Can't afford law enforcement, so we will add more revenue generating cameras

the Oregonian --


About this time every year, there are new traffic laws that go into effect, and this year 2008 claims to be a little bit tougher on drivers.

Some of the new laws on the books will allow Oregon to add more red light cameras (HB 2508) and photo radar units (HB 2466).

Red light cameras which are typically fixed units mounted at or near the intersection are designed to take a picture of the driver and the license plate of vehicles that proceed through the intersection after the light has turned red. The photos are then used to send tickets to the offending driver.

Milwaukie Police Chief Larry Kanzler sees the cameras as a way to protect officers and patrol cars. Drivers struck -- and totaled -- three patrol cars in the past year while officers were doing traffic stops along Southeast McLoughlin Boulevard. So Kanzler took photos of the crumpled cars to show to legislators this year.

"I said, 'This is why it's not safe for my officers to do red-light enforcement along McLoughlin,' " Kanzler said.

Kanzler added that unlike officers, the cameras can patrol 24-7.

Photo radar is an automated and mobile radar system typically mounted within a marked patrol vehicle to catch speeders, and as with red light cameras, the offending driver will be mailed a ticket.


having friends and family in law enforcement, they have their own opinions about the "automated" system and its effectiveness in regarding "law enforcement" versus "revenue enhancement".

For example, photo radar versus a traffic stop will not capture felons. Every law enforcement personnel that I have personally spoken to about this subject, told me that they capture more wanted people for minor traffic offenses than any other method.

Secondly, regarding Kanzler's point on his officers getting into accidents at traffic stops... without knowing all the details... yes traffic stops are dangerous, however, it is also up to the officer's best judgment of where and when to safely stop the vehicle.

Third, red light cameras and photo radar should not be used replace or reduce the uniformed officer.

I highly recommend doing research on photo radar systems and the companies that provide them to the cities and how the companies profit off the systems.

Merry Christmas and happy birthday Jesus

EPA denies California's request for tighter auto emissions to reduce greenhouse gases also upsets Kulongoski's plan and threatens lawsuit

Ashland daily tidings --

Governor Ted "tax-and-gouge-me" Kulongoski is threatening lawsuits after the US Environmental Protection Agency's decision to reject California tailpipe restrictions that Oregon has adopted.

"Today's decision by the EPA is very disappointing for Oregon and our efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that lead to global warming," Kulongoski said.

Kulongoski continued by saying "does not diminish my commitment to combat climate change and I will move forward with any legal or administrative means necessary to make sure Oregon can set its own tailpipe emission standards."

10 other states have adopted California standards to reduce emissions.

have you noticed that more and more issues that Oregon is involved with has been part of the "tri-state" conglomeration of Oregon, Washington and California?

Additionally, as Lars Larson has pointed out with several interviews with representatives of the EPA that the figures do not back up Kulongoski's claim that Oregon needs special regulations for tailpipe emissions.

The article claims that the emissions standards can be met with "off-the-shelf" parts added to the vehicles.

Imagine if the EPA had approved the special California emission standards, where would it stop? Would Oregon have its own standards that differ from California's, which differ from Washington state, which differs from Nevada, which differs from...

It would bankrupt the automotive manufacturers just trying to keep up with all the "special" standards.

So, how much blood can you get out of a turnip?

Portland -- the city gas tax died, so city Commissioner Sam Adams would like to replace it with a "street maintenance and safety fee" instead.
the Oregonian


City Commissioner Sam Adams has dropped his idea for a three cent city gas tax, instead he will ask the city Council to add a "street maintenance and safety fee" onto the water bills to a total of $4.54 a month for homeowners. (businesses will pay a different amount based on their size and traffic)

Of course for Portland, that would bring in an estimated $464 million over the next 15 years which would be used to re-pave old roads, add crosswalks [add bike paths?] fund other maintenance and safety.

State leaders have urged Adams to drop the tax proposal because they are hoping to raise transportation funds statewide in the 2009 legislative session with a significant gas tax increase (four cents) and other user fees, license and title fees.

Adams would like to see a $.12 a gallon increase, phased in in four cents increments in 2010, 2012, and 2014.


of course, little Portland, er... I mean Eugene, is still looking for ways to gouge us for street repairs in a 6-2 vote of sending a bond measure to the voters in May 2008.
The Register Guard

The bond measure would cost a medium value home about $109 a year for 10 years for an estimated $170 million.

Counselors George Poling and Mike Clark wanted to wait until November.

"The extra time would give us more time to increase the confidence level with the public." said Poling.
Clark said the city needs to show residents that it can spend money wisely before asking them for new taxes. “I believe we have some trust to earn back,"

Now that's an understatement

A carbon tax on babies?!? Now I've heard everything

Australian Broadcasting Corporation

A radical proposal to reduce the population has been published by Barry Walters, an associate professor of obstetrics medicine in the Medical Journal of Australia.

Dr. Walters argues that families who have chosen to have more than a defined number of children (2) should be charged a carbon tax, conversely, he feels that those who purchase condoms or undergo sterilization procedures should be awarded a carbon credit.

"population control seems to have gone off the rails in the last 30 years," says Dr. Egger, an adjunct professor of health sciences at Southern Cross University in New South Wales, "it's almost forbidden to talk about it these days. It's almost like smoking-you have to go out in the alleys to talk about it."

we have always speculated that some day they will tax us for the air that we breathe... it looks like they're trying to make that a reality.

"... EPD doesn't immediately dispatch officers to non- injury traffic accident, some burglaries, car break-ins, theft..."

Register Guard


Eugene Police Department (EPD) officers work hard to keep up with demand, however, with fewer officers than other cities, EPD is unable to immediately dispatch officers in some circumstances.

"I don’t think it’s very good service to the public, and I don’t think (residents) think so either, judging from the letters I get,” Eugene police chief Robert Lehner said."

the police officers union and the city hired consultants are demanding that the city Council hire more police officers.

“Without adequate staffing, these objectives are nothing more than lip service to our community,” Willy Edewaard, president of the Eugene Police Employees’ Association, wrote to Mayor Kitty Piercy

Edewaard commenting on Eugene's high property crime rate,
“... We got into this business to chase criminals and get people’s property back,” Edewaard said. “But all we are doing is reacting. There isn’t a lot of proactive policing going on.”

the Eugene city Council will have to decide if and which public services that it will have to cut to fund more police hirings.

perhaps, one place to start, would be to get rid of the separation of "patrol officers" and "traffic officers".

For example, I would rather see the motorcycle police patrolling the neighborhoods than sitting out on the roads running radar. Motorcycles are cheaper to run than patrol vehicles, have wider visibility and flexibility. However, the motorcycles are part of the traffic team and therefore are not typically used for "patrol" purposes.

Another important issue, the 2008 Summer Olympic trials that will be held in Eugene.

How can a city that is so understaffed now, cope with the extra estimated 18,000 people per day visiting the city and provide adequate protection?

The answer, they can't!

The frustrating point is we apparently have no problems coming up with millions of dollars for the Emx bus system or any other pet projects, however, when it comes to our basic protection, we seem to fall flat on our faces.

Verizon's "IN" network: just don't assume

Robin's Commentary

Chances are if you're a Verizon customer, you've heard about the Verizon's "IN" network that allows customers to talk with unlimited minutes from Verizon to Verizon customers.

I'm a long time Verizon customer and I also subscribe to the "IN" network for the unlimited minutes to another Verizon phone. While I think it is really a great option, as I found out with both of my cell phones, just because you are a Verizon customer does not mean that you are automatically enrolled in their "IN" network.

On several different occasions, I have called Verizon to verify that my cell phone is included in the "IN" network, and I have even entered the phone number on their website which is supposed to also tell you whether or not you are "IN".

In both cases, I was informed that my cell phones were included, only to find out on my bill that they were not.

