Poem

2022, Volume 124, No. 1) features an article addressing these critical issues.

A major concern is these wind generators will degrade our pristine and valued coastline, as well. Even 21 miles off shore, these numerous 900-feet-tall generators will always be visible from our shoreline. As Humboldt County Supervisor and Coastal Commissioner Mike Wilson states, “These structures will be seen from virtually everywhere.” We will never again be able to appreciate our magnificent ocean view without seeing these generators.

I understand the need for clean energy sources, and support the need to develop other energy sources. But I don’t want to stand at Centerville Beach, Trinidad or Sue-Meg park and ask why we allowed such turbines in our once pristine oceans. Richard Kandus, McKinleyville

Gateway Concerns

Editor:

After looking over the draft development plans for the proposed Gateway project, I was immediately opposed to the idea of eight-story apartments looming over the Arcata Bottoms, an area of known geological hazards, as well as tsunami and storm surges exacerbated by sea level rise. Bob McPherson described those in stark terms in his thoughtful letter to the editor some weeks ago (Mailbox, Feb. 10).

Several colleagues also enlightened me to the city’s poorly executed planning process, a process where much was done without much opportunity for community input. This is contrary to how my beloved city has handled things in the past and very disappointing.

But the clincher was the immensely enlightening letter (“Audit”) by Dr. Andrea Tuttle, a much respected researcher and supporter of our community and how we wend our way through the inevitable growing pains of increasing population. Her insights demand re-evaluation and extensive revision of the awful plan put forward by city staff. Here is a link to Dr. Tuttle’s letter: www. madriverunion.com/articles/a-detailedaudit-of-the-draft-gateway-area-plan/. I urge all residents to read this letter for a comprehensive understanding of the ramifications of the Gateway plan in its present form.

A Hazy Day

A hazy day at Humboldt Bay, moments of Zen Watching pelicans play Offering thanks to Last night’s dreams, where stories are told In impossible schemes Movement and freedom Combine in a dance, loosening images Unfurled, entranced. — Lori Cole

Diversify the Curriculum

Editor: Thank you for featuring the important work on Indigenous-centered curricula that young activists are promoting in the local public schools (‘Long Overdue,’ April 28). I have spent the last six years researching youth identity, participation choices and resilience in local high schools. Data from interviews, focus groups, surveys and ethnography clearly show that BIPOC students have to armor up every day in schools and communities to withstand the slew of microaggressions, misrepresentations and silences in the curricula. Negative experiences in schools and towns contribute to how young people feel about themselves and the shape their dreams take. Curricula connected to local Indigenous culture, such as that featured in the recent NCJ cover story, alongside things like Yurok language electives (which are currently offered at four high schools: Eureka High School, McKinleyville High School, Hoopa Valley High School and Del Norte High School) are examples of providing educational access that promotes respectful pluriethnic coexistence. Yurok language classes affirm identities of heritage-speakers and help address intergenerational trauma by validating Native cultural practices. For white students, these classes educate them about Indigenous peoples as contemporary neighbors rather than as past folklore. And students from other minority backgrounds report feeling more motivated to investigate their own family backgrounds and to take pride in the identities they find there. In short, diverse curricular offerings do many kinds of positive things for students

THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY GRAND JURY

WANTS YOU!

HELP HUMBOLDT COUNTY IMPROVE!

Apply Now for the full year term beginning in July 1st.

Applications available on humboldtgov.org using the Grand Jury link or pick up an application at the Grand Jury O ce on the fi rst fl oor of the courthouse. application at the Grand Jury O ce on the fi rst fl oor of the courthouse. For more information call 707-476-2475 and leave a message.For more information call 707-476-2475 and leave a message.

from a range of backgrounds.

I hope that school boards, superintendents, principals and teachers can all work together to find ways to expand curricular offerings that move us further away from misrepresentation and toward appreciation, and applaud those who are already doing so. Mneesha Gellman, Boston and Kneeland

NEW LOCATION

Still Working Toward a Solution

Editor:

J.A. Savage’s article (“Geopolitics Undermine Energy Authority’s Solar Project,” posted May 1) accurately portrayed some of the challenges Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA) and other electricity suppliers currently face in meeting our renewable energy goals. As has been widely reported, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s ongoing investigation of alleged circumvention of tariffs imposed on solar panels imported from China is temporarily having a major chilling effect on development of new solar projects in the U.S.

The 100-megawatt Sandrini solar project being developed in Kern County to provide clean power for RCEA’s Humboldt County customers may be delayed and/or see cost increases due to uncertainty around the tariff, along with the inflation and supply chain constraints that are playing out globally. However, contrary to the Journal’s narrative, RCEA’s contract with the developer of the solar project has not been “nullified” and the project has not been “derailed.” RCEA is in negotiations with the developer to find a solution that will allow the project to proceed with schedule and price terms that work for RCEA and our energy customers. Richard Engel, Arcata

More Oversight Needed

Editor:

In Recognition of Elder Abuse Awareness Month, I would like to bring attention to this real problem in our community. There are articles about the failure of CWS to respond to reports of child abuse and this is certainly an eye-opener for our community … these little ones are our future and deserve protection. However, speaking of “the future,” we also have similar problems in the senior community, and they also

need our protection. I am speaking specifically about those living in the local nursing homes, and our assisted living facilities. Unfortunately, these facilities are for-profit and privately owned, thus no local regulatory oversight. It ultimately is the responsibility of each facility/staff to report any suspected abuse. Because such reports could result in unwanted publicity, a “fine,” other disciplinary action or loss of revenue, I am greatly concerned they are failing to report as mandated. The agencies that oversee these facilities are in Santa Rosa; you can imagine how quickly they respond. I have been involved with CASA and know the problems that exist in our community, but now I am working with the “other end of life” and I see those same problems almost daily. I wish we had an authority, such as the grand jury, to do a full investigation NOW OPEN of the day-to-day operations of these facilities. Our program works closely with APS and HCSO, but it seems they all suffer from lack of staff, turnover, inadequate training in working with elders, etc., which makes their jobs difficult in responding to reports of abuse. As a community, we must get together to protect both our young and our old … we all will be “there” some day and I am hoping these types of reports will become obsolete. As the long-term care ombudsman program manager, I urge you to become another set of eyes for these precious individuals, whether young or old — volunteer in your community. Suzi Fregeau, Eureka

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Write a Letter!

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NCJ No Longer Accepting Election Letters!

The Journal’s deadline for letters endorsing specific candidates or measures on the June ballot passed May 16.

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