Incorporating is just smart business’

By: John Chiv For the Times-Standard

Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016 - 10:10 p.m.

PHOTO BY JOHN CHIV — FOR THE TIMES-STANDARD Jacob Krumenacker and John Ford work at the North Coast Insurance & Business Center.

Two local businesses, the John Ford Insurance Agency and Krumenacker Industries, came together to form a joint venture, the North Coast Insurance & Business Center, that recently celebrated its first anniversary.

Each business is their own entity but they also have clients in common. Two of those clients include local photographer and graphic designer Mark McKenna and Ian Herndon, co-owner of Humboldt Boutique Gardens.

John Ford, a local real estate agent of 12 years, ventured into a new career four years ago as an insurance agent. As a broker for business, autos and home insurance since 2012, the John Ford Insurance Agency is currently one of three agencies in the area offering insurance for medical cannabis.

In December 2015, John Ford Insurance Agency relocated to 924 Fifth St. in Eureka. That office space is also shared by Krumenacker Industries.

Both indoor and outdoor grows are covered by the John Ford Insurance Agency. Just recently, one employee was added at the Eureka office and three agents hired in Concord. The John Ford Insurance Agency also serves the Santa Cruz area, as well as Mendocino, Del Norte and Trinity counties.

Jacob Krumenacker moved back to Humboldt County from San Diego in September 2015. He has lived here since 2007, left to go to San Diego.

Krumenacker is currently working on becoming a children's advocate attorney.

While in San Diego, Krumenacker worked for over 75 LLCs.

"My job was to make sure they stayed compliant," he said.

Krumenacker Industries is currently the "only office in Northern California offering insurance and incorporating businesses so they stay compliant," Krumenacker said.

"There is a misconception in Humboldt County that incorporating is for big businesses; incorporating is just smart business," he said. "When you incorporate, insurance drops 6 to 10 percent for your business. Attorneys charge ungodly fees to form a LLC. Small businesses would benefit from a year-round commitment to incorporate."

Krumenacker Industries does not charge extra to keep business compliant for the first year.

"Having a small business is a tremendous," Krumenacker said. "A lot of people are scared to start their own small business. There is an element of fear. If you have a dream, you need to follow it. The first year is the hardest; you may not succeed that first year."

Krumenacker Industries is Humboldt-focused, he said, because many small local businesses need the assistance and services offered.

"In Humboldt County everyone is walking to the finish line at the same time compared to San Diego, where everyone is walking over each other to the finish line," Krumenacker said.

A place I felt safe at, will it ever be the same again?

A 78 year old Catholic woman who volunteered for a Grass Valley Catholic church was brutally beaten and left for dead July 5, 2015 in an attempted murder and car jacking.

Details that were not in the news but shared through a facebook post on a Catholic group page from a church source said that the woman weighed less than 100 pounds;  she was beaten severely in the head and face; then picked up and tossed in the bushes were she lay unconscious for three hours until she was discovered.

http://m.kcra.com/news/72yearold-woman-injured-in-attack-at-grass-valley-church/34007226

Last June, two Arizona priests were shot dead in a botched burglary attempt and their car was stolen. The suspect was a former felon released two months earlier from prison living in a half way house.

http://www.cnn.com/2014/06/16/justice/arizona-church-shooting/

The night before he was released from Humboldt County Correctional Facility, the same night that minutes later, he went to St. Bernard’s Church and he brutally murdered and tortured Fr. Eric, tried to set the rectory on fire and stole his car, was not Gary Lee Bullock’s first encounter with the criminal justice system. He too was released  into the community, again. Unlike, the Grass Valley suspect and the Arizona suspect,  Bullock was not transient or living in a half way house. He was the only one on cameras documented entering and exiting the rectory. There is no doubt who killed Fr. Eric.

Gary Lee Bullock violated the sacred space of my church and brutally murdered my priest Fr. Eric January 1, 2014. Two months later, the rectory was broken into, again, by a former drug addict who walked down three blocks from a halfway house.  Later the same  year, a church door vandalized, which would have burned completely had the fire alarms not gone off.

During Christmas last year, someone stole a Christmas ornament specially made for Fr. Eric which was supposed to be given to his twin sister who has moved to Humboldt.

We have never had so many incidents in the Church in one year.

Mentally ill and confrontational transients are outside and inside my church daily. We still welcome everyone.

 On a Sundays and many others days, like this woman, I am alone opening up church. On the day, Fr. Eric’s body was later discovered, I had walked up the pathway to the church, alone.

Many churches, including ours, have volunteers and staff alone at times.

The police cannot do much about someone mentally ill or even loitering unless there is attack.

A place I felt safe at has never been the same again.

I don't cower in fear; lack of my personal safety does not consume my thoughts all the time. In fact you could not tell because faith and joy has not been extinguished by Bullock.

But this recent article and others have brought up the pain and devastation of January 1, 2014 again.

While criminals and the insane roam the streets of Eureka and other places terrorizing citizens, Bullock and others sit safe and warm and physically protected by brave men and women just doing their job. They are further shielded by legal rights and excuse after excuse made for them even when they feel no remorse and accept no responsibility. All this on tax payer dime after their decisions and weaknesses cause devastating consequences.

