Does New Seasons explicitly support the anti-slavery movement of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers ? How?
----
That was the very simple letter I just e-mailed to talktous at newseasonsmarket dot com - for, although Whole Foods is on board, along with A&W, Burger King, KFC, Long John Silver’s, McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, Subway and Taco Bell. It cost them a whole extra cent per pound of tomatoes. One penny per pound extra.
----
I'll post the answer here.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
On-Demand Street Lights Save $$ and Carbon Emissions
Here's a BBC video, at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7795492.stm which shows an eighty-one second video of how an innovative German town saves on street lighting by allowing local folks to turn on street lighting as needed from their phones. You might consider asking County Service District No. 5 or the County Sustainability Office to talk to PGE about a demo project.
Unlike the German project shown in the video, there's no reason why folks could not use landline or VOIP phones to call in to turn up the lights, no need to require the caller to have a cellphone.
Open Source software to run it like MySQL, Linux and Apache are free, and a server from Freegeek suitable to run them are free for the asking.
Each light pole could mount a custom cellphone device which, when the correct text message is received, turns the light on. I'm sure that PGE could get a very good rate for text-only service (based on what I know cellular companies charge large-volume customers) which, with the amortization of the cellular device and the service cost, would be cheaper than wasting power when not needed; and, in volume, the cellular controller would be much cheaper, too, than one-hundred-and-thirty quid.
Then, there's a little bonus; when these cellular devices go off the air, PGE knows the power has failed. Cellphones check in (they call this 'polling') every 30 seconds with a very short data burst on a control channel. PGE could use this data to more accurately determine power outages, and map them based on every streetlight in an area which is silent.
Unlike the German project shown in the video, there's no reason why folks could not use landline or VOIP phones to call in to turn up the lights, no need to require the caller to have a cellphone.
Open Source software to run it like MySQL, Linux and Apache are free, and a server from Freegeek suitable to run them are free for the asking.
Each light pole could mount a custom cellphone device which, when the correct text message is received, turns the light on. I'm sure that PGE could get a very good rate for text-only service (based on what I know cellular companies charge large-volume customers) which, with the amortization of the cellular device and the service cost, would be cheaper than wasting power when not needed; and, in volume, the cellular controller would be much cheaper, too, than one-hundred-and-thirty quid.
Then, there's a little bonus; when these cellular devices go off the air, PGE knows the power has failed. Cellphones check in (they call this 'polling') every 30 seconds with a very short data burst on a control channel. PGE could use this data to more accurately determine power outages, and map them based on every streetlight in an area which is silent.
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
All That Glitters Is Not at Cash4Gold
This blogger reports how Cash4Gold would like to recast... err, cover up their practice of offering one-quarter of what gold objects are worth... on the first offer, that is. His story shows how, if you refuse their first offer, they offer a fair and competitive offer... the price you could get by visiting a local pawn shop, only weeks later.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Credit card tricks documented
Visit the Get Rich Slowly blog for a list of credit card company tricks and how to counter them.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
DTV Conversion Day postponement?
June 12th looks like the new deadline for DTV conversion, says the NASDAQ newswire.
Senate Commerce Committee Chairman John Rockefeller, D-W.V., and committee ranking Republican Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas said their staffs are drafting a few changes to Rockefeller's proposal to postpone the digital switch until June 12.
{snip}
In the House, Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Henry Waxman, D-Calif., has introduced his own bill that would put off the digital TV transition until June 12. Waxman's bill also would extend the expiration date for all outstanding or not-yet-issued converter box coupons to Sept. 15. People who previously ordered coupons and didn't redeem them would be allowed to reapply.{snip}
Monday, January 12, 2009
Numbers to ignore: 506 or 062 Costa Rican robocalls
This company, representing themselves as "CardMember Services", but really in San José or Heredia in Costa Rica, calls with a robocall opening and a request to press 1 or 2. Pressing 2, as their prompt suggests to remove the called number, does not work; we keep getting calls on all our numbers.
Sometimes, caller ID drops the first digit of international calls, so you get "062" (not a valid country code at present).
The call is blandly phrased, purportedly about "our credit card balance" so someone unaware might think it was legitimate, but they fish for credit card information in order to switch us to another company.
Pressing 1 goes to an agent who always insists, in violation of the law, we need to re-register yearly. Asking that agent to put us on their Do Not Call list results in a hangup.
On the last call, I was told their offices are in Spokane WA. Unfortunately, the state-owned Grupo ICE or Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad and its subsidiary RACSA own all telephone switches, so trying to peel information away from a Banana Republic ministry is less than fruitful.
(data from Vonage call log)
Jan 12, 2009 at 01:09 PM using 506 2 209 9729
Dec 12, 2008 at 02:05 PM using 506 2 205 8435
Nov 06, 2008 at 12:05 PM using 506 2 234 659
Sep 08, 2008 at 05:15 PM using 506 2 272 4154
Jul 23, 2008 at 06:29 PM using 506 2 200 9870
Sometimes, caller ID drops the first digit of international calls, so you get "062" (not a valid country code at present).
The call is blandly phrased, purportedly about "our credit card balance" so someone unaware might think it was legitimate, but they fish for credit card information in order to switch us to another company.
Pressing 1 goes to an agent who always insists, in violation of the law, we need to re-register yearly. Asking that agent to put us on their Do Not Call list results in a hangup.
On the last call, I was told their offices are in Spokane WA. Unfortunately, the state-owned Grupo ICE or Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad and its subsidiary RACSA own all telephone switches, so trying to peel information away from a Banana Republic ministry is less than fruitful.
(data from Vonage call log)
Jan 12, 2009 at 01:09 PM using 506 2 209 9729
Dec 12, 2008 at 02:05 PM using 506 2 205 8435
Nov 06, 2008 at 12:05 PM using 506 2 234 659
Sep 08, 2008 at 05:15 PM using 506 2 272 4154
Jul 23, 2008 at 06:29 PM using 506 2 200 9870
KGW's Parent Company pushes for more Digital Conversion coupons
The Wall Street Journal reports Belo, the owners of KGW (Channel 8 in the old analog system) is pushing for more converter coupons. Meanwhile, police-fire-public safety folks want the frequencies which conversion to digital TV will give them, and they're lobbying for no delay in Conversion Day.
Clear about the Internet
Clearwire AKA 'Clear' opened up Metro Portland as its second city where individuals and businesses can get high speed wireless internet at reasonable cost, and after a cost analysis, we took the plunge.
The home service pricing below includes $5/mo to rent a Clear-only special 'modem.' You can buy instead of rent, but since hardware gets cheaper, we figured we'd rent at first... besides, if there's a failure, they're responsible for the 'modem' if they own it.
$25/mo provides up to 768 kbps down, 128 kbps up.
$35/mo provides up to 3,000 kbps down, 384 kbps up.
$35/mo provides up to 6,000 kbps down, 512 kbps up.
There's no $35 sign-up fee if you obligate for 2 years of service instead of month-to-month, and there's a seven day 'remorse' period for cancellation. There's also mobile service and business service, both spendier than home service.
The hookup took 5 minutes; plug in power, let it find the signal (two towers within a mile from Oatfield Hill), then unplug the DSL 'modem' and plug the ethernet cable from the DSL 'modem' into the back of the Clear box, then power cycle the WiFi router/switch. Did not have to make ANY changes in the settings of the WiFi router/switch.
Speedtest.net reported an average around 5,400 kbps down, 400 kbps up, which is not too shabby at all, better than advertised and better than the mean of 1,204 down, 588 up which $55/mo. DSL provides.
We'll still keep our landline, as we're belt+suspenders when it comes to calling 9-1-1, but the Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) line is probably going over to Clear when they're ready to start offering voice service, depending on the entire feature set once they're ready to talk about their $25 VOIP package. The salesrep in their Clackamas Promenade store, John L., knew his product, wasn't pushy, and was easy to deal with. He was able to show me the tower location and calculate whether it would work OK based on my street address, and said the metro area had been mapped with drive testers, street-by-street, to make sure those estimates were accurate.
Their other stores are at 1512 N.E. Broadway, the Uptown Shopping Center and 1233 N.W. Lovejoy, and they sell through oodles of dealers, e.g., Grate Computers in NoPo, Agility Computers in Gresham, Budget Computers in Beaverton, Gadget Guyz in Vancouver as well as numerous others.
The home service pricing below includes $5/mo to rent a Clear-only special 'modem.' You can buy instead of rent, but since hardware gets cheaper, we figured we'd rent at first... besides, if there's a failure, they're responsible for the 'modem' if they own it.
$25/mo provides up to 768 kbps down, 128 kbps up.
$35/mo provides up to 3,000 kbps down, 384 kbps up.
$35/mo provides up to 6,000 kbps down, 512 kbps up.
There's no $35 sign-up fee if you obligate for 2 years of service instead of month-to-month, and there's a seven day 'remorse' period for cancellation. There's also mobile service and business service, both spendier than home service.
The hookup took 5 minutes; plug in power, let it find the signal (two towers within a mile from Oatfield Hill), then unplug the DSL 'modem' and plug the ethernet cable from the DSL 'modem' into the back of the Clear box, then power cycle the WiFi router/switch. Did not have to make ANY changes in the settings of the WiFi router/switch.
Speedtest.net reported an average around 5,400 kbps down, 400 kbps up, which is not too shabby at all, better than advertised and better than the mean of 1,204 down, 588 up which $55/mo. DSL provides.
We'll still keep our landline, as we're belt+suspenders when it comes to calling 9-1-1, but the Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) line is probably going over to Clear when they're ready to start offering voice service, depending on the entire feature set once they're ready to talk about their $25 VOIP package. The salesrep in their Clackamas Promenade store, John L., knew his product, wasn't pushy, and was easy to deal with. He was able to show me the tower location and calculate whether it would work OK based on my street address, and said the metro area had been mapped with drive testers, street-by-street, to make sure those estimates were accurate.
Their other stores are at 1512 N.E. Broadway, the Uptown Shopping Center and 1233 N.W. Lovejoy, and they sell through oodles of dealers, e.g., Grate Computers in NoPo, Agility Computers in Gresham, Budget Computers in Beaverton, Gadget Guyz in Vancouver as well as numerous others.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Is your TV digital ready? And, no more converter discount coupons.
This National Association of Broadcasters web page allows you to enter the make and model of your TV set to find if it's digital-ready.