To give Verizon credit, they did adjust my bill on one of my phones without any hassle, however, my other phone which is still on an older plan had to be updated to the "family share" plan in order to be included in the "IN" network which also left me owing an extra $60 on my phone bill for the minutes that I was told at the time was included.

The point, if you're a Verizon customer, just don't assume and start racking up minutes without verifying that your phone is part of the "IN" network first.

Another child suffers the consequences of their parents decision to break the law

the Oregonian

Alejandra Trujillo a 20-year-old college student who was arrested on misdemeanor fraud charges on November 16 for producing incorrect identification when she went to have her drivers license renewed at the Hillsboro DMV office, is now being held indefinitely by ICE.

Trujillo who has been in this country since she was eight years old, will be deported to her native country Mexico.

Lorie Dankers, spokesperson for ICE, said that the agency regularly scans the rolls of county jails looking for individuals that are foreign-born and has the authority to flag an immigrant in custody if they have probable cause to believe that an immigration law has been violated.

"The sentiment across the country is these people are committing crime across our community, and they're not even here legally," Dankers said. "Do you want those people as your neighbors?"

Trujillo's friends and family along with other community members marched in front of Washington County Jail Wednesday with signs reading "no human being is illegal" and feel that deporting Trujillo does a disservice to the community.

there is no mention in the article about Trujillo's parents legal status. In either case, it is very doubtful that Trujillo came here by herself at the age of eight into this country.

Personally, I feel that bringing any child into a country illegally which will result sooner or later in that child facing federal authorities for being illegal should be considered child abuse by the parents.

California residents pass ordinance allowing ID cards for illegal aliens

The New York Times
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors gave preliminary approval to an ordinance to make life easier for the large number of illegal immigrants by allowing municipal identification cards to anyone living in the city regardless of their immigration status.

“I think it’s admitting the reality of the situation that we depend on, our tourist and hotel industry depends on, a labor force that’s supplied by, for lack of a better term, undocumented residents,” said Tom Ammiano, the supervisor who sponsored the bill. Mr. Ammiano described the measure as “a passport of sorts,” to “take the kid to the library or open a bank account, or report a crime without being deported.”

San Francisco already has a "sanctuary" policy forbidding local law-enforcement and other officials from assisting with immigration enforcement.

personally, I think this sends a message that enforces the opinion about the lack of respect for the law.

so why stop at illegal immigration?

How about issuing a "free pass" to people that have committed other types of crimes so they do not have to worry about being arrested when they go out in public?

Seriously, what's the difference?

A Carbon Tax?

the Oregonian
Portland -- city officials plan to charge hundreds of dollars for each new home that is not extremely energy-efficient in order to curb the growth of greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, it would require an energy efficiency report as part of every existing home sales.

The "carbon fee" would be levied upon builders who merely just comply with the energy efficiency requirements of the Oregon building code.

"Builders in Portland on Wednesday were already pushing back.

"There is no way the homebuilders will ever support a mandated program," said Jim McCauley, vice president of government affairs for the Homebuilders Association of Metropolitan Portland. "This has largely been a totally internal conversation with only select invited parties." "

The plan would also help maintain the city's reputation for "green living" and creates friendly competition between Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco, and Austin, Texas to try and "out green" each other.

"City Commissioner Dan Saltzman acknowledged that home builders may react strongly against it. To ease the industry into the fold, he said the plan would include a two-year period of city-funded technical support and education for builders."

Saltzman said that the idea for inspecting the energy efficiency of existing housing would be to disclose the information to home buyers, sellers, and the city.

The plan will go before Portland residents, in hearings, in January. With passage, the carbon-fee rules would be in place by 2010.

sounds to me like the only thing "green" about this proposal, is the tax revenue that it would generate.

restrict over-the-counter drugs Kulongoski pardons a woman convicted of using meth gets arrested again

Statesman Journal

Springfield woman, Kathy Kelly Sue Lee, 42, who was pardoned by Kulongoski in March 2006 after she was convicted in 1989 of dealing meth from her house and endangering her children, was recently arrested again after police uncovered evidence of methamphetamine use, including a glass pipe found in her purse that tested positive for meth residue.

"In her pardon application, Lee, said she had gone back to school to become a legal secretary and needed the pardon so she could get a better job that provided health insurance for herself and her two children. She said she had changed since that 1989 conviction and "would never do something like that again."

while I do not know the exact particulars of the 1989 conviction, and why Kulongoski has pardoned this woman, to me it seems rather two-faced, that our Governor, who required some over-the-counter to require a prescription, and including some medications which are no longer available at Oregon such as "Bronkaid" [which made my allergy season horrible] would pardon a woman for methamphetamine use and endangering her children.
It just seems rather odd to me.

Dog the bounty hunter show has been suspended

BBC News

Duane "dog" Chapman's show "Dog the bounty Hunter" has had his show pulled by the A&E network for racist comments.

The National Enquirer released a recording of the private phone call to his son Tucker urging him to break up with his girlfriend.

The five-minute recording captured Chapman's use of the "N-word" six times.

Even though Chapman has apologized for the use of the word in a "private" phone conversation, several civil rights leaders are requesting that the show be ditched.
granted, the use of the word was wrong,however, this is a PRIVATE conversation between Chapman and his son that was however recorded without Chapman's knowledge and then released to the media.

The result of which resulted in Chapman's show being suspended for an undetermined time.

In Oregon, a person is allowed to record a phone conversation as long as one of the two parties is aware of the conversation.

While I am not a lawyer, I would suspect that releasing a copy of that conversation especially to the media, which resulted in embarrassment to Chapman and the A&E network, in addition to the show being suspended, would be a liability issue to the person who recorded and released the recording to the media.

February 17, 2009, analog television becomes a thing of the past. Are you ready?

the Oregonian

By government decree, February 17 2009, millions of analog television sets without a converter box will go dark, to be replaced by digital.

Federal officials estimate that 45 million (20%) of the households in the US, get their TV signals over the air. Others receive their signals via cable or satellite service. this translates to roughly seventy three million TVs that will have to be converted or retired.

"If TVs suddenly go dark, millions of viewers will be looking for someone to blame. "You will have a disaster on Feb. 18, 2009, and people will be screaming -- not at you but at us," Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-Hawaii, told government officials Oct. 17."

Beginning January 1, 2008, the national telecommunications and information administration, an arm of the Commerce Department will begin accepting applications for $40 coupons that can be used to defray the cost of conversion boxes, which will cost anywhere between $50 and $70.

"The last thing we want is some sort of pitchfork rebellion with viewers storming down Pennsylvania Avenue looking for revenge," said Dennis Wharton, spokesman for the National Association of Broadcasters, a trade group whose core membership provides over-the-air TV."

TV manufacturers since March have been required to equip all new sets with digital tuners and retailers are required to attach "consumer alert" to unsold analog TVs. The FCC has already sent hundreds of warning letters to retailers that have failed to display the disclosure clearly.


Federal Communications Commission and the Commerce Department are the two federal agencies principally responsible for the switch.

that is all good and well that they are willing to give us coupons to defer the price of the digital converters, but not everybody has the money to buy a converter, or for that matter even, want to mess with a converter.

To my understanding, what they're not saying in the article, is that the whole reasoning for converting from analog to digital, is that it uses a narrower bandwidth and more frequencies can be sold.

We will see how "smooth" the conversion will go when millions of people do not switch to digital and advertisers start losing money.

The kicker... would you prefer it as a check or as a credit on your taxes?

Oregonian --
The kicker refund check which is scheduled to go out in early December, will cost the state of Oregon an estimated $2 million in borrowing costs and an estimated $1 million to print and mail the check's.

"I think we need to understand is sending out this kicker as a Christmas present is costing us a lot of money," says Senator Ginny Burdick who chairs the Senate's interim financing revenue committee.

