found great joy and fulfillment in teaching his grandkids how to work on cars, hunt, fish, shoot guns and how to drive. Mark was a caring father and grandfather and was always there for them no matter what.

Mark was the kind of man who would and did give u his last 5 dollars and the shirt off of his back and enjoyed seeing others do their best. Mark was a grumpy and stubborn, yet hardworking and compassionate, fun person... This summer was spent with his kids, grandkids and all the other kids who call him Gramps in Ruth Lake and Redding Ca doing what he loved the most... Mark is survived by his mother Dolores Weatherbee of Samoa, Ca. His three daughters, Tiffany Weatherbee, of Redding, Ca. Nicole Weatherbee, Stewart of Redding, Ca., Sarah McCartney of Redding, Ca, his 7 Grandkids, Tyler, Brittany, Mikhayla, Devin, Ariana, Khayden, Tonie. His three brothers Eddie Weatherbee of Samoa, Ca, Bobby Weatherbee of Blue Lake, Ca., Doug Weatherbee of Eureka, Ca. His Sister Peggy Weatherbee of Samoa, Ca Nieces and Nephews Alyssa, Cody, Derek, Amber, Hayli, Sarah, Hannah and Very Dear Friends. Bill Nichols, Rick VanTassel, Tim Monson, Tom Monson, Gary Miller, Mark will be missed by everyone who knew him...

A celebration of life will be held on November 21, 2010 at The Moose Lodge 4328 Campton rd. Eureka, Ca. Starting at noon. For any other information please call Tiffany Weatherbee at 530-524-3450 Please sign the guest book at www.Times-Standard.com, click obits.

Mark was the kind of guy who would tell it like it is, whether you wanted to know or not. He didn't hold back punches. He loved his family. He lived life on his terms, not on the expectations of others. Way to young to go.

HSU Doubleheader.

2010-11-14T14:45:00.000-08:00

HSU was a sports Meca yesterday and Robin and I went to watch Lyndon Rowells and the HSU football Seniors in their season finale. And Lyndon did not disappoint. He broke school records in yards in a season and Touchdowns in a game. And he probably only really played a little over 2 quarters! And gained over 200 yeard in the game.

Then we went to watch the men's basketball team play Bethany University. We had the best tickets I have ever purchased for a HSU game. 1st row right behind the scorers table! Got em for $10 a pop at a political auction. New coach Steve Kinder played his whole bench while Bethany only played a 7 player rotation. One of those was a Freshman player who went to High School at Impact Basketball Academy named Brett Hoisington. Robin and I were talking to each other about this when Bethany brought him in early in the 1st half. And this young kid put up 24 points and played sound fundamental ball. Anyways, HSU has a player named Brandon Sperling that may be their best player, but Kinder has all sorts of options in a deep lineup. Finding the right combination may be his uphill battle. But I think they will be a better than average team. I predict about a 18-10 record and then big things next year.

Post election musings. By Marks!

2010-11-11T15:14:00.000-08:00

When Bonnie went negative during the primaries, I really was worried about what her campaign would come up with for the November general election. I told Virginia and her husband Matt that they needed to hire professional consultant from Sacramento to bring this election home. "We don't want a professional, we want you!" Cute. But I was a nervous campaign chair for the whole summer. Luckily I had a candidate that would willingly walk the district over and over. Grass roots, locally driven making relationships door to door. And there was no way I could do this without Matt's help. And this was while he was working 60 hours plus a week. Hardest worker I know.

The local Democrats could have done a better job in helping their endorsed candidates. The Mailer they did for Kuhnel, Glass and LaValle were the worse by far and had absolutely the worst timing. Right smack dab in between absentee voters and poll voters. They didn't ask for my advice though. They asked me to leave the room during an executive meeting so they could discuss. The $10,000 dollars they sent to the Neely and Cleary ($5,000 each) campaigns was something they should do early in the campaigns, not later. Bonnie may have spent $300,000 this election. Whatever the total finally is, it will establish a record for the ages for Humboldt County politics. And most of it was in very large doses NOT from the 4th District.

