Welcome, Stranger: Is Humboldt Hospitable?

When the Back to the Landers showed up in Southern Humboldt thirty years ago, they were met with suspicion and hostility.  Today they are pillars of the community–starting health clinics (Redwoods Rural), gathering places (Mateel Community Center), and businesses (Garden of Beadin).  But some of us the old timers while married to them or good friends with them– deep down,  consider most of them not-quite-us.

And, in turn, the newcomers greet newer-comers with more overt friendliness but some of the same standoffishness. A new blog in Humboldtia describes the stranger’s feelings. He (or possibly she) in a post titled Unwelcome to the Emerald Triangle gives a sample snippet of a speech to show what s/he means. “Did you see that MSNBC video on the Emerald Triangle?  We’ve been overrun since that show aired.  It’s awful.  You want some weed?”

Married to a newcomer and immersed in the new-comer culture for years (which I love), none-the-less I think I know why this latest influx feels excluded and unwelcome and why old-timer and newcomer Humbolters alike don’t seem totally welcoming.  When outsiders come, they want to be appreciated for who they are (not asked to change) and likewise Humboldters of all stripes want the same thing.  However, mixing in new elements means change and, relatively comfortable and happy in their lives, most don’t want change. Change might mean something bad happening.

At least on the Humboldt Blog scene, let’s try to welcome new elements.  Let’s try to incorporate change with an eye to how we can be better for it.  We may not totally succeed but, I’m going to enjoy the effort.

So “Howdy, stranger J2Bad.  Welcome to the Humboldt blog scene.  I’m looking forward to knowing you…Oh, and have some virtual hot chocolate chip cookies.  Let me know what you think of them.”

___________

Hattip to Highboldtage

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Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago

I normally don’t post on this blog anymore, but I do come by to see what’s new and interesting. About being welcome — when my parents moved to Southern Humboldt right after WWII all the locals rolled UP the welcome mat. Had a tough time in school too. The when all the Washington and Oregon okies and arkies began to show up you should of heard my folks carry on. Not much has changed in 60 years.

By the way, you want an immediate fight? Just walk up and call someone and “okie” or worse yet an “arkie.”

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  Joe Blow

I had an epiphany the other day. I referred to our backyard (in the middle of a remodel) as looking Okie. As my Grandfather on my mom’s side came from there, it was just a familial reference to a messy place. The look on my niece’s face (she’s from Missouri) let me know I had committed as bigoted of a remark as insisting that blacks are all on welfare. :Blush:

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago

I normally don’t post on this blog anymore, but I do come by to see what’s new and interesting. About being welcome — when my parents moved to Southern Humboldt right after WWII all the locals rolled UP the welcome mat. Had a tough time in school too. The when all the Washington and Oregon okies and arkies began to show up you should of heard my folks carry on. Not much has changed in 60 years.

By the way, you want an immediate fight? Just walk up and call someone and “okie” or worse yet an “arkie.”

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  Joe Blow

I had an epiphany the other day. I referred to our backyard (in the middle of a remodel) as looking Okie. As my Grandfather on my mom’s side came from there, it was just a familial reference to a messy place. The look on my niece’s face (she’s from Missouri) let me know I had committed as bigoted of a remark as insisting that blacks are all on welfare. :Blush:

Dave
Guest
Dave
14 years ago

You have the right idea Kym – let’s welcome all new blogs to our Humboldt Blogisphere.

I’m going to check this newcomer out now, Thanks for the link.

Dave
Guest
Dave
14 years ago

You have the right idea Kym – let’s welcome all new blogs to our Humboldt Blogisphere.

I’m going to check this newcomer out now, Thanks for the link.

trackback

[…] Trinity, Weed Thanks to Higboltage for the link – my first! – and thanks to Redheaded Blackbelt for the welcome and the cookies.  To be honest, I felt a little sheepish reading those responses […]

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[…] Trinity, Weed Thanks to Higboltage for the link – my first! – and thanks to Redheaded Blackbelt for the welcome and the cookies.  To be honest, I felt a little sheepish reading those responses […]

Jen
Guest
Jen
14 years ago

The Redneck and I have talked this over a few times. Because he’s fourth generation Eureka born and descended from the Yurok and Karuk indians. So, his perception is “Old Timer”. I moved here in 1995, married the Redneck in 2000. I’m a newcomer.
The Old Timer view is this: “This used to be a great place for loggers/fisherman/growers and then new people came and demanded their Starbucks and their brand of environmentalism. It just plain ruined it. But they ain’t drivin’ ME out.” And if you add a low pitched growl you get the picture. LOL.
The new comer loves it here, raves about it to his/her friends, talks about how nice it is to “get away from the rat race”. And then, they bring all their rat race ways with them.
I’ve heard newcomers complain about being “behind the Redwood Curtain” even though that barrier is the very reason it stays as “rustic” as it has. I’ve heard complaints because there’s “no nightlife in Eureka” when many of them contributed to the massive economic changes in the county so there’s fewer businesses like Old Town Bar and Grill or The Ritz (back when it was a bar).
And I’ve heard complaints about the roads and how they “should be widened”.
But change IS inevitable. Old Timers prefer the veeerrry slow route.

Jen
Guest
Jen
14 years ago

The Redneck and I have talked this over a few times. Because he’s fourth generation Eureka born and descended from the Yurok and Karuk indians. So, his perception is “Old Timer”. I moved here in 1995, married the Redneck in 2000. I’m a newcomer.
The Old Timer view is this: “This used to be a great place for loggers/fisherman/growers and then new people came and demanded their Starbucks and their brand of environmentalism. It just plain ruined it. But they ain’t drivin’ ME out.” And if you add a low pitched growl you get the picture. LOL.
The new comer loves it here, raves about it to his/her friends, talks about how nice it is to “get away from the rat race”. And then, they bring all their rat race ways with them.
I’ve heard newcomers complain about being “behind the Redwood Curtain” even though that barrier is the very reason it stays as “rustic” as it has. I’ve heard complaints because there’s “no nightlife in Eureka” when many of them contributed to the massive economic changes in the county so there’s fewer businesses like Old Town Bar and Grill or The Ritz (back when it was a bar).
And I’ve heard complaints about the roads and how they “should be widened”.
But change IS inevitable. Old Timers prefer the veeerrry slow route.

