Well, gosh - goodbye, Barb.
While it's undeniably not only a good thing you're being let go, but also a just thing, it's possible to ask a few final questions...
The first and foremost being, how did you manage to keep your job for SO LONG when it was painfully clear to everyone in town that you were in over your head?
For that matter, how did you even get the job in the first place? Other, more qualified candidates didn't even get a phone call, yet you got shuffled right in. I can't help but think that's because you were just what the PADA Board was looking for: A local, no-brain, no-spine patsy. Another name for patsy might be fall guy, and you're sure taking the fall now, Barb. Timber!
Here are just a couple of excerpts from the PADA Board of Directors email announcement:
"As you know the Downtown Association board of directors has had a challenging year, and your funds are still being withheld by the City."
Translation: We're not the villains here; it's that big bad City. We'd still be getting away with it if not for that meddling City!
"She began as the PADA Executive Director January 2, 2008 and has led us well through many challenges."
So many lies in such a short sentence! Is it the truth the use "led" to describe someone who is well known for literally hiding from other people? More than once I saw Barb get asked a question, and her response was to turn to Jan Harbick to signal that she should answer it.
Pairing that lying "led" with "well"...Well that's a lie, too. Was it leadership when Barb let the PADA's own registration with the State of Washington lapse? Was it leadership to totally fail to go after the low-hanging fruit of those B&O funds? Was it leadership to let the Main Street program languish and wither? That's not "well" done, PADA Board members, that's just plain burnt up. You know, like much of your membership has been FOR YEARS. Under YOUR watch.
The PADA Board's email is really great. On one hand it lauds - or dare I say, fetes? - Barb, while tossing her to the wolves. It also essentially absolves the Board of any wrongdoing or complicity in the current state of affairs, and makes the City the big, bad meanie in this. All of which goes to show that the people on the PADA Board of Directors haven't learned a damn thing from their years of manipulation and failure. Not a thing.
In other words, Barb may be gone, but the stench lingers on.
***UPDATED***
Just so you all know...This post is crazy popular, and approaching 1,000 pageviews since it went up. Who knew Barb was such a big draw?
My understanding of the email and its tone is this: Certain members of the PADA board wanted a very formal announcement of the facts but "Saw Blade" Lumens insisted that he, as PADA president, would write the email and in any manner he chose.
ReplyDeleteWhether he was ultimately dissuaded from writing the announcement or not, I don't know. In the end, you can't blame the board for writing anything other than a plain statement of facts and trying to make it a profession and somewhat gracious.
Barb is gone and Lumens is soon to follow.
Larry Hueth, ceo at first federal helped to grease the skids for poor ole barb. he was overheard making the statement that first federal would not put any b and o money in downtown as long as barb was there. we'll see if he is good on his word. he has until the end of the year to invest in port angeles with first feds considerable b and o contribution but don't expect it. oh, and by the way, did you notice how cleverly first fed dangles a community foundation before voters who must give him permission to turn your local saving and loan over to the wall street sharks. presently depositors get to decide who will be on first feds board of directors as soon as the greed heads turn it into a stock bank then all decisions are made by someone in new york. george bailey has left the planet. finally, wassup wid first fed and their secretive little ceo group where a bunch of wanna be ball busters meet secretly with jim haguewood and karen rogers to carve up whatever low hanging tax money can be absorbed?
ReplyDeleteYou're right. Groups like the CEO Group and others (and there ARE others) remain, after Barbs' departure. Just voting new members to the PADA Board isn't really going to change much.
DeleteMuch more work remains.
Dude,
DeleteYou need to communicate in a more coherent manner if you want people to follow what you're saying. Maybe you don't even know what you're saying since most of your statements are based on innuendo and conjecture. How would you know if people are meeting in secret . . . if it was "secret"? Say more about the low hanging tax money being absorbed. Do you even know what you're saying? Try articulating something that is tangible and informative, instead of gobbly goosh. One last thing, when you don't start a sentence with a capitol letter, people are likely to think you either didn't finish high school or aren't very smart.
sounds like you are meeting with them.
DeleteAnd, there, we have it...the prevalent paranoia that seems to hover over Port Angeles. Welcome to the US v.s THEM mindset. New town motto: PA stands for Paranoid A**hole. What are you looking at?!!
DeleteIt's not really paranoia if they're really out to get you.
DeleteIndeed. It's true, and they are circling the wagons.
DeleteAgree with your assessment that the problems remain with the PADA. Barb was a symptom, not a cause. She was too incompetent to cause much of anything, really.
ReplyDeleteWell, and some of us thought we lost the theater downtown!
ReplyDeleteFudgey Pudgey continues his silly rant and rave role as PADA President and the Board's Lead Drama Queen.