I was asked to resign my position on the HCDCC. ("Bullied" actually if you want the truth, during a "Mob" scene at the October general Humboldt County Democratic Central Committee meeting.) If this is the "tolerant" "inclusive" party, I would have to say they need a little work. Larry Glass, Linda Adkins, Ron Kuhnel, Andrew Bird, Peter LaValle, Bob and Pam Service and others asked for my head on a platter for endorsing a "Declined to State" candidate and two moderate Democrats in Eureka. (Mike Newman, Marian Brady and Virginia Bass) Funny that they did not bring me to task when I endorsed and sent money to Green Party candidates in the past. (I do feel bad for Milt Boyd and others on the committee that will have to do my job. I did a lot of grunt work, set up and clean up of events, Recording Secretary, tabling of fairs/registering Democrats, troubleshooting Headquarters Computer and equipment, and other stuff people take for granted.

Past HCDCC chair Patrick Riggs said it best, "It all really comes down to that dirty piece of property by the Bay." It sure did. Loud and clear.

If the Provisional voters turn out to be the key for Gallegos to return to office, then a tip of the hat to Richard Salzman for being the top "on the ground level" campaigner in Humboldt County. And it may have been the North Country Fair that turned the tide. I witnessed him registering and re-registering many young HSU types and having them volunteer for Paul.

Since when are local businesses determined to be "evil developers?" These people who supply jobs and taxes that make our local economy go? Just who are they?

To close, endorsements do not win or lose elections. Or Bonnie would have won in a landslide. Wille Brown said it best, "Have a simple winning message and repeat it over and over." "Time for a Change. Get Hooked on Bass." "It is time to clean up the Marina Center. Join the Brady Bunch." "We need jobs. I am a NEW Man for the job." Laugh, cry or get angry. But don't shoot me, I am just the messenger.

Sheri Woo in on Water Board!

2010-11-08T10:20:00.000-08:00

Sheri Woo was appointed to out going Tera Pruscha's 2nd Division Humboldt Bay Municipal Water District Board seat this morning. Ben Sheppard was the other nominee. Barbara Hecathorn was the only dissenting vote. The 2nd Division district is McKinleyville and Westhaven area.

I went to the meeting to see how the process of appointment would work out and was shocked to see a compromise. Originally the board had been split over each candidate. When the vote was called to question by Aldron Laird, Bruce Rupp said he would like to comment. He outlined how the board had been working together for the good of the community. He pointed out President Kaitlin Sopoci Belknap's actions on the board as one of compromise, when he had first judged her to be a Green Party "bomb throwing" environmentalist. Bruce explained that while he agreed with Ben's basic Capitalistic business entrepreneurship and risk taking model, he would make a decision based on the good of the water district as a whole. He apologized to Ben but voted in favor of Woo. Barbara spoke on her favor of Ben. It was pointed out that Ben had publicly ran for this position so he had a track record of wanting the position.

Ben was very gracious with the decision and complimented the board for their work together. He did point out that the process was not a pleasant experience but he respected their decision.

My opinion: This is a very strong board with very diverse opinions but seem to be good at problem solving and working through their political differences. Good for them.

Bass is new Humboldt County Supervisor 4th District!

2010-11-03T08:14:00.000-07:00

By a landslide. Nuff said.

Top Ten Political signs 2010!

2010-10-27T09:27:00.000-07:00

1. Dave Meserve-All over Arcata you can see these individually painted signs. By far the best signs in Humboldt County.

2. Marian Brady-You might not like the Brady Bunch theme, but you have to admit that those round signs are flashy and well done. Stands to reason. Marian is a graphic arts designer.

3. Alex Stillman-Kind of quirky but it works. The old style theme, or whatever it is, just is kinda mellow.

4. Mike Newman-These signs stick out like a sore thumb! You can't miss them and the little man in the middle is different.