Staff
Member
14 years ago

Jen,

Well said. You are well on your way to being an Old timer;> I think the main feeling is that newcomers (whenever they came–50 30 10 2 years ago) need to understand that we like ourselves just fine and don’t much like being criticized and told our ways/beliefs are wrong.

I think the main thing oldtimers need to realize is that newcomers like themselves just fine and don’t much like being criticized and told their ways/beliefs are wrong (Of course, if either old timer or newcomer’s beliefs conflict with mine then I reserve the right to tell them–loudly;>)

Staff
Member
14 years ago

Jen,

Well said. You are well on your way to being an Old timer;> I think the main feeling is that newcomers (whenever they came–50 30 10 2 years ago) need to understand that we like ourselves just fine and don’t much like being criticized and told our ways/beliefs are wrong.

I think the main thing oldtimers need to realize is that newcomers like themselves just fine and don’t much like being criticized and told their ways/beliefs are wrong (Of course, if either old timer or newcomer’s beliefs conflict with mine then I reserve the right to tell them–loudly;>)

Mr. Nice
Guest
Mr. Nice
14 years ago

Having been exposed to my share of Okies, I can say for certain that only folks without roots in Oklahoma would take offense to the term “Okie.”

If Okie creates an instant argument, you just called a non-Okie an Okie. Real Okies are proud of their bare-footed roots.

That is, if you call someone whose family is from New England but who acts like a closed-teeth talking, shoeless hillbilly an Okie, they might get mad. If you call an Okie an Okie, it’s like calling a Hoosier a Hoosier.

And I quote:

I’m a first-generation, genuine California Okie,
Born in Barstow, raised in Bakersfield.
My mom and pop were orphans of the Oklahoma dust bowl.
I was born in the back of a rusty Oldsmobile.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  Mr. Nice

Mr. Nice,

[I always love your comments. I must be the only blogger who looks eagerly in her spam (you always end up there.)]

I have to admit that to a certain extent is how I feel. I’ve always been proud of being an Okie (or at least descended from one.) Still, I suspect now that I’m aware of how horrifying it can sound to someone else, I’ll restrict my “Okie” comments to people I know won’t be shocked.

Mr. Nice
Guest
Mr. Nice
14 years ago

Having been exposed to my share of Okies, I can say for certain that only folks without roots in Oklahoma would take offense to the term “Okie.”

If Okie creates an instant argument, you just called a non-Okie an Okie. Real Okies are proud of their bare-footed roots.

That is, if you call someone whose family is from New England but who acts like a closed-teeth talking, shoeless hillbilly an Okie, they might get mad. If you call an Okie an Okie, it’s like calling a Hoosier a Hoosier.

And I quote:

I’m a first-generation, genuine California Okie,
Born in Barstow, raised in Bakersfield.
My mom and pop were orphans of the Oklahoma dust bowl.
I was born in the back of a rusty Oldsmobile.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  Mr. Nice

Mr. Nice,

[I always love your comments. I must be the only blogger who looks eagerly in her spam (you always end up there.)]

I have to admit that to a certain extent is how I feel. I’ve always been proud of being an Okie (or at least descended from one.) Still, I suspect now that I’m aware of how horrifying it can sound to someone else, I’ll restrict my “Okie” comments to people I know won’t be shocked.

AllRelative
Guest
AllRelative
14 years ago

Just wondering whether I am an old timer in the 5th generation of our Northern California family? Is my teenager right to feel superior as 6th generation? And what if I grew up slightly over the hill? Does it credit or discredit that I am getting more over the hill all the time nowadays? Must one have particularly fond memories of the days of unrestrained logging, massive salmon runs, or the floods of ’64 to qualify for old-timer status? If I grew a beard would that be more impressive than anyone else just visiting? Has a veteran earned a right to live or camp where the fishing is good? Are all things Humboldt so virtuous today we must acculturate even if we are allergic to smoke? Please pass the cookies.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  AllRelative

Now, you are getting into the tangled social web of Humboldt where things aren’t so black and white as Old timer and New comer. Don’t be making me actually think instead of just pop off a post.

I would have said most people probably don’t even think of me as an old timer (except those few old timers themselves who know how long my family has been here) as I’ve acculturated nicely to the influx –at least I would have said that until yesterday when the very nice elderly ladies at the thrift store yesterday asked me, as I was putting pants for my 7 year old on the counter, if I was buying for my grandchildren—You don’t happen to have any Depends or a cane do you? I’ve feeling oldtimerish in more ways than one.

AllRelative
Guest
AllRelative
14 years ago

Just wondering whether I am an old timer in the 5th generation of our Northern California family? Is my teenager right to feel superior as 6th generation? And what if I grew up slightly over the hill? Does it credit or discredit that I am getting more over the hill all the time nowadays? Must one have particularly fond memories of the days of unrestrained logging, massive salmon runs, or the floods of ’64 to qualify for old-timer status? If I grew a beard would that be more impressive than anyone else just visiting? Has a veteran earned a right to live or camp where the fishing is good? Are all things Humboldt so virtuous today we must acculturate even if we are allergic to smoke? Please pass the cookies.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  AllRelative

Now, you are getting into the tangled social web of Humboldt where things aren’t so black and white as Old timer and New comer. Don’t be making me actually think instead of just pop off a post.

I would have said most people probably don’t even think of me as an old timer (except those few old timers themselves who know how long my family has been here) as I’ve acculturated nicely to the influx –at least I would have said that until yesterday when the very nice elderly ladies at the thrift store yesterday asked me, as I was putting pants for my 7 year old on the counter, if I was buying for my grandchildren—You don’t happen to have any Depends or a cane do you? I’ve feeling oldtimerish in more ways than one.

Tj
Guest
Tj
14 years ago

Mark and I have been blessed by feeling nothing but welcomed! Thanks Humboldt.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  Tj

Ah, but you guys feel like you belong and do a wonderful job of not raising your eyebrows at the way we do things here. You may be shocked but you are shocked quietly and you jumped right in on the barn raising so to speak. You are always willing to lend a hand. Sometimes, and I think Ernie will attest to this, there is a feeling that the Newcomers want to tell us what we’re doing wrong but don’t want to do anything to help us take care of each other–which is the real Humboldt way.

After writing this, I just realized that it helped me define how I personally define an oldtimer–I define them as one who jumps in and starts making the community work, without unnecessarily badgering everyone around to do things their way.

