What a week for Democrats!! The Obama rally Saturday was inspiring and then being able to drive back to Gooding for the Democrat Caucus last Tuesday was frosting on the cake. It was great visiting with everyone and listening to politics served up grassroots-style. Gooding County about doubled their last caucus numbers. Also heard great reports from the rest of the District 25 caucuses.
Bad news appeared on the economic scene. Tax receipts are down $35 million for January. If this trend continues, it will not bode well for agency budgets and establishment or continuation of programs. Bare bones budgets are hard on all concerned.
This is the last week for Routing Slips (RS) to be introduced in our afternoon committees (for me Agriculture and Natural Resources). Not only am I listening to 5-8 new concepts being introduced each committee, but was also tying up loose ends and generating support for an RS with Rep. Eskridge dealing with the operation and use of state outdoor sport shooting ranges. It establishes a uniform noise standard for these ranges and offers them grandfather protections from nuisance actions resulting from new housing moving in around them. There is great support state wide from sportsmen and it will be heard Monday.
No concrete information on a teacher pay plan. There is the possibility that the category 4 contract (the one requiring teachers to give up continuing contract) will be dropped as part of the pay plan. Still some movement to better train administrators to evaluate teachers and to supervise improvement plans designed to help a teacher become more proficient. There is a still a lot of support for concurrent enrollment in our high schools. This would allow students to take classes which qualify for both high school credit and college credit at the same time. This would enable students in some cases to graduate from high school with enough credits for an AA degree. College of Southern Idaho is working hard to develop classes available in the Magic Valley. A longitudinal data system which would enable instant access to individual records by authorized individuals looks to be a go. If a student were to move to Gooding from Sandpoint, this system would enable a teacher to instantly access records and put that student in classes at his or her proper level. There will be many other educational uses for this type of statewide data system.
Are you aware of the Department of Corrections has the Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) program? This is a free, automated hotline that provides crime victims with vital information and notification 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. This service will allow you to obtain offender information and to register for notification of a change in offender status, such as offender release. This program offers peace of mind to victims of crime and does protect the public. Visit the Idaho VINE hotline at 1-866-9VINE-ID or visit http://www.vinelink.com/.
The Lincoln, Camas, Blaine and Gooding County elected officials were in Boise this week. It was great to talk with all of you. Thanks for the work you do and for the great ideas you come up with for making Idaho such a great place to live.
If you are in town, drop in and personally give me your opinions. Otherwise phone me at 1-208-332-1271, e-mail at dpence@house.idaho.gov, or write P.O. Box 83720, Boise, Idaho 83720-0038
Showing posts with label Gooding. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gooding. Show all posts
Friday, February 08, 2008
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Corrections I wish I could have made in Gooding: Unethical purchase of house/land
As I mentioned in a previous post, one individual made a lot of statements that my group was unable to correct during the discussion part of the Gooding County Caucus. I would like to address them...
Statement #2: Obama purchased a very expensive house for a very low price from a crook/slumlord blah blah blah...
Mr. Clinton-supporter, again you've tried to sound like you knew what you were talking about and failed miserably.
Statement #2: Obama purchased a very expensive house for a very low price from a crook/slumlord blah blah blah...
Mr. Clinton-supporter, again you've tried to sound like you knew what you were talking about and failed miserably.
"In 2005, Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, bid $1.65 million for a house on the south side of Chicago. According to newspaper reports, the owner was also trying to sell an undeveloped parcel of land adjacent to the property Obama was buying, and he wanted the sales of the two to close on the same day. Obama has said that he mentioned he was buying the house to a longtime political patron, Antoin (Tony) Rezko, a developer. Rezko’s wife wound up buying the lot adjacent to Obama’s. At the request of the Obamas, who were seeking a bit more space for their yard, she later sold them a 10-foot wide strip, or about one-sixth, of her land. The Obamas paid $104,500 for it, or about one-sixth of what Mrs. Rezko had paid for the entire property." [More at FactCheck.org]
This information is VERY easy to locate ... FactCheck.org even includes sources. What a concept, don't ya think? Probably not as fun as creative story-telling or blowing things out of proportion or stretching the truth... but it works for me.
Corrections I wish I could have made in Gooding: Missing in Congress
As I mentioned in a previous post, one individual made a lot of statements that my group was unable to correct during the discussion part of the Gooding County Caucus. I would like to address them...
Statement #1: Obama was missing during many Congressional votes.
Mr. Clinton-supporter, may I please point out to you that according to The Washington Post Vote Database (as published in Newsweek, January 21, 2008) that yes, Senator Obama missed 11 votes (1.7%) during the 109th Congress... while Senator Clinton missed 16 (2.5%).
For 110th Congress, Senator Obama has missed 174 votes (38.3%) and Senator Clinton has missed 112 votes (24.7%).
Yes, Senator Obama has missed some votes... so has Senator Clinton. Last year, she missed more than he did. This year, he has missed more than she has. Nothing to brag about for either of them.
So... what was your point again?
Interesting note: Senator McCain missed 58 votes (9%) during the 109th, and 257 votes (56.6%) during 110th.
Statement #1: Obama was missing during many Congressional votes.
Mr. Clinton-supporter, may I please point out to you that according to The Washington Post Vote Database (as published in Newsweek, January 21, 2008) that yes, Senator Obama missed 11 votes (1.7%) during the 109th Congress... while Senator Clinton missed 16 (2.5%).
For 110th Congress, Senator Obama has missed 174 votes (38.3%) and Senator Clinton has missed 112 votes (24.7%).
Yes, Senator Obama has missed some votes... so has Senator Clinton. Last year, she missed more than he did. This year, he has missed more than she has. Nothing to brag about for either of them.
So... what was your point again?
Interesting note: Senator McCain missed 58 votes (9%) during the 109th, and 257 votes (56.6%) during 110th.
Report on Gooding County Caucus
What a night! We didn't have hundreds of participants like Twin Falls... or THOUSANDS like Ada County... but we DID have a great turnout!
We all gathered in the back room at Sally's Office Solutions and Deli... folks started arriving early but they were very patient while we finished getting set up. (It helped that they could order soup, sandwiches, coffee, and more while they were waiting!)
Carpools came from Hagerman and a nice group came from Wendell... it was wonderful to see them! We missed folks from Bliss, but hopefully we'll be addressing that over the next few months. Since we live in a rural area, many of the faces were familiar and some were a surprise! I was able to re-connect with a woman from Wendell who I hadn't seen in at least 8 years, and put some faces to some names I recognized. A couple of Republicans joined us and I really think they felt welcomed.
As volunteers, some who are new to the caucus process, we had some bumps during the evening... I hope those of you who noticed will be willing to help us out next time! We'd greatly appreciate it!
We broke into our groups and that is when the "fun" started...
I prepared for the night by bringing information about Senator Obama's positions and plans. I wanted to be able to inform, clarify, educate, etc. if there were any questions or concerns. Others in our group were willing to also present our candidate that way. I made a conscious decision to NOT bring information about Senator Clinton's weak areas... I am not willing to play that type of game. I believe in success based upon our candidate's great qualities... winning as a result of trashing the opponent is not a "win", in my opinion.
Unfortunately, others were of another opinion. Yes, a couple of folks in the Obama group did get a dig or two... but they didn't dwell on it. But when it was time for the Clinton group to begin speaking, their spokesperson began a ten-minute (or more?) spew of attacks and misinformation regarding Senator Obama. In all fairness, Clinton's group as a whole were not expecting their representative to speak in that manner... but nobody stopped him. After a few minutes, our group tried to re-focus him on sharing Clinton's attributes but to no avail... he was too intent on spitting out poison. Finally, somebody called "time" and he sat down. It was so awful that people next to me were asking if he was a Republican... I said "no", that "all families have their drunk Uncle Bob and he was ours... sigh..." {Since our group was unable to address the accusations of this individual during the caucus, I will be doing so here on my blog and welcome the input from other participants of the evening...}
That was the only negative part of the evening... overall, the night was a complete success, in my opinion, no matter which candidate the participant was supporting. I don't think we could have fit another body into the room... everyone felt welcomed and listened to... if one wanted to speak, they were given the opportunity... we connected with old friends, strengthened friendships with current ones, and developed new friendships as well. Our delegates will represent us well at the state convention...