And, OBTW, it's official; the Feds have run out of converter coupons, says the NY Times. Yesterday's blog post reviewing the less-spendy converter boxes seems to have been a good idea.
Don't overlook post Number One on the Tele-Apocalypse which gives you a very simple flowchart to show what to do.
And, OBTW, it's official; the Feds have run out of converter coupons, says the NY Times. Yesterday's blog post reviewing the less-spendy converter boxes seems to have been a good idea.
Don't overlook post Number One on the Tele-Apocalypse which gives you a very simple flowchart to show what to do.
Friday, January 09, 2009
Questions and Answers about Digital TV Converters
Q: I need an explanation in another language. Where can I find that?
A: https://www.dtv2009.gov/
Q: When does conversion happen?
A: It happens Tuesday, February 17th, by Federal law.
Q: Why?
A: Digital channels can fit closer together without interfering, so the Federal government can sell the old frequencies to use for police, fire, public service, and new cellular data services. Sometimes, reception quality improves even on older analog-only sets using converters. There are other advantages to television stations; they can split their channels into sub-channels and have multiple signals with different programming.
Q: What does a converter do?
A: All converters receive the digital signals from new transmitters and convert the signals to analog so they can be used with older TVs and VCRs.
Q: Are all the stations ready now?
A: Most stations have digital signals, plus analog signals, now. The digital signals are now on different channels to avoid interfering with analog channels. Some major stations will switch on February 17th. Some small stations will stay on analog channels, but only small channels and small transmitters. Here's a chart which shows channels now and after for Portland.
Q: Do I need a converter if I have an HDTV set or a Digital-Ready Set?
A: No.
Q: Do I need a converter if I have cable TV?
A: If you use cable TV, you don't need a converter. The cable system handles conversion for you.
Q: Do I need a converter if I have satellite TV?
A: If you use satellite TV, you don't need a converter. The satellite system handles conversion for you.
Q: Do I need a converter if my building has a community or shared antenna?
A: Maybe, so check with your building management to ask if they will be doing the digital-to-analog conversion for you.
Q: I use 'rabbit ears' or an indoor antenna now. Do I need an outdoor antenna for the converter?
A: Maybe. My next blog post on this subject will explain how to estimate if you do. Many indoor antennas will work well in the Portland Metro area, especially if you can see Council Crest from home. There is no 'digital' antenna; the same antenna design works for digital as analog, but you may need a better antenna because your favorite stations are changing to UHF from VHF (like our ABC and CBS affiliates) or because digital requires a better quality of signal; snow now equals problems later.
Q: I use an outdoor antenna now. Do I need to change it?
A: Maybe, see above.
Q: What are the rules for the converter coupon program?
A: You must buy a converter on the NTIA approved list after getting a coupon.
http://www.ntia.doc.gov/dtvcoupon/rules.html explains more and lists a phone number.
Q: Must I have a coupon to get a converter?
A: No. If you don't use a coupon, you can buy whatever converter you wish.
Q: How much does the coupon get me?
A $40 credit on the spot from participating dealers.
Q: Are all converters $40?
A: No, some have extra features and are as spendy as $300.
Q: Which converter boxes are NTIA-approved?
A: They're listed at https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm - see the next item.
Q: What are the NTIA-approved converters available for sale nowadays? What makes and model numbers can be bought with coupons?
A: Here's a list. * = Manufacturer says it has Analog Pass-Through.
AccessHD: DTA1020D, DTA1020U, DTA1010D, DTA1010U, DTA1020AD *, DTA1030D *, DTA1050D *, DTA1080D *, DTA1080U *
Airlink101: ATVC102 *, ATVC101
Alpha Digital: AT2016
AMTC: AT2001
Apex: DT1001, DT250 *, DT502 *, DTA250A *
Artec: T3A, T3AP *, T3AP Pro *, T3APro
Cadence: DTVC-9
CASTi: CAX-03 *
Channel Master: CM-7000
Cleartech: CT DCB100A *
Coby: DTV-102 *
ComponexX: CX-900A *
Coship: N9900T, N9901T *, N9988T
Craig: CVD506 *, CVD508 *
Digital Steam: DSP6500C *, DSP7500T, DSP7700P *, DSP7700T *, DTX9900, DTX9900D, DTX9950 *, DX8700 *
Dish Network: DTVPal Plus *, DTVPal *, TR-40CRA *
GE: 22729, 22730, 23333 *, 23334 *
Goodmind: DTA1000, DTA1100 *
Gridlink: GLT-200
iNet Access: SSR 1921 *
Insignia: NS-DXA1, NS-DXA1-APT * (Note: A BestBuy house brand)
Kingbox: K8V1
Lasonic: LTA-260
Magnavox: TB-100MG9 *, TB100MW9, TB100MW9A *, TB110MW9 *, TB110MW9A *
MaxMedia: LuTRO *
Memorex: MVCB1000 *
MicroGEM: MG2000
Philco: TB100HH9 *, TB150HH9 *
RCA: DTA 800B, DTA800B1 *, DTA809 *, STB7766G1 *
Sansonic: FT300A
Spica: AT 2018 *
Sunkey: SK-801ATSC *
Tivax: STB-T8 *, STB-T9
Venturer: STB7766G
Winegard: RCDT09A *, RC-DT09
Zenith: DTT900, DTT901 *
Zentech: DF2000, EZTV DF2000L *
Zinwell: ZAT-857, ZAT-950A *, ZAT-970, ZAT-970A *
Q: What are important features?
A: You may find some of these important:
1) Analog Pass-Through, so you can easily switch to low-power channels which can still transmit analog after 2/17, and to switch to stations which won't go digital before 2/17 if you install before then.
2) An improved Electronic Program Guide (EPG), so you can search for programs you want and find the channel they're on now, as well as find program details.
3) Resistance to interference from VCR, DVD player, and other electronics.
4) Remote control to let you switch in and out of 'letterbox' mode.
5) Complete with a coaxial cable from converter to TV, a 'balun' adapter from flat antenna wire to the cable TV-stype "F" connector on the back of the converter, and a video+stereo cable to attach to a VCR or TV video and audio in sockets.
6) A longer warranty with local or very fast exchange if it fails. However, buying an 'extended' warranty is not recommended, for most electronic devices, if they're going to fail, fail soon after installation.
Q: What are the converters with the best reviews?
A: Here's what I found in a search for reviews I thought were worthwhile reading.
The DIGITAL STREAM DTX9900 http://www.hdtvexpert.com/pages_b/DTVconverters.html remembers channels you scanned for before and was sharper than brand-name competitors.
The DISH NETWORK TR40-CRA http://www.dishnetwork.com/dtvpal/tr40CRA.shtml is $40, hass Analog Pass-Through, and was liked for its advanced EPG (Electronic Program Guide).
The INSIGNIA NS-DXA1 http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2008/06/dtv-converter-1.html was essentially the same than the DIGITAL STREAM DTX9900.
The MICROGEM MG2000 http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2008/06/dtv-converter-1.html was small but sharp.
The MAGNAVOX TB100MW9 http://reviews.cnet.com/tv-hdtv-tuners-receivers/magnavox-tb100mw9/4505-6487_7-33255284.html?tag=mncol;lst is a basic converter with good resistance to interference http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/electronics-computers/tvs-services/non-digital-tvs/digital-converter-boxes/digital-tv-converter-boxes-first-look-3-08/overview/digital-tv-converter-boxes-first-look.htm and is only $25.
The PHILCO TB100HH9 http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2008/06/dtv-converter-1.html is a simple converter with pass-through.
The RCA DTA-800 http://reviews.cnet.com/tv-hdtv-tuners-receivers/rca-dta800/4505-6487_7-32887593.html?tag=mncol;lst has good reception, respectable video quality, and a basic EPG.
The RCA DTA-800B1 http://reviews.cnet.com/tv-hdtv-tuners-receivers/rca-dta800b1/4505-6487_7-33280761.html adds its own remote control for analog pass-through switching.
The TIVAX STB-T9 http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2008/06/dtv-converter-1.html was praised for its clarity and an improved Electronic Program Guide which shows details abou each show, not just the bare listings.
Other reviews are found at http://www.hdtvantennalabs.com/converters/reviews.php
My next post on this topic is an explanation of how anyone mechanically handy with a few hand tools can make Do-It-Yourself antennas from recycled or inexpensive materials that rival the reception from spendy store-bought antennas.
A: https://www.dtv2009.gov/
Q: When does conversion happen?
A: It happens Tuesday, February 17th, by Federal law.
Q: Why?
A: Digital channels can fit closer together without interfering, so the Federal government can sell the old frequencies to use for police, fire, public service, and new cellular data services. Sometimes, reception quality improves even on older analog-only sets using converters. There are other advantages to television stations; they can split their channels into sub-channels and have multiple signals with different programming.
Q: What does a converter do?
A: All converters receive the digital signals from new transmitters and convert the signals to analog so they can be used with older TVs and VCRs.
Q: Are all the stations ready now?
A: Most stations have digital signals, plus analog signals, now. The digital signals are now on different channels to avoid interfering with analog channels. Some major stations will switch on February 17th. Some small stations will stay on analog channels, but only small channels and small transmitters. Here's a chart which shows channels now and after for Portland.
Q: Do I need a converter if I have an HDTV set or a Digital-Ready Set?
A: No.
Q: Do I need a converter if I have cable TV?
A: If you use cable TV, you don't need a converter. The cable system handles conversion for you.
Q: Do I need a converter if I have satellite TV?
A: If you use satellite TV, you don't need a converter. The satellite system handles conversion for you.
Q: Do I need a converter if my building has a community or shared antenna?
A: Maybe, so check with your building management to ask if they will be doing the digital-to-analog conversion for you.
Q: I use 'rabbit ears' or an indoor antenna now. Do I need an outdoor antenna for the converter?
A: Maybe. My next blog post on this subject will explain how to estimate if you do. Many indoor antennas will work well in the Portland Metro area, especially if you can see Council Crest from home. There is no 'digital' antenna; the same antenna design works for digital as analog, but you may need a better antenna because your favorite stations are changing to UHF from VHF (like our ABC and CBS affiliates) or because digital requires a better quality of signal; snow now equals problems later.
Q: I use an outdoor antenna now. Do I need to change it?
A: Maybe, see above.
Q: What are the rules for the converter coupon program?
