U.S. District Court Judge, Michael W. Mossman Orders Port of Astoria To Finalize OLNG Lease

So, it wasn't an order, just a strong suggestion?

So, says OLNG's Peter Hansen?

From KAST-AM 1370 News and Talk

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE DISTRICT OF OREGON
PORTLAND DIVISION

LNG DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, LLC,
dba OREGON LNG,
No. CV 09-847-JE
Plaintiff,
OPINION & ORDER
v.
PORT OF ASTORIA, an Oregon Port; DAN HESS,
an individual; LARRY PFUND, an individual;
WILLIAM HUNSINGER, an individual;
JACK BLAND, an individual; and FLOYD
HOLCOM, an individual,
Defendants.

MOSMAN, J.,
On February 3, 2010, Magistrate Judge Jelderks issued Findings and Recommendation
("F&R") (#126) in the above-captioned case recommending that I GRANT plaintiff's Motion for
Preliminary Injunction (#101). Defendants filed objections to the F&R with a request for an
evidentiary hearing (#129) and plaintiff responded (#130).
DISCUSSION
The magistrate judge makes only recommendations to the court, to which any party may file
written objections. The court is not bound by the recommendations of the magistrate judge, but
PAGE 1 - OPINION & ORDER
Case 3:09-cv-00847-JE Document 132 Filed 03/11/2010 Page 1 of 2
retains responsibility for making the final determination. The court is generally required to make
a de novo determination of those portions of the report or specified findings or recommendation as
to which an objection is made. 28 U.S.C. § 636(b)(1)(C). However, the court is not required to
review, under a de novo or any other standard, the factual or legal conclusions of the magistrate
judge as to those portions of the F&R to which no objections are addressed. See Thomas v. Arn, 474
U.S. 140, 149 (1985); United States v. Reyna-Tapia, 328 F.3d 1114, 1121 (9th Cir. 2003). While
the level of scrutiny under which I am required to review the F&R depends on whether or not
objections have been filed, in either case, I am free to accept, reject, or modify any of the magistrate
judge's F&R. 28 U.S.C. § 636(b)(1)(C).
Upon review, I agree with Judge Jelderks's recommendation, and I ADOPT the F&R (#126)
as my own opinion. Plaintiff's Motion for Preliminary Injunction (#101) is GRANTED as described
in Judge Jelderks's F&R. Defendants should take immediate steps to provide the additional thirtyyear
term specified in the sublease, and to make the land subject to that sublease available to plaintiff
LNG for its use.
IT IS SO ORDERED.
DATED this 11th day of March, 2010.
/s/ Michael W. Mosman
MICHAEL W. MOSMAN
United States District Court
PAGE 2 - OPINION & ORDER

9:00AM Today(March 11, 2010) On OPB - Controlling LNG: A Conversation On States Control OF LNG Decision Over FERC's Control

From: Daniel Serres dserres@gmail.com
Date: March 10, 2010 8:14:09 PM PST

Listen To A Complete Replay Think Out Loud's Presentation, Controlling LNG

Fifth Amendment, Pipelines, Energy Speculators And Eminent Domain

Eminent domain
The Supreme Court has held that the federal government and each state has the power of eminent domain—the power to take private property for "public use". The Takings Clause, the last clause of the Fifth Amendment, limits the power of eminent domain by requiring that "just compensation" be paid if private property is taken for public use. The just compensation provision of the Fifth Amendment did not originally apply directly to the states, but the federal courts now hold that the Fourteenth Amendment extended the effects of that provision to the states. The federal courts, however, have shown much deference to the determinations of Congress, and even more so to the determinations of the state legislatures, what constitutes "public use". The property need not actually be used by the public; rather, it must be used or disposed of in such a manner as to benefit the public welfare or public interest. One exception that restrains the federal government is that the property must be used in exercise of a government's enumerated powers.
The owner of the property that is taken by the government must be justly compensated. When determining the amount that must be paid, the government does not need to take into account any speculative schemes that the owner claims the property was intended for use in. Normally, the fair market value of the property determines "just compensation". If the property is taken before the payment is made, interest accrues (though the courts have refrained from using the term "interest").
The federal courts have not restrained state and local governments from seizing privately owned land for private commercial development on behalf of private developers. This was upheld on June 23, 2005, when the Supreme Court issued its opinion in Kelo v. City of New London. This 5–4 decision remains controversial. The majority opinion, by Justice Stevens, found that it was appropriate to defer to the city's decision that the development plan had a public purpose, saying that "the city has carefully formulated a development plan that it believes will provide appreciable benefits to the community, including, but not limited to, new jobs and increased tax revenue." Justice Kennedy's concurring opinion observed that in this particular case the development plan was not "of primary benefit to . . . the developer" and that if that was the case the plan might have been impermissible. In the dissent, Justice Sandra Day O'Connor argued that this decision would allow the rich to benefit at the expense of the poor, asserting that "Any property may now be taken for the benefit of another private party, but the fallout from this decision will not be random. The beneficiaries are likely to be those citizens with disproportionate influence and power in the political process, including large corporations and development firms." She argued that the decision eliminates "any distinction between private and public use of property—and thereby effectively delete[s] the words 'for public use' from the Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment". A number of states, in response to Kelo, have passed laws and/or state constitutional amendments which make it more difficult for state governments to seize private land. Takings that are not "for public use" are not directly covered by the doctrine,[8] however such a taking might violate due process rights under the Fourteenth amendment, or other applicable law.
The exercise of the police power of the state resulting in a taking of private property was long held to be an exception to the requirement of government paying just compensation. However the growing trend under the various state constitution's taking clauses is to compensate innocent third parties whose property was destroyed or "taken" as a result of police action.[9]

Open House To Meet CCB0fC District-1 Candidate Scott Lee

OPEN HOUSE to meet SCOTT LEE
Candidate for District 1 Clatsop County Commissioner
Sunday, March 14 from 4-6 p.m.
1684 Irving Avenue
You don't have to live in District 1 to want the best people in county government - check out Scott! District 1 includes Hammond, Warrenton, and Astoria east to roughly 5th Street. The D1 Commissioner is Jeff Hazen, who has filed for re-election.
EVERYONE IS WELCOME - - PLEASE FORWARD THIS EMAIL.

Huhtala Opts Out Of State House Race Against Witt To Run For Clatsop County Board Of Commissioners - District 3 Seat

To: All Media FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 8, 2010 Contact: Peter Huhtala (503) 468-8038
Press Release
Huhtala opts to run for Clatsop County Commission over House Seat

Astoria, OR. Native Astorian Peter Huhtala announced Tuesday that he will run for Clatsop
County Commissioner in the third district instead of pursuing a race for an Oregon House seat.

“The reality is that my heart is right here in Astoria and it’s where I think I can do the most
good,” said Huhtala, Executive Director of the Columbia River Business Alliance and a longtime
river and fisheries conservation advocate.

“For the last several months whenever I talked to people about the matters that were important to them it kept coming back to local issues. Unemployment, affordable housing, and the
environment are major concerns. These are things I know how to do something about at the
County level.”

Huhtala is running for the Commission with the primary goals of focusing attention on both
increasing jobs in the County and preserving the quality of life that makes this area a great place
to live and raise a family.

“The future of our economy is directly linked to our respect for the variety and abundance the
region affords its people,” said Huhtala, who has been an outspoken opponent of proposed
Liquefied Natural Gas terminals on the Columbia River.

