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Thisis unfortunate but that is the way it goes
Tuesday, January 06, 2009 ::
0 Comments
This was not the way I wanted this to turn out but it seems to be the only way to get there. Make sure you read the attachment and see the scope of the project.
Attachment: Arbitration_Next_Over_Casino_Expansion_Impacts.pdf
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Beth Gabor, Public Information Officer
January 6, 2009
(530) 666-8042 [w] ▪ (530) 219-8464 [c]
Yolo County, Rumsey Tribe Talks Headed for Arbitration over Casino Expansion
(Woodland, CA) – Yolo County and the Rumsey Band of Wintun Indians will likely enter arbitration after an impasse in negotiations related to the Tribe’s plans to triple the size of the Cache Creek Casino. Yolo County has attempted for months to negotiate with the Tribe to achieve a comprehensive and global approach to the expansion. Instead, the Tribe has chosen to negotiate by limiting the discussion to the narrowest scope possible. As negotiations have reached an impasse, both sides are now required to exchange their last, best written offer, which by necessity is a “bare bones” offer, leading to arbitration.
The Tribe’s Cache Creek Casino Expansion plan calls for:
§ tripling the size of the Casino;
§ increasing hotel rooms from 200 to 694; and
§ by tripling the size of the Casino, the Tribe can expand the existing 2,600 slot machines to at least 8,000 slot machines because its compact with the State allows an unlimited number of machines. At this size, the Cache Creek Casino would equal the size of the largest casino in the world.
“Yolo County has always valued its relationship with the Tribe and wants to continue working together as partners,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors Mike McGowan. “In the past, this partnership recognized a vision for the entire Capay Valley including preserving its rural character for an enhanced quality of life for all county residents. Unfortunately, the Tribe’s latest proposal to mitigate the impacts from tripling the size of the Cache Creek Casino does not reflect the spirit of this past partnership. We believe the magnitude of the casino expansion requires looking far beyond the Tribe’s limited view which only addresses impacts to individual county services.
“The sheer scope of the proposed Cache Creek Casino Expansion cannot be understood in isolation. The extreme demand on county services, such as sharp increases in the need for sewer discharge, water services, roads and traffic enforcement, child care, police and fire protection, etc. will carry a ripple effect on all of Yolo County and the county’s ability to preserve the Capay Valley’s rural quality of life.
“Yolo County along with the Sacramento Valley are, in effect, victims of intense competition between three massive casinos each vying to become the largest and most profitable. Unfortunately, these aggressive expansions can undercut local governments’ ability to maintain adequate levels of service and efforts to retain their rural character, especially in communities such as Yolo County.
“While we recognize and value the tremendous contributions made to Yolo County by the Tribe, the county’s ultimate commitment is to maintain a high quality of life for all residents. Fulfilling that responsibility is simply not possible through the Tribe’s current proposal, which likely will result in Yolo County taxpayers carrying the burden of the Cache Creek Casino Expansion’s impacts.”
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Hamas -- you asked for it
Monday, January 05, 2009 ::
0 Comments
I read all about the Middle East and as many of you know I spent some time there. I rarely comment about it because most of the time the issues are pretty complicated.
I am not someone that automatically thinks Israel is right. Many people just look at the two combatants and declare Isreal the correct side to be on.
This past week things are pretty clear to me. The people of Gaza were allowing rockets to be fired from civilian areas. Israel can't just stand back and let rockets fall out of the sky without responding -- and they did. Now Hamas and the people of Gaza are complaining. Look, I could have told you what the response was going to be. You knew what the response was going to be -- deal with it.
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Jury Duty
Monday, January 05, 2009 ::
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I did not get squat today. I need to show up tomorrow at 0900.
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Food Stamp Challenge - Review
Sunday, January 04, 2009 ::
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I have not really done a final report on The Food Stamp Challenge.
First, I did not do a good job shopping. Yamada did a far better job than I did.
Second, no matter what I did this thing just was not real to me. In the end, I could have gone the entire time without food and lived. I would not have been happy but I could have made it.
Third, I don't think many people on Food Stamps are making speeches in Stockton County Clubs while people eat nice meals in front of them. I also doubt they have as much food as I do around me. Food is everywhere. I just could not have any.
Fourth, I work really hard. All the time. I don't ever plan on going on food stamps and would have to be at a pretty low point in my life to do that. I would do it for my wife and kids (to sace them) but I would not do it for me.
Fifth, the shopping would have been far easier if I would have been able to buy for a longer period of time and could have taken greater advantages of economies of scale. I do think I could feed myself, wife, and kids on $12 a day very easily. I would have to shop around a little but we could certainly do it.
