Cones on the Road

     Be careful of these guys on the road to Tassajara Center in Los Padres Nat. Forest: these monster cones could take out a tire.

Firewood Notice: Again

       Well, it's easy to note the time of year: watch the small trucks throughout the West Shore delivering split logs for the stove/fireplace.
     Let's review:
     How is firewood sold? In a cord.  What is a cord of wood?   It is a measurement of the dimensions.  And what are they?  4' X 4' X 8'= 128 CUBIC FEET.   Seems simple enough, but wait: it's more complicated.   The words "tightly packed" come into play.  The cut and split pieces are not stacked cross-wised, but parallel, leaving very small spaces in between.
    Most dealers/sellers cut pieces in 16" lengths, or try to do that.  The results vary considerably.  Hence there is a necessity to MEASURE that cord upon delivery.   That requires stacking, which most customers forego, and most sellers take advantage of that fact.
     Tip:
     If a seller pulls up with his truck and the wood is in a pile in the bed, nobody knows for certain how much is actually on board-until it is restacked.   A random test of pieces taken early is a tip off: are the pieces on average 16" each or less?
     With this knowledge, a buyer/homeowner can prevent the rip off(s) which are rampant around the Tahoe basin.   Most brokers in the Central Valley sell their wood to dealers who deliver from Truckee or Placerville or Auburn.  Yes, they are entitled to a profit, but a legitimate profit only.
    Pay attention; get what you pay for. 

Game 5 Goes to CUBS

     Facing elimination is always a situation that fosters focus among athletes and coaches.  Last night's Game 5 was no exception.  The Cubs were/are up against it: win or go home a loser.  The Indians were ready to pounce and end their quest of their first Series win in 71 years.  But the Cubbies would have none of it.  The scrappy Chicagoans held on in the late innings as Mr. Chapman, the fireballing reliever shut down the Cleveland team with consistent 100 mph fastballs.  Mr. Chapman inherited a situation with men on base but prevented any further scoring.
     Now, a travel day as the teams return to Cleveland where the Cubs must win 2 in a row.  If they win the next game and even the series, a slight edge is given to the home team Indians.   A Game 7 is always worth the ticket price.
    Take tonight off; read a book; get ready for baseball tomorrow.

Viktor Bout: An Unhappy Arms Merchant

      Convicted gun smuggler and arms dealer, Viktor Bout, has filed a second appeal of his conviction related to his arms dealing and international gun running.   He doesn't like the prospect of another 23  years in a US Federal prison in Illinois.   His lawyers contend that he was selling only logistics components, not arms.
     The former Russyan air force officer thought he was smarter than everybody else, like Trump/Putin, and could avoid the reach of the FBI by staying away from American soil.  Wrong.  Poor Viktor, he thought he could conduct his nefarious deals abroad and exist beyond the reach of the US Dept. of Justice.   He was set up in Thailand by play actors.  He thought he was negotiating with FARC reps from the Colombian rebel group.  These folks were actually disguised imposters, setting a well-timed trap.   He was arrested by US representatives, and then spent 2 years in a Thai jail fighting extradition.  He lost, and was extradited.  He stood trial with his expert legal defense team, and was convicted by a jury.  Sentence: 25 years, but not hard labor ala Gulag-style in Siberia.   Maybe he would prefer a Gulag residence; maybe not.   Illinois is probably hot and humid in summer, but not as cold as Siberia.
       What are his chances of a retrial?  Slim and none.  Get used to prison food, Viktor.

Game 4: World Series

    Well, the team with the most wins in the major leagues is about done.  That is, the Chicago Cubs are up against the wall, down 3-1 against the Cleveland Indians.  Scoring first, the Cubs were facing somebody they had already seen-Corey Kluber.  He didn't appear to be as sharp after 3 days of rest.  But he was sharp enough, as the Indians answered in the bottom of the first with a solo shot to tie it up.
    Then, 2 more runs to make it 3-1.  Then another to make it 4-1.  And then-the 'Bomb'- a 3-run shot that made it 7-1.   Hmmmmm.   Can this be changed?   Apparently, the Cubs cannot generate an offense against the Indians' pitching.
    The Cubs added a solo run late 7-2, but did not threaten further.  Chicago must now win the next 3, 2 of which will be played in Cleveland.  Good luck.