“If the County just jumps on board with projects that would put jobs related to fishing, recreation and tourism at risk then we are damaging the long-term future of our economy.

We need to have a jobs strategy that is both aggressive and smart.”

The group of volunteers that were supporting Huhtala as a House candidate expressed support
for his decision to run for the County Commissioner position. “Peter’s experience and passion
makes him perfect for the County Commission,” says Phyllis Cook who is Peter’s volunteer
campaign coordinator. “I fear that some decisions made by the Commission in recent years,
however well-intentioned, may have unfortunate consequences.

We desperately need a vision for the future.

Peter has the temperament and integrity to bring transparency and a breath of
fresh air to County Government.

He will be responsive to the community.”

Wyden-Merkley Bill Could Stop LNG In Oregon

March 2, 2010
By Dennis Newman - Natural Oregon

Read The Actual Bill And Its Introduction

Oregon’s two Senators are joining forces on a bill that could bring LNG projects in our state to a grinding halt.

Wyden and Merkley want to take away control over LNG projects from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). They’ve introduced a bill that would return that power to the states.

Read Full Article

Some Posers For PofA's Jack Bland And Cronies

Based on your story Jack, (Bland's Daily "A" L.T.T.E, "Not Really Secret") maybe "Secret" is too strong a word to use but private, one-on-one, meetings between you and Westerlund officials on the proposed Log Export project?

Private one-on-one meetings between, as you say, other Commissioners and Westerlund officials on the same project?

Well Jack, I am no scholar on “Quasi-Judicial Process” but, I think that is called “Ex Parte Contact’ isn’t it, (Off-record contact between an elected official and a party that stands to gain from that official’s involvement on an issue to be presented before him for review, deliberation and approval or denial.) in the least?

Maybe this isn’t secret but, is it really in the interest of those of us you serve in your capacity as a “Port of Astoria Commissioner” in the doing of “OUR”….”Public Business” ? Did you get that “OUR” part Jack?

Do you have any record of exactly what transpired at your meeting Jack or do we just take your word that nothing unethical hapened?

Again, I am no “Quasi-Judicial/Public Meeting Law” scholar but to keep this process pure and to assure complete transparency, isn’t this the way it is supposed to work…A Port Business prospect brings his proposal to “Port”, sits down with Jack Crider and lays out his plan with background and necessary information. Crider and staff take that information, “Vet” and “Due Diligence” it thoroughly and prepare a report packet that covers “Findings of Fact” with “Staff Recommendations” to be submitted to “Port of Astoria Commissioners” to be heard at a formal, advertised public meeting, along with the citizens they represent, for review, deliberation and approval/denial and with ample opportunity for input by both?

I don’t think in that process it allows you and your colleagues an opportunity to play “Power Brokers” by having your direct involvement way before you should, outside the interest of the citizens you represent and on top of that, harkens back to another “Port” blunder where “Off-Record presentations, purposely avoiding proper process have gotten us into a real mess and facing some serious litigation.

You, Jack, being the “Newby” on Port Commission, I want to ask you who it was that sat you down and told you this is how “Quasi-Judicial” process works and that it is OK for you to take it upon yourself to conduct yourself outside of it?

The sad irony about this, no pun intended, is that you blandly admit that you and your colleagues seem to think it is correct ethic, thereby prospering the perception of secrecy.

Am I wrong?

I’ll wait for your answer.

Clatsop County Commission Approves And Adopts A New Guiding Principles Statement

-Approved a new Guiding Principles statement for the board of commissioners. The new statement, drawn up by commissioners Jeff Hazen and Robert Mushen with help from Assistant County Manager Nicole Williams, replaces other statements with outdated and repetitive language. The new statement reads:

· We will conduct business in an open, honest and respectful manner.

· We will provide professional, positive leadership for the organization, our employees, as well as all citizens in the County.

· We will strive to be informed and follow a process that involves collaborative decision-making keeping in mind what is best for the entire County.

· We will work in partnership with the citizens of the County, Federal, State and local governments to achieve mutual goals.

· We will foster responsible growth management.

DEQ Meets On Bradwood Landing In Knappa March 3, 2010

At this meeting, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality will provide current information about environmental permits that will be required for the proposed Bradwood Landing Liquefied Natural Gas Terminal and Pipeline project.

Read Full Notice

From Columbia Riverkeeper; Oregon DEQ. Rejects Demands of NorthernStar LNG And 15 Other States File Amicus Brief Supporting Oregon's NSNG Lawsuit

Amicus Curiae Brief
Definition: Latin term meaning "friend of the court". The name for a brief filed with the court by someone who is not a party to the case.
"... a phrase that literally means "friend of the court" -- someone who is not a party to the litigation, but who believes that the court's decision may affect its interest." William H. Rehnquist, The Supreme Court, page 89.

Oregon Rejects Demands of NorthernStar LNG, 15 Other States File Amicus Brief Supporting Oregon’s Lawsuit Against NorthernStar
For Immediate Release:

Friday, February 19, 2010

Brett VandenHeuvel, Director, Columbia Riverkeeper – 503 348 2436

Dan Serres, Conservation Director, Columbia Riverkeeper - 503 890-2441
Portland, OR - NorthernStar’s proposed Bradwood Landing liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal suffered two serious setbacks that may endanger the project.

First, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) released a letter today Rejecting NorthernStar’s demand that DEQ issue permits in 2010.

“We are very pleased that the DEQ has clearly signaled its commitment to good science and sound process. The construction of an LNG terminal on the Columbia River would significantly impact our state’s land, air, water, and public safety,” stated Brian Pasko, Director of the Oregon Chapter of the Sierra Club.

The LNG terminal has suffered multi-year setbacks as state and federal agencies have asked for complete and accurate data on the project’s harm to salmon and impact to the Columbia River Estuary. NorthernStar, who recently stated they planned to start construction in 2010, demanded that DEQ issue permits within months. DEQ rejected these unusual demands.

DEQ’s February 17, 2010, letter states, “[NorthernStar’s] three principal demands are that DEQ: (1) drop its request for three-dimensional modeling,” (2) approve the project “without the benefit” of a consultation with the National Marine Fisheries Service, and (3) “agree to issue its certification by July 2010.” DEQ rejected each demand and said that NorthernStar would either provide the requested data and extend the permitting timeline or DEQ’s “decision will likely lead to a denial of certification.”

Brett VandenHeuvel, executive director of Columbia Riverkeeper, responded to DEQ’s letter. “NorthernStar’s demands indicate desperation. DEQ rejected these demands and has indicated that it’s willing to deny the project.”

In a second significant blow to the project, the Attorney Generals of fifteen other states, including Louisiana, Mississippi, and Ohio, filed an amicus brief against Bradwood LNG in a lawsuit challenging the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC) approval of the Bradwood project. The amicus brief supports Oregon’s position that Oregon has authority to deny the LNG terminals.

The amicus brief, filed by Joseph R. Biden III of Delaware, Martha Coakley of Massachusettes, and James “Buddy” Caldwell of Louisiana, among others, supports the arguments of Oregon , Washington, the Nez Perce Tribe, Columbia Riverkeeper, and other organizations.

“We’re thrilled that so many other states, along with Oregon and Washington, recognize the problems with the Bradwood application,” stated Scott Jerger from Field Jerger LLP, who represents Columbia Riverkeeper and other organizations.