A: You must buy a converter on the NTIA approved list after getting a coupon.
http://www.ntia.doc.gov/dtvcoupon/rules.html explains more and lists a phone number.
Q: Must I have a coupon to get a converter?
A: No. If you don't use a coupon, you can buy whatever converter you wish.
Q: How much does the coupon get me?
A $40 credit on the spot from participating dealers.
Q: Are all converters $40?
A: No, some have extra features and are as spendy as $300.
Q: Which converter boxes are NTIA-approved?
A: They're listed at https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm - see the next item.
Q: What are the NTIA-approved converters available for sale nowadays? What makes and model numbers can be bought with coupons?
A: Here's a list. * = Manufacturer says it has Analog Pass-Through.
AccessHD: DTA1020D, DTA1020U, DTA1010D, DTA1010U, DTA1020AD *, DTA1030D *, DTA1050D *, DTA1080D *, DTA1080U *
Airlink101: ATVC102 *, ATVC101
Alpha Digital: AT2016
AMTC: AT2001
Apex: DT1001, DT250 *, DT502 *, DTA250A *
Artec: T3A, T3AP *, T3AP Pro *, T3APro
Cadence: DTVC-9
CASTi: CAX-03 *
Channel Master: CM-7000
Cleartech: CT DCB100A *
Coby: DTV-102 *
ComponexX: CX-900A *
Coship: N9900T, N9901T *, N9988T
Craig: CVD506 *, CVD508 *
Digital Steam: DSP6500C *, DSP7500T, DSP7700P *, DSP7700T *, DTX9900, DTX9900D, DTX9950 *, DX8700 *
Dish Network: DTVPal Plus *, DTVPal *, TR-40CRA *
GE: 22729, 22730, 23333 *, 23334 *
Goodmind: DTA1000, DTA1100 *
Gridlink: GLT-200
iNet Access: SSR 1921 *
Insignia: NS-DXA1, NS-DXA1-APT * (Note: A BestBuy house brand)
Kingbox: K8V1
Lasonic: LTA-260
Magnavox: TB-100MG9 *, TB100MW9, TB100MW9A *, TB110MW9 *, TB110MW9A *
MaxMedia: LuTRO *
Memorex: MVCB1000 *
MicroGEM: MG2000
Philco: TB100HH9 *, TB150HH9 *
RCA: DTA 800B, DTA800B1 *, DTA809 *, STB7766G1 *
Sansonic: FT300A
Spica: AT 2018 *
Sunkey: SK-801ATSC *
Tivax: STB-T8 *, STB-T9
Venturer: STB7766G
Winegard: RCDT09A *, RC-DT09
Zenith: DTT900, DTT901 *
Zentech: DF2000, EZTV DF2000L *
Zinwell: ZAT-857, ZAT-950A *, ZAT-970, ZAT-970A *
Q: What are important features?
A: You may find some of these important:
1) Analog Pass-Through, so you can easily switch to low-power channels which can still transmit analog after 2/17, and to switch to stations which won't go digital before 2/17 if you install before then.
2) An improved Electronic Program Guide (EPG), so you can search for programs you want and find the channel they're on now, as well as find program details.
3) Resistance to interference from VCR, DVD player, and other electronics.
4) Remote control to let you switch in and out of 'letterbox' mode.
5) Complete with a coaxial cable from converter to TV, a 'balun' adapter from flat antenna wire to the cable TV-stype "F" connector on the back of the converter, and a video+stereo cable to attach to a VCR or TV video and audio in sockets.
6) A longer warranty with local or very fast exchange if it fails. However, buying an 'extended' warranty is not recommended, for most electronic devices, if they're going to fail, fail soon after installation.
Q: What are the converters with the best reviews?
A: Here's what I found in a search for reviews I thought were worthwhile reading.
The DIGITAL STREAM DTX9900 http://www.hdtvexpert.com/pages_b/DTVconverters.html remembers channels you scanned for before and was sharper than brand-name competitors.
The DISH NETWORK TR40-CRA http://www.dishnetwork.com/dtvpal/tr40CRA.shtml is $40, hass Analog Pass-Through, and was liked for its advanced EPG (Electronic Program Guide).
The INSIGNIA NS-DXA1 http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2008/06/dtv-converter-1.html was essentially the same than the DIGITAL STREAM DTX9900.
The MICROGEM MG2000 http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2008/06/dtv-converter-1.html was small but sharp.
The MAGNAVOX TB100MW9 http://reviews.cnet.com/tv-hdtv-tuners-receivers/magnavox-tb100mw9/4505-6487_7-33255284.html?tag=mncol;lst is a basic converter with good resistance to interference http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/electronics-computers/tvs-services/non-digital-tvs/digital-converter-boxes/digital-tv-converter-boxes-first-look-3-08/overview/digital-tv-converter-boxes-first-look.htm and is only $25.
The PHILCO TB100HH9 http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2008/06/dtv-converter-1.html is a simple converter with pass-through.
The RCA DTA-800 http://reviews.cnet.com/tv-hdtv-tuners-receivers/rca-dta800/4505-6487_7-32887593.html?tag=mncol;lst has good reception, respectable video quality, and a basic EPG.
The RCA DTA-800B1 http://reviews.cnet.com/tv-hdtv-tuners-receivers/rca-dta800b1/4505-6487_7-33280761.html adds its own remote control for analog pass-through switching.
The TIVAX STB-T9 http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2008/06/dtv-converter-1.html was praised for its clarity and an improved Electronic Program Guide which shows details abou each show, not just the bare listings.
Other reviews are found at http://www.hdtvantennalabs.com/converters/reviews.php
My next post on this topic is an explanation of how anyone mechanically handy with a few hand tools can make Do-It-Yourself antennas from recycled or inexpensive materials that rival the reception from spendy store-bought antennas.
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Best Hospitals in Metro Portland - None of them in Clackamas Co.
A Wall Street Journal article on rating hospitals led me to WhyNotTheBest.com which, as per the WSJ, is
So, here's the ranking, using all rating measures, scoring two As, seven Bs, one C and one Incomplete.
Grade A
Grade C
Grade Incomplete
You may not care about some of the measures... if you're going under the knife for knee surgery, you may not care if the staff if friendly. I do, but you can roll your own stats by going to WhyNotTheBest.com and selecting your own things to rate by.
Now, here's more data. Click below to see all the graphs for all the above hospitals, trimmed and then concatenated, far sharper than the thumbnailed graphic would indicate.
* Obviously, there's a LOT of non-reporting going on, since the total count of hospitals is nowhere near the actual number of hospitals in the country. Why? Reporting is still voluntary. Ask your state legislator why.)
... from the nonprofit Commonwealth Fund (and) compares care at 4,500* hospitals nationwide, using data from Medicare's Hospital Compare Web site and the federal government's Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems survey.
So, here's the ranking, using all rating measures, scoring two As, seven Bs, one C and one Incomplete.
Grade A
- 93.6% Providence St Vincent <-- Ranked 373rd/2,052 hospitals nationwide scored in the top 10% *
- 93.0% Providence Portland
- 89.3% Kaiser Sunnyside
- 88.9% Adventist
- 86.9% OHSU
- 85.4% Legacy Good Samaritan
- 83.7% Legacy Meridian Park
- 82.5% Tuality Community
- 81.8% Legacy Emanuel
Grade C
- 77.7% Willamette Falls
Grade Incomplete
- Providence Milwaukie - despite having 77 beds, they could not, or did not, report 30 or more outcomes, so their data is incomplete.
You may not care about some of the measures... if you're going under the knife for knee surgery, you may not care if the staff if friendly. I do, but you can roll your own stats by going to WhyNotTheBest.com and selecting your own things to rate by.
Now, here's more data. Click below to see all the graphs for all the above hospitals, trimmed and then concatenated, far sharper than the thumbnailed graphic would indicate.
* Obviously, there's a LOT of non-reporting going on, since the total count of hospitals is nowhere near the actual number of hospitals in the country. Why? Reporting is still voluntary. Ask your state legislator why.)
What to do about Digital TV conversion?
Update: Reuters says a shortage of discount coupons is likely. Get yours now! Sorry, converter coupons are not available. Folks who ask now are waitlisted with no promise they'll get coupons, says the NY Times.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT DIGITAL TV CONVERSION
Thanks to The Consumerist blog for this diagram.
If your set is NOT digital-ready, then you will need to buy a converter IF and only if you don't have satellite or cable.Call 888-DTV-2009 or go to www.DTV.gov and provide your name and address to get $40-off coupons. Move fast, as coupons could run out.
Many Portland-area channels will change their channel numbers. Click on the chart below to see it enlarged and sharper.
Since the list above shows every VHF station in Metro Portland will also have a UHF channel, you can go UHF-only, and therefore a VHF antenna isn't needed.
Below, please find a model antenna made for less than $10 in materials. Specifics on antenna design will follow over the next few days.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT DIGITAL TV CONVERSION
Thanks to The Consumerist blog for this diagram.
If your set is NOT digital-ready, then you will need to buy a converter IF and only if you don't have satellite or cable.
Many Portland-area channels will change their channel numbers. Click on the chart below to see it enlarged and sharper.
Since the list above shows every VHF station in Metro Portland will also have a UHF channel, you can go UHF-only, and therefore a VHF antenna isn't needed.
Below, please find a model antenna made for less than $10 in materials. Specifics on antenna design will follow over the next few days.
Friday, December 26, 2008
State law on ID with checks, credit card rules
Here's a handy link to the section of Oregon's Revised Statutes which explains what a merchant can do when you pay by check.
Also, merchants are contractually obligated not to refuse a sale by credit card without ID.
Also, merchants are contractually obligated not to refuse a sale by credit card without ID.
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Lime-lit Democracy
Sodium floodlights illume voters queued up in the rain, to drop off their ballots at the Multnomah Co. Elections office at Morrison & SE 11th in Portland, OR, the day before the election at 6PM. That's dedication in democracy.
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Sentenced to School
http://www.paulgraham.com/nerds.html
http://www.economist.com/business/displaystory.cfm?story_id=11535645
Think about it.
Where would you rather have been sent to as a teen?
http://www.economist.com/business/displaystory.cfm?story_id=11535645
Think about it.
Where would you rather have been sent to as a teen?