These church goers, our church, the congregation in South Carolina pray and forgive the very people who violate and hurt us.

Forgiveness is good. Faith is a great source of strength in coping with tragedy.

It should never be an excuse for society to overlook the rights and feelings of the innocent victims.

To come to a point of forgiveness for someone heinous is not easy, even if we make it look easy.

You will be remembered for your love and changing lives, not taking a life

On January 2014, in the dark of the night, a man with roots in Garberville, surprised a priest. He robbed, tortured and killed an innocent man. On May 18, 2013, in the still of the night, a suspect also with roots in Garberville, is accused of killing two innocent people.

Sometimes death looms, but these deaths were unexpected.  They shocked and horrified this local community. They made headlines. Only the people closest to the victims still feel the pain and for them, the memory of that moment when their lives changed forever is still as vivid as when it first happened.

I thought only those who knew Fr. Eric and knew me would understand my pain. Little did I know then, that months later, I would meet someone who understands how I feel without words being shared.

As the details of Fr. Eric’s death slowly started trickling in, as I sat in court for the preliminary hearing; for most people and the media it was information. For me, every detail, every photo, was like my heart being ripped out over and over. I remember clearly the first day I saw Christina’s mother, Tina.

I knew how I felt when I was in court. I just wanted to be alone before and after the court proceedings. I did not approach Mrs. Schwarz.  Then one day, we just looked at each other, we shared unspoken thoughts.
We do not talk about the case. We have in the last week or so talked about our grief, our joy, how we cope and other things that are private.

This case has affected me like no other. Fr. Eric was a Catholic Priest and many people stick to their stereotypes about Catholics and many people in this town on a daily basis denigrate anyone who believes in God. Even in a tragedy such as Fr. Eric’s death. What I remember most about Fr. Eric is that he wanted everyone to experience God’s love. The only love that is unconditional.

I focus on Fr. Eric’s life. His entire life, not just one moment.

As I sit every day covering the Bodhi Tree case, even though I did not know Christina and Sunshine, what is foremost in my mind is they are love. They brought joy and love to every one’s lives they touched.
Jesus said the two most important commandments are to love God with all your heart, mind and soul and to love thy neighbor.

Christina and Sunshine and many of the young people that lived in the Eye Street house followed those commandments more than many people who go to church daily. They helped each other and showed each other love. This was a house where some people struggled with addiction; others did not; some people resided there; some visited. It was a safe refuge.

These young people, many struggling with poverty, not caused by them, but by a narcissistic “me me” society where stepping over someone to be successful is okay, where a drug culture cares less about the person, only getting someone hooked.

I am not someone who could live in a commune. I used to have very strong feelings about addicts and addiction, even marijuana. Like some people who judge Catholics, I had my prejudices.

Not all Catholics are the same. Not everyone who smokes marijuana or struggles with addiction is the same. The young people who testified in this case have some values we could use more of in today’s society: protecting women from sexual predators, taking in someone homeless, caring for each other when you are in the midst of adversity.

We have a criminal justice system that will vigorously defend two suspects, feel sympathy for two people that had choices; they chose to indulge in drugs and alcohol and they chose not to seek help. What about those who are trying to change their lives? What about those innocent lives that just happened to be in the way of someone who lost control?

Regardless of the decision of the criminal system process, the victory will be Fr. Eric’s, Christina’s and Sunshine’s. You will be remembered for your love and changing lives, not taking a life.

Times-Printing to relocate to former Eureka Printing location and launch of a new and improved website

Humboldt County's oldest printing company is expanding and will be relocating to a bigger building. Times Printing is a fourth-generation family owned and operated business serving the region since 1854. By April, Times Printing will move their offices and presses from their location in Old Town to 106 T St., the former home of Eureka Printing.

This is more than just a physical move for the company. In November 2012, Eureka Printing owner Jerry Carter was set to retire and there was no succession plan. Through informal talks in the printing community, Times Printing owners Lane and Susan Strope, and their son Seth Strope, purchased Eureka Printing. In October 2011, for similar reasons, Times Printing acquired Artcraft Printers.

”Both Eureka Printing and Artcraft Printers were cornerstones in the local printing community, and we could not allow the loss of either company's history or the legacy that they had created, “ said Seth Strope.

With the move, Times Printing is pleased to announce they will be adding at least two new jobs and possibly more new employees in the next year. Longtime Eureka Printing employee Richard Hardin was retained by Times Printing in the acquisition.

Times Printing has also launched a new website. The website allows clients to log in and see their order history, place orders online, manage their uploaded files and access a written history of the company. Other offerings include a detailed list of products and services and the ability to request free estimates and consultations about printing projects.

Recently, Times Printing began doing 3D Printing, creating prototypes and custom pieces for local manufacturers. Times Printing Marketing Director Lynn Dugaw said that the company's next endeavor is a plan to return to its roots and get back into letterpress printing. Letterpress printing, last popular in the 19th century, is crisper than other types of printing, and is excellent for creating fine typography.