Now, along with a few other key board members (and of course Barb's very able help until the 19th) Fudgie is actually doing everything possible to systematically undermine any newly elected board (and ultimately the entire PADA business membership) by thoroughly disabling and dismantling the office.
Meanwhile, Mike Gentry's PDN commentary about 40 (oh my gosh Mike, 40!) business people and concerned citizens showing up to a meeting to discuss revitalizing Port Angeles is the next tragic comedy about to take center stage.
Only in Port Angeles - like a really bad zombie movie, but with a cast of thousands!
One big turd down, but we need to keep flushing, flushing, flushing.
ReplyDeleteGet me a stick and a plunger, I can't get this blockage to clear.
DeleteNot true about Barb, she was incompetent, but not TOO incompetent to not cause much of anything. She was the biggest cock-block (ball buster) on the plant, when it came to doing anything, getting anything done, or being proactive. She was forever stuck in Junior High in how she managed, and I doubt she did one lick of research, ever, in her life. No PR back ground. No business sense, and clearly, of low intelligence and creativity. Why was she picked? Who picked her? The problem with the PADA, was that no matter how many board members came and went, nothing changed. Compare this to the energy the downtown had B.B (before Barb). And, why in the HELL would anyone pick a shrinking violet to be the head cheerleader? Geez, folks...try outgoing, friendly, and bubbly, next time!
ReplyDelete"...but not TOO incompetent..."
DeleteThis about the woman who let her own organization's official (and legally required) registration with the state lapse?
I guess that's the high-low low-high bizarro world expectations of Port Angeles for you...
except that no one noticed for about a year, that the corporate papers were expired. When the one merchant did, the city tried to pass it off as "oh no big deal". Seriously, our city's esteemed shark tried to say it wasn't a problem. Shouldn't it have been his job to make sure that the ducks around him (and that the city was funneling money to) were in a row? What does he do all day, cruise the internet for pron?
DeleteWell, gosh again...I guess that Barb's Big G'Bye is something that people have been waiting for. There aren't that many comments here today, but the number of page views at Unearthed today is through the roof! Over 400 and counting.
ReplyDeleteIs this Barb's last big moment in the spotlight? Or there just a lot of people who want to make sure she actually leaves?
I think we're all like Charlie Brown, of the Peanuts gang, hoping that Lucy will actually let us kick that football, but fearing that it (again) won't happen. We've all wished for Santa to bring us a real live pony (puppy?) only to find just a pile of shit under the tree. Dare we get our hopes up, CK? Dare we? Or is this just another big, grand disappointment?
ReplyDeleteSo, how are the downtown merchants going to get around the reality that most people do their shopping in Sequim? Any wonder the bulk of the stores in Port Angeles sell the only thing the big box stores don't: second hand junk!?
ReplyDeleteThis is interesting that you should say this. On FRiday night (Dec 5) a friend and I went to Sequim after work to participate in the art walk and take advantage of stores being open late to do Christmas shopping. Downtown was hopping and we also enjoyed wine at Wind Rose Cellars with live music. It was a really fun time. Meanwhile, my husband figured he'd try to go shop in PA since he works there and he went downtown and texted me to say 70%$ of the businesses were closed. He wandered around the antiques mall but the prices were really high and of the three things he definitely would have bought, they were not for sale, or could be had for new at a lower cost. He So he came home emptyhanded. He did encounter one lady who was obviously high on something. The one bright spot that he noticed and that we both regularly like to shop at is Angeles Brewing Supply. I lovely shop and the owner is very knowledgeable and helpful and they are open until 6pm so folks can get there after work. Certainly stores need to realize that they should be open until at least 5:30 or 6 so us regular office folks can get there to shop, but I'm even more surprised that there's not more places offering extended hours during the holiday shopping season. I work in PA and live in Sequim so I have potential to shop in both areas and I prefer to do my shopping at local stores rather than big box but the local stores in PA aren't making it easy.
DeleteWith one down and one to go (PADA) the situation is grim for the organization. The City is likely to continue withholding PBIA funds and may sever the parking lot contract and take over the maintenance of the 8 free lots. This would mean 65k is gone. The 20k that the City has been giving them annually to support the Main Street program is gone. The Main Street program requires that a full time Director be in place to be eligible for B&O Tax Credit dollars. The State might have something to say about this new development. PADA is getting low on funds hence, Bye Bye Barb! The only remaining source of possible income is from the B&O Tax Credit program. They promised the City in Jan. of 2014 that they would raise $133k - they're at 7k YTD. We know how this group has rallied people and united the community around keeping B&O Taxes here in Port Angeles. Sorta makes the 2015 Board elections that are in progress, somewhat akin to rearranging the chairs on the deck of the Titanic - the ship is going down.
