Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Marijuana eradacation program against health

Was there not a news segment very recently about prisoners doing time for meth and cocaine being released 27 months early? This was decided by the Supreme court.

I mention this, because it seems to me that marijuana is a lesser crime, yet there seems to be a large cost expended and more attention with this issue than the other mentioned above. At least, locally, agreed?

CAMP has been in existence for nearly 20 years, I believe. In all the reports we read in the paper, or hear on the TV has only shown numbers of plants and estimated value. As with the currect article publish in the Times-Standard today.

http://www.times-standard.com/local/ci_7457610

I bring this view up, because in many views the legalization of marijuana for medical use by the Federal Government should be done, as it already is within 11 States, I believe. It may even be thought to be rightfully just as legal as alcohol is and treated as such.

If CAMP was so important to the eradication and prevention program, why do they not demonstrate in the articles the effects on society, socially as well as medically? It seems this would provide a stronger case against marijuana if it was for anything else but to harrass the public.

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Do Kerrigan’s Constituents Miss Him?

The Eureka Reporter had published a Letter to the Editor regarding Kerrigan's absence.
http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=30606

Thinking about the letter, it only demonstrated, maybe a lack of understanding how things work today; following old ideas. Not looking at new opportunities and ways of accomplishing common goals. I

t was an opportunity for him to work with the Edwards campaign, Kerrigan's benefit. But it may also turn out to be a benefit (one not seen), in the future to the north coast.

Missing Kerrigan? Probably not, for if it is needed, I understand Email works very well. As well as having other Council-members available to speak with if there is a concern.

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Abuse of "Disabled Placards"

was reading a post under "Rants & Raves" in the Humboldt County Section of CL (below).

http://humboldt.craigslist.org/rnr/475476134.html

As a disabled individual confined to a chair from a spinal cord injury, I have used a "Disabled Placard" in various situations. I honestly try not to use it, feeling there are those worst-off.

But this earlier mentioned rant made me consider this issue again. In so doing, I have to agree with the poster. It isn't even funny about the abuse. It is disgusting!

I believe the State of California should color code the Placards. This would kind of identify the sort of disability.

- A blue placard for the non-ambulatory (needs wheelchair, crutches, walker or are leg amputees) and this would be a permanent placard.

- A green placard for the ambulatory conditions(heart poblems, diabetic and so forth), where walking long distances maybe difficult. This may also be a permanent placard.

- A yellow placard would cover all other disabilities that (Broken legs, hips and so on) are short-term disabilities.

This is something the disabled community should consider when addressing our State Representatives.

I can assure you, there is nothing worst to me than seeing an individual with a placard quickly jump from their car or high pick-up and run/walk quickly into a shop and buy something you or I probably could not of even carried without help!

This is just a part of the abuse.

California Prop. 215 Abuse

I was reading a post under "Rants & Raves" in the Humboldt County Section of CL (below).

http://humboldt.craigslist.org/rnr/475476134.html

It made me think about my friends who use marjiuana for its calming effect on their pain, as well as a way to relax with cancer. With the passing of the Prop. 215 has come abuse along with positive views and effects economically as demonstrated in the NorthCoast Journal.

http://www.northcoastjournal.com/110807/cover1108.html

The city of Arcata has had some other problems with how to deal with grows with in the city. This is also somewhat addressed in the above article.

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Court Halts Government From Implementing Flawed Social Security No-Match Rule (8/31/2007)

Wow! This surprises me. I thought checking the Social Security Numbers was for ensuring that those being paid were having money credited to the appropriate account. If this is not done and a wrong number is being used, who pays for the mistake?

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has advocated for this effort because it was believed it would be used against "illegal immigrants". We seem to have or take pleasure in taking the ability of our government agencies ability to do their job properly away.

If someone is using a false number, illegal or not, would it not be appropriate to get the situation corrected?

Here is the link to the news release regarding this subject.

http://www.aclu.org/immigrants/workplace/31537prs20070831.html

Friday, November 9, 2007

Illegal Aliens Driver's License

Excuse me, if I may sound ignorant about the conflict of issuing “Illegal Aliens” a driver’s License from any State with the United States.

I am not understanding why anyone would want to circumvent a policy that is already in place for issuing driver’s Licenses to visitors of the United States. It is as follows:

Quick facts for foreign visitors about driving in the United States:

1. An international driver's license must be obtained from your home country. This permit only verifies that you hold a valid license in your home country. It is your foreign driver's license that allows you to drive in the United States. Contact the authorities in your home country to get an international driving permit, as the United States does NOT issue international driver's licenses to foreign visitors.

2. If you obtain a valid international driver's license from your country of origin before you come to the U.S., you may rent a car and drive before you get your U.S. driver's license.

3. A U.S. driver's license is not a federal document, but it's a permit issued by one of the 50 states' motor vehicle departments. If you're going to reside in the U.S., it may take several months to obtain a U.S. driver's license.

4. Foreign visitors who become U.S. residents can only obtain a driver's license from the state in which they reside. Each state has its own driving rules and regulations. Check with your state's motor vehicles department to find out how to apply.