My favorite moments...
Joking around with one of the Clinton supporters... he's a great guy and we tease each other about our choices... in a friendly and respectful manner. He's someone I've only met this last year and I've sincerely enjoyed our conversations... and I really enjoyed it as Obama's numbers kept increasing during the evening, while his candidate's numbers ... well, let's just say that Obama was the clear winner of the evening! He's a gracious gentleman and took my teasing well!
Sharing the evening with some of my dearest friends... some were old friends, some are relatively new friends... we've shared our fears, our concerns, our frustrations about our losses, our families, our faith. Tuesday felt like the dawn of a new day... and I can't think of a more wonderful bunch of people to share that feeling with...
There were other "Kodak" moments of the evening, but the blue ribbon goes to sharing this memorable evening with my 17-year-old daughter. She will be 18 this summer and will be able to vote for the very first time. Watching her experience democracy in action is priceless.
Oh, yes, the results?
Clinton: 15 (23%, 1 delegate)
Edwards: 1 (2%)
Obama: 48 (73%, 2 delegates)
Uncommitted: 2 (3%)
(For complete statewide caucus breakdowns, go here.)
We all gathered in the back room at Sally's Office Solutions and Deli... folks started arriving early but they were very patient while we finished getting set up. (It helped that they could order soup, sandwiches, coffee, and more while they were waiting!)
Carpools came from Hagerman and a nice group came from Wendell... it was wonderful to see them! We missed folks from Bliss, but hopefully we'll be addressing that over the next few months. Since we live in a rural area, many of the faces were familiar and some were a surprise! I was able to re-connect with a woman from Wendell who I hadn't seen in at least 8 years, and put some faces to some names I recognized. A couple of Republicans joined us and I really think they felt welcomed.
As volunteers, some who are new to the caucus process, we had some bumps during the evening... I hope those of you who noticed will be willing to help us out next time! We'd greatly appreciate it!
We broke into our groups and that is when the "fun" started...
I prepared for the night by bringing information about Senator Obama's positions and plans. I wanted to be able to inform, clarify, educate, etc. if there were any questions or concerns. Others in our group were willing to also present our candidate that way. I made a conscious decision to NOT bring information about Senator Clinton's weak areas... I am not willing to play that type of game. I believe in success based upon our candidate's great qualities... winning as a result of trashing the opponent is not a "win", in my opinion.
Unfortunately, others were of another opinion. Yes, a couple of folks in the Obama group did get a dig or two... but they didn't dwell on it. But when it was time for the Clinton group to begin speaking, their spokesperson began a ten-minute (or more?) spew of attacks and misinformation regarding Senator Obama. In all fairness, Clinton's group as a whole were not expecting their representative to speak in that manner... but nobody stopped him. After a few minutes, our group tried to re-focus him on sharing Clinton's attributes but to no avail... he was too intent on spitting out poison. Finally, somebody called "time" and he sat down. It was so awful that people next to me were asking if he was a Republican... I said "no", that "all families have their drunk Uncle Bob and he was ours... sigh..." {Since our group was unable to address the accusations of this individual during the caucus, I will be doing so here on my blog and welcome the input from other participants of the evening...}
That was the only negative part of the evening... overall, the night was a complete success, in my opinion, no matter which candidate the participant was supporting. I don't think we could have fit another body into the room... everyone felt welcomed and listened to... if one wanted to speak, they were given the opportunity... we connected with old friends, strengthened friendships with current ones, and developed new friendships as well. Our delegates will represent us well at the state convention...
My favorite moments...
Joking around with one of the Clinton supporters... he's a great guy and we tease each other about our choices... in a friendly and respectful manner. He's someone I've only met this last year and I've sincerely enjoyed our conversations... and I really enjoyed it as Obama's numbers kept increasing during the evening, while his candidate's numbers ... well, let's just say that Obama was the clear winner of the evening! He's a gracious gentleman and took my teasing well!
Sharing the evening with some of my dearest friends... some were old friends, some are relatively new friends... we've shared our fears, our concerns, our frustrations about our losses, our families, our faith. Tuesday felt like the dawn of a new day... and I can't think of a more wonderful bunch of people to share that feeling with...
There were other "Kodak" moments of the evening, but the blue ribbon goes to sharing this memorable evening with my 17-year-old daughter. She will be 18 this summer and will be able to vote for the very first time. Watching her experience democracy in action is priceless.
Oh, yes, the results?
Clinton: 15 (23%, 1 delegate)
Edwards: 1 (2%)
Obama: 48 (73%, 2 delegates)
Uncommitted: 2 (3%)
(For complete statewide caucus breakdowns, go here.)
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Road Trip, anyone???
Obama will be visiting Boise this upcoming Saturday...
If you are an Obama supporter...
If you are an undecided Democrat...
If you are an American who wants to make an informed choice at the polls...
Consider being a part of this gathering!!
{Currently, there is a group from the Gooding area who is coordinating a "road trip"... contact me for more information if you would like to join us! The song that is going through my head right now is "Convoy" by C.W. McCall! Can you picture it... from Eastern Idaho, picking more in the MiniCassia area, then Twin Falls, then at the Bliss exit, then Glenns Ferry, then Mountain Home... and then BOISE?? Wouldn't that be a sight to see!!)
If you are an Obama supporter...
If you are an undecided Democrat...
If you are an American who wants to make an informed choice at the polls...
Consider being a part of this gathering!!
{Currently, there is a group from the Gooding area who is coordinating a "road trip"... contact me for more information if you would like to join us! The song that is going through my head right now is "Convoy" by C.W. McCall! Can you picture it... from Eastern Idaho, picking more in the MiniCassia area, then Twin Falls, then at the Bliss exit, then Glenns Ferry, then Mountain Home... and then BOISE?? Wouldn't that be a sight to see!!)
It's your ONLY chance!!
If you are Republican or Independent (or ___!) and either still thinking about it or possibly leaning toward a Democratic candidate, please read the following with an open mind...
For ALL Idahoans, it is VERY important for you to know about our political process...
If you decide that you wish to support one of the Democratic nominees for President, you need to know Tuesday, February 5 is a critical day.
No matter what your party affiliation, if you support a Democratic president, Feb. 5 is your ONLY opportunity to participate in the selection of the Democratic candidate for the November election.
Yes, I said "ONLY" opportunity.
The Democratic Party nomination for President is based upon Caucus results... NOT THE MAY PRIMARY. This is new information to me... maybe not to others, but I'm still in the "learning process" of politics!
IF YOU ARE NOT A DEMOCRAT...
The Democratic caucus does not require participants to be members of the Democratic Party!!! We only ask you NOT to vote for a Republican Presidential candidate in the May primary. You can still vote on the Republican side of the ticket in the Primary—just not for President. And however you choose to vote in November is still your choice (obviously!).
IF YOU ARE NOT REGISTERED TO VOTE...
You can vote in the caucus as long as you are a county resident, whether you are registered to vote at that time or not. (You can register at the caucus if you choose.)
IF YOU ARE 17 YEARS OLD...
If you will be 18 by November 4, you can also participate in the caucus.
IF YOU WANT MORE INFORMATION...
For further information about your local Democratic caucus, please go to the Idaho Democratic Party website. If you are in Gooding County, you can contact me if you want.
For ALL Idahoans, it is VERY important for you to know about our political process...
If you decide that you wish to support one of the Democratic nominees for President, you need to know Tuesday, February 5 is a critical day.
No matter what your party affiliation, if you support a Democratic president, Feb. 5 is your ONLY opportunity to participate in the selection of the Democratic candidate for the November election.
Yes, I said "ONLY" opportunity.
The Democratic Party nomination for President is based upon Caucus results... NOT THE MAY PRIMARY. This is new information to me... maybe not to others, but I'm still in the "learning process" of politics!