Clients can contact the company with any questions about the company's growth, the move to the new location, the new website or about products and services by calling 707-442-5741. The website is www.timesprinting.com.

Facts missing in Harry Blumenthal's My Word

Harry Blumenthal’s My Word on 12/26/12, “Plight of homeless cannot be ignored”, makes good hyperbole but short on facts. His statement that “There was not a peep of concern from the (Eureka) City Council or the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors” regarding the homeless is his opinion which does not seem to be based on any fact checking or effort to find out the truth.

His singling out Eureka City Council while ignoring any reference to Arcata shows a bias. Was it not cold in Arcata? And are the homeless only in Eureka?

Anyone who attends or watches the Board of Supervisor and Eureka City Council meetings knows that the City of Eureka does indeed offer emergency shelter options in winter. There is the Rescue Mission for one and during the winter months, the Eureka Rescue Mission Men's Shelter does not use the alcohol breathalyzer so services depend on how much room they have for the night. They have used every available space in the facility in the winter; even the St. Vincent facility. Religious services are optional not mandatory. Despite these facts, misinformation continues to be and spoken.

The County offers many services like vouchers. The City of Eureka offers services by partnering with private and non-profit organizations. Mr. Blumenthal would know about more services if he talked to Pamlyn Millsap, EPD liaison to the homeless community or by talking to Fox Olson who is the co-chair of the Humboldt Housing and Homelessness Coalition.

The City and the Eureka Chamber of Commerce have given funds to individuals and non-profits working with the homeless. The fact that Mr. Blumenthal selectively choses to focus on certain individuals on Eureka City Council and the Board of Supervisors shows his bias.

The word homeless has many definitions and many circumstances. You can be couch surfing, living with friends, waiting for housing to come through or literally be on the streets. There are landlords who work with people to make payments and who offer people payment options to keep them off the streets. There are business owners who privately and quietly donate to many organizations trying to help the less unfortunate.

Mr. Blumenthal wants to help “these people” but with other people’s money, whether it be the rich or the government. If he really understands their plight, perhaps he could get involved on the state and local level to get rid of bureaucratic red tape and laws that prevent people from moving out of poverty into independence. Or attend any of the above meetings with a donation that may ease the suffering of someone, for a day or month.

The tired old charge that certain officials are funded by the wealthy could be leveled against any official. To sensationalize the death of an individual while taking cheap political shots is not helping the homeless. Mr. Blumenthal can start taking responsibility by educating himself on Eureka services before he calls anyone else out on their lack of action.

Christian-bashing doesn't help

Regarding “Is Christian religious bigotry alive and well in Humboldt County?” (Times-Standard, Dec. 4, Page A4), my answer is yes. But not in the sense expressed by David Blodgett. Times-Standard prints one Christian column and has a Faith section once a week but that is too much according to the same frequent Christian bashers who fill the opinion pages. Any Christian expression or anything positive about Christianity elicits letters bashing Christianity.

In Humboldt's version of the land of the free, Christian bashing is OK but any other form of hate is not. Mr. Blodgett, is your opinion about the Rescue Mission only based on a Web statement? I would advise you to research the complex views and history of what someone homeless goes through here and who helps them. In several op-eds, I have asked people who have criticized Teen Challenge, Betty Chinn or the Rescue Mission to take someone homeless to their house, provide them food and support and be there for them no matter how long it takes.

Not one taker.

 The Rescue Mission is the only place some people have to go at night. Asking people to be clean and sober and listen to the Gospel is not forcing someone to believe anything. The Gospel has a message of hope for the poor and the focus should be on the values of the people who operate the Rescue Mission, not an opportunity for religious bashing.

Talk is cheap, show me real action and solutions. While Christians are not the only ones helping those less fortunate, consistent help provided to those struggling without basic services has been provided by the three organizations mentioned above which happen to be run by Christian people. Teen Challenge and the Rescue Mission are funded privately with no money from the city. The Betty Chinn Day Center has received some city funds but is mostly privately funded. There is no religious requirement to get help from Betty.

Mr. Blodgett and anyone else who uses the freedom of religion argument has the option to go out, fundraise and start their own shelter and if they discriminate against Christians, I will remind them of freedom of religion. If you want to use the separation of church and state argument, don't cherry pick the part that suits you. The phrase is “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; ...”

I do not speak for the any of the above organizations but I am involved in the community and actually take time to talk to people struggling and know their story. The Rescue Mission helps people who stay for the night and then either leave and also helps some people who stay the night and then go out and contribute to cleaning up Old Town for free. For years Betty Chinn has helped anyone that needed it and even with the Day Center now, she will do the same. The Day Center also is a place that will help people access services and get on their feet. Teen Challenge provides assistance and people successfully overcome alcohol and drug addiction. All in Teen Challenge work and give back so others can benefit.

Some people chose to stay in their circumstances. I bring this up because there are individuals who were offered a job, a place to stay and to leave the Rescue Mission, at least two of them by me. They chose not to; one believed in Christ, the other did not.

Instead of taking every opportunity to denigrate a particular religion, use your time to make a change in someone's life for the better.

