I am not sure if it is the City or the downtown business association put these lights up, but either way the city does not stop at State and start again at The Market. There is a whole section of the city that is full culture that too many people forget about. Shops, businesses, dinning and more are on the other side of this divide.

We need to understand that our downtown needs more life and it will not get that by only supporting and promoting part of it.

But I am Just Another Voice

Almost every week this is the "What's on the city council's plate this week" review. I don't cover everything, so if you want the full rundown, read the packet and agenda yourself.

1. From what I can tell, the council is sticking with the 1 percent increase allowed in the Ad valorem tax under Initiative 747. While that initiative was struck down by the courts, it looks like the state legislature will put that limit back in place later next week. Here's a pdf of the draft ordinance.

2. The council will also look to remove the sunset portion out of the controversial pedestrian interference ordinance. Now, they don't have to reconsider it every year, it will just be on the books. From the staff report:

Among other provisions, the Pedestrian Interference Ordinance (PIO) created:

1. A 6-foot pedestrian Walking Lane measured from the face of a building or property line;
2. Sidewalk obstruction permits for street furniture when a
6-foot walking lane can still be maintained; and
3. Busking licensing requirements.

In summary, city staff and many downtown merchants believe that the PIO and its phased implementation appear to have been a success. The Police Department’s initial focus on an educational approach was successful and no person has been cited. CP&D has issued 35-sidewalk obstruction permits and no busking license has been issued. The Land Use & Environment Committee and staff recommend that the ordinance be extended.

For Orion, they offered a day-old almond butter and jelly sandwich. [The little stinker needs to eat the lunch they pack for him the day before!]

She cranked up the oven to broil and put the Pumpkin Crisp/ Dump Cake on the TOP RACK! Of course, the next thing the family noticed was smoke billowing from the now blackened Pumpkin Crisp/ Dump Cake.

Our household spent Thanksgiving Day in community with the residents of Camp Quixote. First United Methodist Church, where the camp is now located, threw open its doors (and more importantly, its arms) and had a dinner for the camp, members of the church, and others who have supported the camp in one way or another. It was a day full of food, laughter and caring.

What a great day