Italians Nervous After Another Apennine Quake

      Another earthquake has shaken the Italian peninsula today.   The 7.1 scale terramoto was centered in the town of Norcia, in the south central region north of Rome, about 40 miles SE of Perugia.  Initial reports do not include any deaths resulting from the shaker.   This is the 3rd significant seismic event in the past 2 months.   Locals are understandably nervous and anxious about the situation.   Will there be more is the question on their minds.
      Italy is a known location of continuous seismic activity do to its position astride tectonic plate fault lines.  For centuries, the landscape has been continuously altered as the African Plate moves north and is subducted under the European Plate.
      In 1908, another significant quake occurred in the Strait of Messina separating Sicily from the mainland.  As many as 200,000 people died.   The death toll could have been higher, but international relief aided the affected area providing medical treatment, food, and shelter to the local citizenry.
    Loose building codes also were a contributing factor to the destructive results.
    In Norcia, not far from L'Aquila, destruction is severe with many ancient churches and monasteries destroyed.

World Series: Game 3

      Cubs didn't do it.  They failed to provide even 1 run for their pitching staff and their team.   The Indians got their 1 run the old fashioned way: they hit the ball where the defense wasn't.  Several times, the Cubs threatened, but to no avail.  For more than 13 times, they left runners stranded on base without scoring.   Not good.
     The Series will go at least another 2 more games, possibly ending in Chicago before a return trip to Cleveland.   We'll be watching.   The pitching has been superb, underscoring the dictum that good pitching defeats good hitting.
     Joe Madden will try his magic to get the bats to come alive in Game 4 tonight.

Proposition 61: Drug Pricing Standards

       Hmmmm.  So you are not happy with the price of your medical prescriptions.  You are not alone.  The media has reported cases of obvious price gouging by big pharma companies.   Congress held hearings, asking for explanations.  Enter information that the VA medical system "negotiates" with drug companies and pays reduced prices for the same meds that many of us use.  Do we know what the VA pays?  No.   But, some folks think California should be able to "negotiate" like the VA for lower prices, saving state taxpayers a bundle along the way.  Sounds reasonable.  So, we have Prop 61-an initiative ballot prop. to do just that: negotiate with those monolithic corporate entities who own the patents to many meds thereby restricting access unless a stiff fee is paid by an insurer or the individual in need.
       As a result of this choice for voters on the ballot, big pharma is pouring over $100 millions into a campaign to defeat the measure, even threatening veterans with future higher prices for meds.   This immoral approach and unethical attitude only underscores the position of big pharma: profits at any price without regard for cost.   Most folks know that drug patents exist for a fixed period, then generics are allowed to compete.  Prices generally fall thereafter.  Big pharma like to push the envelop and squeeze as much as possible during the closed patent period.  Normal monopolistic behavior.
      So, in your selection of yes and no on Nov. 8th, consider the funding of the opposition: out of state millions to defeat an in state proposal to help reduce the cost of medical care and treatment for Californians: you and me.
Vote Yes

EARTHQUAKE IN ITALY-AGAIN

     The Apennines were the location of another quake in central Italy.  The region borders the east coast or Aegean Sea.   The Marches province is north of Rome, about 100 miles.  Two small villages were severely damaged.  Prime Minister Matteo Renzi pledged 30 Million Euros to aid those affected who will need housing during the rebuilding phase.
     This quake follows another quake affecting the region only 2 months ago.   The area is a known epicenter of seismic activity.

Proposition 64 on Stateballot

     California is not the only state putting the issue of legalizing marijuana use in the state.   Four other states are also voting in November.   The time has arrived.   Californians seek to join other states including Washington and Colorado in decriminalizing use and possession of the weed.   Medical marijuana has been legal for a number of years.  Users must get a prescription from a medical doctor.  That license could cost $30-$100, depending on exact location.
     Too many young people have had their lives derailed as a result of a conviction for marijuana -related arrests.   Our jails are overcrowded, courts devote a large amount of time to low level misdemeanors and nonviolent crimes such as possession for sale of the weed.
     Vote Yes, take a step to end the failed 'war on drugs".   Yes, it is still banned by the Federal Government, but maybe they'll finally get the message.

Fall at Lake Tahoe West Shore

Tahoe City Colors

30 Seconds Before Dawn 9/26/16

       So, here's a couple of pics to view while having your morning coffee.  Doesn't get much better around the Lake in October-the 'Tween Season".

