The nature of the encroachment upon American constitution is such, as to grow every day more and more encroaching. Like a cancer; it eats faster and faster every hour. The revenue creates pensioners, and the pensioners urge for more revenue.The seekers more numerous and more corrupt, and every day increases the circles of their dependents and vanity, luxury, foppery, selfishness, meanness, and downright venality swallow up the whole of society.
John Adams
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Thursday, March 31, 2011
March 28, 2011 Council Meeting
March 28, 2011 Council Meeting
28 comments:
Anonymous
said...
So, at 15:24 you guys begin to understand that the "City Attorney" doesn't give a rat's ass about the City, but about what he can charge, and charge more of and charge again. That man, who Bernard picked, doesn't have our best interests in mind. Get rid of his slimy ass.
I don't even know why we need an ambulance any more. We have a DOCTOR living in Cascade Locks AND we OWN the freeway!!!! Yeee Haaaww....Can you say medical coverage and INCOME! Go buy another fire truck Jeff!!!! You, um, earned it..
Curmedgon said... Did anyone else get their invite to the unveiling of the slut and the mutt statues? April 13th at 3 pm. Come watch your money being wasted on yet another Port folly. And they are dedicating it to Queen Jean! The nerve of it all! Why don't they just do what they are supposed to? Bring in jobs. Jobs, jobs, jobs. Have they brought in any in the last ten years?
March 29, 2011 10:10 AM Anonymous said... Dear Curmedgon,
The "jobs, jobs, jobs, jobs" have been sent overseas because our national politicians believe in letting corporations pay 10 cents an hour to non-union labor in plants that have no environmental restrictions etc. - and then sell those goods in the United States with no tariffs.
Getting mad at local officials for that problem is like pissing in the wind.
By the way, dissing a true American Heroine, a faithful dog companion, and lots of your neighbors is exactly what those corporations and national politicians want you to do. If you are mad at each other, you're distracted from putting your energies towards where they should be directed - a fair trade policy and re-establishing a middle class.
You must be one of those lazy Lockians who sat here and let the Port piss away our community's income from both the Bridge and the Warm Springs for the last ten years trying to hook the BIIIIG prize. All I have to say is show me the money (jobs).
BTW, She was a NATIVE American who was first kidnapped, then dragged around by a French-Canadian owner/husband and then utilized by a bunch of land-grabbing white men. Don't be fooled by the great American myth, it didn't exist than and it doesn't exist now. Try reading true history.
Go ahead, try to blame everything on the DC politicians while we have the same "daddy-knows-best type of local politician who thinks they know what's best for everyone else in the community.
The Port is supposed to be the economic development partner of this community, you fool. Again, point to one fricking job those ego-driven idiots have produced besides the ones that include mowing our lawns and cleaning our bathrooms.
I just can't figure out what it is we are memorializing? One decade of no jobs being created with a multi million dollar annual budget? Oh well, the statue is still cheaper and more appropriate than Pricher's house of "Worship the Fire Marshal". We have no one to blame but ourselves.
I'm impressed with your analysis of Sacagawea's circumstances, and totally agree about the great american myth as you so eloquently state. Three things: she is the very definition of an American, she's still a heroine (lots of kidnapped slaves have been); and, given your point of view, how could you call her a "slut"?
I think we could have a lot in common. However, you're not going to get very far with people who you might be able to persuade by calling them fools and idiots.
(BTW lots of people go long distances to see art, and the Locks does have a budding artist community. This does bring in some Tourism money, and adds money to the tax roles, reducing everyone elses taxes a little bit...)
Maybe, instead of seeking solutions, you just prefer to hear/see yourself being angry?... Something to consider...
1) Because it rhymes with mutt... Are you also going to stand up for the purity of the Newfoundland breed next?
2) Look up the definition of curmudgeon... and just for you, I'll spell it correctly.
3) What exactly did she do that you define as heroic, Again, look up the definition.
4) Budding what??? Don't make me laugh so hard this early in the morning. You sound like that idiot Lorang woman who thinks her gift shop has art in it. Now that her husband has stopped messing with the town and started messing with those souvenirs he can only sell to town and to visitors at the Vista House, perhaps we can get something done around here besides fawning over and spending money to woo the Warm Springs.
Tax ROLLS are only the property within a jurisdiction, and those buildings were previously in existence (and with a higher, better use.) Possibly the county has upped the assessment on the storage room turned foundry, but that's all.