An amicus or “friends of the court” brief may be submitted by non-parties who believe the issues in the case are so important that their interests are effected.

Ted Sickinger - The Oregonian: Oregon's LNG Terminal Futures Dependent On Global Market

Oregon Business News
Ted Sickinger - The Oregonian
January 23, 2010

Five years after energy developers started sniffing around Oregon as a likely spot to build an import terminal for liquefied natural gas, the air has come flooding out of the gas market like a whoopee cushion, making such proposals sound economically reckless.

With a worldwide recession in full swing, there's LNG to be had. More cargoes are expected to land this year in the U.S. -- the industry's market of last resort -- even though demand is low and gas prices have cratered.

Read Sickinger's Full Article

Oregon Senate Bill 1020 - They Gonna Try Again In 2010 Special Session?

SUMMARY
The following summary is not prepared by the sponsors of the measure and is not a part of the body thereof subject
to consideration by the Legislative Assembly. It is an editor’s brief statement of the essential features of the
measure as introduced.
Deletes definition of “applicant” for purposes of certain provisions related to removal-fill permitting
program.
Declares emergency, effective on passage.
A BILL FOR AN ACT
Relating to the removal-fill permitting program; creating new provisions; amending ORS 196.825; and
declaring an emergency.
Be It Enacted by the People of the State of Oregon:

It's Dead!, Dead!, Dead!......For Now!

Read The Bill

An Essay By Ted Thomas: The Impact Of Wal-Mart On Communities

The Social Impacts: "The supporters of the proposal frequently express their subscription to the idea that the benefits of a Walmart will outweigh the costs to the community. That somehow the perception alone of low prices will draw more people to our area and so recapture consumer's spending that is otherwise lost to Longview or Portland".......

Read Full Text

Dow Jones Online: Shale Gas Boom Stymies LNG Import Terminal Plans!

By Christine Buurma - DOW JONES NEWSWIRES

NEW YORK -(Dow Jones)- A surge in domestic U.S. natural-gas supplies is stalling ambitious plans for a raft of liquefied natural-gas import terminals along the country's coastlines........

Read The Details

NOAA: Port Of Bellingham Protest Of Lease Award To Port Of Newport Upheld Says GAO Letter

Read Letter

The End Result On Measures 66 & 67

SUMMARY REPORT SPECIAL ELECTION RUN DATE:01/26/10 10:55 PM
THIRD UNOFFICIAL REPORT CLATSOP COUNTY, OR.
JANUARY 26, 2010

PRECINCTS COUNTED (OF 33) . . . . . 33 - 100.00%
REGISTERED VOTERS - TOTAL . . . . . 20,636
BALLOTS COUNTED - TOTAL. . . . . . 13,100
VOTER TURNOUT - TOTAL . . . . . . 63.48%
Measure 66
Raises tax on household income above $250,000
Yes . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,308 - 56.10%
No. . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,719 - 43.90%
Measure 67
Raises $10 corporate minimum tax
Yes . . . . . . . . . . . . 7,133 - 54.90%
No. . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,860 - 45.10%

LNG Tanker Terrorism: The Video Clatsop County Manager Duane Cole Refuses To Let Into The Debate?

So says Don West in his Daily Astorian Letter to the Editor Read The Letter Then Watch The Video Linked Below

GRP: And Why Not? Why Withhold Valid Information From The Citizens Of Clatsop County And By Whose Authority Is Cole Charged With Doing So?


Title: Concerns over LNG shipments in Everett
Published: Thu, 31 Dec 2009
Description: (NECN: Scot Yount, Everett, Mass.) - A tanker of liquefied natural gas at port in Everett, Massachusetts. In the wake of 9/11, this very ship the Matthew, was denied entry to the port of Boston because it was deemed too dangerous, the threat o...

Watch Video

Enviro Groups Seek Rehearing Of Coos Bay LNG Port

Enviros seek rehearing of Coos Bay LNG port

Associated Press - KDRV.com

January 19, 2010

GRANTS PASS, Ore. -- Some environmental groups are joining the state of Oregon in asking federal regulators to reconsider approval for a liquefied natural gas port on Coos Bay and a related pipeline to the California border.

Read Full Piece

Scott Brown Wins Mass, Special Election Senate Race!

From: "The Fix" - Washington Post.com

Chris Cilliza - January 19, 2010

State Sen. Scott Brown won a remarkable upset victory over state Attorney General Martha Coakley (D) tonight in a Massachusetts Senate special election, a victory likely to spawn broad-ranging political and policy consequences heading into the midterm elections.

"Tonight the independent voice of Massachusetts has spoken," Brown said to raucuous cheers at his victory rally

Read The Details

City Of Astoria Eligible For H.U.D. 2010 Community Development Block Grant - Hearing Date Set

The City of Astoria is eligible to apply for a 2010 Community Development Block Grant from the Oregon Business Development Department.

Community Development Block Grant Funds come from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The grants can be used for public facilities and housing improvements, primarily for persons with low and moderate incomes.

Approximately $14 million will be awarded to qualified Oregon cities.


Read The Details

National Weather Service North Coast Weather Watch

National Weather Service Severe Weather Alerts

Cathlamet Mayor Weighs-In On LNG Debate And Discloses Public Employee Signing Agreement And Others Involved With NSNG Activities

From: Wahkiakum County Eagle Newspaper

"To The Eagle:

I am writing to clarify aspects of your coverage of the Town Council’s LNG “debate” published in The Eagle’s 12/24 issue. First, my position is that the Town of Cathlamet should monitor the ongoing negotiations between Wahkiakum County and NorthernStar, the Texas-based organization that plans to construct a LNG facility several miles from Cathlamet -- not become a signatory to any agreement they might make.

Second, we must stay well-informed because the issues under negotiation could potentially impact our town’s waterfront, require zoning changes and render our 2006 Master Plan obsolete. Given that, it seems appropriate for town leaders, including the mayor and council members, to monitor developments proactively so as not to be caught off guard."

* Cathlamet Deputy Fire Chief signs a Non-Disclosure Agreement with Northern Star Natural Gas?
* Members of the Cathlamet fire department, funded by NorthernStar, have over the past three years undergone LNG fire training.
* Town Councilor David Goodroe, the current Executive Director of the Lower Columbia Economic Development Council, said at a meeting that the LCEDC has for several years discussed with NorthernStar and other parties a plan to base armed escort/security vessels in the Elochoman Marina and place LNG escort tugboats elsewhere on Cathlamet’s waterfront.

Read Full Letter To The Editor

October, 2009 - Northern Star Natural Gas Attempts To Float A Securities Services Agreement With Wahkiakum County Board Of Commissioners

Citizens: Investigate potential LNG security pact liabilities for 8 - 10 security jobs manned by Wahkiakum County Sheriff Officers.

Published on Thu, Oct 1, 2009 by Rick Nelson - The Wahkiakum County Eagle

"Tread carefully", That's the message a group of citizens gave the Wahkiakum County board of commissioners for their negotiation of a security services agreement with NorthernStar Natural Gas LLC.

"Island resident George Exum asked if the public would be able to review the proposed agreement prior to the commissioners voting on it.Commissioners and Garrett agreed the public could examine the agreement, with classified sections blacked out.In response to a question, Garrett said the facility is licensed as a receiving facility and would not be retrofitted to export natural gas. "We've offered to sign a letter that we'll not do that," he said."

