All-Week Access to Hurricane Ridge Next Winter?
This past winter, visits to Hurricane Ridge were up 12% over the previous 5-year average. The all-week schedule was made possible by a $250,000 commitment from the federal Interior Department and $75,000 which was raised locally.
The Interior Department is willing to contribute the same amount again this year, as part of a two- to three-year trial basis. But will local civic leaders be able to raise the necessary $75,000 again?
The Interior Department is willing to contribute the same amount again this year, as part of a two- to three-year trial basis. But will local civic leaders be able to raise the necessary $75,000 again?
posted by Tom Harper at 6:22 PM
57 Comments:
Ho-hum, how about a real debate; like a poison bio-burner slated soon for air near you?
Oh yes! No where else for miles around has snow in the winter time. This will attract people like nothing else. You bet. Spend what ever it takes, and don't bother with a business plan. This is a sure fire way to solve Port Angeles' problems.
It seems that local people constituted the majority of the winter visitors to the Ridge. Good benefit for them, it seems.
However,I'd prefer that the funding match of $75,000 be raised via individual donations, rather than through any local government contributions.
The Port Angeles Fine Art Center, for example, could expand its winter programs too if it could be given a similar sum by the taxpayers. I don't understand why the City treats PAFAC - accessible without snow tires - as a lesser funding priority than plowing the Ridge Road for 24/7 access.
If the City proves that doing this will increase profit than do it, otherwise, save the people of PA some money and forget about it.
Those that think they will benefit from it should be the ones that pay for it, no reason why the rest of you should have to help.
Wait, that isn't in their business plan because they know the figures don't add up.
"Capitalist said...
If the City proves that doing this will increase profit than do it, otherwise, save the people of PA some money and forget about it.
10:16 AM, June 06, 2011"
3,000 people over 4 months. That is about 750 a month. Not even 200 "visits" a week. And, as another poster pointed out, many were locals who didn't rent hotel rooms, or eat at local eateries any more than they usually do.
This is just another example of the puffed up people like the City Manager, Russ Veenama, the City Council, the Port, etc who go off ranting as if Port Angeles is a gold mine yet undiscovered. Yes, they all get paid to produce results for Port Angeles, but here we are, years later, in continuing decline.
Who else has seen the recent (May 31) letter from the Governor about the former Rayonier site? Remember how reps from the City, the Port, and business community all went to Olympia a few weeks ago to tell the Gov how that private property owner should NOT be able to clean up their own property, and do as they wish with it? Which in this case, is to clean it up, along with 1,300 acres of the harbor as well, and to leave it undeveloped.
Despite all the huff, puff and bother the City, Port and business community generated, the Governor upheld private property rights. Rejected everything the city reps presented to the Gov.
These folks (city, Port, PABA, Chamber, etc) are losers. Look at virtually everything they have promoted or advocated for in the last ? years. Lots of time, money and effort expended, and nothing to show for it except for losses, rejection and embarrassment.
I've driven up there a few times, looked around, like many were doing, and went home, no money was spent, but I was counted, hahahaha
The Interior Department is willing to contribute the same amount again this year,
I wonder why they would do that, I keep hearing that they don't want us in the wilderness areas, and it's not like there is a lot of anything up there to spend money on.
"DETROIT (AP) — General Motors CEO Dan Akerson said Tuesday that he is concerned about the U.S. government's high deficit and what he called a jobless economic recovery.
The government needs a plan to pay down the roughly $14 trillion deficit, Akerson told reporters before the company's annual shareholder meeting in Detroit.
"It doesn't mean we have to cure it overnight, but we have to have a 10-year plan," he said, adding that such a plan would settle the markets.
Akerson said he's concerned about the recovery's lack of jobs. If more jobs are created, more people will buy cars and other durable goods, he said. He also predicts it will take a long time to shed the excesses of loose credit policies that began in the mid-1990s.
During his speech to shareholders, Akerson said the company will sell the Cadillac and Chevrolet brands globally while other brands will be sold regionally. He hopes to start producing Cadillacs outside North America in the next 12 to 18 months."
Saw the article in todays' PDN about the local car dealers saying they can't get enough cars to fill demand because of troubles in Japan. Then I saw this article from the AP.
Yep! That will help. Build more cars outside of the US. That will help with the "jobless recovery".
That will help with the "jobless recovery".
You just have to find what works, there's plenty of folks here still doing just fine.
Here at Billy's Honkytonk Saloon & Whorehouse profits have gone up 60% since we installed slot machines.
The PDN article was a little vague (imagine that!)
Was the 75,000 dollars from “the community “actually public money?
Was the 12% (3000 people) increase directly attributable to the weekday operation? Might this increase for the most part been on the weekend anyway?
The stated goal of this initiative was “increased tourism”. How many of that 3000 were from out of the area?