Tj
Guest
Tj
14 years ago

Mark and I have been blessed by feeling nothing but welcomed! Thanks Humboldt.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  Tj

Ah, but you guys feel like you belong and do a wonderful job of not raising your eyebrows at the way we do things here. You may be shocked but you are shocked quietly and you jumped right in on the barn raising so to speak. You are always willing to lend a hand. Sometimes, and I think Ernie will attest to this, there is a feeling that the Newcomers want to tell us what we’re doing wrong but don’t want to do anything to help us take care of each other–which is the real Humboldt way.

After writing this, I just realized that it helped me define how I personally define an oldtimer–I define them as one who jumps in and starts making the community work, without unnecessarily badgering everyone around to do things their way.

humboldtkids
Guest
humboldtkids
14 years ago

Fiance here:

Kym, back in the late 70’s and early 80’s Texas got a huge influx of people from “up north.” That was when the “disco” scene” hit. The first question someone would ask went from “whats you sign” to “where are you from.” All us native Texans heard out of them was how screwed up our state was, how ugly it was, etc……My response was “if you don’t like it leave.” No one invited them. My philosophy is when I go to a new place, whether for a visit or to live, is to “do as the locals do.’ I try to immerse myself in THEIR culture. I didnt’ want to take Texas to Oregon or Nevada. Everyplace has its problems and differences. While I do think SoHum has certain issues it needs to deal with (as you well know.) We were invited by the court to move there. We don’t agree with some things there and knew we couldn’t change it so we stayed here. You guys have your lifestyle and your welcome to it, anyone that shows up needs to either get with the program or get the hell out! Its rude to come in and tell the locals how to live their lives.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  humboldtkids

Fiance,

I think coming here and choosing to live differently is alright (God knows there are enough different lifestyles here) The point, as you say above, is to not tell others without walking a long time in their shoes what they are doing wrong.

humboldtkids
Guest
humboldtkids
14 years ago

Fiance here:

Kym, back in the late 70’s and early 80’s Texas got a huge influx of people from “up north.” That was when the “disco” scene” hit. The first question someone would ask went from “whats you sign” to “where are you from.” All us native Texans heard out of them was how screwed up our state was, how ugly it was, etc……My response was “if you don’t like it leave.” No one invited them. My philosophy is when I go to a new place, whether for a visit or to live, is to “do as the locals do.’ I try to immerse myself in THEIR culture. I didnt’ want to take Texas to Oregon or Nevada. Everyplace has its problems and differences. While I do think SoHum has certain issues it needs to deal with (as you well know.) We were invited by the court to move there. We don’t agree with some things there and knew we couldn’t change it so we stayed here. You guys have your lifestyle and your welcome to it, anyone that shows up needs to either get with the program or get the hell out! Its rude to come in and tell the locals how to live their lives.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  humboldtkids

Fiance,

I think coming here and choosing to live differently is alright (God knows there are enough different lifestyles here) The point, as you say above, is to not tell others without walking a long time in their shoes what they are doing wrong.

Ben
Guest
Ben
14 years ago

Here’s my hit on the “Real Humboldter”, the Local… You have to have gone (not necessarily graduated) to South Fork High School. Period. I’ve been here 38 years (Holy cow! Can that be true?) and I’m a newcomer. My kids are Humboldters. Not all of them. One daughter went to school in LA and is a newcomer. One daughter has been out of the County since 1979 or so but she is a Humboldter. Go figure. For the kids, now nearly grandparents who were in school with my kids, I’m Mikhaila’s dad or Leo’s dad. I know guys (especially) who came here in 11th or 12th grade and never felt accepted. Los of great friends but still… different.
Now here’s my punditry on the word “Okie”. I hate the idea that it’s a slur. The sainted Blackie Adams himself would always call a huge family row “Okie Possum Stew”. I will love that phrase all my life and have to admit using it occasionally among friends. I remember when calling someone a “character” around here could produce mayhem. I still say “Okie wood pile”. It happens to be a compliment as that is my description for a super neat pile with boxed ends. When I say “Okie gardener” I’m talking about a super neat garden done in rows not my hippie conglomeration. I apologize if I offend anyone but “Okie” is a compliment as far as I’m concerned.

Ben
Guest
Ben
14 years ago

Here’s my hit on the “Real Humboldter”, the Local… You have to have gone (not necessarily graduated) to South Fork High School. Period. I’ve been here 38 years (Holy cow! Can that be true?) and I’m a newcomer. My kids are Humboldters. Not all of them. One daughter went to school in LA and is a newcomer. One daughter has been out of the County since 1979 or so but she is a Humboldter. Go figure. For the kids, now nearly grandparents who were in school with my kids, I’m Mikhaila’s dad or Leo’s dad. I know guys (especially) who came here in 11th or 12th grade and never felt accepted. Los of great friends but still… different.
Now here’s my punditry on the word “Okie”. I hate the idea that it’s a slur. The sainted Blackie Adams himself would always call a huge family row “Okie Possum Stew”. I will love that phrase all my life and have to admit using it occasionally among friends. I remember when calling someone a “character” around here could produce mayhem. I still say “Okie wood pile”. It happens to be a compliment as that is my description for a super neat pile with boxed ends. When I say “Okie gardener” I’m talking about a super neat garden done in rows not my hippie conglomeration. I apologize if I offend anyone but “Okie” is a compliment as far as I’m concerned.

Staff
Member
14 years ago

Ben,

Having gone to school here my whole life, I have to say that being a local is all relative;>

Okay, I couldn’t resist the pun but it is true partially that even if you went to school here you have to know the culture and that takes relatives that have been here. Or, in your case, a deep study of us native types. A study deep enough to know that the sainted Blackie Adams was not a saint of the usual caliber but, he was/is beloved. If you know that, then you’re a local.

Staff
Member
14 years ago

Ben,

Having gone to school here my whole life, I have to say that being a local is all relative;>

Okay, I couldn’t resist the pun but it is true partially that even if you went to school here you have to know the culture and that takes relatives that have been here. Or, in your case, a deep study of us native types. A study deep enough to know that the sainted Blackie Adams was not a saint of the usual caliber but, he was/is beloved. If you know that, then you’re a local.

AARP(y)
Guest
AARP(y)
14 years ago

The area has a long history of xenophobia. The Chinese were run out of the county after building us some great roads. How many remember that the Hartsook got burned down for hiring Chinese help? Or Briceland local Alden Briceland getting burned to death for being differerent at the Bucket of Blood at 4 Corners? Who remembers that the first lifeguard at Redway beach had strict instructions not to allow people of color, or Jews to enjoy the beach? Do people remember Sammy McCush for his amazing road maintenance career and heroism during the ’64 flood, or for his differentness?
Good thing these oldtime families had us newcomers come along to teach ’em some tolerance, and as a result now we can all blog together as one happy family. Wink,wink.