Sixth, I worked out each day I was on this program. That did not help.
Finally, this experience really just confirms my overall view. We have many support networks in our community. I have friends, family, and charitable organizations to seek help from. So do others. I would not want to get rid of the program but I would like those people that take my tax money and have it used for their personal benefit to be doing everything in their power to get to a point where we would not redistribute wealth.
I am maxing out. I expect them to do the same. Will I make more money when I max out than some others? Maybe. I just know that I am working on generating income for my family for far more than 12 hours each and every day. If someone else is doing the same thing and truly working to their greatest legal economic output then I can see my tax dollars being involuntarily taken from me and used to support them.
Here is a link sent to me by Robert that is on point.
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So what would you do?
Sunday, January 04, 2009 ::
0 Comments
This morning I woke up at my mother in laws in San Jose and picked up the newspaper. As I was reading breakfast I saw this story. It did not make me feel really good.
I am not sure what the facts are here. It appears that some important ones are in conflict. Clearly it is a tragedy. However, I can tell you my reaction in a similar situation. If I am by myself probably nothing happens. I just go on about my day. If my kids or wife are in the car when this happens I am probably sitting in jail right now just like this guy.
So say this guy goes to jail. He goes away for a long time at a huge expense. When he comes out again if he feels his girlfriend or family member if threatened he would do exactly the same thing.
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DMV - Woodland Office
Friday, January 02, 2009 ::
1 Comments
People like to make fun of the DMV. They have a tough job.
I recently realized that my Driver's License was about the expire so this morning I decided I was going to take care of that. I looked on line last night to find out that it opened at 0800 this morning. I was dreading the whole thing.
At 0800 I arrived at the Woodland office. I filled out the renewal paper work, paid my $28 plus $2 for the organ donor program, took an eye exam, got all the questions right on the written test, took my picture, did the thumb scan, and signed my name on the digital pad. How long did it take?
At 0816 I called Jenn and told her I was on my way to work.
I had a great experience there. It was quick, well organized, and the people helping me were great.
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Skiing -- what a view
Thursday, January 01, 2009 ::
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I had never been skiing at Diamond Peak before. I hadn't even really heard about it. Check out this view of Lake Tahoe behind me. It was beautiful. I really enjoyed going down this run.
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What are the odds?
Thursday, January 01, 2009 ::
0 Comments
On Monday I am scheduled to report for jury duty. I am kind of excited about it. I have always wanted to be on a jury. I don't think I will get to actually be seated -- but it could happen.
Then I read this article in the Democrat. Wow!
What are the odds that I could get a chance to be on the jury for the Anderson trial? 2009 may be my year. I may not be able to sleep tonight.
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From Investor's Business Daily: George W.'s War
Thursday, January 01, 2009 ::
1 Comments
Normally I don't simply cut and paste things from another publication. An exception is below. This is from Investor's Business Daily. I thought it was excellent. Read the whole thing.
George W.'s War...
By INVESTOR'S BUSINESS DAILY
No one likes war. War is a horrific affair, bloody and expensive. Sending our men and women into battle to perhaps die or be maimed is an unconscionable thought.
Yet some wars need to be waged, and someone needs to lead. The citizenry and Congress are often ambivalent or largely opposed to any given war. It's up to our leader to convince them. That's why we call the leader "Commander in Chief."
George W.'s war was no different. There was lots of resistance to it. Many in Congress were vehemently against the idea. The Commander in Chief had to lobby for legislative approval.
Along with supporters, George W. used the force of his convictions, the power of his title and every ounce of moral suasion he could muster to rally support. He had to assure Congress and the public that the war was morally justified, winnable and affordable. Congress eventually came around and voted overwhelmingly to wage war.
George W. then lobbied foreign governments for support. But in the end, only one European nation helped us. The rest of the world sat on its hands and watched.
After a few quick victories, things started to go bad. There were many dark days when all the news was discouraging. Casualties began to mount. It became obvious that our forces were too small. Congress began to drag its feet about funding the effort.
Many who had voted to support the war just a few years earlier were beginning to speak against it and accuse the Commander in Chief of misleading them. Many critics began to call him incompetent, an idiot and even a liar. Journalists joined the negative chorus with a
vengeance.
As the war entered its fourth year, the public began to grow weary of the conflict and the casualties. George W.'s popularity plummeted.
Yet through it all, he stood firm, supporting the troops and endorsing the struggle.
Without his unwavering support, the war would have surely ended, then and there, in overwhelming and total defeat.
At this darkest of times, he began to make some changes. More troops were added and trained. Some advisers were shuffled, and new generals installed.