5. Allison Jackson-Very artsy. Nice contrast. Serves Jackson well.

6. Paul Gallegos-Repeat signs that have worked in past. I guess they are thinking, "If it ain't broke, don't mess with it."

7. Xandra Manns-Home made, grass roots, serves Green Party candidate well.

8. Larry Glass-Shouts out like a conservative, but this candidate is way left.

9. Frank Jager-Recycling signs Ala Gallegos, and these colors really force you to look.

10. Ryan Sundberg-I like them and hate them. I don't know why. They are different.

Just missed the list: Bonnie Neely signs. Soft color, and when you can just put your first name on a sign, you have big time name recognition.

Where is Bass on my list you might ask? I wanted the hook in the water but was out numbered, so we went with the red white and blue thing. They are nice, but where's the Hooked on Bass theme?

Why Bonnie keeps going Negative. Where is her union bug?

2010-10-19T10:01:00.000-07:00

If you talk to people individually you will hear a clear message that they hate negative political campaigns. But Bonnie doing negative campaigning is not a big surprise. From recent research he's seen, Democratic pollster Ben Tulchin concluded voters respond more when candidates attack than when they express positive messages. "(Negativity) is working," said Tulchin, a San Francisco strategist who is advising San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom's campaign for lieutenant governor. "The voters are in such a foul mood that, quite frankly, a negative message is working better than a positive message."

According to This Nation: The rule of thumb for professional campaign consultants is: "Never, never use negative campaign tactics unless you have to." Clearly, a candidate that can run an impeccably positive campaign and win by a comfortable margin is much better off running a "clean" campaign than a negative one. However, there are many instances in which a candidate cannot (at least in his or her own estimation) win simply by presenting positive information about him or herself. When candidates struggle in their efforts to build positive images of themselves, many choose to close the gap by tarnishing the images of their opponents.

Neely’s campaign will use negative ads because they know they can use pieces of out-of-context information to scare people into believing what Neely’s campaign wants them to believe.

So obviously, Bonnie does not have a positive message to share and for survival sake has to do negative campaigning libeling her opponent. I sure hope the voters see through this and do the right thing. Vote Bass. .

And just an observation, why has Bonnie Neely’s campaign decided to buy non local and non union? This post card did not carry the union bug. Wonder why?

Pulp Mill Lumberjack story

2010-10-10T10:31:00.000-07:00

Low Tide For Samoa Pulp Mill

By Scottie Lee Meyers

The tide in Humboldt Bay ebbs and flows. Last Monday, when the tide went out, the Samoa pulp mill was open for business. By the time the tide returned, the pulp mill closed for good.

More than 200 of the highest paying jobs in the county are permanently gone. News of the closure heightened concerns over the economic stability of the port and the surrounding community.

The pulp mill began operations in 1964. Since then, six different groups have owned the mill – an indication of how difficult it is to conduct a profitable pulp mill enterprise here on the North Coast.

In a pulp mill, workers manicure wood chips – a waste product of the timber industry – through a long process into pulp, which has the consistency of hot oatmeal. Workers spread the pulp onto 100-foot screens, which then travels on a conveyor belt where it is vacuumed, pressed, chemically treated, and dried into paper. Then they collect the paper into 550-pound, ready-to-ship bales.
Evergreen Pulp Inc., a subsidiary of a Chinese paper manufacturing firm, closed the mill in October 2008, but workers and community members clung to the hope that it would reopen. The mill has been out of commission since. The announcement last Tuesday that the pulp mill will close permanently meant workers let go of all hope, forever.

It was during Evergreen's ownership that some community members began to loathe the pulp mill. Evergreen Pulp racked up over 200 violations. Carol Binder spearheaded the "People Against the Samoa Pulp Mill" blog, a coalition of residents from West Eureka.

Richard Marks, the 4th District Harbor Commissioner, worked at the pulp mill since 1980. Marks understands Binder's point of view. As an employee, Evergreen's environmental stewardship disappointed him. "Our community was basically environmentally raped by Evergreen pulp."