P.S. You want to reduce taxes, get the Port to stop buying properies and taking them off of the rolls. AND paying for the services they enjoy like fire and police.
The only thing I am getting from curmudgeon is he or she fits his or her name perfectly. If you are hoping to come across as a cantankerous old fool you are doing a great job congrats!!!
Have you people ever lived anywhere else? Your electric bill is in line with most towns in Oregon. All around your utilities water, sewer and garbage are far less than Portland or Gresham. Seriously you think your property taxes are too high? Let’s keep in mind you don’t pay any sales tax. Where do people like you think the money comes from to maintain a community? I for one am proud to pay my taxes and I for one and proud to live in such beautiful area, honored really. Do yourself a favor and go spend a year in the city and then let me hear what you have to say. Better yet go live Washington and tell me what you think about taxes in that State. Really?
It's worse somewhere else is a pretty pathetic argument. Even worse when your examples contradict your statements.
A comparison of the electrical rates for public utilities in the area is in an earlier thread. Yes, it shows we are paying too much for our electricity.
Water and sewer are not taxes.
Yes, I seriously think my property taxes are too high.
Oregon ranks 14th* highest in taxation. Washington ranks 42nd* highest and they have a sales tax. Why is it so much more expensive to run a government in Oregon?
To anonymous OMG who said water and sewer were taxes! LOL Well you keep sticking to your lame arguments I’m sure your cronies’ will be happy to agree.
To Cody you are right….Someone needs to know the facts!!!! So instead using information to twist your argument to fit your reality how about you speak the truth?
This is so much fun. Watching the same old fights time after time after time. This is just a replay of the last blog.
"Cascade Locks, love it or leave it. You people should be proud to live here. This is a depressed community. You're a fool, an idiot, are misguided, is stupid. Yes, I am but what are you? Whine, bitch, whine, bitch."
All emotion and personal vendettas and trash talk from folks who should be able to live together and work for and bring together our community. Why is it that no one is able to voice an opinion that may differ from someone else without it turning vicious. Cody has the balls at least to search and provide facts. George at least allows everyone to speak, even Lance who is too obvious in his attempts, Waaay too obvious, but he gets to speak, as do citizens.
Now watch as I sign my name and they begin to personally attack me! And Really - that's my line, after what I went through, I should have proprietary rights to it. Really!
You can lead a mule to water but you can’t make it drink. Some people do not get it. So beyond the financial injustice our city is doing to the residential utility customers. This city has raised the cost of doing business here. Therefore we have what we have. A city with such potential for growth, stopped in its track’s because of the greed of its government. So if you think, that a business is going to set up shop here, when the cost of them doing business here cost them more than anywhere else in this state, or Washington by 1/3rd to 2/3rd's in utility costs, plus the property tax is at the highest rate allowed by law, you are a fool. Not to mention the business sector we have, which struggles to keep the doors open and the costs of their products competitive, in the marketplace. Which we all know, all we have to do, to see what the true market value is in our buying power, is to leave our city limits to shop. Sad but true.
If you think businesses are going to set up shop here when you have citizens who complain about what a miserable depressed area we live in and use words like Slut to describe Sacagawea, describe their neighbors as idiots and bitches not to mention some of the other choice name calling you all have shared with your neighbors, think again. You don’t want to pay for essential services! You can’t possibly acknowledge and appreciate the talented art community living right here in Cascade Locks. Folks on this BLOG call the Gallery a souvenir shop really ya ever been in there? I suppose the bronze work, sculptures, painters, jewelry makers, photographers, perfumeries, and Native American artist in Cascade Locks don’t pay taxes or contribute to their community. Given all the negative comments made about this bankrupt, depressed town, prehaps BLOGGERS might be excited to share the talents of their neighbors with the world, guess not. In case you’re wondering I am not an artist. I work in at the field of science and biology. To you MS. Stewart I would never give my name I’ve seen you it on camera would not want to meet you at the grocery store.