A few years ago some local guy was trying to get the city to support a bike rally out here. Harley Davidson people tend to like things like ferry boat rides and highways like 101 and 112. Since these folks are about the ride, the distance issues that are a problem for us “out here” is actually a positive. They ride expensive toys, so tend to have disposable income for things like bars, restaurants, and hotels. The advertising for events like this is usually pretty cheap, consisting of fliers posted on bike shop bulletin boards and a contact number as well as a list of hotels. Pretty much a win win win. The city shot the idea down faster than you can say “Welcome to Port Angeles”.
"A few years ago some local guy was trying to get the city to support a bike rally out here."
Hmmm, interesting. I saw a car rally a few weeks ago that was tied to that Mustang car show that was downtown over that weekend. Did that have any positive impacts? There didn't seem to be much for attendance by folks other than those with their cars. Has any kind of valid analysis been done?
Has any kind of valid analysis been done?
Lets over analyze everything for profit instead of just having fun
Centigrade, you make a very good point! Except the Ridge is only open sunrise to sunset. I had to be out before 4:30 one day when the gates are locked.
The PAFAC is an outstanding asset to this community and deserves better support. Recently I spoke with Jake Seniuk about new submission for the Sculpture Garden. He said that an excellent piece had been submitted, but the funding for installation was delayed. The funding was $400.00.
Port Angeles could be a real art center that would draw creative talent and those that appreciate it. There are 2 things standing in the way of a break-through in that respect. First the city seems incapable of understanding what needs to be done to create an attractive atmoshpere for creative people. Second, the necessary studio spaces for creative people are priced at BIG city rates. Until these probelms are addressed Port Angeles will be art attractive in word only.
"Lets over analyze everything for profit instead of just having fun"
Hey, I'm all for just having fun, believe me.
The question seemed to be "Should we the taxpayers fund another $325,000 to keep the road open next winter season?" It seemed to be suggested bike runs would bring money to Port Angeles. I'm guessing these car and bike runs have been held in other communities, before, and someone might have figured out what kind of revenue they actually generate.
How does all that compare to the $325,000 spent to get 3,000 more visits (if it really DID generate that many new visits, even).
Just curious.
BBC stfu
"First the city seems incapable of understanding what needs to be done to create an attractive atmoshpere for creative people."
Randall, could you develope this idea a bit more for the rest of us?
So, the city council votes to give Pen Ply $500,000, even while acknowledging it has major debt, is not profitable, and might close down within 3 or 4 months?!?
AND, one of the commentors on the PDN site states 50 employees were laid off at Pen Ply yesterday morning, hours before the council meeting, but not mentioned by the PDN.
This is just pathetic.
And so, what should be done with Pen Ply? Just let it die as several commenters suggest? Maybe so, but only if you also object to the auto bailout, the banking bailout(s), the oil subsidies, and every other govt stimulus attempt back to the Civilian Conservation Corps. Those "small govt" obsessed folks are certainly partially correct, as are the "big govt" obsessed folks. But people who say govt jobs don't do anything positive for the economy are just plain ingnorant of the facts! In Clallam County (as of 2009 data) more than 40% of all jobs are direct, govt jobs. If not for the economics of the purchsing power of all those families who get their income from govt jobs, how do you think any of the private sector businesses would survive?
"So, the city council votes to give Pen Ply $500,000, even while acknowledging it has major debt, is not profitable, and might close down within 3 or 4 months?!?"
How is this responsible, in these budget cutting times? It is one thing to support a business that is even close to being viable, but THIS?
So, the city council votes to give Pen Ply $500,000, even while acknowledging it has major debt, is not profitable, and might close down within 3 or 4 months?!?
I'll assume that the city council got the taxpayers permission to spend their money that way.
Hahahahah
The city council doesn't have to get the citizens permission on how to spend their money cuz the council is smart and the citizens are stupid.
Hehehehe
"And so, what should be done with Pen Ply? Just let it die as several commenters suggest? Maybe so, but only if you also object to the auto bailout, the banking bailout(s), the oil subsidies, and every other govt stimulus attempt back to the Civilian Conservation Corps."
Hunh? You don't think that is a pretty huge leap in logic, there? You equate Pen Ply to the CCC? You equate subsidies to hugely profitable oil companies to the never profitable Pen Ply?
Pen Ply only got off the ground because of loans and grants, in the first place, and has been in trouble from the git-go. How is this the same as the Civilian Conservation Corps?
How can you possibly support ANY business or loan to a group with NO business plan, that is already in significant debt, and whose own backers offer little hope it will survive another 3 or 4 months??
I agree that Port Angeles and Clallam rely heavily on taxpayer monies to function, but your analogy and conclusions just don't fly.