World Series: Cubs v. Indians

      As the Series heads to Chicago, it now becomes a best-of-5 matchup.  Jake Arrieta, the dependable Cubs pitcher, helped to even the Series at 1 apiece, defeating the host Cleveland team last night.   The next 3 games will be played at Wriggly Field in the Windy City, in front of fans who haven't witnessed such activity locally since 1948.
      Terry Francona seems up to the task as does his opposing manager Mr. Maddon.  Both managers bring a wealth of talent and experience to the field.   It's proving to be a classic matchup of worthy rivals from the Upper Midwest.

Election Near

     It has been difficult to avoid this cycle's election clamor.  Never has the country had such a choice: either a bombastic neophyte cretin(no offense to cretins) or a seasoned politician with an established record of experience, not the least as an insider for many years while her husband occupied the White House.
     Mrs. Clinton turner 69 yesterday while on the campaign trail.  mr. Trump turned 70 last June, making this pair 2 of the oldest contenders in American history.    Both have lots of baggage, one more than the other: tax returns, Wall St. speeches; the Clinton Foundation, Benghazi, Trump's bankruptcies, Mr. Trump's 3 marriages, Mr. Trump's sexual appetites and boorish behaviors(if not outright criminal); the debate faux pas's,  Mr. Clinton's participation; Chelsea Clinton's role at the Foundation, and on and on and on.    Polls now award Mrs. Clinton the Presidency, with Mr. Trump an also ran.   Congress is another story-it's in play as Republican leaders scramble  to salvage something from this unprecedented shift of voter interest.  Populism: is it really a dirty word?
      Pundits like to throw the term around: a play to voter angst; a play to voter fears; a play to voter needs/desires; a crude take on the uneducated masses.  But, it really is only a word, favored by writers as a threat against democracy as readers look south to Latin American politics for a first hand look at the results of "real" populism: Venezuela, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Ecuador.
     Here in the US, populism is not much more than the voices of interest groups, those that get heard most often: labor organizations/unions; religious blocs; minority groups/blocs; and business blocs-chambers/lobbyists; and our lovable billionaires Bill Gates and Warren Buffet to name 2.
     If you're registered to vote(deadline has passed), you are ready to participate.   Plan ahead-don't let the weather affect your vote.  It is especially important in California with so many propositions on the ballot.  We'll look at some of them.

Highway 89 Update

       If you have to drive into Tahoe City for anything at all, expect delays.   CalTrans crews are feverishly working to finish this season's construction project alongside the lake.  Currently, the big delay is at the Blackwood Canyon turnoff.  Paving equipment is in action complete with heavy rollers, asphalt dumps, and all the finishers.   Stops seem to take about 10 minutes in each direction, with pods of vehicles guided through the cone maze by a CalTrans pickup.   Be careful and aware as the lanes shift left and right.  Practice a little patience and watch for workers moving about the perimeter.
     Weather this weekend looks wet with rain expected.  temps are still not low enough for snow on 89, but higher elevations will get some white stuff.    Time to switch tires?

Nevada Race Even: Hech v. Masto for US Senate

      Well, Tahoma folks, when you gaze east across the lake, what do you see?  A tight race?  Actually, you just see the opposite shoreline of the Silver State, out neighbor(s).   But, as we know from local media, the Senate race for retiring former pugilist/ jack Mormon Senate minority leader Harry Reid's seat is being hotly contested.  Mr. Obama has focused on this race, seeing this as a stepping stone to Democratic control of the upper house of Congress.    Mr. Trump appears to be losing ground, especially among women voters in the state.  Ms. Masto is expected to do well among Latino voters, although the number of new voters in the group is not great.
     Pundits write that the "Reid" machine is working furiously to swing voters to the Democratic candidate.  If the voters elect Ms. Masto, she would become the first Latina in the Senate.  This race underscores the ambiguity of the outcome on November 8th.  Polls indicate a victory for Mrs. Clinton, but the Congressional outcome is far from decided.   The House has many more Republican seats in play during this cycle-25.   The Senate enough to change the balance to a Democratic majority.  Union mambers in Las Vegas are out in force to vote against Trump.  Many of its members work for one of Mr. Trump's properties in the gambling mecca.  They claim he is not the best employer in town.   This outpouring of Democratic voters will aid Ms. Masto's efforts.
      These last 2 weeks of campaigning will tilt many races, justifying the heavy spending across the political spectrum.