The idea of a credit instead of cash is part of Ted "tax and gouge me" Kulongoski's 30 member tax reform task force discussion before the 2009 legislative session.

They are always trying to find a way to keep our money aren't they?

" sanctuary cities would lose discretionary federal grants, as would colleges and universities that allow illegal immigrants to pay in-state tuition."

KEZI--

Republican candidate Fred Thompson said Tuesday that the government should yank federal dollars from cities and states that don't report illegal immigrants and challenged presidential rivals Rudy Giuliani and Mitt Romney by criticizing "Sanctuary City's" that bar city workers from reporting suspected illegal immigrants.

Thompson feels that money should not be provided to illegal immigrants and that his rivals are soft on illegal immigration because Giuliani, as New York mayor, sued the federal government to keep his city's sanctuary policy, and that Romney as Massachusetts Governor had also tolerated sanctuary cities.

" The immigration issue is important to many conservatives who influence Republican primaries. Some argue that illegal immigrants are straining schools and hospitals and taking jobs from U.S. citizens.

Thompson chose to announce his plan in Collier County, which has vast tomato farms that hire thousands of immigrants and last year was part of a two-county sweep that saw 163 illegal immigrants arrested in one weekend.

Thompson's campaign said 22 percent of the county's crime is committed by illegal immigrants. "

"Taxpayer money should not be provided to the illegal immigrants," Thompson commented in a roundtable discussion.

" Thompson said to Collier County, Fla., sheriff Don Hunter, "You've clearly been swamped with a particular kind of problem because the federal government, in large part, has let you down and has not done their part. "

Under Thompson's plan, sanctuary cities would lose discretionary federal grants, as would colleges and universities that allow illegal immigrants to pay in-state tuition and has called for stronger laws forcing employers to verify that workers aren't illegal immigrants.

I'm back!

I have Internet service!!!

Not high-speed, but faster than dial-up.

It will take a day or two to get caught up on what is going on around the area, however I expect to resume blogging on Wednesday.

By the way, I'm looking into satellite Internet. Has anybody had any experience with satellite?

I look forward to blogging again and thank you all for your patience.

Robin

My dear readers,

Well, I'm still searching for some sort of semi-reliable Internet access. I've tried resorting to dial-up which works sporadically and I can only maintain communications for about five minutes if I'm lucky. I signed up for Verizon wireless Internet, which they assured me that they cover 90% of the United States and that my area should be covered. While as luck would have it, I am in the 10% that is not covered. AT&T, which is currently advertising that "the Internet can't hide anymore", has found a place to hide here. So my quest continues...

As I said in my previous post, there has been some good things and some bad things that have happened since I quit my job.

The plan... was that I moved in with my best friend who recently moved to North Dakota about a month before me, obtain my CDL, and start driving trucks for three dollars an hour more than I'm currently making.

I bought my friend a train ticket so that she could come down and help me work on the house and then take two vehicles back to North Dakota. On the day that we were getting ready to leave, her and my sister got into a fight which started a chain of events that cost me my best friend.

Shortly after arriving in North Dakota, I find that North Dakota has a residency requirement of 90 days before I can get a North Dakota driver's license or CDL and that you have to prove with a utility bill or some other official documents. A handwritten rent receipt is not acceptable proof.

Fortunately for me, in the meantime, my ex-best friend's friend is allowing me to stay with him until I get my CDL and get a job, in exchange, I have been helping him work on his trucks (he owns a trucking company) and help him around the farm.

I've also been restoring a 1987 Freightliner as part of my training.

Well, like the saying goes, "best laid plans..."

My home, and my family are still in Eugene.

I left my job on good terms, and although my company does not "backfill", my supervisor sent me several listings of jobs that I am eligible to apply for (assuming I can get to the Internet).

There are job opportunities here. So the dilemma is to stay here and take advantage of the opportunities or go back home and HOPE that I can find work before my reserves are totally expired.

Should I decide to stay to work, my heart and home are still in Eugene, and as soon as I can get reliable Internet service, I will resume the blog on a daily basis again. (They're not getting rid of me that easily)

So, keep checking back, and again, thank you for all your well wishes and support.

UGH! I miss my high speed internet!

Greetings and thanks for all the well wishes.

Yes, I am using dial up (UCK!) and it has taken this long to get it to work.

Lots of things have been happening since I left Eugene, some good and some bad.

will write more later. :-)

Robin

Robin's Nest and personal life changes

Robin's Commentary--

As some of my regular readers have discovered, postings to Robin's Nest has been sporadic lately. The reason for this is a major life change.

Today, I'm doing something that I've never done in my lifetime... leaving a job.

After semi surviving my experiences at Lane community college and the ridiculous amount of constant battle with financial aid, I was fortunate enough to land a job with a local Fortune 500 company where I have been for the last year.

While I'm not going to say anything good or bad about the company here, [I could spend all day on that subject] I will say that it has been a very interesting and very stressful experience to the point, that it has severely started to affect my health.

In the 13 months that I have worked for this company, I have had to take off more days more for being sick than with any other company in my life. So, I am forced to start asking my self, "Is the money really worth your health?"

In this particular case,no! it is a high stress, low-paying ($13 an hour) with not much room for professional advancement job.

So today is my last day.

While I do have the prospect of another job lined up, [despite what people at City Hall think, Eugene's economy sucks big time (or is that sucking sound the sound of more taxes being drained out of my savings?)]
unfortunately, during this transition, I will not have the time to post for at least a couple of weeks.

To my loyal readers, please continue to check back as Robin's Nest is only going to take a little vacation.

Wish me luck!

Sincerely,

Robin

What the heck are "Bike boxes", "Road diets", "Bike-ped","Contra-flows" , "bicycle boulevards" & "Complete streets"

Register guard--

It is the "Oregon bicycle and pedestrian plan" which is a state issued book on how roads and paths could be improved for cyclists and walkers who want to get around without their cars.

The "complete street" concept has been inspired by Eugene cycling advocates Paul Moore to include the concept of "muscle powered transportation" and to point out the cycling trouble spots which could be fixed or some ideas and standards in the states "bike-ped" plan

Eugene bicyclist correlation member Webb Sussman and Moore recently took a trip up High Street at 7th Ave to point out a worn out painted line of a "bike box" (pictured) at the intersection which is a designated area were cyclists may make their way from left to right side bike path. [I thought that's what crosswalks were for]
"Contra-flow" are streets such as 19th and Alder, or bike lanes that allow light traffic in both directions on a one-way street.

"Bicycle boulevards" are areas that include barriers to keep cars out.

A "Road diet" is a reconfiguration that would reconfigure a street from two-car lanes in each direction, to one lane each way, which would create space for bike lanes. The downside of a "Road diet" could mean eliminating the number of driveways and on street parking.
besides being another attempt to "get you out of your car", some of the suggestions like the "bike box" in my opinion is stupid and dangerous.
The "bike box" or other words known as "the advance stop line" consists of two lines at a traffic light. The first line is for motor vehicles. The second line, which is closer to the intersection, is for bicycles. On a red light, this allows bicyclists to overtake the waiting motor vehicles and cut in front of them.