Yes Cy, I can develop this a little more for you.
Port Angeles seems focused on 2 things. One is getting more retail venues, and the other is getting more tourists to shop in those venues.
Instead I suggest there needs to be a focus on "light industry" that actually produces goods that are of value and adds to the GNP of the city, State and the Nation.
Creating an artist friendly place draws craftsmen, artisans, and creative thinkers. These people then make things and start businesses and hire more people.
Instead of trying for the big grand-slam business deals, if the city went for a bunch of singles they might win more.
Just a simple craftsman's opinion...thanks for asking!
I agree with Anon 9:56 a.m., all of these programs (including the ccc) were federal govt monies being spent (wisely or not) to stimulate the economy. The Federal pass through grant being given to Pen Ply grant was to be used to make a difference in a small, rural community, to help stimulate its economy. Wise or not, it might make the difference.
Hi again Cy, after posting last night I thought I should add at least one practical suggestion. My search for a work space here lead me to many storefronts with small entry doors, marginal power and parking, and neighboring tenants who would not be happy with noise from power tools. None of these places really fit my needs as a studio.
In many cities now old warehouses and indutrial building are being converted to studios. They are broken up into smaller spaces and rented for reasonable prices. One potential building for such a use here in P.A. is the old NAPA building just off 1st. at Peabody I think. This empty building could easily be turned into 6 or 8 studios with a minimal investment. It has parking, location, and is just right for arts, crafts, and various "light industrial" uses. Once this project was done and filled with working people, many other spaces like the empty motel on 1st could be done in the same way. Imagine that place converted to live in/work studios. All it takes is a small change in attitude from the local government to make this happen.
New arts workers need to buy things. Once they are here the retailers will see a market. The city will not need to hunt for them, they will come! Imagine a Dick Blick here.
Oh, and Cy, if you are the real Cy...I admire your work. If you are not the real Cy...why are you using his name?
Randall C. Page said...
"I thought I should add at least one practical suggestion.."
I have a Fine Arts background, and have been self employed most of my life. One thing I've learned over the years is that what ever I produce, I need to have a viable market for it.
As a creative, I am affected by my surroundings. Port Angeles is so negative and depressed, I have not done any real creative work here.
Do you think it is only about building studio space? Do market and other factors count, too?
Anonymous 10:10, Yes market is very important. Without web based marketing what I have suggested would not be practical.
"Without web based marketing what I have suggested would not be practical."
Or, put another way, there is no viable, sustainable local market in Port Angeles. Port Angeles' viability as an "Arts Friendly Community" is reliant on sales to people outside of Port Angeles, marketed via the web.
Like anywhere in the world.
So, why choose Port Angeles?
Anon 11:29 The reason to choose P.A is simple. Step out the door and take a deep breath. The air is great! The food here is excellent. The access to a wide variety of outdoor activities is outstanding. And most of all, the big city problems don't exsist here. Then too, no long commutes and brain numbing freeway congestion. This is a great place for the smart, creative, 21st century enterpreneurs. Just make it busiess friendly to them and see what happens.
Mr Page - The air here is not as clean as you think, especially if you live in the city downwind of Nippon & Pen Ply. And, the pollution coming from the commercial shipping traffic going by in the Strait and stopping in our harbor emits literally tons of pollutants into the air from the dirty cheap diesel fuel they burn. Looking back from the San Juan Islands toward Port Angeles one can see this horrible brown trail of dirty air and haze obscuring the view of the mountains.
"This is a great place for the smart, creative, 21st century enterpreneurs."
Well, if you like serious challenges trying to do anything, are willing to wait days for materials, parts, etc to be shipped in, and enjoy having to pay more for limited choices.. for starters. The beauty of the Nippon mill spewing fumes into the air, windows rattling from log trucks rolling through town. A depressed local economy.
Food choices? Are you kidding? The options are SO limited. I travel quite a bit, and by comparison, Port Angeles is a backwater of culture, politics and commerce.
There are so many places that actually DO have the wonderful qualities you seem to think Port Angeles has. And, anybody smart and creative enough to be "21st century enterpreneurs" are also smart enough to make the smart choices NOT to limit themselves by trying to locate their businesses in Port Angeles. Obviously the case, as storefronts empty by the day!
Randall, get out there and see what really does exist.
Hey, anon 8:52 AM, June 11, 2011, I have a question for you.
While I agree with much of what you say about the current state of Port Angeles, I also have to say that I see the amazing natural setting and great potential here as big, big motivators. While I acknowledge the challenges, I'm willing to stay here and work towards driving the deadenders out, and the quality of life up.
So my question is this: If the quality of life here is SO bad, why are you still here? And, since you are still here, are you willing to suck it up and help those who are trying to advance this place? (Which is two questions, actually...) In other words, either stop whining and find someplace better suited to you, or get involved and get this place going.