On his blog, Marks says, "In January of 2009, Evergreen owed $463,000 in fines for non-compliance of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels for 2005 to 2007. [In] 2008, Evergreen went over permitted limits 252 times."

Problems with environmental stewardship go back before Evergreen. During previous owner Stockton Pacific's ownership, agents raided the mill because of BOD violations. The Water Board filed a suit for $700,000.
When the pulp mill was in operation, the plume from the stack invariably blew to western Eureka. Back in the 1960s, ‘70s, and ‘80s when sulfur dioxide was prevalent in the plume, the whole area smelled of rotten eggs.

After four years of ownership, Evergreen shut down the plant and "skipped" town, says Marks. A legal battle still looms between the workers and Evergreen. Marks says that Evergreen violated the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act and left hundreds of thousands of dollars in employee medical bills unpaid.

Freshwater Tissue Co. bought the mill for $2.8 million in February 2009 with plans to reopen the mill and rehire the previous workforce – mainly those affiliated with the Association of Western Pulp and Paper Workers (AWPPW) union. Union workers had newfound hope that they would return to work, and 80 percent of them committed to returning.

Freshwater's president, Bob Simpson, initially sought $400 million to convert the pulp mill into an eco-friendly tissue plant.

With no offers, Simpson scaled down the business plan. Freshwater's revised plan was to make eco-friendly pulp and sought $30 million in financing. Freshwater got a 10-year contract for all its production. Still, no one was willing to loan the funds.

"I am disappointed in our failure to restart the pulp mill," says Simpson in a press release. "We exhausted all possible means of funding the project. Unfortunately, [Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation] regulations made it impossible for banks to finance startup projects like ours."

Economic uncertainty surrounds the Humboldt Bay area now that the pulp mill is closed.

David Hull, chief executive officer of the Humboldt Bay Harbor, looks at the harbor as the economic engine to the area. "The pulp mill closing was a big hit for the whole region," says Hull.
Hull estimates the pulp mill brought 24 ships – 700-feet long and 40,000 to 50,000 tons in weight – every year into the bay. Humboldt Bay Harbor collects between $12,000 and $17,000 per pulp mill ship.

Other entities not affiliated with Humboldt Bay Harbor make money on ships too. Tug operators receive money to pilot ships into the bay and to the dock. Longshoremen receive money to tie the ships to the docks and to load and unload cargo. Dock owners receive money to let the ships anchor.

"It could be between $50,000 and $60,000 per ship to the local economy," says Hull. "It really is significant money."

With that much money to gain in ship traffic, the Humboldt Bay Harbor -- a governmental entity --worked with pulp mill owner Bob Simpson and lobbyists in Washington D.C. to revitalize the dormant mill.

The Samoa pulp mill contributed 15 percent of the district's water revenue. Steve Fleisher, former CEO of the mill under Stockon Pacific Enterprises, says, "When they closed and stopped buying water, their portion of the bill basically had to be picked up by the remaining customers. The customers are the cities and services districts who ultimately pass on the costs to their customers. So, our water bills have all gone up."

John Palmquist, district business manager for the Humboldt Bay Municipal Water District, says with the pulp mill now shut down, our water rights are in jeopardy in California's use-it-or-lose-it water policy

Humboldt County Economic Development Coordinator Jaqueline Debets says the economic mentality of Humboldt Bay needs to shift. "It's not so much a port. It's a bay, and it's transitioning because we're changing how we import and export."

Debets feels the lack of transportation arteries in the Humboldt region makes Humboldt Bay unappealing for ships to import. "Once you do get to the land, you're still not close to the market."
Debets predicts Humboldt Bay will do more aquaculture – the farming of fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.

Kurt Hippen was one of 200 employees laid off when Evergreen Pulp shut down two years ago. Hippen put in almost 30 years at the mill, mostly as a carpenter. Now, he has no health insurance. Hippen drove to a health fair last weekend where he could get his blood tested for free.