 

How to tell you are not a Humboldt Native

How to tell you are not a Humboldt native? Other than the obvious when your family has not been here for multiple generations, it is the ability to instantly know what certain words mean.

Anywhere else, you say trimmer and people's first thought usually would be an implement used for trimming off the unwanted or untidy parts of something. Anywhere else you say bud, people may think a cold beer or flower yet unopened. Here, we know what that means. Same goes for weed, pot, grower, hill. All these words have other meanings, but here in Humboldt these words have obvious associations.

Anywhere else, an unemployed plumber or electrician means someone looking for work. Here it means wads of cash in your pocket, untaxed; an obnoxious attitude and lame pickup lines.

When I moved here 10 years ago, I didn't get why the mall had a store full of shirts with 420 on them. It took me four years before I got clued in by someone. In the first couple years when I traveled to other parts of California and I told them where I was from, they would smirk and say, “Oh, you are from Humboldt.” And I would wonder what that meant; now I give a disclaimer. I had no idea of Humboldt's reputation before I moved here. That brings a look of disbelief until I explain to people that the friends who told me about this place talked about the weather, the art and culture, the small town feel, the fog, but they did not mention pot because that is not a factor in their lives or mine.

Believe it or not, there are people whose lives don't revolve around marijuana. We even envision an economy other than weed, and some of us, a very rare breed, are allergic to it. That usually either elicits laughter from people here or a retort, “Well, then you moved to the wrong county, dude.”

I realize for some people it is unthinkable that someone wouldn't wax poetic or get ecstatic about our local crop. Trust me, there is a whole universe out there, pot-free. Even in Humboldt where many people work, live, enjoy and boldly go where some Humboldtians have never gone before. And since we live in a free country, please respect my right and that of others to have our own beliefs.

I have been thinking of forming a pot-free Human Rights Group demanding our entitled pot-free zone, having some discrimination laws passed by the City Council and Board of Supervisors because I was not hired because I didn't have the right pot-i-tude.

Tolerance and respect work both ways.

I may not be cool in the Humboldt sense and I am OK with it. Humboldt has many things it could be known for; the next time I travel outside Humboldt, I hope people ask me about all those other things we take for granted.

I would rather get high on life, not escape it.

Never give up

One definition of compassion is deep awareness of the suffering of another coupled with the wish to relieve it. Enabling can either mean helping individuals to develop and grow, or approaches that are intended to help resolve a specific problem but instead exacerbate the original problem.

The opinion pages of the Times-Standard have had many opinions on homelessness. Like the opinions, the definition and suggested solutions vary according to the perspective of the person writing the op-ed.

A speaker at an event I attended last fall gave advice that when we want to be a part of solution or change, we should try to have that impact on a local level. I completely agree. It is very easy to feel helpless or powerless when we start thinking on a global or national scale. It is easy to direct anger at local officials when the issues that frustrate us are a result of a systemic breakdown of basic human values and political and financial leadership on a national level riddled with corruption and polarization.

Blaming either party, specific groups or someone else is the convenient way out. We no longer dialogue; we just accuse, shout and hope to convince someone else of our view. Civil conversation and results do not occur in a monologue.

Humboldt County has compassionate people. Some, though, are enablers.

Homelessness, drugs, crimes, lack of jobs and housing -- take your pick -- come from encouraging a victim mode and not holding someone personally responsible for any action. It is also a result of unadulterated greed. Statements such as all rich people, all corporations, all government, all growers, all developers, are made by people who ass-u-me and inflame.

Such statements solve nothing. Each situation, each individual, each circumstance is different. Today we live in a self-absorbed, narcissistic society that places more value on con men and those who give lip service. We don't reward talent, skill, hard work and those who don't play the game.

When we pay stars, sports players and reality TV wannabes more money than teachers and nurses, we need to look at our values. Many people don't speak up because to speak up is to suffer financially. I learned that lesson well in 50 years. Imagine if I had a spouse and family to support. I have no regrets.

Not once have I used any excuse or perceived characteristic as a reason for my struggles. There are days I feel discouraged and cranky and want to give up. I remember the words of someone I respect very much. He told me, “Never give up.” He also said, “You will be successful at whatever you do.” This is a man I respect who is self-made, I respect him and his financial success, but more than that, I respect him as a family man.

When you just value your life, your space, your needs, you see how the world needs to work only for you. We would make more progress if we looked at another human being, another stranger, another person also as our family.

Rewarding bad behavior gets expensive

Bravo to the Eureka City Council for unanimously passing the Hotel Lodging Permit Ordinance, which penalizes hotels or motels that misuse and city fire and police resources. Rewarding bad behavior is costly. It was a rare moment when City Council members and the public and staff were in unison on an issue.

Now if there was only a way to recognize local businesses that engage in good civic behavior and professional management and good customer service.

There is -- support those businesses. Money talks. Not filthy rich? No problem. Even your daily latte and coffee gives you a voice. Not proportionately, but you catch my drift.

There is one missing element certain people continue to ignore when we discuss problems that directly impact homelessness, affordable housing, lack of jobs, trashed city streets, empty storefronts. The same elephant in the room that no one talked about during the city council meeting: Substance abuse.