IF YOU ARE NOT A DEMOCRAT...
The Democratic caucus does not require participants to be members of the Democratic Party!!! We only ask you NOT to vote for a Republican Presidential candidate in the May primary. You can still vote on the Republican side of the ticket in the Primary—just not for President. And however you choose to vote in November is still your choice (obviously!).
IF YOU ARE NOT REGISTERED TO VOTE...
You can vote in the caucus as long as you are a county resident, whether you are registered to vote at that time or not. (You can register at the caucus if you choose.)
IF YOU ARE 17 YEARS OLD...
If you will be 18 by November 4, you can also participate in the caucus.
IF YOU WANT MORE INFORMATION...
For further information about your local Democratic caucus, please go to the Idaho Democratic Party website. If you are in Gooding County, you can contact me if you want.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Gooding Drinking Liberally
I've had several people contact me about Gooding Drinking Liberally... we want to start it up again.
However, this is NOT my group... it's for anybody in the area who wants to socialize with other liberals, progressives, Democrats, Independents, or left-leaning thinkers. We can share, laugh, watch liberal movies, have speakers, whatever. It is not a political organization and does not endorse any political party, candidate, etc., but will mostly provide support for each other as we process our concerns about certain issues which we (as liberal-types) feel are not being addressed by conservatives in our (as citizens of Idaho and America) best interest (whether it is education or civil rights or whatever...). If you have any questions or want clarification, please let me know...
If you are in the slightest bit interested, please e-mail me with answers to the following questions:
- Are you interested?
- How often do you want to meet?
- What days?
- What times?
- What locations? (THIS IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES! Any suggestions???)
- Do you want "special guests"?
- Do you want to gather and watch certain shows/movies together?
- What else would you want?
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Gooding County Democrats website
Check out the website for the Gooding County Democrats! Sign up to keep informed or to volunteer! TOGETHER... We can do it!
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Upcoming schedule for Gooding DL
Mark Your Calendars!
Friday, May 26
Bob Wallace, Democratic Candidate for State Attorney General, will be joining us this Friday as our "Special Visitor". I'm quite looking forward to visiting with him. I hope lots of you show up so I don't monopolize his time and attention!! {Just FYI... this is the FIRST special visitor who contacted US offering to visit with the group! The word is getting out!!}
Friday, June 2 {Coordination still in progress!}
Friday June 9
Special Visitor: Donna Pence, District #25 Representative. This is a great opportunity for us to hear a legislative report from this last session, learn about what is in the works, and share our own opinions and concerns.
Friday, June 16
Special Visitor: Wendy Jaquet, District #25 Representative. Another great opportunity to interact with our local representative!
Friday, June 24
This is the weekend of the Democratic Convention so liberals who are still in town will get together just for visiting and support.
FYI: Idaho Falls Drinking Liberally and Gooding Drinking Liberally have been discussing a joint meet-up over the weekend as well. Boise? Moscow? Let's talk!
Friday, June 30 {Coordination still in progress!}
Friday, May 26
Bob Wallace, Democratic Candidate for State Attorney General, will be joining us this Friday as our "Special Visitor". I'm quite looking forward to visiting with him. I hope lots of you show up so I don't monopolize his time and attention!! {Just FYI... this is the FIRST special visitor who contacted US offering to visit with the group! The word is getting out!!}
Friday, June 2 {Coordination still in progress!}
Friday June 9
Special Visitor: Donna Pence, District #25 Representative. This is a great opportunity for us to hear a legislative report from this last session, learn about what is in the works, and share our own opinions and concerns.
Friday, June 16
Special Visitor: Wendy Jaquet, District #25 Representative. Another great opportunity to interact with our local representative!
Friday, June 24
This is the weekend of the Democratic Convention so liberals who are still in town will get together just for visiting and support.
FYI: Idaho Falls Drinking Liberally and Gooding Drinking Liberally have been discussing a joint meet-up over the weekend as well. Boise? Moscow? Let's talk!
Friday, June 30 {Coordination still in progress!}
If the weather is nice, we are out on the back patio!
Just head to the back of Rowdy's and turn left at the pool table.
Just head to the back of Rowdy's and turn left at the pool table.
For more information, go to Gooding Drinking Liberally,
Monday, April 17, 2006
Video of Magic Dam on Saturday
TEST...
I've not done this before so if it doesn't work for you, let me know.
This is a video shared with me from Doc Davis of Shoshone who received it from his friend Cecil (who I've never met but I can testify he takes the most beautiful pictures of Idaho scenery!!).
Wish me luck!
Click here to view video (MPEG format, 7 meg)
UPDATE: It should be working now...! Thank you, Serephin!
I've not done this before so if it doesn't work for you, let me know.
This is a video shared with me from Doc Davis of Shoshone who received it from his friend Cecil (who I've never met but I can testify he takes the most beautiful pictures of Idaho scenery!!).
Wish me luck!
Click here to view video (MPEG format, 7 meg)
UPDATE: It should be working now...! Thank you, Serephin!
Monday's flood news...
Weather service continues flood warning on Big Wood
Water spilling over channel banks
URGENT - IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
FLOOD STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE BOISE ID
845 AM MDT MON APR 17 2006
...THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS CONTINUED THE FLOOD WARNING FOR THE BIG WOOD RIVER IN GOODING COUNTY IDAHO.
DISCHARGE FROM THE MAGIC RESERVOIR WAS MEASURED AT 5500 CFS ON MONDAY MORNING AND SHOULD LEVEL OFF AROUND 5800 CFS LATER TODAY.
THE RIVER CHANNEL BELOW THE RESERVOIR IS EXPERIENCING FLOODING IN SOME SECTIONS WITH WATER SPILLING OVER ITS BANKS.
THE WATER IN THE CHANNEL NEAR GOODING IS STILL RISING AND WAS MEASURED AT A STAGE 8.13 FEET NEAR THE HIGHWAY 46 BRIDGE NORTH OF GOODING ON MONDAY MORNING.
THE RIVER WILL RISE ANOTHER FOOT TO A CREST AROUND 9.0 FEET ON MONDAY NIGHT OR TUESDAY MORNING NEAR THE HIGHWAY 46 BRIDGE.
AT THESE LEVELS...FLOODING WILL OCCUR NEAR THE BRIDGE. WATER IS NOT EXPECTED TO SPILL OVER THE ROAD UNLESS IT REACHES 10 FEET AT THE BRIDGE WHICH COULD OCCUR IF DEBRIS IN THE RIVER PILES UP ON THE BRIDGE. PERSONS WITH INTERESTS NEAR THE BIG WOOD RIVER SHOULD CONTINUE TO TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT PROPERTY.
TIMES-NEWS Front Page Story
Big Wood River rising
Neighbors of river work to protect their homes
By Sandy MillerTimes-News writer
GOODING -- John Gies stood on his back porch Sunday afternoon, looking at the pond that used to be his backyard.The Big Wood River was rising, but Gies didn't seem too concerned."It's flooded before," Gies said. "It doesn't come over the banks. It's always a nuisance, but we've been through this before and I suppose we'll get through it again." {Read more...}
Water spilling over channel banks
URGENT - IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
FLOOD STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE BOISE ID
845 AM MDT MON APR 17 2006
...THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS CONTINUED THE FLOOD WARNING FOR THE BIG WOOD RIVER IN GOODING COUNTY IDAHO.
DISCHARGE FROM THE MAGIC RESERVOIR WAS MEASURED AT 5500 CFS ON MONDAY MORNING AND SHOULD LEVEL OFF AROUND 5800 CFS LATER TODAY.
THE RIVER CHANNEL BELOW THE RESERVOIR IS EXPERIENCING FLOODING IN SOME SECTIONS WITH WATER SPILLING OVER ITS BANKS.
THE WATER IN THE CHANNEL NEAR GOODING IS STILL RISING AND WAS MEASURED AT A STAGE 8.13 FEET NEAR THE HIGHWAY 46 BRIDGE NORTH OF GOODING ON MONDAY MORNING.