Hippen enrolled in several classes since being laid off in an effort to gain new job skills and find employment. He is in a water operations course at College of the Redwoods with 20 of his former pulp mill coworkers. Many more wait in line to take the course. Humboldt County's Health and Human Services Employment Training Division offers the classes free to former pulp mill workers.
Since the mill shut down, Hippen became certified as an energy auditor. He also earned solar power, historical building restoration, and electrical wiring credentials. Still, Hippen ca not find permanent employment. "It angered me," says Hippen after receiving an email from the vice president of his union telling him the pulp mill is permanently shut down. "What angers me the most is the fact that 215 people aren't going to have good jobs."

The history of the Samoa Pulp Mill is a microcosm of the decline of California's manufacturing industry. Gino DiCaro, spokesman for California Manufacturers and Technology Association, says that in the past decade, California lost 34 percent of its state industrial base. Businesses move offshore where wage rates, energy costs, taxes, and governmental regulations are more suitable for profit. "California is a very costly place to do business," says DiCaro.

The pulp mill starts to look like an old Chevy that's seen better days. Simpson wishes to recoup his investment by selling parts from the plant. Freshwater has an offer for its power and recovery boiler. Hippen expects Freshwater to sell the turbine, pumps, and tools. Freshwater's plans for the 156-acre site are unknown.

Marks reminisces about the way things used to be in Samoa. His adult sons moved to Sacramento and San Francisco for work. "I wish there was something here for them."

What the freak was that! (A Fisher actually)

2010-10-03T20:03:00.000-07:00

Robin and I were driving down Lord Ellis the other day and I had to slow down to avoid running over a strange animal. This animal was nearly 6' long from tail to snout and nearly took a whole lane and looked like either a mink or a ferret. We both discussed what this could be and neither had seen this animal in the wild. I brought this up to a person well versed in animals in the North Coast wild and he congratulated me on witnessing a "Fisher". A very rare sighting he said in Humboldt County. It seems just a few years back that I had seen very few possum and now they are all over the place. Any others out there seen these "Fishers?"

D Day for Bay area teams!

2010-10-03T11:11:00.000-07:00

The Niners have to win today to avoid an 0-4 start. Not good. Coach Mike Singletary is having a melt down of extreme sorts, and none of the offensive coordinators seem to know how to get the ball to Vernon Davis! The defense has been on the field too much. Sigh. Another long winter.

The Giants have picked a bad time to lose games. If they do not win today against the Padres, they face either having to play San Diego at Petco, or go to Atlanta to play the Braves. Let us hope it doesn't come to that!

Freshwater done.

2010-09-28T10:38:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 28, 2010 - Samoa Pulp Mill Permanently Closed

Samoa, Ca - Freshwater Tissue Company announced the permanent closure of the
Samoa pulp mill. Evergreen Pulp, the prior owners of the pulp mill, closed
the mill in October of 2008 after a global collapse of the banking industry
left Evergreen insolvent.

Freshwater Tissue purchased the Samoa mill assets in February of 2009 with a
vision of converting the pulp mill to an integrated pulp and tissue plant
that would convert forest residuals into consumer-ready, eco-friendly toilet
paper. The projected cost of the plant conversion was $400 million. The
owners anticipated borrowing the funds from the Department of Energy.
Unfortunately, DOE loans were only available to green energy projects, such
as wind energy, solar energy, and the production of electric cars.

After failing to fund the integrated tissue mill project, Freshwater scaled
down its business plan and reduced its capital requirement to $30 million.
The company's new plan was to produce eco-friendly pulp, and it secured a
10-year sales contract for 100% of its production. Freshwater obtained all
necessary regulatory permits to re-open the mill, it received unprecedented
environmental and labor support, and it had bi-partisan government support.
When the company received notice from the U.S.D.A. that it qualified for a
$25 million loan guarantee Freshwater believed a loan was certain, but it
soon discovered banks would not loan against a government backed guarantee.

In a statement issued by Robert M. Simpson, Freshwater's President, Simpson
said "I am disappointed in our failure to re-start the pulp mill. We
exhausted all possible means of funding the project with the intention of
re-hiring union workers. Unfortunately, FDIC regulations made it impossible
for banks to finance startup projects like ours."