It was not necessary. We all know the underlying effects substance abuse has in every facet of our daily lives locally and the damage is financial and environmental. Yet why are certain people silent and continue to only blame local elected officials or the police or someone else to solve the problem and file frivolous lawsuits misdirecting anger at businesses and individuals that are not the problem.

This summer while having my favorite brew at a local pub, I joked with a friend that I was going to suggest a reality show for Humboldt. City Eye for the Humboldt Guy. It isn't an original idea and I was not being serious. However, if it gets used, I claim royalties!

My premise was dragging a grower out of the hills, getting a local salon to give him a haircut, beard trim or shave, put him in khakis and a button-down shirt, and taking away all his cash (and the errant credit card if he had one) and having him apply for a real job. To top it off, he would actually have to secure a date without those crumpled cash bills as an incentive.

With all that untaxed money, you would think some of these budding entrepreneurs would bother to look like they take a shower and dress better.

You know the guy I am talking about, the one that never had any talent or social skills to get a real job, one that does not have the college debt, the one you are better looking than except for the cash, the one who has a new girlfriend every day. Locally, with the famous underground economy, he is the preferred catch?

Looking around at the devastating effect substance abuse has had on this beautiful area, levity is all one can muster sometimes to stay sane and not be discouraged.

These days the message we are sending is that a man does not need to treat women well or be a good provider with a job that isn't related to getting people addicted? And women who chose these men whether they are dressed in suits or sweats aren't empowering themselves, they are settling for the weaker choice.

How many of you that have power or influence or are cool would have that status if you spoke out? Next time the street does not get swept, next time you complain about a rundown motel, next time your rent goes up because of someone who does not want to bother to take responsibility for their actions and expects society to enable their selfish “only me” attitude, look at what you contributed by your silence for decades.

To paraphrase JFK, “My fellow Humboldtians, ask not what your county can do for you, ask what you can do for your county.” Are you willing to give up the easy money and being popular to have a better life?

Free Day at the Sequoia Park Zoo

The animals at the Sequoia Park Zoo are very concerned about the free day at the zoo today. Usually these peace loving, chill creatures look forward to the visits by humans and bask in the “ooh and ahs” of children and adults. So why are they agitated? If they could send an urgent communiqué to the zoo board, they would, but the animal to human dictionary has not yet been created. If we could understand them, their thoughts might be something like the following. We are worried that if the free day leads to the zoo being packed to capacity, chaos is going to break out when others won't be allowed to enter due to the rules set by the fire marshal. Kazoos and drums may drown out the chirping and clacking of the pelicans. Why are these humans always complaining about something? The relationship between pelicans and people has been contentious. We have been persecuted because of our perceived competition with commercial and recreational fishers, according to the fountain of knowledge, Wikipedia. You don't see us forming a protest against the local fishermen? They call us wildlife, yet we seem to communicate and act better than some humans. We just monkey around in our space, we don't worry about the panda next door. And we are so grateful when the zoo keepers feed us. We accept that larger, stronger feed upon the smaller. If we don't get away fast enough, we accept we are dinner. We don't worry about sexual orientation or who is dating who, we just mate, reproduce, take care of our own and get them self-sufficient as soon as possible. No moving back into the cave as an adult. We should be the next models for Humboldt Made. We eat organic, natural and local cuisine, especially if we are out and free in nature. We don't need Porta Potties. And if we accidentally nibble on a cannabis plant, no jail time for us. Come to think of it, we should form a group of all indoor and domesticated wildlife being denied access to cannabis by our owners. Where is that animal psychic to interpret and convey our thoughts and lawyer defending our rights against human privilege? Sometimes in all the clamor, it does seem that gratitude is missing in our daily lives. The animals trust they will have their daily bread, they enjoy the simple joys of nature, they have no sense of entitlement, and they manage to co-exist accepting that in nature, life is not always fair.

Arrogance unchecked

A malady seems to be affecting certain Humboldt County citizens. I call it selective amnesia. And it is coupled with the side effect of attacking others instead of taking a look at one’s actions. The ultimate diagnosis: arrogance unchecked.

A recent example is the Dan Johnson controversy.  Raise your hands if you are sick of hearing about this local brouhaha. There is a valuable lesson to be learned by both sides.

Mr. Johnson, by now you must get what plagiarism is; perhaps you need to look at the definition of hubris. Your original apology would have been enough for most people. The reason this issue has become a mountain out of a molehill is because you chose not to respond to the original incident properly. When you finally did, you bragged about your contributions to the community and called others, “the self-appointed referees of good and evil”. You further added insult by saying, “But I'm comfortable in the knowledge that their intolerance, so readily on display, is a far more profound flaw than mine”.

At the recent board meeting when you were given a chance to correct the past mistakes with a proper apology which would have nullified any reason calling you to resign, you said, “There's nothing I could have said in that apology that would have been good enough for the haters. It's over. The board needs to move on.” The person who needs to move on is you. It is you who have dragged this issue out for months instead of giving a sincere apology. Your standing in the community does not entitle you to special privileges. You earn respect, Mr. Johnson, not demand it.