Every city has citizens whom have different points of view. Business understands this makes America what it is. What business cares about is the cost to do business, to stay in the black, so they survive in the marketplace. Now you keep mentioning this “talented art community living right here in Cascade Locks”. Further stating, “prehaps BLOGGERS might be excited to share the talents of their neighbors with the world”. I agree with you that these individuals are gifted, but let’s remember they are also business owners. Where, advertisement of that business is the responsibility of that artist, as a business owner. Success or failure lies in the business owner to advertise, not the city or the people of that city. Now consider this; if the rates for utilities were based on the cost of providing that service, not on the cost to run the city, wouldn’t this stimulate not only the art business in town you speak of so highly, but all commercial business? Maybe, just maybe, the present cost of products would go down? Maybe, just maybe, the existing business owners could invest in their businesses to improve them? Maybe, just maybe, the existing business owners could expand or create more jobs, afford raises to employees or benefits? Maybe, just maybe, new businesses would be created? Maybe, just maybe, cost of living jobs would be created? Then maybe, just maybe, residents could afford to buy that art? There is more to business than art. The true art lies in the ability to create and support business. That unjust policy’s of this city has taken all of our positives and made them negatives, for all business, old and new. So you need to understand, that without business beyond art, art cannot survive in our city. So do us all a favor and refer to business as a whole and not single out just one sector, of the commercial market, for your own personal agenda.
I don’t have an agenda. I moved here for the beauty I work out of the area. I just really don’t get the negativity on your site. Just once I would like to see you say one thing positive concerning this town local government, the residence, anything!!! You got anything Cody one positive word?
I don’t have an agenda. I moved here for the beauty I work out of the area. I just really don’t get the negativity on your site. Just once I would like to see you say one thing positive concerning this town, local government, the residence, anything!!! No worries I'm done, no point in trying, clearly no point.
Oh, I am sorry for misspelling your name, Ms. Stuart. I have the greatest respect for you standing up and speaking your mind. I cannot tell the difference between calling someone a bitch and bitching. (Noun vs. verb.) But will eventually learn as I will eventually learn that one does not capitalize slut. Please forgive me. Next time I might even use my own name instead of a made-up one that anyone can then co-opt.
Its been awhile since I visited the blog because listening to name-calling is amusing only for so long. So, no open plan yet in how to better our community? Is it easier to whine and snivel about it? Did you hear staff is doing a lousy job? Have you talked directly to the person and asked questions rather than take the word of someone who has a personal issue with the employee. If its public officials, talk to them too. Don't assume you know because you "heard" this or that. There is the option of running for election and/or volunteering for a committee rather than calling them idiots. It must be easier to have non-public meetings in homes. There one has the privilege of bad-mouthing, plotting overtakes, and deciding who is the easiest person to be a puppet so one can pull strings from behind. Before the next mouthpiece is chosen, a background work history would be a good idea. Did people listen, did they respect this person? Or does he puppet what you say or talk just to hear himself? Whatever may change in this town, the folks who meet privately in homes won't be satisfied with the results. There is always going to be one more person to be run out of town or be fired. I've watched alot of "stuff" happen in this town for years, and one of the saddest is when a person or a group has an agenda to get someone fired. Really?? Orchestrate someone losing his/her livelihood? Do you honestly know what its like to try to work with cranky, negative folks who listen and proceed based on gossip; what its like to try to work with State, County, City officials and regulations; what its like to try to work with legislators???? Do you really? Have you been there to jump through all the hoops and work through the redtape time after time? By the time folks are done browbeating elected officials, managers and staff, they're probably already looking for a new position just to be done with the harassment. And what do folks have against artists? I wish I had some of that talent. How long have they remained in business when others have folded. Is it jealousy that they've made it? Come on; lets pull together OPENLY and really work for the good of this town, for the good of all the residents, not just a select group. Let's stop the back-stabbing, the moaning, the name-calling. We can do this.
Cranky I assume you are speaking directly to me. People name call for many reasons. Some do it because they think it makes them feel cool by hurting people’s feelings. Some people do it because they are in a bad mood. Some people do it because they were hurt. Now in the case of this blog I believe that hurt is the reason for this. I do not know how long you have lived here, but this government has been hurting the citizens for a very long time. So there might be some pent up rage needing to be vented. Then there is another side, which as much as I try, I really do not get it, when the facts were and are there, they shun reality and make bad choices, only to get mad when it does not go their way, so now their feelings are hurt. So rocks get thrown both ways. But the biggest problem I have is those throwing rocks, without saying who they are. You know the back bitter type, who hasn’t got the guts to put a name to it. Who would be embarrassed of themselves, should their mommy or children find out. Someone whom may say they have your back, only to run at the first sign of conflict. Then there are those whom are afraid of retribution all because of that type of personality. So I just try to go around the madness and find any sign of a valid issue, as maybe there is a point to be heard. But the first time I ran into this problem, I did set this site to adult and set it up so parents could screen out offensive content, for parents who still care about that, as rare as that may seem. But you have to admit it has calmed down a lot recently. Yet I fear a storm may be on the horizon. It is just to calm right now. Now let me address your other statements.