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Worst restaurants of Milwaukie, Oak Grove and Gladstone
I've also been the victim of gut-busting, agonizing pain from food poisoning so bad I spent three days in hospital. Think about these eateries and their inspection scores, and then consider, the next time you visit them, asking what they've done to make sure they ace the inspection next time.
http://www.clackamas.us/community_health/eh/restaurants.htm explains how the rating system works. Critical issues cost 4 or 5 points, whereas lesser failures to protect your health only 1 or 2 points. Points for repeat offenses of both kinds are doubled. Italicized results below are the result of a complaint to the health department (503-655-8384) and the subsequent inspection.
You can click on the title of this post for an updated list of restaurants and scores, or get scores for any other food service establishment in the county.
And, now for the Hall of Shame:
And, these eateries get an honorable mention, for they scored 97-99 points, which means they could not have had a major violation. Not perfect (and, why not, one might ask?) but nothing major:
http://www.clackamas.us/community_health/eh/restaurants.htm explains how the rating system works. Critical issues cost 4 or 5 points, whereas lesser failures to protect your health only 1 or 2 points. Points for repeat offenses of both kinds are doubled. Italicized results below are the result of a complaint to the health department (503-655-8384) and the subsequent inspection.
You can click on the title of this post for an updated list of restaurants and scores, or get scores for any other food service establishment in the county.
And, now for the Hall of Shame:
| Score | Restaurant | Inspected | ||
| 70 | Dragon Inn Rest. | 14411 SE Mcloughlin | 503-659-9686 | 02/14 |
| 77 | Chan's Steakery | 10477 SE Main St | 503-653-2709 | 12/17 |
| 77 | Domenic's Bar & Grill | 16065 SE Mcloughlin | 503-654-6969 | 11/06 |
| 79 | Chopsticks Express I | 10801 SE Main St #0 | 503-659-2950 | 05/13 |
82 | Panda Buffet | 16251 SE Mcloughlin | 503-652-0515 | 05/09 |
| 82 | Tartan & Thistle | 11050 SE 21st | 503-657-1507 | 11/19 |
| 82 | Winchells Donuts | 19500 Mcloughlin | 503-657-3197 | 01/16 |
| 83 | Chan's Garden Rest. | 14790 SE Webster Rd | 503-652-2828 | 11/19 |
| 85 | Casa De Tamales | 10605 SE Main St | 503-654-4423 | 02/26 |
| 85 | Dolphin Seafood Rest. | 17180 SE Mcloughlin | 503-654-9366 | 02/14 |
| 85 | Mai Wah Rest. | 18088 SE Mcloughlin | 503-659-0323 | 05/13 |
| 85 | Oak Grove Bar & Grill | 2099 SE Oak Grove Blvd | 503-654-6343 | 12/10 |
| 85 | Panaderia Cinco De Mayo 2 | 17419 SE Mcloughlin | 503-998-2960 | 12/18 |
| 85 | Super Burrito Express | 10546 SE 42nd | 503-786-9370 | 05/13 |
| 85 | Hong Kong 97 | 17405 SE Mcloughlin | 503-654-3336 | 04/08 |
| 86 | Arrivederci Wine & Gifts | 17025 SE Mcloughlin | 503-781-3873 | 04/22 |
| 86 | Porterhouse Rest & Par Lng | 14611 SE Mcloughlin | 503-794-9450 | 05/13 |
| 86 | Soy Grill | 20010 Mc Loughlin Blvd | 503-655-5780 | 03/24 |
| 87 | El Tapatio Rest. | 15192 SE Mcloughlin | 503-659-8654 | 03/17 |
| 87 | Int'l Hse o'Pancakes 681 | 14617 SE Mcloughlin | 503-653-2710 | 03/17 |
| 87 | McGrath's Publ Fish Hse | 11050 SE Oak St | 503-653-8070 | 05/13 |
| 88 | Hartwell's | 10608 SE Main St | 503-387-5866 | 05 |
| 88 | Lew's Drive Inn | 14911 SE Mcloughlin | 503-654-6648 | 03/17 |
| 88 | Wichita Pub | 6106 SE King Rd | 503-654-4201 | 04/18 |
| 89 | Brew Bar & Grill | 10933 SE Main Street | 503-653-6369 | 12/19 |
| 89 | Buster's TX Style B-B-Q | 17883 E Mcloughlin | 503-652-1076 | 05/09 |
| 89 | Chang's Mongolian Grill | 18925 SE Mcloughlin | 503-655-2323 | 05/08 |
| 89 | Gaffers Pub | 18515 Webster Rd | 503-516-5295 | 03/16 |
| 89 | Kwang Chow Rest. | 7980 SE King Rd | 503-659-1160 | 12/26 |
| 89 | Mekong Thai Cuisine | 10880 SE Mcloughlin | 503-594-2888 | 12/05 |
| 89 | Stanley's Corner | 19905 SE Mcloughlin | 503-655-5544 | 04/23 |
| 89 | Subway #10335 | 19516 SE Mcloughlin | 503-803-4923 | 01/16 |
| 89 | Wind Horse Coff & Tea | 10611 SE Main St | 503-659-1000 | 02/25 |
| 90 | High Rocks Pub | 915 E Arlington | 503-656-1111 | 04/13 |
| 90 | Mike's Drive In | 3045 SE Harrison St | 503-654-0131 | 04/28 |
| 90 | Sharis Rest. | 11030 SE Oak St | 503-652-4035 | 03/31 |
| 90 | Taco Bell #4088 | 11000 SE Oak St | 503-659-2960 | 02/19 |
| 91 | Elk Rock Bar & Grill | 14211 SE Mcloughlin | 503-786-0410 | 04/17 |
| 91 | Historic Broetje House | 3101 SE Courtney | 503-659-8860 | 04/22 |
| 91 | Imperial Garden Rest. | 15350 SE Mcloughlin | 503-654-1280 | 03/17 |
| 91 | Pizza Schmizza | 14624 & Sstreet & | 503-496-0873 | 04/28 |
| 91 | Ranch Tavern | 18601 SE Mcloughlin | 503-653-9152 | 02/25 |
| 91 | Stuart Anderson's Cattle Co | 16323 SE Mcloughlin | 503-653-2700 | 12/17 |
| 91 | Vogies Bar, Llc | 464 Portland Ave | 503-657-3626 | 03/16 |
| 92 | Gladstone Card Room | 420 Portland Ave | 503-657-1977 | 03/16 |
| 92 | Kentucky Fried Chik313 | 14715 SE Mcloughlin | 503-659-2580 | 02/14 |
| 92 | Mi Pueblo | 10543 SE Fuller Rd | 503-653-4194 | 05/08 |
| 92 | Quizno's | 10983 SE Oak St #107 | 503-594-2118 | 04/24 |
| 92 | River Road House Pub | 11921 SE 22nd | 503-653-5885 | 12/27 |
| 92 | Roake's | 18103 SE Mcloughlin | 503-654-7075 | 03/17 |
| 93 | Big Town Hero | 4630 SE Int'l. Wy #201 | 503-652-5428 | 04/24 |
| 93 | Dominos Pizza - McLouglin | 15117 SE Mcloughlin | 503-659-4950 | 04/29 |
| 93 | Foxy's | 11094 SE Main St | 503-654-8800 | 01/15 |
| 93 | G-G's Rest. | 15717 SE Mcloughlin | 503-659-5553 | 04/18 |
| 93 | Healing Place Cafe | 10330 SE 32nd Ave | 503-513-8342 | 02/06 |
| 93 | Lacey's Bomber Inn | 13515 SE Mcloughlin | 503-659-9306 | 12/05 |
| 93 | Libbeys Rest. | 11056 SE Main St | 503-653-2044 | 03/13 |
| 93 | Maddy's | 18080 SE Mcloughlin | 503-786-4761 | 01/10 |
| 93 | Oak Grove Cinemas | 16100 SE Mcloughlin | 503-653-3511 | 02/14 |
| 93 | Wendy's - Milwaukie | 17217 SE Mcloughlin | 503-653-2472 | 04/08 |
| 93 | Wongs Garden | 10820 SE Oak St | 503-794-2879 | 12/17 |
| 94 | Amadeus Manor | 2122 SE Sparrow St | 503-659-1735 | 11/29 |
| 94 | Cha Cha Cha Mexican Taqr | 11008 SE Main St | 503-659-2193 | 02/26 |
| 94 | Econolodge | 17330 SE Mc Loughlin | 503-654-2222 | 05/14 |
| 94 | Gladstone Lanes | 20100 SE Mcloughlin | 503-656-4266 | 02/20 |
| 94 | Got Curry | 2818 SE Park Ave | 503-652-4050 | 12/31 |
| 94 | Little Caesar's Pizza | 17038 SE Mcloughlin | 971-570-2504 | 02/14 |
| 94 | Pogys #3 | 17185 SE Mcloughlin #h | 503-652-0120 | 02/25 |
| 94 | Red Brick Pizza | 10843 SE Oak St Suite 106 | 503-702-7422 | 05/06 |
| 94 | Tonys Bistro | 6400 SE Lake Rd #101 | 503-353-8900 | 11/27 |
| 95 | Amer Legion Post #180 | 2146 SE Monroe | 503-659-1300 | 12/28 |
| 95 | Da Vinci's Italiano Ristorante | 12615 SE Mcloughlin | 503-659-3547 | 05/08 |
| 95 | Drift On Inn Bar & Grill | 12611 SE Mcloughlin | 503-652-7966 | 01/15 |
| 95 | Figaros | 18911 Portland Ave | 503-656-5556 | 02/25 |
| 95 | Happy Rock Coffee Co | 465 Portland Ave | 503-650-4876 | 04/13 |
| 95 | Mcdonalds - Gladstone | 820 E Berkeley | 503-557-9951 | 02 |
| 95 | Mcdonalds - Johnsn Crk | 8151 SE Lamphier | 503-774-2960 | 04/08 |
| 95 | Mcdonalds - Mcloughlin | 15870 SE Mcloughlin | 503-654-6268 | 03/10 |
| 95 | Mcdonalds - Milwaukie | 10970 SE Oak | 503-659-0979 | 03/17 |
| 95 | Milwaukie Luth Church | 3810 SE Lake Rd-6097 | 503-653-0250 | 02/20 |
| 95 | Mo Betta Deli | 6110 SE King Rd | 503-653-5487 | 04/18 |
| 95 | Rigoberto's Taco Shop | 15855 SE Mcloughlin | 503-659-8124 | 12/18 |
| 95 | St John The Bapt Chrch | 10955 SE 25th Ave | 503-654-5449 | 01/17 |
| 95 | Subway - Milwaukie | 15031 SE Mcloughlin | 503-786-1660 | 03/17 |
| 95 | Tods Pizza Pit Stop | 17254 SE Mcloughlin | 503-654-5555 | 02/25 |
| 95 | Waterfalls Cafe | 12705 SE River Rd | 503-652-6330 | 01/18 |
| 96 | Cafe Bon Jour | 4360 SE Int'l. Way #200 | 503-697-3242 | 04/11 |