ReplyDeleteNever fear the CEO group, led by Karen Rogers and Larry Hueth are in the wings. They know how to slurp up tax money.
DeleteIf you've ever been to one of those morning PABA meetings, and seen Karen Rogers rapidly shoveling food into her great big gob, well, let's just say it's a sight that evokes a mixture of disgust and...well, even more disgust.
DeleteWell said.......
DeleteCheck out the cat fight that is taking place on Revitalize Port Angeles Facebook. Apparently one has to be accepted in order to access the website. All of the concern and hoopla about security issues downtown by some of the group's members is not going over well with certain other members. Some believe the issues of crime, safety and homelessness are being hyped and over exaggerated, with the net effect of scaring people away from downtown. Unless this group starts uniting and bringing people together around a larger vision for downtown that people can rally around, I don't see this group getting much traction. Right now, it looks like they're fighting amongst themselves.
ReplyDeleteOH NO!
DeleteWhat a surprise! A total SHOCK!
Forks vampires/werewolves ...eat your hearts out... the MARCH of the Port Angeles Zombies begins...
Saw that, yea about 6-8 people. They took down that thread after a while I think and there were some marching orders to act your age. Then some new woman did a huge flame and is gone, first one I've seen. Then some more nasty yesterday, and some more deletes and apologies from the admins. But at least they're not trying to fix the truck by pissing on it. Membership is open, just ask then keep a civil tongue in your head. Maybe too much to ask for some here, wouldn't dream of it.
DeleteSometimes, ya gotta realize the truck isn't worth fixing, and pissing on it is about the best thing ya can do. Then call the junk yard to tow it away.
DeleteFixing what is Port Angeles is going to take a lot more than a new marketing plan.
"new woman"? How do you know she's new? Have you cataloged everyone in this stinking town? This is exactly the huge problem with this area. A group of people have some idea, and invite the public. Old faces, new faces, and people who are wistful, but not very hopeful, show up. It's billed as an open forum, so people speak their mind, bring up some ideas, voice some opinions, made some comments -- then they are immediately labeled as "flamers" "new" "outsider" "problem" "troublemaker" and marginalized. Any excuse is seized upon to shut down anything that isn't positive happy horse-crap talk. (Everything is always perfect, right? Hello, Barb. Who selected her? We know the usual suspects.) The ones in the group who are always most offended are the people who never speak up, in public/on a forum, but complain amongst themselves, prattle on like old hens, and then go to the leaders/admins and complain bitterly about how offended they are. They kill the group, or cut off it's nads. They act like little school ninnies, instead of actually speaking up and being forthcoming about their views, or even trying to clarify the message, and maybe finding some middle-ground. All these people always threaten to take their marbles and go home at the first sign of dissent. The only views they accept are the people that think right (like they do, or else!). The mindset is: agree with me, or go away. Then the knee-jerk reaction of the leaders/admins is to backpedal, make a flurry of changes, over-react, apologize, and kiss the asses of the complainers, to the point of neutering any ideas, any discussion. The status-quo folks win another battle. It is why nothing ever happens. It shuts down any productive communication. It puts a chill on the people who gave a damn, and encourages the people who never do anything, to keep on doing nothing except complaining about everyone else. Then any intent is lost, People walk away, throw their hands up in the air and the back-biting, gnawing, gnashing and complaining group, applaud themselves on accomplishing more of nothing. No wonder nothing ever happens around here.
Delete3:56 pm
DeleteTake some deep breaths and calm down. Its all going to work out. You are correct, Revitalize Port Angeles is an public/open forum. That is more than we can say for PADA. Even though it looks like we're flaying and eating each other up - in the end, good ideas will emerge that bring people together. I hear more frustration than hate. One thing I am certain of moving forward, people and merchants with selfish ambitions will not be part of the solution. And they're out there right now trying to gain traction with Revitalize Port Angeles and new board members running for election with PADA. If you want an example of a well oiled and united downtown, look at what the merchants in Port Townsend are doing. They have their "act" together and they "work" together. And many of the merchants are laughing all the way to the bank. What do we have? Division and infighting. Oh, by the way - the Main Street program is driving the economic machine - its working. We need to stop the infighting and work together for everyone's good. As I see it, PADA stands in the way of a united and prosperous downtown. This is just one of the steps in the right direction. Any meaningful change must be inclusive and open. We're not there yet . . . we're on our way. Thank you for your post.
3:56 pm, any member can look at a fb group members list and see when people joined, duh. It was just a few days before her rants. That is called "new". And ya know what? -- *no one* said one word in there about "new in town," except her. Flaming and so on are counterproductive; it makes people who don't want to play nasty games leave, and take their ideas and energy with them. So sneer all you want, there's a sandbox you can play in right here, and I would guess Revitalize is probably even happy for you, they're like that.