Some of your supporters should not be your PR advisers. Their advice has made you appear intolerant and insensitive to people who simply wanted you to say, I am sorry and mean it. 

Sometimes people get so entrenched in their egos and position. This coupled with personal issues make them lash out at others instead of admitting they made a mistake. Your apology and your resignation would have bolstered the belief of your friends and supporters who want people to see the Dan Johnson they know.

This controversy is embarrassing for the school district and your business. In a small community like ours, everything we do is under a microscope. Being human we all make mistakes. Sometimes those errors result in some people attacking us, gossiping about us, or lying about us. And the natural response is to defend yourself. It takes a strong man to know when to walk away and take the high road.  If you are being unfairly maligned, that action alone would speak volumes.

An elected official has to have a thick skin, especially in a small community. You are a self-made businessman that many respect in this community.

The people who have been disrespectful to you need to take equal responsibility because they took a honest mistake and blew it out of proportion. If Mr. Johnson apologizes from the heart, will you all do the same? If you still insist on his resignation after that, your actions are worse than a speech that didn’t get credited.

Business is always personal

Business is always personal. To conduct business, you need an interaction between yourself and other people.

Think of the successful business people you know and admire. People who enjoy helping others, people who want see others succeed, people who came up with an idea that had a positive impact in other’s lives. These entrepreneurs get that it is not all about the cash; it is about doing what you enjoy and leaving your stamp on the business world.

I feel fortunate to have known many business owners that exemplify the above. The ones I have the most respect for are those that dared when others told them it was impossible and those that taught me by their actions what success means.

I am especially grateful to those who did not always agree with me, people who called me out on behavior that stood in my way to grow and improve. Hearing the truth can be hard but not when it is done with love and constructively. When feedback is given and received and the ultimate result is building someone up and not tearing them down, you are in the presence of a leader who knows how to effectively manage and inspire.

 I have enjoyed every single job I have had. Whether it was in fast food, in an office, working with the CDC or at the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations but the time I put in volunteering are the jobs I loved.

All these jobs had 1 thing in common. People. Making a difference in someone’s life that made even a bigger difference in mine. I may not make as much money as I want, deserve or what others may think of being a financial success. As long as my basic needs are met, I have never focused on money being my goal. Even in recent years when it seems I am always in survival mode.

Would I change things if I could go back in time? No. Instead of money, I have received something more important; freedom to live my life on my terms, preserving my integrity, friends and people who believe in me and have stood by my side.

I don’t know in the eyes of the world, when I will reach that mark of success. What I do know is of all places I have lived, here in Eureka and Humboldt County, the successes I have achieved are not mine alone. I owe them to my friends here, my church community here, and the many local organizations and individuals who have through words, actions and emotional support helped me to get where I am.

People often ask me, why Eureka? You could live anywhere else. You would make more money somewhere else. It would be easier.

There is something very special about Eureka. I chose my business and to focus on local businesses because to make it here it takes a very determined person. We have some of the most innovative and internationally award winning businesses here. When I chose to work with or promote a business, it is all about sharing with people in and outside Humboldt, the person behind that business. That is the real story.

Which party sends us all an invitation?

Since last year's election, there has been discussion about the Republican party being fractured. These predictions come from media that lean left.

Is the Democrat party free of divisions? I was a freshman in college when the U.S. presidential election was between Ronald Reagan, a Republican, and Walter Mondale, a Democrat.

I had not joined any political party but the candidate that appealed to me was Ronald Reagan. When I graduated, I registered as a Democrat, identified as pro-choice and generally bought into the false stereotypes circulated about the Republican party. I was active in Philly politics and I passed up an opportunity of being elected as a Democratic ward leader when I found myself being drawn to Republican candidates. They would be considered moderate Republicans by today's standards; to me, they were Republicans.

I registered as independent for a long time and last year switched my registration to Republican. I didn't base my decision who to support on what national party won the election; I chose based on what candidate reflects core values I believe in and someone who cares about people they represent.

As a registered Republican, I have campaigned for and supported many moderate Democrats, as well as Republican and “decline to state” candidates on a local and state level. I do that because I feel these people, regardless of party affiliation, are candidates that want the best for Humboldt County and the state. I know most of the local bloggers, the majority of the media and some members of the local Democratic party may disagree with me, but that is because they don't want to admit what this no-growth, radical environmentalism and sole focus on social issues as a barometer for votes has done to the place we call home.

Certain local elected officials have been called derogatory names since the 2010 local election by some and their choice to identify as Democrats has been questioned by some; I believe that these candidates reflect a schism in the Democratic party that was lost to the radical left three decades ago.

Parties have different identities over time.

The Tea Party has an overall good economic message. Not all social conservatives are judgmental, but many in those factions have allowed their rigid social issue positions to hurt the Republican Party. A Republican can appeal and can win a national and a local election. So why have Democrats, who have practically wiped out the moderates in their party, had successes nationally and locally?