" The "bike box" allows bicyclists to go to the head of the line and so, on casual observation, it appears to advance the status of bicyclists over that of motorists. Not only do bicyclists get to go to the head of the line but also, motorists must wait in line behind the bicyclists.{John Allen's bicycle facilities, laws and programs }-- "

Think about everyday driving downtown, and you can just picture just how dangerous this concept is.
{image courtesy of John Allen's bicycle facilities, laws and programs }

Teen driver may face charges in boy's death

Register Guard--

By guest commentator Gary
"Bailey Hill is without a doubt a dangerous obstacle course of lights and traffic," Bryce Vandiver said. "People don't use their turn signals and think speed limits and red lights are a suggestion."
"There's no enforcement,” Cynthia Anderson said. "There aren't even signs." She said she has called the city at least five times about drivers failing to stop for children trying to use the crosswalk. Her son crosses Bailey Hill Road daily and often waits as 10 to 12 cars zip past without stopping.
Eugene's traffic engineer Tom Larsen said the city has fielded calls about the stretch of roadway south of the Churchill High School. But his crash statistics don't back up neighborhood claims.
The city recorded one crash - a car hitting a tree - at the Bailey Hill and Westleigh intersection in all of 2003, 2004 and 2005 combined, he said. Numbers for 2006 were not available Tuesday.
There were nine recorded crashes at Bailey Hill Road and Warren Street during the same period. None of the wrecks was fatal.
"In terms of crash history, this is not a dangerous intersection," Larsen said.
I wonder how the family of 10-year-old Vaclav Hajek of Eugene feels about that statement. Vaclav, who lived nearby, was taken to Sacred Heart Medical Center, where he was declared dead after he was struck by a car on Monday. An initial investigation indicated that the driver was speeding south on Bailey Hill Road approaching Westleigh Street

it is unfortunate and very sad that someone got injured and killed, especially a child... but as far as the issue of vehicles running stop signs and red lights, in the area that I live, this is a very common phenomenon.
There is no excuse for running a stop sign!
Besides being extremely dangerous no matter how "clear" the intersection may seem, it is because of these idiots that they're putting up red light cameras, increasing insurance costs and changing laws and we have to pay for it because as somebody else stupidity.
I have personally assisted with the local PD in over 250 accidents. If you do not think that a car is dangerous, you're DEAD wrong. -- Robin

What does the EmX and the Hollow Road/Pioneer Parkway roundabout have in common?

Robin's commentary

The LTD EmX project is about to invest another $38 million into LTD's pet bus line which service is expected to begin in 2010.

I got to thinking about the overpriced bus system which is funded 80% by the Federal transit administration, 15% by "connect Oregon" in 5% by LTD match{LTD.org}--, and having the experience of trying to navigate through the roundabout during heavy traffic, which is an experience in itself, I began to wonder about how the Pioneer Parkway roundabout system will work LTD's EmX.

Although on the LTD web site, they have a map regarding the route... they do not indicate whether or not the "bus lane" will go through the roundabout itself, have a special lane through the roundabout, and/or some sort of traffic control device, which of course would defeat the whole purpose of having a roundabout.

I still have to ask the question that if the only advantage really to the EmX is that it has its own special bus lanes, why not just have the LTD fleet use the new bus lanes and save $800,000 per bus?

Proposal: Lane County inmates to share expense for their housing

KVAL--

Lane County Sheriff Russ Burger is proposing that inmates at the Lane County Jail should start sharing the expense for their housing, which costs about $82 a day per inmate

Under the proposal, inmates will pay $10 a day for their housing fees, $2 to see a nurse and $20 for follow-up visit.

" "One of the highlights of this proposal is if they leave and they owe money if they don't come back we will forgive that debt. that's incentive not to reoffend in our community. "

Inmates will pay up to 50% of the money that the inmate has on the books at the jail for the fees, this includes money that inmates have on them when they were arrested and any funds that people give them while they are locked up.

If approved, the sheriff says that this proposal would have a sunset date to make sure that it was cost-effective. He added that they will not pursue any collections and that they will only use the staff and resources the county currently has available to run the program to be cost-effective.

Berger believes that these fees could keep some inmates from going back to jail.
on the surface... a good idea, however, what if the inmate refuses to pay all together?

You are not going to pursue collections...
So, what is the worst that will happen to an inmate who has been released from jail owing fees that they refuse to pay? You going to put them back into jail?
The sheriff says that they would waive the fees if the inmate does not return to jail for two years... while possibly a good incentive, it is also an incentive for the inmate not to pay anything.
In my opinion, it would be worth it to eat what the inmate owes Lane County for jail fees if that inmate will stay on the straight and narrow.

Proposed ordinance would require homeowners to pay for upkeep of public sidewalks

Statesman Journal--

Salem -- proposed changes in sidewalk ordinances may require homeowners and businesses to pay for the upkeep of public sidewalks.

Previously, the city has been responsible for all sidewalk repairs unless it can prove that a property owner has damaged the sidewalk.
Question: if a homeowner has to pay for the sidewalk, does it now become private property?

In addition, if the city cannot afford to pay for the repairs to the sidewalk, how do they expect the public to do it?

I don't know about you, but I'm not wealthy. I have to take out a loan or borrow on a credit card soon just to paint my house

Moreover, why stop at sidewalks... how about paying for the maintenance of the streets in front of our houses (citing Garden Way in Eugene as an example)

Then who would be responsible for the streetlights, traffic signs, etc.

Tell me again why we pay property taxes... oh yes, I almost forgot... to fund the schools

ENTERING the country is illegal... BEING in the country is not! According to the Court of Appeals of the state of Kansas

kscourts.org--

Case number 96613 in a circuit Court of Appeals of the state of Kansas, State of Kansas versus Nicholas Martinez ruled that those who enter this country illegally is a crime and is subject to deportation, however, the illegal aliens ongoing presence in the United States in and of itself is not a crime unless that person has previously been deported and regained illegal entry into this country.

" 6. 8 U.S.C. § 1325 (2000) declares an alien's unsanctioned entry into the United States to be a crime. While Congress has criminalized illegal entry into this country, it has not made the continued presence of an illegal alien in the United States a crime unless the illegal alien has previously been deported and has again entered this country illegally. 8 U.S.C. § 1326 (2000) makes it a felony for an alien who has been deported to thereafter reenter the United States or at anytime thereafter be found in the United States. "

The case manifested itself when Martínez being an illegal alien would be unable to fulfill the mandated probationary terms, which requires the parolee not to violate any State or local laws, however, because of Martínez immigration status, his continued presence in the United States in itself is a violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326 (previously deported), which is a compelling reason to deny probation.

Additionally, "the district court does not engage in enforcing our nation's immigration laws by simply recognizing a defendant's immigration status for the purpose of deciding whether the defendants is amenable to probation."

In short, even though Martínez has pled guilty to the possession of cocaine and endangering a child, the two main issues (1) whether the fact that he is an illegal alien justifies the denial of presumptive probation and (2) whether the district judge gave him fair notice of her intention to impose a departure sentence.

Compaired to other states, Oregon is a whimp!

Robin's Commentary--

I just returned from visiting my best friend in North Dakota, which by the way, is the first time in 30 years that I have left the state, not to mention the furthest that have ever been from home and I have to admit, crossing Washington state, Idaho and Montana was an interesting experience.

One of the first things that I noticed right off as soon as I left Oregon, was the speed limit on the interstate, the slowest being 70 miles an hour in Washington state while the other states it was common to see 75 miles an hour as the speed limit.

The other thing that I noticed that was weird at first was the self-service gasoline.

Since I have lived in Oregon the majority of my life, this was scary at first however; I quickly took a liking to it. Not only was it faster to pull into a station and use my debit card without having to wait for an attendance, (or worrying that somebody's going to break my gas door again) it was especially convenient when I was low on fuel at 1 a.m. and was still able to buy gas. Apparently, it is not uncommon for stations to leave the pumps turned on after-hours.

I recall that several times in Oregon's history, the issue about self-service came up with the proponents claiming that it will reduce the cost of gasoline by reducing labor. While I will argue with that point, apparently, one big problem with self-service is what is known as "gas and run."

Each of the states that I went through had a warning on the pumps about the penalties for "gas and run." Montana for example warns that you will lose your license, while the other states warned that they would prosecute offenders severely.

So comparably based on my four state visit, Oregon seems kind of "wimpy" especially regarding the speed limit.