THE RIVER WILL RISE ANOTHER FOOT TO A CREST AROUND 9.0 FEET ON MONDAY NIGHT OR TUESDAY MORNING NEAR THE HIGHWAY 46 BRIDGE.
AT THESE LEVELS...FLOODING WILL OCCUR NEAR THE BRIDGE. WATER IS NOT EXPECTED TO SPILL OVER THE ROAD UNLESS IT REACHES 10 FEET AT THE BRIDGE WHICH COULD OCCUR IF DEBRIS IN THE RIVER PILES UP ON THE BRIDGE. PERSONS WITH INTERESTS NEAR THE BIG WOOD RIVER SHOULD CONTINUE TO TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT PROPERTY.
TIMES-NEWS Front Page Story
Big Wood River rising
Neighbors of river work to protect their homes
By Sandy MillerTimes-News writer
GOODING -- John Gies stood on his back porch Sunday afternoon, looking at the pond that used to be his backyard.The Big Wood River was rising, but Gies didn't seem too concerned."It's flooded before," Gies said. "It doesn't come over the banks. It's always a nuisance, but we've been through this before and I suppose we'll get through it again." {Read more...}
Gooding DL Special Guest: Representative Nicole LaFavour
GOODING DRINKING LIBERALLY
Promoting Democracy One Glass at a Time
Promoting Democracy One Glass at a Time
Gooding Drinking Liberally has invited Representative Nicole LaFavour (District #19) as a “special guest” at this week’s gathering on Friday night, April 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Rowdy’s, 227 Main Street.
Representative LaFavour has been a small business owner and educator, in addition to her works involvements in open space preservation, human rights, education, and health care. She was a recipient of the 2001 United Nations Human Rights Day Award from Idaho Voices of Faith for Human Rights as well as named as a "Woman Making History" by the Boise State University Women's Center that year. The citizens who went to Boise to testify in support of the moratorium regarding coal-plants should remember her as the legislator who requested the individual speaking against the moratorium go on record as being paid by SEMPRA for his testimony.
For more information about Representative LaFavour, go to www.4idaho.org.
Gooding Drinking Liberally is an open club consisting of weekly guests and regulars including local politicians and their staffers, political organizers, activists, would-be volunteers and newly interested chit-chatters— all in a casual, inclusive environment. They welcome anyone who wishes to participate in discussion about progressive, liberal topics and concerns. Agreement isn’t required, only respect.
Gooding Drinking Liberally is an open club consisting of weekly guests and regulars including local politicians and their staffers, political organizers, activists, would-be volunteers and newly interested chit-chatters— all in a casual, inclusive environment. They welcome anyone who wishes to participate in discussion about progressive, liberal topics and concerns. Agreement isn’t required, only respect.
Gooding Drinking Liberally does not require membership, dues, or even drinking… but they do request that participants leave a “liberal” tip for the hard-working servers who strive to ensure the glasses are full of ice tea, soda, or whatever.
For more information about Gooding Drinking Liberally, visit http://www.drinkingliberally.org/ or contact Diana Rowe Pauls at gooding@drinkingliberally.org.
For more information about Gooding Drinking Liberally, visit http://www.drinkingliberally.org/ or contact Diana Rowe Pauls at gooding@drinkingliberally.org.
NOTE: I sent this out as a News Release (along with a more general release)... if you happen to catch any publicity whether in print or broadcast, would you please let me know? I'm curious to see how many will actually run anything because we have two barriers: being liberal AND being in Gooding. I bet 90% of Idaho is trying to figure out where the h*** is Gooding as they hear about the flooding!!
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Flooding updates: April 16...
KMVT {Current Story: video may be posted later}
Flood Warning in Effect: Gooding & Lincoln Counties
The Red Cross is mobilizing to respond to what has officially been declared a flood emergency. The American Red Cross Emergency Manager says there is a strong possibility that with in the next three days an emergency shelter will be needed in Shoshone. The Red Cross is also on stand by to set up a shelter in Gooding.
Lincoln County Disaster Service Manager Mike Bright says 5,000 cubic feet of water is coming over the Magic Dam each second. He says the disaster service is in contact with citizens in Gooding and Lincoln counties who live in low lying areas.
KMVT {Current Story: video may be posted later...}
Residents in Gooding County Prepare for Flooding.
Those residents are in for some flooding as the water gushes from Magic Reservoir.As you can imagine the anxiety levels are also running high for these residents.As some of them feel like they live on islands today.
This is what the Geise's backyard in Gooding looked like just yesterday... What a difference a day makes.
Thanks to seasonal run–off from Magic Valley Reservoir...the Big Wood River is bursting its banks...and causing chaos throughout the magic valley.
This was the scene just north of Shoshone at the Keating ranch...The big wood overflowed its banks while we were there...making another river right next to it.And thanks to the run–off...scenes like this one are all too common throughout the magic valley...and it's got some folks pretty nervous.
But Capps says folks that live in Gooding don't need to worry about flooding just yet. But the Geise's live just out of town...and have a whole lot of water on their hands. Geise says all things considered it could be a lot worse. "It's a lot of water it's a whole lot of water and a nuisance but i think we'll get through it unscathed."
KTVB (includes slideshow with some good pictures of Magic):
Gooding residents spend Easter Sunday watching floodwaters rise
GOODING - Floodwater threatened some Magic Valley residents and forced homeowners to spend Easter Sunday monitoring water levels and hoping against flooding.
The rising floodwater became a threat when the Magic Reservoir filled to the brim, and water spilled over into the Big Wood River. The National Weather Service issued a flood warning Saturday for that southeastern Idaho River, after operators of Magic Reservoir said outflow below the dam will surpass 6,000 cubic feet per second. Gooding County Sheriff Shaun Gough said nearly 20 county homes are threatened by the rising water, but have not flooded. The army corps of engineers, bureau of homeland security and Gooding disaster services is on standby.
Experts say the river that runs through town is high, but does not pose a threat to homes and businesses. The community is more concerned with the Big Wood River. If consistent rain and snow continues followed by warm temperatures in the mountains, even more flooding can be expected.
"We are just going to watch the water flow through Camas Creek and the Big Wood and see what the weather does up above, that is controlling us," said Sheriff Gough on Sunday. The water is expected to peak sometime on Monday, but experts said it could be a month before floodwaters are no longer a threat.
KMVT {includes video}
IDT Prepares for Flooding from Magic Dam
Thanks to all the storms southern Idaho saw this winter, employees of the Idaho Transportation Department got plenty of practice in responding to emergencies... so their dump trucks and backhoes are ready to go wherever they're needed to control water coming from Magic Dam.
Devin Rigby is a District Engineer with ITD. He says, “Our main interest is the state highway system and the bridges that go over the Wood River and the Little Wood River, and making sure that our system remains functional."
Rigby says the ITD has its equipment strategically located in Carey, Shoshone, and Bliss so employees can get to any problem areas as quickly as possible.Friday, hundreds of cubic feet per second of water poured over the spillways just west of the top of Magic Dam.
KMVT Weather Director Michael Rogers says, "We're just basically starting the beginning of this water coming down toward our area. So you look at the Camas Prairie runoff from there. In another couple of weeks we're going to start mountain runoff, and then things are going to get pretty bad."
Rogers also says all that water has to go somewhere, and it's definitely headed our way. He says because of water flowing from all the little streams that feed the rivers in northern Magic Valley, we're going to see runoff on a big scale for the first time in a long time.
Times-News: Kempthorne declares flood emergency
KMVT {UPDATE from previous post: video included for previous story}
Magic Reservoir Closer to Flowing Over
...However, as of 6:00 p.m. Wednesday the water level of the reservoir had risen to within only one foot of the spillway...
KMVT {UPDATE from previous post: video included for previous story}
Gooding Citizens of All Ages Prepare for Worst
...More than 100 Gooding students filled 4,500 sandbags...
