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Opinions
Editorial
Local Police Department Did Not Violate 4th Amendment
In an editorial last week titled “How About a Favorable Interpretation Of The 4th Amendment,” Brian Addison stated that during the halftime of the girls’ final of the 7-1A District Boys and Girls Basketball tournament in Baker City, the Baker City Police Canine Drug Enforcement Unit visited the Baker High School gymnasium. Addison said, “It looked like just a nice random stroll, and fishing expedition, oh, and a violation of the 4th Amendment.”
Although Addison considers this type of act a violation of 4th Amendment rights, The Record-Courier would like to make it clear that the Baker City Police did nothing that could legally be regarded as a violation of the 4th Amendment. The Department was acting well within the scope of the law to bring the canine unit to the game. However, Baker City Police Chief Wyn Lohner said their intent for taking Turbo, the department’s drug dog, to the tournament was for the community to meet Turbo, and give him public exposure, not to search for drugs.
Lohner said the Police Department and its officers take the US Constitution Bill of Rights Amendments very seriously and are sworn to uphold them.
We apologize to the Baker City Police Department for not making it clearer that by running Addison’s editorial, we were in no way accusing the Police Department of any violation.
Addison’s editorial, just as letters to the editor and opinion pieces, do not necessarily reflect the newspaper’s position. We place our initials at the end of each editorial to let readers know that the editorial is the opinion of the writer only and not the collective opinion of the newspaper.
The newspaper (editor and publisher) feel the Baker City Police Department does a fine job and we continue to support their use of a dog as a viable tool to help rid the community of drugs. We also appreciate the work of our reporter Brian Addison and support his right to express his opinion as we encourage all of our readers to do as well. (DS)
Letters
Election Commentary
To The Record-Courier:
This week the bizarre news is that Bill and Hillary think that both Democrat presidential candidates should now run on the same ticket. This is a rather desperate measure, which is no doubt suggested by Hillary because she is so far behind in the election.
What really boggles the mind is that the Clintons both think Hillary should be #1 and Obama # 2 on a joint ticket. Illusions of grandeur have been a part of Hillary's personality for years, but just now these illusions appear to have become a full-blown delusion. Delusions are serious.
Carl R. Kostol
Baker City
Celebrate-Remember-Fight Back
To The Record-Courier:
Fifty years ago, at the age of 8, my oldest brother was diagnosed with leukemia and within a matter of weeks he was gone. There was no hope, there was no treatment, there was no cure. Today, after years of research, there is hope, and while the treatment is grueling and sometimes agonizing, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Now, more times than not, a child diagnosed with leukemia survives, thanks to the work of dedicated researchers funded in large measure by the American Cancer Society.
American Cancer Society’s premier fund raiser, RELAY FOR LIFE, is underway in Baker City! Fifteen new teams were formed at Kick-Off last Tuesday evening. We look forward to a successful event, which is set for Aug. 1 and 2 at the Baker High School Track.
It’s about being a community that takes up the fight! I would like to thank Community Connections for offering the use of their facility for our Kick-Off and team captain meetings (team captain meetings begin in April). Tom Fisk at Baker City and Rod Rogers at OTEC for their help with hanging the banner on Main Street, Dave Davis at Davis Computers for his technical expertise, and the people and merchants at Baker City for their generous support. Let’s work hard to raise some money for the work done by the American Cancer Society to brighten that light at the end of the tunnel, giving us all HOPE and, sooner rather than later, FINDING A CURE.
For more information about joining an existing team or forming a new team call Jerri Wickert at 523-3447 or Jodi Tool at 523-2713. For more information about corporate sponsorship call Ronaele Mello at 523-4509 or Deb Bainter at 523-5855.
For more information about RELAY FOR LIFE, visit www.relayforlife.org, click on Find Relay Events and type in Baker City; or call Gloria Schott at 523-7125, Kelly Hardy at 523-2484 or June Bennett at 523-6119. Join us at Relay to CELEBRATE, REMEMBER and FIGHT BACK!
Kelly Hardy
Baker City
What’s In Your Coffee?
To The Record-Courier:
I received an email that challenged me to my way of signing off on my letters having to do with coffee anyone? Little did I realize that by studying our coffee can it create pleasure for one’s lifestyle.
I am more than happy to send it to those who would like to see this work of art having to do with our coffee. It is pretty awesome to look at. I sent it to Koin 6 News and they said they had done a report at one time on this subject, but had never seen anything like this art work before. What it is, there are coffee cups lined up and you see various faces and designs in them. Imagine what your cup would look like, with whatever was captured by the one taking pictures of his or her coffee. With all heads down looking at their cup there probably wouldn’t be much room for conversation because of what they are capturing with all the logistics and degrees of artistic ability what their coffee cup is showing them. It makes me wonder how he or she did it. It is pretty cool stuff to look at. Someone must be pretty serious about drinking their coffee, and observe what their coffee beholds. Here I just enjoy drinking my coffee without having to study the diversities of what coffee can look like whether it be before or after one has finished.
So now I guess I can challenge myself to see and study my coffee drinking a little more carefully and seriously see what is truly in the coffee itself. We might see something that would really surprise us or maybe set us back some and create a disturbance to passersby going to get their coffee and have their local chit chats, etc., before going to work and all. Ha. We might have to take a different approach into drinking our coffee these days being careful not to be caught off guard... smile.
Coffee anyone?
Brenda Dickison
Baker City
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Editorials
Microstamping Bill — One Step Closer To Gun ControlThe microstamping of firearms may seem like an innocuous bill that is geared toward helping solve crimes or even discouraging crimes from happening, but it could also be the catalyst that paves the way for future legislative gun control.
Legislative proponents of gun control know they have little chance of passing a gun bill that would blatantly violate our Second Amendment rights, but here’s a bill that could get the gun control ball rolling.
It’s already happening in California. The state passed a similar bill last fall that would require microstamping on all semiautomatic pistols manufactured after 2010. One might reason that handguns have to be registered anyway, so what’s the big deal? Just add a few characters to the tip of the firing pin and the breech face, which proponents of the bill say adds about $8 to the cost of each firearm, and in return get a sure fire method of identifying which cartridges came out of which gun.
Eight bucks seems a small price to pay for the ability to track down guns used by criminals to break the law, however, gun manufacturers would also have to endure the cost of expensive computerized laser-etching equipment to add the microstamping. One gun manufacturer, STI International in Texas, has protested California’s microstamping bill by refusing to sell firearms to anyone residing in the state due to the increased costs to manufacture guns with the microstamping and because they say they are fierce supporters of the Second Amendment.