DeleteNah, it's not going to work out. Its not going to change, and things will go further downhill. It's herding cats. Meanwhile, the city will do everything it can do raise rates, up fees, fines and permitting, chase grants, and suck money from any possible avenue (hello! Why do you think they are withholding funds from the PADA? Why did they get PADA to sign over the parking lots to them a couple of years ago for a fist full of beads?). The city is floundering, and keeping fake books. It is way, way over extended with all it's sweet heart deals, huge loans, and other questionable side dealing compensation. Nope. Nothing is going anywhere. No matter how much lipstick you try and put on the pig. The apple is rotten to the core.
DeleteWow, 7:45, cut back on the coffee, please. You, clearly, are frothing.
DeleteSo, you're saying that this person is new to: Facebook? The group? The town? Newly hatched? I don't get it. So? No reason for people to freak out. Sounds, from your post, that it is all bad.
We don't like newcomers. Is that your point?
Flaming...do you mean: overtly gay and homosexual in nature and appearance? Or, do you mean online flaming which means mockery and insults thrown at internet users back-and-forth? Was that going on? That wasn't what I read. It looked like one comment, with some passion, and a couple of people misreading it, one person understanding, and then -- probably a bunch of people complaining, and then the post disappearing. Over-react much? It was mild, to non-existent as far as flaming goes.
(How long have you been on the internet?)
Good rule of thumb: unless Godwins law was enacted, it probably wasn't "flaming".
Just because someone's ideas don't mesh with your (narrow) focus, doesn't mean it's flaming, noob.
And, that would be the problem in Port Angeles: narrow, closed, and small minded people getting offended much too easily. How thin are skins around here?
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my.
Oh boy.
DeleteLets clean up the trash downtown.
Lets harass anyone who doesn't fit in our ideal of "upstanding citizen".
Lets paint some of the vacant building's windows.
Lets print some stickers that have a dubious, confusing meaning.
I PA?? Really, this is what the Revitalists are promoting as brilliant?
How do you something?
I get =love. Over used to death, and boring as hell. It's been around forever, and it's about as interesting as a happy face.
But tree?
Like in clear cutting?
Tree = logging?
Really questionable. Not very creative. But the Revitalize group are just falling all over themselves over that one. Hope they don't throw out their backs patting themselves.
Oh boy. Oh Goodie! Lets encourage people to come "shop" at junque shops, and overpriced kitchy stuff. That will turn it all around, right? Yesssireeee.
I think a little flaming and criticism is in order.
Goly-gee-whizz. Aren't we all so special?
March of the PA Zombies is gaining!
DeleteRevitalize PA doesn't sound like they understand what the problem is. Paint empty store windows?
DeleteWhat is it going to take for them to understand people go to Sequim to shop at the big box stores?
In fact, it would be interesting to see what the results would be, if Revitalize members polled themselves to find out how many of THEM shop in Sequim, at the big box stores.
How many of THEM patronize other stores downtown? How often?
Answer truthfully, now.
Somebody going to post this suggestion on their FB page? What kind of comments do you think it would generate?
...what kind of comments it would generate? They'd say you were violating their posting guidelines, and people would call you "negative" and complain to the admins. Then the admins would bounce you off from posting any more because you've ruffled some feathers. That's all they are about. Words, and happy talk. Same story, same ending.
DeleteSlightly different topic, but still about downtown merchants and the changes.
ReplyDeleteApperantly, at Thursday's meeting of "Revitalize Port Angeles", people atttending were calling for the Lee Hotel to be removed from the downtown by any means possible.
This is just disgusting. Sure. I get it. These merchants only care about their own businesses, and see the people roaming the streets as a problem. As has been discussed here, there are those that think people in need of services are bussed into the area. Maybe.
But here we are, in the midst of the "Season of Goodwill to All", and Port Angeles merchants are saying those most in need in our community need to be removed. Where? Who cares. Just as long as "they" aren't to be seen downtown!
Charles Dickens, where are you now? Any of these heartless souls read "A Christmas Story" ??
How many people have been helped over the years by the services the Lee Hotel provides? People you never saw, who were quietly taking advantage of the help provided? Have any of these merchants EVER taken the time to talk with any of these people, and listened to their stories? Understand what they have been through?
Shop downtown? Patronize these businesses?
How about a picket line to expose these merchants for the heartless, self-centered pieces of crap they appear to really be.
I could not be more appalled or disgusted with this town.
Thanks for the inside info from the meeting. It is appreciated, for sure!
DeleteThink about it.............
DeleteWHO has complained MOST about the Lee over the years????????????????
Port Book and News has ALWAYS been the whiner, all the while pretending to be one of the outcast (nice try Alan) .........