Idaho Statesman:
Southern Idaho counties brace for more potential flooding
Heavy spring runoff and frequent spring rains continue to both bless and plague communities across Idaho.
On Saturday, the National Weather Service issued flood warnings for Gooding, Blaine and Lincoln counties, as well as less urgent flood watches for Bear Lake, Bonneville, Caribou, Cassia, Franklin, Fremont, Oneida and Teton counties.The governor issued a flood declaration Friday and it was a dramatic change from recent years, when several southern Idaho counties received drought emergency declarations each fall.
The declaration allows state officials to administer disaster emergency account funds up to $50,000 to provide assistance to local agencies. [snip]In Gooding County, the Big Wood River was expected to fill to the bank sometime Saturday, with minor flooding happening by this morning. By this afternoon, the water is expected to reach the level of the highway north of Gooding, the weather service warned.The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has sent an emergency management coordinator to Gooding to help emergency planners in nearby counties prepare for the flood threat, officials said. {read more...}
Flood Warning in Effect: Gooding & Lincoln Counties
The Red Cross is mobilizing to respond to what has officially been declared a flood emergency. The American Red Cross Emergency Manager says there is a strong possibility that with in the next three days an emergency shelter will be needed in Shoshone. The Red Cross is also on stand by to set up a shelter in Gooding.
Lincoln County Disaster Service Manager Mike Bright says 5,000 cubic feet of water is coming over the Magic Dam each second. He says the disaster service is in contact with citizens in Gooding and Lincoln counties who live in low lying areas.
KMVT {Current Story: video may be posted later...}
Residents in Gooding County Prepare for Flooding.
Those residents are in for some flooding as the water gushes from Magic Reservoir.As you can imagine the anxiety levels are also running high for these residents.As some of them feel like they live on islands today.
This is what the Geise's backyard in Gooding looked like just yesterday... What a difference a day makes.
Thanks to seasonal run–off from Magic Valley Reservoir...the Big Wood River is bursting its banks...and causing chaos throughout the magic valley.
This was the scene just north of Shoshone at the Keating ranch...The big wood overflowed its banks while we were there...making another river right next to it.And thanks to the run–off...scenes like this one are all too common throughout the magic valley...and it's got some folks pretty nervous.
But Capps says folks that live in Gooding don't need to worry about flooding just yet. But the Geise's live just out of town...and have a whole lot of water on their hands. Geise says all things considered it could be a lot worse. "It's a lot of water it's a whole lot of water and a nuisance but i think we'll get through it unscathed."
KTVB (includes slideshow with some good pictures of Magic):
Gooding residents spend Easter Sunday watching floodwaters rise
GOODING - Floodwater threatened some Magic Valley residents and forced homeowners to spend Easter Sunday monitoring water levels and hoping against flooding.
The rising floodwater became a threat when the Magic Reservoir filled to the brim, and water spilled over into the Big Wood River. The National Weather Service issued a flood warning Saturday for that southeastern Idaho River, after operators of Magic Reservoir said outflow below the dam will surpass 6,000 cubic feet per second. Gooding County Sheriff Shaun Gough said nearly 20 county homes are threatened by the rising water, but have not flooded. The army corps of engineers, bureau of homeland security and Gooding disaster services is on standby.
Experts say the river that runs through town is high, but does not pose a threat to homes and businesses. The community is more concerned with the Big Wood River. If consistent rain and snow continues followed by warm temperatures in the mountains, even more flooding can be expected.
"We are just going to watch the water flow through Camas Creek and the Big Wood and see what the weather does up above, that is controlling us," said Sheriff Gough on Sunday. The water is expected to peak sometime on Monday, but experts said it could be a month before floodwaters are no longer a threat.
KMVT {includes video}
IDT Prepares for Flooding from Magic Dam
Thanks to all the storms southern Idaho saw this winter, employees of the Idaho Transportation Department got plenty of practice in responding to emergencies... so their dump trucks and backhoes are ready to go wherever they're needed to control water coming from Magic Dam.
Devin Rigby is a District Engineer with ITD. He says, “Our main interest is the state highway system and the bridges that go over the Wood River and the Little Wood River, and making sure that our system remains functional."
Rigby says the ITD has its equipment strategically located in Carey, Shoshone, and Bliss so employees can get to any problem areas as quickly as possible.Friday, hundreds of cubic feet per second of water poured over the spillways just west of the top of Magic Dam.
KMVT Weather Director Michael Rogers says, "We're just basically starting the beginning of this water coming down toward our area. So you look at the Camas Prairie runoff from there. In another couple of weeks we're going to start mountain runoff, and then things are going to get pretty bad."
Rogers also says all that water has to go somewhere, and it's definitely headed our way. He says because of water flowing from all the little streams that feed the rivers in northern Magic Valley, we're going to see runoff on a big scale for the first time in a long time.
Times-News: Kempthorne declares flood emergency
KMVT {UPDATE from previous post: video included for previous story}
Magic Reservoir Closer to Flowing Over
...However, as of 6:00 p.m. Wednesday the water level of the reservoir had risen to within only one foot of the spillway...
KMVT {UPDATE from previous post: video included for previous story}
Gooding Citizens of All Ages Prepare for Worst
...More than 100 Gooding students filled 4,500 sandbags...
Idaho Statesman:
Southern Idaho counties brace for more potential flooding
Heavy spring runoff and frequent spring rains continue to both bless and plague communities across Idaho.
On Saturday, the National Weather Service issued flood warnings for Gooding, Blaine and Lincoln counties, as well as less urgent flood watches for Bear Lake, Bonneville, Caribou, Cassia, Franklin, Fremont, Oneida and Teton counties.The governor issued a flood declaration Friday and it was a dramatic change from recent years, when several southern Idaho counties received drought emergency declarations each fall.
The declaration allows state officials to administer disaster emergency account funds up to $50,000 to provide assistance to local agencies. [snip]In Gooding County, the Big Wood River was expected to fill to the bank sometime Saturday, with minor flooding happening by this morning. By this afternoon, the water is expected to reach the level of the highway north of Gooding, the weather service warned.The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has sent an emergency management coordinator to Gooding to help emergency planners in nearby counties prepare for the flood threat, officials said. {read more...}
Friday, April 14, 2006
Local media coverage regarding flooding
Big Wood River Flood {KTVB video -- includes rivers and locals}
Gooding Citizens of All Ages Prepare for Worst {KMVT}
Lincoln County braces for flooding {Times-News}
Water levels in the Magic Reservoir are on the rise. Lincoln County Commissioner have declared a state of emergency. The area with the highest potential for flooding is where Highway 46 crosses the Big Wood River, north of Gooding. That's where David Gale reports from...1952 flood photos {Times-News}
Gordon Sorensen's photos of the 1952 flooding and previous flood years of the Big Wood River near his property north of Shoshone.Magic Reservoir Closer to Flowing Over {KMVT}
As we first told you Tuesday, water managers believe Magic Reservoir could over flow into the Big Wood River. In fact, Big Wood Canal Co. Manager Lynn Harmon said it could happen as early as Wednesday. However, as of 6:00 p.m. Wednesday the water level of the reservoir had risen to within only one foot of the spillway. Harmon said it would be difficult to predict exactly when the overflow could happen and that it all depends on how quickly excess water enters the reservoir.
Gooding Citizens of All Ages Prepare for Worst {KMVT}
With the probability of flooding in Gooding region many area residents of all ages were busy Wednesday.More than 100 Gooding students filled 4,500 sandbags. Most of those students were from Gooding High School but they shared the work with their counterparts from the Idaho School for the Deaf and Blind. Eric Rainey, the Principal at Gooding High School says, “We've been out here for two hours today and the students are just so excited to help out. They worked way hard, the county fed them lunch." Rainey says 150 Gooding High School students signed up to help with the sandbagging effort but he could only bring about half of them out along with three teachers.
Kody Cowen is a student at Gooding High School. He says, "Basically it's just important because it comes out, helps the community, and it'll help keep people and their property safe." Cowen says this team effort shows the students work ethic,
and what they can do and that even teenagers can contribute to their community.