Then, unexpectedly and gradually, things began to improve. Now it was the enemy that appeared to be growing weary of the lengthy conflict and losingsupport. Victories began to come, and hope returned.
Many critics in Congress and the press said the improvements were just George W.'s good luck. The progress, they said, would be temporary. He knew, however, that in warfare good fortune counts.
Then, in the unlikeliest of circumstances and perhaps the most historic example of military luck, the enemy blundered and was resoundingly defeated.
After six long years of war, the Commander in Chief basked in a most hard-fought victory.
So on that historic day, Oct. 19, 1781, in a place called Yorktown, a satisfied George Washington sat upon his beautiful white horse and accepted the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, effectively ending the Revolutionary War.
What? Were you thinking of someone else?
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State Projects in Yolo County
Wednesday, December 31, 2008 ::
0 Comments
Max over at the Flood Control District called my attention to the list at the end of this article on state financed construction projects. This is very important to Woodland and all of Yolo County.
You can read the article and list yourself but --- here are some highlights for Woodland.
Elkhorn Regional Park Trail and Riparian Enhancements --- $255,000
Yolo Wayfarer Mission -- $999,818
Prop 46 Money for Woodland -- $332,101
HCD Prop IC Money for Woodland -- $600,000
Woodland Joint Unified School District money -- $1,000,000
These decisions do impact Woodland directly. The inability of the state to manage their money will change the level of service that is provided.
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California's Mental Health System
Wednesday, December 31, 2008 ::
0 Comments
I just posted this entry over on the FlashReport. You might be interested in it.
Over the last two weeks I read what I thought was a well done report on the California Mental Health System.
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New Trivia
Wednesday, December 31, 2008 ::
0 Comments
Webmaster Bob has posted the new trivia questions and poll for the week.
This is some good Woodland history stuff.
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These Senate replacement battles are classic
Tuesday, December 30, 2008 ::
0 Comments
These "battles" to replace President-elect Obama and Senator Clinton are awesome.
First, I hope the Illinois thing goes on forever. Block the nomination of the former AG. Please. Let this keep on keepin' on.
For the New York thing I am seriously appalled that Caroline Kennedy is even being considered. She is not even close to being in the top 1,000 Democrats that are worthy of appointment to the US Senate to represent New York.
She is not even willing to full disclose her finances during the consideration process. She wants to wait until she is tapped. That is a bunch of nonsense.
She just is not the best choice. End it quickly and pick anyone but Caroline.
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So why have s senior member of Congress in your area?
Tuesday, December 30, 2008 ::
0 Comments
Since I have been spending more time with my family I have not had the chance to comment on Woodland Congressman Wally Herger being passed over for the ranking Republican position on Ways and Means.
Congressman Herger has not extended himself too much for Woodland or Yolo County. It is just not his focus.
Fair enough. My question is what is the advantage of having a senior member of Congress represent your area when they are the senior member and don't get the advantage of that seniority?
What is going on?
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Plumbing in an old house: I don't wish this on anyone
Tuesday, December 30, 2008 ::
3 Comments
So I have been a little out of it lately for a host of reasons. I have been spending time with my family, the holidays, and our house is not very welcoming right now.
About three days after we went on a two week trip to Mexico we were notified of a leak in our home. It turns out that we had a complete clog of our sewer line. The guy that rents the granny flat above our garage had no way of knowing and all the stuff he sent down the drain (shower, sink, toilet) for a couple days flowed right out of the toilet (see picture) in the back of our house.
 It then flowed right across our laundry room and then down into my basement office.
This is never a nice thing to have happen but it really isn't cool when you are in Mexico for the next ten days.
So the plumber unclogged the drain and a restoration company cleaned things up the best they could. The fans and dehumidifier are pictured below.
Now we have to put things back together again. This means that this whole part of the house is basically unusable. We are using the washing machine and dryer but that is about it.
The floor has been ripped up and all of the base flooring will need to be replaced. So lovely.
My work area is toast.
I can't tell you how much this sucks.
Clearly many worse things could have happened but this is pretty darn bad. Fixing this is a huge deal. New floors, carpet, walls, ceiling, tile, shower, toilet.....$$$ and loss of work space.
 A few days after we got back from Mexico we were told by our neighbor that water was flowing across our sidewalk. I thought a sprinkler head was off or something. Nope -- coming from under the sidewalk water was pouring out into our yard. Luckily from my point of view it was a city issue and they fixed it.
A week later I got a call from the guy above our garage letting me know water was "cascading off your roof". I got home to find out that the solar panels we have to help our hot water heater had cracked and water was flowing right out the bottom. New solar panels on the way. More $$$.