Cranky You picked the right name and do live up to it. So much so, that I am having a hard time determining the points you are trying to get across. So let me take a stab at trying.
What do you mean by open plan to help our community? I have a lot of ideas but until the utility issues, the accounting policy issues, meeting laws issues along with citizen’s rights issues are all dealt with first the rest can never come to fruition. But trust me when I tell you, that as always, I am keeping Council on their toes.
Also trust me when I tell you, that I do not sit around and whine and snivel. Although you may not know about it, I am forefront in the fight for even you.
I have heard nothing bad about staff so I have no idea as to what you are talking about so I have to skip ahead.
I have run for election and would have this go round, but a medical condition arose so maybe again next time. I have in the past and am now on a committee although I wanted to be on two, but the mayor has a right to set the policy in accordance to council rules, so it is as it is.
I can have all the meetings I want in my home, public or not. That is my right as a proud American. I am not an elected official nor would I hold a meeting in my home or attend one at someone else’s home with more than one elected official to discuss city business. I respect the right of public meeting laws, as that is a guaranteed right by law and I know how past councils made me feel violated, when I learned they deprived me of that very right I had. As far as the rest, if I want to bad mouth, plot anything or create a puppet, that would be my right in my home, should I choose to do so? Again I have that right. I am not an elected official.
Candidates all use the same forms and meet the same requirements. It is the voter’s responsibility to research and ask the right questions. But in the end it is a gamble so all you can do is do the best you can as a voter and at least you seem to be rolling the dice.
I had a lifetime of cranky folk to work with but I cannot say I have worked in my trade with someone who gossips. But I know how it is living here around them if that helps you. I also had a lifetime of working with State, County, City, Metro, Federal, Military, corporate and little mom and pop businesses and all the rules and regulations you could dream of. So what is your point? Red tape you just deal with it if it is part of the job. Sometimes it is there for a good reason. If you can do that you can call yourself a professional in whatever your trade is, but again what is your point here?
Who is brow beating who? Who is looking for a new position and for what harassment? So let me know what you are talking about, because as it is you are just barking at the moon here. But if you do, don’t be surprised if you learn what you do not want to hear, because as you know there are 2 sides to every story and trust me, I will deal only in facts and not gossip.
I have nothing against artists what so ever. They have a gift I was not born with. I am happy they can survive on the gift they have. I like having them as businesses in town. They are businesses good for our town. But those kinds of businesses, creates no jobs and if they do, it is singular and if lucky maybe two. They are not going to expand beyond what they have. So as far as being a big commercial business generating taxes cities need, art is not that answer. We need job creating, taxpaying businesses to survive and grow. But I do know that it is costing these artists more than running their business out of their homes which they well could do. So I do appreciate the fact that they have improved the town with these businesses and increased the cost for them to do business here. But they too can only survive if the market allows it and these very businesses need a larger commercial, tourism, not to mention industrial sector to flourish or it will be harder for them to hang on. Which hanging on, is probably what they are dealing with at this time. And businesses closing, maybe you might want to consider the high utility rates because when the city inflates that rate by up to 2/3rds over the northwest, this city has created a anti business environment, not to mention stopped business survival and growth in its tracks, because the city has raised the cost to run any business here.
I’m as open as you can be. I am trying to work for the good of this town for everyone. I agree we can do it, if we all pull together and set aside our differences, in a positive direction for a brighter and better future for all. But I do have that hope.
Gosh, Cody, my comments weren't directed at you. Here I thought I was the one venting. My comments won't make sense to everyone, but there is one group that will understand them.
Thanks for what you're doing to help the community and for working on the costs of living here. I've been here since the early 70's, when our whole city-light bill was less than what our electric bill was in the other city.
Pulling together in a positive direction would be a whole lot easier if everyone would respect and obey all of our pertinent constitutional rights, Oregon Revised Statutes, local ordinances and our development code criteria. Until then we will be plagued with a fractured community.
28 comments:
So, at 15:24 you guys begin to understand that the "City Attorney" doesn't give a rat's ass about the City, but about what he can charge, and charge more of and charge again. That man, who Bernard picked, doesn't have our best interests in mind. Get rid of his slimy ass.
Birds of a feather flock together.
Another flock as bright as the last will probably finish this town......
I don't even know why we need an ambulance any more. We have a DOCTOR living in Cascade Locks AND we OWN the freeway!!!!