Lincoln County braces for flooding {Times-News}
SHOSHONE -- Construction crews will spend today shoring up a section of the Big Wood River channel in hopes of preventing a breach. {read more...}
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
We can take a break from the "rain dance" now!
Well, we are in a really unfamiliar position here in Gooding this week.
Gooding has two rivers: Big Wood River (which flows to the north of town) and the Little Wood River (which flows directly THROUGH town). Many people think of the Little Wood River as just a "canal", which implies that PEOPLE rather than nature can control it. Not true. Many many years ago (60? 70?), the Army Corps of Engineers built a rock wall to contain the river as it flows by back yards, parks, and schools. This wall has deteriorated dramatically over the years. Our small town is unable to afford to repair/replace it and each year we wait for federal funding, the price increases by hundreds of thousands of dollars. I believe the last estimate for the project was over $10 million dollars. (The feds didn't think that repairing our river wall was as important as building a bridge to an island in Alaska, populated with 50 people who didn't WANT the bridge...)
The homeowners who live along the Little Wood River (three to four blocks to the north and south, approximately) are considered to live in a "flood plain". The only time people really know about that is when they are financed for their homes, because the banks require flood insurance. It's kind of been a joke because we live in a high desert and have been in a drought for so many years. Floods are just out of our frame of reality!
This year is different as we are realizing this week. We've had a great snowfall this winter and lots of rain. The Magic Reservoir (which feeds these rivers) is at capacity. In the next 24-48 hours, as it continues to rain and snow continues to melt, Magic will overflow. This excess water will end up in Gooding.
The hardest part is actually accepting the reality of the possibility of an actual flood in Gooding. The next hardest part is trying to figure out who will be affected and how much? A couple of inches in the basements? A couple of feet along the streets? Will the water flow to the south or on both sides? Will the schools be affected? Will our children be "trapped" on the other side of the river (which is between the school and "town")? Will we lose power and water supply? Are some of us over-reacting? Are some people ignoring the possibility of "worst case situation" and will be unprepared? What am I neglecting to do to protect my own family?
It's just a really weird concept right now... how much reaction is too much, too little...
Remember the Katrina victims and how some people judged them about not preparing better for the hurricane? Well, officials (city, county, canal, etc.) are trying to prepare us here in Gooding... but yesterday, I drove around and I didn't see ANYBODY loading belongings into trucks, putting sandbags out in front of their houses, etc. I went to the store and I saw only one other person putting cases of water in their cart. There weren't even that many people in the store. Do people know? Are they already prepared? Or are they just not worried? Or am I over-reacting? I guess we'll know more in a few days...
A flood in Gooding. Who knew?
Gooding has two rivers: Big Wood River (which flows to the north of town) and the Little Wood River (which flows directly THROUGH town). Many people think of the Little Wood River as just a "canal", which implies that PEOPLE rather than nature can control it. Not true. Many many years ago (60? 70?), the Army Corps of Engineers built a rock wall to contain the river as it flows by back yards, parks, and schools. This wall has deteriorated dramatically over the years. Our small town is unable to afford to repair/replace it and each year we wait for federal funding, the price increases by hundreds of thousands of dollars. I believe the last estimate for the project was over $10 million dollars. (The feds didn't think that repairing our river wall was as important as building a bridge to an island in Alaska, populated with 50 people who didn't WANT the bridge...)
The homeowners who live along the Little Wood River (three to four blocks to the north and south, approximately) are considered to live in a "flood plain". The only time people really know about that is when they are financed for their homes, because the banks require flood insurance. It's kind of been a joke because we live in a high desert and have been in a drought for so many years. Floods are just out of our frame of reality!
This year is different as we are realizing this week. We've had a great snowfall this winter and lots of rain. The Magic Reservoir (which feeds these rivers) is at capacity. In the next 24-48 hours, as it continues to rain and snow continues to melt, Magic will overflow. This excess water will end up in Gooding.
The hardest part is actually accepting the reality of the possibility of an actual flood in Gooding. The next hardest part is trying to figure out who will be affected and how much? A couple of inches in the basements? A couple of feet along the streets? Will the water flow to the south or on both sides? Will the schools be affected? Will our children be "trapped" on the other side of the river (which is between the school and "town")? Will we lose power and water supply? Are some of us over-reacting? Are some people ignoring the possibility of "worst case situation" and will be unprepared? What am I neglecting to do to protect my own family?
It's just a really weird concept right now... how much reaction is too much, too little...
Remember the Katrina victims and how some people judged them about not preparing better for the hurricane? Well, officials (city, county, canal, etc.) are trying to prepare us here in Gooding... but yesterday, I drove around and I didn't see ANYBODY loading belongings into trucks, putting sandbags out in front of their houses, etc. I went to the store and I saw only one other person putting cases of water in their cart. There weren't even that many people in the store. Do people know? Are they already prepared? Or are they just not worried? Or am I over-reacting? I guess we'll know more in a few days...
A flood in Gooding. Who knew?
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Gooding DL mentioned at Ridenbaugh Press
In the remotest redlands
by Randy Stapilus
Gooding, Idaho’s namesake was Frank Gooding, a governor of Idaho around the turn of the century and one of the state’s most ferocious Republicans ever. And one of the founders, as a practical matter, of what is now the Idaho Republican Party. You’d expect that the place named after him - both county and its seat - would be Republican. It most certainly is. The only tinge of Democrats you’ll find here is the county’s link, as part of a legislative district, to Blaine County, which outvotes it and sends those Democratic legislative delegations to Boise.
Gooding is a farm town and food processing place, a whole lot like many of the small towns in southern Idaho. It is conservative Republican.
So how is it that an apparently lively chapter of Drinking Liberally is running there?
It meets on Fridays at Rowdy’s Pub and Grill. And it is lively enough to have scheduled a list of guests running forward to May 12, including a batch of statewide candidates include Jerry Brady (for governor) and Larry La Rocco (for lieutenant governor).
Boise and Moscow chapters are easier to fathom. Gooding takes us into a whole new plane . . .
by Randy Stapilus
Gooding, Idaho’s namesake was Frank Gooding, a governor of Idaho around the turn of the century and one of the state’s most ferocious Republicans ever. And one of the founders, as a practical matter, of what is now the Idaho Republican Party. You’d expect that the place named after him - both county and its seat - would be Republican. It most certainly is. The only tinge of Democrats you’ll find here is the county’s link, as part of a legislative district, to Blaine County, which outvotes it and sends those Democratic legislative delegations to Boise.
Gooding is a farm town and food processing place, a whole lot like many of the small towns in southern Idaho. It is conservative Republican.
So how is it that an apparently lively chapter of Drinking Liberally is running there?
It meets on Fridays at Rowdy’s Pub and Grill. And it is lively enough to have scheduled a list of guests running forward to May 12, including a batch of statewide candidates include Jerry Brady (for governor) and Larry La Rocco (for lieutenant governor).
Boise and Moscow chapters are easier to fathom. Gooding takes us into a whole new plane . . .
Gooding DL stimulates new activities?
At last night's meeting, several ideas came up for consideration:
One of the main issues we recognized and solved was the need for the Gooding County Democrats to hold regular meetings in addition to Gooding DL. The Gooding Drinking Liberally is NOT the same organization as the Gooding County Democrats. Gooding DL does not endorse any party, candidate, or issue--we only educate, inform, and socialize. However, many of the people who have been attending Gooding DL are ALSO members of the Gooding County Democrats and sometimes we slip in to discussion related to the other organization. So, we addressed THAT conflict by scheduling official Gooding County Democrat Party meetings PRIOR to the Gooding DL meetings. The Gooding Democrats will meet at 7PM and discuss canvassing, precinct captains, voter registrations, etc. at that time. At 7:30PM, we will take off our "Democrat" hats and just be liberals with those who join us then. Both meetings are open to anybody who wants to learn more about the local Democratic party or about liberal issues.