I can’t fault STI for taking this stand, but they are unwittingly playing directly into the hands of California’s legislative gun control activists. If other gun manufacturers follow suit to protest this bill, California will have no need to implement gun control because residents won’t be able to purchase them anyway. Gun control supporters score one, Second Amendment — zero.
Of course California residents could go out of state to purchase a handgun, but I’m guessing California will make getting unstamped semiautomatic pistols into the state about as difficult as smuggling in a trunk load of meth. Therefore, criminals really will be the only ones who have guns.
Even though the microstamping bill may not specifically mandate gun control, through a round about process it happens anyway.
The proposed bill has this amendment to Federal Law attached: “A person licensed under this chapter (Federal Firearms Licensee) shall not manufacture, import, or transfer a semiautomatic pistol... that is not capable of microstamping ammunition.” This basically means a Federal Firearms Licensee will not be able to trade or sell a used semiautomatic pistol manufactured before 2010. With no legal way to sell or trade them, what will this do to the monetary value of the 250 million guns already in existence?
Microstamping will not affect criminals other than encouraging them to steal weapons as they do for the most part anyway, and perhaps a file or two to grind off the microstamping. But it will affect those who legally purchase guns through higher costs and restricted sales from companies like STI.
Since figures show that 3/4 of violent crimes are committed without guns, why are some legislative individuals and groups concentrating so hard on ways to purge our nation of guns? Why not instead focus on ways to arm and prepare law-abiding citizens on how to protect themselves and their properties from the criminal element?
It’s true; we do need, and for the most part have, laws in place to prevent dangerous people from legally purchasing guns. Now if we could just find some way to keep them from getting their hands on rocks, hammers, knives, glass bottles, crow bars and big sticks, we’ll have it made… (DS)How About a Favorable Interpretation Of The 4th Amendment
“The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.” — 4th Amendment
Hey all you supporters of the 2nd Amendment out there. I question some of ‘you alls’ motivation when it comes to standing for the 2nd Amendment. Some of you voice your support with a hearty, “They can have my guns when they pry them from my cold dead hands.”
I think some people support the 2nd Amendment only for their love of guns and not for the love and respect for the 2nd Amendment. I say this after witnessing over the past 25 years, the erosion of rights established under the 4th Amendment. And, I’ve watched some of the strongest supporters of the 2nd Amendment lead the erosion of the 4th Amendment.
During halftime of the girls’ final of the 7-1A Dist. Boys and Girls Basketball tournament held in Baker City, with a gym full of visitors from Joseph and Imbler, the Baker City Police Canine Drug Enforcement Unit patrolled the Baker High School gymnasium. It looked like just a nice random stroll, and fishing expedition, oh, and a violation of the 4th Amendment.
Remember how briefly the 2nd Amendment has been written; a mere 27 words establishes our rights as citizens of the United States to keep and bear arms. Nowhere in those 27 words does it say, Thou Shalt Not Microstamp Firing Pins for Identification, or Thou Shalt Not Establish a National Data Base. But, most Americans see these types of actions as exertions of control and a threat and violation to 2nd Amendment rights.
My question is; Where’s all the support and favorable interpretation for the 4th Amendment? If microstamping firing pins threatens the 2nd Amendment (and in my opinion it certainly does), then isn’t a random search by a canine unit during a public event a violation of the 4th Amendment? To me it most certainly is a violation of the rights established under the 4th Amendment.
The thing that makes the point of my argument such a pernicious and insidious comparison is that some of the most adamant supporters of the 2nd Amendment are people who work in the police and law enforcement communities. This group of 2nd Amendment supporters is the group which also disregards such legal scrutiny and favorable interpretation when it comes to the 4th Amendment. The erosion of the 4th Amendment only weakens the 2nd Amendment, and the Constitution of the United States, and it weakens arguments protecting our rights.
A quick study of world and US history will help people learn about the use of dogs against citizens. I won’t name any names, not going to go there, but the last century witnessed a national government and police force that ended up getting quite a bit of mileage out of their canine units. My fear is that we will be able to gain some sense of this history simply by watching what happens next here in our own country. (BA)
Letters
Congrats BHS Jazz BandTo The Record-Courier:Congratulations to Mr. Jeff Sizer and the Baker High School Jazz Band for winning first place at the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival at the University of Idaho.
The patrons of School District 5J should be very proud of their music department. Various choral groups under the direction of Tom Isaacson have also won many awards.Frances BurgessBaker City Police Building Purchase Needs Public InputTo The Record-Courier:Open Letter to Councilors Bryan, Schumacher and Bass, City Manager Brocato, and Police Chief Lohner:
I just finished watching the Library's tape of Tuesday's Council Meeting, and the Council's consideration of the new Police department building purchase.
Despite Mr. Schumacher's statements about public participation on the issue, I must tell you that the show (there is an aptly phrased name for it) put on for an audience packed with public safety personnel, as well prepared as it was, makes it appear that you are contemptuous of a fair and democratic public process, if not the public themselves.
The Council's vote effectively ended potential public input before they could give the issue adequate thought and respond appropriately.
As Ms. Valenzuela pointed out, the public has not had an adequate time to think about the issue, and it does not constitute the kind of emergency that would warrant cutting short the public's participation.
As Mr. Rienks pointed out, we are not a wealthy community, and we need to keep our expenditures for public employees and services in line with that reality. The fact that Thursday's The Record-Courier article, with Chief Lohner making a case for the purchase, comes after the Council vote on Tuesday, is ample evidence that the City did not give adequate information to the public in a timely fashion.
As was mentioned, the presentation was compelling, but most one-sided presentations are, especially when there is little in the way of informed and organized public input, which there couldn't be, because your process didn't allow for it. I believe that is exactly how you wanted it to be, as the model is well-known among elitist governments who serve special interests, not the least of whom are their own favored, ever-expanding government bureaucracies.
Chief Lohner and Chief Price were given unlimited time to present their case and to rebut some statements that have been made by those opposed. There has been no other time or forum afforded those who have questions, except for the three minutes the Council allowed those who felt confident enough to show up and speak against the wishes of those in the fire and police departments, and except for the few hundred words citizens are not too frequently allotted by the local papers.
We can't expect to scrutinize every expenditure, or government would grind to a halt, but as others have also tried to explain, a non-emergency expenditure of this size warrants adequate public involvement.