Port Angeles IS changing for the better. The more people involved pushing for it means the quicker these changes will happen. Will it ever be a Utopian Paradise? Probably not. But there's no reason a place as special as this has to remain a cultural and economic backwater.
You anonymous Nay-Sayers are a HOOT!...lol
"So my question is this: If the quality of life here is SO bad, why are you still here? And, since you are still here, are you willing to suck it up and help those who are trying to advance this place?"
I know this is going to sound insulting, and I really don't want to offend anyone, but, WOW! You really make so many less than intelligent assumptions.
How do you know that I have not moved away from Port Angeles?
How do you know that I have not spent many years already, trying to "advance this place", and based upon my experience with this town, I make my comments?
You say you are willing to stay, and work for change. Great! I wish you the best. I will also advise you to look back over the last 10 years or more, and see what "change" really has happened in recent months. Other than there being so many empty storefronts, more than 5 years ago.
I wish you and Randall all the best. The media speaks of the nations' economy being on "life support". Towns across North America are trying desperately to re-invent themselves, to attract any viable business to them, in order to survive. The national debt, being passed onto the States, is resulting in drastic cuts to spending and programs, with many years of cuts ahead.
But you and Randall see things as all rosey, full of optimism and hope. That is wonderful! I'm happy for you.
Good luck with that.
Randall C. Page said...
You anonymous Nay-Sayers are a HOOT!...lol
Yes! If only the anonymous Nay-Sayers on this blog would get positive, the country, state and town would all turn around and be prosperous.
Come on you Nay-Sayers, turn your negative words to glowing words of praise for those that lead our town! It is only the Liberal Media that tries to deceive those that do not beleive.
Ignore those bills and debt collection calls, for they too are only lost souls who only can see the negative. Answer their demands for repayment with joyful refrain: "Be Gone, you Nay-Sayers. Be Gone!".
Call your elected representatives, and tell them you are tired of the negative news you hear from Capital Hill. Tell them: "I don't want to hear from Nay-Sayers any longer." With enough calls to our elected officials, they will hear our demands, and turn their focus to the positive realities the Liberal Media is now ignoring.
Join us now. We can change our world. Yes, we can.
Anon's 10:41 and 11:14...I never said things were "rosy"...I said there is work to be done and changes to be made!
Anonymous sarcasm will not make things better. If you have found yourselves unable or unwilling to make the effort to change, that is your problem. If you have gotten into debt and are unable to find a way out you have my sympathy.
But, let me say again what I have posted here in the past. Where would this country be if Washington and Jefferson and Franklin had signed..."Anonymous"?
"I know this is going to sound insulting, and I really don't want to offend anyone, but, WOW! You really make so many less than intelligent assumptions.
How do you know that I have not moved away from Port Angeles?"
You're right - I do make assumptions. I assume someone taking the time to post here about Port Angeles issues is someone who probably lives in Port Angeles. (Especially when that someone uses language that leads us to believe they live here.) Because otherwise, why would you care? Why would you take the time? I mean, the only non-resident that I can think of who can't seem to stay out of local issues is...Omigod! LARRY WILLIAMS!!!
"Where would this country be if Washington and Jefferson and Franklin had signed..."Anonymous"?"
Well, this is equally "less than intelligent", and more than a bit insulting to all of those who volunteer for causes across the country, through the ages.
This seems to say that the only efforts for "change" that count or have any value are those from people who have recognized names, not the literally countless numbers of "anonymous" that actually make things happen.
I've volunteered for my communities my entire life, and was raised with the belief we each have a responsibility to contribute to society. After a few decades, I have a vantage point concerning who of a community DOES contribute, and why.
I am proud of the changes I have helped create in the town you now live in. But, with the current state of things, I'm not willing to waste my time with this community. I'm putting my hours of volunteer efforts elswhere.
Hey Port Angeles looks good compared to Los Angeles at least and even compared with the National Averages on lots of levels. Seriously, you can go compare it with lots of other cities big and small on Sperling's Best Places http://www.bestplaces.net/
According to them:
Port Angeles is 31% cheaper than Los Angeles.
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Housing is 55% cheaper in Port Angeles.
So...
A salary of $50,000 in Los Angeles, California could decrease to $34,730 in Port Angeles, Washington (and maintain the same standard of living)
On Air Quality... 100 = best... Port Angeles has a 99 rating... Los Angeles has only a 1 (how scary is that?), and the US Average is 82.8
Here are EPA charts comparing the air quality for outdoor activities throughout the year.
http://www.epa.gov/cgi-bin/broker?condition=active&citycounty=county&geocode=53009+06037&_debug=2&_service=aircomp&_program=dataprog.wcj_bymonthhealth.sas&submit=Compare+My+Air
Notice that Clallam County has no bad days, Los Angeles has a lot.