Yeee Haaaww....Can you say medical coverage and INCOME! Go buy another fire truck Jeff!!!! You, um, earned it..
(Pricher said)"Drivers are not smart,"..."They don't pay attention, or they wait until the last minute to slow down or change lanes.
"That's why the fire department guys have to do what we do sometimes in terms of traffic control and taking precautions," he said.
'Whatinthehell'is he talking about? Can he now magically prevent accidents by taking on traffic control? Does he want us to pay him for that,too?
Curmedgon said...
Did anyone else get their invite to the unveiling of the slut and the mutt statues? April 13th at 3 pm. Come watch your money being wasted on yet another Port folly. And they are dedicating it to Queen Jean! The nerve of it all! Why don't they just do what they are supposed to? Bring in jobs. Jobs, jobs, jobs. Have they brought in any in the last ten years?
March 29, 2011 10:10 AM
Anonymous said...
Dear Curmedgon,
The "jobs, jobs, jobs, jobs" have been sent overseas because our national politicians believe in letting corporations pay 10 cents an hour to non-union labor in plants that have no environmental restrictions etc. - and then sell those goods in the United States with no tariffs.
Getting mad at local officials for that problem is like pissing in the wind.
By the way, dissing a true American Heroine, a faithful dog companion, and lots of your neighbors is exactly what those corporations and national politicians want you to do. If you are mad at each other, you're distracted from putting your energies towards where they should be directed - a fair trade policy and re-establishing a middle class.
Sincerely
You must be one of those lazy Lockians who sat here and let the Port piss away our community's income from both the Bridge and the Warm Springs for the last ten years trying to hook the BIIIIG prize. All I have to say is show me the money (jobs).
BTW, She was a NATIVE American who was first kidnapped, then dragged around by a French-Canadian owner/husband and then utilized by a bunch of land-grabbing white men. Don't be fooled by the great American myth, it didn't exist than and it doesn't exist now. Try reading true history.
Go ahead, try to blame everything on the DC politicians while we have the same "daddy-knows-best type of local politician who thinks they know what's best for everyone else in the community.
The Port is supposed to be the economic development partner of this community, you fool. Again, point to one fricking job those ego-driven idiots have produced besides the ones that include mowing our lawns and cleaning our bathrooms.
And until you do, butt out of the conversation.
I just can't figure out what it is we are memorializing?
One decade of no jobs being created with a multi million dollar annual budget?
Oh well, the statue is still cheaper and more appropriate than Pricher's house of "Worship the Fire Marshal".
We have no one to blame but ourselves.
Curmedgon,
I'm impressed with your analysis of Sacagawea's circumstances, and totally agree about the great american myth as you so eloquently state. Three things: she is the very definition of an American, she's still a heroine (lots of kidnapped slaves have been); and, given your point of view, how could you call her a "slut"?
I think we could have a lot in common. However, you're not going to get very far with people who you might be able to persuade by calling them fools and idiots.
(BTW lots of people go long distances to see art, and the Locks does have a budding artist community. This does bring in some Tourism money, and adds money to the tax roles, reducing everyone elses taxes a little bit...)
Maybe, instead of seeking solutions, you just prefer to hear/see yourself being angry?... Something to consider...
Sincerely,
1) Because it rhymes with mutt... Are you also going to stand up for the purity of the Newfoundland breed next?
2) Look up the definition of curmudgeon... and just for you, I'll spell it correctly.
3) What exactly did she do that you define as heroic, Again, look up the definition.
4) Budding what??? Don't make me laugh so hard this early in the morning. You sound like that idiot Lorang woman who thinks her gift shop has art in it. Now that her husband has stopped messing with the town and started messing with those souvenirs he can only sell to town and to visitors at the Vista House, perhaps we can get something done around here besides fawning over and spending money to woo the Warm Springs.
Tax ROLLS are only the property within a jurisdiction, and those buildings were previously in existence (and with a higher, better use.) Possibly the county has upped the assessment on the storage room turned foundry, but that's all.
P.S. You want to reduce taxes, get the Port to stop buying properies and taking them off of the rolls. AND paying for the services they enjoy like fire and police.
The only thing I am getting from curmudgeon is he or she fits his or her name perfectly. If you are hoping to come across as a cantankerous old fool you are doing a great job congrats!!!
That fits most of town these days. I'm feeling a little cranky myself.
I guess you haven't looked at your tax bill yet, huh? If that doesn't work, try looking at your electric bill.