| 96 | Dominos Pizza -32nd Av | 10586 SE 32nd Ave | 503-659-5585 | 01/15 |
| 96 | Dottys #10 | 10812-B SE Oak St | 503-786-2516 | 01/10 |
| 96 | G G's Delicatessen | 15717 Mcnerthney Ent Inc | 503-654-2428 | 01/14 |
| 96 | Hong Kong 97 | 6128 SE King Road Suite B | 503-786-4567 | 04/18 |
| 96 | Larry's Rest. | 8081 SE King Rd | 503-771-0216 | 03/10 |
| 96 | Pete's Lair Tavern | 17720 SE Mcloughlin | 503-652-1430 | 03/17 |
| 96 | St Johns Episc Church | 2036 SE Jefferson | 503-653-5880 | 02/20 |
| 96 | Sushi Kata Japanese Rest | 13809 SE Mcloughlin | 503-653-0302 | 12/18 |
| 96 | Taco Bell #19200 | 16300 SE Mcloughlin | 503-654-8097 | 02/19 |
And, these eateries get an honorable mention, for they scored 97-99 points, which means they could not have had a major violation. Not perfect (and, why not, one might ask?) but nothing major:
| 97 | Bo's Pub & Eatery | 18650 SE Mcloughlin | 503-652-0302 | 04/11 |
| 97 | Great Amer Video & Esprsso | 6130 SE King Rd | 503-794-9573 | 04/21 |
| 97 | Happy Cafe | 4620 SE Int'l. Way #100 | 503-654-2488 | 12/18 |
| 97 | Main Street Soda Fountain | 10909 SE Main St | 503-659-7632 | 03/10 |
| 97 | Pietro's Pizza | 10300 SE Main St | 503-659-7770 | 04/08 |
| 98 | Burgerville #8 | 19119 SE Mcloughlin | 503-655-3932 | 03/17 |
| 98 | Christ The King Parrish | 7414 SE Michael Dr | 503-659-1475 | 01/1 |
| 98 | Dottys #20 | 1503 SE Mcloughlin | 503-652-7221 | 01/29 |
| 98 | El Taco Loco | 4607 SE Boardmand Ave | 503-653-1715 | 02/27 |
| 98 | Flying Pie Pizzeria Milwaukie | 16691 SE Mcloughlin | 503-496-3170 | 03/10 |
| 98 | Grove Rest. And Bar, The | 15300 SE Mcloughlin | 503-653-1930 | 12/10 |
| 98 | Hale's Breakfast & Lunch | 17502 SE Mcloughlin | 503-659-7566 | 04/22 |
| 98 | Lucky Lady Deli | 16690 SE Mclouglin Blvd | 503-786-5165 | 04/02 |
| 98 | Milwaukie Cinemas | 11011 SE Main | 503-653-2222 | 03/13 |
| 98 | Oak Grove Coffeehouse | 2144 SE Oak Grove Blvd | 503-654-4389 | 03/04 |
| 98 | Original Philly's | 17252 SE Mcloughlin | 503-594-0303 | 02/25 |
| 98 | Pizza Hut #2857 | 19640 Mcloughlin | 503-722-8834 | 01/16 |
| 98 | Providence Milw Hosp | 10150 SE 32nd Ave | 503-652-8300 | 04/21 |
| 98 | Starbucks Coffee #3374 | 10826 SE Oak St | 503-652-7962 | 01/10 |
| 98 | Subway - Milw Mktplace | 10818A SE Oak St | 503-653-2100 | 02/19 |
| 98 | Tebos Rest. | 19120 SE Mcloughlin | 503-655-6333 | 03/13 |
| 98 | The Deli | 4160 SE Int'l. Way #d10 | 503-786-9388 | 03/31 |
| 99 | Baskin Robbins - Milwaukie | 13735 SE Mcloughlin | 503-654-2474 | 04/29 |
| 99 | Dillinger's Pub Inc. | 13305 SE Mcloughlin | 503-652-8702 | 02/14 |
| 99 | Great Waldo & Peper Warehs | 13515 SE Mcloughlin | 503-513-4949 | 01/28 |
| 99 | Jack In The Box #7123 | 14811 SE Mcloughlin | 503-353-9435 | 02/14 |
| 99 | Quizno's | 18040 SE Mcloughlin | 503-652-1633 | 01/10 |
| 99 | Starbucks Coffee #434 | 14620 SE Mcloughlin | 503-659-3653 | 01/14 |
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Best Restaurants of Milwukie, Oak Grove and Gladstone
Best, why? Because they aced their last health department inspection.
Folks, I've worked in public health, and some of the prettiest, cleanest-looking restaurants can be public health menaces. I think these establishments deserve kudos for getting it 100% right.
Tomorrow, I'll post the rest, including the Hall of Shame...
Folks, I've worked in public health, and some of the prettiest, cleanest-looking restaurants can be public health menaces. I think these establishments deserve kudos for getting it 100% right.
Tomorrow, I'll post the rest, including the Hall of Shame...
| Amis Coffee Buzz | 13119 SE Mcloughlin Bl | 503-657-4975 | 03/12 |
| Bally Total Fitness | 4330 SE International Way | 503-653-0377 | 01/17 |
| Baskin Robbins | 19510 SE Mcloughlin Blvd | 503-656-0311 | 01/16 |
| Bistro Catering | 6025 SE Alderhill Loop | 503-659-6216 | 05/14 |
| Clackamas Rvr Racquet Club | 790 82nd Drive | 503-657-1806 | 01/22 |
| Desert Inn | 14535 SE Mcloughlin | 503-654-6380 | 01/10 |
| Doll House Tea Room, The | 3223 SE Risley Ave | 503-653-6809 | 11/28 |
| East Side Athletic Club | 4606 SE Boardman | 503-659-3845 | 02/27 |
| Foxy's | 15224 SE Mcloughlin | 503-353-6885 | 01/10 |
| Frog Thai Cuisine, The | 18601 SE Mcloughlin Bl #b | 503-786-8893 | 12/26 |
| Full Gospel Comm Church | 4007 SE Llewellyn | 503-774-2663 | 04/02 |
| Gladstone Senior Center | 1050 Portland Ave | 503-655-7701 | 01/30 |
| Gray Gables Estate | 3009 SE Chestnut St | 503-654-0470 | 04/02 |
| Happy Restaurant | 270 Portland Ave | 503-657-4097 | 04/22 |
| Holly Station | 3610 SE Concord | 503-724-9896 | 04/02 |
| J Gelati | 3650 Concord Road | 503-382-9450 | 03/10 |
| Jamba Juice - Milwaukie | 10814 SE Oak St | 503-513-6385 | 01/10 |
| Joes Place Saloon | 4400 SE International Way | 503-653-6798 | 01/24 |
| Kellog Bowl Inc | 10306 Main St | 503-659-1757 | 02/21 |
| K-mart Deli #4406 | 13750 SE Johnson Rd | 503-659-6773 | 04/22 |
| Lew's Drive Inn | 14911 SE Mcloughlin Bl | 503-654-6648 | 03/17 |
| Lighthouse | 18010 SE Mcloughlin Blvd | 503-312-1404 | 01/08 |
| McQueen's Bar & Grill | 14680 SE River Rd | 503-736-3308 | 04/24 |
| Milwaukie Bowl | 3056 SE Harrison St | 503-654-7719 | 02/21 |
| Milwaukie Center | 5440 SE Kellogg Creek Dr | 503-653-8100 | 03/05 |
| Milwaukie Christian Church | 5197 SE King Rd | 503-654-6597 | 02/20 |
| Milwaukie Elks #2032 | 13121 Mcloughlin Blvd | 503-654-9588 | 12/28 |
| NCPRD Concession Stand | 5440 SE Kellogg Creek | 503-654-3030 | 03/05 |
| Oxford Suites | 75 SE 82nd Dr | 503-650-0562 | 03/04 |
| Round Table Pizza | 16550 SE Mcloughlin Blvd | 503-653-6444 | 05/01 |
| Spring Creek Coffee House | 10600 SE Mcloughlin Bl #105 | 503-496-5555 | 02/25 |
| Sully's Cafe | 2035 SE Jefferson St | 503-786-0285 | 01/24 |
| Tsunami Cafe | 7300 SE Harmony Road | 503-659-1756 | 12/26 |
| Westwood Tan & Beauty | 6960 SE Theissen | 503-654-8171 | 03/05 |
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Safety deposit boxes not safe from the state
Which is a safer place for your valuables: Under the mattress, or in a California safety deposit box?
Be surprised. Very surprised.
http://abcnews.go.com/print?id=4832471 or http://silverbearcafe.com/private/5.08/ripoff.html
Note that Oregon's safeguards in this area are also weak... and you can check to see if they have taken something of yours at http://www.oregon.gov/DSL/UP/yourmoney.shtml
Be surprised. Very surprised.
http://abcnews.go.com/print?id=4832471 or http://silverbearcafe.com/private/5.08/ripoff.html
Note that Oregon's safeguards in this area are also weak... and you can check to see if they have taken something of yours at http://www.oregon.gov/DSL/UP/yourmoney.shtml
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
We are top officials of the United States Senate Government who are interested in importation of oil into our country with funds that are presently...
CONFIDENTIAL/URGENT POLITICAL PROPOSAL
Dear Sir
First we must solicit your confidence in this issue. This is by virtue as being utterly confidential and "top secret".
We are SENATOR HILLARY CLINTON, the wife of the former United States head of state, PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON, and also SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN, friend and associate of current head of state PRESIDENT GEORGE W BUSH. We got your contact through business inquiries as we were searching for contacts of a citizen who can help save our and our family's political careers since our country has been frustrating us.
We are top officials of the United States Senate Government who are interested in importation of oil into our country with funds that are presently trapped in the FEDERAL TRANSPORTATION TRUST FUND dedicated to improving transportation. We wish to send this money to overseas accounts in the MIDDLE EAST but cannot due to restrictions in Congress Transportation Equity Act requiring that this money must be spent to build roads, bridges and high speed trains.