There is also a rating called the Comfort Index (not too hot, not too cold and not too dry or humid,etc.) Port Angeles has a 91 out of 100... Los Angeles is 46 and the US Average is 44
Being fairly near the water cuts down on airborn allergens too.
I don't eat out much, but I do like Rick's Place and Dynasty. The produce and the meats in the regular markets seem pretty good to me, and the various growers at the Farmer's Market, Nash's, Sunny Farms, etc are even better. I hope the new produce stand where Saars was, and the soon to be bigger Country Aire stick around too.
I guess what I am trying to say is... things are tough all over right now, but a whole lot of places have it tougher than the Olympic Peninsula. We have a good deal here, all things considered, and we are insulated from a fair amount of the weather extremes that the rest of the country has to worry about. And then there is the fact that it is incredibly beautiful here... how many other places have snow on the mountains in July, eagles flying over residential neighborhoods, orcas in the water, and deer along the roads? Don't those add something to the quality of life? So if you were a creative person fleeing a smoggy city and sick of a stressful daily commute, I think Port Angeles could look pretty darn good as a home base.
Well, Thanks for the info Positive Attitude! I wish I would have thought of adding those statistics to the mix here. I did read not long ago that many of the creatives from L.A. are moving to better places. Let's hope they get the idea to come here.
As for you Anon 10:03, I am really baffled by your mis-interpretations of my posts and your negativity when it comes to this little city. You seem to want to take the conversation down to the level of personal insults. In the blog-o-sphere those who do that are called "Trolls".
I refuse to label you as such. If you do volunteer work that is wonderful. But, why do you feel the need to come on this blog and make negative comments that are out of context with the subject at hand?
"But, why do you feel the need to come on this blog and make negative comments that are out of context with the subject at hand?"
What are you talking about?
You stated that "Port Angeles could be a real art center that would draw creative talent and those that appreciate it.", as an alternate conversation topic to the funding of Hurricane Ridge access for next year, which was supposed to bring in more tourism/money to Port Angeles.
I pointed out things many others before me have; Port Angeles is a remote location, and has very significant limitations. You essentially agreed with this by saying "Yes market is very important. Without web based marketing what I have suggested would not be practical."
You then went on to espouse the wonderful qualities you see here, including fresh air, great food and no major traffic problems, to which I countered by suggestion you should travel around and see all the wonderful communities that exist that DO offer the wonderful qualities you think Port Angeles has.
Your response? "You anonymous Nay-Sayers are a HOOT!...lol"
And then launch into this post which I just don't understand: "You seem to want to take the conversation down to the level of personal insults. In the blog-o-sphere those who do that are called "Trolls". And, ".. why do you feel the need to come on this blog and make negative comments that are out of context with the subject at hand?"
How can you construe that pointing out the limitations Port Angeles has, issues studied by professionals (remember the "due diligence" studies done recently for HarborWorks?), is out of context?
Sure, I can see how some one might see your talking about "Trolls" is out of context.
I can see how trying to compare Los Angeles to Port Angeles could be seen as "out of context". You can't seriously think THAT was a valid comparison? That "creatives" have two choices: Port Angeles, or Los Angeles. What about Portland? What about Ashland? What about the numerous small coastal communities along the US West coast? Like San Louis Obispo? (If you're going to use LA!)
Success based upon markets that do not exist in Port Angeles? Reliant on web marketing? Like, no one else is trying to do that?
Why bother. You have your rosey glasses on. You must have the finances to ignore what most in Port Angeles live with. The depressed economy.
Good for you.
"I assume someone taking the time to post here about Port Angeles issues is someone who probably lives in Port Angeles."
Well, you would be wrong in making that assumption. Maybe you read the PDN (I used to, but stopped because it is such a mouthpiece for the city, and misrepresents what is actually going on), and have seen the letters from all over the country. People that have lived in Port Angeles for years, and moved away, and visitors. Ring a bell?
And guess what? They are all NOT Larry Williams.
"Because otherwise, why would you care? Why would you take the time?" Yeah, there is that funny thing that you seem to not recognize: "care".
You and the rest of Port Angeles/Clallam County/Washington State residents are living better lives as a result of my efforts (assuming you are a Port Angeles/CC/WS resident). You benefit from my years of work. So what. Who stepped forward to take time from their lives to work for their community, for this next election cycle? You?
Put the time in I have, and I'll pay more attention to your comments.
"Put the time in I have, and I'll pay more attention to your comments."
First: You make the assumption that I care if you pay attention to my comments. Second: I have put in MY time as well, and continue to do so. So please don't assume I haven't.