AARP(y)
Guest
AARP(y)
14 years ago

The area has a long history of xenophobia. The Chinese were run out of the county after building us some great roads. How many remember that the Hartsook got burned down for hiring Chinese help? Or Briceland local Alden Briceland getting burned to death for being differerent at the Bucket of Blood at 4 Corners? Who remembers that the first lifeguard at Redway beach had strict instructions not to allow people of color, or Jews to enjoy the beach? Do people remember Sammy McCush for his amazing road maintenance career and heroism during the ’64 flood, or for his differentness?
Good thing these oldtime families had us newcomers come along to teach ’em some tolerance, and as a result now we can all blog together as one happy family. Wink,wink.

Staff
Member
14 years ago

Gosh darn it, will you stop trampling on my rosy glasses!

In all fairness, I’ll bet every area has its xenophobia. Too me, it seemed like the back-to-the-landers were able to get such a strong presence here in part because of a certain belief in leaving other folk alone as long as they weren’t trampling on you.

Not to minimize the horrible incidents you point out (and there are lots more) still as a whole, this county has a strong feeling of live and let live that promotes independence and encourages characters to live here.

Staff
Member
14 years ago

Gosh darn it, will you stop trampling on my rosy glasses!

In all fairness, I’ll bet every area has its xenophobia. Too me, it seemed like the back-to-the-landers were able to get such a strong presence here in part because of a certain belief in leaving other folk alone as long as they weren’t trampling on you.

Not to minimize the horrible incidents you point out (and there are lots more) still as a whole, this county has a strong feeling of live and let live that promotes independence and encourages characters to live here.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago

Anyone remember the first black man that moved into Fortuna, set up a small business and was then forced to move. Ended up living near the Forest of Arden south of Miranda and was burned out?

Ben
Guest
Ben
14 years ago
Reply to  Joe Blow

The story that the chimney standing south of the old Forest of Arden is the remains of a place owned by a black shoemaker who was burned out by locals is one I heard over 30 years ago. In fact, the place was built by the Baker family, a Eureka photographer who later moved to Hawaii. The cabin was 2 stories and is pictured on the HSU Library site in the Swanlund- Baker photo collection. That does not mean bad stuff didn’t happen. As I recall the old church at Briceland was burned when a black hippie moved in in the 70s.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago

Anyone remember the first black man that moved into Fortuna, set up a small business and was then forced to move. Ended up living near the Forest of Arden south of Miranda and was burned out?

Ben
Guest
Ben
14 years ago
Reply to  Joe Blow

The story that the chimney standing south of the old Forest of Arden is the remains of a place owned by a black shoemaker who was burned out by locals is one I heard over 30 years ago. In fact, the place was built by the Baker family, a Eureka photographer who later moved to Hawaii. The cabin was 2 stories and is pictured on the HSU Library site in the Swanlund- Baker photo collection. That does not mean bad stuff didn’t happen. As I recall the old church at Briceland was burned when a black hippie moved in in the 70s.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago

Sorry, more trampling. I forgot to mention the class of newcomers that came in with my generation and right afterwards. They were all from southern CA (San Francisco south) that came in and bought up all the logged off land, but didn’t have enough money to do much more than camp on that land. So, they grew a new crop, faster growing, easier to harvest and far more lucrative – unfortunately highly illegal. I didn’t much like the change they brought either. For one thing, that’s when loggers had to start carrying weapons. The honorable profession of harvesting timber as a way of life was lost to a new generation looking to introduce a new way of living off the land. Whether anyone liked it or not, this new breed brought change that ran deep into the roots of society. We can readily see what resisting that change has led to.

It led to the preemptive occupation and usage of land and rescources that did not belong to them. It led to the loss of water or contaminated water supply, gardens proliferating on other people’s property, with more contamination and residual garbage, destruction of real property, and THREAT. Threat of encountering armed people on your own property defending their takeover, threat that if they even thought you might have reported their garden to the authorities they would burn you out. So, by coerced intimidation the “old-timer” population turned a blind eye and made a truce with these lawless people. The corruption runs deep. Yeah, “a strong feeling of live and let live.”

By the way, no one ever walked up to me and called me and “okie” or and “arkie.” The term was equal to disparaging someone’s mother or using the “N” word regardless of whether or not you were a longtime Humboldt resident or a recent displaced reject direct from the Ozarks, whether they be from Washington or South Carolina. Or later by way of Souther California.

Staff
Member
14 years ago

Joe, you enjoyed that way too much. Trampling on rosy glasses with that much joy in your heart should be illegal.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago
Reply to  Staff

Thanks, it seems I’ve been accused of that before. On a more serious note, you do and can generate some interesting blog conversations when you want.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  Joe Blow

Thank you. That is my goal. Those who comment add at least as much as the original post.

Staff
Member
14 years ago

Joe, you enjoyed that way too much. Trampling on rosy glasses with that much joy in your heart should be illegal.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago
Reply to  Staff

Thanks, it seems I’ve been accused of that before. On a more serious note, you do and can generate some interesting blog conversations when you want.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  Joe Blow

Thank you. That is my goal. Those who comment add at least as much as the original post.

James
Guest
James
14 years ago

As a transplant from Michigan via the SF Bay Area, I’ve found that people are people were ever you go. We humans seem quick to segregate ourselves into groups to oppose the “other” while claiming my town, school, lineage, or whatever is better than your town, school, lineage, or whatever. For me, the best practice has been to treat people with respect without regard of personal beliefs, which always seem to find contradictions with each other. In short, I don’t have to agree with you or like you, but, if we are going to coexist on this rock together, I do need to learn to respect you.

Thanks for the cookies!
(20 yrs in Humboldt and counting)

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  James

Well said!

James
Guest
James
14 years ago

As a transplant from Michigan via the SF Bay Area, I’ve found that people are people were ever you go. We humans seem quick to segregate ourselves into groups to oppose the “other” while claiming my town, school, lineage, or whatever is better than your town, school, lineage, or whatever. For me, the best practice has been to treat people with respect without regard of personal beliefs, which always seem to find contradictions with each other. In short, I don’t have to agree with you or like you, but, if we are going to coexist on this rock together, I do need to learn to respect you.