Announcement: Robin's nest is taking a long overdue vacation next week

A new law will require employers to fire workers who use false Social Security numbers or risk up to $10,000 in fines

New York Times--

Federal authorities are expected to announce tough new rules this week that would require employers to fire workers who use also security numbers in an effort to crack down on illegal immigrants.

"“We are tough and we are going to be even tougher,” Russ Knocke, the spokesman for the Department of Homeland Security, said yesterday. “There are not going to be any more excuses for employers, and there will be serious consequences for those that choose to blatantly disregard the law.” "

Employers, especially in the agriculture and low wage industries are deeply worried about the new rules, which could force them to lay off thousands of immigrant workers.

" Across the employer community people are scared, confused, holding their breath,” said Craig Regelbrugge, co-chairman of the Agriculture Coalition for Immigration Reform, a trade organization. “Given what we know about the demographics of our labor force, since we are approaching peak season, people are particularly on edge.” "

Immigrant rights groups and labor unions including the AFL-CIO are preparing to unleash discrimination against Hispanic workers complaint.

Mark Hinkle, a spokesman for Social Security estimates that an expected 140,000 no match letters will be sent to employers this year.

Homeland security officials say that stepped-up raids on workplaces will back up the new rules across the country that employs illegal immigrants.

Not only does falsifying or stealing somebody social security number harms the legitimate cardholder, it is also a federal offense.
It boggles the mind on how anybody can defend somebody else's usage of stolen identity.

All right, you win! We will “let” you vote on the new tax.

KVAL--

Eugene voters will actually get a chance to vote on the new gas tax and decide whether they should pay an extra three cents per gallon to fix the streets. However, at the same time, the city Council moved today (Wednesday) to make another two cents per gallon permanent.

Additionally, talks are underway between the city and some lane county commissioners to see if a countywide gas tax would be the ultimate solution.

Eugene officials say the three cents per gallon is not the whole answer, however is essential to fixing a backlog of street repairs into the millions of dollars.

Should a city be spending $200,000 on (or even being involved with) a centralized day labor site?

Portland Tribune--

Thomas Fitton, president of a legal watchdog group, Judicial Watch, placed Portland's mayor Tom Potter on notice in a faxed letter to Potter advising "serious legal concerns" with using taxpayer money to support day laborers most of whom are undocumented according to a 2006 UCLA and University of Illinois's study, which found that 75% of a sample surveyed of 2260 day laborers across the country were undocumented.

" “By establishing and operating the proposed day laborer site, the city will likely be violating federal law,” Fitton writes. "

A spokesman for Tom Potter, says they have received the letter and that "the mayor and the council have a different opinion and continue to move forward on it."

The city Council voted unanimously to approve the funds for the project, using it as a way to help the entire community amid concerns such as loitering around businesses, littering and traffic.

Clerk: "Can I see some ID please?" Customer: "Why??? It is only a can of spray paint!"

WWeek.com--

These are the questions that Commissioner Randy Leonard will have the clerks asking if he has it his way under a proposed anti-tagging ordnance.

Leonard, wants to make people of any age show ID when they buy spray paint & businesses would have to keep records for several months of who bought the paint and what color they bought in order to benefit police investigating graffiti.

Retailers who fail to comply would face fines as high as $20,000.

.... as we capture and tag the specimen so that we may track their natural day to day activities...

Register Guard--

Ocean City New Jersey beach meets high tech by replacing the plastic beach badges with high tech RF ID wristbands that visitors will wear while visiting the New Jersey beach shores.

The devices, will automatically debit the visitor's bank accounts or credit cards to pay for beach access, food and parking. Even the garbage cans have gone high-tech by e-mailing the cleanup crews when they need to be empty.

" this is the future, said summer resident Karen Kinloch, "is for at right now. It's probably overdue. It's kind of antiquated to take a piece of plastic and pin it to your swimsuit. "

The new system, which uses WiFi wireless technology, will cost about $3 million and is expected to be finished in next summer.

" It will take the hassle out of going up to people and asking to see their badges,'' Will McKinley, a badge checker said. ''They're more OK with it up here. On the beach, they don't like to be hassled.'' "

Ocean City spins more than $282,000 a year to pay for 170 badge checkers like McKinley whose job is likely to be eliminated by the new system.
welcome to the 21st-century folks

“…ability of millions of unidentified persons to illegally enter and remain in the United States presents a grave risk to the sovereignty"

Washington Times--

State Republican officials from across the country on Thursday will formally break with the desire of President Bush and other top Republican leaders to include amnesty and other benefits for illegal aliens in immigration-reform legislation.

So far, 47 members of the 168-member Republican National Committee have signed a resolution that unequivocally opposes the Bush-backed policy that would grant legal residency to millions of illegal aliens.

The resolution, fashioned by Arizona Republican Chairman Randy Pullen, asserts that the "ability of millions of unidentified persons to illegally enter and remain in the United States presents a grave risk to the sovereignty" of the nation and the American people.

"Congress has already authorized the construction of 854 miles of border fencing and appropriated $1 billion to construct it, and it is reliably reported that less than 20 miles of such fencing have been completed," the resolution says.

Do you think that electronic message boards on Eugene's highways are necessary?

RegisterGuard--

By next fall, ODOT will soon be installing three new traffic cameras, one on eastbound Beltline Road near River Road, I-5 southbound near 30th Ave., and another on I-5 North bound just before Highway 58 near Goshen with electric message boards which is intended to provide drivers with adequate warnings of any incidents on the roads ahead.

in many respects, I like the idea of the highway camera's , and sometimes use them myself when the weather gets bad. However, what comes to mind is the expense and usefulness of the electronic message boards. Although it would be nice to know that there is an instant up ahead, I could only see an advantage to it if there is an alternative route available.

Back on Monday...

after being really busy helping my friend move and with limited time in the day, The blog will resume as normal starting Monday

Lawsuit filed on recently enacted $.03 a gallon gas tax

KEZI--

Opponents of the recently enacted gas tax filed a lawsuit Tuesday morning at the Lane County Courthouse disputing how many valid signatures are needed to get the increase on the ballot.

In the petition, the number of signatures required for a referendum petition is 10% of the number of the votes cast for all candidates for mayor in the last election, emphasizing the word "candidates".

" There were no contribution and expenditure reports from anybody besides Kitty Piercy and that is required of all candidates so there were only 53,000 plus votes for candidates," said Lobbyist Paul Romain. "

Petitioners claim that if the write-ins are taken out of the equation that they would have enough valid signatures to give voters a chance to vote on the increase.
A hearing will be held this Friday at the Lane County Courthouse.

"... act of the youth being contrary to the statues in such cases made and provided and against the peace and dignity of the State of Oregon

the Oregonian --

The charges, "sexual abuse in the first degree" a class B felony.
The alleged crime, "unlawfully and knowingly, by means of forcible compulsion, subject [name withheld] to sexual conduct by touching a sexual or intimate part of [name withheld].
The accused, two 13-year-old boys who are being charged a felony sex abuse and harassment which is later changed to 10 misdemeanor charges, five sex abuse counts, five harassment counts {felony complaint}--for swatting female classmates on the buttocks while running back to class after lunch earlier this year.

According to The News Register{link}--, the bottom slapping was based on "party boy dancing" popularized by the movie, "jackass."

One girl, who was identified as a victim within the police report{link}-- told investigators that it was "no big deal... is like a handshake we do."

The boys face the prospect of 10 years in juvenile detention and a lifetime of sex offender registry.

Representative Tom Tancredo introduces (OVERDUE) immigration reform bill

Tancredo--

Washington, DC -- Congressman Tom Tancredo unveiled his "Optimizing Visa Entry Rules and Demanding Uniform Enforcement" (OVERDUE) immigration bill which will undoubtedly be unpopular among political elites, big business and big labor.