Our culture has reacted to greed and solely blamed it on corporations and the Republicans being the party of the rich. Government bureaucracy and NIMBY liberals should be held equally responsible, maybe even more so, for the plight of the poor and the working class. Social issues are what many people base their vote on today when it should be economics and quality of life.

Republicans see people as individuals and you are allowed to be outside the box as long as you share certain common values. Democrats cannot tolerate if you don't tow the radical, left-party line mentality. A Republican can be pro-choice or for same-sex marriage but the wrath of the Democratic party will be felt if a Democrat is pro-life or for traditional marriage or Christian. It is the radical Democrats that have outed gay Republicans and other conservatives just to prove a point.

In their opinion, such Republicans should be Democrats, and this is based on the color of skin and other criteria; I have yet to see Republicans hit below the belt in the same manner.

How many Democratic men are pro-choice because they really care about women, or is it for sex without responsibility? Have the Democrats have won recent elections because of the “anything goes, you accept me, I accept you” mentality?

I have never had a Republican call me a person of color; I thought I was human. Which is the party of true inclusion? You decide.

It's time to stop using abortion, gay rights and similar hot buttons to vote; focus on merits of what a candidate offers. When you take away social issues, is there really a difference between the two parties? You decide.

Obama and GOP agree? Now that is a miracle!

I wonder what the locals who have a bee in their bonnet about prayer at Eureka City Council meetings think about the Obama administration supporting and agreeing with Republican lawmakers about allowing Christian prayers at council meetings. This debate will soon be heard in the landmark case involving the town of Greece, N.Y. at the U.S. Supreme Court level.

Will the present Supreme Court Justices have the same view as those who decided
Marsh v. Chambers (1983)?

Not all non-believers, atheists and agnostics feel threatened by prayer. In Humboldt County, personal experiences may vary depending on the town you live in; most people do respect other’s faith, even Christians. Many have varying opinions but this recent lambasting in the media and a lawsuit against the City of Eureka is a vocal minority with double standards.

Having an invocation before a public meeting does not instantly convert anyone or force beliefs on anyone. If anything, it is a humbling experience where those in charge acknowledge that given the position they have, they may need help in making objective decisions that are for the best for those they have been elected to govern. No decision is going to please everyone. I would rather have an elected official who realizes they are not perfect make a decision than an arrogant one, who thinks they know it all.

Faith is a very private thing. Luke 1:37 is often paraphrased as: “Faith. It does not make things easy, it makes them possible.” Even someone non-religious can relate to that statement. Why is that some people are so bothered by positive and inspiring words? Is my right and others right to practice our faith to be dismissed because some people have ascribed their agenda, interpretation and fear as absolute dogma.

What is proper use of city resources? Would people who are so troubled because a letter was typed about one prayer breakfast be just as outraged if the event was something they supported?

This last week I had conversations with several individuals. Some I share a common faith with; some of various religious beliefs, others who self identify as atheist, agnostic, secular humanists and of the latter, there were several who privately support the City of Eureka and Mayor Jager. We had spirited discussions on religion and yet we were able to respectfully express ourselves and at times disagree.

It amazes me that some people blindly accept theories and facts by other humans yet have a problem with those of us that believe and accept God. I won’t surrender or submit to another man or woman and that has had its cost for me financially and made my life a struggle sometimes but I have no regrets.

I do surrender to God because unconditionally, no matter what, God has always been there for me and I know he loves me despite my mistakes, the balance of my bank account, the moments when life’s struggles weigh me down. No human can fill the emptiness, no human can heal, no human takes what seems impossible and makes it possible, and unlike another person or thing, God is always there without judgment and conditions. 

Eric Martin at the Ironside Gallery for Arts Arcata

Eric Martin says his goal with his photography is to challenge the viewer to take a second look and try to notice hidden subtleties in his work, and figure out what he is trying to convey. The name of his business, 2ndsights Photography, came about as a result of this goal.

He graduated from HSU's Studio Art Department in 2007 and has been a photography enthusiast since his first black-and-white film class at HSU with well-known photography professor Don Anton. While he was always interested in photography, Martin didn't know much about the medium. In fact, as a teenager he dreamed of becoming a career potter, having used the potter's wheel since he was 14. At HSU he focused on ceramics, but since he graduated, he started devoting more time to developing a style with photography.

Now 29, Martin aims to create visually striking work by overlapping multiple photos of common objects, places, textures and quiet phenomena, things and people one might pass by every day and may not appreciate.

His work references a common darkroom technique often called sandwiching, which he first learned about and tried during a beginning black and white film class at HSU. While several other ways to achieve the same effect using film, Martin works digitally to create the final product the viewer sees.

Sometimes his subject matter is easily identified, but often it is not on purpose. The layered imagery that results from his process could be said to hold a mysterious and even dreamlike quality, with a familiarity that draws the viewer to explore deeper.

Since he graduated, Martin and his partner have lived in Grass Valley, where he worked for an Americorps program, then Chico, where she received a teaching credential and he worked as a professional picture framer. They moved back to Humboldt in June 2010 because, he said, they missed the nature, ocean, family and friends who live here.

Martin says his biggest challenge has been figuring out the right career path to follow.