Third: You seem to assume we all A)believe how much you've done, and acknowledge how grateful we should all be to you, and B) that even if we did believe all you say about what you did in the past, that we'd still give a shit about what you have to say.
Because when it comes right down to it, you're just as anonymous as the rest of us, and therefore, about as credible as any given dream. So unless you start posting under your real name, get off your high horse. Because, even though I well know you're NOT Larry Williams, your arrogance and lack of humor just makes you seem like Larry Williams.
"You seem to assume we all A)believe how much you've done, and acknowledge how grateful we should all be to you, and B) that even if we did believe all you say about what you did in the past, that we'd still give a shit about what you have to say."
Oh, no. I don't make any such assumptions. I have no illusions. Anyone can see what is going on in Port Angeles these days. No body gives a shit about much of anything.
My point to begin with.
Thanks!
OK, it is a georgeous day here in PARDISE Port Angeles. I have to enjoy it. However, I will be back to refute the neagativity of the Anonimii (plural for negative posters).
In the mean time, since I am not an Anonymous poster, take the time to google my name and check my online galleries. There you will see photographic proof that I indeed have been "out there". In fact I have been all over the US.
Ooops, 1 silly argument down. The rest will follow later. Have a great day!
To Anonymous, whoever you may be... I get confused... I can't tell when I am addressing one person or more than one. I saw that you objected to my comparing Los Angeles to Port Angeles... Well, I used it as an example because I came here from Southern California.You suggested Portland, OR as an alternative... Ok... I am going to do the comparison for you via the info on Sperling's. http://www.bestplaces.net/col/?salary=50000&city1=55355365&city2=54159000
I don't know about you, but paying 49% more for housing in Portland when the overall job market is so unstable doesn't seem a low risk proposition to me. If you moved to Portland and then lost your job, could you hold on until you found a new one better than you could in Port Angeles?
The crime rates are higher in Portland too. http://www.bestplaces.net/city/default.aspx?cat=CRIME&city=Port_Angeles_WA&ccity=Portland_OR&p=5355365&op=4159000 and Port Angeles's cleaner air is 99/100 compared to a much less impressive 68.2 for Portland.
I will grant you that San Luis Obispo County is pretty, but only 63.4 out of 100 on the air quality ... and the cost of housing there? A whopping 169% more expensive!!! http://www.bestplaces.net/col/?salary=50000&city1=55355365&city2=50668154
Each person has their own criteria for what makes a good place for them to live... For me, lower cost of housing, good food at the markets, healthier air, access to outdoor activities, not shoveling tons of snow in winter or sweating in 100°F heat in summer, and not sitting in traffic jams were big priorities. I really like being able to go up to Hurricane Ridge and see snow, and then go back and beachcomb in the same day... I'm not sure about the year-round access to Hurricane Ridge and how the cost/benefit ratio will play out... I guess I wonder how many people outside this area know that you can go skiing here at all, regardless of when it is open? Maybe publicity is the main obstacle, not how many days the road is open.
Alright, I have a few minutes now after chores and harvesting some garden goodies. Wow stuff really grows well here in PARADISE!
So let's dispose of one more of the contentions of the Anonimii Negati:
"You essentially agreed with this by saying "Yes market is very important. Without web based marketing what I have suggested would not be practical."
NO, I do not agree with you! Web based marketing is the way we roll these days Negati! Artists don't live in big cities if they are smart. This is how it has always been. If you were more sophisticated you would know this.
However, take my specific suggestion about turning empty buildings here into arts and crafts studios. Once they are etablished, they start with web based marketing, and then soon are able to collaborate and rent gallery space in the vacant downtown. Then, P.A. starts to get a rep for creativity and classes are offered by the same people. Soon after that, seminars and conventions follow. Do you find this unrealistic Negati? I have seen this very progression happen in a 10 year span in N.E. Mpls.
"I'll be back"...later to dispose of more of Negati's silly contentions..Thank you!
OK, another chore done and time again to dispose of another Anonimii Negati. Which ever one you are, you said...
"Anyone can see what is going on in Port Angeles these days. No body gives a shit about much of anything."
WRONG! I was fortunate enough this weekend to help a little with the PAFAC's annual sale at the Vern Burton center. My girlfriend and I moved 5 van loads of items from the warehouse collection point to the center. I was impressed with the volunteers who turned out and helped. They ranged in age from high schoolers to senior citizens. The enthusiasm and good will that I saw was really impressive. This kind of grass roots support for the local arts community should be treasured!
Special credit goes from me to the High School Coaches and teams that pitched in. They were a credit to the community!
Time for disposal of another Anonimii Negati...in this case the one my girlfriend calls "Mr. Clueless"!
I said..."Where would this country be if Washington and Jefferson and Franklin had signed..."Anonymous"?"
You said...
"Well, this is equally "less than intelligent", and more than a bit insulting to all of those who volunteer for causes across the country, through the ages."