" “Congress must take on the tough issues and follow through on what we’ve been sent out here to do and serve in the best interest of the people we represent,” said Tancredo. “For too long the special interests and political heavy weights have tried to sell us on the need for an Amnesty and justify their refusal to enforce the law, but the American people fought back and said no thanks.” "

A few of the bill's provisions includes...

#Restoring America's immigration system to more traditional numbers.

#Eliminates "chain migration" the accordance with recommendations of the Jordan commission.

#Ensures the automatic birthright citizenship to children born in the US only if at least one parent is a citizen or a lawful permanent resident.

#Prohibits states from granting in-state tuition rates to illegal aliens on a basis of graduation from US high schools unless they offer the same rates to all US citizens.

#Affirms the inherent authority of state and local law enforcement officers to enforce the immigration laws of the United States.

What do you think of the Harlow Road roundabout?

KMTR--

Roundabouts are commonplace overseas, however, they are new to the people of Eugene/Springfield area and they are starting to show up at more and more intersections.

The question comes to play is that are they better than stoplights?

The roundabout in Springfield at Harlow Road and Pioneer Parkway has been in service for nine months, and according to the Lane County Sheriff's office, there haven't been any injury accidents yet at this location.

Some drivers (including myself) think that these intersections are dangerous in design, however, the Springfield public works department who have been monitoring traffic with a surveillance camera disagrees.

" we found occasionally errors and mistakes being made," observes traffic engineer Brian Barnett, "and over time, those mistakes have diminished and gone away almost completely. "

that could be as people like me go out of their way to AVOID this intersection as much as possible!
The Oregon Department of Transportation will release in January will release statistics for accidents at this location.
personally, I do not understand the logic of the such as the one at Harlow Road. First of all, the ones that they use overseas are huge. Secondly, cramming four lanes of traffic into one little intersection, especially during rush hour, is supposed to be more EFFICIENT than a well-timed stoplight? I don't think so.

Online radio stations face potential closers due to increased royalty fees

BBC News--

On Wednesday, an appeal court declined to grant a petition by net radio stations to delay the introduction of new royalty fees which could increase payments to smaller stations by 1200% while larger stations go to up to 300% more.

The new fees will a flat fee increasing from .08 to .19 PER-SONG, PER-USERS in addition to a $500 fee for every channel owned by a station.

An Internet radio station with an average of 1000 users, would have to pay royalty fees of
.19 per track
x 10 tracks per hour
x 1000 listeners
= $1900 per hour

Previously, stations paid an annual fee plus 12% of their profits.

Additionally, the fees to be collected will retrospect for 2006.

" Jake Ward, a spokesperson for SAveNetRadio coalition, said: we are disappointed that the court failed to acknowledge the irreparable and quite frankly, devastating effect these new royalties will have on the Internet radio industry. "

The coalition is urging supporters of his campaign to lobby congressmen to back the new bill, the Internet radio equality act, which would bring net fees in line with satellite radio station.

Additional information{Recording industry Association of America [RIAA]}--

They are wanting us to have our cars checked every year by the EPA, however, they won't stop field burning?

KVAL--

Residents of Lane County suffer through it every year -- field burning.

" "This is a threat to public health," State Representative Paul Holvey tells us. "And the legislature should have stepped in and done something about it, based on the science and the information we have about the health impacts." "

House Bill 3000, which would have banned the practice in the Willamette Valley pass through the health committee, only to "go up in smoke" in the agricultural committee.
The first burn this season on Tuesday, sent thick smoke from Harrisburg field down to West Eugene.

" "That's why field burning doesn't work in the Willamette Valley," explains Lane County Commissioner Bill Dwyer, "because nobody can control the elements that are associated. Whether it's a guess, or a gamble at best, we shouldn't gamble with the health of our citizens." "

sure, that makes sense, air quality is so bad in the area that residents in Eugene/Springfield area may soon have their cars inspected every year. We are being forced to change our gasoline by adding ethanol to reduce greenhouse emissions, and yet, especially in the Willamette Valley otherwise known as “hay fever valley” in a state where you cannot even get medications anymore for hay fever, it is okay to gas us out with field burning.

A new law that went into effect would make passing like this illegal

Registerguard--

Oregon Sen. Floyd Prozanski, just six days before the end of the legislative session, pushed for a bill that would create a new "vehicular homicide" law that would make it easier for negligent drivers who cause the death of another person to face criminal charges and jail time.

Senate Bill 1058 was just one of four introduced in the final two weeks of the legislative session intended to protect bicyclists on the roads.

"He was doing everything by law, doing everything he was supposed to do, and she just killed the guy and walked away with a fine," Prozanski said of the Aloha resident who hit O'Donnell who was killed last month riding his bicycle outside of Portland. "

Of the four bills, Senate Bill 108 crates the offense of "unsafe passing of a person operating a bicycle" which requires a motorist on a country road to allow enough space that a cyclist could fall onto the road and still be passed safely.

Senate Bill 789, which has already been signed into law by Governor "Ted tax and gouge me", the creates special license plates that read "share the road."

Senate Bill 3314 would impose harsher penalties for drivers who injure other "vulnerable users" of the roads, which include pedestrians, cyclists and skaters.
(Photo by Brian Davies -- Registerguard)
this is all good and well, however, I would also like to see stiffer penalties for bicyclists who break the law.

For example, the other night as I was heading over to a friends house... I was at a stop sign, looked both ways of course... and as soon as I started to proceed... suddenly out from the shadows come these two bike riders riding at a pretty good clip with no lights, dark clothing, riding in the middle-of-the-road way, and I came very close to hitting them. I slammed on the brakes to avoid them, and of course they're yelling at me because I did not see them.
Maybe we should pass a law that requires ALL bicycles to come equipped with lights.

speaking of illegal... in the picture above, I don't think you're supposed to be riding two a breast, and riding on the white line of the bike lane.

Question: should Congress and the White House keep secrets from each other?

Examiner.com--

Presidential executive power is an issue that Congress and President Bush will be battling over when Congress returns from vacation.

Monday was the deadline for the White House to explain why President Bush is refusing to comply with a congressional subpoena for e-mails and other documents involving the firing of eight federal prosecutors last winter.

Bush said in a previous interview regarding subpoenas for White House staff to testify, that Karl Rove and former counsel Harriet Myers would be available for interviews, however, will not testimony under oath.

" "We will not go along with a partisan fishing expedition aimed at honorable public servants," "{MSNBC March 20, 2007}--

Bush declared executive privilege on the documents subpoenaed by congressional committee's arguing that they would damage the confidential nature of advice given the president.

" "There comes a point where the White House has to say, 'Hey, look there are certain confidential things in the White House that we're not going to share with Congress, just like there are certain confidential things in Congress that we're not going to share with the White House,'" Hatch, R-Utah, said on CBS' "Face the Nation." "

Not complying with the subpoenas could result in contempt of Congress.

The Empire Has a Challenger --

KMTR--

For years, Microsoft's Bill Gates has been the richest man in the world, until today when Mexican telecom tycoon Carlos Slim beat him by $8.6 billion.

Carlos Slim's fortune stands at 59.2 billion compared to Bill Gates $57.8 billion.

Slim's wealth increased by 27% due to a surge in price share of his largest company, America Movil that became Latin America's biggest mobile phone network.
Poor Uncle Bill.. He just had to extend the warranty on his Xbox by one year due to numerous mechanical failures... his new operating system Vista is not catching on as fast as he wished that it would... and now for the first time in years, he's no longer the wealthiest man in the world.

Kulongoski signs bill to require gasoline sold in the state to be mixed with 10% ethanol

Statesman Journal--

Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski signed a measure that would require gasoline sold in the state to be mixed with 10% ethanol after in-state production of ethanol reaches 40,000,000 gallons per year.
A similar target for biodiesel crops will trigger mandatory 2% blend in all diesel fuels sold in Oregon.