Have you people ever lived anywhere else? Your electric bill is in line with most towns in Oregon. All around your utilities water, sewer and garbage are far less than Portland or Gresham. Seriously you think your property taxes are too high? Let’s keep in mind you don’t pay any sales tax. Where do people like you think the money comes from to maintain a community? I for one am proud to pay my taxes and I for one and proud to live in such beautiful area, honored really. Do yourself a favor and go spend a year in the city and then let me hear what you have to say. Better yet go live Washington and tell me what you think about taxes in that State. Really?
It's worse somewhere else is a pretty pathetic argument. Even worse when your examples contradict your statements.
A comparison of the electrical rates for public utilities in the area is in an earlier thread. Yes, it shows we are paying too much for our electricity.
Water and sewer are not taxes.
Yes, I seriously think my property taxes are too high.
Oregon ranks 14th* highest in taxation. Washington ranks 42nd* highest and they have a sales tax. Why is it so much more expensive to run a government in Oregon?
Do yourself a favor, learn something.
Someone needs to know the facts.
http://www.oregon.gov/PUC/commission/statbook.pdf?ga=t
Cody
To anonymous OMG who said water and sewer were taxes! LOL Well you keep sticking to your lame arguments I’m sure your cronies’ will be happy to agree.
To Cody you are right….Someone needs to know the facts!!!! So instead using information to twist your argument to fit your reality how about you speak the truth?
This is so much fun. Watching the same old fights time after time after time. This is just a replay of the last blog.
"Cascade Locks, love it or leave it. You people should be proud to live here. This is a depressed community. You're a fool, an idiot, are misguided, is stupid. Yes, I am but what are you? Whine, bitch, whine, bitch."
All emotion and personal vendettas and trash talk from folks who should be able to live together and work for and bring together our community. Why is it that no one is able to voice an opinion that may differ from someone else without it turning vicious. Cody has the balls at least to search and provide facts. George at least allows everyone to speak, even Lance who is too obvious in his attempts, Waaay too obvious, but he gets to speak, as do citizens.
Now watch as I sign my name and they begin to personally attack me! And Really - that's my line, after what I went through, I should have proprietary rights to it. Really!
Really? Nice rebuttal, Really! ;)
"So instead using information to twist your argument"....
Twist your information to fit your argument????
That's priceless. Really.
You can lead a mule to water but you can’t make it drink.
Some people do not get it.
So beyond the financial injustice our city is doing to the residential utility customers.
This city has raised the cost of doing business here.
Therefore we have what we have.
A city with such potential for growth, stopped in its track’s because of the greed of its government.
So if you think, that a business is going to set up shop here, when the cost of them doing business here cost them more than anywhere else in this state, or Washington by 1/3rd to 2/3rd's in utility costs, plus the property tax is at the highest rate allowed by law, you are a fool.
Not to mention the business sector we have, which struggles to keep the doors open and the costs of their products competitive, in the marketplace.
Which we all know, all we have to do, to see what the true market value is in our buying power, is to leave our city limits to shop.
Sad but true.
Cody
If you think businesses are going to set up shop here when you have citizens who complain about what a miserable depressed area we live in and use words like Slut to describe Sacagawea, describe their neighbors as idiots and bitches not to mention some of the other choice name calling you all have shared with your neighbors, think again. You don’t want to pay for essential services! You can’t possibly acknowledge and appreciate the talented art community living right here in Cascade Locks. Folks on this BLOG call the Gallery a souvenir shop really ya ever been in there? I suppose the bronze work, sculptures, painters, jewelry makers, photographers, perfumeries, and Native American artist in Cascade Locks don’t pay taxes or contribute to their community. Given all the negative comments made about this bankrupt, depressed town, prehaps BLOGGERS might be excited to share the talents of their neighbors with the world, guess not. In case you’re wondering I am not an artist. I work in at the field of science and biology. To you MS. Stewart I would never give my name I’ve seen you it on camera would not want to meet you at the grocery store.
Every city has citizens whom have different points of view.
Business understands this makes America what it is.
What business cares about is the cost to do business, to stay in the black, so they survive in the marketplace.
Now you keep mentioning this “talented art community living right here in Cascade Locks”.
Further stating, “prehaps BLOGGERS might be excited to share the talents of their neighbors with the world”.
I agree with you that these individuals are gifted, but let’s remember they are also business owners.
Where, advertisement of that business is the responsibility of that artist, as a business owner.