Football in Vegas?

     Big money is trying to fool citizens and voters in Nevada into believing a football team with a new stadium is good for everybody in Nevada.  Sheldon Adelson, the local billionaire, is touting the transfer of the Oakland raiders football team to Las Vegas as a good thing.  He has pledged $650 billions of his money to support the construction of a $2 billion  structure in Vegas to house the team(for 8 games a year!)  The construction trade unions are falling all over themselves to support this fantasy world supported by wealthy individuals and corporate interests.  The governor of nevada says he'll sign a bill from the legislature to provide public funds to support the deal.  What an outrage!  Who has this man/politician in its pocket?   Could it be the NFL?  The NFL team owners?  THey have to agree to allow a team to move, 75% of them-they are the only voters on this deal.
      Now Oakland, the city, has said that they are pursuing a deal to keep the Raiders in Oakland.  But, Mayor Libby Shaaf says no public moneys will be included.  The city of Oakland is already paying off bonds on the $95 millions used to get the team back from Los Angeles a few years  ago.   If the team goes to Vegas, the city will still be paying off that debt.  Hmmmm.  Who protects the taxpayer from these wolves in the NFL?   Is the NFL a criminal enterprise?  It appears to be, given that the teams/owners are exempt from many laws designed to protect workers/employees from monopolies.
more later

Dino Cortopassi: 2016 State Proposition 53 Campaign

      Rarely does a citizen get directly involved in statewide politics on his own.  But, in California, being as large as it is and populated with about 38 million souls, there's room enough for a few individuals who want to put their money where their mouth is: up front.  This past weekend, our friend, Dino(Dean) Cortopassi, was featured in a large article in the Chronicle describing his efforts to influence Sacramento by directing a proposition at a specific target.
      Proposition 53 is funded by Mr. Cortopassi.  This is an initiative constitutional amendment.   According to the Voters' Handbook, it does 2 things, and only 2 things:1) it requires  California voter approval for STATE projects  that would use over $2 billion in state revenue bonds.
2) BEFORE THAT VOTE, it ensures full disclosure of the TOTAL COST of any state revenue project greater than $2 billion.
     Seems simple enough.  And that's what stirs opposition from Sacramento.  The operative word here is revenue.  Revenue bonds are different than state bonds.  State bonds are repaid out of the state's general fund which is supported by direct taxes(income, property, sales).
    Mr. Cortopassi, a very wealthy person who succeeded in California's agribusiness area in the Central Valley is a former Republican who is now a Democrat.  Makes sense in a one party state like California.  His vitriol is directed at Mr. Jerry Brown, the governor, and his 2 pet projects:  the high speed bullet train which is supposed to careen down the valley somewhere, sometime; and 2) the Delta Tunnels, which will construct 2 massive tunnels under the Sacramento /San Joaquin delta to move water down south somewhere for something or somebody.  The costs for these projects is unknown at present, but they will be north of $50-60 billions.  The poor taxpayers will be on the hook while Wall St. bankers will be rolling in profits for years to come while California's citizens will face endless toil to pay off the revenue bonds to pay the mortgages.
    Opposition is lead by the usual shills: the California Pro. Firefighters(notorious shills), Tim Quinn, director of California Water Agencies(parasites); and Mark Ghirlarducci, director of Cal. Off. of Emergency Services (Democratic Party shill).
     It's time that voters recognize the downside of one party politics.  Here in California, aka the Emerald City, wishful thinking seems to be the voters mindset.  Mr. Cortopassi would like to put some restraint on the do-gooders in Sacramento, given their proclivities to throw money, taxpayers' money, at every suggested social and environmental ill.
Vote YES on Proposition 53

Tahoe City Weather Update

     Tonight, look for the classic Tahoe mix:  rain, snow, a little of both.   Totals for the storm(s) could equal about 2" of precipitation.  It's a little too warm for regular snow to fall continuously, but that's ok- moisture helps to lessen the risk of fire in the area.
    Be aware: drive with caution, Be Safe-watch for fire crews and apparatus along Highway 89 and West Shore Boulevard/ North Shore Boulevard.
    Information provided by the Weather Underground.wunderground.com