5. Once you receive your U.S. driver's license from a state motor vehicles department, you will be permitted to drive in all other U.S. states. The laws in each state vary from one to another. It is your responsibility to know and obey the laws of that state while driving.

6. The residency requirement for obtaining a U.S. driver's license varies with each state. Consult the motor vehicles department in your state for more information.

7. If you are a foreign student coming to the U.S. to study, contact the university or college you will attend, as most institutions provide students with driving information and most have websites.

8. The U.S. government has issued warnings about Internet vendors of worthless international driver's licenses. It is important to educate yourself about the dangers of these costly and illegal operations.

http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Foreign_Visitors_Driving.shtml

The word “illegal” would seem to trigger something is wrong in a thinking man’s thought process. That is why the above rules were established, I thought, but maybe I am not a thinking man.

Now, I understand Congress is trying to supplement another Bill or Act regarding Driver’s Licenses to Aliens, illegal or not.

Why can’t our government provide the necessary resources to support the Laws we already have on the books? This is what disappoints me in our Congress and those looking to represent us in the future!

Am I the only one seeing that our Congress does not need to create new laws in dealing with “Illegal Aliens“, but to enforce the ones we currently have?

Upward Bound closure

As sent to our representatives - Hope others do the same!


Closure of a local Upward Bound Program that serves veterans is a shame. The Upward Bound Program at Humboldt State University will permanently close it doors at the end of November, 2007, because of the “lack of funding” (http://www.times-standard.com/local/ci_7413944).

It is hard to understand how a program that has been serving veterans over 33 years to continue their education is not funded. Especially with the number of new veterans that will be returning home from the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars. Take into fact that many of these returning individuals left school, jobs and their families to defend our Nation against a war on terrorism as claimed by our current President and those in Congress who supported this cause.

Now, those in Congress need to address how to best assist the many returning home in re-adjusting their lives to return to school, work and their families with more funding for support programs. Veteran’s support programs seem to be always the first to be cut in our National Budget System. How does this demonstrate our country’s appreciation for what our young men and women did to protect our way of life here at home?

Providing more immediate funding for Veteran Upward Bound Programs is needed!

Veterans upward bound provides a comprehensive program of support services to improve both academic and motivational skills. Services are available for college preparation and GED completion . Specific services include developmental courses to improve basic skills, tutoring, career counseling and advisement, college orientation, assistance with admissions, financial aid and referrals to other agencies. Veterans must meet program eligibility requirements.

Our veterans will be coming home with a possibility of many different life adjustment issues and being able to provide them with an education and training should not be one left out.

I ask you, as our representative to address the concern shown here locally, as well as Nationally with an immediate increase in funding.

Thursday, November 1, 2007

Multiple Assistance Center Woes

http://www.times-standard.com/local/ci_7337690

RE-reading the article above, Ice pointed out the problem: "We have three organizations with different thoughts that do not want to lose their anonomity.

This especially applies to the Rescue Mission Ice operates. "When this project first started, there were differences between these organizations regarding funding and who should do what. It seems now, when one is about to go down, they give the impression of support, but yet are concerned about individual powers.

If they think about it, the 16 individuals will be going where for assistance? St. Vincent DePaul or Eureka Mission, or both. This is going to increase their problems. Who will pick up the slack in their budgets?

The Mac's future hinges on the RCAA being able to reorganize its budget. Here is another part of the problem, and this is going to be very difficult for them to overcome. For they can not only look at financial responsibility for the MAC as a single entity.

They must be able to look at the overall structure of RCAA. This may mean, Department heads wearing more than one hat of responsibility, as well as better time management towards the operation of new duties, as well as duties currently in possession of that need to be turned over to others.

No matter, RCAA and the MAC has to look outside of the box, as well as look within their own box to create new ways of doing things - Some of the new ways of business may be just doing what worked in the past and are currently working for others outside of the area.

Also, no matter how faith driven they are, in the present world money and resources are tight individually. Not working in following strong traditional structures will demonstrate more towards survival than standing on old ways of doing things (I am not saying forget your faith, but create an avenue for sharing your faith, as well as accomplishing common goals.).

As one, these organizations will not be self-supported; but as a combined effort, I believe they could stand stronger for future work needed.

More Homeland Security

Our County of Supervisors are spending $1.26 million for new security at the courthouse here in Eureka. Here is a bit on this:

http://www.times-standard.com/local/ci_7337625

More security to induce fear in Humboldt County, as well as throughout our Nation. What next?

We have $1.26 million dollars being spent on security, needed or not. The need is not even being questioned by our representatives, it is just being done because of good authority there is a possibility of danger, a low possibility, but it is there.

After the installation of these security systems, as individuals we will have our bags and bodies checked for possible weapons (Though Law Enforcement will still enter through a private entrance and still carry their weapons, providing access to a weapon to the one who really wants trouble - No win situation.). Of course, after going through the security gate, you will need to sign in, show proof of who you are, provide reason for visit, and maybe even be asked to leave something of value at the entrance.

All in the name of security, protecting us, the people from ourselves. Kind of like President Bush using the 9/11 incident as something that "may" happen again because he hasn't got an Attorney General.

