Trinitas comments:

This is Darryl Rusk, never anonymous! This Nation is facing financial disaster, and the Feds have created over a TRILLION dollars out of thin printing presses. (Yes trillion, $1,000,000,000,000.00) California is facing a $46,000,000,000.00 (BILLION) short fall by March, and could become bankrupt by this time next year. Calaveras County is still trying to balance it’s budget, which is mandated by State law, and was just forced to lay of eight people and their families from the building department.
AND THE KIR QUINTET CAN’T SEEM TO FATHOM THE SCOPE OF THE PROBLEM. They continue to flail away against the evil golf course. They continue to try to bankrupt a young family trying to build a dream. WHAT IS WRONG WITH THESE PEOPLE? Is it that they have their retirement money, so gosh, whatever trouble they cause won’t hurt them? Remember, a community survives best when all of its citizens do well.
I have heard that myopia is the result of geologic relocation of the cranium. But, I don’t know if that’s true.
Darryl Rusk again. One of the reputable anonymouses mentioned ‘thinking outside the box.’ The term refers to large businesses that have many people working in individual cubicles.
And yet..., the same writer continues his/her cranium challenged rants from the sixties and seventies’ environmentalist extreme anti-business, often anti- American, and often against any kind of human activities (except their own, of course).
I sense that the majority of complainers were hired into good paying government or education jobs and became transfixed in their then mind set beliefs, and now can’t find their way out of their own boxes.
These people seem to be incredibly uninformed when it comes to the real world ‘outside the box’. For a general update: golf courses tend to have large areas of green space and ponds that attract and protect wildlife. They do make money, or places like Pebble Beach, Torry Pines, and the Palm Springs areas would be broke. Those areas seem to be doing pretty well.
As for paying a living wage? I don’t know what your definition is, and you haven’t said. The Nemee family has hired many people and would like to hire more. Your Christmas present to those who can’t yet be hired is an almost unbelievably arrogant kiss off.
And just because I tend to be curious, how many people have been hired at ‘your definition of a living wage’ by any members of these elite little groups called the KIR quintet or Calcap? Just how much money have you contributed to the Calaveras County economy?
A golf course is a profit center for the County! Plus, it is an internal community tat maintains it’s own roads, bikeways, park areas, etc. And, a golf course tends to require very little commitment from County Police, Fire, or Road departments. Yet Trinitas would pay taxes and fee that help provide these services around it. Money also would go our schools, and to our children. Although I suspect that most of the whiners are old, they must remember the concept of children.
Flail on old-time complainers, flail on! Every time to write, and often when you speak publicly, you demonstrate why we need more families like the Nemees. They actually do contribute to a better future!
I sometimes wonder what color the sky is in Donald Kuhn’s world. In his most recent letter to the editor (12-17-08), he begins with the obvious, we’re in a drought. Then he strongly criticizes supporters of the Trinitas project for using or making assumptions. Wait for it...,you know it’s coming.
Mr. Kuhn spends the majority of his ink condemning those same supporters with the use of incredible assumptions. He says, wrongly, that the Trinitas "is drawing an estimated 113 million gallons of water...". That number was created from whole cloth by members of his own self-serving group!
He whines that more aquifer testing is needed, but fails to mention that Mike Nemee and his family are fronting the costs for CCWD to perform exactly those long term tests. He also fails to mention that neither he nor anyone in his group have been willing to put up anything but complaints for the past couple of years: no money, no proof of any code violations, not one shred of anything other that tiresome old school environmentalist games.
He must be getting sensitive to my responses when he has, in the past, tried to make ‘legal’ statements, because he only mentioned the State Supreme Court once. That’s a refreshing change.
If I correctly followed his letter’s logic, he said that the Trinitas Golf Course could open right now without any known damage to the aquifer. Congratulations Donald, I think you may have finally gotten something right.
By the way: I know that no one in the KIR quintet nor Calcap have actually been to Trinitas, so I again offer to give you a free guided tour. Just let me know when. Also, since you have refused to even sit down at a table with the Nemees, I offer to find whomever you would like as a mediator (that’s environmentalist speak for security), so all of you can actually have a civil conversation!

Amazing! Of course I have mentioned that Barack Obama is black. He is. Of course I mentioned that McCain is old. He is. Both candidates had hurdles to overcome amongst some voters, and whichever was elected, it would have been a first. It would also have been a first to actually have the first female elected nationally. All of these things add to what makes America a great country.

Anonymous is incorrect in comments about Obama..., he was not the first black candidate for president. You'd have to dig a little, but I'll give you this. He was the first black candidate for presidenthe on a major party ticket. Anonymous twice called me a racist for noting that Obama is black. Hell, that was one of his qualities, not negatives. I question what kind of a mindset anonymous must come from. Clearly, he/she has no understanding of what racism is.

Go back and ask a 14 year old boy from the 1940s who was castrated then hanged by the KKK because he whistled at a white girl. His body was taken back north to Chicago where his mother demanded an open casket, to show what racism means!

Go t Darfur where Muslim Arabs are murdering black Christians, and Europeans aren't doing anything because the victims are black, and they don't want to offend Muslims. That's racism!

Go back, look at what is now Somalia, and watch as black muslim tribes sell other black women and little children from other tribes into slavery on Portugues ships during the 1500s. I suspect the writer has no clue, no any wilingness to stand up to what real racism is!

Just try driving with a black man in a Bently, RollsRoyce, or high end BMW almost anywhere in this country. Just count the seconds, in any town you know, until you're stopped by some cop. That is racism! Don't you dare call me a racist!

Tuesday, November 4th, 2008 -- VOTE !

This national election will have historic results, no matter which ticket wins ! On the Republican side we have the oldest first-time presidential candidate (who's mother is very active at 94), and a state governor who has climbed her own ladder towards the vice-presidency. I suspect that she, no matter the outcome, will be a force in the Republican party for the next generation. Even though the President tends to be blamed or congratulated for everything that happens, the position really has little actual power! So the long-term impact of this election is Sarah Palin!