Despite the City managers apparent feeling that actual democracy would compromise his ability to negotiate on price, the Council's obvious eagerness to purchase the building, in the face of serious public opposition, sends a clear message to the owners of the building to stick firm. In any event, no one has ever claimed that democracy is necessarily cheap or always efficient. It is supposed to be about the people's wishes and self-government, messy as that may be.
You may well be right in asserting that the purchase of the building is both necessary and affordable, but you should be ashamed of yourselves for not allowing the public to become fully informed about the need, about the ability of the community to pay when all currently prioritized needs and economic conditions are fully considered, and whether there are still other options to be looked at, such as remodeling existing space for additional privacy, etc., or consolidating law enforcement in Baker County. You simply steamrolled the public on this issue.
Unfortunately, it is not clear whether the purchase will cause more burning homes to be saved, whether fewer cars and buildings will be broken into, or whether the speed trap on north 17th Street will be given up for speed enforcement where it is really needed in the neighborhoods.Christopher ChristieBaker City Celebrate-Remember-Fight BackTo The Record-Courier:Fifty years ago, at the age of 8, my oldest brother was diagnosed with leukemia and within a matter of weeks he was gone. There was no hope, there was no treatment, there was no cure. Today, after years of research, there is hope, and while the treatment is grueling and sometimes agonizing, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Now, more times than not, a child diagnosed with leukemia survives, thanks to the work of dedicated researchers funded in large measure by the American Cancer Society.
American Cancer Society’s premier fund raiser, RELAY FOR LIFE, is underway in Baker City! Fifteen new teams were formed at Kick-Off last Tuesday evening. We look forward to a successful event, which is set for Aug. 1 and 2 at the Baker High School Track.
It’s about being a community that takes up the fight! I would like to thank Community Connections for offering the use of their facility for our Kick-Off and team captain meetings (team captain meetings begin in April). Tom Fisk at Baker City and Rod Rogers at OTEC for their help with hanging the banner on Main Street, Dave Davis at Davis Computers for his technical expertise, and the people and merchants at Baker City for their generous support. Let’s work hard to raise some money for the work done by the American Cancer Society to brighten that light at the end of the tunnel, giving us all HOPE and, sooner rather than later, FINDING A CURE.
For more information about joining an existing team or forming a new team call Jerri Wickert at 523-3447 or Jodi Tool at 523-2713. For more information about corporate sponsorship call Ronaele Mello at 523-4509 or Deb Bainter at 523-5855.
For more information about RELAY FOR LIFE, visit www.relayforlife.org, click on Find Relay Events and type in Baker City; or call Gloria Schott at 523-7125, Kelly Hardy at 523-2484 or June Bennett at 523-6119. Join us at Relay to CELEBRATE, REMEMBER and FIGHT BACK!Kelly HardyBaker CityHow About Sharing Information?To The Record-Courier:Information sharing regarding community facilities, major expenditures, and pressing needs should be part of the job the City Manager and senior management would be expected to perform.
The recent unwillingness to share information and the rapid decision made at the last City Council meeting to purchase a permanent home for the Police leaves much to be desired. The poor decision-making process that ended with the fire and police sharing a building seems to perpetuate itself - only in modified form. The dire circumstances that exist for police, victims, and security of evidence has existed for three years, yet it just appeared on the public radar screen.
I support the need for adequate Police and Fire facilities. The building chosen may be the best choice. We don’t know, because no one has given a concise list of needs (allocation needed for secure evidence storage, records, offices, etc.)
Chief Lohner gave a fine presentation to the Council and the need for adequate space seems compelling. However, it was done at the Council minutes before the decision to purchase a specific building was voted on. This is inadequate and not appropriate. What are the needs, priority, how does it fit into Capital Improvements Plan?
It is very nice that the City Manager had presented info to HBC, City Councilors, Budget Committee and press were given tours. The public was never given the chance to participate, although I was later told I could have gone along, if I had asked. I don’t know how to ask for a tour I never knew existed until it was over.
Were there others in the community who would have taken a tour if the opportunity had been offered? How else could information be shared without public tours in overcrowded offices and disruption to fire and police personnel?
Can we afford the building? The City Manager says yes, and the money is available. He recommends financing the building, but isn’t sure of costs. The asking price plus remodel costs were the only costs given. Some of the information is available from Chief Lohner directly. I asked the City Manager and he suggested that I fill out a Freedom of Information Act request or look at the Council packet available on the Internet. So if you are willing to dig to get the information you can obtain some from various sources.
Friday, I went to pick up the staff report I had requested. Apparently the Council packet acts as the staff report. It appears that no one should ask questions or express concerns about the process that leads to important decisions in our community. Baker City is not a private business, it is government business — the difference is public dollars.
Give the public a chance for discussion and input. Make a decision after public has a chance to comment and respond to the complete proposal.Vickie ValenzuelaBaker City |
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Letters
Concerns With New Police Department BuildingTo The Record-Courier:I have many concerns about Baker City taking steps to purchase the former DHS building to house the police department.
To begin with, the building is too big. The police department has about 18 employees spread over three shifts and seven days per week. That makes only about six employees per shift. I am told that DHS had 40 employees and room for clients also. Why does the police department need a 7,000 square foot building? Are there additional uses planned for the building that we have not yet heard about?
With the police department leaving the public safety building, additional space would also be created for the fire department. Does the fire department need to expand? What additional expenses would be incurred in remodeling and operating two separate and larger facilities? (Didn't we just merge them?) With a stable or declining population, are these additional costs warranted? Are there other higher priorities?
I also question the removal of a building worth about $500,000 from our tax rolls. This is a building that could house a new business. In economically uncertain times, do we have such a great tax base that we can afford this loss of revenue?
I wonder about the interface between the Leo Adler Walkpath and the location under consideration. Pathway walkers and police traffic would share the same space. Are the uses compatible? Would the character of the pathway be enhanced?
Finally and most importantly, I am concerned about the rush to approve any purchase with insufficient disclosure to the public and without adequate time and opportunity for public input. In recent elections, Baker City has spoken. We want the way that our elected officials spend our tax money to make sense after all the facts are known. Two executive sessions of the city council and two hurry-up newspaper articles do not meet the public participation standard.
Relocating the police department property means expansion. Until the case for expansion has been made, I say no to making an offer on this property. Let's get the horse before the cart, not the other way around. Ed MosesBaker City
Mixed Bag Or Mixed EmotionsTo The Record-Courier:Well here we go again, with various issues, etc., coming out in full force now. Even our votes aren’t making much of a difference on some issues that I will not go into given the respect, etc.
Animal abuse and those trying to protect our meat supply, you name it. It’s out there now. I am hoping as I write this letter I can add a little humor to it to brighten one’s day so to speak.