I know I am really sounding out of it. But I was shopping earlier today and noticed something that gave me thought to maybe our future. An individual was asked for a picture ID to purchase alcohol.

We all are in agreement with this, but as the customer asked: "It is not obvious that I am old enough to purchase alcohol?" as he reached into his billfold for his ID.

The store cashier/clerk responded: "We must ask everyone for an ID. It is the store policy, it is the Law." as they pointed to the camera behind him.

Imagine a few years from now, not too long, new security measures throughout the local area and country require we all wear our ID's on our chest. We would need to have ID's with various colors to point out that we may or may not be of risk. On top of this, these ID's don't come from the Department of Motor Vehicles, but our new local Department of Homeland Security.

But this is not all, because after we have gotten these ID's, we will become registered as residents of this County. Meaning, we can still travel freely to visit other parts of the country, but we could not change our residence without re-registering at the County we are looking to move to, show proof of employment, or ability to care for oneself, etc. (This is how it is in China, only tied to the City.).

Oops, maybe I should not of shared this thought. Our local government might use it, instead of coming to a sensible idea that does not take away our individual dignity and so-called freedoms.

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Why boycott Products from China

Should parents boycott all toys made in China? Are your kids' toys safe? Or could there be lead in them?

A scary prospect, indeed. As you know, the focus has been on lead-tainted toys manufactured in China. So, to all of us in the upcoming holiday shopping bazaar that is about to strike for Christmas: Should we ask ourselves about boycotting all toys made in China?

Most recently House Speaker Nancy Polosi has asked the Director of Consumer Product Safety Commission to resign because it seems as if they were not accepting the increased budget, as well as not doing their job. The Director, as well as the past Director has had some misleading actions regarding paid travel. Travel and trips paid for by the companies they are to product us from.

Anyhow, I feel we are placing the blame on the wrong people for not protecting the American people from poor products. Yes, I agree the Consumer Product Safety Commission needs more funding and should be seen more at our ports for investigating goods coming into the country. Still we are not looking at the source of the problem with poor products.

The problem lies with the businesses outsourcing the orders to factories that are not being watched by the ordering companies. They only place an order and there is no follow-up while it is being produced. They do not provide appropriate checks and balances and verify this is being followed. Before the product leaves the factory, it should of been verified as Safe by the ordering company (Mattel, I understand is now doing this - no proof of this shown as of this date.).

Do not boycott toys or other products from China. No, make companies ordering products from China responsible for the products they are asking China to produce.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

A Creed for the Disabled

Acceptance and Gratitude

Adlai Stevenson sent a prayer as his Christmas card after he was defeated by Eisenhower. One of the people who received the Christmas card was the famed Dr. Howard Rusk, founder of the "Rusk Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine" in New York City. Rush had the prayer, which was then known as "The Prayer of an Unknown Confederate Soldier," placed in bronze and entitled it "A Creed for the Disabled." This creed has supposily been in the lobby of the Rusk Institute for over thirty years.

I ask God for the strength that I might achieve.
I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.
I asked for health that I might do greater things.
I was given infirmity that I might do better things.
I asked for riches that I might be happy.
I was given poverty that I might be wise.
I asked for power that I might have the praise of men.
I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God.
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life.
I was given life that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing that I asked for, but everything I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am, among all men, most richly blessed.

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Letter Asking for Support of the ADA Restoration Act

Hopefully others will use the text below and forward to their representatives, or change the text, up to you.


As a disabled individual, looking for work and improved social involvement I am writing this letter to encourage your support for the Americans with Disabilities Restoration Act (H.R. 3195/S. 1881) to keep the promise that was done in 1990, but seems forgotten within our society and local governments.
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) was passed with overwhelming bipartisan support and signed by President George H.W. Bush in order to give people with disabilities a chance to be judged fairly.
Unfair discrimination harms all Americans. People with disabilities want to work to their full ability and not have to turn to public assistance to live. The ADA creates a level playing field so everyone who wants a job has an equal opportunity to work.
Just as other civil rights laws prohibit employers from basing decisions on characteristics like race or sex, Congress wanted the ADA to stop employers from making decisions based on disability.
But this is NOT happening for people for people with disabilities.
The employment rate if people with disabilities has not improved.
Two-thirds of people with disabilities who do not have a job indicate they would work if they could find employment.
Courts decide against people who challenge discrimination 97% of the time, often before the person has even had a chance to show that the employer treated them unfairly.
The courts have created an absurd Catch-22 by allowing employers to say a person is “too disabled” to do the job but not “disabled enough” to be protected by the law. The case is thrown out of court and the individual is never given the chance to do the job. This is wrong!
There are other points that need much attention, such as even additional funding for creating better access and getting more disabled involved in making policies and choosing appropriate accessible tools.
The ADA Restoration Act (H.R. 3195/S. 1881) ensures the right to be judged based on performance. It restores the original intent of Congress, harmonizing the ADA with other civil rights laws and requiring the courts to interpret the law fairly.
As an individual and wishing to limit what I have to share to a minimum, hope you look deeper into supporting the ADA Restoration Act (H.R. 3195/S. 1881).

SUPPORT ADA RESTORATION (H.R. 3195/S. 1881)

Write your representatives regarding the ADA Restoration Act (H.R. 3195/S. 1881).