If you accept we will deliver to your a sum of 30 DOLLARS in the summer 2008 in form of a "GAS TAX HOLIDAY". You will then deliver this money to accounts of our friends in Middle East by taking it to your nearby gasoline station where they have information to forward the money. Please supply your bank account, social security number, address and your vote in DEMOCRATIC PRIMARIES AND NOVEMBER GENERAL ELECTION.
But bear in mind that this transaction requires absolute confidentiality. Do not visit WWW.GASTAXSCAM.COM where there is information about dangers of our proposal and a petition to stop us from this diversion of funds.
PLEASE NOTIFY US URGENTLY OF YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THIS PROPOSAL
Awaiting your rapid response
Yours truly
SENATORS HILLARY CLINTON AND JOHN MCCAIN
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Target matches Wal-Mart $4 prescription plan
Target stores just expanded, again, the list of generic drugs it sells for $4/30 day supply, to match the expanded Wal-Mart $4 prescription list. Excellent.
Monday, April 28, 2008
What will $10 / gal gas do to you?
http://www2.nysun.com/article/75363
Start thinking, for the cost of fuel is no longer the least expensive item in the cost of your ride.
The cost of fuel will no longer be the cheapest component in the cost of food.
How dependent is your job on cheap transport?
Go do your budget before you vote... and maybe ask your national candidates what they will do to encourage restoration of production in Mexico, Nigeria, and (oh, dare I say it) Iraq?
You'd think oil execs-turned-politicians would make darned sure Iraqi oil production was restored ASAP, if they had our best interests in mind... but, instead, ask your Democratic and Republican federal candidates, Jeff Merkeley, Steve Novick, Earl Blumenauer, Gordon Smith, et al. Ask early, ask often, and send me their responses.
Start thinking, for the cost of fuel is no longer the least expensive item in the cost of your ride.
The cost of fuel will no longer be the cheapest component in the cost of food.
How dependent is your job on cheap transport?
Go do your budget before you vote... and maybe ask your national candidates what they will do to encourage restoration of production in Mexico, Nigeria, and (oh, dare I say it) Iraq?
You'd think oil execs-turned-politicians would make darned sure Iraqi oil production was restored ASAP, if they had our best interests in mind... but, instead, ask your Democratic and Republican federal candidates, Jeff Merkeley, Steve Novick, Earl Blumenauer, Gordon Smith, et al. Ask early, ask often, and send me their responses.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Scientific expedition to Oregon quake swarm launches Friday
Oregon State University's Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC) will launch an expedition to the area of hundreds of recent quakes offshore on Friday. Quakes hundreds of miles offshore, if small, pose no tsunami risk, but when the quakes start exceeding five?
Here's another map link, auto club tips on what to do if you're behind the wheel and a quake hits, and guidance on preparing your disater plan.
Plus, here's a link to multiple stories on the Oregon off-shore quake swarm:
http://news.google.com/?ncl=1151691996&hl=en&topic=t
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Is Portland's gift to OHSU upside-down?
Here, Sam Adams admits Portland can't afford to pay its obligations to development plans in South Waterfront: http://bojack.org/2008/04/its_official_sowhat_is_broke.html
Saturday, April 12, 2008
The Cos' and his campaign
http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200805/cosby
There's a lot for us to listen to, regardless of our race.
There's a lot for us to listen to, regardless of our race.
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Aghast at the Bush Administration
The Bush Administration may have a concealed internal legal opinion which, at their whim, makes any action of the National Security Agency, by fiat, legal, overruling the Fourth Amendment.
http://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2008/04/administration-asserts-no-fourth-amendment-domestic-military-operations
... our Office recently concluded that the Fourth Amendment had no application to domestic military operations. See Memorandum for Alberto R. Gonzales, Counsel to the President, and William J. Haynes, II, General Counsel, Department of Defense, from John C. Yoo, Deputy Assistant Attorney General and Robert J. Delahunty, Special Counsel, Re: Authority for Use of Military Force to Combat Terrorist Activities Within the United States at 25 (Oct 23, 2001). (emphasis added)
http://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2008/04/administration-asserts-no-fourth-amendment-domestic-military-operations
Friday, March 07, 2008
Enhanced Law Enforcement Service District Citizens' Advisory Committee of the Clackamas Co. Sheriff (Part One of ...)
2008-03-06 Enhanced Law Enforcement Service District Citizens' Advisory Committee of the Clackamas Co. Sheriff (Part One of Two)
Opened 18:40 on 3/06 at the Public Safety Training Center by John E. Bartley, Vice-Chair, a tech writer @ Intel who lives on Oatfield Hill above Oak Grove. Absent: Chair Ralph Radmer
1. Introductions
Bill Andrews, lives by Rex Putnam HS
Kristen Buren, Customer Service Rep for Laminations in Wilsonville
Paul Ellison, Bank of the West, Webster & Clackamas
Ron Hinson, Customer Service Mgr for the Estacada branch of BOTW, lives by Clackamas HS
Trish Jorgenson, retired nurse, Maple Lane
Charlie Paul, USAF (Ret.), Miramonte Point
Shelly Radmer, Investigator, lives near 152nd/Sunnyside
Nancy Whitley, retired teacher from Oak Grove
Ex-officio members
Kathleen Stewart, CCSO Administration for 6 yrs & Main staff to committee
Patrol Captain Dave O'Shaugnessey
Brief discussion of roles of chair & vice chair by Kathleen. Chair sets tone of meeting, plans agenda, can assemble letters & speak for the committee. Vice-chair fills in for chair when chair absent.
2. Discussion of 2008 Sheriff's goals
2.1 (Captain Dave O'Shaugnessey) Interviewed for all 14 unfilled patrol officer positions; six or seven are in background checks (six weeks to several months), rest awaiting other requirements or have start dates. 171.5 FTEs allocated including ELED and levy positions. No college requirement for an officer; last week eight interviews were conducted; four had degrees, and three about to graduate from college. Nancy asked about diversity of applicants; Capt. O'S. replied they have; Spanish speakers, Asian, other diverse members.
2.2 Increasing training opportunities for all staff.
Certification agency requires only 84 hrs every 3 years; the CCSO dept std is 40 hrs/yr. All supervisors are trained in crisis intervention including dealing with the mentally ill, and 40 of the deputies also trained. Also sharing training w/ other agencies to share costs.
2.3 Five-year strategic plan; collecting all-employee input before new plan written.
2.4 Work hard to consolidate all staff into one building, very cramped and spread across multiple sites. Want to consolidate all in soon-to-vacate Sunnybrook building (ETA EOY) but civil (required to be in the courthouse), property and special investigations not be consolidated. Will keep the dollar-a-year Shaver building below the County Public Services Complex which was donated by the Feds. County administration not yet approved. Old co. fin plan counted on selling Sunnybrook Building for 5M$ to pay for new Development Services Building, and the county is working on alternatives.
2.5 Open remaining closed jail beds ASAP; 44 remaining just opened. 500 early releases/mo now, this will reduce. New jail needed to eliminate it. Bill commented on War On Drugs as a bad joke.
2.6 Implement inmate work crews as per levy, but will limit to low risk criminals.
2.7 Beginning new design jail construction at current site of Dog Control, ASAP. New podular design will have 880 beds and will staff w/ current jail employees (which only serves less than 500.) Still planning, project management assigned to Capt. Howard.
2.8 Expand CCITF interagency task force, does ton of work on middle- and upper- level criminals, but expect increase in crime in September 2009 when Tri-Met opens Green Line at Town Center. (Ed. note: Tri-Met is unhelpful in addressing concerns.)
2.9 How to use better new staffing from levy; Patrol? Detectives? A full-time crime analyst position was created to watch for crime changes. The department is interviewing the top six candidates within two weeks, with a hire following soon thereafter.
2.10 Relationship between Community Corrections (Parole & Probation, Work Release) now supervised by Co. Administrator) & the CCSO. Decisions of Community Corrections affect what can be done w/ jail resources. Consultant studying now.
2.11 Identify & plan for long term funding; several other counties went to dedicated funding assessment. The CCSO budget was $62M last year, $40M from county general revenue funds, but timber monies are shrinking, which makes more counties shift to general fund sources and consider a dedicated tax assessment just for law enforcement.
Capt. O'Shaugnessy was in a work session w/ Commission last week on creating a county Justice Court (not Community Court, which is similar to a diversion program). Nineteen Oregon counties have 32 Justice Courts for traffic violations, evictions and other landlord-tenant matters, and perhaps code violations. It would increase the county's share of revenue from fines levied, an important financial improvement.
Justice Courts were consolidated into District Courts in the 50s, and in the 90s, District Courts were absorbed into Circuit Courts. Commissioners have authority to establish it, but presiding judge expressed unidentified concerns and then cd not attend the workshop, but judge in Lane Co. (which has a Justice Court) had excellent info. Next step is a month out. Last time it went to commission, one commissioner wanted public input, so all the county's Community Planning Organizations were consulted and all like it.
Now, Commissioner Peterson is new to the commission and needs to be brought up to speed.
Each motor officer writes about 2,000 citations/yr, resulting in 5,000 court appearances with at least 2 hrs off patrol per hearing. A Justice Court would reduce the time motor officers are off patrol and increase service to the public, another of the many advantages of a Justice Court.
3. Surveys: A packet to provide info to the public within the ELED only as well as ask the public their concerns. Dick Jones of the Oak Grove CC did pick some up & had at their 2/20 meeting. Many returns have come back & are ready to compile. (Chair Ralph Radmer arrived). Trish volunteered to compile them and John volunteered to help her with preparing a form to automate the compilation.
4. Patrol: Oregon City plans to annex 166 acres which would remove it from the ELED and Lake Oswego has several single lots to annex as well. Both would remove those properties from the tax base of the ELED. The Commission will consider these annexations at their April 16 public hearing.
A list of categorized calls for service and reported crimes from 1/1/2008 to 10AM today (3/06/200) was distributed. In that period, there were over 9,000 calls for service, resulting in 1,095 reports written.
(Ed. Note: Those reports will be scanned and posted on Clackablog later.)