THINK...
Just who could be the real complainer??????????????
True head count of the meeting was 12 business (10 business, 2 property), 7 public servant, 19 other.
DeleteI was there.
Just curious 3:50: All these people were at the Revitalize meeting and based on what you are reporting, it looks like a cross section of our community. What is the stated purpose and mission of this group? Is it inspiring and compelling? Is it inclusive? Will it bring people together to work toward a common goal to truly revitalize Port Angeles? Based on what I've heard and read, the group seems to be focusing on safety and security issues - which is fine, but what is ultimately needed is a larger vision and purpose for downtown and our community. I would invite people to express what they believe are the important issues that need to be addressed so that we can get to a better place.
DeleteThe Lee Hotel was initially sold to the community as low rent housing for seniors. Who is going to deny granma and grampa a nice place to live out their golden years? No one, naturally. Then we find out that it's mass housing for a variety of people with some serious mental and social issues. Right in the heart of downtown. Nice!
DeleteIt's interesting to note that in the aftermath of last week's spree of burglaries downtown, at least one victim went directly to the manager of the Lee Hotel. Think there's not a connection between many of the residents of the Lee Hotel and criminal activity downtown? Have you ever seen some of the sketchy people exiting the Lee Hotel in the early morning hours?
I look forward to your solo-picketing efforts of downtown businesses. Be sure to carry a sign so I know who you are.
BTW, Charles Dickens wrote "A Christmas Carol". "A Christmas Story" is a really great film based on a story by Jean Shepherd.
" Invite people to express what they believe are the important issues.. " Isn't that what they did ?
Delete@ Anon 1:02 PM
DeleteYou say: "... in the aftermath of last week's spree of burglaries downtown, at least one victim went directly to the manager of the Lee Hotel. Think there's not a connection between many of the residents of the Lee Hotel and criminal activity downtown? "
Suspicion does not constitute fact, or guilt. Your comments reveal exactly what my point was: The kind of thinking represented by the suspicions around the Lee Hotel is not the kind of thinking that is really going to revitalize Port Angeles. You may think my calls for pickets pointless, but I'll guarantee you that Port Angeles will not move forward by victimizing the most needy in it's community.
Many communities across the world are now doing everything they can to encourage full time residents in their downtown cores. Closing off the streets to vehicular traffic. And, yes, housing the needy right in their midst.
BTW. I know Dickens wrote " A Christmas Carol", and realized my mistake after I pushed "Publish". My apologies to anyone who was offended.
Uh ... I'm gonna bet you that "most communities across the world" are NOT housing "the needy" in their midst. In the real world, not the one you live in, housing projects like the Lee Hotel are far from the urban core.
DeleteAs I said before, enjoy your solo-picketing efforts.
@ Anon 4:01 AM
DeleteReally, this exchange is quite funny. You are so blinded by your defense that you cannot see you're affirming the very attitudes and behaviors that so many complain of about the downtown merchants. The very reason people say that they don't shop downtown.
By your defense of these sad and offensive attitudes in writing on this very forum, seemingly speaking for the downtown merchants, you're accomplishing more than I could with a picket. Nobody walks downtown, as we know. More people read this blog in a day, than walk past any business in Port Angeles.
Your outspoken advocacy that the services and support for the needy be removed from the downtown of Port Angeles is the same kind of repugnant views that communities that move ahead, repudiate. Communities that think the needy should be removed "far from the urban core" are not communities that succeed.
Of course, it is always easier to kick out the crutches from a cripple, than face the fact that you are not able to compete and succeed as a business in the real world. Easier to adopt exclusionary rules to keep people you don't like away, than face the reality that corporate big box stores in Sequim draw shoppers there.
Do you really think, that IF you got all the people you don't approve of off the streets, and "far from the urban core", that all the people now shopping in Sequim and Silverdale will suddenly patronize Port Angeles' stores?
I lived in a tourist community for many years that had the local homeless shelter and soup kitchen right in the tourist core of downtown. Sure the local businesses complained occasionally but nothing was ever going to change as they couldn't afford to move and nobody was going to front them the money to do so. That being said, the staff and directors of the place ran a tight ship. A person would not be allowed in if they had been drinking. There were expectations for behavior or you could be booted out for a period of time. There were some regular alcoholics that loitered downtown but I managed a gift shop and if you treated them respectfully, you could end up with them on your side, looking out for your shop. The police would come through and make sure there was no fighting, sleeping on benches, or public drinking/urination etc. I think they have since built a pocket park supposedly with restrooms etc, and I wonder how that has fared.
DeleteNot to mention Victoria, a world class destination that over 200 cruiseships visit each year. Both a tourist town, and a capital city (capital of the province).