On the Democrat ticket we have a young, inexperienced black who does have a pretty decent education! His veep choice is a mirror image of McCain! Barack Obama has, without question, energized the Democrat party far beyond anyone since FDR. Some have compared Obama to Kennedy, but that isn't a very good fit, convenient and buttery, not just not accurate! It is interesting to watch Bill and Hillary accept an uncomfortable back seat in the party. They must have believed that they were creating a dynasty. It appears that Americans aren't too keen on dynasties. So, as with Palin, Barack will be THE major force for the Dems for their next generation. Oddly, the Clintons now seem old.

I voted for McCain - Palin becasue I prefer an old capitalist with a young female veep, over a young socialist with an over the hill foot-in-mouth left over. Capitalism builds jobs, socialists builds government!

LOCALLY ???? For the same reasons stated above, I have voted for Tofanelli and Tryon. They have each made it clear that Calaveras is dead without economic development that brings in good paying jobs. To do that we need an educated and prepared workforce and a welcome mat in the building and planning departments (including fast-tracking!). The Soops set the tone! Do we continue to create obstacles and time and money consuming roadblocks, or do we make the desperately needed changes in county policies and messages????

Please don't misunderstand ! I very much like and respect Both Mrs. McDaniel and Lee Seaton. They are each very well qualified and could bring valuable assets to the Board of Soops ! But as with the national elections, sometimes you must look at the background of supporters. Obama would have Nancy Pelosi and Harry Ried. Sarah Palin has the NRA. Similarly, with both Ms. McDaniel and Mr. Seaton, I have been concerned about their financial backers. Particularly Zerral McDaniel ! She seems to be strongly supported by 'no-growth' factions.

That worries me. Under the guize of "infrastructure", people are trying to block every project that could bring desperately needed money and jobs into Calaveras County! A couple of the current soops are already in that camp ! If you were on the Board, what would you (not Reagan, not Jesus, but what would you do), on this critical question? Think about that before you vote. After a lot of research and personal interviews, I have made my decision!

let's talk, not yell at each other

There seem to be some folks who have difficulty sharing a dialogue without it becoming an opportunity for them to vent their somewhat, at least to me, extreme anger. That's too bad, because when people are able to actually discuss the points at issue, compromises can be reached, or some better understanding of one another's opinions be achieved.

Although I am sure that Lew Mayhew finds it hard to be civil with me, he has consistently been exactly that. Completely civil. I cannot, however, say the same for that entire family. Recently, Kathy Mayhew apparently felt fully justified in raising her voice and pointing her fingers into my chest in public, following a candidates forum. She said, if I understood her correctly, that neither the Mayhews nor anyone associated with them has ever said anything in the way of attacks or personal attacks against the Nemee family. (Mike and Michelle Nemee, and their sons, 3 year old Sammy and 3 month old Nathan, have been attempting to open the Trinitas project on Ospital Road.)

I clearly disagreed with her because there have been constant personal and public attacks against the Nemees for at least the past two years! I also believe, despite the fact that the Mayhews, even though they have been invited many times, have never actually been to the golf course at trinitas, have repeatedly, and during recorded public meetings, made outrageous statements that are simply not supported by facts.

Mrs. Mayhew further indicated, again if I understood correctly, that I have been mean, made mean statements about the Mayhews and Keep it Rural, KIR, and those statements have been personal attacks! Admittedly, there may be some thread of truth in this point. I probably have made statements that come across as mean because they directly challenge the Mayhew's view of the world. I tried to make it clear that anything said by me, has had my name on it, and I try never to use 'anonymous' as a method of hiding my identity. I further said that I mostly ask questions that seem to get under their skin. I will gladly apologize if shown openly and face to face that something I've said is incorrect. Since that hasn't yet happened, I haven't apologized.

I have made this and similar offers in the past: why not have an open public forum or debate during which we can each present our cases and reasonings. But please leave the histrionics, high strung emotions and raised voices at the door. Those things are seldom helpful in moving any discussion forward.

If there are any takers, contact me at darrylrusk@aol.com, or call me at 559-9972. You should be aware, however, that if truthful and honest statements have hurt in the past, I will do my best to provide even more evidence and accuracy during any such debate. Again, any takers?

I have tried always to follow certain principles. For instance, if I say it, I'll sign it. Seems simple enough, but it has been a stumbling block for many others. Also, I believe that open and reasonable dialogue can open doors to better understandings and greater civility. Finally, for today, I think that silly behind the back whispering attacks are for very immature elementary school children, not adults.

Agree or disagree, or even violently disagree, I hope each person reading this has a splendid and safe autumn day -- it is beautiful!

Arguments are getting pretty weak!
I've noticed recently that when people think they are either losing the argument or just think they are, they fall back on "Well, I thought this was democracy!" Harumph! Or, "Well, they went through the back door and bribed their way along!" Harumph! Or, "Those politicians and bureaucrats just sold out!" Harumph! Or best, "I voted for that person to do one thing, and they didn't do it, they just sold out! Double harumph!
This is a note to all those democracy-loving open-minded individuals who fit the above categories: by definition a democracy is a form of governance under which a candidate may be elected by a plurality or majority in an attempt to do the bussiness of government. No individual voter nor vote creates a dictatorship so that one person can have their way, to the exclusion of the wants or needs of others. This is a democracy! You are not a dictator! And, neither you nor I will always get what you or I want!
As for bribes? That could get very expensive and increasingly subject to failure and exposure the higher up the chain you go! Although you may believe that evryone who disagrees with you has been bribed or bought off, it is highly unlikely! We live in a country where very courageous men and women step forward to serve their community, and with three decades of experiences with local governments in California, they tend to be amazingly honest and good hearted people, and I deeply honor and respect them for their efforts.
Now! This is your page. My hope is that it continues to encourage dialogue.
This is your opinion page. I intend to insert my own opinions as well, but almost all topics are not just accepted, but welcomed! The right is reserved to redact unnecessarily foul language and any type of hate mail. All topics are open, whether legal or not, however we can neither promote nor support illegal activities. Subjects can be local or universal, political, religious or whatever else is on your mind -- This is your opinion page.