Clearly you missed the point. You post negative comments from behind the veil of anonimity. Your claims of volunteer work cannot be verified in any way. Therefore they are irrelevant.
The Founding Fathers of this country stood up and identified themselves in word and deed. You do not stand for anything.
Now, what I want to know is; What is the point of your posts? Do you want everyone to just pack up and leave this town? Do you want everyone to surrender to failure as you must have? What exactly is it that you want to achieve with the negative comments you post?
Thank you!
Randall C Page sez: "In the mean time, since I am not an Anonymous poster, take the time to google my name and check my online galleries. There you will see photographic proof that I indeed have been "out there"."
I already have, months ago, when you went through this here, before.
http://portangelesonline.blogspot.com/2011/02/fifty-three-downtown-merchants-sign.html
" Anonymous said...
"Randall C. page" you're so full of it yourself with your "profile not available"
Piss off?
7:41 PM, February 14, 2011 "
Anything change, Randall?
As a Fine Arts Major, I do have training. I won't venture my opinions of your photography.
But beyond this silliness of personal "comments", I will try to draw the conversation back to what I think really matters: The Community.
Randall, you may have traveled "out there", but why do you not respond to the assessment of Port Angeles' economic viability by the professions, as I referenced previously? (Actually, you DID reply by saying what you proposed was NOT viable, unless people outside of Port Angeles supported the arts businesses you think are so perfect for here.)
Dodging the questions doesn't help Port Angeles. Trying to divert the conversations to personal attacks does not help Port Angeles.
When the Board of Directors of HarborWorks spent hundreds of thousands of taxpayers' money on "due diligence" studies on the economic viability of Port Angeles, those professionals could not find any of the nations' business sectors interested in coming to Port Angeles, and investing in it.
What do you offer to show those professional studies are wrong?
"Positive Attitude said...
To Anonymous, whoever you may be... I get confused... I can't tell when I am addressing one person or more than one"
Wow! You think you can convince me on how wonderful Port Angeles is, when you can't even figure out how to respond to posts on a blog??
Let me help you with this problem you say you have. If you look at the bottom of each post, it puts a time/date stamp for each comment submitted. If you wish to reference that specific post, you merely cut-n-paste that time/date stamp so everyone reading knows what you are replying to. Easy?
"Each person has their own criteria for what makes a good place for them to live... "
Absolutely. But along with that, these days, are a couple other factors your statistics don't show. People may WANT to move, but cannot because they cannot sell their homes in this economy. You think finding a job in Port Angeles is as easy as moving here, and simply taking the job you have the background for and want?
I can do stats all day long, to make any point I want, but that doesn't translate into real life in Port Angeles.
The "real life" stat is driving through Port Angelers, and seeing more empty storefronts than one month ago, and 6 months ago. Those represent people no longer with jobs or incomes.
Look at the real estate stats, and see that property values continue to fall.
People have fewer jobs here, and their homes are losing value, despite what they owe on their mortgages. They have other worries, besides skiing up on Hurricane Ridge.
Maybe you are immune to these concerns. Seems like it. Good for you.
Randall C Page Sez: "Your claims of volunteer work cannot be verified in any way. Therefore they are irrelevant."
I'll state it again. Your comments are "less than intelligent",(I'm attempting to be polite, others would use differnent words!) and are outright insulting to the countless unidentifiable people in Port Angeles, Clallam County, Washington State, the Country and the countries throughout the world who have taken time out of their lives to volunteer for the betterment of humanity.
What do you know of me, to be so smug and secure in your assessment of me?
To sit there and say so arrogantly that anything/all I have done over my lifetime is "irrelevant", simply because you are unaware, is insulting. And illustrates your limitations.
Posters on this very blog responded to your similar statements, earlier this year:
"Anonymous said...
"Randall C. page" you're so full of it yourself with your "profile not available"
Piss off?
7:41 PM, February 14, 2011"
Back again, to try to make the same points that failed before?
You say: "So let's dispose of one more of the contentions of the Anonimii Negati:
"You essentially agreed with this by saying "Yes market is very important. Without web based marketing what I have suggested would not be practical."
"NO, I do not agree with you! Web based marketing is the way we roll these days Negati! Artists don't live in big cities if they are smart. This is how it has always been. If you were more sophisticated you would know this."
Randall, I was quoting you, directly! How can you respond to a direct quote of your own words by saying "NO, I do not agree with you!" Please, get your views straight before you start posting. What am I to believe if you are disagreeing with your own statements?
"If you were more sophisticated you would know this." LOL! Oh, Randall. If only you knew how "less than intelligent" this comment from youi is. My products have been sourced by the US White House, for the US President. Yours?