Freshwater reported that it has received an offer for its power and recovery
boiler. When asked about the offer Simpson said "we have two groups
interested in acquiring the boiler but we are not in contract and we don't
have any expectation as to when a sale will be completed." Simpson didn't
offer any details of Freshwater's future plans for the 156 acre industrial
site.

Lumberjack requests Pulp Mill information.

2010-09-22T09:37:00.000-07:00

Scottie Lee Meyers from The Lumberjack (the Humboldt State University student newspaper) is looking to do a story on the Pulp mill, past and present.

He can be reached at this email address slmeyers@humboldt.edu or called by cell phone: (262) 385-7518 if you would like to add your 2 cents.

Happy 32nd Anniversary Robin!

2010-09-16T12:27:00.000-07:00

The Marks endurance race continues. We used to joke to our friends that the only thing that was keeping us together was our kids, because we wanted to avoid a nasty court battle on who would have had to take them! But both are out on their own for quite a few years now, so I guess that was not the case. She puts up with me and I her. I will be at the softball fields most the evening and I am sure she will join me. What a date!

SOP and Breakers win Tomaso's Invitational!

2010-09-12T20:04:00.000-07:00

The former "Beer League" Championships, (which has been ongoing since 1973?) was replaced by the "Tomaso's Willow Creek Invitational." This was due to liability issues. 10 teams and over 100 participants and many hundreds of fans watched some great ball this weekend. In the "A" Division, Son of Pitches (SOP) were able to run the table and went undefeated and beat Puba's 1 for the Championship. In the "B" Division, Blondies Beakers beat Puba's 2 for the Championship. SOP won the overall Championship by beating the Breakers. All Tournament players for the "A" Division were, Doug Small and Kirk Gray Powers from Tomaso's, Wayne Wilson and Charles Barblutten from Central Station, Cam Reed and Jared Harpe from Puba's 1, Mike Menacho, Toye Johnson and Byron Gardner from SOP. Jason Mullaney was the Most Valuble Player of the "A" Division.

In the "B" Division, The Blondies Breakers defeated Puba's 2 (My Team) for the "B' Championship. Brian McNeil was the Most Valuable Player and David Thompson All Tournament from the Breakers, Marti Conti and Al Schmidt were the picks for Puba's 2. Gnash Day from the Dirt Bags made all tournament as did Rick Harding from Good Woods. Gene Joyce and Richard Wanu from the Pigs also made All Tournament. Mark Dube and Bob Davis were chosen from the Fat Bastards.

This Tournament would not happen if not for Tom Pagano, owner of Tomaso's Specialty Foods & Distributing at 201 Taylor Way Blue Lake, CA 95525. 668-1868. Tom supplied the insurance, umped many games, put out water, chips and salsa for all teams and served as good host for this tournament. For the love of the game. I look forward to next year.

Next year will be bigger and better. Tomaso's will be hosting this tournament at the same time next year and also a 10 team Blue Lake Mad River Invitational. BBQ and Bands and other Rowdiness. Stayed tuned.

(The Graphics design for this tournament was done by Jim Romick.)

LA Times does Pulp Mill. Port closing?

2010-09-09T10:50:00.000-07:00

The timber industry has suffered a long decline in Eureka, an isolated community about five hours north of San Francisco.

Now, a group of entrepreneurs wants to restore a wood pulp mill there to its former glory. The hitch is they need someone to lend them $20 million.

If they can't get financing to reopen the facility, which closed two years ago, they say, the local port will fail, hurting surrounding lumber operations and the last remnants of a resource economy in this community of 25,000 people.
"The only thing that sets Eureka apart from Bakersfield or Grass Valley is this port, and without the mill, this port has a good chance of going insolvent," said Sid Berg, president of the Humboldt and Del Norte Co. Building and Construction Trades Council, which supports the reopening.