I am worried about collateral damage!

On more than one occasion, people apparently from kir (cur?) have verbally assaulted and photographed people who were minding their own business at Trinitas. What I don't know is whether these pictures are being put up the internet. Why the concern? Because many of these have included a little 3 year old boy! He has been present and has heard the verbal attacks. He has been present at these photo sessions!

Are pictures of this little boy, taken by kir, being put out on the net? Good Lord! It's dispicable enough to stalk and harass adults on their own private property, but why attack and put at risk a little boy? That is enough!!!! Stop the harassment now. Kir and any of its associates have got to stop this stuff now!

My name is Darryl Rusk and I have never, nor would I ever allow, a small boy to be treated in these ways. There have been some who say that I am mean because of some of the things I've said about kir! They may be right. However, mean or not, kir has yet to answer any of the questions or challenges that I've put out there.

I admit that one person who seemed sensitive to a challenge, but is not a member of kir, said he had helped the community, particularly in San Andreas. I accept, honor and respect that response. It was mature, clear, to the point, and I would love to meet, and buy coffee for this person. The sad thing is that he was the only one to answer the challenge.

I chose to live here. It is peaceful, generally quiet, and almost all of the people I've met have been terrific! I am afraid, however, that there are a few crab apples in this fine orchard who are trying to turn our neighborhood into a battle ground where little boys can be attacked as collateral damage.

Posted at ThePinetree.net:

"Hello. My name is Darryl Rusk (darrylrusk@aol.com) and here is another of my open challenges. Please, state your name for the record. It's easy. Just include your name (not someone else's) in the text area of your message. It is very difficult to take people seriously when they fail to put their names where their mouths are. Note: every time someone has accused me of hiding, they have signed their name as anonimous! Finally, I try never to intentionally post any message that I haven't signed! When I write something I believe to be true, I say so. If I'm not certain, then I include mitigating conditions to the text."

Sorry! Not a 'citation:

Although I know I;ll have to shower afterwards, I hereby offer to present all of my documentation to the pubic in a meeting, or even better, an open pubic debate, so all of your statements can be shown as nothing more than what they Are! Intentionally misleading falsehoods. Let's let the jury of public review decide who has been lieing all along. Are you up for it, or do you need first to check with the puppeteers? I am neither a polished public speaker, nor do I have any experience as a formal debater.

The lord knows that I love to hear from N. O. Nimus. I can't remember whether the Ms were at the BoS on 8-5-08, but they certainly were there on 8-12-08. On the 12th, km delivered a folder to the soops that just contained copies of old stuff, like letters back and forth between County, State and Federal agencies and various complainants. She again made the same old false accusations from the many haranges they have offered over time. Mr. (or is it Ms.?) says a vague letter from 2005 provides some sort of smoking gun. Okay, maybe someone has been smoking -- but nothing in the 3 ring binder of paper offered a single example of a legal 'citation' against the Nemee family nor Trinitas.

I do appreciate your attempt to offer an example of a 'citation' from more than 3 years ago, but the letter referenced was not a citation, just an informational statement. It was, in no way, a citation! And the well driller, and Mike Nemee and his family immediately met the conditions. But it was a good try on your part. Congratulations, I'll give you a 'C' for your average attempt. Many later letters between Ms. S. moreno and the Nemee family confirm! No citations exist!

On the 12th, km insisted there have been many cited violations of County, State and federal laws. Such fantasy citations just don't exist! This is getting boring!

Trinitas is in the CEQA process. That process provides for plenty of public comment. What KIR, and the Ms, are trying to do is muddy the waters in an attempt to siderail exactly those comments that might disagree with them. The voting public in Calaveras County have the chance to make their own minds up based on factual information that is open to public review. Democracies tend to be messy. That's why many extreme liberals and extreme left-wing (s0-called) environmentalist prefer a dictatorship. It's easier to control everybody else's opinions.

Someone once said that every person is a liberal or a conservative, depending on the subject. That seems a fair statement. With regard to civil-rights, I tend to be pretty liberal! Regarding national defense or property rights, I tend to be a conservative. But there are always iffy situations like, what do you do if you see an endangered animal eating an endangered plant?

So! My challenge remains unanswered. The Ms, and those who allow their names to be put over letters written by the Ms, still have failed to offer for public scrutinity, any proof that the Nemee family has violated and received a citation for violation of any County, State or Federal law. Maybe they just need more time. There must be some obscure piece of paper somewhere!

During the 'public comments' section of the Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, August 12, 2008, I believe Kathy Mayhew, and possibly not in these exact words, said that people who support Trinitas and who also have pointed out the many times that the Ms have repeated false accusations against the Nemee family even after they have been corrected..., and again possibly not in these exact words, km said those people like me are just mean and we are picking on them. If this is a correct understanding of what km stated for the record, then I want to clear things up. Yes, km, and all the little ms, I am picking on you.

Someone named 'anonymous' said that all I've ever done is pick on the Mayhews, apparently because I have pointed out that some of the 'trash talk' against the Nemee family has been incorrect in the extreme. I guess that when one points out the errors made by someone, then that just isn't fair. The Ms have been making wild and wildly inaccurate statements about the Nemee's for several years.

What I have been asking for during the past year is: one, just one proven citation by any county state or federal agency against the Nemees or Trinitas; and two, since the Ms have requested donations to KIR (but checks should be written to the Ms), how much has been donated and where is that money now. Folks, those are both neutral questions. I've almost given up.

Since some believe that is picking on the Ms: WHY NOT ASK THEM YOURSELF?

Hey everybody!!!! I've tried. God Knows I've tried! Even today, August 12, 2008, I asked, in open public session of the Board of Supervisors, for just two things from KIR (Lew and Kathy Mayhew). One, any proof that Mike Nemee and his family (including their newborn) or the Trinitas Golf Course has received any, even one, citation from the County, the State, or the Federal Governments -- nothing! And two, where has the money gone that has been donated to KIR (again, the Mayhews)? Surprise!!!! Nothing.