" "These bills will not only create financial opportunities for Oregon's agricultural sectors, but it will help reduce our greenhouse gas emissions while creating thousands of jobs in rural Oregon," said Kulongoski. "It will move Oregon significantly down the road to a renewable energy future, creating hundreds of millions -- if not billions -- of dollars of investment." "

Critics of biofuels are concerned about the amount of energy they take to grow and that they may be driving up the price of food such as corn.

" "Today is about signing legislation that creates a lasting environmental legacy for future generations," said Kulongoski. "

what worries me about this size the higher price per gallon at the pump, is what happened in Medford and Portland when during the summer they switched to a gasoline additive which in turn clogged the fuel pumps of the vehicles.
The reason is that Ethanol bonds to water and the mixture falls to the bottom of the tank as a separate layer of sludge.{link}--

Older carbureted vehicles in particular may have problems with the ethanol blend.

Another concern is the effect on fuel lines and rubber hoses breaking down.

A good idea? We'll see.

Have a Happy Independence Day

celebrating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from Great Britain.

(It's more the just a Holiday!)

are you ready for the 2008 Olympic trials? Is Eugene ready?

KEZI--

Robin's Commentary

In case you have not heard, there is a huge event coming to Eugene next year.

The 2008 Olympic trials for track and field is just 362 days away.

Businesses and hotels are remodeling and gearing up for the big event. Some hotels have already booked full.

There is even a towering countdown clock at 5th street market, which will count down how many days until the trials get on the way.

Although as far as a quick boost the local economy, the question is... is Eugene really ready?

Were constantly hearing that we don't have the funds for "public safety" to protect the public as it is, how are they going to handle an influx of an estimated 18,000 people per day?

Additionally, being the fact that we are constantly ADVERTISING what charges the DA will not prosecute due to budget cuts and jail space... I can see this area ripe for illegal activity.

How about our infrastructure and roads?

I can definitely see this thing bring the city to a halt.

And lastly... with such a profound effect on the lives of the people in Eugene/Springfield, unless I missed it, did we even have any input on the matter?

I for one, have no interest in going to the events... will you?

President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney say no to congressional subpoenas

Yahoo -- AP news--

Washington -- President Bush rejected subpoenas for documents from former presidential counsel Harriet Miers and former director Sara Taylor as they rejected plans for White House documents and testimony about the firing of US attorneys. The White House made it clear citing executive privilege that neither one will testify.

Presidential counsel Fred Fielding said Bush had made a reasonable attempt at compromise however, Congress forced the confrontation by issuing subpoenas.

" The assertion of executive privilege was the latest turn in increasingly hostile standoffs between the administration and the Democratic-controlled Congress over the Iraq war, executive power, the war on terror and Vice President Dick Cheney's authority. A day earlier, the Senate Judiciary Committee delivered subpoenas to the offices of Bush, Cheney, the national security adviser and the Justice Department about the administration's warrantless wiretapping program "

Senator Patrick Leahy, chairman of the Senate Judiciary committee stated "increasingly, the president and vice president feel that they are above the law."

I ran out of time to do a more in-depth article, however, is still raises the question that I brought up for years is where is the checks and balances in our governmental system?

It is well-known, that once someone gets into office that they can just about do whatever they want and it takes an act of God to do anything about it. And in the 21st century, things can happen so quickly that the current process of dealing with a rogue president or governor for example would take too long before the damage is done.

Perhaps, it is time to borrow parliaments idea and add the option of "no confidence" if at the very least to temporary suspend a public officials powers until a full investigation could be done.

Should the customers of PGE bail out OMSI?

Statesman Journal--

Senate Bill 994 proposes to use the 3 % surcharge on Portland General Electric customers in the Portland area in order to bail out Oregon Museum Of Science and industry (OMSI) $4.6 million delinquent loan with money that was intended to fund efficiency measures and renewable energy.

Originally, the 3% public purpose surcharge was passed by the Legislature in 2002 was originally designed to be used to fund Energy Trust of Oregon to promote energy efficiency.

Lawmakers insisted that the surcharge was consistent with the intent of the original proposal and that the loan was given to OMSI based on energy conservation efforts made at the museum's new building.

Tancredo amendment to cut funding for sanctuary city's passes with strong bipartisan support

Tancredo ----

An amendment to HR 2638 offered by US Representative Tom Tancredo which passed the House by 234-189 with strong bipartisan support cuts funding from the Department of Homeland security (DHS) to cities that employ a "sanctuary policy" to illegal aliens.

" The Times, they are a changing," said Tancredo, "This should serve as a warning sign to the White House and supporters of re-introducing an amnesty bill from the Senate. If that legislation makes it to the house, it is in serious trouble." "

The amendment to HR 2638 would prevent cities like Denver and San Francisco, who employ a sanctuary policy for illegal aliens from receiving first responder funds, including law enforcement and terrorism prevention grants, along with other programs.

Related information:
{The Library of Congress HR 2638}--

H.AMDT.294 Amendment (A045) offered by Mr. Tancredo. (consideration: CR H6468-6469, H6494-6495; text: CR H6468)
An amendment numbered 7 printed in the Congressional Record to prohibit funds to be used in contravention of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996. {summary HR 2638}--

Mexico: almost 300 high-ranking federal police officers have been suspended temporarily

BBC News--

Mexican President Felipe Calderon continues with his promise that he made about his first hundred days in office under a program which he calls "keep Mexicans at home"{Tucson Citizen}-- and to make Mexico a better place for Mexicans to live.

One of his key priorities since coming into office was the fight against drug traffickers, and he is starting by suspending almost 300 high-ranking federal police officers in Mexico in order to tackle corruption within the force.

With dozens of federal officers found working for the country's drug cartels over recent years, officers will now face a "trust test" which will include drug checks, a lie detector, and psychological test. The officer's family and friends may also be investigated and the officer's bank records checked.

" "There are mafias that don't want the situation to change so they can continue to enrich themselves under the protection of corruption and crime," said Public Safety Secretary Genaro Garcia Luna. "

Those who fail the test will lose their jobs however, those who scored the highest marks will be promoted to regional Federal police chiefs.

A new group "Americans for immigration reform" wants to promote how vital immigrants are to the economy

Houston Chronicle--

Houston business leaders want politicians and the public to know how vital immigrants are to the economy so they are creating a national coalition in Washington, DC called Americans for Immigration Reform.

" "We think that it's the responsible thing to do, to engage in the discussion rather than sit back and wring our hands," said Jeff Moseley, president and chief executive officer of the partnership, which is spearheading the effort. "We know that for Houston and this region to be world-class, there has to be a thoughtful, comprehensive reform to immigration, and now is the time." "

Currently the new group does not have a list of what it is they will be lobbing Congress for, however, the partnership has urged Congress to come up with a temporary worker program that could match workers with employers.

The coalition says that it will counter the arguments made by talk radio and television host who were opposed to immigration reforms, said Jeff Moseley, president and chief executive officer of the partnership.

In Houston, immigration is a hot issue because of the nearly 250,000 illegal workers or 10% of the area job force, which

" "Because of our proximity to the border, we have a significant immigrant community," said Foster, a partnership board member. "We realize that this gets to the very fabric of our community and who we are." "

illegal aliens contribute $27.3 billion to the Houston area's gross regional product.
and that is exactly what we're trying to avoid... Americans being
assimilated in to the Mexican culture in the United States and not the other way around.

additionally, I wish that they would stop throwing "immigrants" in the same category as "illegal aliens". There is a major difference.