Thanks for the cookies!
(20 yrs in Humboldt and counting)

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  James

Well said!

earthmother
Guest
earthmother
14 years ago

Wow. Just found this blog and other great stuff Kym has written. Such a fan I am!

I went to SFHS ever so long ago, but I’ve been away for many years. I now live in a spot on the globe that’s very different from where I grew up in many, many ways–at the crossroads of Cathey Road–and I’ve embraced it. My roots are still interwoven with my beloved redwoods, though. Reading this blog I realize I’m not really part of Humboldt anymore, I don’t partake of the mj culture anymore, but Kym is still my friend…and I *would* like a cookie : )

Does the spirit of acceptance extend to people like me, who were once immersed in the spirit of the place (albeit in an immature, teenage sort of way), but who now just keep those formative memories behind a special warmish-green sun-shot door of the psyche…?

It’s okay if not. I know you can’t truly belong everywhere and I know what Thomas Wolfe said. Just askin’, though.

Thanks for listening. Sneaking out quietly now…

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  earthmother

Ah, once a Humboldter, always a Humboldter–I think anyone who spends a May here loses a corner of their heart to the place. Besides, I have very fond memories of you playing Stairway to Heaven sitting in the middle of a creek not far from Briceland with your long hair hanging over your guitar and your bare feet in the water–now if that isn’t a part of Humboldt, I don’t know what is.

earthmother
Guest
earthmother
14 years ago

Wow. Just found this blog and other great stuff Kym has written. Such a fan I am!

I went to SFHS ever so long ago, but I’ve been away for many years. I now live in a spot on the globe that’s very different from where I grew up in many, many ways–at the crossroads of Cathey Road–and I’ve embraced it. My roots are still interwoven with my beloved redwoods, though. Reading this blog I realize I’m not really part of Humboldt anymore, I don’t partake of the mj culture anymore, but Kym is still my friend…and I *would* like a cookie : )

Does the spirit of acceptance extend to people like me, who were once immersed in the spirit of the place (albeit in an immature, teenage sort of way), but who now just keep those formative memories behind a special warmish-green sun-shot door of the psyche…?

It’s okay if not. I know you can’t truly belong everywhere and I know what Thomas Wolfe said. Just askin’, though.

Thanks for listening. Sneaking out quietly now…

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  earthmother

Ah, once a Humboldter, always a Humboldter–I think anyone who spends a May here loses a corner of their heart to the place. Besides, I have very fond memories of you playing Stairway to Heaven sitting in the middle of a creek not far from Briceland with your long hair hanging over your guitar and your bare feet in the water–now if that isn’t a part of Humboldt, I don’t know what is.

AARP(y)
Guest
AARP(y)
14 years ago

Ok, maybe I owe you some new lenses…what shade would you like?

AARP(y)
Guest
AARP(y)
14 years ago

Ok, maybe I owe you some new lenses…what shade would you like?

Staff
Member
14 years ago

Can’t I still have rosy lenses?

AARP(y)
Guest
AARP(y)
14 years ago
Reply to  Staff

Of course. I started out with rose tint but I guess mine wore off with age.
Didn’t mean to tromp so, the behavior of locals, new and old, old new and new old, toward each other has spanned the full human range of very bad to great cooperation, with a whole lot in the mostly tolerant middle.
I love our potpourri of types here and am amazed how well folks live and let live, whether by good intention, practicality, or simply because of all the locked gates isolating us.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  AARP(y)

I think having a few acres in between neighbors helps make us all more tolerant;>

AARP(y)
Guest
AARP(y)
14 years ago
Reply to  Staff

Yes, and I don’t mean to imply that locked gates means people aren’t there for each other as I know of many very helpful to each other areas that are full of gates. Who doesn’t have a gate.

Staff
Member
14 years ago

Can’t I still have rosy lenses?

AARP(y)
Guest
AARP(y)
14 years ago
Reply to  Staff

Of course. I started out with rose tint but I guess mine wore off with age.
Didn’t mean to tromp so, the behavior of locals, new and old, old new and new old, toward each other has spanned the full human range of very bad to great cooperation, with a whole lot in the mostly tolerant middle.
I love our potpourri of types here and am amazed how well folks live and let live, whether by good intention, practicality, or simply because of all the locked gates isolating us.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  AARP(y)

I think having a few acres in between neighbors helps make us all more tolerant;>

AARP(y)
Guest
AARP(y)
14 years ago
Reply to  Staff

Yes, and I don’t mean to imply that locked gates means people aren’t there for each other as I know of many very helpful to each other areas that are full of gates. Who doesn’t have a gate.

MJEAN
Guest
MJEAN
14 years ago

I moved to Humboldt County in June 1958, graduated from Arcata High School in 1959, and married a wonderful young man, with roots in Humboldt and Mendocino county going back 3 generations. We left Humboldt for a couple of years and returned and settled in Southern Humboldt. I knew when we arrived I never wanted to leave this beautiful place.
Am I an old-timer? I like to think that I am, although there are many wonderful residents of this area that stretch back much farther than I have been here. Some of the very best have left us but what great memories I have of people like Walt Benbow, Miss Mickie and Harry Nunnemaker, Fred Hurlbutt, Wally Nichols, Chick Metcalf, Ivan Tozier, Francis Duncan, John Duncan, Tom Dimmick and Bill and Marion Brown, and just recently, Rose Lindley Denzer, and so many others.
This community was better because of them and, hopefully, those of us who have picked up the slack will leave a legacy that will be remembered with a positive slant by those who follow after us.
I have been fortunate, and still am, to have my feet firmly planted in many areas of this community. I love the ‘really old-timers’ with memories stretching back when they were the center of the logging and fishing industry. Some of my very favorite people are the back to landers who arrived in the ’70s with their ideas of changing the world and bringing peace to everyone. Then there are the small children, who entered my life through our interaction at the school, who are now grown and parents or even grandparents. Many have moved away, found homes in the big cities, traveled the world, but continue to come back to say hello.
I’m sure there are other small communities with the same unique structure, but, this is my community and I love it.

Shauna
Guest
Shauna
13 years ago
Reply to  MJEAN

My grandparents are Marion and Bill Brown. I have been looking for information on them and was really excited to see them mentioned here.