Wouldn’t it be fun to have a time machine that we can all step into and go back in time when issues weren’t as what they are now a days? Except if the machine had a malfunction in it we would have trouble getting back into the here and now. The only way we can do that is by shutting off our television sets and see what kind of protests come up. But now, one can even go to their computer and get all the updates they need to know. I ought to know, I have done that myself. Awk!
My last article had to do with the bag issue. I couldn’t help but call my article the way I did this time. No matter how far we go on anything our opinions, etc., it seems that the higher ups have the last here say no matter what and will do anything to get their way. I do believe we will possibly see some skirmishes out of this election before all is said and done.
We have never seen this kind of race before. I find it interesting to note when we see the old movies and all that in court hearings they wore wigs to look like they did back in the earlier times. Oh brother!
This is the first winter that I have been house bound from not having my morning coffee, so I get a nice supply to last me for a few days. Please drive careful and look out for the other guy, he might be going to get his morning coffee. Smile! Coffee anyone?Brenda DickisonBaker CityUnion County ListeningTo The Record-Courier:I am real curious about the approach taken by Wallowa County and Baker County regarding the Travel Management Plan of the WWNF.
The Baker Committee recommends to close about 50% of the total number of miles of road in the WWNF (in Baker County) and Fred Warner (Baker County Commissioner) says “I think we’ve come up with a really good plan.” Giving up half the roads before we ever get to the table is not a good plan. (I wonder what he thinks a bad plan would look like?)
Wallowa County Commissioner Mike Hayward says, “If they don’t do this travel management plan, come 2010 all roads on the National Forest will be closed: ML1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.” Sounds like Chicken Little “the sky is falling, the sky is falling.” They will not close 2, 3, 4 and 5 roads. There is no deadline for this TMP. Where in the world are our Commissioners getting their information or should I say misinformation? Maybe they both need to read the Federal Registry.
If we would have circulated a petition in Eastern Oregon that stated “I am for giving away half the ML1 roads in the Wallowa Whitman National Forest,” how many people do you think would have signed it?
We have a petition that states “I am against any further road, trail, or usage restrictions in the Wallowa Whitman National Forest” and have over 6,000 signatures. Looks to me like we should all remember come elections, which Commissioners actually listened to the people. Thank you, Union County, for listening.Tork BallardBaker City |
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Letters
Pine Eagle Friends Should Give Eagle Valley A Break On Health Clinic Taxes
To The Record-Courier:
I am a descendant of the oldest family in Eagle Valley. We have always been close to older Pine Valley Ranch owners. I surely don’t want an alteration now. As you all know, some years ago, Eagle Valley lost their school district through apportionment including Oxbow, Pine and Eagle Valley into one school district. Now the same stunt is being used on Eagle Valley property owners over a Pine Valley Health Clinic (a.k.a. Aid Station) even using the same school district boundaries. Only this time is different. All district property owner’s taxes will go up at the rate of .65 cents per thousand or approximately $350 average.
Property owners do not go to a clinic nurse, but to an M.D. in Baker City. Like Dr. Sanders, Dr. Wilson and Dr. Pollock, we used to have in the valley. This proposed arrangement means the poverty majority going to the clinic will be paid for by our taxes. If we go we will pay the maximum, plus our taxes, otherwise twice. All I am asking for is our Pine Valley friends to give us a break and vote this proposal down in May.
Dale D. Holcomb E.V. 1878
Richland, Ore.
DEQ Proposed Permit Fee Increases Must Go To Vote Of The People
To The Record-Courier:
In reading the article in The Record-Courier about Dept. of Environmental Quality and water quality permit fee increases and looking at Measure 5 of 1994 (debate?).
My impression about the water pollution discharges and new increased fees is that it needs voter approval, after voters passed Measure 5 of the 1994 general election. This approval was/is part of Oregon’s state constitution, amended by creating a new Section 32(a) in Article I that stated: “People’s right to approve all taxes. Notwithstanding any other provision of this constitution, any new taxes or tax increases shall require approval by the people.”
Permits, application fees, water fees, sewer fees, waste disposal, pollution discharges to name a few required voter approval as to state’s constitutional law (Rule).
The state D.E.Q. is contemplating a little empire building with the mandates of S.B. (Senate Bill) 737. The 3/4-vote may be made in emergency by the state’s legislature. The legislature should include the State Representatives of the House also as the Senate is only part of the State Legislature as stated in that act of 1994 that voters approved. Maybe Mr. Cliff Bentz “appointed” by county commissioners should be one of his “non” elected duties. Should we hold our commissioners accountable, or do we need a Ron Paul kind of guy for a Governor (rule of law)?
If Measure 5 of the 1994 act passed by the people, as an amendment to state constitutional law, how can the Senate, in collusion with the Governor’s (cabinets) abrogate (annul) the state’s constitution by the liberals to increase their Empires?
This would appear to be an end run around to avoid direct taxing to the people and Measure 5, as to “assess” the municipal governments as to tax indirectly (proxy). This sounds sleazy as to the D.E.Q. to revenue enhancement and grabs of power to Empire building by the left? Where’s the state’s prosecutor on this issue. Hmmm? (liberals).
We should hold our elected officials feet to the fire to accountability. That’s putting nature first, people last.
Bruce Parke
Sumpter
Is Initiative 40 A Good Idea?
To The Record-Courier:
The Herald should do its homework before blindly supporting expensive feel-good legislation.
In their Feb. 12 editorial “No more freebies,” they support Kevin Mannix’s Initiative 40, which mandates minimum sentences of 14 to 36 months for a host of drug and property crimes. They want to “discourage” crime and, apparently, are willing to do so no matter the cost to taxpayers. They conveniently leave out the shocking $400,000,000 price tag.
Neither they nor Mannix on his Web site offer any evidence that Initiative 40 will result in reducing crime rates. If they had done a few minutes Googling, they would have found that study after study shows reduction in crime is not attributable to mandatory minimum sentences.
Take, for example, Oregon’s Measure 11, the mandatory minimum sentencing law for violent crimes approved in 1994. After Measure 11 took effect, prison population grew from 7,539 to 13,401 inmates by 2007.
A study of Oregon’s crime and incarceration rates commissioned by Western Prison Project found during the decade following passage of Measure 11, violent crime rates in Oregon did fall. But…so did violent crimes rates across the nation, even in those states that did not embark, as did Oregon, on hugely expensive prison construction projects. The study concluded, “There appears to be no direct relationship between incarceration rates and crime rates.”