Other topics:
There was again discussion about the concern of the "drinking" part of "Drinking Liberally" and how some people may not be participating because of feeling uncomfortable in that setting. We do realize that any liberal group will be criticized by some, no matter WHAT we call it. (For crying out loud, think of the people who freaked out over a PEACE vigil!) But we still worry (is that a liberal thing?!) about folks who want the fellowship but are concerned about the misperceptions related to "drinking". One solution to that is to have another group (in addition to Gooding DL) called "Drinking Liberally in the AM", hold it at a coffee shop (or someone's house) in the mornings. Surely people won't think that we're getting drunk at Coyote Joe's?? HA!
Another project which several people were excited about is "Screening Liberally" where we gather to watch shows such as Fahrenheit 9/11, Bush's Brain, Bowling for Columbine, Thank You For Not Smoking, etc. We thought about doing that once a month or so. We would need a meeting location that is conducive to a group of people watching a movie in order to do that. Ideas? Suggestions?
We will also be incorporating "Reading Liberally" at future DL meetings as well. That can be a stand-alone club, if there is enough interest/involvement. We had a great start the other night as a couple of participants began sharing books which they have read. It was fascinating! Future "Reading Liberally" meetings can also incorporate "book exchanges" so we can share our resources with each other.
If anybody is interested in "Screening Liberally", "Reading Liberally", or "Drinking Liberally in the AM", let me know.
One of the main issues we recognized and solved was the need for the Gooding County Democrats to hold regular meetings in addition to Gooding DL. The Gooding Drinking Liberally is NOT the same organization as the Gooding County Democrats. Gooding DL does not endorse any party, candidate, or issue--we only educate, inform, and socialize. However, many of the people who have been attending Gooding DL are ALSO members of the Gooding County Democrats and sometimes we slip in to discussion related to the other organization. So, we addressed THAT conflict by scheduling official Gooding County Democrat Party meetings PRIOR to the Gooding DL meetings. The Gooding Democrats will meet at 7PM and discuss canvassing, precinct captains, voter registrations, etc. at that time. At 7:30PM, we will take off our "Democrat" hats and just be liberals with those who join us then. Both meetings are open to anybody who wants to learn more about the local Democratic party or about liberal issues.
Other topics:
There was again discussion about the concern of the "drinking" part of "Drinking Liberally" and how some people may not be participating because of feeling uncomfortable in that setting. We do realize that any liberal group will be criticized by some, no matter WHAT we call it. (For crying out loud, think of the people who freaked out over a PEACE vigil!) But we still worry (is that a liberal thing?!) about folks who want the fellowship but are concerned about the misperceptions related to "drinking". One solution to that is to have another group (in addition to Gooding DL) called "Drinking Liberally in the AM", hold it at a coffee shop (or someone's house) in the mornings. Surely people won't think that we're getting drunk at Coyote Joe's?? HA!
Another project which several people were excited about is "Screening Liberally" where we gather to watch shows such as Fahrenheit 9/11, Bush's Brain, Bowling for Columbine, Thank You For Not Smoking, etc. We thought about doing that once a month or so. We would need a meeting location that is conducive to a group of people watching a movie in order to do that. Ideas? Suggestions?
We will also be incorporating "Reading Liberally" at future DL meetings as well. That can be a stand-alone club, if there is enough interest/involvement. We had a great start the other night as a couple of participants began sharing books which they have read. It was fascinating! Future "Reading Liberally" meetings can also incorporate "book exchanges" so we can share our resources with each other.
If anybody is interested in "Screening Liberally", "Reading Liberally", or "Drinking Liberally in the AM", let me know.
Friday, March 31, 2006
Gooding DL upcoming schedule
Gooding DL has will have it's 5th meeting tonight and I think we can all state that it has been a successful start up of a new chapter! We've had some interesting reactions from our community but, overall, people have been positive and supportive.
We've contacted many "movers and shakers" as we could to be "special guests" at our gatherings and it has been exciting to hear back from them as they've all agreed to come to our little town to meet with us! WOW! I encourage anyone who wants to join us to please do so, let's remind these folks that liberals DO exist in Idaho, even in the middle of sagebrush! (Feel free to contact us for driving directions and suggestions for lodging if you are coming from far away!)
Tonight's "Special Guest" will be Alex Jones, the Idaho Democratic Party's field organizer for this region. You can read more about him here.
Upcoming guests include:
April 7 Dan Romero (Candidate for Lt. Governor)
April 14 Bert Marley (Candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction)
April 21 Representative Nicole LeFavour
April 28 Jana Jones (Candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction)
May 5 Jerry Brady (Candidate for Governor)
May 12 Larry LaRocco (Candidate for Lt. Governor)
Gooding DL meets every Friday, at 7:30 pm at Rowdy's Pub and Grill, 227 Main St (right next to Zeppe's) (map).
We're nice, happy liberals and it's free to join--no guilt, dues, hazing or sketchy rituals! We encourage folks to wear BLUE so newcomers will be able to recognize our group! (Or your favorite progressive liberal/Democrat shirt!)
You can e-mail us at gooding@drinkingliberally.org . Please join the Gooding mailing list to receive meeting updates, summaries, and reminders. You can read the Gooding blog or discuss stuff in the Gooding forum.
If you aren't in Gooding, please consider checking out the Drinking Liberally clubs in Moscow and Boise! (Or in your own home state if you aren't in Idaho!) Or share this with other liberals in your community and get together to start your own! It is a very painless procedure to start a club and it is quite rewarding for those of us looking to network in an informal manner.
We've contacted many "movers and shakers" as we could to be "special guests" at our gatherings and it has been exciting to hear back from them as they've all agreed to come to our little town to meet with us! WOW! I encourage anyone who wants to join us to please do so, let's remind these folks that liberals DO exist in Idaho, even in the middle of sagebrush! (Feel free to contact us for driving directions and suggestions for lodging if you are coming from far away!)
Tonight's "Special Guest" will be Alex Jones, the Idaho Democratic Party's field organizer for this region. You can read more about him here.
Upcoming guests include:
April 7 Dan Romero (Candidate for Lt. Governor)
April 14 Bert Marley (Candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction)
April 21 Representative Nicole LeFavour
April 28 Jana Jones (Candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction)
May 5 Jerry Brady (Candidate for Governor)
May 12 Larry LaRocco (Candidate for Lt. Governor)
Gooding DL meets every Friday, at 7:30 pm at Rowdy's Pub and Grill, 227 Main St (right next to Zeppe's) (map).
We're nice, happy liberals and it's free to join--no guilt, dues, hazing or sketchy rituals! We encourage folks to wear BLUE so newcomers will be able to recognize our group! (Or your favorite progressive liberal/Democrat shirt!)
You can e-mail us at gooding@drinkingliberally.org . Please join the Gooding mailing list to receive meeting updates, summaries, and reminders. You can read the Gooding blog or discuss stuff in the Gooding forum.
If you aren't in Gooding, please consider checking out the Drinking Liberally clubs in Moscow and Boise! (Or in your own home state if you aren't in Idaho!) Or share this with other liberals in your community and get together to start your own! It is a very painless procedure to start a club and it is quite rewarding for those of us looking to network in an informal manner.
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
These poor pathetic confused people...
When I first read it, I started laughing.
But after a minute, I pitied the author. She is so ignorant that she just doesn't get it.
BACKGROUND: During a LTE back and forth about politics where I (a liberal) was being criticized by others (conservatives), another letter basically stating "thumbs up" was sent in by someone I knew personally (NOT A FRIEND) in support of the conservative who vehemently disagreed with me. The intent of that letter was less supportive of the conservative's position and more to get a dig into me... but oh, how it actually backfired... and they are both too ignorant to see it.
This was my response to the poor pathetic fool who just doesn't know any better...
*****, you just don't understand that the Republicans hate everything your life represents. They object on moral and religious grounds your right to use legal abortion as a method of birth control. They want to eliminate the illegals/immigrants who have fathered two of your children (and the twins you aborted). They wouldn't understand why you do not have custody of your third child. They resent paying to house your oldest two children as guests of the correctional system. They wouldn't approve of your "living in sin" and having children out of wedlock. They want to take away the social services which have supported you as an uneducated single parent. I'm glad you have bettered your life, but did you access financial aid for your education? Republicans are slashing those resources as well.