Staff
Member
13 years ago
Reply to  Shauna

Shauna,
I grew up next to the Browns. They had this small ragged mop dog who was the father of some of my dog’s pups. I went to school with Darren and Debbie Brown. And I still rely on Darren for a lot of information and sporting good stuff.

MJEAN
Guest
MJEAN
14 years ago

I moved to Humboldt County in June 1958, graduated from Arcata High School in 1959, and married a wonderful young man, with roots in Humboldt and Mendocino county going back 3 generations. We left Humboldt for a couple of years and returned and settled in Southern Humboldt. I knew when we arrived I never wanted to leave this beautiful place.
Am I an old-timer? I like to think that I am, although there are many wonderful residents of this area that stretch back much farther than I have been here. Some of the very best have left us but what great memories I have of people like Walt Benbow, Miss Mickie and Harry Nunnemaker, Fred Hurlbutt, Wally Nichols, Chick Metcalf, Ivan Tozier, Francis Duncan, John Duncan, Tom Dimmick and Bill and Marion Brown, and just recently, Rose Lindley Denzer, and so many others.
This community was better because of them and, hopefully, those of us who have picked up the slack will leave a legacy that will be remembered with a positive slant by those who follow after us.
I have been fortunate, and still am, to have my feet firmly planted in many areas of this community. I love the ‘really old-timers’ with memories stretching back when they were the center of the logging and fishing industry. Some of my very favorite people are the back to landers who arrived in the ’70s with their ideas of changing the world and bringing peace to everyone. Then there are the small children, who entered my life through our interaction at the school, who are now grown and parents or even grandparents. Many have moved away, found homes in the big cities, traveled the world, but continue to come back to say hello.
I’m sure there are other small communities with the same unique structure, but, this is my community and I love it.

Shauna
Guest
Shauna
13 years ago
Reply to  MJEAN

My grandparents are Marion and Bill Brown. I have been looking for information on them and was really excited to see them mentioned here.

Staff
Member
13 years ago
Reply to  Shauna

Shauna,
I grew up next to the Browns. They had this small ragged mop dog who was the father of some of my dog’s pups. I went to school with Darren and Debbie Brown. And I still rely on Darren for a lot of information and sporting good stuff.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago

So, what happened to that “70’s” generation and all their high asperations, “ideas of changing the world and bringing peace to everyone”? Apparently, their program to go back to the land didn’t work. I don’t see our community, Humboldt County, self-sustaining as any consequence.

random guy
Guest
random guy
13 years ago
Reply to  Joe Blow

That’s a point I try time and again to make…I don’t know what to make of what I see either. If today is going to be like what 1960-2010 was/is for the baby-boomers, we’re FUCKED…it can’t be said with any less emphasis…WE’RE SOOOO SCREWED, WE ARE ALREADY HUMAN CATTLE…and there’s no comparative signs whatsoever that any facet of life sustenance is improving, only getting worse. All my peers were in grade school in the early 80’s learning about how important it was to recycle, how pollution was killing everything, nutrition was a huge deal…BUT that there was unquestionable hope, especially by the magical year 2000, that we would all be on some path to a golden utopia soon. Anybody who was saying it was all bullshit was essentially told to shut up and smile…”do something positive instead”…just like today…

Look up “positive psychology” as the new mode adopted by the corporate/media/government to squelch dissent toward the never-changing status quo. “Positive psychology” revamped marketing and…literally…social behavior modification within the growing first world. New avenues of it continue to be incorporated into our everyday lives. Among things like dodging real problems, it makes people blame eachother, the victims.

It’s not just A reality, it’s THE reality. Put a positive spin on it if that’s what it takes to get you through the day, but sheesh face the facts.

But I’m sure I disagree with Joe Blow about things like the communes of the 70’s, flower children etc….they were in no uncertain terms hammered down BY the problems of popular propoganda, not in themselves a failure of any kind, let alone effort. There’s no reason their models couldn’t have been improved upon over time in larger scale rather than being intentionally eradicated by Reagan and politics and commercialism and bla bla bla.

Mr. Nice
Guest
Mr. Nice
13 years ago
Reply to  random guy

Ain’t all your fault for feeling negative.

Google 5-hydroxytryptamine transport. For serious, check it right quick. Folks are born to be miserable bastards. No kinna positive vibrations is about to undo genetic shit.

All type of folks got Weltschmerz going. They feel like whatever is happening in the world is strictly balanced all on the fucked up side. I can’t blame their ass if they were born that way.

Me, I embrace fucked up and beautiful shit equally. Ghetto type of shit makes me happy because there is a beauty in poverty and destruction if you ask me. The simple wilderness up here is great too from the Redwoods down to the chopped down, screwed up grasslands. Even the meth head trip to cliff dump sites are kinna sweet with all them cars piled up and empty sudafed packs and burned out stoves and shit.

Maybe my serotonin runs on overdrive I dunno wtf

random guy
Guest
random guy
13 years ago
Reply to  Mr. Nice

it’s not a good or bad call, like the sunrise isn’t good or bad…it’s what it is, regardless of whether you look forward to the day or not. The fact that gridlock traffic full of single car drivers all along california won’t end within a year or two or three isn’t a positive or negative call, it is what it is. But there’s a reason that everybody knows it’s negative. You could spin it and say something else instead, like “more single car drivers stuck in gridlock traffic every day are volunteering at homeless shelters” but that’s beside the point of what’s killing everybody and forcing the herds.

Seratonin, shmeratonin…I’m a very positive person and believe people are born good and positive, but we can’t escape our environment and the very real negative vibrations caused by very real and very sinister manipulation of the masses. If I’m going to spend a fraction of my day reading and writing something on the internet, I can’t just fluff off about something good that’s already gooding gooder…I do that enough in “real life” and there’s enough of that going around. The bad shit might be out of sight and out of mind, but not out of reality. There’s loads of “shoulds” in this and all blog’s articles…we SHOULD collectively recognize a “negative” for what it is. If the “positive” isn’t about accepting and continuing to deal with the “negative” then it’s “denial”.

suzy blah blah
Guest
suzy blah blah
13 years ago
Reply to  random guy

Don’t worry about the world coming to an end today. It’s already tomorrow in Australia.

random guy
Guest
random guy
13 years ago
Reply to  suzy blah blah

Only in today’s world would somebody NOT dream of being a pot farmer in….australia?!? Either we’re being fed a line of bullshit about what the big picture really is, or my senses are duh-seebing me and everybody I aks about tit.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago

So, what happened to that “70’s” generation and all their high asperations, “ideas of changing the world and bringing peace to everyone”? Apparently, their program to go back to the land didn’t work. I don’t see our community, Humboldt County, self-sustaining as any consequence.

random guy
Guest
random guy
13 years ago
Reply to  Joe Blow

That’s a point I try time and again to make…I don’t know what to make of what I see either. If today is going to be like what 1960-2010 was/is for the baby-boomers, we’re FUCKED…it can’t be said with any less emphasis…WE’RE SOOOO SCREWED, WE ARE ALREADY HUMAN CATTLE…and there’s no comparative signs whatsoever that any facet of life sustenance is improving, only getting worse. All my peers were in grade school in the early 80’s learning about how important it was to recycle, how pollution was killing everything, nutrition was a huge deal…BUT that there was unquestionable hope, especially by the magical year 2000, that we would all be on some path to a golden utopia soon. Anybody who was saying it was all bullshit was essentially told to shut up and smile…”do something positive instead”…just like today…

Look up “positive psychology” as the new mode adopted by the corporate/media/government to squelch dissent toward the never-changing status quo. “Positive psychology” revamped marketing and…literally…social behavior modification within the growing first world. New avenues of it continue to be incorporated into our everyday lives. Among things like dodging real problems, it makes people blame eachother, the victims.

It’s not just A reality, it’s THE reality. Put a positive spin on it if that’s what it takes to get you through the day, but sheesh face the facts.

But I’m sure I disagree with Joe Blow about things like the communes of the 70’s, flower children etc….they were in no uncertain terms hammered down BY the problems of popular propoganda, not in themselves a failure of any kind, let alone effort. There’s no reason their models couldn’t have been improved upon over time in larger scale rather than being intentionally eradicated by Reagan and politics and commercialism and bla bla bla.

Mr. Nice
Guest
Mr. Nice
13 years ago
Reply to  random guy

Ain’t all your fault for feeling negative.

Google 5-hydroxytryptamine transport. For serious, check it right quick. Folks are born to be miserable bastards. No kinna positive vibrations is about to undo genetic shit.

All type of folks got Weltschmerz going. They feel like whatever is happening in the world is strictly balanced all on the fucked up side. I can’t blame their ass if they were born that way.

Me, I embrace fucked up and beautiful shit equally. Ghetto type of shit makes me happy because there is a beauty in poverty and destruction if you ask me. The simple wilderness up here is great too from the Redwoods down to the chopped down, screwed up grasslands. Even the meth head trip to cliff dump sites are kinna sweet with all them cars piled up and empty sudafed packs and burned out stoves and shit.

Maybe my serotonin runs on overdrive I dunno wtf

random guy
Guest
random guy
13 years ago
Reply to  Mr. Nice

it’s not a good or bad call, like the sunrise isn’t good or bad…it’s what it is, regardless of whether you look forward to the day or not. The fact that gridlock traffic full of single car drivers all along california won’t end within a year or two or three isn’t a positive or negative call, it is what it is. But there’s a reason that everybody knows it’s negative. You could spin it and say something else instead, like “more single car drivers stuck in gridlock traffic every day are volunteering at homeless shelters” but that’s beside the point of what’s killing everybody and forcing the herds.

Seratonin, shmeratonin…I’m a very positive person and believe people are born good and positive, but we can’t escape our environment and the very real negative vibrations caused by very real and very sinister manipulation of the masses. If I’m going to spend a fraction of my day reading and writing something on the internet, I can’t just fluff off about something good that’s already gooding gooder…I do that enough in “real life” and there’s enough of that going around. The bad shit might be out of sight and out of mind, but not out of reality. There’s loads of “shoulds” in this and all blog’s articles…we SHOULD collectively recognize a “negative” for what it is. If the “positive” isn’t about accepting and continuing to deal with the “negative” then it’s “denial”.

suzy blah blah
Guest
suzy blah blah
13 years ago
Reply to  random guy

Don’t worry about the world coming to an end today. It’s already tomorrow in Australia.

random guy
Guest
random guy
13 years ago
Reply to  suzy blah blah

Only in today’s world would somebody NOT dream of being a pot farmer in….australia?!? Either we’re being fed a line of bullshit about what the big picture really is, or my senses are duh-seebing me and everybody I aks about tit.

AARP(y)
Guest
AARP(y)
14 years ago

As`per`a´tion
n. 1. The act of asperating; a making or becoming rough

Jinks
Guest
Jinks
14 years ago
Reply to  AARP(y)

So, what’s your point?

James
Guest
James
14 years ago
Reply to  Jinks

Some people are just caught in the chronic cultural loop of blinding prejudice as a result of someone’s use of words. J Blow’s previous post used the word asperations, when aspirations is what, I believe, Joe meant to use. This seems to be a common affliction of people with low self esteem and a need to elevate their perception of themselves by acting aggressively towards their perceived inadequacies of others.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  James

Casting aspersions on the comments of others is simply so much wasted hot air;> I enjoy arguments/discussions but would rather focus on substantive disagreements than on personal pokes.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago
Reply to  Staff

Kym said, “Casting aspersions on the comments of others is simply so much wasted hot air.” Maybe so, but it does serve its purpose, to change the subject and control the dialogue. When discussions, so-called arguments or substantive disagreements begin to deal with matters of mutual importance, perhaps threatening someone’s blind faith is a corrupt and failed system or the consequences of supporting such people, they immediately assault the messenger. What’s really foul in this whole dialogue is that certain Blog or Internet Trolls (Blogs and commentators) are granted the democratic right to personalize at will. They are the recognized and accepted “Thought Police.” They just move in and take control. Notice, if you will Kym, no one answered my questions.

James
Guest
James
14 years ago
Reply to  Joe Blow

Joe, I was under the impression your question was rhetorical and required no answer. On the the flip side, 40+ years later we are still talking about the subject. Maybe the 70s aspirations are not dead/ failed as you have suggested. Changes that come fast tend to be the result of trauma, and changes that creep in slowly tend to endure.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago
Reply to  James

James, perhaps it was a bit rhetorical considering the reality of the past 40+ years. They certainly did not bring peace to the World. Nor did they bring peace to Humboldt County. And if I had a point, it was that aspirations like talk is just so much worthless asperating wind blowing in the trees. My parents, growing up in the Depression and living through World War II had the same aspirations. I am reminded of the recorded statement: “They offer superficial treatments for my people’s mortal wound. They give assurances of peace when there is no peace.” Before anyone can do the works of peace, they must first become a man or a woman of peace. That transformation as a community certainly did not take place. I don’t think we have another 40+ years to realize that enduring reality. I know I don’t.