The best example is comparison of Oregon and New York, a state which built no new prisons. Between 1995 and 2002, Oregon’s incarceration rate jumped by 66.2%, while New York’s incarceration rate fell by 8.4%. Yet both experienced nearly equal reductions in violent crime.
With a little more research, the Herald would have found that studies show much, much more bang for the buck in crime reduction is achieved with money spent on rehabilitation programs. Unfortunately while Oregon was spending millions and millions building new prisons, alcohol and drug addiction treatment programs had their funding drastically reduced.
It feels good to lock up criminals. But it is penny wise and pound foolish to spend the money on ineffective mandatory minimum sentences rather than on proven rehabilitation programs.
Gary Dielman
Baker City
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Editorial
Would You Pay to Play Feed-The-Crow-To-The-Reporter?
Several weeks ago, we ran my opinion on the old Armory renovation. My comment was short and unkind. The comment doesn’t bear repeating but the basic gist of it was that the old Armory is not the most attractive building and an expensive renovation won’t really change that fact. When I made that comment, I didn’t understand what this facility means to the people of our fair county. Allow me to explain.
After writing that opinion, I had a conversation with my mom warning her to expect the comment in the paper (I do this when I know there will be something in there she may not like). As I tried to explain to her about the barb I’d shot at the volunteers of the Fair Board, she cared to hear nary a word I was saying. Without a blink of her eye she took on an excited tone of voice and began to tell me about the plans her quilt club has for their annual quilt show this summer and how nice it will be to have the old Armory freshly renovated and ready to go. This was the first time I started to realize that most people held about the same opinion as she does, an opinion that was about 180-degrees from my opinion and the comment I put my name to.
The value this community places on that old Armory and its renovation can also be measured in the high number of calls the Fair Board has received from parties looking to book the joint for their gig, from weddings to quilt-shows.
Two weeks ago all I could see was an old armory bunker. After talking to my mom I started to see the level of anticipation the Armory renovation has caused. I’ve also realized the amount of effort and work put in by local volunteers. The amount of corporate foundation sponsor dollars and grant funding toward the project has been phenomenal. Community programs looking for advice on grant writing and fund raising would be wise to consult with the Baker Co. Fair Board.
I’ve measured the community opinions, need and value placed on a newly renovated armory providing a convention/events facility and reassessed my opinion to some degree. May I suggest to the Fair Board another possible fund-raising project toward their renovation project; instead of pinning earrings to a pig, maybe the public would pay for a chance to win prizes playing feed-the-crow-to-the-reporter. (BA)Letter
All Animals Are Good For Something
To The Record-Courier:About 1956 some meetings were held.
Hunters complained of Porcupine quills in their dogs noses.
Cattlemen complained of quills in their cows noses.
Timber industry complained of porky eating new growth pine in spring (true).It was decided to kill all porcupines. F.S. furnished ammo, vehicles and paid their people to hunt them at night.
Some places paid 50 cents per nose bounty. No porcupines. In came the tussock moth, bark beatles and other bad insects. Millions was spent spraying tussock moth and cutting and burning beetle infected areas.
I have examined the stomachs of several porky’s. In spring they did eat new growth pine because there was nothing else to eat. In summer and fall I found evidence of insect larvae and possible bark beetles. In winter stomachs were pretty empty because of no food.
I say that all critters are good for something. Event the rattlesnake eats mice.
Wayne HydeRetired USFSBaker City
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Guest Opinion
We Will Not Abandon YouBy LTC Steve Russell (Ret.)The lack of support shown by national lawmakers to give troops the support needed to achieve their mission has become egregious. Americans wag at political assertions of troop support as the mission is obstructed. Every day, it seems as if another public official has claimed that victory in Iraq is impossible. This would come as quite a shock to the fighting soldiers. They know better. They also know that such proclamations are made solely for political gain, and are perhaps most welcomed by the enemies they fight.
It is past the time for national lawmakers to abandon their political investment in defeat. We must reassure our fighting men and women that they aren't fighting alone.
What can the average American do to back up our troops when our national lawmakers will not? This is a question I get asked frequently. The answer is, "take it to the states." Several states have already stepped forward with resolutions that promise to "not abandon our service men and women in this time of war and pledge full support of them and their efforts to secure victory."
Exactly one year ago, defeat seemed a forgone conclusion to many. Groups of "experts" sought an "honorable exit." But Vets for Victory, a pro-troop and pro-mission organization I head, began working with state lawmakers who were as frustrated about this as the people they represent. The result was a legislative proclamation telling the troops, "We will not abandon you."
Last February, average Oklahomans working with their state lawmakers rose up to declare such support. Despite the midterm elections and the pessimistic Iraq Study Group report, over a thousand veterans and troop supporters filled the plaza at the State Capitol building to take a stand on their behalf. A respectable group of bi-partisan lawmakers were also in attendance and read the state's pledge to not abandon the troops.
Vermont followed suit with its own proclamation in May. In June, Florida's Hillsborough County of 6 million people became the first non-state government to pass the resolution. And last November, the Massachusetts legislature followed with a strong variant of the bill. The Florida State Legislature will consider its own version this spring.
Do such resolutions matter? The soldiers and their families sure think so. And state legislators know they have to pump gas and buy groceries with their voters when the legislative session ends by summer in most states. To be fair, lawmakers are relieved when they are not alone in their views of backing the troops and their mission when all political 'savvy' would suggest leaving it alone.
Now is time to act at the state level. National media and political groups have allowed opponents of the war a steady national say. When the surge began to bear fruit, they began to focus their tactics of defeat by attacking the integrity and character of our men and women who serve in uniform or as contractors.
First, soldiers and marines were subjected to despicable political statements asserting instant guilt regarding war crimes that never were, with no apologies forthcoming upon acquittal.
Then we saw the same tactic in the celebrated Blackwater case. The media circled with vulture-like appetite to declare all contractors as out-of-control criminals. These former soldiers and law enforcement agents obviously chucked all their integrity and character the moment they took a paycheck from a private firm to serve their country as civilians.
Now we see returning veterans caught in the blast of hit pieces portraying us maladjusted beings of pity, likely to kill our loved ones and then come after you. Please don't tell my wife.
Instead, tell your local lawmakers. Enough is enough. Ask them to sponsor a resolution declaring that your state will not abandon the troops. This simple official message tells our troops that their sacrifice will not be in vain. It also goes a long way toward raising the morale of our troops instead of our enemies.