DeleteThey have all kinds of homeless shelters, kitchens, health care services, etc in the downtown core. The city buys hotels and turns then into low cost housing for the needy. There was a story on the TV the other night where they have a non profit that provides fashion clothes, make-up and people to help women who have been street people get all gussied up, so they can go apply for jobs. Downtown.
So, what is more outrageous? That the merchants blame those with the least, those most unfortunate, for their business problems? Or that they openly say it? That they see nothing wrong with suggesting the Lee Hotel be rezoned, find a new buyer, or to seize the property?
ReplyDeleteThere were a number of City Council members present. And the police cheif. Did they repudiate such inhumane talk from the group? Did any of the council members present stand up for the poor and vulnerable? Say anything of concern?
Is this really the "revitalization" Port Angeles is looking for?
Maybe they would support an old fashioned "Poor Farm" where these people can be shipped off to, so we don't have to see them, and their problems.
What a bunch of..
...heartless, clueless morons?
DeleteThese same heartless, clueless morons, if the Lee were (for whatever reason) razed, would probably argue in favor of putting a parking garage in its place, because we all know the reason that downtown struggles so much is that there's not enough parking.
The utter don't-get-it-ness of the City Council continues to be stunning. We don't need to tweak the status quo - we need a thoughtful, well-planned major overhaul. Of pretty much everything. But we won't get that until we get rid of the dead wood in leadership positions. Or pretty much everyone.
People will say what they want. It's a forum, not a Bible class. Maybe 5? people talking that way, 35 more thinking WTF, would be the truth. Saw it all. Chief of PD has always been quick to point out that it aint a crime to be homeless.
DeleteGosh folks, the problem is the "hotel" management, and some bad apples in the place. I'm sure a couple of people are being big pills to everyone who lives in the place, and cause problems for the merchants, and management doesn't manage. (shock! horror! How can that be in this town, right?) I think emotions ran high, but really, it's not about the homeless, it's about the hooligans. Who's going to address that?
ReplyDeleteWith ALL the problems that have been identified over the years, it is so sad to see that this "Revitalize Port Angeles" group has focused on crime and security, and is blaming the Lee Hotel.
DeleteEven if you loaded up all the residents of the Lee Hotel and trucked them off to some other place so that they did not offend the sensibilities of these merchants, the downtown stores still would not be able to compete with the big box stores, and on-line shopping.
It isn't about crime, or hooligans. Most of the time I am downtown, there are NO other people to be seen walking the sidewalks. A few summers ago, I was downtown to meet someone at lunch time. Beautiful sunny day. I stood at Lincoln and First, and took pictures in all four directions because I had to document what I saw. Not a single person to be seen. Anywhere!
Lunch time, when it would not be unreasonable to see area employees patronizing local eateries, or taking the opportunity to do some shopping. But, there was NOBODY.
James Cook comments on the PDN site (on the Kenmore story) that we need industry to solve all our problems. Once we get "industry", downtown will become prosperous again, civic infrastucture will be rebuilt, doctors and professionals will come here and rent office space, etc.
Sounds plausible, if you don't think much. He speaks as if the civic leadership has not tried to get "industry" here, as they have many times. He doesn't acknowledge the distance, isolation, and lack of support services that is Port Angeles. He doesn't acknowledge that every town and city across America is looking for "industry" of some kind to roll into their communities to bring in more money, joibs, etc., and many are aggresively offering incentives.
We can't just keep going around and around, year after year, with the same people saying the same things. When will we get our heads out of the sand, and face reality? The calvary ain't coming. The Great White Knight isn't one his way. It isn't about "them".
It is about "us". "We" have to create our own salvation, our own solutions to how our community can provide what we want it to be.
Lincoln and First is a low-traffic corner, pedestrian wise. You would have been better off, and more credible, if you had taken your documentary photos at Laurel and First.
Delete"A" for effort!
Let me restate. I stood at the corner of Lincoln and First, and from that vantage point, one can see pretty far down the streets. Long ways up Lincoln. Long ways down First. Nobody to be seen, anywhere.
DeleteSince it seems to be of interest, let me add that I went over to the second floor balconey of the Landing, where I could see quite a distance around town. Nobody. I took pictures from there, too. I was just stunned.
I still have the pictures.
You should check the Revitalize page again. Because there's like 300 members anyone can figure that noone speaks for all of them. The moderator and a number members repudiated the anti homeless stuff next morning. I was at the meeting pretty surprised to hear all that, it was a first. Maybe 40 people there, not more than 5 talking that way. One woman is working with the social agencies now, is starting her own group for that. In the long run, nothing changes at the Lee unless it gets better management in there, and some of the gripers said so next day. Not a prob with the tennants, a lot of them have been victims over the years.Maybe it stays maybe it goes, not up to Revitalize and most of them know it. It stays unless the housing agency chooses to move -- Federal $ & laws.