I'm beginning to think they don't like me. Or maybe they think I'm just mean and picking on them with such unfair questions? I probably shouldn't wait, expectantly, for an invitation to their next BBQ. Remember, the BBQ may be on your dime.

Gees! I still haven't heard anything from KIR about their money. All I've asked for (many, many, many times) is what has happened to the money that KIR under the names Lew and Kathy Mayhew. It has been said they would be transparent and their accounting records would be open and above board for review. But nothing. Not a word. I've written to them more than once, sent e-mails, posted my request in several newspapers, yet, still, nothing. I'm not only disappointed, I am hurt.

Heads up:

Hey! KIR !! This is and advance warning regarding an up-coming post!!! Since the standard playbook for the worst labor unions (not all), the extreme left wingnuts who seem to have taken control of the democrat party, and the most extreme elements in the Sierra Club, is to make outrageous accusations against the opponent, then scream and screech when there is a ligitimate response! (Yea, I know, that was a long sentence).

I am slowly building a rather long list of dates, times, places, venue, and locations of some of the most extreme, inaccurate, bordering on libel / slander, unsubstantiated, and repeated even after corrections were offered, kinds of statements made by the mayhews, zellers, kuhns, baileys and others!

If you get a thrill when you see your name in print -- you will love this posting! My plan is to list your name, the date and venue of the statement, and what you said. Every single word will come from identified records so anyone can check for themselves whether I'm right or not. Trust me! I will be right!

So far? It looks to be a long list of false, misleading, and outright lies that have been used to attack Mr. and Mrs. nemee, their 3 year old son and their new born baby boy.

As I have been working on this piece it has become clear that the pattern is to throw out lies and otherwise false statements, then scream that their 'targets' are spreading hate when they respond with correct evidence! I don't want my grand children to remember me as someone who twisted the truth to fit my own opinions. Apparently, unlike some, I have too much pride!

Have some fun!

Lew mayhew, cathy mayhew, marguerite stamper, donald kuhn, muriel zeller, something romano, and one or two others.... Okay, maybe not the mayhews since they are the professionals, I encourage you to get behind and support issues that are based on facts, truth, integrity, and never on unsubstantiated lies, rumors and inuendo. So, here is the fun part....

Since the mayhews want your money and the right to use your names on letters that clearly the mayhews have written, what do you get in return? Do you get to see the evidence they claim to have compiled regarding the vast conspiracy covering up all of the many state, federal and local laws broken by the Nemee family? In fact! Have you ever been shown copies of actual citations against the nemee family by any agency? State, federal, or local? Does their claimed history of breaking the law include colusion by all of the state, federal and local inspectors whom the Nemees asked to come forth and inspect their project?

Just how stupid do the mayhews think you are? This isn't about following the laws! If it were, KIR would be supportive and move on. No! This is about the mayhews, donal kuhn and a very few others who want to grand stand to hide their real agenda which is to stop all growth in Calaveras County!

Fun? Ask for proof before taking sides or joining any band wagons!I can prove every statement that I have made about Trinitas. Simply ask them to do the same. If they try to blow you off, then you know the answer.

Challenge!

This is an open challenge to the mayhews and any others associated with the money trap called KIR: If you can't prove what you have accused the Nemee family of doing, then just shut up and go away! Also, why won't the mayhews open their so-called books so we can see where all the money has gone? I have asked many times for that information, but have been ignored. Has anyone ever see an accounting of the money collected by keep it rural (KIR) ???? Has anyone ever seen any actual proof that the Nemee family has done anything wrong? Not very likely! Why? Because people like the KIR croud (and I use the word 'croud' very loosely) rely on big lies repeated often.

See for yourself - Trinitas responds to allegations by the press

I found a very interesting post on the Calaveras County Taxpayers Association website (www.ccta.camp8.org) regarding the no growther's latest attempt to use normal EIR procedures against Trinitas owner Mike Nemee. Mike and Michelle have done nothing but welcome a transparent EIR process and deserve a fair shake by all including the liberal media. It nice to see that the Nemee's are fighting back against these frivolous attacks!

In his letter, Mr. Abbott clearly outlines the normality of this ongoing process and how it has been taken out of context and used against his client. See for yourself that Trinitas has never been in violation or received a citation from the State or Federal wildlife agencies. To view this letter click here.

What have you ever done?

I have searched through the internet files and found nothing! I searched under 'KIR', 'GOALS' (that's the anti-growth group in Modesto), and also searched under each and every name associated with those groups. Nothing! Every reference is to something that these groups and individuals tried to tear down! I found nothing to show that they ever built anything! They've never built a business. Never hired or fired employees. Nothing!

They have never put their own money, hearts nor futures on the line. They appear only to try to destroy what others have built. I guess it's easier to tear down than it is to build up.

The inmates are in charge of the assylum

I see that D. Kuhn is again pretending to be a legal scholar. In one recent letter (6-13-08) he offers a distorted and misleading quotation from a sharp fellow from San Diego named Lane Sharman. Kuhn implies that the quote comes from a legal authority. It Doesn’t. Nice try!
It comes from a position paper presented to the Borrego Water Exchange in support of a no-growth position for Borrego Springs. That town is located in the extreme desert, east of the Salton Sea, in Southern California. I have spoken with Lane Sharman, a computer engineer. I like him, but don’t like him to be misrepresented.
Mr. Kuhn, tries to present a legal position, but it is obvious he is unqualified. He attempts to mislead readers into believing there are now more than ‘60' wells that have problems. He should recheck his list. He lied about the people on the list of ‘32' wells. Many of them are prepared to sign affidavits declaring that their names were never authorized to be used on such a list by anyone associated with KIR.
Some of those named people supposedly signed letters to the BoS . . . Wait, it’s coming, those letters were fakes. The individuals neither wrote nor signed those ‘letters’. Maybe, Mr. Kuhn, Mr. And Mrs. Mayhew, and the others should stop hiding their real intentions. No growth! It seems some folks are willing to libel, lie, slander, and smear, to get what they want.
And he has the temerity to say other people are breaking the law. The Nemees have created something beautiful, paid their taxes and then some, and have tried to do what’s right. What have you done?
It appears you (KIR) have been advised to temper your flaming accusations against the Nemees. Recordings of meetings of the BoS show what each of you have said. M. Zeller asks who is accountable. I ask you who will be accountable for the outrageous things that have been said about the Nemees? And a note for M. Anderson, CEQA, not you, will decide whether any changes will have to be done at Trinitas.