"Commissioner Marsyla commented that she feels the potential of 8-10 jobs is "huge." "I truly will be really sad if this plant goes in and those 10 jobs end up in Columbia County and there are none here," she said. "I agree we need to look at the contract."

Read The Details

The Basic Voter Facts On The January 26, 2010 Vote On Measures 66 & 67

So, How Are You Going To Vote On These Issues?
The Basic Voter Facts On Measures 66 & 67

LUBA Rejects Opponent "Public Input" Challenges To Clatsop County's Land Use Review On Proposed Bradwood Landing Project By Texas Based, Northern Star

LUBA REJECTS CHALLENGE TO BRADWOOD REMAND RECORD

The Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals has rejected a challenge filed by Bradwood Landing LNG opponents against the public input process on Clatsop County’s land-use review of the proposed liquefied natural gas project.

"While LUBA rejected opponents’ objection to the redaction of evidence, the panel, in the same ruling, also turned down an objection filed by NorthernStar claiming that some new evidence was allowed into the record of the remand hearing, in violation of the board of commissioner’s pre-hearing policy."

Read Clatsop County Press Release

Fragile Recovery On Horizon For Housing

By Chris Arnold - NPR News
December 31, 2009

Housing has been an albatross around the economy's neck, dragging it down over the past couple of years. Although there are still some big problems, there also are signs of life — along with a sense of hope that the market is starting to pull out of this historic crash.

Read Details

Court Tosses Port of Astoria's Latest LNG Move!!!

By CASSANDRA PROFITA - The Daily Astorian

The Port of Astoria has tried and failed once again to get Oregon LNG's lawsuit against the agency thrown out of U.S. District Court.

According to court records, Magistrate Judge John Jelderks denied the Port's second motion to dismiss the company's breach of contract suit this week.

Read Cassandra Profita's Report

The Marine Highway Bill 2009

"By Savannah Morning News

MUCH HAS been made over the need to renew America's highway infrastructure, with attention mainly focused on better facilitating interstate commerce.

Largely absent from the national conversation has been the idea of reviving an obvious alternative to land-based transportation: Coastal shipping."


Read The Details

Oregon Crabbers Seeing A Banner Year For Dungeness

BY APRIL BAER - OPB News
Portland, OR December 28, 2009 10:59 a.m.

Photo - First Load In! - By: Chris McGee - FV Footloose

Northwest crabbers are hauling in a bumper crop of Dungeness this winter. April Baer reports.
A typical Dungeness fishing season for Oregon yields about 12 million pounds of crab. This year, over the first few weeks of the season, fisherman have caught about at least 10 million pounds. And the fishing continues until August.

Read Full Report

Hard Times This Past Year Show The Value Of Things Money Can't Buy

BY APRIL BAER - OPB News
McMinnville, OR December 28, 2009 10:53 a.m.

The end of the year tends to put us all in an introspective mood.
Angie Blackwell: “How has the past year changed me? One of the main changes I think is I’ve really come to appreciate and enjoy the things that money doesn’t buy – since I don’t have any, it’s a good thing!”

Read Full Report

Wal-Mart Proposes New Portland Store Under Much Criticism By City Official

Teresa Blackman - KGW News
Posted on December 23, 2009 at 8:16 AM

PORTLAND – Walmart announced Tuesday it plans to build a new store in North Portland and also expand its existing 82nd Avenue store.

The new store is proposed to be built in the Hayden Meadows shopping center and would employ approximately 300 people, mostly in full-time position, officials said.

Watch Video Report And Read Details

Kenny Roberts Re-Rides The Yamaha TZ750 At The Indy Mile

Kenny Roberts rides a piece of Motorcycle Dirt Track Racing History - The Yamaha (Beast) TZ750 at The Indy Mile

F.E.R.C. Approves Jordan Cove LNG Terminal - Governor Kulongoski In A Later Release Announces State Will Appeal

GovernorTo Appeal F.E.R.C. Approval Of Jordan Cove
With Bradwood Landing still in Appeal in U.S. Appeals Court, Governor says he will take Jordan Cove ruling to U.S. Appeals as well, if necessary, to overturn approval.
Posted 12/17/2009 12:20 PM ET

By Jeff Barnard, AP Environmental Writer Via Statesman Journal

GRANTS PASS, Ore. — Federal regulators have approved construction of a liquefied natural gas terminal on Coos Bay and a pipeline to distribute the gas through Southern Oregon to the California state line.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission voted 3-1 Thursday in Washington, D.C., to approve the Jordan Cove project..........

Read Details

Congratulations To Robert Mushen For Getting The Nod From Clatsop County Board Of Commissioners

Robert Mushen, one of 6 candidates in consideration for the District-5 seat of ousted Commissioner Ann Samuelson, won unanimous approval from The Clatsop County Board of Commissioners after Kristin Frost Albrecht was denied the seat in an earlier 2-2 vote by The Commission.

Mushen, already being touted by some as Samuelson's handpicked replacement to continue with the existing agenda, may be wise enough to have been a keen observer of what brought on these recalls that have burdened this community by posturing himself in a position of leadership that serves the citizens of Clatsop County in the doing of their "Public Business" as opposed to serving "The Machine" and its agenda itself.

Mushen claims that he will reserve his position on LNG pending the development of further knowledge on the issue.

Hopefully he will learn more than just the PR on the subject from Bradwood Landing's "Talking Heads" as seems to be the depth of it on the majority of that panel.

Maybe, just maybe, he may be the one to push to explore other long-term, sustainable job opportunities that will put hundreds and hundreds of Clatsopians to work before this group commits this community to a lifetime of a bad marriage to what many would call a huge mistake.

A Reasoned Debate On Measures 66 & 67

By Jeff Mapes, The Oregonian

December 09, 2009, 8:42AMEconomists Joe Cortright and Eric Fruits debate the Oregon tax measures on the Jan. 26 ballot in this video from the Populations program on Portland Community Media. If you're looking for a thoughtful discussion of the issue, this is the place.

Read Details and Watch Video

Thank You Astoria Rotary International!!

Walking by the kitchen table this morning, saw a brand spanking new 'Webster's New Dictionary' lying there and asked KC, "What's this?" and she said,"Every Fourth Grader at Lewis and Clark Elementary got one with their own names in it."

Sure enough, there it was, our Olivya's name printed very nicely and below it "Presented By Astoria Rotary Club".

To them I would like to say, "Thank you very much for your valueable and thoughtful gift to our Grand'daughter and her classmates.".

Palomar Pipeline Oppostion Rallies At Northwest Natural Gas

By Keely Chalmers - kgw.com

Posted on December 8, 2009 at 5:41 PM

PORTLAND, Ore. -- The fight to stop a new natural gas pipeline in Oregon heated up despite Tuesday's cold weather.

Northwest Natural wants to lay a new pipeline through 47 miles of Mt. Hood National Forest, clearing a 100-foot swath for the line. According to the company, the 59-year-old line currently serving metro Portland is too limited in capacity.

Read Full Report

Clatsop County Commissioner Roberts stays in office, says recall attempt has been 'very divisive' - Recall supporters happy to have 'raised awareness' despite failed campaign

By CASSANDRA PROFITA - The Daily Astorian

GEARHART - Patricia Roberts has survived the attempt to recall her from the Clatsop County Board of Commissioners.