When I was trying to fix the solar panels with a friend that was trying to help us I broke a valve on top of the water heater. That is always nice to have one problem then create another. We now have a brand new water heater that is perfectly placed against the wall in the basement and strapped to that wall. More $$$.
Prior to leaving for the snow Jenn looked under the sink in the one of two bathrooms that are working and found water was leaking under the sink. Towels were soaked. We just turned off the water and left for the snow. It was fixed today.
We also now have a water softner that was fixed today -- long story.
I also have the story in the last few weeks about the shower that leaked all night.
Our house has cost us thousands of dollars, huge headaches, and major loss of time over the past few weeks. We have probably wasted thousands of gallons of water.
Suddenly Spring Lake is looking really nice. Maybe the Rexroads will go ruin Super K's neighborhood.
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Rexroads in the snow
Tuesday, December 30, 2008 ::
0 Comments
The Rexroads just got back from four days in the snow. That is why I have not been posting much lately. I am so proud of Abbie. She went skiing for the first time and did a great job in her lesson.
She followed the rules and got used to the snow. This was a great trip that gave us a chance to spend some good time together.
Adam had a little different take on the snow. This is a picture of his grandfather pulling him.
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Pray for Dudley and family
Monday, December 22, 2008 ::
0 Comments
I understand that former Woodland Mayor Dudley Holman is having some fairly serious health issues right now.
Please pray for Dudley and his family during this difficult time.
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Now this is funny
Monday, December 22, 2008 ::
1 Comments
I got to work today before 0800 and was cruising right before my staff meeting. I was on a call when I started surfing at the usual sites....and then GOOD GRIEF CHARLIE BROWN -- I saw this.
This image was then on the screen of the monitor at the head of the table of our conference room for the whole meeting.
Pee Wee is a revolting little man (you can see his booking photo here) but this poster is pretty funny. The photoshop is pretty good on this one.
Note: My bike has a flat tire. I need to fix it over the Christmas break.
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KCRA Channel 3
Monday, December 22, 2008 ::
0 Comments
I just got interviewed by Channel 3 regarding county offices being closed this week.
It was not my best performance but I don;t think I drooled on myself either.
It will be on at 6pm.
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Jury Duty -- Excellent
Monday, December 22, 2008 ::
0 Comments
I got a summons for jury duty. Excellent.
I have always wanted to be on a jury but always get tossed out. I can't wait.
Where is that copy of Twelve Angry Men?
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Backpacks for Kids - 2009
Sunday, December 21, 2008 ::
0 Comments
Dotty, Dave, and the Committee are working towards Backpacks for Kids 2009 already. They met this past week to prepare for 2009.
The big day is July 11th and Gibson Mansion. Mark your calendars.
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Community Service Awards
Friday, December 19, 2008 ::
0 Comments
The City of Woodland City Council annually presents Community Service Awards, the City‚s highest honor, to select individuals with a distinguished record of public service to the Woodland community. The City is now accepting suggestions from the public of candidates to be considered for the 2009 Award. You and/or your organization are encouraged to submit one or more names for consideration.
Selection criteria for the Community Service Award is:
Community leadership
Demonstrated, selfless service to the community
Initiated an important ongoing project or program in the community
Interest in varied activities
Dependability in completing assignments
A City Council appointed Nominating Committee will consider names of potential award candidates and provide the Council with nominations for the Council‚s review and approval. Usually three Community Service Awards are made each year. The Nominating Committee will conduct its work in late January/early February. The City Council will present the Awards at an event, open to the public, in the spring.
To submit a name for consideration complete a Suggested Candidate Form, and return it to Mayor Skip Davies at Woodland City Hall, City Manager‚s Office, 300 First Street, Woodland, CA 95695 no later than Friday, January 23, 2009. Names of candidates suggested in previous years will be reconsidered this year; however, names may also be resubmitted to supply additional or updated information.
Forms are available at City Hall, City Manager‚s Office or by calling 661-5800 during normal business hours or on the City of Woodland website at http://www.cityofwoodland.org.
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Adam taking a nap
Tuesday, December 16, 2008 ::
0 Comments
This is Adam taking a nap in the back of Jenn's car. He is taking a nap because he gets up at 0430 in the morning!!!!
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You know..I tend to agree with Governor Patterson
Monday, December 15, 2008 ::
3 Comments
I just read this article on CNN.com about the objection to a skit on SNL that included Fred Arminsen as New York Governor Patterson.
Here is the skit. Please embed.
I did not see SNL this week like I normally do. I read the article first and then went back to watch it..and think his objection is valid.
This is kind of like on American Idol when they make fun of people with disabilities. That is just not right.
Watch for yourself and see what you think.
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