Anti-Growth Crusade is Hurting Calaveras

Couldn't have said this better myself. In today's Calaveras Enterprise...

Opinion

Anti-growth crusade is hurting Calaveras

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Posted: Tuesday, July 8, 2008 11:00 AM CDT

Keep it Rural and MyValleySprings.com types are up in arms over the Calaveras Deputy Sheriffs Association’s endorsment of the Trinitas project. This rift is going to widen as people, like the members of the DSA who live, work and want to shop here, learn their way of life is being negativley impacted by KIR and MVS.com trying to preserve the imaginary utopia they believe exists.These groups say they are for smart growth. I’m asking either group to respond with the name of any project they have supported. Smart growth must mean: in another county.Calaveras County employees are going to suffer a far worse fate than what’s being discussed in this year’s budget. In the upcoming years more jobs will be cut because this county wouldn’t or couldn’t find the wisdom and courage to expand our economy.

The county has many good employees like those in the DSA. Look for them to begin to stand up and ask why no retail projects are moving forward. Why is the county using resources to hurt existing businesses like the Valley Springs Fruit Stand? More importantly, look for them to ask how can you continue to pay for my job when we are going backward economically?I wonder if Ironstone Vineyards was being processed today what KIR and MVS.com would say.

Sheryl Crow was just there and the thousands of folks who came to Murphys got along just fine. They made it up the one-and-a-half lane road to enjoy the concert, The local businesses did well and the county government got their share. Who thinks Ironstone could get through planning today?

Thank goodness KIR and MVS.com didn’t have the chance to kill that deal.Trinitas will have impacts and they should be required to mitigate their impact. I also support the Trinitas project and I encourage supervisors to direct staff to bring it forward. The slow death of postponement is killing many projects that will benefit the majority of folks here.

It’s time to change the can’t-do attitude that overshadows this county. It’s time for a vocal few to realize they are hurting families who deserve a chance to earn a living just like they were given.

Jeff DavidsonValley Springs

Trinitas Backed By Tax Group - Reads Union Democrat Headline

Trinitas backed by tax group

Published: July 3, 2008

By HOYT ELKINS

The Union Democrat

The recently-formed Calaveras County Taxpayers Association has asked county supervisors to speed up the review process of the controversial Ridge at Trinitas golf course development near Burson.

CCTA is the second organization to endorse the project since developer Mike Nemee hosted a Valley Springs Area Business Association mixer at the golf course last month. First to voice approval after tours conducted during the business association event was the Calaveras County Deputy Sheriff's Association.

Both organizations touted the economic benefits of the development to the county tax base.

"Trinitas is one of the largest ag producers in the west end of the county," said Al Segalla, president of the taxpayers group. "This project has a wonderful balance of ag, open space, oak tree preservation, wetlands and wildlife habitat enhancement, plus water conservation and reclamation."

In remarks to county supervisors earlier this week, Segalla said he had reviewed letters of support for the project written by "neighbors of the development."

"Some of these letters are shocking in that they indicate a massive fraudulent campaign is under way to kill this project," Segalla declared.

He added that the project owners appear to have consistently followed the requests of the county and followed the rules from when the project was a private golf course "to the present more significant public agri-tourist project."

Project critics say that it was begun without proper environmental review and continued after county officials told Nemee to stop. What originally had been called an 18-hole private golf course over 95 acres, grew into a public golf course development with a proposed 30-unit lodge, a clubhouse and plans for 13 new custom homes on 2-acre lots.

Lew Mayhew, spokesman for Keep it Rural Calaveras, a group spearheading opposition to the project, responded to the CCTA endorsement saying "statements about the project's history and apparent violations of county, state and federal laws are solidly supported by documents in the public record."

"We don't have to argue about it, just assess it fairly," Mayhew said. "An impartial DEIR (Draft Environmental Impact Report) will evaluate the past and future impacts and recommend mitigations for unauthorized construction. Then the county taxpayers can understand the full costs and consequences of the proposed project."

A DEIR is being prepared and is expected to be made public later this month. Nemee is paying for the report.

An unexpected, but welcome, change in tone by KIRC. "We don't have to argue about it, just assess it fairly"...that sure sounds like a reasonable approach. BTW, Nemee is REQUIRED to pay for the report by the County...standard for most project applicants...didn't want the article to leave the wrong impression.

Al Segalla @ the BOS meeting, Thanks Pinetree!

The Calaveras County Tax Payers Association has decided to take their support of Trinitas directly to the Board of Supervisor's.

Now, thanks to the pinetree.net, video of the Calaveras County Board of Supervisor's meeting is available at www.thepinetree.net. To view the video, click here. To get straight to Al Segalla's comments, fast forward to 10 minutes and 20 seconds.