Success or failure lies in the business owner to advertise, not the city or the people of that city.
Now consider this; if the rates for utilities were based on the cost of providing that service, not on the cost to run the city, wouldn’t this stimulate not only the art business in town you speak of so highly, but all commercial business?
Maybe, just maybe, the present cost of products would go down?
Maybe, just maybe, the existing business owners could invest in their businesses to improve them?
Maybe, just maybe, the existing business owners could expand or create more jobs, afford raises to employees or benefits?
Maybe, just maybe, new businesses would be created?
Maybe, just maybe, cost of living jobs would be created?
Then maybe, just maybe, residents could afford to buy that art?
There is more to business than art.
The true art lies in the ability to create and support business.
That unjust policy’s of this city has taken all of our positives and made them negatives, for all business, old and new.
So you need to understand, that without business beyond art, art cannot survive in our city.
So do us all a favor and refer to business as a whole and not single out just one sector, of the commercial market, for your own personal agenda.
Cody
I don’t have an agenda. I moved here for the beauty I work out of the area. I just really don’t get the negativity on your site. Just once I would like to see you say one thing positive concerning this town local government, the residence, anything!!! You got anything Cody one positive word?
I don’t have an agenda. I moved here for the beauty I work out of the area. I just really don’t get the negativity on your site. Just once I would like to see you say one thing positive concerning this town, local government, the residence, anything!!!
No worries I'm done, no point in trying, clearly no point.
Oh, I am sorry for misspelling your name, Ms. Stuart. I have the greatest respect for you standing up and speaking your mind. I cannot tell the difference between calling someone a bitch and bitching. (Noun vs. verb.) But will eventually learn as I will eventually learn that one does not capitalize slut. Please forgive me. Next time I might even use my own name instead of a made-up one that anyone can then co-opt.
Its been awhile since I visited the blog because listening to name-calling is amusing only for so long. So, no open plan yet in how to better our community? Is it easier to whine and snivel about it? Did you hear staff is doing a lousy job? Have you talked directly to the person and asked questions rather than take the word of someone who has a personal issue with the employee. If its public officials, talk to them too. Don't assume you know because you "heard" this or that. There is the option of running for election and/or volunteering for a committee rather than calling them idiots.
It must be easier to have non-public meetings in homes. There one has the privilege of bad-mouthing, plotting overtakes, and deciding who is the easiest person to be a puppet so one can pull strings from behind. Before the next mouthpiece is chosen, a background work history would be a good idea. Did people listen, did they respect this person? Or does he puppet what you say or talk just to hear himself?
Whatever may change in this town, the folks who meet privately in homes won't be satisfied with the results. There is always going to be one more person to be run out of town or be fired. I've watched alot of "stuff" happen in this town for years, and one of the saddest is when a person or a group has an agenda to get someone fired. Really?? Orchestrate someone losing his/her livelihood? Do you honestly know what its like to try to work with cranky, negative folks who listen and proceed based on gossip; what its like to try to work with State, County, City officials and regulations; what its like to try to work with legislators???? Do you really? Have you been there to jump through all the hoops and work through the redtape time after time? By the time folks are done browbeating elected officials, managers and staff, they're probably already looking for a new position just to be done with the harassment.
And what do folks have against artists? I wish I had some of that talent. How long have they remained in business when others have folded. Is it jealousy that they've made it?
Come on; lets pull together OPENLY and really work for the good of this town, for the good of all the residents, not just a select group. Let's stop the back-stabbing, the moaning, the name-calling. We can do this.
Cranky
I assume you are speaking directly to me.
People name call for many reasons.
Some do it because they think it makes them feel cool by hurting people’s feelings.
Some people do it because they are in a bad mood.
Some people do it because they were hurt.
Now in the case of this blog I believe that hurt is the reason for this.
I do not know how long you have lived here, but this government has been hurting the citizens for a very long time.
So there might be some pent up rage needing to be vented.
Then there is another side, which as much as I try, I really do not get it, when the facts were and are there, they shun reality and make bad choices, only to get mad when it does not go their way, so now their feelings are hurt.
So rocks get thrown both ways.
But the biggest problem I have is those throwing rocks, without saying who they are.
You know the back bitter type, who hasn’t got the guts to put a name to it.
Who would be embarrassed of themselves, should their mommy or children find out.
Someone whom may say they have your back, only to run at the first sign of conflict.
Then there are those whom are afraid of retribution all because of that type of personality.