Read The Cassandra Profita Report

Final Unofficial Count Shows Roberts Keeps Her Seat With A 58.57% To 41.43% Margin

PRECINCTS COUNTED (OF 6) . . . . . 6 - 100.00 %
REGISTERED VOTERS - TOTAL . . . . . 3,940
BALLOTS COUNTED - TOTAL. . . . . . . 1,945
VOTER TURNOUT - TOTAL . . . . . . 49.37%
RECALL OF PATRICIA ROBERTS,
COUNTY COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 2
Yes . . . . . . . . . . . . 805 - 41.43%
No. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,138 - 58.57%

Weyerhaeuser Sells Warrenton Mill To Hampton Affiliates

FEDERAL WAY, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Weyerhaeuser Company (NYSE:WY) today announced it has signed a Purchase & Sale Agreement for its Warrenton lumber mill with Hampton Affiliates. Terms of the sale were not disclosed. The transaction includes the mill and its land.

GRP: Hampton Affiliates plans to terminate all Weyerhaeuser employees (140 active and laid-off employees) and close the facility at the end of January and proceed with re-design and remodel of the facility before rehire of personel.

Read Press Release

Energy Action Northwest Files Complaint Against Columbia RiverKeeper To IRS

What has been, since November 25, 2009, a concerted onslaught against Columbia RiverKeeper by local pro-LNG interests, pro-LNG group, Energy Action Northwest, a coalition of businesses and unions that stand to gain financially from LNG siting and pipeline construction, attempts to ramp the battle up a knotch it appears.

Read The Details

Six Compete For Recalled Commissioner Ann Samuelson's District - 5 Seat

Monday, November 30, 2009

SIX APPLICANTS SEEK DIST. 5 COMMISSIONER SEAT

Six citizens have submitted applications for appointment to the vacant Dist. 5 seat on the Clatsop County Board of Commissioners.

Kristin Frost Albrecht, Robert Linton Mushen and Lianne Thompson, all of Cannon Beach, and John Dunzer, Russ Earl and Brian Pogue of Seaside all applied by the deadline of 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 30.

The Citizens of District - 5 and Clatsop County will have an opportunity to "Meet-and-Greet" the candidates at 4:30 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2 at the Seaside Library, 1131 Broadway

Read The Full Details And View The Candidates Resumes'

How To Evaluate A City Manager; Warrenton Seems To Have Never Done This Before

GRP; At least that's what the Sound Bytes seem to convey on Radio News this morning.
Well, below is a link to a little primer that may help.

Written by Margaret T. Simpson - Public CEO.com
October 15, 2009

California is a big state with 480 cities. That’s a lot of annual performance evaluations for city managers – isn’t it?Not necessarily. “Most cities don’t do evaluations of city managers,” said Bill Garrett, executive director of the California City Management Foundation. He said the increased use of employment agreements has stimulated the review process -- when it does happen.


Talking City Manager Performance Reviews

Homage To A Fine Horsewoman; Linda Champion Inducted Into The North Carolina State Fair, Livestock Hall Of Fame

Three inducted into N.C. State Fair Livestock Hall of Fame

Leon Brickhouse, Linda Champion, Gregory Peele

Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler inducted three longtime livestock supporters into the N.C. State Fair Livestock Hall of Fame Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009 at the fairgrounds.

The ceremony honored each person’s outstanding contributions to State Fair supporter, horse and swine programs.

Inducted were Leon Brickhouse of Elizabeth City, Gregory Peele of Pikeville and the late Linda Champion, whose daughter Carol Ramsey of Wendell accepted the honor on her behalf. Each inductee received a plaque and pin, and will have their pictures hung with previous honorees in the Livestock Hall of Fame Room in the Jim Graham Building.

Brickhouse, honored in the supporter category, has been involved with the N.C. State Fair livestock shows for 59 years. In Pasquotank County, he helped to complete its 4-H Livestock Arena in 1974 and provides a working show ring and equipment on his farm for youth exhibitors to train. As part of the supporters program at the Fair, he has raised more than $300,000 of buyer support for youth livestock exhibitors and assisted in more than 200 youth livestock projects.

Champion, honored in the horse category, was the first full-time manager of the James B. Hunt Jr. Horse Complex and helped increase entries and sponsorships for the N.C. State Fair horse show. She grew up riding horses on her family’s farm just east of Raleigh and also had horses on her Merri-Hill Farm in Knightdale. Champion is survived by sister Gayle Quinn, brother Patrick McGee and children Carol Ramsey, Victoria Paige, Monty Champion and Page Champion, as well as eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Peele, honored in the swine category, has exhibited in the junior market barrow, purebred breeding swine, performance market hogs and open market barrow shows since 1962 as part of his family’s Nahunta Farms. His father, Oland Peele, was in the inaugural class of the Livestock Hall of Fame in 1980. Peele is on the board of directors for several agricultural organizations, including the Tobacco Heritage Museum, N.C. Chester White Breeders Association and the N.C. Pure Bred Swine Breeders Association. He has also been active in FFA, 4-H and the Grange since his youth.

Federal Fish Biologists Question Bradwood Landing LNG On Columbia River

Federal fish biologists question Columbia River LNG project

By Scott Learn - The Oregonian
November 21, 2009, 7:00AM

The National Marine Fisheries Service submitted a lengthy list of questions and concerns about the proposed Bradwood Landingliquefied natural gas terminal this week, posing additional hurdles for the Columbia River project.

Full Details

527 Groups?

Committee for County Prosperity ID: 13954( Nature of Committee:
support good works of commissioners asking community to retain) Orestar Transactions show at least $6,000 in cash contrbutions from Bradwood Landing LLC funneled through this organization and intended for Samuelson, Hazen and Roberts
Oregonians to Maintain Community Standards ID: 1579 Lists Samuelson and Hazen on their roster of support

A 527 organization or 527 group is a type of American tax-exempt organization named after a section of the United States tax code, 26 U.S.C. § 527. A 527 group is created primarily to influence the nomination, election, appointment or defeat of candidates for public office. Although candidate committees and political action committees are also created under Section 527, the term is generally used to refer to political organizations that are not regulated by the Federal Election Commission or by a state elections commission, and are not subject to the same contribution limits as PACs. However, On September 18, 2009 the Washington D.C Federal Appeals Court ruled that these groups have a First Amendment right to raise and spend freely to influence elections so long as they do not coordinate their activities with a candidate or a party.

Oregon LNG Clears Two Hurdles Over Port of Astoria Lease

Oregon LNG wins two battles over Port of Astoria lease

By Scott Learn - The Oregonian
November 18, 2009, 5:45PM

The liquefied natural gas company Oregon LNG has gotten two important thumbs up on its controversial lease with the Port of Astoria, boosting prospects for its plans to build a terminal on 92 acres near Youngs Bay.

Full Details

City Of Astoria Planning Commission To Hold Public Hearing To Amend Astor-East Urban Renewal Plan November 24, 2009

The City of Astoria Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, 1095 Duane Street, Astoria. The purpose of the hearing is to consider the following requests:

2. Astoria Astor-East Urban Renewal Plan Amendment - The Astoria Planning Commission will discuss the draft Astor-East Urban Renewal Plan Amendment and make a recommendation to the City Council regarding the proposed amendment. The amendment would allow for an increase in the maximum indebtedness (the financial limit of the Plan), and will end the additional urban renewal tax (special levy) within the City for the Astor-East Urban Renewal District. The Planning Commission will make a recommendation to the City Council conerning possible adoption of the Plan Amendment at a City Council meeting tenatively scheduled for December 7, 2009.