More about Trinitas & Water

A note received today from an individual identifying herself as cathryn jackson as posted on the blog. See my response below:

"I am a member of KIRC, I have researched the declining water quantity/availability in the western end of our county. I live in Wallace and am concerned about property rights of our existing agricultural residents, especially wells that are in trouble. As such I attended a meeting in 2006 of about 36 neighbors adjacent to the Trinitas Golf Course who had agreed to be trained in CEQA law in order to use the required Environmental Impact Report to challenge negative impacts to their environment through the county Board of Supervisors.The overdrafted East Stockton aquifer Nemee's deep wells are using has been declared in the State Water Board bulletins for 2 decades. The Govenor is currently in the news driving efforts to restore the San Joaquin delta.My comments on Trinitas's first Draft EIR involved a mathemtical analysis of the golf courses' water requirements they submitted in Chapter 12; Tables 12-1 and 12-2.The results I found, using their tables showed water consumption to be equivelent to 513 homes. Only 439 homes now exist in Wallace. No complete hydrological study of aquifer depths has been done to quantify how much population growth can even be sustained in this area. The State Regional Water Board warned Calaveras Planning Department in 2005 & 2006 not to proceed with a nearby project requesting 124 homes until surface water could be brought in. So why did the county allow this golf course to continue being built in the first place? I appreciate you offering this blog. All my comments are part of public records now.

Cathryn Jackson"

Thank you for responding Cathryn. Those are many interesting facts and figures. However, they seem to miss the point. If the East Stockton Water Aquifer is overdrafted, and I don't know that is the case...but even if it were: Trinitas didn't cause that problem, and as I said earlier, the latest information provided by the local water agency suggests that it would not...as currently planned...negatively impact the local water supply. Everyone has a right to drill their own wells, even the Nemees. That's part of our private property rights you mention in your post, and by the way the Nemees have those same private property rights. They've shared with me their commitment to maintaining the County's agricultural heritage through their olive oil agritourism business, so I am satisfied that they, like you, clearly care about private property rights AND agriculture.

With your comparison to building homes as you state above, even if that were true and I (respectfully) have seen no evidence your claim notwithstanding: would you rather have the homes built?

Regarding your study of the data, it's clear that some of the original water well data you might have used in your study was either reported incorrectly or misrepresented. You choose which, but I know this is an issue that will receive greater scrutiny when the County gets the EIR show on the road.

The golf course is private, constructed according to county zoning as far as I know. The reason for the EIR process, as you know from your CEQA training, is so that the public and government agencies have the opportunity to provide comments, just as you have done in the past. We should get on with the process of circulating the EIR document so that we can get everything on the table. I hope you agree.

Thanks for your comments!

"A welcome addition to the ever changing agricultural community"...sounds like a ringing endorsement from a guy who should know!

Letter to the Editor from Ken Churches

Posted by: Kim_Hamilton on 06/30/2008 05:27 PM, Updated by: thepinetree on 06/30/2008 06:50 PM

Dear Editor,

As I read a recent letter to the editor by Lew Mayhew, it seemed very clear to me that he has not taken the time to either visit the Trinitas ranch or discuss the agricultural operations there with Mr. Nemee. Agriculture holds the key to the future of Calaveras County. The preservation of the County’s rural character is of primary importance to most County residents. Agriculture maintains this rural character and creates a sustainable fundamental economic base when ....agricultural lands are defined and protected as a vital resource. Agricultural operations including agri-tourism are a major contributor to the economic engine of the County. This economic fact goes well beyond the sale of food and fiber. Agricultural operations are, in large part, responsible for the growth of tourism and the resulting restaurants, lodgings and stores. Often overlooked in this equation is the role agriculture plays in providing the County and its residents with open space, wildlife habitat, watershed protection oak woodlands, recreational opportunities, and food security.The Trinitas ranch is one of the most innovative and productive olive oil operations in the Sierra Foothills. Mr. Nemee contacted me when he had first purchased the property for advice on developing a viable olive production program. He has served for a number of years on the Calaveras Grown Board of Directors as an outspoken advocate of agri-tourism. He is not just now “reinventing” its public image as suggested. His golf course has preserved the oak trees on his property and enhanced wildlife. The view across the oak strewn course and onto the 125 year old olive orchard is rural in nature, historically significant, and very pleasing to the eyes of tourists. I view this project as a welcome addition to the ever changing agricultural community, not the rural devastation that Mr. Mayhew seems to be describing.

Ken R. Churches
San Andreas

KIRC Response

Following is a post on this site made by someone identifying themselves as jackie neill...my response is below.

jackie said...
I attended the first neeting of KIRC and there were indeed 70 people there. I am a member of and support the efforts of KIRC.My question for the DSA members would be, "How many of you live close enough to the golf course to have your quiet rural way of life ruined by the traffic and noise the golf course will bring?"We would all like to see the county be rich enough to hire more sheriff and fire personal but those of us now living on the west end of the county do not want the extra tax base to derive from a project that the county has accepted despite warnings from Public Health about water availability. We do not want to sit in long lines of traffic every weekend and we do not want golf balls in our front yards. jackie neill
June 27, 2008 2:22 PM

Respectfully jackie, I understand your concerns. The primary purpose of this blog is to expose the shenanigans of of KIRC and to give the Trinitas issue a fair airing rather than the one-sided perspective we've been hearing for a couple of years. With those goals in mind let me address your posting above.

1) There may have been 70 curious people at the first informational meeting, but how many of them actually joined the group? How many are there now? I have spoken with several people who were at the original meeting who left unimpressed with the Mayhews and their intentions. Subsequently I spoke with others who were concerned about the Mayhews stated intention to seek money to fight the Trinitas project by setting up a non profit but putting the money in their own bank account (publicly acknowledged by the Mayhews) even as they now back away from their original statements.

2) Regarding your statement about traffic and noise impacting our rural way of life, I find that whole argument disingenous at best, and misleading at worst. Everyone who has read even a little bit of the official Trinitas documents on the County website knows that the Nemees could put in a subdivision or a number of other intensive uses BY RIGHT. By continuing his agritourism operations and allowing a golf course, we get the best of both worlds - continuing agricultural operations and tax revenue and jobs w/o the impacts of a housing subdivision.

3) Warnings from Public Health about water availability? With all due respect Jackie, what warnings are you talking about? Every document I have reviewed, including those by the local water agency show no impact, or even a slightly positive impact from the Trinitas project as it is proposed today. Can you imagine if Nemee were building a huge tract housing subdivision? Now that would be a concern. Show me the documents you're talking about or post them here.