So I just try to go around the madness and find any sign of a valid issue, as maybe there is a point to be heard.
But the first time I ran into this problem, I did set this site to adult and set it up so parents could screen out offensive content, for parents who still care about that, as rare as that may seem.
But you have to admit it has calmed down a lot recently.
Yet I fear a storm may be on the horizon.
It is just to calm right now.
Now let me address your other statements.
Cody
Cranky
You picked the right name and do live up to it.
So much so, that I am having a hard time determining the points you are trying to get across.
So let me take a stab at trying.
What do you mean by open plan to help our community?
I have a lot of ideas but until the utility issues, the accounting policy issues, meeting laws issues along with citizen’s rights issues are all dealt with first the rest can never come to fruition.
But trust me when I tell you, that as always, I am keeping Council on their toes.
Also trust me when I tell you, that I do not sit around and whine and snivel.
Although you may not know about it, I am forefront in the fight for even you.
I have heard nothing bad about staff so I have no idea as to what you are talking about so I have to skip ahead.
I have run for election and would have this go round, but a medical condition arose so maybe again next time. I have in the past and am now on a committee although I wanted to be on two, but the mayor has a right to set the policy in accordance to council rules, so it is as it is.
I can have all the meetings I want in my home, public or not.
That is my right as a proud American.
I am not an elected official nor would I hold a meeting in my home or attend one at someone else’s home with more than one elected official to discuss city business.
I respect the right of public meeting laws, as that is a guaranteed right by law and I know how past councils made me feel violated, when I learned they deprived me of that very right I had.
As far as the rest, if I want to bad mouth, plot anything or create a puppet, that would be my right in my home, should I choose to do so? Again I have that right. I am not an elected official.
Candidates all use the same forms and meet the same requirements. It is the voter’s responsibility to research and ask the right questions. But in the end it is a gamble so all you can do is do the best you can as a voter and at least you seem to be rolling the dice.
Cody
Cranky
Who got fired?
I had a lifetime of cranky folk to work with but I cannot say I have worked in my trade with someone who gossips. But I know how it is living here around them if that helps you.
I also had a lifetime of working with State, County, City, Metro, Federal, Military, corporate and little mom and pop businesses and all the rules and regulations you could dream of. So what is your point?
Red tape you just deal with it if it is part of the job. Sometimes it is there for a good reason. If you can do that you can call yourself a professional in whatever your trade is, but again what is your point here?
Who is brow beating who?
Who is looking for a new position and for what harassment?
So let me know what you are talking about, because as it is you are just barking at the moon here.
But if you do, don’t be surprised if you learn what you do not want to hear, because as you know there are 2 sides to every story and trust me, I will deal only in facts and not gossip.
I have nothing against artists what so ever.
They have a gift I was not born with.
I am happy they can survive on the gift they have.
I like having them as businesses in town.
They are businesses good for our town.
But those kinds of businesses, creates no jobs and if they do, it is singular and if lucky maybe two.
They are not going to expand beyond what they have.
So as far as being a big commercial business generating taxes cities need, art is not that answer.
We need job creating, taxpaying businesses to survive and grow.
But I do know that it is costing these artists more than running their business out of their homes which they well could do.
So I do appreciate the fact that they have improved the town with these businesses and increased the cost for them to do business here. But they too can only survive if the market allows it and these very businesses need a larger commercial, tourism, not to mention industrial sector to flourish or it will be harder for them to hang on. Which hanging on, is probably what they are dealing with at this time.
And businesses closing, maybe you might want to consider the high utility rates because when the city inflates that rate by up to 2/3rds over the northwest, this city has created a anti business environment, not to mention stopped business survival and growth in its tracks, because the city has raised the cost to run any business here.
I’m as open as you can be.
I am trying to work for the good of this town for everyone.
I agree we can do it, if we all pull together and set aside our differences, in a positive direction for a brighter and better future for all.
But I do have that hope.
Cody
Gosh, Cody, my comments weren't directed at you. Here I thought I was the one venting. My comments won't make sense to everyone, but there is one group that will understand them.
Thanks for what you're doing to help the community and for working on the costs of living here. I've been here since the early 70's, when our whole city-light bill was less than what our electric bill was in the other city.
Excellent points Cody.
Pulling together in a positive direction would be a whole lot easier if everyone would respect and obey all of our pertinent constitutional rights, Oregon Revised Statutes, local ordinances and our development code criteria. Until then we will be plagued with a fractured community.
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