And, in what fantasy world do you live in, to think that the aspiring "creatives" do not move from little towns around the world, to LA to be "discovered"? It is a literal cliche! "Small town actor moves to LA , taking jobs as barmaid or bar tender as they hope to be "discovered". For how many decades has this been the case? They move to LA. Not Port Angeles.
Fashion biz? They move to NY. Not Port Angeles.
Painters do not move to Paris, NY or LA. They move to Port Angeles for their big break, right/?
Musicians do not move to LA, New Orleans, NY, or ?.. they move to Port Angeles to be discovered, of course!
With all the crafts folks that come to Port Angeles for the Juan de Fuca festivals each year, the city gets plenty of exposure. Who moves here?
The city keeps emptying out.
You just keep at it. Obviously you know things no one else is seeing.
"The city keeps emptying out."
11:01 PM, June 13, 2011
This is only half true, in my opinion. Yes, the population in Port Angeles has been very stable (or stagnant) for the past couple of decades. However, it certainly seems to me that this flatline encompasses a lot of change. I haven't even been here for seven years yet, and I know lots and lots of people who have been here less than that.
In other words, I do think there is a steady influx of new people into Port Angeles - in numbers that have been roughly equal to the number of people moving away. And I think we're starting to see the results of this change, this new blood.
There are new businesses, with new (for Port Angeles) focuses. Downtown has the arcade, the game store, and the anime store - businesses that appeal to a younger market. (And the young owner of the anime store is running for City Council.) Places like the Blackbird and Good To Go are doing well with organic/local/vegetarian foods, and doing so in out of the way locations. We have one of the only year-round Farmer's Markets in the state. The arts scene is growing larger and stronger. The political crowd is changing, too.
And for the record, I do know some very talented young artists who have chosen to move here, or stay here, because of the quality of life, the growing vitality of the arts scene, and the fact that we have some great (mostly retired) teachers/mentors here for young artists.
All of which is a long-winded way of saying that I think Randall is closer to the truth than not. Yes, there are plenty of things very FUCKED UP here. As there are pretty much anywhere. But we have tremendous potential here. Historically that potential has been squandered. I like to think we won't allow that to happen anymore.
To Anonymous 10:19 PM, June 13, 2011
Hey, I'm very sorry that you apparently had things happen that made you bitter about Port Angeles... For some people, though, Port Angeles is an improvement over where they came from. Overpriced housing and even worse mortgages in California make a modest house in Port Angeles look very nice to someone with a limited income... so please be polite and respect that. It is a tough job market all over the country, and storefronts are closing in downtowns all over the country, not just here. Lots of people take pay cuts or move, just to stay employed. I'm not trying to convince you that Port Angeles is wonderful... I'm trying to say that it is has things to offer that may fit someone else's needs, not yours. I really hope that you do find a place where you are healthy and happy. I finally found what I needed right here in Port Angeles... and it is clear from what you have said that your path will lead you somewhere else.
P.S. I was not confused about how to reply to a posting... I understand the time stamp... But that only helps with one posting at a time, so if several people post as "Anonymous" it makes it difficult to tell right away if two postings are written by the same "Anonymous" or two different people. Any name, even like the pseudonym I'm using, helps keep the context of the thread more clear. Anyway, I wish you well, and may the road ahead of you be smoother than the one you have been travelling.
And in conclusion:
Port Angeles has much to offer to individuals and a wide range of enterprizes. The location and environment, together with the facts that it is an international seaport and has an excellent airport connect it to the world with ease. The present day internet technology allows even small businesses to have a global presence.
With a few small changes in attitude and some hard work, this community could transform itself into a model city for the 21st century and beyond.
Thank you!
"With a few small changes in attitude and some hard work, this community could transform itself into a model city for the 21st century and beyond.
Thank you!"
What a new concept! You should go to the City Council, Chamber of Commerce and business associations, and tell them! Obviously nobody has thought of this before!
"Hey, I'm very sorry that you apparently had things happen that made you bitter about Port Angeles..."
You just don't seem to be able to get it. It isn't about me (although I can be insulted by some comments, so what, I'm a big girl now).
I referenced the "due diligence" studies done by professions in the field, commissioned by HarborWorks to look at the economic viability of the former mill site. Their conclusion? No interest by retail, commercial or industrial business. Why? Too remote.
You just ignore this, and instead go on about casual observations and your beliefs that a positive attitude will change Port Angeles.
Whereas a positive attitude is definately a good thing, it does not make Port Angeles any less remote.
The City has been here for 150 years. It hasn't changed very much. Lots of people have come with various visions and ideas. And left.
I don't care what you do, it's your life. My issues are just about trying to be realistic, and face the reality of the situation, not what you want it to be.
Yeah, I may wish my car was pollution free, but it isn't.
Good luck with your positive attitude.
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