Public Transit Safety Tip

The Proper Way To Hold Onto A Safety Rail While In Transit
(That would be the gentleman standing at the door is the example you want to follow)

Oregon DSL: Revision To Rules Authorizing Structures On And Uses Of State-Owned Submerged/Submersible Lands

GRP Note:The public comment period for these draft rules has been extended. The new deadline is 5 PM, Thursday, December 24, 2009. We hope to take these rules to the Land Board for its consideration at the Board’s February 2010 meeting.


What is This Notice About?
The Department of State Lands (DSL) has for some time had rules governing the management of, and issuing of authorizations to place structures on, and to use state-owned submerged and submersible land. These rules (OAR 141-082-0000 through 141-082-0210) were last amended in 2002. Since then, these rules have served DSL well. However, a number of changes, most of which are relatively minor, needed to be made to them to clarify various provisions; streamline some of the processes used; and to ensure that the definitions of terms used in the rules are the same as those recently used in other rules. These rules also needed to be reorganized to reflect the format now used when creating new rules or amending previously adopted rules. Consequently, DSL has revised these rules accordingly. In amending these rules, DSL has also increased the application fee for a public facility license and the fees to register structures on state-owned submerged and submersible land in order to enable the agency to recover more of the costs it incurs to administer its registration program.

Go To Oregon DSL Site For Details

The Truth About Tough-On-Crime Josh Marquis

The truth About Tough-On-Crime Josh Marquis

By Doug Bates, The Oregonian

November 14, 2009, 10:37AM

All three finalists for Oregon's U.S. attorney have impressive resumés, and I'm sure that whoever among them is appointed by President Barack Obama will do an excellent job.

Personally, however, I'm pulling for Josh Marquis, the outspoken and sometimes controversial Clatsop County district attorney. .............

Read Full Article

Clatsop County Commissioner Jeff Hazen Comments On Recent And Upcoming Recall Elections

From Jeff Hazen's Blog
These Three Things

First of all, I would like to thank all of those that voted to keep me in office during the recent recall attempt. I will forever be grateful to those that supported me through this time. I am proud to serve District 1 and the entire county and will continue to work hard for everyone.

Secondly, it saddens me that Ann was recalled by just 4 votes. Many people just don't know how hard she worked for Clatsop County. I have never seen a county commissioner work harder than her. She worked tirelessly to make sure that those that needed help the most were taken care of. She fought a hard battle to keep her seat and the margin of loss goes to show that there was not an overwhelming majority unhappy with the job she was doing. It has been an honor for me to serve with Ann and I applaud her job that she did as a commissioner.

Third, the recall effort against Patricia is moving forward. Make no mistake about it, this is a continuation of the effort to overthrow your county government. Patricia also works tirelessly for the county. She studies the issues very closely and can be relied on for very thoughtful consideration no matter what comes before the commission. It would be a travesty for her to lose her seat on the commission. We need hard working people like Patricia on our commission.

I can't help but ponder that there are those behind the recall efforts that don't like the idea of strong-willed women in leadership in the county. Sad, truly sad.
posted by Jeff at 10:04 AM on Nov 11, 2009

Oregon LNG/Calpine: A Look Back. How Easily We Forget

Remember November, 2004, The big announcement that Calpine Energy Group had signed, what many thought was a ridiculous piece of paper calle d a potential 65 year irrevokeable lease with The Port of Astoria?

Shortly after, Martin Nygaard announced his own possible deal for an LNG Facility on historic Tansey Point he is somehow, still, leasing from The City of Warrenton, a piece of land bequethed to the citizens of Warrenton by The Carruthers Familty for the benefit and pleasure of those citizens. Tansey Point is the site of The Anson Dart Treaties signing where something like 52 treaties between Dart, representing the U.S., and the area Native American Tribes and clans, gave over their lands with the treaties never ratified.

It is now a Timber Storage/Shipping Yard for Warrenton Fiber.

The photo above reflects to a reasonable scale what that prospect with those tanks would look like. The LNG Tanker sitting at dock, 2.4, statistical minimum, times a week, not shown, would be twice the length of two tanks combined

The other photo is of the Skipanon Peninsula site with distances to habitated areas in proximity to the Skipanon, OLNG/Calpine site.

Samuelson Recall Confirmed - Recount Holds

Read The Details

Columbia River Business Alliance Asks Governor To Investigate Port Lands Deal With Oregon LNG

Lease deal for proposed LNG terminal site in Astoria draws fire

By Scott Learn, The Oregonian - Oregonlive.com

November 07, 2009, 10:02PM

Opponents of a proposed liquid natural gas terminal near Astoria are asking Gov. Ted Kulongoski for an investigation into a lease of public land to Oregon LNG to build the plant. They question the lease deal, negotiated in 2004 by the Port of Astoria's since-fired director, the Oregon Department of State Lands and Calpine, the predecessor to Oregon LNG.

Read Full Article
OLNG's Hansen Pitches His Side Of The Story
The Hansen And Gearin Audio Interviews With Oregon DOJ

KGW News:Astoria Red Lion Deck Collapses Dumping Five!

Read Details and View Video

Susan Trabucco's OP/ED On The Oregon DOJ's Port Of Astoria Investigation

Volume 4: Issue 11 - 11/01/2009
By Susan Trabucco - Coast River Business Journal

Attorney General John Kroger must be older than he looks. Or maybe, under the tutelage of Clatsop County District Attorney Josh Marquis, he’s just a student of early 1970’s political history. Because the recent media assault on former Port of Astoria executive director Peter Gearin and me looks like something straight out of the dirty tricks playbook of old Tricky Dick himself:

Read Full Article

Listen To The Peter Hansen DOJ Interview and Read The, updating, Peter Gearin DOJ Interview Transcript

GRP Straw Poll Results On Recall Election Replacement Process

Asked the question: Should The Clatsop County Recall Elections Be Successful, Which Would You Prefer As The Process For Replacing "The Recalled"?

Total Participants: 60

A District Vote By Ballot In A Special Election
43 (71%)
Replacement By Selection Of A Quorum Of County Commissioners
17 (28%)

Coos Bay, Oregon: Jordan Cove Developers Push LNG Project Back To 2011

From Oregonlive.com
Breaking News, Business, Environment, Oregon Coast
LNG developers push back plans to 2011 for North Spit of Coos Bay
By The Associated Press - Oregonlive.com

October 31, 2009, 8:37PM COOS BAY -- Developers hoping to build a liquefied natural gas terminal on the North Spit of Coos Bay have pushed back plans to start construction until spring 2011.

Read Article
And Here? Broadwater LNG, Another Sure Deal Dies On The Vine In April Of 2009 And Look Who Stopped it. Wasn't FERC, It Was The State Of New York

Eastern Oregon Wind Energy Success Puts Pressure On Power Grid

Wind energy's success creates a power grid challenge

By Matthew Preusch, The Oregonian

October 29, 2009, 8:40PM

The rows of white turbines spinning over wheat fields and ridgelines in eastern Oregon are ample evidence that renewable energy from wind is real and growing. So much so that the aging network of transmission lines and power stations that carries energy around the region is loaded to its limits.

Read Article

Clatsop County: Who's At Top?