*****, I won't pretend to know (the conservative) well, but from many of the conversations that she and I have had in the past, I have a pretty good idea that she would consider you something to scrape off the bottom of her shoe. If you continue to support people like (the conservative), you are going to support removing all of the resources that have helped you to be where you are today. Unfortunately, not only do you represent the type of American despised by conservatives but people like you also make it more difficult for liberals to fight for the rights that you've abused. In addition, I truly doubt (the conservative) would appreciate your "thumbs up".
I pity you for your ignorance.
As much as I find your letter amusing, I also find it pathetic. You are a poster child for Republican arguments against social programs and you don't even realize it.
[Edited 12/16/2006 and again 04/3/2016]
But after a minute, I pitied the author. She is so ignorant that she just doesn't get it.
BACKGROUND: During a LTE back and forth about politics where I (a liberal) was being criticized by others (conservatives), another letter basically stating "thumbs up" was sent in by someone I knew personally (NOT A FRIEND) in support of the conservative who vehemently disagreed with me. The intent of that letter was less supportive of the conservative's position and more to get a dig into me... but oh, how it actually backfired... and they are both too ignorant to see it.
This was my response to the poor pathetic fool who just doesn't know any better...
*****, you just don't understand that the Republicans hate everything your life represents. They object on moral and religious grounds your right to use legal abortion as a method of birth control. They want to eliminate the illegals/immigrants who have fathered two of your children (and the twins you aborted). They wouldn't understand why you do not have custody of your third child. They resent paying to house your oldest two children as guests of the correctional system. They wouldn't approve of your "living in sin" and having children out of wedlock. They want to take away the social services which have supported you as an uneducated single parent. I'm glad you have bettered your life, but did you access financial aid for your education? Republicans are slashing those resources as well.
*****, I won't pretend to know (the conservative) well, but from many of the conversations that she and I have had in the past, I have a pretty good idea that she would consider you something to scrape off the bottom of her shoe. If you continue to support people like (the conservative), you are going to support removing all of the resources that have helped you to be where you are today. Unfortunately, not only do you represent the type of American despised by conservatives but people like you also make it more difficult for liberals to fight for the rights that you've abused. In addition, I truly doubt (the conservative) would appreciate your "thumbs up".
I pity you for your ignorance.
As much as I find your letter amusing, I also find it pathetic. You are a poster child for Republican arguments against social programs and you don't even realize it.
[Edited 12/16/2006 and again 04/3/2016]
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Can't win with these people!
I would like to introduce you to two women in my town of Gooding.
One of them I've already mentioned in my blog, as she is the "compassionate conservative" Christian from my church who sent me that critical e-mail (asking me to pray and to stop hurting everybody with my political propaganda, etc.) after the Candlelight Vigil. I will call her "Bonnie" to protect her identity as she has only attacked me in private.
The other woman is Kathy Rooney. I will tell you HER name because she was willing to have her letter to the editor published in our local weekly. She and I started talking a couple of years ago regarding another local issue and, even though we have different philosophies, we could still have interesting discussions. Until the Candlelight Vigil. After the article came out in the Times-News, she also sent me a very angry e-mail with the usual Republican rant of how I'm unAmerican and dishonoring my brother, etc., and I was never to speak to her again.
Jump forward seven months.
After the news release came out in the Times-News about the start of Gooding Drinking Liberally, "Bonnie" (the Christian) became quite upset and has told others in my church about how angry she is at me. I truly doubt that she is concerned that I have developed a drinking problem or that she is praying for my soul. I guess she only wants me to stop causing her pain by reminding her that not everybody believes the way she does. Not that I've ever initiated any Democratic, liberal, antiBush, pro-peace discussions with her or even on church property... maybe she feels that she must protect the whole town of Gooding from my pagan influence or something.
As a result of her actions at my church and similar misperceptions, I wrote a letter to the editor to both the Leader and the Times-News in an attempt to clarify the situation. However, in order to satisfy "Bonnie's" needs, I upset Kathy.
Here is HER letter to the editor published in the Gooding County Leader:
"Bonnie", please call Kathy and explain to her why you were upset so because she seems to be very confused about it. Or Kathy, will you call "Bonnie" and explain to her why it isn't any big deal? Maybe she'll find it as hysterical as you do. Just leave ME out of your psychotic, control freak mental issues.
If anybody would like to respond to Kathy's letter, send it to Gooding County Leader.
One of them I've already mentioned in my blog, as she is the "compassionate conservative" Christian from my church who sent me that critical e-mail (asking me to pray and to stop hurting everybody with my political propaganda, etc.) after the Candlelight Vigil. I will call her "Bonnie" to protect her identity as she has only attacked me in private.
The other woman is Kathy Rooney. I will tell you HER name because she was willing to have her letter to the editor published in our local weekly. She and I started talking a couple of years ago regarding another local issue and, even though we have different philosophies, we could still have interesting discussions. Until the Candlelight Vigil. After the article came out in the Times-News, she also sent me a very angry e-mail with the usual Republican rant of how I'm unAmerican and dishonoring my brother, etc., and I was never to speak to her again.
Jump forward seven months.
After the news release came out in the Times-News about the start of Gooding Drinking Liberally, "Bonnie" (the Christian) became quite upset and has told others in my church about how angry she is at me. I truly doubt that she is concerned that I have developed a drinking problem or that she is praying for my soul. I guess she only wants me to stop causing her pain by reminding her that not everybody believes the way she does. Not that I've ever initiated any Democratic, liberal, antiBush, pro-peace discussions with her or even on church property... maybe she feels that she must protect the whole town of Gooding from my pagan influence or something.
As a result of her actions at my church and similar misperceptions, I wrote a letter to the editor to both the Leader and the Times-News in an attempt to clarify the situation. However, in order to satisfy "Bonnie's" needs, I upset Kathy.
Here is HER letter to the editor published in the Gooding County Leader:
An Opinion On Drinking Liberally
After reading the letter to the Editor by Diana Pauls in the March 16 paper, I couldn't help wondering if the prose was supposed to be tongue in cheek or serious. My reaction was total hilarity. It seems as if she were trying to reach three different groups of people about something that very few even care about.
When I first heard of "Drinking Liberally", I thought that the play on words was amusing and was somewhat surprised as I didn't think the far left possessed senses of humor. But then Diana had to make it even more amusing by having to explain the obvious to us. It certainly seemed condescending on her part but, to whom was she addressing? First the implications were that the conservative community would take umbrage at "drinking liberally".
That would imply that all conservatives practice "drinking conservatively" which, in my experience, definitely is not the case. I do admit that the whole idea of the "drinking Liberally" group did get some rather loud guffaws but these people that I encountered were not laughing at the message, but at the messengers.
The real conundrum is why Diana had to reassure everyone that she and her group are "good Christians" (making me think that is a prerequisite for joining the group) and had to divorce herself from the mainstream Democrat party. Possibly the party wanted to divorce the group. I'm sure that everyone wishes "Drinking Liberally" well in their networking as Long as not too many doorbells will be ringing in Gooding.
So, life will go on and nobody will care about the "Drinking Liberally" group and the only difference will be that some conservatives may be "drinking liberally" on Friday nights at another bar.
You might even find some people from the educational community there as they will probably feel safe that some "liberal Drinker" isn't lurking outside taking down their license plate numbers. But, that is another story in a very long saga of overly zealous causes.
Kathy Rooney
Gooding
"Bonnie", please call Kathy and explain to her why you were upset so because she seems to be very confused about it. Or Kathy, will you call "Bonnie" and explain to her why it isn't any big deal? Maybe she'll find it as hysterical as you do. Just leave ME out of your psychotic, control freak mental issues.
If anybody would like to respond to Kathy's letter, send it to Gooding County Leader.
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