LTC Steve Russell, US Army, (Ret.), a central player in Saddam Hussein's hunt and capture, is the founder and chairman of Vets for Victory (www.vets4victory.com). He is a veteran of both Iraq and Afghanistan.Letters
Strommer Drops Out Of Primary RaceTo The Record-Courier:It is with some sadness that I announce that I will be bowing out of the Primary race for House District 60.
I want to thank my steering committee and many volunteers for their help and countless hours with this campaign. I have enjoyed the chance to meet so many new friends from the four counties of District 60.
Since Tom Butler announced his intent to retire last September, I have traveled thousands of miles and attended dozens of County Commissioners and City Council meetings learning the needs of District 60.
With the unanimous vote by the County Commissioners for Mr. Cliff Bentz I realized I was not getting the traction I need to continue in this campaign. The Commissioners had a tough decision to make. There were three qualified men running. I respect their decision. They made a good decision.
I would like to add my support for Mr. Cliff Bentz. Throughout this process Cliff and I have met many times and we have become friends. I have come to respect and appreciate his position on the issues. Cliff has a great deal of experience in Water and Land Rights. He has strong support in all four counties of District 60. He is respected by our ranch and farm communities. He has a strong work ethic and will listen to his constituents.
I will be taking an active part to see that Mr. Cliff Bentz is elected to the position that he was just appointed to, that of State Representative of House District 60.As for me I will continue to be involved in my community. I will look for opportunities to serve. I will continue to fight for the rights and values of Eastern Oregon. The best place in Oregon to live.Deon StrommerBaker CityCritics Need To Get Their Facts StraightTo The Record-Courier:Lord Byron said: “A man must serve his time to every trade, Save censure—critics all are ready made.”
Snow removal and water rates in our fair city have aroused at least two vocal critics. Not enough snow removal and excessive water rates. Their answer? Fire the City Manager. What nonsense!
The city does a fine job with snow removal. Some days it’s easy, some days it’s hard.
The water system pays for itself solely from the rates charged. Money received beyond immediate needs is held in an interest bearing dedicated fund. It is the same prudent approach to saving for the rainy day that the critics should follow. To that end, a water facilities plan has been in place since 2000. A wastewater facilities plan has been in place since 2005. The same prudence is applied to that service. Good idea!
Both of those plans precede Mr. Brocato. The critics should get their facts straight.Milo Pope Baker CityPanhandle Snowmobile Club Go Above And BeyondTo The Record-Courier:In a time when good news seems to be overshadowed by bad, I would like our Baker County community and especially the residents of the Eagle and Pine valleys to recognize the extraordinary performance of one of the local organizations. This past weekend, the Panhandle Snowmobile Club responded to a call from my office to assist in the search for and eventual rescue of two missing snowmobilers from Wallowa County. These men were overdue from an excursion starting at Salt Creek with a possible destination in Baker County. Missing persons in the back country of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest in the winter constitute an emergency because injury and death can result from a night or two exposed to the severe elements.
In December, Snowmobile club members attended a four-hour course in winter search and rescue and were eager to apply their skills. They didn’t have to wait long. They responded to the call, properly equipped with winter and survival equipment and were waiting at the snowmobile club headquarters for a search manager from Baker County Search and Rescue to arrive. This was a Sunday when I’m sure most members had other plans.
The members were dispatched from Halfway to search in teams with communications to the Command Post in Halfway. They followed the search manager’s instructions and conducted an organized, efficient, safe and most importantly, a successful search. Once the missing persons had been located, they assisted in transporting one snowmobiler to a waiting ambulance.
Both Wallowa and Union counties recognized the extraordinary performance of the Panhandle Snowmobile Club during this mission and have asked for training from Baker County for their snowmobile clubs.
From our western history, we can remember the sheriff’s posse, a citizen group who were dispatched, usually to apprehend a criminal. There simply were insufficient resources available to the sheriffs to perform the law enforcement function without citizen involvement. In this 21'st century, the county sheriffs are charged with law enforcement in the rural areas of the county and they still lack the necessary resources to fulfill all of the obligations of their office without citizen assistance.
Those who say we have lost the spirit of community should take this search and rescue as a textbook example of the response by its citizens when the sheriff called. The Panhandle Snowmobile Club didn’t turn its back on two men who desperately needed assistance to survive. Without their unselfish, professional response, the outcome of this search and rescue could have been tragic.
I am proud to acknowledge the assistance of the Panhandle Snowmobile Club and look forward to working with them in the future.Mitch SouthwickBaker County Sheriff Red Cross Thanks Local Business For DonationTo The Record-Courier:In November, Gentry Ford and Powder River Motors ran a campaign, which was a “Thank You” to our local Eastern Oregon Chapter of Red Cross. For every car sold, $100 would be donated to our local chapter.
Those wonderful people and the loyal customers made it possible for our local chapter of the Red Cross to receive a great Christmas gift. They presented a check for $6,100 to Roberta Morin, E.O. Chapter Board Chair on Dec. 3. What a wonderful surprise and gift. Thank you all who participated in this campaign and to Dennis and Kelli Wright and company for the timely gift.Roberta MorinBaker CitySupport Ron PaulTo The Record-Courier:How many of you are also getting bored with the election game? There is an apparent infatuation with, or is it a smoke screen, Iraq and how to conduct our “business” there. Then there is socialized medicine and what a good inexpensive system it will be for everyone. And there is mud-slinging. But no one, except Ron Paul, wants to bring up the real issues and challenges for this country’s future.
First in the mind of any statesman, not politician, would be the requirement to obey the U.S. Constitution, the Law of the Land for any American. I have not yet heard the word “Constitution” from the front runners on either side. Why not? Could it be ignorance or that they want to indulge in things that are off-limits to them at the Federal level? They want to control schools and health care and provide jobs and energy for all. All in violation of the Constitution. They are pure politicians, recognizing no legitimate restriction on their powers.
One issue for which they are legitimately responsible is national debt. Most of them, and all of the Democrats, just don’t see any problem raising taxes and spending money this bankrupt nation does not have. America is in debt to China and Japan far past the danger point. China, if or when it sells our debt, will be in a position to control the United States. But who cares? People will vote for anyone who will promise something for nothing. Why worry about the future?!
Speaking of China. While Iraq is absolutely no threat to the United States, China is! Nearly all of our war machine is based on satellite communications. China now has the proven ability to destroy our satellites. But politicians don’t want to talk about that. It is outside their comfort zone.