Not The District Attorney!

Not The Sheriff!

Not The Board Of Commissioners!

Why, It's Us Isn't It?

So now, here we are faced with choosing the possible replacement for one of two of those County Commssioners that just faced a "Recall Election" and a third Commissioner facing, yet, another "Recall Election" sometime in early December and we, the one's these five serve, are going to be witness to these five Commisseioners, again, choosing and replacing themselves with their own choice without our direct involvement and approval other than some cursory verbal input that, recently, has not been heeded in any way whatsoever by most of these same officials?

I've got a poll over on the left here and I swear I have not tampered with it, says overwhelmingly, by those that voted, that those replacements should be chosen by a vote of the particular district constituents so, why is this not happening?

This may not be the process of our own County Charter but, isn't this the process for recall elections generally, throughout the state?

Regardless, this is one we all need to show up for to make sure the replacements are interested for certain to serve the interests of "Us", "The People" instead of particular agenda......really!!

Recall-October 27, 2009: And The Winner Is?

Apathy Maybe?

PRECINCTS COUNTED (OF 13) . . . . . 13 100.00%
REGISTERED VOTERS - TOTAL . . . . . 8,396
BALLOTS COUNTED - TOTAL. . . . . . . 4,254
VOTER TURNOUT - TOTAL . . . . . . 50.67

Recall of Jeff Hazen,
COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 1
Yes . . . . . . . . . . . . 978 43.90
No. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,250 56.10
Total . . . . . . . . . 2,228

Recall of Ann Samuelson,
COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 5
Yes . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,013 50.10
No. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,009 49.90

Clatsop County District Attorney Josh Marquis Selected A Finalist For U.S. Attorney

News Release. . .
U.S. Senator Ron Wyden
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 27, 2009
CONTACT: Tom Towslee, 503-326-7525
Wyden Forwards U.S. Attorney, U.S. Marshal Finalists to President Obama

Portland, OR – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden forwarded to President Obama today the names of the finalists chosen by a selection committee for U.S. Attorney and U.S. Marshal for the State of Oregon.

The 13-member selection committee appointed by Wyden and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley made their recommendations to Wyden after interviewing candidates and deliberating over last weekend.

The committee chaired by Deschutes County District Attorney Mike Dugan was comprised of a diverse group of police, sheriff, district attorney, defense attorney, victim’s rights, and judicial representatives from each region of the state.

The committee was charged with recommending three individuals for each position. There was a tie for third in the voting for U.S. Marshal. As a result, Wyden is forwarding all four names to the White House for that position.

The finalists recommended for the position of U.S. Attorney by the selection committee:
Clatsop County District Attorney Josh Marquis
Oregon Department of Justice Attorney Amanda Marshall
Acting U.S. Attorney Kent Robinson

The finalists recommended for the position of U.S. Marshal by the selection committee:
Lane County Sheriff Russell Burger
Portland Police Bureau Commander James Ferraris
Former Oregon State Police Captain Gerald Gregg
Former Gresham Police Chief Carla Piluso

The White House and Justice Department will now review the recommendations, and after further consultation with Sen. Wyden, President Obama will make a selection for each position. The nominees must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate once the President makes his nominations for each position.

Tom Towslee
State Communications Director
Office of Senator Ron Wyden
503.326.7525
503.477.0307 (cell)
tom_towslee@wyden.senate.gov

The President Of Europe? Yes Indeedy!!!

Daily chart

Europe's first president and who's in the running
Oct 26th 2009

From - Economist.com

Who is tipped to become the first president of Europe?

THE Czech Republic is the only nation left of the 27 member states of the EU yet to ratify the Lisbon treaty but it may do so this week. The treaty creates a new permanent president.

Read Article

First U.S. Tsunami Shelter To Be Built In Cannon Beach

First U.S. Tsunami Shelter Planned as Earthquake Looms
Richard A. Lovett for National Geographic News
October 23, 2009

When a major earthquake triggers a giant tsunami in the U.S. Pacific Northwest, as experts predict, one coastal town will be ready.
Residents of the small Oregon town of Cannon Beach are preparing to build the first tsunami-resistant shelter in the U.S. (Get tsunami facts.)

Read Article

Obama: Declares National Emergency For Swine Flu

Pres. Obama declares national emergency for swine flu
08:40 AM PDT on Sunday, October 25, 2009

KGW News - Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The swine flu outbreak is more prevalent than ever and vaccine production is running behind, and that's helped prompt President Barack Obama to declare a national emergency.

Read Full Details

How Much Does A Recall Cost?

Well, this one, sent to us by Ted Thomas, indicates the last recall, I believe this is for Richard Lee, cost us $10,000 or so but, there's a figure of a little over $5,000 for "Amortization"?

"Amortization" for what?

Was somebody trying to slip in the purchase of a new piece of equipment at our expense?

Regardless, knock that number out and this particular Recall cost us about $5,000...right?

Wonder if the County "Bean Counters" would be interested in explaining this one away.

Thomas's Letter To The Daily Astorian Explans The Numbers Much Better

Bradwood Landing's Open Letter

This is an Open Letter to The Daily Astorian from Bradwood Landing so, I will preume it is "Public Information".

It states, well click on it and read it for yourselves.

The question is: Do you Believe it?

Clatsop County Commissioner Patricia Roberts Recall Moves A Step Closer to Reality

Accountability for District 2, a citizens group organized to petition for a Recall Election of Clatsop County Commissioner Patricia Roberts, delivered to Clatsop County Clerk, Catherine Garber on Wednesday, October 21, 2009, 525 signatures for validation and approval to establish the measure to take Roberts' recall from public office to a vote. The minimum required, qualified signatures for Roberts district is 441.

It will take about 10 days for County Elections to validiate the signatures and once done and approved, Roberts will have 5 days to resign from her District 2 seat or announce her intention to stand for a Recall Election with the election occuring within 35 days which would be around December 8, 2009.

If you are a member of Clatsop County Commission District 2 and wish to vote, make certain your voter registration information is current well ahead of the dealine dates with the Elections Office.

Clatsop Community College Presents: Laree Johnson - "Tea Party Panache"

Join us for
A little TEA....
"Tea Party Panache"

Sponsored by Clatsop Community College
Presented by LaRee Johnson

Mark your calendar for November 14th, Saturday
Begins at 10 AM
With "Tea, Manners & Mode,"
The History of Tea,
What did ladies wear to Tea 100 years ago?
Tea Trivia, Tea sampling, Proper Tea preparation
And LUNCH is provided (along with the recipes)

Enjoy old friends and new ones with conversation
about relevant (and maybe irreverent) issues.

The pleasure of your company is requested...
Call Paula at 503.338-2408
To Reserve your spot (of Tea) & register today!

(Ask about the College "Gold Card" discount)

Oregon D.O.J.:Ex-Port Director, Gearin Found To Have Used Official Misconduct In Calpine Dealings

The Oregon Department of Justice, in a letter from its Chief Counsel, Sean J. Riddell, has concluded, in its investigation into potential "Official Misconduct and other possible criminal violations by staff or directors of The Port of Astoria" that, after interviewing 31 people, issuing 11 Oregon Attorney General Subpoenas, reviewing hundreds of pages of documents and a three hour interview with former Port Director Gearin himself, that they believe that they could prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that Peter Gearin, acting as Executive Director of The Port of Astoria committed the predicated acts of Offical Misconduct in the first degree, a class A misdemeanor under ORS 162.415.