Keep the Promise to End Unfair Employment Discrimination
EVERY AMERICAN WANTS THE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK AND TO BE JUDGED BASED ON PERFORMANCE.

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) was passed with overwhelming bipartisan support and signed by President George H.W. Bush in order to give people with disabilities a chance to be judged fairly.

Unfair discrimination harms all Americans. People with disabilities want to work to their full ability and not have to turn to public assistance to live. The ADA creates a level playing field so everyone who wants a job has an equal opportunity to work.

Just as other civil rights laws prohibit employers from basing decisions on characteristics like race or sex, Congress wanted the ADA to stop employers from making decisions based on disability.

BUT THIS IS NOT HAPPENING FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES.
􀂾 The employment rate of people with disabilities has not improved.
􀂾 Two-thirds of people with disabilities who do not have a job indicate they would work if they could find employment.
􀂾 Courts decide against people who challenge disability discrimination 97% of the time, often before the person has even had a chance to show that the employer treated them unfairly.

STOP EMPLOYERS AND COURTS FROM TREATING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES UNFAIRLY.
The courts have created an absurd Catch-22 by allowing employers to say a person is "too disabled" to do the job but not "disabled enough" to be protected by the law. The case is thrown out of court and the individual is never given the chance to do the job. This is wrong!

􀂾 People with conditions like epilepsy, diabetes, HIV, cancer, hearing loss, and mental illness who manage their disabilities with medication, prosthetics, hearing aids, etc. – or "mitigating measures" – are viewed as "too functional" to have a disability and are denied the ADA’s protection from employment discrimination.
􀂾 People denied a job or fired because an employer mistakenly believes they cannot perform the job – or because the employer does not want "people like that" in the workplace – are also denied the ADA’s protection from employment discrimination.

SUPPORT ADA RESTORATION (H.R. 3195/S. 1881)
The ADA Restoration Act (H.R. 3195/S. 1881) ensures the right to be judged based on performance. It restores the original intent of Congress, harmonizing the ADA with other civil rights laws and requiring the courts to interpret the law fairly.

http://www.c-c-d.org/task_forces/rights/TPs_FINAL_bill.pdf

Two Newspapers...

Here in Eureka, we have two newspapers, the Eureka Reporter and the Times Standard. The Eureka Reporter is published and distributed throughout Eureka free, though I believe you can have it delivered to your house for a fee. The Eureka Reporter is owned by the Arkley family and was started in 2003. The Eureka Reporter covers the Greater Eureka area and county news. It is independently and locally owned and features a local publisher/editor and writers. It has a daily publication in print and on the Web site, which is updated on a frequent basis throughout the week for articles of a timely nature.

As for the Times-Standard it has a much longer history and its distribution is throughout the county. it is now owned by a corporation that owns other papers and claims to servie the northcoast by covering local news because they’re a community newspaper — our community’s daily newspaper.

Well, be it true for either newspaper, I find the Eureka Reporter covers more local information/news and as for the Times-Standard local coverage is limited.

What are others thoughts?

http://www.times-standard.com/

http://www.eurekareporter.com/index.htm

Monday, October 15, 2007

Is Schwarzenegger On Drugs or Is the newspaper...?

It is not the legality of gay marriage or such, or that we should respect others sexual orientation, but saying it is okay for children to use the same bathroom at our schools. Taking the destinction of traditional familes out of textbooks, and etc. is crazy. Our Governor must not plan on being in office much longer, or the newspaper made up stories.

He, as well as other government officials seem to be losing it. I may be wrong, but read the following and develop your own thoughts.

http://www.wnd.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=58130

Saturday, October 13, 2007

In Two Peoples, One Place, Humboldt County...

The Humboldt County Historical Society will launch Two Peoples, One Place with a reception at the Humboldt County Library. This was done on October 13, 2007.

To read more of the book titled, "Two Peoples, One Place", go to this site:

http://www.northcoastjournal.com/101107/cover1011.html

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Need for Better Bus Stops

Social Service Transportation
Advisory Council of Humboldt County
427 F Street, Suite 220
Eureka, CA 95501

I am writing in regards to the access provided to the wheelchair user by the five new diesel-electric hybrid buses purchased and put into operation in May/June, 2007.

Recognizing the need for the buses and the future savings this provides the community of Humboldt County to its transit users, I feel they are very good investments. But, even though they have provided savings and eliminated the need for mechanized lifts for wheelchair passengers, they have developed poor access for the wheelchair user using manual chairs (Speaking with a couple others using power chairs, there also is some difficulty when first boarding.).

This difficulty appears at various designated bus stops. For at stops with little space for the bus to use the lift, the bus must pull away from the curb to allow the chair to have access. In doing this, the ramp is then at an unmanageable or difficult slope making it difficult to back on (I personally can not see how a person would board the bus at designated stops with no sidewalk or raised platform. Stops without sidewalks power chair users have difficulties because of the immediate incline of the ramp.).

I have also needed some assistance boarding the bus at a few stops. In all cases the driver has had no problem with this, but there has been a couple instances that the driver refused assistance.