So the real question is, will the American public and you in particular, vote for he or she who appeals to you, or will you look for the candidate who might save this nation from certain disaster? Perhaps, Ron Paul.Jasper H. CoombesRichland, Ore.Paper Or Plastic?To The Record-Courier:I wonder when they say it is “all in the bag,” what more is really in store and how much more weight can all these issues really take hold? Adam and Eve had it made in the Garden of Eden, fresh fruit, etc. no chemicals, whatever they were given. It was only until the apple issue came up that separated them from these things.
It seems to me that way back when the plastic bag came about it outweighed the paper, being that if something was wet, etc. it wouldn’t lose what one was carrying to begin with. Now with the paper, being the issue again like that of a merry go round, does that mean we have to pick up our groceries off the ground if the paper loses its grip? I think they should do a test for durability myself. What about our zip lock bags, etc., or are we going to have to wind up with soggy sandwiches on the account of paper, sounds gross to me. Something to think about.
I don’t think they can exactly eliminate plastic all together. We will probably have to go back to our old antiques, our favorite lunch pail if one had one. But I do know they had paper bags in those days to carry their lunch to wherever. The way food was handled then compared to now wasn’t much of an issue as is now.
After all, when the ground hog doesn’t see his shadow, and we have more winter weather in store for us, I don’t blame the poor guy for not knowing what he might be waking up to with all these issues of how it could be miserable for him to be short-lived even for him given these freezing temperatures.
I just might have to be creative for my own well being, in seeing what kind of bag I can carry and trust that I can get home with it without the bag losing its grip.Coffee Anyone?Brenda DickisonBaker City |
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Letters
Check McCain’s Record Before Calling Him ConservativeTo The Record-Courier:I note with disbelief that some people insist on calling John McCain a “conservative.” Have any of those who refer to him as such taken even a moment to verify their works by simply checking his voting record in the Senate? I must assume that they have not.
Take a look at a few of his “conservative” votes and initiatives:
• Co-authored the bill to prevent groups from speaking out on a candidate’s record less than 60 days prior to an election.
• Co-authored a bill to close “gun show loopholes” to deny lawful purchases at gun shows.
• Co-authored a bill to grant amnesty and citizenship to illegal immigrants.• He voted more than 90-percent of the time in favor of bills introduced by the Clinton administration.
In today’s issue of the Arizona Republic there is a poll showing that McCain won’t even carry his own home state in the primaries. Obviously, the people there have finally seen through his facade.
There is much more now concerning John McAmnesty and his “conservatism.” You can learn the facts at www.therealmccain.com. Also check http://knowbeforeyouvote.com to learn the stands of all the candidates BEFORE you vote.David CheneyBaker CityFreedom Is Not FreeTo The Record-Courier:It’s good to see so many writing on this coming Presidential election. People who stand up against lies and misrepresenting of both parties. I would rather write about the Lord Jesus Christ and His love, but I feel led to add to just how important this election is with more facts. It will not matter whether you are Republican or Democrat if we all lose our Constitutional rights. If you are a believer in the Second Amendment to the Constitution, the one who holds the whole Constitution of this United States and our freedom together, then hear this! Our country differs from any other country in the world. No other country has the safeguards against government tyranny as we do.
The founding Fathers saw that we were to be CITIZENS who lived under good government, but had the right tom come against bad government, NOT as SUBJECTS under a KING who makes all the rules that you will obey or pay the price. We fought Bill Clinton and his Kingship for eight years over this. We shouldn’t be made to do it again with Hillary and Obama who both believe the 2nd Amendment doesn’t apply to us! They both have lied to get votes, but their own voting record shows what they really want. They both are in favor of gun ban. Bringing back Bill Clinton ban even stronger, that can lead to complete confiscation. Hillary was in complete even stronger, that can lead to complete confiscation. Hillary was in complete agreement with the confiscation that took place during “Katrina.”
Obama has variously supported bans on manufacture, sale, and possession of handguns. In 1998, he embraced the call to “BAN” the sale or transfer of ALL forms of Semi-Automatic weapons. In May 2000 Hillary made the statement at the million Mom march, “We have to license and register ALL handguns.” She will work with Feinstein of California to record all gun sales (not just handguns). Obama calls the D.C. gun ban “COMMON SENSE” and believes it’s constitutional. You judge?
D.C. bans private ownership of handguns, but also ANY operable long gun in homes for self-defense. You may not like guns, that’s all right, but the giving up of one’s freedom always led to another.
Just a true fact. Rebecca Peters confesses, (U.N) said, “self loading (semi-automatic) RIFLES, SHOTGUN, for sport did not make those guns suitable for civilian ownership.” Her aim wasn’t at sporting guns and collectables. 700,000 in Australia are to be melted down into soup cans and bus stop benches. If you want the same here, put Hillary or Obama in the White House. Then Peters and her boss George Soros will be happy to help them do just that.
In closing, guns in the hands of law-abiding citizens have kept this country free from foreign intervention. Lets keep it that way! Freedom is not free, you must fight for it! It is also said if your firearm is registered and you are asked to give it up, you do or go to jail. Think about it!Richard FoxBaker CityArts Are Well Represented In Baker CityTo The Record-Courier:In regard to your article on Thursday, Jan. 17, concerning Art and Artists.The representatives of Crossroad Arts Center are doing a fine job of presenting ideas for creating interest in the community concerning the visual arts as well as drama and so on.
I like and strongly recommend the program for our young people. They need to develop interest in creativity into the make up of their adult lives.
We now have a very good foundry, which can cast bronze into sculptures of varied interests. This business has created several jobs, they are located on 3100 Auburn Ave. Tyler Foust is the owner and I’m sure he would give guided tours.
Art interest is very strong in many areas and there are people who would be interested in coming to Baker City, set up Galleries, Art Instructors to hold workshops and so on.
I would like to refer you to magazine publication “American Cowboy” March-April 2007 issue. Western Art page 34. Report on Art show at the Gene Autry National Center’s Museum of the American West located in Las Angeles, Calif. 72 artists submitted 270 works and the total sale receipts amounted to $4.4 million. The top sale went to Artist Howard Terpning for an oil painting 48” x 65”. This sold for $1.3 million.
Also the “Cowboy Artists of America” are located in Kerrville, Texas, they are a fine group, they depict subjects of our western heritage, and they are nationally known.We have endless scenic beauty to paint in Baker County as well as Historic Baker City.Gene W. WestbergBaker CityLet Strommer Represent UsTo The Record-Courier:The purpose of this letter is to demonstrate unequivocal support for Deon Strommer. Deon is an outstanding leader in multiple arenas. He leads as head of his family, business, educational districts, church and volunteer. His interpersonal and mediation skills are unsurpassed. Deon is respected because he sincerely cares about the well-being of others. Without any reservation, Deon embodies everything a State Representative should be.