Going back to the land means to me that these people, as individuals and as a community, would become self-sufficient and self-sustaining. Such people tend to be more peaceful in their nature and makeup. If this was their goal, what happened to them? I know what happened to me.

AARP(y)
Guest
AARP(y)
14 years ago

As`per`a´tion
n. 1. The act of asperating; a making or becoming rough

Jinks
Guest
Jinks
14 years ago
Reply to  AARP(y)

So, what’s your point?

James
Guest
James
14 years ago
Reply to  Jinks

Some people are just caught in the chronic cultural loop of blinding prejudice as a result of someone’s use of words. J Blow’s previous post used the word asperations, when aspirations is what, I believe, Joe meant to use. This seems to be a common affliction of people with low self esteem and a need to elevate their perception of themselves by acting aggressively towards their perceived inadequacies of others.

Staff
Member
14 years ago
Reply to  James

Casting aspersions on the comments of others is simply so much wasted hot air;> I enjoy arguments/discussions but would rather focus on substantive disagreements than on personal pokes.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago
Reply to  Staff

Kym said, “Casting aspersions on the comments of others is simply so much wasted hot air.” Maybe so, but it does serve its purpose, to change the subject and control the dialogue. When discussions, so-called arguments or substantive disagreements begin to deal with matters of mutual importance, perhaps threatening someone’s blind faith is a corrupt and failed system or the consequences of supporting such people, they immediately assault the messenger. What’s really foul in this whole dialogue is that certain Blog or Internet Trolls (Blogs and commentators) are granted the democratic right to personalize at will. They are the recognized and accepted “Thought Police.” They just move in and take control. Notice, if you will Kym, no one answered my questions.

James
Guest
James
14 years ago
Reply to  Joe Blow

Joe, I was under the impression your question was rhetorical and required no answer. On the the flip side, 40+ years later we are still talking about the subject. Maybe the 70s aspirations are not dead/ failed as you have suggested. Changes that come fast tend to be the result of trauma, and changes that creep in slowly tend to endure.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago
Reply to  James

James, perhaps it was a bit rhetorical considering the reality of the past 40+ years. They certainly did not bring peace to the World. Nor did they bring peace to Humboldt County. And if I had a point, it was that aspirations like talk is just so much worthless asperating wind blowing in the trees. My parents, growing up in the Depression and living through World War II had the same aspirations. I am reminded of the recorded statement: “They offer superficial treatments for my people’s mortal wound. They give assurances of peace when there is no peace.” Before anyone can do the works of peace, they must first become a man or a woman of peace. That transformation as a community certainly did not take place. I don’t think we have another 40+ years to realize that enduring reality. I know I don’t.

Going back to the land means to me that these people, as individuals and as a community, would become self-sufficient and self-sustaining. Such people tend to be more peaceful in their nature and makeup. If this was their goal, what happened to them? I know what happened to me.

j2bad
Guest
14 years ago

At first, I thought it was a snarky critique of Joe Blow’s trenchant question/comment, but I think I was being ungenerous to AARP(y). Upon reflection, I think it’s much more playful and amusing – a Derridian, deconstructionist reading that highlights the inherent instability of language, spotlighting the multiple meanings implied by Joe Blow’s creative use of the homophones (and one that so nicely draws attention to his own handle, Joe BLOW) – Aspirations/asperations. High hopes, hot air, rabble rousing. Bravo to the both of you.

AARP(Y)
Guest
AARP(Y)
14 years ago
Reply to  j2bad

Thanks j2bad…I thought it was clever punning on Joe’s part….Sohum can be a little “rough” on the ideals.

j2bad
Guest
14 years ago

At first, I thought it was a snarky critique of Joe Blow’s trenchant question/comment, but I think I was being ungenerous to AARP(y). Upon reflection, I think it’s much more playful and amusing – a Derridian, deconstructionist reading that highlights the inherent instability of language, spotlighting the multiple meanings implied by Joe Blow’s creative use of the homophones (and one that so nicely draws attention to his own handle, Joe BLOW) – Aspirations/asperations. High hopes, hot air, rabble rousing. Bravo to the both of you.

AARP(Y)
Guest
AARP(Y)
14 years ago
Reply to  j2bad

Thanks j2bad…I thought it was clever punning on Joe’s part….Sohum can be a little “rough” on the ideals.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago

Well, finally. Someone that can actually think! Nice.
Joe BLOW just like Suzy, Blah, Blah — RIGHT?
Just to set the record straight, Joe Blow is the title of someone that is and always has been a rather insignificant NOBODY. But, thanks for the compliment and vote of confidence.

Joe Blow
Guest
14 years ago

Well, finally. Someone that can actually think! Nice.
Joe BLOW just like Suzy, Blah, Blah — RIGHT?
Just to set the record straight, Joe Blow is the title of someone that is and always has been a rather insignificant NOBODY. But, thanks for the compliment and vote of confidence.

Joe Blow
Guest
13 years ago

Some people would do well to simply speak for themselves, don’t you think?

Isn’t it amazing to see, more like hear, the loud cackling squawks of the Obfuscater trying to stupefy and trivialize anyone that’s trying to be serious? I had a father-in-law that would make a joke no matter what was being discussed. It took me awhile to figure out he was really telling everyone what a bunch of fools we were, in particular me. Why? Because while we thought we were dealing with issues, he was quietly dictating the terms. Once I figured that out and began dealing with his terms, he flat shut up.

He really didn’t like how he’d exposed who the REAL fool was, now that everyone was looking at him. Be nice to see a few of these blog hosts who are responsible for these types of conversations defend those commentator’s that deserve some decency and integrity from the host. Their glaring silence affirms their agreement with the ridiculer, etc.

What is it about nearly a year old conversation that self-resurrects?

Staff
Member
13 years ago
Reply to  Joe Blow

Actually, Joe, I had thought he was talking to me. I was surprised to see you take the comment to yourself.

Joe Blow
Guest
13 years ago
Reply to  Staff

You did, did you Kym? Now why would you do that? Is it any wonder why no one understands what other people say when they simply can’t follow their own logic? Before I explain what I mean, perhaps it would be good if you identified who this “he” is you are taking about that I answered?