The need for assistance would be eliminated if the bus could kneel lower, or the bus stops had appropriate space for loading chairs (There are stops that wheelchairs can not use independently.). There is a strong need to bring bus stops up to compatible use by individuals using manual wheelchairs and eliminate the need to having the drivers provide something as simple as a gentle pull onto the bus.


Charlie

Saturday, October 6, 2007

Humboldt County Supervisors Challenge PL Reorganization Plan

PACIFIC LUMBER FILES FOR BANKRUPTCY
Maxxam/PL Files Bankruptcy Reorganization Plan
PL has filed their plan of reorganization, seeking to sell the Marbled Murrelet Conservation Areas for the inflated price of $400 million, convert 21,800 acres for low-density development, sell the town of Scotia, and hold on to the remaining 181,000 acres. PL's plan tremendously overvalues these lands, sometimes by as much as 10 times the assumed value. PL had claimed that Maxxam would make a 'significant contribution' to the reorganization, but all that Maxxam offers is to forgive $40 million inter-company indebtedness (a claim by Maxxam against PL!) and to offer the company's real estate expertise, as well as shouldering some tax burden from future development. For more information on the Reorganization Plan click here.
Humboldt County Supervisors Challenge PL Reorganization Plan; Come Support them this Tuesday, Oct. 9th, 9 am
The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors has responded to Maxxam’s plan to convert 21,800 acres of prime timberland into 160-acre “kingdoms” (Maxxam’s term) by taking a very brave and powerful stand. Referencing California Government Code Section 65858, Supervisors Bonnie Neely and Jill Geist have brought forward an “urgency ordinance” which would place a temporary moratorium on any residential dwelling units on lands zoned TPZ. This moratorium would give the Supervisors 45 days in which to hold a noticed hearing on the issue, with the ability to extend the moratorium for up to 22 months, 15 days.
This issue will be heard by the Board of Supervisors this Tuesday morning, October 9th, some time after 9:00 a.m. This is the most courageous stand the Supervisors can take; they will need broad public support to go forward.
To declare this “urgency,” the Supervisor’s will need a 4/5 vote. We need to make sure that all of the Supervisors understand exactly how urgent this situation is. This is the single most critical land use decision that has ever faced Humboldt County: If Maxxam gets their way, it would convert an area larger than all of Eureka, Arcata, and Fortuna combined, from timber into unaffordable estates; and would dramatically and permanently alter the very nature of Humboldt County’s character and economy.
At its core, this is simply a question of whether the people of Humboldt County, through their elected officials, should have a voice in deciding such a pivotal issue, or whether it should simply be left up to Maxxam to do whatever they wish with this land, public interest be damned. Lacking public intervention, Maxxam’s reorganization plan could be approved by the bankruptcy court far in advance of the General Plan’s approval. Once such a plan is approved, then the ability for PL to emerge from Chapter 11 would depend upon their ability to carry out this planned conversion, subdivision, and development. If the County’s zoning were to not allow what the Court has approved, PL would likely be plunged back into Chapter 11 for a second time (or “Chapter 22.”)
The best path for PL to emerge from bankruptcy is to ensure that the company’s reorganization is based on a rational, realistic, and feasible plan. Maxxam’s proposal is not such a plan. The County can play a truly critical role in sending a strong message to PL, Maxxam, the company’s Noteholders, and the bankruptcy judge: this proposed plan is simply not in the interest of the community, and will not be tolerated.
The County has perhaps one card to play in this entire process, and this is it. We need to build the strongest possible base of support for the Supervisors for their meeting this Tuesday morning. Please distribute this message far and wide, and urge as many people as possible to be there.
Click here to see background documents:
Board of Supervisor's Staff Report
Board of Supervisor's Proposed Ordinance
Link to the Humboldt County Supervisor's Agenda
(Thanks to Mark Lovelace for this information.)

Monday, October 1, 2007

O'Reilly - Politically Correct (PC)

It must be difficult to be the center of attention every time you speak and to have the media, or anyone that recognizes you criticize what you say. Or, even go further than this; but stating you are ignorant or discriminatory because of something that was said, not having any true meaning outside of the conversation.

Bill O'Reilly of Fox News has been going through some of this because of a few statement he made after visiting a restaurant. The networks seemed to have a field day at cutting what was said into pieces and taking only parts of his comments and turned them into radical remarks or not "politically correct" comments. It is too bad that we have started to develop too much sensitivity to works and how they are used, especially when used in a conversation and only short versions of the text is used against you, not what was said before or after.


I was listening to the Arcata City Council meeting the other night. They were discussing the installation of cameras for better surveillance and such through the City (The Plaza and the City Hall Building and its parking area.). One council member mentioned the fact that there was an incident on the HSU campus involving a black man and a white man. After viewing the video from the surveillance camera, it was discovered that it was not the black man's fault, but the white man's fault.


My point here is: Why did either of the subjects mentioned here (O'Reilly or the council member) need to reference the race or skin color of the individuals involved? When speaking in either situation, could of the pronoun "they" or noun "individuals" been used instead?

In my opinion, I think that O'Reilly's only mistake was sharing his thoughts too honestly without considering how he represented himself to others. As for the council member, I think, because how she said it, she did not know she was making it a matter of fact type of thing that the one individual was saying.