Emerald Fire :Updated

     Highway 89, the main thoroughfare of Tahoma, remains closed at this hour south of Emerald Bay, due to the Emerald Fire(named for its proximity to Emerald bay).  About 80 personnel are in the vicinity conducting operations in the area near Cascade Lake.   The fire is about 90%+ contained as rain continues to assist efforts to extinguish the blaze.
     Meeks Bay Fire and North Tahoe Fire crews are helping USFS crews with a unified CalFire/USFS   operations center.   Highway 89 will remain closed for an unknown amount of time tomorrow as cleanup efforts occupy the road.  The rugged terrain and limited access has hampered contol efforts but Mother Nature has cooperated by providing cool temps and a light rain.
      The Tobin Fire in the Upper Feather River Canyon is under control.   The Washoe Valley fire is about 70% contained.  It, too, has been aided at control by cool weather and light rain.
      The Mayor visited the Sobranes Fire area over the weekend in an attempt to learn about the most expensive fire in USFS history, costing more than $200 millions to control and extinguish.  It has rained in the Los Padres Nat. Forest for over 24 hours, beginning around midnight last night.  The Mayor stayed in Carmel and listened to the falling rain all night.  Upon returning home today, it rained all the way; and Highway 101 was scored with auto accidents, about 1 every 10 miles or so, as drivers were confronted with limited visibility, crashing rain, slick roads that were often inundated with standing waters.   Ahh, the first days of winter; always rough for the traveler.
      Carmel Valley, the town, was the scene of various heavy equipment trucks and trailers as crews departed Monterey County for home or to another fire scene elsewhere in California.   It's been a long season and it's not over yet.  The Sobranes Fire began July 22nd, almost 3 months ago.  We drove along Tassajara Road, the scene of much of the effort to halt the spread of the blaze as it spread east from Big Sur and the coast along Highway 1.   There was some stark evidence of fire along the ridge tops where backfires had been set and gained some headway on their own.  The CalFire and USFS hotshot crews have departed the monastery at Tassajara.   Local crews/volunteers remain to offer continued vigilance.   Many of the residents have been active at the scene all this time- a long haul, much appreciated by local residents as can be seen in the many posted signs of tribute and gratitude for their efforts on behalf of the community.   The volunteers in the Cachuagua Fire District are also to be commended for their efforts. 

Signs of Too Much Trump

     We've heard reports of vandalism against Trump signage around the 'hood.   It is a 'sign' of too much negative reporting in California, the nation's true 1 party state.   Yes, the Dems are solidly in charge of everything, including the political spin that is a constant.  The results: fringe supporters of Hillary will not tolerate any opponents to their "chosen" leader.   This does not bode well for the people of California.  In time, the pendulum will swing back.   Many folks have long memories(see Middle East-Shiite/Sunni issues).
     Graffiti has been a weapon of choice for many protesters and they have used it against Trump supporters.   However, it is never without costs.  It is an infringement of free speech.  Damaging and removal of signage is not the way to protest.   All voters have the right to express their opinions with signs of their choice.   It is a criminal act to remove such privately placed signs on one's property.
     So, my friends, despite the rancor in this election cycle, reasonable steps to oppose a candidate are allowed, but they do not include obvious acts of vandalism.

Weather Update for Tahoma

   Forecasters now predict rain: too warm for snow.   So, get ready for high winds with lots of rain.  That is some respite from early winter, but we need precipitation in any form. The more the better.  Given the state of the forest inside the basin, the trees need moisture to put an end to the bark beetle infestation and the devastation it has caused.  The National forest people/rangers are limiting thinning of white fir trees for that reason alone: too many trees have been killed off by the beetles, cutting down of any living tree is counter productive.   Maybe this year will follow last year as an average snow winter.  We hope so.

Dump Trump Now Is message From RNC

     So, we have a party split: Repulsicans cannot all agree how to remedy the conflict: keep him or dump him.  It seems the leaders of the party have spoken: no more advertising on Trump-he's as good as lost.  After last weekend's revelations(video w/sound), most pols feels he is un-electable.  The Clinton campaign now is focusing on getting out the vote, especially women.  This can help her in swing states and especially Florida.
     Newt Gingrich, the old Republican from Congress, the historian of self import, came out and said there are 2 Darnolds: the Little and the Big.  The " little" he said, responds in childish ways to slights and crticisms; the "big" Donald moves ahead in out-sized ways.  It is pathetic, really.  The professional pols are tripping all over themselves trying to dodge the flak as it overwhelms all Republicans, even those seeking refuge 'down ballot'.   Take the old reprobate Rudy Giuliani.  He can't say enough about the good the Donald will do once he gets to the White House.  Of course, there will be a role for Rudy to play in any Republican administration, given his friend, Chris Christie is overseeing the transition team of the Trump campaign.   Maybe Rudy will be ambassador to Kiribati or Monaco, or Lichtenstein.   Poor Rudy, acting like the veteran athlete who doesn't know when to retire and stays too long to justify his salary.
      The darn Old now says he's free to act on his own without party support.  Good luck with that.  The sooner the "Biggest Loser" leaves the scene, we all will be better for it.  Enough of his rants, lies, and videos. 