4) Jackie, I don't know how close you live to Trinitas, but even if there were a few golf balls in your front yard that would be a small price to pay for the increase in your homes value due to the proximity of the type of golf course Nemee is proposing. As to the traffic, cmon Jackie. The County is going to make Nemee mitigate for any traffic issues and my guess is that probably includes fixing some of the very roads that you and your family already use to get to your house every day.

As to KIRC, I for one would not want to be associated with any "non-profit" organization whose bank account is tied to the president's bank account. Even if they've decided to set up a separate account by now, I would question their initial lapse in judgment. What else have they done that we don't know about?

Calaveras Taxpayers Association Endorses Trinitas Project, claims "a massive fraudulent campaign is underway to kill the project"

Calaveras County Taxpayers Association, in a press release endorsing the Trinitas project said that "a massive fraudulent campaign is underway to kill the project.” Of course that's what I have been saying all along. I have encouraged the District Attorney and other organizations to investigate the Mayhews and their front group - Keep It Rural, Calaveras. Maybe now with the spotlight on these people we'll see some action.

Note From the DSA...Well Said

A nice note from the DSA..."thank you for your wonderful support of the Deputy Sheriff's Association, it is greatly appreciated to have those of you in the community stand up and support us for speaking up for what we believe is a positive impact on our community. It is my firm belief that the Trinitas project will bring a needed boost to the economy and be the same to the western portion of the county that Ironstone has been to the folks in the Murphys community.

I have no problem with anyone's right to state a position and support an issue, what I am struggling with is the thought that those of us who protect and serve the citizens of the county and any other individual who may visit our county; do not have a right to speak out on issues that so closely affect us. I'm not quite sure the rationale in attacking us for wanting to be active and play a part in the future of the county.

I do not personally know Mr & Mrs Mayhew, but have enough respect and courtesy to allow them to voice their opinion without resorting to personal attacks, or stating that they have no business in voicing their opposition. It is my hope that as this process moves forward that sound thinking and common sense will prevail and the realization that Trinitas will benefit so many others in the county.

Again, thanks for your courage and thoughtfulness in supporting the men and women of the Deputy Sheriff's Association.

Sincerely,Tracy BusbyPresident, CCDSA

That Was Quick! - KIR Membership Numbers

Already heard from a reader reminding me about an article in the Calaveras Enterprise. In that November 9, 2007 article there is a quote which says "Mark Connolly, an attorney representing the citizen group “Keep it Rural Calaveras,” a group of about 70 Trinitas opposers in the Wallace area". Let's use that as our benchmark.

Since the reporter does not say to whom that number is attributed, let's presume its from KIR itself aka The Mayhew Household. If it were ever that high to begin with (no proof offered anywhere) then it must be safe to presume that either many of the questions of those who used to belong to the group have been answered and they are no longer members or they got fed up with the leadership of the group aka The Mayhew Household or there never were 70 members of the group.

I am betting it's the latter, but I am willing to be proven wrong. KIR members, let me know if you're out there. I'd love to hear from you.

Known Members of Keep It Rural Calaveras

Look to the left column under the heading "Known Members of Keep It Rural Calaveras". I have been curious to know just how many actual members this group has. I am going to go back through all my research and the local papers and see if I can identify a few more.

If anyone wants to self-identify as a member, by all means post something on this blog and I will add your name to the list. If I find someone who has been referenced as a member of KIR but can't confirm it I will put a question mark behind their name. Same is true with the handful of letter signers who've written letters to the editor.

If any of my readers know of any other folks, let me know. I suspect that there really and truly are only a handful of active members in their coterie.

Deputies' association endorses Trinitas - Calaveras Enterprise

Deputies' association endorses Trinitas

By Colin Rigley

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Posted: Tuesday, June 24, 2008 12:46 PM CDT

The Calaveras County Deputy Sheriff’s Association has thrown its support behind the Ridge at Trinitas golf course project.With $1.2 million of the Sheriff’s Department’s budget on the chopping block, the association endorsed Trinitas in a move to direct more money into the county budget. A union supporting a private enterprise, particularly one that has generated as much debate as Trinitas, is “out of the ordinary,” admitted Sgt. Tracy Busby, association president. However, Busby said, for the county and Sheriff’s Department to survive, “we have to get creative in how we are going to bring revenue into this county.”Preliminary budget hearings begin today, and the Sheriff’s Department is facing a laundry list of potential cuts to its about $13 million budget. Although sheriff’s deputy positions are not proposed for cuts, a number of other positions will likely be let go and deputies will have to step in to fill the gap.

“We have to realize that we need some infrastructure dollars coming to the county to pay for services,” Busby said.According to Trinitas owner Mike Nemee, his project would generate a “significant economic benefit for Calaveras County.” The project would provide 48 fulltime jobs at a $1.5 million payroll, Nemee said. Those employees would oversee the operations of an 18-hole golf course, spa, lodge and other onsite facilities on about 280 acres in Wallace.“Our family is certainly honored and humbled to be recognized by law enforcement, which we hold in high esteem,” Nemee said.

My Latest Calaveras Enterprise Opinion Piece

Opinion
Critic's claims without merit
Email this story Print this story
Posted: Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:04 AM CDT
Are you tired of letters based on ignorance or deception? So am I! Sharon Romano’s letter attacks the Trinitas project as having been mishandled by the county. She implied that some state law has been broken. Others have said Trinitas has violated state laws and county codes, and have even said that Mike Nemee, his wife, their 3-year-old son and their newborn baby have been “repeatedly cited for such violations.”Guess what? To my knowledge, neither the Nemees nor Trinitas have received citations! That project and family continues to do everything asked of them. Some say they just want Trinitas to follow the rules. They have! The critics haven’t. Misrepresentations and outright lies? Let’s demand that the “critics” follow some rules. Citations are public record. If there has been a citation of which I am unaware, show me.A flyer from the Mayhews said that they hadn’t had time to become a nonprofit, and that banking rules prevented them from opening a special account. It said to make those generous contributions to the Mayhews' personal checking account. It said they would keep accurate records. In January and March, I sent letters to the Mayhews asking for information about such contributions. No response. It’s transparent all right.