In its heyday, the Louisiana-Pacific pulp mill, which converts scraps from timber operations into material for paper, generated so much pulp that two cargo ships pulled into the Eureka port each month. Those ships and two others serving another pulp mill in the region would transport the material to paper factories in Asia. Three additional barges brought in gasoline for the region's filling stations.
Since the closure in 2008, a total of only three ships have entered the port. The harbor commission has been dipping into its financial reserves to keep the port running in the hope that the mill would reopen. If it doesn't, the port won't generate enough traffic to justify the expense of dredging the harbor or keeping bar pilots on staff to guide ships into the harbor, said David Hull, chief executive of the Humboldt Bay Harbor District.

If the port closes, gasoline would have to be trucked into the area over winding roads from San Francisco. That would put more trucks on the roads and raise transportation costs for the fuel, Hull said. The cost of Eureka's water could also go up, because the pulp mill was contributing 15% of the district's water revenue.
In addition, other lumber mills that traditionally sold their waste to the pulp mill — popularly known as the Samoa mill because of its proximity to the small town of that name — will have to burn it or truck it to Oregon to sell to other pulp mills.

Because of the increased expense, Schmidbauer Lumber Co. is making about half of what it did when the Samoa mill was still open, said general manager Richard Graham.
But opponents say it's time to let go of manufacturing and stop pouring money into the towering smokestacks that have chugged since the 1960s. They say the Samoa mill's backers are having difficulty raising capital because the deal simply doesn't make business sense.

Bob Simpson bought the mill for $2.8 million in February 2009. Its former owners had abandoned it abruptly the year before, leaving behind millions of dollars in debts amid a deteriorating pulp market.

Simpson initially sought $400 million in financing to convert the property into a mill that would make eco-friendly toilet tissue. When that effort failed he lowered his sights to $20 million to restart the plant as a traditional pulp mill. Requests for loans, government grants and federal stimulus money so far have gone nowhere.
He's now considering selling off the factory in pieces to recoup his investment. A Canadian company has offered to buy the mill's boiler, and Simpson has to give them an answer by Wednesday.

Without timber, he said, the hardscrabble area won't have much to sustain its economy. As fishing and logging have disappeared in the northern part of the state, many locals have taken advantage of the cool climate to venture into a more profitable business: cannabis.

"Humboldt County's economy will be dependent upon the marijuana industry for its economic recovery," he said. "I don't believe that would be in the best interest of the state or federal government."

Opponents say the mill polluted the environment and that the region would be better off focusing on tourism.

"It's time to let go of it," said Carol Binder, a West Eureka resident who can see the smokestacks of the mill from her home and runs a blog, People Against the Samoa Pulp Mill.

CO-ED softball starts in Arcata this Friday!

2010-08-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

There will be CO-ED softball played in Arcata starting tomorrow at 6:20pm at the Arcata Sports Complex. If you are interested in playing, there is a lack of women participants. Call Kel Karges at 496-9695 or Richard Marks at 445-3432. I sent this information out multiple times to the Times Standard and they have not printed. So far we have 10 tentative teams.

United States uses 26% of all world oil! Canada our largest supplier!

2010-08-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

“Consider that the United States, with four percent of the world’s population, consumes a disproportionate slice of the world’s oil-production pie chart. The U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that we import almost 10 million barrels of crude oil per day of the 74 million the world produces (up from 21 million in 1960). We use 10 million barrels of our own oil, making our consumption roughly 26 percent of all crude oil pumped out of the earth.”

“We buy about half of our 10 million imported barrels from four countries. They are: Canada (1.86 million barrels), Mexico (1.17), Saudi Arabia (1.08), and Venezuela (1.07). The rest comes from eleven other countries.”

“It is apparent, then, that we buy 3.32 million barrels of crude each day from countries that either want to repossess California, have a habit of funding Middle Eastern terrorist groups, or are led by an egomaniac who hates everything about the U.S. except Sean Penn. We could lose Canada if a bad call by a U.S. referee should cost one of its hockey teams the Stanley Cup.”

William Jeanes AOL Auto Editor at Large