How we speak and label others is important to think about, especially in today's society. We often forget about others' opinion or feelings!

Sunday, September 23, 2007

Drivers Through Eureka Have No Consideration

Got your attention, yes? It isn't all the drivers going through Eureka on the main throughways, just a few. But these few are dangerous and very inconsiderate and should be fined heavily!

Several times I try to cross using the crosswalks and after a vehicle stops to allow my crossing, I begin my trip to the other side. But I don't do this gingerly, for if I do, I would possibly get mowed over by an inconsiderate driver believing that the vehicle stopped in front of them had stopped for no reason.

Case in point, yesterday I was crossing 5th & O Streets to have lunch at Marcelli's (Great Food!). As I started to cross in front of the vehicle that had stopped for me in the first lane, the middle land was open and the vehicle coming up on the stopped vehicle pulled over and continued through the crossing without even slowing down... Then another vehicle was great and slowed traffic down in the middle lane and then a vehicle zipped through the third lane without slowing down and acted as if they didn't even see the other vehicles stopped at the intersection. After this vehicle went through, the vehicle in the middle lane tried to do a little traffic control to allow me to complete my crossing - Thanks!

When I entered the restaurant the patrons even remarked about how bad the vehicles were involving this situation.

To stress this a bit more and I am sure it has happened before, for pedestrians need to cross the streets with much care here in Eureka or become as the individual did in the below article:

Pedestrian dies after being hit and flying 100 feet
The Times-Standard - Article Launched: 09/23/2007 06:28:14 PM PDT

A man walking across Fourth Street was struck by a vehicle and thrown 100 feet Saturday afternoon, dying at the scene, Eureka police reported.


Alex Campos, 26, of Rio Dell, the driver, was arrested on charges of vehicular manslaughter and probation violations, and was booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility.

The victim, whose name was withheld pending notification of his family, was heading north across Fourth at A Street when he was hit at about 5 p.m.

Campos' vehicle, which was westbound in the far left lane of the one-way street, was traveling at a high rate of speed when it hit the pedestrian, police said.

The impact was so hard that the victim, while flying through the air, struck a traffic sign, bending it over, police said.

I personally feel we need more traffic conttrol lights on the main streets of Eureka!


Saturday, September 22, 2007

Why no one will hire me -

I took this article from the Washington Post - Though the circumstances are different, I feel Humboldt County is prejudice towards the disabled... Take a look at the two private employment agencies here and the public image provided regarding access; look at a few buildings that claim to have access, but truely do not meet what is expected.

Sunday, October 29, 2006; Page B08
I've seen the awkward stares and the compassionate smiles, and I've heard the reassurances and words of encouragement. I've also read the letters and taken the phone calls: I'm sorry, but we've found someone else to fill the position.
Although discrimination in hiring the disabled is illegal, as codified in the Americans With Disabilities Act, it nevertheless occurs. I am a case in point. I'm a one-legged man, and I can't get a job.

In February 2005 I lost my leg to cancer, a sarcoma on my right tibia. I walk with the aid of a prosthesis and a cane. I can walk, stand for prolonged periods, go up and down stairs, and drive a car. By trade, I'm a writer and editor -- office work. I have more than 23 years of professional experience. I have an impressive portfolio and have won awards.
Yet employers will not touch me.
That last statement is not bitterness but experience. For nearly a year, after I was laid off as staff writer for a Washington-area association, I've applied for hundreds of writing and editing jobs in Washington, Baltimore and the surrounding area. I've had more than a dozen face-to-face interviews. They have all resulted in the same state of affairs: I don't have a job.
Here's how it typically works: I respond to a newspaper or Internet employment notice with a cover letter, résumé and writing clips. The human resources person calls me for a telephone interview. She is impressed with my résumé and clips; she gauges my interest; we set a time and date for an on-site, in-person interview. As I hang up the phone, my expectations are high. They like me! I'm on my way to getting a job!
When I show up at the employer's office, my expectations begin to lag as the receptionist sees me walk with my cane as I approach her desk. She is momentarily taken aback by the man with a limp, but she quickly screws a warm smile onto her face. In the reception area, I'm met by more warm smiles, and then I'm invited into an office.
The interview goes well. They say they are impressed with my past work. They outline the job responsibilities, ask questions, answer my questions. It is a pleasant encounter.
Then, I follow the advice I received from my job counselor -- I bring up the subject of my disability. The thinking is this: It is illegal for a potential employer to ask an applicant about a disability. If I don't bring up the subject, I will leave the interviewer with doubt in his mind. He can see by the way I walk that something is wrong with me, but he won't necessarily know what. No one will hire a person he has a doubt about.
So I broach the subject: You've noticed that I walk with a cane. That's because I have an artificial leg. But I can assure you that it does not interfere with my ability to do my job.
Oh, no, no, no, say the interviewers emphatically. That has no bearing on our hiring process! You would be hired on the strength of your skills and talents. A physical disability doesn't have anything to do with the job.
At the end of the interview everyone shakes hands, and warm smiles and assurances abound. They show me to the door, I go home, and a week or so later, I get a letter or a phone call: Thank you for your interest, but we've selected another candidate. Good luck in your career search.