Giants Blow Lead in 9th

     So, the Giants.  Looking at going back to Chicago for a Game 5 in the top of the 9th inning,they got a shock: a 4 run rally from the Cubs.  Bruce Bochy chose not to keep Matt Moore as his main man.  Instead, he went to the bull pen.  One after the other, all his relievers failed to hold back the Cubs.  A hit, a walk, a hit.  5-3.  Then a double: now tied 5-5.  More pitching changes.  Another hit, 6-5.
     In the bottom of the 9th, the Giants met their match: fireballer Chapman.   He could not be touched: 3 up, 3 down.  So ends the 2016 season for San Francisco.  Despite making the playoffs as a wild card team, their inherent weaknesses took their toll.   Even as the hitting improved, the bullpen could not hold the lead.   And they were playing on their home turf at AT&T Park.
     So, good for the Cubs.   They haven't won it all in over 100 years.  Maybe this is the year, finally.  Time will tell.  Can they best Washington or Los Angeles?  I think so.  Neither of those two have all the tickets they need to get to the big Dance.  But, it's baseball.  Anything can happen, as we just saw.

Dump Trump Takes on New Meaning

      So, did you look at the video? No? The Mayor didn't either.  What for?  To confirm what is already known: that the Darn Old is incapable of respectable behavior?  The debate last night, the 2nd, held no unexpected revelations: they had already arrived into the in-boxes.  Wikileaks provided some excerpts of alleged speeches Hillary gave to financial gurus of Wall St. awhile ago.  The Darn Old had to cope with the fact that millions of potential voters heard/saw him describing to Billy Bush that he liked to grab a little pussy from unsuspecting women.  Oh, please.
    And so it went:  Anderson Cooper, the old media star, somewhat subdued, did his level best to make the affair sound relevant.  Didn't work really. Hillary lashed out at Russya and Mr. Mad Vlad and his Syrian adventures of late which proves that even a superpower can trip itself up without even trying.   Propping up the criminal enterprise of Bashar al Assad's government seems to know no bounds.  It puts the Russyan military leaders in a position of being war criminals when the final bill comes due.  Certainly, the UN will be gathering evidence alongside the State Dept. of John Kerry.  Having spoken of the events of late in Syria, Mr. Kerry indicated that the Obama Administration has finally awakened to the realities on the ground near the city of Aleppo.  Indiscriminate bombing of hospitals occupied by civilians is generally frowned upon by civilized nations.  Not so much by our Russyan acquaintances.   Didn't anybody tell Mad Vlad that aerial bombing is not an exact science?  During WW II, strategic bombing effort results were much lower than even the most conservative estimates.  Even with today's "smart bombs", targeting information is suspect, even in real time.
    So, the Darn Old has to wake up today knowing that he is going down.  Only wackos like Paul Ryan, Mitch McConnell, and Rudy Giuliani think that the Goof has a prayer.  They want to limit the collateral damage of the video and its effect on down-ballot races that could change the control of the Senate and the House.   Good luck with that.

Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City

      Well, Sports Fans, we have a local update as winter approaches.  Weather forecasters predict----SNOW, sooner rather than later.  Always good news for ski enthusiasts.  The Tahoe City PUD sent out a recent bulletin in an attempt to justify its exploding budget expenses.
    First, it announced a new ice rink at the Winter Sports Park.   Wheee: now all locals can don skates and recreate to their hearts content w/o traveling to Reno?  Opening day: Nov. 25th-Thanksgiving weekend.  The rink will be the size of a basketball court:50' X 80'-massive enough to do a double axel or a triple.  The sledding hill will also be there, and a snowshoe loop.
     The TCPUD has a backup offer for Mid-Sierra Utilities, a local, private water system.  The first place position is held by a larger private company- Golden State Water Co., a div. of the larger American States Water Co., a predatory corporation which would raise rates to astronomical levels forcing the hand of locals to take over the system by eminent domain.  We will keep an eye on the contract as things develop.  More info at:www.tcpud.org.
     Homewood bike trail
   The new, final link in the trail system will be completed by November, making the bike path complete from Tahoe City all the way to Sugar Pine Point State Park, south of Tahoma.  Look for delays along Highway 89 next to the Truckee River as road work is finished on access points to the river banks.
Budget Meeting
    A meeting to discuss the proposed budget will be held at TCPUD board room on Nov. 2nd.  If you want to be heard on the finances of the district, be there or send in a letter with concerns by 1 Nov.
For updates and information, go toinfo@tcpud.org.

Russyan Hacking: a Modern Concept of Real Politik

      In a very soft way, the White House announced to the world that it must be understood that the Kremlin has taken a new approach to cyber attacks on business and governments around the world.  It seems that the Kremlinistas know there are few downsides to these efforts.  But US intelligence services have all but fingered Russya as the chief source of cyber attacks.   The Chinese have vowed to prosecute/prevent cyber attacks after it was disclosed that their military had engaged in such attacks.  The Russyans, on the other hand, have denied any such activity and in return have pointed to the US as a source of degrading assaults on the Russyan culture.  Go figure.
     At the same time, the Russyan population has been supporting Mr. Putin and his leadership.  But Mr. Obama, despite his limited time left in office, is beginning to respond, probably with even more serious economic sanctions against individuals and Russyan government agencies.  Time will tell the degree of these sanctions but without a doubt, it's time that Russya be served notice that these attacks will no longer be tolerated.

Book Review: Hampton Sides' GHOST SOLDIERS

    A friend gave me a copy of a popular history of an event from the annals of WW II.  This event is part of the numerous memoir accounts of the infamous "Bataan Death March" of January, 1942 when Japanese army troops marched captured Allied POW's from Manila Bay to a Camp O'Donnell 75 miles to the north on the island of Luzon where they had been ordered to surrender by commanding officers.
      Over 1,000 prisoners were abused and murdered during this hell march.   Many survivors would live only to be murdered later at the hands of Japanese guards at other camps near Mount Pinatubo volcano.   Many were later forcibly transferred to japan where they were used as forced laborers in coal mines and arms factories.
      The story concerns an American led rescue/prison break at the site of a notorious camp.  Gen. Douglas MacArthur had landed on the beach of Luzon at the Lingayen Gulf with the goal of capturing Manila, which had been taken by the Japanese army shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor in December, 1941.   With American air power dominating the defenders, the now seasoned American army was rolling up the vaunted Japanese occupiers.  A group of allied POW's were being held in a camp in eastern Luzon, in an area thought to be a last refuge of the defenders.  Intel had references to a complete liquidation/ mass murder of those same POW's.   A mission was assigned to a new unit of the Army: the 6th Ranger Battalion led by Col. Mucci.  Time was of the essence.
     This company plus of American Rangers would be joined by another company of Filipino guerilla fighters who knew the terrain intimately; terrain that they had fought Japanese invaders for almost 4 years.   They would guide the Rangers past Japanese camps, and maintain the element of surprise that was crucial to the success of the mission.   The Rangers traveled light, foregoing helmets and heavy gear, they were armed for close combat and rapid attack.
     The Japanese were withdrawing, and unbeknownst to the attackers, the guards left the camp 2 days prior to the Rangers attack.  The prisoners were now in charge of the camp.  Until, retreating Japanese Army troops arrived and took over some of the camp.
    And then the rangers arrived and put their plan into action.   It was a complete surprise, at night, and even the POW's were shocked at the rescue action.  In short order, the Japanese were routed, the POW's gathered up, and the group fled into the jungle to guide the weak and sickly prisoners back to the American lines.  With the help of local farmers and their carts and wagons, even those who could not walk were brought back alive.
     It was a signal event in a long war, a daring rescue carried out to perfection with minimal losses on the side of the Americans.   Tragically, one of the casualties was a doctor who voluteered to accompany the rangers to provide medical treatment to the POWs.
Mayor awards 5*****: a great read.