Deleteno foot traffic is the problem, downtown. Pure and simple There is nothing that draws people there. Why go downtown when it is a big waste of time?
DeleteBut you can look at the Avenue of the "People"!
DeleteStop being a Negative Nelly. Turn that frown upside down and look at the rusty "statues"!
With PADA finally crumbling, it's time to see how the City responds to their Lodging Tax call for proposals.
ReplyDeleteThe Chamber's .initial, arrogant proposal on the visitor center/+??? appropriately went down in flames.
What Russ tries to sell at tomorrow's Lodging Tax Meeting and how the City ultimately responds will be a key move to tryi and bring some long needed change to spending Lodging Tax $
Hey Russ, Barb and Bob both struck out. With 2 Outs, you're up next!
What a sad display of un-christian behavior! Do any of you "haters" pay attention to core Christian beliefs? A woman has lost her job, other, less fortunate folks are struggling to get by, and all you can do is pile on the hate and paranoia. It is not the fault of people like Barb, Russ, Karen, Dick, Glenn, Larry, the folks in the Lee Hotel, etc., etc., that your life is so darned miserable. Look in the mirror! There, looking back at you is 100% of the cause of your unhappiness.
ReplyDeleteUh, yeah, right. In fact, it's darned right. Thanks for writing Barb, Russ, Karen, Dick, Glenn and/or Larry. Nice to know you're reading this blog!
DeleteSpeaking of core Christian beliefs, I can think of one person in the New Testament who called out people and groups that used existing institutions and power structures to only benefit themselves, while at the same time, claiming they were acting in the people's best interests. I think his name was Jesus who acted with self-righteous indignation against those who would take advantage and use their place of power or priviledge for self serving needs. I don't know about you, but I see some real parallels with what is going on in our community. So if you want to speak in spiritual terms, you need to look no further than the New Testement for an example of someone who took a stand against injustice, bigotry and abuse of power. Hating for the sake of hating is one thing, which benefits no one and brings about negative change. However, taking a stand against people and organizations who behave in a self serving manner, with the goal of bringing about a positive change - we have a DUTY to criticise and call out those who would use their positions to misuse money and resources. There is a difference between hating and being critical with the hope that real change will happen. I think that most people who post things on the blog prefer the latter. Now 7:49, would you look in the mirror and tell yourself that all the crap and incompetence that Barb, Russ, Karen, Dick, Glenn, Larry and others have brought upon our community - that we should just shut up and take it? Well, I've got news for you - that would not be "Christian".
DeleteI think he called them "a pit of vipers."
DeleteJesus also referred to them as " these people who honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me"
Deletethat woman deserved to lose her job years ago. Or is it un-Christian to expect people to do their job? Solid pay for a solid day's work is not in the lexicon of PA, huh?
Delete"Core Christian beliefs" you mean like the Inquisitions? Witch trials?
ReplyDeleteI do my Christmas shopping A) Online, mostly, then some in B) Sequim, and probably even a little in C) Port Townsend. But downtown Port Angeles? I don't give shabby used merchandise from fake "antique" stores as gifts.
ReplyDeleteFrom the KONP website:
ReplyDelete"The soon-to-be laid off Port Angeles Downtown Association Director says she doesn't have any firm plans for her future."
Well, duh! There's absolutely nothing firm about Barb at all. Nothing at all.
A tower of jello, is the phrase that comes to mind.
DeleteNo firm plans, no vision, lazy and no experience, she's sure to get a high paying job with the city.
DeleteSo, Nippon is shutting down part of it's paper operations due to "slow market conditions" ?
ReplyDeleteAnother nail gets pounded into that coffin.
Krypt Kicker
ReplyDeleteLots of comments . . . . . how many pages views on the community's observation of Barb's departure? There's more work ahead . . . .
At this point, there have been over 500 pageviews for the Bye, Bye, Barb! post, and, as you point out, LOTS of comments.
DeleteAnon 1:46... If, there was actually "the goal of bringing about a positive change", I could buy your arguement, but pretty much all there is, is sarcastic, hate-filled criticism. No ideas or sugestions for improvement (other than to get rid of the target of the hater's ire). When has hate-filled sarcasim ever got anyone to do something different? Maybe in Jr. High that worked for the bullies, but not so much after that.
ReplyDeleteThis town is ruled by hate-filled children.
DeleteAny ideas, or suggestions, or any kind of reality check is viewed as "negative" by the people who are so, darn, intent on keeping things on the downhill path. This is a town built on hate and distrust.
The amount of energy expended in getting rid of the "target of the hate" (as 7:55am accurately identified it) is ten-fold the energy actually expended to do anything productive.