The new Green Line MAX is due to open in the fall of 2009. The CCSO is concerned more crime at end of the line and the stop preceding is likely, and the department prepares an aggressive plan to discourage crime from the beginning. TriMet says TriMet crime happens on TriMet property, but that excludes crime which led from their property. Gresham, Portland and Hillsboro track crime near TriMet stops, and several years of statistics will help the CCSO understand any changes caused by TriMet-delivered criminals.
(Ed. Note: Sadly, TriMet is not directly responsible to the people, insulated as it is from the electorate by its appointed board.)
Annual incident reports were also provided. Kristin asked for definitions of categories; Capt. O'Shaugnessy noted ORS chapter 160 explains the crime categories. The demarcation between the 99E and 82nd areas is Webster Rd, and 205/Schumacher is the boundary for the Clackamas area.
(Ed. Note: Those reports will also be scanned and posted on Clackablog later.)
5. A revenue forecast was not yet ready for the ELED CAC to consider. Nancy asked what the tax rate is; John noted the original tax rate is reduced by millage caps, a percentage reduction which changes with every change in all assessments as per caps imposted by ballot measures.
6. Election of Chair & Vice Chair for CY2008.
Ralph and John were elected unanimously to serve another term, with no competition or dissent.
7. A free-ranging discussion of possible priorities for the ELED followed, and the perceptions, and misperceptions, of the public. The recurring myth that the ELED does not get what they paid for was dissected, and John explained the cause.
When the ELED was created, a specific goal of (35?) more road deputies was prominent in the original campaign. However, since then, the tax rate caps mandated by statewide ballot measures reduce every tax assessment to fit under the cap, including the ELED tax rate. The people of the ELED are not allowed to pay as much as we need to collect enough to reach that original goal, but the ELED does get what we pay for.
The committee adjourned at 20:10, with the next mtng planned for 18:30 on Thursday 1 May, also in the PTSC unless announced otherwise.
Opened 18:40 on 3/06 at the Public Safety Training Center by John E. Bartley, Vice-Chair, a tech writer @ Intel who lives on Oatfield Hill above Oak Grove. Absent: Chair Ralph Radmer
1. Introductions
Bill Andrews, lives by Rex Putnam HS
Kristen Buren, Customer Service Rep for Laminations in Wilsonville
Paul Ellison, Bank of the West, Webster & Clackamas
Ron Hinson, Customer Service Mgr for the Estacada branch of BOTW, lives by Clackamas HS
Trish Jorgenson, retired nurse, Maple Lane
Charlie Paul, USAF (Ret.), Miramonte Point
Shelly Radmer, Investigator, lives near 152nd/Sunnyside
Nancy Whitley, retired teacher from Oak Grove
Ex-officio members
Kathleen Stewart, CCSO Administration for 6 yrs & Main staff to committee
Patrol Captain Dave O'Shaugnessey
Brief discussion of roles of chair & vice chair by Kathleen. Chair sets tone of meeting, plans agenda, can assemble letters & speak for the committee. Vice-chair fills in for chair when chair absent.
2. Discussion of 2008 Sheriff's goals
2.1 (Captain Dave O'Shaugnessey) Interviewed for all 14 unfilled patrol officer positions; six or seven are in background checks (six weeks to several months), rest awaiting other requirements or have start dates. 171.5 FTEs allocated including ELED and levy positions. No college requirement for an officer; last week eight interviews were conducted; four had degrees, and three about to graduate from college. Nancy asked about diversity of applicants; Capt. O'S. replied they have; Spanish speakers, Asian, other diverse members.
2.2 Increasing training opportunities for all staff.
Certification agency requires only 84 hrs every 3 years; the CCSO dept std is 40 hrs/yr. All supervisors are trained in crisis intervention including dealing with the mentally ill, and 40 of the deputies also trained. Also sharing training w/ other agencies to share costs.
2.3 Five-year strategic plan; collecting all-employee input before new plan written.
2.4 Work hard to consolidate all staff into one building, very cramped and spread across multiple sites. Want to consolidate all in soon-to-vacate Sunnybrook building (ETA EOY) but civil (required to be in the courthouse), property and special investigations not be consolidated. Will keep the dollar-a-year Shaver building below the County Public Services Complex which was donated by the Feds. County administration not yet approved. Old co. fin plan counted on selling Sunnybrook Building for 5M$ to pay for new Development Services Building, and the county is working on alternatives.
2.5 Open remaining closed jail beds ASAP; 44 remaining just opened. 500 early releases/mo now, this will reduce. New jail needed to eliminate it. Bill commented on War On Drugs as a bad joke.
2.6 Implement inmate work crews as per levy, but will limit to low risk criminals.
2.7 Beginning new design jail construction at current site of Dog Control, ASAP. New podular design will have 880 beds and will staff w/ current jail employees (which only serves less than 500.) Still planning, project management assigned to Capt. Howard.
2.8 Expand CCITF interagency task force, does ton of work on middle- and upper- level criminals, but expect increase in crime in September 2009 when Tri-Met opens Green Line at Town Center. (Ed. note: Tri-Met is unhelpful in addressing concerns.)
2.9 How to use better new staffing from levy; Patrol? Detectives? A full-time crime analyst position was created to watch for crime changes. The department is interviewing the top six candidates within two weeks, with a hire following soon thereafter.
2.10 Relationship between Community Corrections (Parole & Probation, Work Release) now supervised by Co. Administrator) & the CCSO. Decisions of Community Corrections affect what can be done w/ jail resources. Consultant studying now.
2.11 Identify & plan for long term funding; several other counties went to dedicated funding assessment. The CCSO budget was $62M last year, $40M from county general revenue funds, but timber monies are shrinking, which makes more counties shift to general fund sources and consider a dedicated tax assessment just for law enforcement.
Capt. O'Shaugnessy was in a work session w/ Commission last week on creating a county Justice Court (not Community Court, which is similar to a diversion program). Nineteen Oregon counties have 32 Justice Courts for traffic violations, evictions and other landlord-tenant matters, and perhaps code violations. It would increase the county's share of revenue from fines levied, an important financial improvement.
Justice Courts were consolidated into District Courts in the 50s, and in the 90s, District Courts were absorbed into Circuit Courts. Commissioners have authority to establish it, but presiding judge expressed unidentified concerns and then cd not attend the workshop, but judge in Lane Co. (which has a Justice Court) had excellent info. Next step is a month out. Last time it went to commission, one commissioner wanted public input, so all the county's Community Planning Organizations were consulted and all like it.
Now, Commissioner Peterson is new to the commission and needs to be brought up to speed.
Each motor officer writes about 2,000 citations/yr, resulting in 5,000 court appearances with at least 2 hrs off patrol per hearing. A Justice Court would reduce the time motor officers are off patrol and increase service to the public, another of the many advantages of a Justice Court.
3. Surveys: A packet to provide info to the public within the ELED only as well as ask the public their concerns. Dick Jones of the Oak Grove CC did pick some up & had at their 2/20 meeting. Many returns have come back & are ready to compile. (Chair Ralph Radmer arrived). Trish volunteered to compile them and John volunteered to help her with preparing a form to automate the compilation.
4. Patrol: Oregon City plans to annex 166 acres which would remove it from the ELED and Lake Oswego has several single lots to annex as well. Both would remove those properties from the tax base of the ELED. The Commission will consider these annexations at their April 16 public hearing.
A list of categorized calls for service and reported crimes from 1/1/2008 to 10AM today (3/06/200) was distributed. In that period, there were over 9,000 calls for service, resulting in 1,095 reports written.
(Ed. Note: Those reports will be scanned and posted on Clackablog later.)
The new Green Line MAX is due to open in the fall of 2009. The CCSO is concerned more crime at end of the line and the stop preceding is likely, and the department prepares an aggressive plan to discourage crime from the beginning. TriMet says TriMet crime happens on TriMet property, but that excludes crime which led from their property. Gresham, Portland and Hillsboro track crime near TriMet stops, and several years of statistics will help the CCSO understand any changes caused by TriMet-delivered criminals.
(Ed. Note: Sadly, TriMet is not directly responsible to the people, insulated as it is from the electorate by its appointed board.)
Annual incident reports were also provided. Kristin asked for definitions of categories; Capt. O'Shaugnessy noted ORS chapter 160 explains the crime categories. The demarcation between the 99E and 82nd areas is Webster Rd, and 205/Schumacher is the boundary for the Clackamas area.
(Ed. Note: Those reports will also be scanned and posted on Clackablog later.)
5. A revenue forecast was not yet ready for the ELED CAC to consider. Nancy asked what the tax rate is; John noted the original tax rate is reduced by millage caps, a percentage reduction which changes with every change in all assessments as per caps imposted by ballot measures.
6. Election of Chair & Vice Chair for CY2008.
Ralph and John were elected unanimously to serve another term, with no competition or dissent.
7. A free-ranging discussion of possible priorities for the ELED followed, and the perceptions, and misperceptions, of the public. The recurring myth that the ELED does not get what they paid for was dissected, and John explained the cause.
When the ELED was created, a specific goal of (35?) more road deputies was prominent in the original campaign. However, since then, the tax rate caps mandated by statewide ballot measures reduce every tax assessment to fit under the cap, including the ELED tax rate. The people of the ELED are not allowed to pay as much as we need to collect enough to reach that original goal, but the ELED does get what we pay for.
The committee adjourned at 20:10, with the next mtng planned for 18:30 on Thursday 1 May, also in the PTSC unless announced otherwise.
ELED History + Sheriff's Services to cities
Here's a map of the District (requires Adobe Reader; it's 2MB, a long download on dial-up).
Scroll down to Other Counties in Oregon in this report from Multnomah County for an auditor's perspective on the ELED.
Also of interest:
The District was approved by voters in the November 1994 general election and became effective July 1, 1995. Its purpose is to increase the level of sheriff's patrols to meet the increased demand of urban Clackamas County. It serves approximately 85,000 residents in the unincorporated areas of Clackamas County within the Urban Growth Boundary, and the city of Johnson City. - From a county press release.
Scroll down to Other Counties in Oregon in this report from Multnomah County for an auditor's perspective on the ELED.
In Clackamas County, cities were invited to join unincorporated areas within the urban growth boundary in the establishment of an Enhanced Law Enforcement District (ELED) with a tax base which supports an additional .5 officers per thousand in addition to the rural level of .5 per thousand. Johnson City and Happy Valley joined the ELED, but Wilsonville chose to continue its contract with the Sheriff.