Even though the flyer stated they wanted nonprofit status, the Mayhews now say they never wanted to be nonprofit. Does that mean they are “for profit”? Is it possible they don’t want to follow the openness rules under nonprofit status? Now they also say the lawyer on their behalf was loaned to them. I want to know who loaned them a lawyer! Who, or what organization, can just loan an attorney?Sharon Romano’s political hit piece was clear. The three candidates she supports are for slow or no growth. If her letter speaks on behalf of those candidates (McDaniel, Seaton, Wilensky), then I am concerned! Trinitas is still going though the Environmental Impact Report process. Hopefully, those candidates aren’t making decisions before the EIR is even done. What’s the old saying? Ready, fire, aim! Please people, stop the trash talk. Darryl Rusk

Burson

"a potential boost to the county coffers with little impact on county services or infrastructure"

The Union Democrat's Hoyt Elkins did get part of the story right when he referenced the DSAs support for Trinitas and echoed their reason for support: "a potential boost to the county coffers with little impact on county services or infrastructure."

The reason: "County revenue has become a matter of concern for sheriff's deputies with the announcement by Sheriff Dennis Downum that his department's spending plan goes into budget hearings today facing the prospect of massive cuts in extra hires and reassignment of patrol deputies."

See my previous post. Without Trinitas and other projects like it, we're looking at one of two outcomes here...fewer deputies or higher taxes.

If the County has to impose a new tax to pay for police and other vital services maybe it should be called the "Mayhew Tax"...

A Fair Shake in The Stockton Record

Calaveras sheriff's deputies support golf course

By The Record
June 24, 2008 6:00 AM

BURSON - The Calaveras County Deputy Sheriff's Association has announced its endorsement of a golf course that was built in an agricultural preserve and without full environmental review.
During a Valley Springs Area Business Association mixer at the Trinitas Golf Course, south of Burson, the association announced its support for the project. In a written media release, the association urged the Calaveras County Board of Supervisors to "move forward and approve the Trinitas project for the benefit of the county and its citizens."

The DSA said the project could "help generate a much needed boost to the county coffers as well as other businesses in the county with little impact to county services or infrastructure."

The project is opposed by some neighbors, who fear its impacts on roads, groundwater and the area's rural character. The project has also drawn the attention of federal, state and local authorities charged with protecting habitat and enforcing land-use regulations. In an unusual twist, the county is requiring Trinitas developer Mike Nemee to do an after-the-fact environmental study of the golf course's impacts, with an eye to requiring some kind of mitigation for harm it already might have done.

The fact that the study is not complete and has not yet been accepted by the county has prevented Nemee from getting the permits he needs to open the course to the public.
Lew Mayhew is a neighbor of the golf course who with his wife, Kathy, leads Keep It Rural Calaveras, a group that opposes the golf course and has been lobbying for enforcement of environmental and planning rules.

Mayhew responded to the DSA endorsement with a release of his own that noted that various agencies have yet to complete their investigations of how the course got built on land that had been receiving tax breaks as an agricultural preserve.

"We think their endorsement is premature and, given the project's history, questionable," Mayhew wrote.

KIR Response to DSA: Desperation and Exaggeration

From KIR "Press Release":

KIR - "We are surprised that a law enforcement union would become involved in a land use decision. It is ironic that they would announce the decision on the site of the illegally constructed golf course, when the draft EIR is not even out and the project is under review of federal and state agencies for legal violations. The impacts of this project on water, traffic, growth, law enforcement and other important consequences for our community are not yet known......" Of course none of the statements above are true, except for the fact that the DSA did endorse Trinitas and the EIR is not in circulation. What does that have to do with supporting a good project? Have the Mayhews waited until the EIR is out to criticize it, no! That kind of faulty logic is how KIR got in this bind in the first place.

KIR -"We understand the union's concern with adequate county funding and compensation for deputy sheriffs. However, the economic contribution of the Trinitas project is only speculation." Lew and Kathy, if you've got a better idea for funding essential county services, post it here. So far, all we've heard from your small circle of supporters is a bunch of criticisms. The LOGICAL conclusion I would draw from this statement is that you'd prefer the people of Calaveras pay higher taxes for essential law enforcement services. Now let's see, how many people in Calaveras are going to want to pay higher taxes? Anyone?


KIR - "When the draft EIR is released, the Deputy Sheriff's Association should comment on the full project's impact on law enforcement. We think their endorsement is premature, and given the project's history, questionable." - The First Amendment protects everyone in this country, not just Lew and Kathy Mayhew.

Shame on you Lew and Kathy and any other members of KIR (if there are any others).

Calaveras County Deputy Sheriffs Endorse Trinitas Project

Well, it looks like the beginning of the end for KIRs campaign of terror directed at the Nemee family and the Trinitas project.

According to PineTree.net "The DSA is starting to take a more proactive stance on various issues that affect its members such as developing a stronger economic base in the County. The DSA is currently working under a one year contract and believes the outlook on future contract negotiations appear bleak.

The DSA appreciates the thoroughness at which the County has addressed this project. The DSA encourages the Board of supervisors to move forward and approve the Trinitas project for the benefit of the County and its citizens."

Click on the PineTree link above to watch a video and see for yourself.

Welcome!

I would like to welcome everyone to the first blog that is dedicated to exposing the misleading statements made by Keep it Rural, Calaveras (KIR). Over the next few weeks, I plan to show how this organization has mislead the residents of Calaveras County into believing Trinitas is wrong for our community, when, in fact, just the opposite is true!

Please feel free to make comments on this blog but remember to express your opinions in a polite manner. No hate mail and no cussing will be accepted. I look forward to seeing your views!

All opinions are not only welcomed, but encouraged!