”I'm married now and we want to be able to purchase a home and raise a child, so I need to have consistent, reliable employment,” he said. “For most people that precludes being a career artist. I'm still working towards a career that can help provide us all these things. So I do my art at night and on the weekends.”

Once he moved to Old Town in 2011, Martin started displaying his work often in the local shops and says he has received positive responses.

”For now, my goal is to just keep displaying locally, so my work becomes recognizable,” he said. “Eventually I would like to market my photographs in the Bay Area and some of the places in between here and there. My goal is to have my photography generate a more substantial part of our income. Since we live in a globalized economy, I look forward to expanding my customer base to include people from the East Coast and even different countries.”

Martin can be reached through his online shop, www.etsy.com/shop/2ndsightsphotography or 845-9479.

Wedding planner celebrates 10 years in Humboldt

John Chiv/For the Times-Standard

Posted:   07/04/2012 02:36:18 AM PDT

In Nancy Burrow's own words, “anyone who needs a good Italian-Portugese to run the show and make sure every tiny detail is taken care of” should hire 2 Moms Party Planning and Weddings.

Burrow, the owner of a successful business that will celebrate its 10th anniversary this month, has clients all over Humboldt County and even travels as far as Yreka. This year she plans to go global to promote her business and the redwoods. Many of her wedding clients are from Southern Humboldt and Miranda Gardens is Burrow's favorite location.

Burrow, a Bay Area native with a background in Italian restaurants and event planning, moved to Humboldt in 1996 and went into business with another mom, her neighbor, in 2002. The business grew and in a couple of months, according to Burrow, her partner decided to let her fly solo because the business required a lot of time.

A go-getter, Burrow started by printing up 800 business cards and cold-calling. In her first week, she got three clients: St. Joseph, her first wedding, and a sweet sixteen, and hasn't looked back since. 2 Moms Party Planning and Weddings now employs many moms and dads now on an event-by-event basis.

”I didn't do this for the money; this is my passion,” said Burrow. “My clients are like my family. They trust me.”

She travels to where her clients need her, or sets them up before they land. Burrow and her crew will even help you propose to your beloved – a new service they offer.

2 Moms  works with many local vendors. Regulars include catering by Perfect Palate, music by DJ Dub Cowboy, flowers by Flora Organica, photography by L and M Photography, and ceremonies officiated by Dana Hope.

”Anything is possible if you just believe you can do it and give 100 percent every single time,” is Burrow's advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs. For more details, call 707-502-5000 or visit 2momspartiesandweddings.com

Puttin' on the Ritz in Old Town Eureka

John Chiv/for the Times-Standard

Posted:   06/12/2012 02:38:20 AM PDT

Jack Wu has a penchant for offering good fare, and thanks to him, the lights are on at the Ritz again. The historic Ritz at 240 F St. in Eureka's Old Town reopened quietly on June 1 with a tasting menu. With only word of mouth so far, they have had steady business.

On June 5, the restaurant unveiled its full menu. The Ritz offers modern cuisine featuring French-style plates with a range of Thai flavors. Chef Eric Nelson and Sous Chef Rudy Mujianto tempt your palate with tapas, small plates and savory selections such as Ritz eggplant chevre rolls on wood-fired pita bread, scallop and bay shrimp fritters with Ritz mild curry, grilled duck breast with spicy hoisin glaze, shrimp and crab pizza with lime thyme, tobiko and enoki mushrooms and sun-dried tomato and garlic cream and desserts such as banana bread pizza with strawberries and frozen nutmeg whipped cream.

Prices range from $6 to $18. Vegan and gluten-free options are available.

How did they arrive at what kind of food to offer? Building owner Dan Olivier had a wood-fire oven put in a few months ago. Nelson's background is in French cooking, specifically Southern France. Wu wanted a Thai influence. The result is the Ritz's current French-Thai fusion with seasonal and local ingredients.

The Ritz is open seven days a week and currently offers beer and wine. A full bar will be available soon. Works by local artists Andrei Hedstrom and Jennifer Mackey adorn the walls.

Samuel Santangelo is the front-house manager who oversees a staff of 30 employees, many of whom will be familiar faces to regular patrons of Old Town. In the first week, many diners complimented Santangelo on his excellent recommendations and great customer service.

”The community and nearby businesses have been very supportive,” said Santangelo, “and we plan to be good neighbors and return that generosity and welcome.”

Customers in this first week have had a chance to give feedback on their favorite dishes. Like a painting in process, the Ritz menu will evolve and update.

”The Ritz is one of the best locations in town,” Wu said. “In my travels, I was inspired by some places I visited and wanted to offer a local option which was artistic, different, comfortable and fun. This business brings together my love for good food, support for the arts and to offer Old Town a chance to share in my dream becoming a reality.”

The Ritz has been a landmark of Old Town since 1947. Olivier purchased the building and restored it in 1978. The renovation and design took place over a 14-year period. The Ritz operated as a successful nightclub during that time and since then has been home to many an upscale establishment.

The Ritz's grand opening will be on Friday. Nelson said a couple of new dishes will be introduced that day and some specials. For reservations and more information, call 707-497-6294.