For the past year, the routine hasn't varied. The names, faces and employers change, but the result is the same. I do not get hired.
I realize that active prejudice is probably not in play in these situations. Human nature is. Think of it: If you're a company looking at your bottom line and you're faced with two candidates of equal skills -- one has a disability and one does not, whom would you choose?

This is just my story. But most people with disabilities who are able and willing to work have similar tales. It's not fair, but that's the way it is.
I suppose we disabled people can always work at Wal-Mart, giving out happy-face stickers for minimum-wage pay, but most of us are capable of doing better than that. I only wish the working world would give us a chance to prove it.
-- Chuck Jones
New Market, Md.
cjnewmarket@aol.com

Friday, September 21, 2007

Arms Industry making money through lost weapons

this was direct to Moveon.org. You know, I think it is great that you point out the unjust ways our leaders seem to be supporting the Iraq War. Here is another point that needs to be addressed in your press releases, for how can we fight terrorism if they can't keep track of the weapons we have sent to fight terrorist? This is just another scam our government is using to provide the arms industry a way of making more money.

Are Lost U.S. Weapons In Enemy Hands?
Investigation Shows Missing U.S. Weapons May Have Turned Up In The Hands Of Iraqi Insurgents

(CBS) Last month, a government report revealed the U.S. military could not account for 190,000 -- or 30 percent -- of all weapons issued to Iraqi Security Forces between June 2004 and December 2005.

Thursday, Pentagon officials said $88 billion in spending in Iraq and Afghanistan is now under audit by the Department of Defense for fraud.
Now, in his exclusive report CBS News chief investigative correspondent Armen Keteyian has learned some of those missing weapons have ended up in the worst possible hands.

CBS News has learned that the CIA has photographic evidence that Austrian-made Glocks intended for Iraqi security forces and paid for by U.S. taxpayers are now in the hands of Iraqi insurgents -- in numbers that the intelligence community believes are in the thousands.

According to an intelligence source, the U.S. contractor in charge of the Glocks somehow lost track of an entire shipment. That mysterious disappearance is now part of a massive military bribery investigation centered around a contracting office run out of a small trailer at a military base in Kuwait. Eighteen federal investigators are digging into the actions of dozens of high-ranking U.S officers and military contractors.

Thursday, at a House Armed Services Committee hearing, lawmakers took aim at what the chairman called "a culture of corruption" surrounding billions in Iraq war contracts, but stopped short of publicly saying where some of the weapons wound up.

"The number of folks who have enormous responsibility to this country are involved has, I think, made this a real tragedy for our country,” says Duncan Hunter, the committee's ranking member.

After the hearing, Keteyian confronted Army Lt. General Ross Thompson, who admitted the Inspector General at the Defense of Department is looking at the CIA's evidence.

“We are going to report tonight that thousands of Glock pistols intended for Iraq security forces instead ended up in the hands of insurgents,” says Keteyian.

“What is your reaction to that?"

“I don't know that for a fact,” Thompson says. “It is something that is being investigated by the DOD IG right now and that's something that is not within my responsibility or my area of expertise to comment on, but it is being actively investigated.”

As Congress prepares to send another $2 billion to the Iraq security forces, Dept. of Defense officials testified they are working to find better ways to maintain appropriate accountability and control over military material.
It’s small comfort to American soldiers in Iraq who may now be staring down the barrel of guns paid for by the U.S. government.

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/09/20/cbsnews_investigates/main3283595.shtml

Scandalously easy in some cases.