The bullies are the silent old-timers, who go behind-the-scenes, with the single intent to marginalize, label, and target anyone that's "them, not us".
This area was built in the mud, and stuck in the mud, still.
Who ever replaces Barb, if there is someone, will be a carbon copy. Happy talk, and uplifting newsletters, but no action.
DeleteThat is the culture of the town.
CK, you are so lucky you escaped.
Anon 4:06 PM:
DeleteThanks for the kind word. You can do it too. Really. My quality of life improved 1000% after leaving. I'm working for a - no kidding - Fortune 500 company, while at the same time not having to pay outrageous utility bills engineered by Glenn Cutler. After I'm done here, I'll be off to one of the two co-ops in town for some light grocery shopping. Then it's off to a free movie at the independent theater downtown - a downtown that, I assure you, will be bustling.
I'm not trying to brag here - I'm trying to give you a taste of what can be yours if you escape Port Angeles. I'm living in a town of under 50,000 people, not a big city, but the opportunities available here are infinite compared to what I had in Port Angeles.
Anyway, thanks again for the kind word, and for participating here. Now - get packing!
4:05 You sound like one of those hate filled children. I disagree with your premise. There are plenty of smart, well qualified people with good ideas who are involved at nearly all levels in our community. There are a few organizations, and PADA is a prime example, that are resistant to new ideas and not open to well qualified people getting involved. These organizations should be criticized and singled out. That is what this thread is all about. Lets keep this in its proper context. Where there is incompetence and waste - call it out. It doesn't mean we're "haters".
DeleteAt some point, "the proof is in the pudding". At some point, people who want to be rah-rah cheerleaders like Cherie need to recognize reality in Port Angeles.
DeleteOf course there are vwell intentioned, decent people in Port Angeles. But, the proof of Port Angeles is in the very stories that we have discussed here over the last week or two, alone. Much less the last yerar.
That free mental health servics that are proven to reduce suicide attempts were turned down, in a town with the States highest suicide rate. Can anyone seriously say to be critical of this is the action of a "hater"?
Two days later, a meeting of downtown merchants rresults in them voicing a desire to remove facoilities for the needy, because they are "sketchy", and suspicions some residents may be involved in crime. As if that is why their businesses are not prosperous. Can anyone seriously say to be critical of these views is merely the actions of a "hater"?
A few days later, Nippon announces the shut down of one of its' two paper making machines, refusing to discuss the situatiuon with thew community. Again, can anyone seriously say that to be critical of Nippons refusal to discuss what is going on is the action of a "hater"?
Actually, if you get past your preexisting views that anything critical of Port Angeles is simpley "haters" with nothing to contribute, you would see the contributions being made. More change for the better has happened, since these problems have been openly discussed.
8:55, that is the point. (I'm not 4:05) There are smart, well qualified people with good ideas who are mostly talking to the wall of the majority, which are neither smart, well qualified, nor creative. That's why nothing gets done. We have people in control that are utter, complete, lazy morons. Welcome to PA, now don't bother us.
DeleteGood point in the PDN comments from Mike Gentry... What happened to all the AIA suggestions? There was a whole bunch of hoopla about it, some deserved, some not. But then, crickets. Except for possibly the waterfront makeover. Not much emphasis on walkability (my pet subject), sign overhauls (except for a couple wayfaring signs downtown which were there for public comments, then nothing further), traffic flow or... well, anything. Is it a matter of money or has everyone forgotten about the AIA report already?
ReplyDeletethere were some great AIA suggestions -- none of which will ever see the light of day. What a sad commentary on this town.
DeleteOne of the more memorable phrases from the AIA Report was: "Port Angeles looks so much better from a distance."
DeleteThey authors were, I think, trying to say something encouraging about their recommendations to improve the city's image to better match the view of it from the middle of the Strait of Juan DeFuca. But the simple truth of the statement sure resonates.
Max tried to get the City Council to follow up on the AIA report, which he talked about a LOT in his campaign. Once Sissi got elected, she joined in in pushing it as a Council member. Staff and the rest of the Council seem to have been deeply resistant, though. We can see that essentially nothing came of it.
DeleteI think a big part of this was due to the fact that Max and Sissi were both newcomers to Port Angeles, and therefore didn't feel any allegiance to the old ways/old guard that had run the town so far down in the first place. But everyone else was and is tied to that old guard, and those old ideas, and by embracing the AIA recommendations, they were probably afraid that they would have been "admitting" to all the mistakes made in the past.
Just my opinion, for whatever it's worth.
Hey Folks,
ReplyDeleteNone of this matters anymore.
Kiss Port Angeles GOODBYE.
Hope you got what you wanted................
What a sad place....................................
Delete