Specifically Oregon D.O.J. believes that the evidence shows that Mr. Gearin used his position as Port of Astoria Executive Director to secure employment with Calpine Energy Group for his then girlfriend and current wife, Susan Trabucco.

Calpine Energy Group paid Ms. Trabucco $41,030.28 during her employment from October 2004 to February 2005(The Port/Calpine Lease was announced to the public on or about November 4, 2004)

Because of The Statute of Limitations on Official Misconduct, which is two years, Oregon D.O.J. is barred from prosecuting Mr. Gearin and D.O.J. has also found no additional evidence to justify any additional criminal investigation

Click Here To Go To Oregon DOJ Web Site And Investigation File Download Access

Is This Photo A Joke?

Hmmmm!

Weathering The Wal-Mart Storm

Weathering Wal-Mart: Local merchants find ways to compete with retail giant

By Carl Manning - Associated Press - In Deseret News
Published: Friday, Aug. 1, 2003 9:03 a.m. MDT

HIAWATHA, Kan. — Francis Duncan operates a farm and home store and Don Koontz runs the downtown hardware store. Like other local merchants, their biggest competitor is Wal-Mart.
"We don't try to compete with them; there's no way. We let them do their thing and we do ours," Duncan said. "If they get something we have, we just close it out."

Suggestions For Weathering The Storm

GRP: Do You Have A North Coast Business? Tell Us How You Plan To Compete With Wal-Mart.

A Public Discussion On Wal-Mart - October 22, 2009

Don't Mourn!

Take Action!

Public Meeting

Conducted By: Lori Durheim
Thurs. October 22 @ 7 PM
The Red Building
Astoria
Hundreds of Other Communities Have Said NO! to Wal-Mart
We Can, Too!

Sunday - October 18th - Columbia Theater

This is a Short Notice Alert!! for this event at Columbia Theater, October 18, 2009, 3:00PM

Rising Tide North America: October 24, 2009, A Day Of Global Climate Action

350 Reasons Carbon Trading Won’t Work
Oct 16th, 2009

Rising Tide North America and Carbon Trade Watch would like you to join us on the October 24th day of global climate action to spread the word about the biggest financial scam in history – Carbon Trading.

Read Details

The USS Ranger On The Coast: Should We Let This One Get Away From Us Too?

GRP: A few sites down here were looked at favorably by this foundation and will likely be back for more talks that could offer 30-plus jobs and a crapload of tourism and spin-off revenue. Should we be agressive in attracting this historic attraction here?

A Brief History Of The USS Ranger


From the USS Ranger Foundation

The US Navy announced that the USS Ranger Foundation’s Phase I application for donation of the super-carrier ex-USS Ranger has been approved and moved the group into Phase two of the four-phase process.

Now the Work Begins!
The USS Ranger Museum is a privately funded project, with individual and corporate support, and therefore will not be utilizing City of Portland/Metro funding as a revenue base.
Phase two of the process has a 12 month timeline, during which the exact location of the museum complex will be finalized, environmental, marketing, business, neighborhood support and other studies will be completed and updated. Fund raising will increase, and national and international friends will be called upon to support the project.


Read The Details

OPB's Think Out Loud: North Coast Wal-Mart To Be Featured Thursday, October 15, 2009

Go To OPB Think Out Loud Page

From The Daily Astorian:Clatsop Commissioner Samuelson's Calls In Question

10/9/2009 11:46:00 AM

Samuelson calls raise anxiety

Commissioner contacts employers of people who signed petition against her; ballots are in the mail

By JOE GAMM - The Daily Astorian

As ballots go out for the commissioners' recall election today, some Clatsop County employees may be having second thoughts about signing the petitions.

For some families who depend on the county for their jobs, Clatsop County Commissioner Ann Samuelson has applied a low-heat, high-pressure approach to her fight to stay in office.

Read Full Article

From KGW:Obama? The Nobel Peace Prize?

Oct 9, 10:52 AM EDT
President Barack Obama wins Nobel Peace Prize
By KARL RITTER and MATT MOORE Associated Press Writers

GRP: By any stretch of the imagination....I'm having difficulty swallowing this one! What is this saying...Let's go ahead and give this guy the award and hope he might earn it somewhere down the road?

OSLO (AP) -- President Barack Obama won the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize on Friday in a stunning decision designed to encourage his initiatives to reduce nuclear arms, ease tensions with the Muslim world and stress diplomacy and cooperation rather than unilateralism.

Read Article

So, How Do I Finance That Solar Power Unit?

Something New Under The Sun, A Way To Finance Solar Power
BY ROB MANNING - OPB News
Portland, OR October 8, 2009 8:28 a.m.

A major San Francisco-based solar company wants to put solar panels on your roof, and it wants to make it cheap.

Solar City is announcing Thursday a program that would allow Oregon households to put panels on their roofs without taking out a big loan. Rob Manning has more.

Read Article

Fact: Columbia River Salmon Enhancement - Bonneville Power Authority Alone Will Spend $75 Million A Year For The Next 10 Years

From High Country News: To the BPA(Bonneville Power Authority), PATH is ancient history. The agency says that its funding process these days is more fair and generous than ever before. In 2008 alone, the BPA spent $80 million dollars on salmon research. Another $75 million a year for the next 10 years has been earmarked for science should the 2008 recovery plan pass judicial muster. According to Bill Maslen, the director of the BPA's Fish and Wildlife Program, this money is doled out through an open, democratic and cooperative process. "Every year we go out and identify what projects need to be done, and we travel the region, trying to build consensus on what we can do. Then we fund projects accordingly. And we've done more of that consensus-building this year than we ever have in years past," he says. Anderson's former grad student, Rich Zabel, says that funding pressures, or even the high-stakes legal battles in which his fish-passage model is used, have no effect at all on his work for NOAA. "I've never felt any political pressure here, and I'll tell you what, if I did, I'd quit (my job) kicking and screaming," he says. "My job is simply to produce the best science possible."

Deadline Looms For Portland Mayor Adams Recall Petition

D-Day for Recall Mayor Adams campaign
09:23 AM PDT
Monday, October 5, 2009

By TERESA YUAN and Kgw.com Staff

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Monday marked the deadline for the recall effort of Portland Mayor Sam Adams.

Read Full Article

So, Just What Is A Moderate Republican?

Moderate Republican.net:"So, just what is a moderate Republican? Some on the far-right would call us "RINOs" or "Republicans in Name Only." However, the moderate wing of the party has a well-established history. Paul Peter Jesep, founder of ModerateRepublican.com offers a fine defense of what it means to be a "progressive conservative.""

Just What Is A Moderate Republican

C.E.D.R.-Clatsop Economic Development Resources: Who Are They? What Do They Do?

Ever had any direct experience with or direct benefit from this group?

How do they shape up in our community?

Visit Their Site

Uh-Oh!: Bradwood Landing/NSNG Hits Another Snag!!!

Gas terminal proposed on the Columbia River hits new snag
By Ted Sickinger, The Oregonian
September 29, 2009, 7:47PM

The marathon regulatory review of a liquefied natural gas terminal proposed on the Columbia River just got longer.

Read Full Oregonlive Article

Hazen/Samuelson Recall Election Date Set And Voter Registration Information

Clatsop County Department Information Release