This is a follow-up to an earlier post from something I heard on the CBS news. This just demonstrates the lack of concern from some of our government representatives for necessities that are needed and are often under-funded as our road infrastructures, medical services, public transportation needs, homeless issues, veteran's services, education and so forth.
September 20, 2007, 2:47 PM
"Noah's Ark" Floats On Your Tax Dollars
Posted by Sharyl Attkisson She is an is investigative correspondent for CBS News.
The subject of my report tonight on the Evening News is a half million dollars earmark of federal tax money to help built a child's playpark for a private charity in Los Angeles: the Skirball Cultural Center. The playpark is called "Noah's Ark." What's the controversy? Some believe that federal tax dollars shouldn't be used for such earmarks, especially when it can be argued that many necessities are underfunded. To do this story, I wanted to visit Noah's Ark myself and interview the head of Skirball: Uri Herscher. At first, Skirball said "no." I argued that public money had helped pay for the playpark, after all, and that the Skirball enjoyed non-profit (special tax-exempt) status courtesy of U.S. taxpayers. It just didn't seem right that the Center would try to lock out the press and refuse to do an interview. The Skirball eventually allowed the visit and interview to happen. Noah's Ark is the kind of place most any kid would like to visit. In fact, the playpark has been pretty much sold out every day since it opened a few months back. In the eyes of some fiscal conservatives, that's part of the problem. When I asked just how much money Noah's Ark was bringing in from ticket sales, the Skirball said an average of $16,000 a week. With such success, will taxpayers be repaid on their investment? No. Earmarks don't require any such thing. Here's another issue. I took some time and researched the financial health of the Skirball Cultural Center. It's incredibly wealthy, as far as charities go. It survives off a $100 million endowment. It lists $885 million in gross receipts for 2005 (its most recent tax return). The executives earn healthy six figure salaries and enjoy healthy annual raises. Few would begrudge them that. The question is: is this the type of project that really needs or deserves federal tax money? The third problem raised by some critics of this earmark is that (they say) it circumvents the normal budgetary process. There is money available in the federal budget for arts, museums and other cultural interests. In fact, Congressman Henry Waxman who got the Skirball its earmark told me he'd tried to get funding through the normal process but when it didn't work, he went for the earmark. (It's worth reminding folks here that an earmark is a quick grant of public money by a member of Congress without the normal public review. Often it's a pet project in the home district.) When an earmark is granted, there is no requirement that a budget for the project be presented or verified, no requirement for the requestor to justify the need for money, no competitive factors by which other legitimate projects have a chance to get some of the money, no requirement for proof to be submitted showing how the money was actually spent. A final argument against earmarking for such projects is that there is an endless number of worthy projects in the country, but not nearly enough federal tax dollars to fund all of them. Why should a group that simply knows the right people or the right processes have an advantage over hundreds of thousands... if not millions... of worthy causes and projects that are traditionally funded privately or with state and local funds? The Skirball Center has several friends in Congress. Senator Dianne Feinstein tried to get the Skirball additional earmark money but it didn't work out. And Congressman Waxman twice tried to get the Skirball an extra $1.25 million on top of the $550,000 the Skirball had already received but for technical reasons, that didn't go through either. After having visited Noah's Ark, I'd say if you have kids, happen to be in Los Angeles, and can manage to get tickets, it's worth a visit. Mr. Herscher seems like a great guy and the Skirball press folks are sharp and couldn't have been nicer, once they agreed to let me visit. But it's not as if Noah's Ark wouldn't have been built without your tax money. Mr. Herscher told me if the federal government had turned down the money request, he'd have gotten the cash elsewhere. It's just that the federal money can be so easy to get when you know the right people in Washington. Scandalously easy in some cases.

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Skirball's Noah's Ark

I hope others write their representatives about this waste of tax-payers money!

Skirball Noah's Ark -

I heard on the CBS Evening News tonight that over $500,000 was provided for the building of the "Skirball’s Noah's Ark". This was added to the Transportation bill as an attachment.

Wow! This organization needed Federal tax dollars for building this in the name of education? I have to say I am amazed that this was passed, especially when there are public schools lacking funding to improve facilities and so forth, not mention "the Noah's Ark Exhibition" has nothing to do with our transportation infrastructure.

I hope you ask for this money back, or a part of the income collected weekly (Understand it is $16,000 weekly since they opened.); more than just taxes, more like 50% of the weekly income should be returned to the government if not all the $500,000.

Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 North Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049 Tel: (310) 440-4500

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Hwy. 101 Corridor

I notice in today's Times Standard, that both the City of Eureka Council and County of Humboldt Supervisors chose alternative 3 of the dEIR for the Hwy. 101 Corridor.

I find this interesting, for even choosing this alternative, it seemed that most agree that the document did not actually give much choice, or alternatives to the public. It was as if Caltrans and a few local representatives came up with these as the final choices and there were no other alternatives.

Since then there have been other alternatives presented that provided for a greater increase in environmental protection through the Green Wheels group, as well as a couple others. Our local governments have stated it is now the decision of HCAOG on what alternative will be approved and this will not be made for maybe a year (Funny how they state the decision is now placed on HCAOG. Isn't HCAOG made of the local government? - sounds like the decision has been made, yes?).

Highway 101 will need a lot of improvement to meet the demand of the future and the increase of traffic from a soon visiting crowd coming from the east over an improved Hwy. 299. It also needs to address commuters that move to the east and are buying property and homes in the Klamath-Trinity Area and commuting to work on the coast.

The pedestrian need is also not addressed in alternative 3 of the document, though HCAOG has addressed this need in the form of a bicycle trail along the bay. This should be included in the Caltrans dEIR and provide for alternative travel methods that will be used in the future.

Below is the dEIR address for reviewing the alternatives and information about the Humboldt Bay Trail HCAOG has put together.

http://www.dot.ca.gov/dist1/d1projects/envdocs.htm

http://www.hcaog.net/

Before any of these projects are approved, I believe that more consideration needs to be placed on alternative transportation and other avenues to meet the demands of the future. Even if the current plans are approved, they will not met future needs because by the time these projects are completed, they will be out of date. The projects need to look further than 20 - 25 years ahead, more like 40 - 50 years ahead the best possible.

An Unknown View

In future posts, the views presented will represent the thoughts of an individual with a disability, hence the blog name "An Unknown View". I state this because my view is much like anyone elses, but only because I am seen for the chair I use that many times others decide they know what is needed and don't take the time to look at the disabled person thoughts or feelings, especially when it comes to their needs.

Anyhow, will add more in the very near future and hope we all keep an open mind as it pertains to our individual lives - it is okay to disagree, but it is important to remember to respect the idea and thought presented.