Also of interest:
The Clackamas County Sheriff has contracts with Estacada and Wilsonville to provide patrol services. The Sheriff's Office reports that no patrol services are provided to these cities free of charge. The cities pay an hourly rate for patrol services which the Sheriff's Office claims is fully costed, including both departmental and County overhead. The current hourly rate for a deputy is $51.84, and for a lieutenant $60.50.
Writing to the County Commissioners
This link, bcc@co.clackamas.or.us sends an e-mail to all three, using the default e-mail client of your computer. The Commissioner's office may also be reached at phone: 503-655-8581 or by fax at 503-742-5919.
To send a message to only Commissioner Martha Schrader or Commission Vice-Chair Bill Kennemer, put 'Dear Commissioner Schrader' or 'Dear Commission Vice-Chair Kennemer' in the subject line, as per the Commissioner's office with whom I just spoke.
Chair Lynn Peterson has her own posted e-mail address lynnpet@co.clackamas.or.us, but uses the same phone and fax numbers.
To send a message to only Commissioner Martha Schrader or Commission Vice-Chair Bill Kennemer, put 'Dear Commissioner Schrader' or 'Dear Commission Vice-Chair Kennemer' in the subject line, as per the Commissioner's office with whom I just spoke.
Chair Lynn Peterson has her own posted e-mail address lynnpet@co.clackamas.or.us, but uses the same phone and fax numbers.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Casa de Tamales
The current lunch/dinner menu for Casa de Tamales may be found at tinyurl.com/yub5au. Dinner there last week found their asparagas tamales, the same as these folks have served at the Farmer's Market for years, to still be very fine.
Monday, July 09, 2007
HELP: How do you pick a feline cardiologist?
3 y.o. DSH/Scottish Fold ('straight fold'), 5.5 kilos, energetic and outgoing.
Fast Eddie was taken to vet for bolting his kibble (behavioural issue; why, well, you'd have to ask him, as he is Top Cat in the household, dominant over a 10 y.o. Scottish Fold and a 3 y.o. Flame Point Siamese longhaired tub-o'-lard).
Vet observed a heart murmor, rated slighly over 3 on a scale of 1 to 6. Radiographs and bloodwork due back tomorrow, cardiomyopathy or hyperthyroid likely causes.
So, how do you pick a feline cardiologist? The closest vet schools are OSU in Corvallis, WSU in Pullman and UC Davis, but Portland Magazine does not profile vets like they do MDs.
Open for comments, via K7AAY ayt ARRL daht NET
Fast Eddie was taken to vet for bolting his kibble (behavioural issue; why, well, you'd have to ask him, as he is Top Cat in the household, dominant over a 10 y.o. Scottish Fold and a 3 y.o. Flame Point Siamese longhaired tub-o'-lard).
Vet observed a heart murmor, rated slighly over 3 on a scale of 1 to 6. Radiographs and bloodwork due back tomorrow, cardiomyopathy or hyperthyroid likely causes.
So, how do you pick a feline cardiologist? The closest vet schools are OSU in Corvallis, WSU in Pullman and UC Davis, but Portland Magazine does not profile vets like they do MDs.
Open for comments, via K7AAY ayt ARRL daht NET
Friday, July 06, 2007
Biodiesel B99 and E85 Ethanol get state tax credits
Beginning 1 Oct 2007, Oregonians get a 24 cents per gallon income tax credit for B99 biodiesel, which we use in the Jeep, as per Oregon House Bill 2210.
If we had an E85-capable car, that same income tax credit would apply to it, and there's also a five cents per gallon credit for biodiesel used in home heating systems. (Biodiesel can be used in just about any home oil furnace, although it's a good solvent and will knock loose a lot of crud which may cause problems... and it doesn't smell like dead dinosaurs when you heat your house. Kewl.)
There's a cap of $200 per taxpayer for the credit, which I will surely reach in a full year's time. Figure 20 gallons a week, 52 weeks in a year and $3.37/gallon right now for B99 at Jay's Garage or Bluesky Fuel vs an effective $3.13/gallon after the rebate, and I'd see a $250 rebate if not capped.
20 GAL/WK * 52 WK/YR * $0.24/GAL = $249.60
Hmm. Better buy a logging program for the smartphone, and a backup paper logbook.
If we had an E85-capable car, that same income tax credit would apply to it, and there's also a five cents per gallon credit for biodiesel used in home heating systems. (Biodiesel can be used in just about any home oil furnace, although it's a good solvent and will knock loose a lot of crud which may cause problems... and it doesn't smell like dead dinosaurs when you heat your house. Kewl.)
There's a cap of $200 per taxpayer for the credit, which I will surely reach in a full year's time. Figure 20 gallons a week, 52 weeks in a year and $3.37/gallon right now for B99 at Jay's Garage or Bluesky Fuel vs an effective $3.13/gallon after the rebate, and I'd see a $250 rebate if not capped.
20 GAL/WK * 52 WK/YR * $0.24/GAL = $249.60
Hmm. Better buy a logging program for the smartphone, and a backup paper logbook.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Calendar of Public Meetings, July 2007
Calendar of Public Meetings
July 2007
(Meeting times and places may change so data should be confirmed in advance.)
Every Sunday
9:30 AM - 2:30 PM Milwaukie Sunday Farmers’ Market in downtown Milwaukie.
Tuesday the 3rd
11:15 AM I-205 Light Rail Ground Breaking at Clackamas Town Center.
Wednesday the 4th
Happy 4th of July. Go read the Bill of Rights!
Thursday the 5th
9:00 AM Land Use Hearing @ SSC/Sunnybrook Service Center, 9101 SE Sunnybrook Blvd.
No Board of Commissioner Hearing.
3:00 PM Code Compliance Hearing at SSC.
Monday the 9th
6:30 PM Planning Commission meeting at SSC (possible).
Tuesday the 10th
8:30 AM Board of Commissioners Study session at Board offices.
6:30 PM Oak Lodge Sanitary monthly Board meeting at Board offices.
Wednesday the 11th
7:00 PM CIA meeting at Rose Villa 13505 SE River Rd.
Discussion of Transit and Transportation as a Community Value.
Thursday the 12th
10:00 AM Board of Commissioner Hearing at Public Service Building, Kaen Road, Oregon City.
7:00 PM North Clackamas School Board meets in Board offices.
7:00 PM Historic Review Board meets at SSC.
Tuesday the 17th
8:30 AM Board of Commissioners Study session at Board offices.
7:00 PM Oak Lodge Water District Board meeting at District offices on River Road.
7:00 PM County Committee for Citizen Involvement meets at PSB.
Wednesday the 18th
6:30 PM CCSD#1 Wastewater study committee meets at SSC.
Thursday the 19th
9:00 AM Land Use Hearing at Sunnybrook Service Center (SSC).
No Board of Commissioner Hearing at PSB.
Monday the 23rd
6:30 PM Planning Commission meeting at SSC.
7:00 PM Fire District No. 1 Board meets at Mt. Scott Fire Station.
Tuesday the 24th
8:00 AM Board of Commissioners Study session at Board offices.
5:30 PM NCCWC meets at plant on Clackamas River Dr.
6:00 PM North Clackamas Parks and Rec District Advisory Board meets with the BCC in a joint meeting at Happy Valley Park.
7:00 PM Jennings Lodge CPO meets at Homewoods Heights.
Wednesday the 25th
4:00 PM North Clackamas Park Stewardship Committee meets at the Milwaukie Center.
7:00 PM Oak Lodge Community Council meets at OLSD offices.
Thursday the 26th
10:00 AM Board of Commissioner Hearing at PSB.
Monday the 30th
2:00 PM BCC Planning meeting on Historic Preservation PSB Room 255.
Tuesday the 31st
8:30 AM Board of Commissioners Study session at Board offices.
July 2007
(Meeting times and places may change so data should be confirmed in advance.)
Every Sunday
9:30 AM - 2:30 PM Milwaukie Sunday Farmers’ Market in downtown Milwaukie.
Tuesday the 3rd
11:15 AM I-205 Light Rail Ground Breaking at Clackamas Town Center.
Wednesday the 4th
Happy 4th of July. Go read the Bill of Rights!
Thursday the 5th
9:00 AM Land Use Hearing @ SSC/Sunnybrook Service Center, 9101 SE Sunnybrook Blvd.
No Board of Commissioner Hearing.
3:00 PM Code Compliance Hearing at SSC.
Monday the 9th
6:30 PM Planning Commission meeting at SSC (possible).
Tuesday the 10th
8:30 AM Board of Commissioners Study session at Board offices.
6:30 PM Oak Lodge Sanitary monthly Board meeting at Board offices.
Wednesday the 11th
7:00 PM CIA meeting at Rose Villa 13505 SE River Rd.
Discussion of Transit and Transportation as a Community Value.
Thursday the 12th
10:00 AM Board of Commissioner Hearing at Public Service Building, Kaen Road, Oregon City.
7:00 PM North Clackamas School Board meets in Board offices.
7:00 PM Historic Review Board meets at SSC.
Tuesday the 17th
8:30 AM Board of Commissioners Study session at Board offices.
7:00 PM Oak Lodge Water District Board meeting at District offices on River Road.
7:00 PM County Committee for Citizen Involvement meets at PSB.
Wednesday the 18th
6:30 PM CCSD#1 Wastewater study committee meets at SSC.
Thursday the 19th
9:00 AM Land Use Hearing at Sunnybrook Service Center (SSC).
No Board of Commissioner Hearing at PSB.
Monday the 23rd
6:30 PM Planning Commission meeting at SSC.
7:00 PM Fire District No. 1 Board meets at Mt. Scott Fire Station.
Tuesday the 24th
8:00 AM Board of Commissioners Study session at Board offices.
5:30 PM NCCWC meets at plant on Clackamas River Dr.
6:00 PM North Clackamas Parks and Rec District Advisory Board meets with the BCC in a joint meeting at Happy Valley Park.
7:00 PM Jennings Lodge CPO meets at Homewoods Heights.
Wednesday the 25th
4:00 PM North Clackamas Park Stewardship Committee meets at the Milwaukie Center.
7:00 PM Oak Lodge Community Council meets at OLSD offices.
Thursday the 26th
10:00 AM Board of Commissioner Hearing at PSB.
Monday the 30th
2:00 PM BCC Planning meeting on Historic Preservation PSB Room 255.
Tuesday the 31st
8:30 AM Board of Commissioners Study session at Board offices.
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