Kerry Points a Finger East

       So,  Pres. Obama's puppet, John Kerry, finally had the green light-GO- to finger the Kremlin as the source of war crimes in Syria.  Mr. Kerry stated that it would be appropriate for war crimes charges against governments carrying out the bombings of hospitals in Aleppo, Syria which have caused numerous civilian casualties among civilians trapped in the city and receiving treatment at those hospitals.
      Additionally, among other things, US Intelligence officials have pointed to the Kremlin as the source of authority for hackers in Russya to gain access to election computers across the US at a time of intense preparation for the November national elections.   Hmmmm.  Seems to be a state-sponsored form of recreation for all the Little Russkies who don't have real jobs.   Let's be Hackers-we'll be considered Heroes of the Nation.  Yippeeeeee.
      And then, the Russyan Navy, the little group of skittish little craft, carried on some manuevers around the Baltic- vic. Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia- possibly bringing in a missile with considerable capabilities.  Just to stir things up a bit on the northern front, in case the EU forgot about the Russyan enclave on the coast, separate from European Russyan territory.   All of this from the largest country in the world which spans 11 time zones.
     And down south, in the eastern Mediterrenean Sea, the Russyan Navy has sent an aircraft carrier to bolster the air resources of the military force that is assisting the Syrian regime of Bashar al Assad.  Perhaps, now, the White House will consider more sanctions against the Putin machine.  Mr. Putin is feeling it, now that the price of a barrel of oil is north of $50.  Maybe OPEC will finally agree to limit production, opening the door for increased Russyan production.   That would please the Kremlin, but also American oil companies who have been waiting for these same price increases.  Frackers: "To the Ramparts".   This comes on top of a recent announcements from Alaska of a 2 billion barrel discovery a short distance from Prudhoe Bay and the pipeline's northern terminus.  That production could be flowing ina very short time as it enjoys complete support from the state government which needs the infusion of revenue from the pipeline which has seen reduced flows for several years.
     And we have the issue of Edward Snowden's continued stay in Moskova as a guest of Mad Vlad.   This still has a way to go before it is played out.  More documents to be released?   Hmmm.  Maybe?  Maybe not.
     Not a good week for being a Russyan.

Book Review: All the Kremlin's Men, by Mikhail Zygar

      Mr. Zygar is the founding editor-in-chief of Russya's only independent TV station, TV Dozhd(Rain), and the book, which reflects the length and breadth of his sources inside Mr. Putin's inner circle, was an immediate sensation when it was first published in Russya.
       Some of the information includes the story of the run up to the Sochi Olympic Games.  Mr. Putin was initially gainst the location and the games themselves.  But his insiders campaigned for the games and for Crimea, too.  So, the Games went on and, lo, and behold, the next thing one knows, the Kremlin marches its troops into Crimea, declaring it now part of Russya.   Hmmm.  Good advice?  Good move?  And then: Ukraine.
      Regarding Crimea, Putin's inner circle, led by Security Council chief Nikolai Patrushev, Pres. Admin chief Sergei Ivanov , and fed. Sec. Service (FSB) Alexander Bortnikov, swing into action in fall, 2013.   They assured Mad Vlad that locals in Crimea wanted to be Russyan again.  Who?  Where are they?   Well, let's provide them.  Soon plane loads of veterans of Russya's past wars, biker club members, soccer club players began landing in Crimea.  They were under the control of Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu and Duma Deputy Franz Klintsevich.  It was an improvised Maidan...with the difference that most activists were Russyan, " writes Mr. Zygar.
      So, after myriad shenanigans, the US, the EU, and Canada imposed sanctions on Russya.  Strapped for cash, Mr. Vlad turned to his old reliable supporters: Bashar al Assad.  he authorised some air attacks on behalf of the regime, to ensure a cozy relationship in the area.   For 50 years , the Assad's have relied on these close ties to the Kremlin and its military support.  Now it was time to help out an old friend-Ha!
     The author finds that Mr. Putin has become more isolated from outside influence.  he has removed many of his earlier support staffers.  He has fewer insiders who advise him, with the resulting stultifying results.  Like all dictators, they eventually trust nobody, not even family.  (se North Korea).
Those remaining on the inside fear that they, too, will be banished if they tell Mad Vlad something he doesn't like.  Hmmm.
     And now what?  More nostalgia for the Soviet era?  hardly.
published in America by Public Affairs, 371 pages, $27.99-cheap)
The review courtesy of Karen Dawisha and WSJ.
Mayor awards 5*****