As head of his family with his loving wife at his side, he has set the standards high. His own eight children are exceptional students and citizens. Deon and Amy have also opened their home to their twin nephews. Deon places his family as a high priority. His love of family is obvious. He is always in any audience whether his children perform or not and he attends parent-teacher conferences. His parents live near by and he cares for them daily.
Deon has an unsurpassed competitive spirit to build new businesses. He works hand-in-hand with his employees demonstrating that the leader or employer can handle the multiple facets of his many and diverse business ventures. His staff respect and work hard because Deon leads by example. He is an outstanding small business leader, and recognition of his accomplishments is evident across two rural counties and communities.
His involvement as an elected board member of two school boards says it all. As a school superintendent, my interest has always been to have the most qualified and educated board members in the state. Deon has proven his qualifications by serving on budget committees, negotiating teams, task forces and mentoring to new board members. He has attended every regional and state in service offered by the Oregon School Board Association. I have deep gratitude and respect for Deon because he cares about all of the children in all of our schools; the one-room school house with 22 students to a high school with 650 students.
His love for his church family has placed him in Bishop positions not once, but twice. Deon is called on to solve family disputes, resolve Ward issues, care for the less fortunate families in the church and care for the senior citizens in his church and community. His church has tremendous outreach programs to shut-ins. The less fortunate receive a hand-up from Deon.
Where does one begin to list the multiple volunteer activities of Deon Strommer? I have witnessed his awesome speaking ability as he was selected by the senior class as the number one choice to be the keynote speaker. He held every child in the palm of his hand, as he motivated each one to reach for the stars. His seven month of services to Katrina victims was awesome and he continues to offer assistance to new business owners with the initial start-up phase of their operation.
I do not pretend to have a political bone in my body; however, I know who I want to represent me and my family in District 60. Deon is the leader for this challenging position. He has paid his dues. He is my candidate!Don UlreyBaker CityStrommer Supports Eastern OregonTo The Record-Courier:Tom Butler has resigned from the Oregon State Legislature after many years of excellent and highly respected service. His successor will play a crucial role in the future of Eastern Oregon. We cannot afford to be treated as a step child in Oregon politics and must be represented by someone balanced, respected and tactfully tenacious.
Our living and existence in Eastern Oregon is earned, for the most part, the “old fashioned” way; from wise and sustainable use of natural resources, and from the services and businesses that thrive in, and are essential to this type of economy.
It is crucial that we be represented by someone who will fight for our private property rights, water rights and access to the use of our natural resources without bartering them away in compromising deal making sessions. An understanding of the economic environment necessary to allow small businesses to compete and thrive against corporate giants is also a must.
In rural Oregon we have needs and concerns in education that require our voices to be heard in the halls of the legislature. We will best be represented by someone who has understanding and experience in education who can articulate our situation and fight for our cause.
We will need someone who is able and willing to take a stand when needed, but more importantly someone who has rock solid honesty with the morals and values to know where to stand as well as when to stand.
When Tom Butler endorsed Deon Strommer to be his successor I feel he once again made a wise choice in behalf of his district. Deon has owned and operated several small businesses in Baker and La Grande. He knows what it means to make payroll, be on budget, and make hard decisions. He has served five years on the Baker 5-J School Board and has worked hard to understand the problems, needs and strengths of our school system. He also serves on the Board of Education for the Union Baker ESD and was a key player in exposing and, dismantling a corrupt administration that is currently being dealt with by the courts.
Deon understands that our tie to the land, water and other natural resources is our life blood. Without them we cease to exist. He is a strong defender of our private rights and will fight to keep them for us. He is not afraid to ask questions to get better informed on any issue and is willing to give you his time if you have a concern or question for him or just want to get to know him better. Deon is a family man with family values who believes in God and the sanctity and dignity of human live.
In recent months some of you may have heard me say “I desperately love my country, but I’m not very happy with my government.” Much of this sentiment comes from the corruption and unfairness that we see exercised in the various branches of our state and federal governments. Our rights are being gradually taken from us and it is imperative that we choose good men and women to represent us or the “Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave” may soon go by some other name. If you don’t know Deon, ask about him or better yet, give him a call. He is the man I would like to represent me and if you do a little homework you may just find he is also the man for you.Roy S. AndersonBaker City, OregonTime For A ChangeTo The Record-Courier:Your recent pictures and statements about Baker City snow removal were timely and hit the nail on the head.
Why doesn’t the city require ODOT to remove snow on all streets that are State highways?
Snow removal is not the major problem in Baker City. City management is the problem. We have some fine people on the City Council. I suggest they admit they made a mistake, replace the City Manager and get on with City business.Wayne Hyde60 Year Resident, Baker CityMiddle GroundTo The Record-Courier:I’ve studied the two articles in the local papers, this past week, hoping for a glimmer of change in the approach our county has chosen, in regard to the Wallowa Whitman, Travel Management Plan. Fred Warner, our county commission chairman, and our TMP committee, steered by Jan Kerns, is offering a 50% closure of the ML1 roads that they’ve inventoried. 50% give away to lay on the bargaining table. Such a generous offer couldn’t be resisted, so Mr. Ellis has extended an invitation to cooperate with the counties involved. Yes this is the essence of collaboration. This is so obvious, explanations aren’t needed. If you are fooled by this, you are a fool.
It needs to be repeated, 6,000 local people signed petitions rejecting any more road closures. The committee’s path, steered by the Forest Service, ODFW, and watershed issues, doesn’t represent the Stakeholders.
The counties involved with the WWNF could have taken a unique course of action, banding together and asserting a strong position of resistance. Baker County’s give-away position has certainly weakened Union Co.’s strong stand. Union Co. chose to represent the constituency. A united front to preserve, the less than half of the WWNF as “opened, unless signed closed,” is not too much to expect.
This year along with the TMP, we have the Blue Mountain Revision Plan. In this plan, one more closure weapon is the designation of Inventoried Roadless Areas. The roadless areas are a myth; most of them contain RS2477 roads, and in the past were either logged or mined. Roadless Areas are just a prelude to wilderness designation, another loss.
We can sit back and lose our heritage, piece by piece, road by road, or take an active role to prevent these irreplaceable losses. What should we consider middle ground? Middle of the whole, middle of the half, middle of what’s left after 2009, middle after the Blue Mt. Revision Plan is adapted. Middle ground for me, plus 6000 others, is here now. We want what is left.Wanda BallardBaker City |
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