Meth lab found along Franklin Blvd

KEZI--

A transient camp with a full-service meth lab was found during a routine cleaning up along the Willamette River was discovered in Springfield near Island Park.
people who travel regular through the area are well familiar with the transients who reside at this location. Not really a surprise is it?

should you lose Your property if you fail to report a crime?

Statesman Journal--

A constitutional proposal won final approval Thursday in the Oregon Senate in which voters will decide to loosen restrictions on whether police agencies should have more power to seize and sell property tied to illegal activity.

The previous 2000 initiative measure required police get a conviction before they can pursue a forfeiture. The measure also said that proceeds from the sale of seized property could not be used to pay for police operations.

The measure adopted Thursday would allow police to keep some of the money they generate.

" If adopted by voters, the measure would allow police to take property that is not related to a specific conviction if the person is found guilty of a similar crime.
Moreover, a person who is not convicted could lose property if he or she KNEW a crime was being committed and failed to stop or report it. "

Senator Ginny Burdick, who supported the measure, called it a compromise approach that was drawn up between law enforcement groups and the American Civil Liberties Union which sponsored the 2000 initiative.

" "This retains protections against unreasonable forfeitures, but it would still allow law enforcement agencies to use this valuable tool against drug traffickers," the Portland Democrat said. "

let me get this straight... if you even KNEW of a crime you could lose YOUR property?

Does anybody else see how this could go so terribly wrong?

it's a tax increase! No, it's a fee increase! Like there's a difference?

Statesman Journal--

House Bill 3551 approved by the Ways and Means subcommittee on transportation and economic development approved a $15 increase in the "fees" to record real estate and other documents at county courthouses across the state.

The new “tax” is designed to reduce homelessness and stem Oregon's housing affordability crisis.

" "We're very excited," said Eugene legal aid attorney John VanLandingham, a longtime advocate for low-income housing. Advocates have sought such a permanent funding source for 17 years, VanLandingham said. "

The plan hit a snag when legislative attorneys ruled that it was a ruled it was a tax increase, not a fee increase, which requires a 60% super majority to pass.

The original package was designed to raise $30 million a year based on an inflated estimate for the number of documents ever recorded each year.

The final package was changed to direct some funds to minority homebuying program.

let me see if I understand this correctly...
a fee is not a tax, and a tax is not a fee, however they both add to the cost.

And raising fees/taxes to buy a house makes houses more affordable?

"It's a floor wax! It's a dessert topping! You're both right!{SNL}--

Who really pays a price for illegal immigration?

The Oregonian--
"Are my parents going to be taken, too?"

Robin's Commentary
In a recent editorial by Steve Duin regarding the round up of 167 undocumented workers at fresh Del Monte's North Portland processing plant, and discussing the aftermath of the raid on the plant brings up an excellent point in my opinion.

What about the children of illegal immigrants?

The children see their parents being hauled off by immigration or in the case of Graciela Barajas, mother of two children who has to explain to her children why now she now can't leave the house between the hours of 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., and why she is wearing a weird looking bracelet on her ankle.

What will the parents tell their children?

What will they say when they ask "Mommy, why is this happening to us, and will this happen to me, too?"
A question that the teachers at Clarendon elementary school had to answer.

""We didn't want to make it too obvious," said Principal Antonio Lopez of Clarendon Elementary School, so he had teachers tell their students they were looking for summer jobs and needed a few suggestions. How many parents work in restaurants, the kids were asked? How many work for PGE or the Port? And how many parents work at Fresh Del Monte?

"Seeing the terror on their faces is something I'll never forget," Meza said. "When you see a kid cry, you aren't human if you aren't disturbed. You can't change the world, but you do what you can." "

under any other circumstances, the children would be placed in therapy to help them cope with the trauma of their parents being ripped away from them. Do we put these children in therapy? Do we punish these children for their parents actions?

Nevertheless, who is really at fault?

The people who cross the borders illegally or the system that doesn't stop them

How can Hispanic students improve academically? Start turning off the Spanish-language television sets

Fox news--

San Francisco --
This advice comes from Arnold Schwarzenegger, an immigrant himself from Austria when asked Wednesday night at the National Association of Hispanic Journalists when he was asked how Hispanic students can improve academic performance.

" "You've got to turn off the Spanish television set" and stay away from Spanish-language television, books and newspapers ... "I know this sounds odd and this is the politically incorrect thing to say and I'm going to get myself in trouble," he said. "But I know that when I came to this country, I very rarely spoke German to anyone.""

Schwarzenegger's comments did not sit well with some of the audience members.

" "I'm sitting shaking my head not believing that someone would be so naive and out of it that he would say something like that," Alex Nogales, president and CEO of the National Hispanic Media Coalition, said Thursday, immigrants need Spanish-language media to stay informed and "function in this society" "

Pilar Marrero, the political editor for the Spanish-language newspaper La Opinion, chuckling that many Hispanics to not have time to learn English, "they're too busy working"

Rafael Olmeda, president of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) said most most members would agree with the governor statements.

" "Most people I've spoken to walked away believing that he was trying to say that we must learn English to succeed in American society," Olmeda said. "

In the past, Schwarzenegger has been criticized by Democrats when he said that Mexican immigrants who "tried to stay Mexican" when they come to the US are urged to learn English and US history and "to make an effort to become part of America."
good advice from somebody who has been there, e.g. Schwarzenegger. "I very rarely spoke German to anyone."
However, negative statements such as "many Hispanics do not have the time to learn English" and being offended by feeling that they "MUST learn English to succeed in American society" are not exactly helping to make a positive impact on immigration issues.

It’s only $3 million...

KVAL--

Public safety -- don't have the money.
Fix the roads -- don't have the money, besides we need public transportation more
How about a new bike path that will follow the Willamette River?
No problem, we can take $3 million in federal funds to pay for the path.
right pocket, left pocket, it's all the same pair of pants... think about it

Do you agree that a moratorium should be put on immigration raids?

Statesman Journal--

Salem Oregon -- Immigrant rights groups are calling for a nationwide moratorium on workplace raids after Tuesday's immigration raid by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at a Portland food processing plant.

The group claims that the results of the raids has caused fear and trauma to the children and families (buzzword alert!) of those taken into custody.

" "Aggressive and far-reaching raids across the country have disrupted the lives of thousands of families," Aeryca Steinbauer, the coordinator of CAUSA {CAUSA }--said. "The struggle to support the separated families and hold (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) accountable for these inhumane raids must go hand-in-hand with our continued fight for fair and humane comprehensive immigration reform." "

People that are opposed to illegal immigration are giving the federal government kudos for the raid.

"I believe that if somebody is in violation of our laws, they should be accountable for it. " Jim Ludwick the president of McMinnville based Oregonians for immigration Reform said, "we urge federal officials to prosecute anybody who is aiding and abetting illegal aliens... it's time we start holding employers accountable for hiring people who are in our nation illegally."

"don't do the crime if you can't do the time." -- Baretta

Why should only be head of the illegal immigrant household have to return to their countries?

KEZI--
Senator's work to revive immigration bill

WASHINGTON -- the Republican and Democratic senators are reaching for a deal to resurrect their stalled immigration compromise by requiring that some $4 billion be spent on border security and workplace enforcement, which is part of a plan that grants legal status to millions of illegal aliens could be possible as early as Thursday.

Senator Kennedy of Massachusetts said he supported a bid to provide mandatory funding for border security and enforcement.

""You give the assurance that when this is signed, that there are going to be the resources to do the kind of security protections that are in this legislation," Kennedy said. "

Under the proposal by Sen. Jon Kyl and Sen. Lindsey Graham, funding would be up front for border security and workplace enforcement.

" "Everybody's trying to prove that they are willing and able to enforce the law this time, unlike 1986, (and 2007) " Kyl said, referring to the last major immigration overhaul, which established a one-year amnesty program for illegal immigrants who had been in the U.S. at least four years.
"What better way to demonstrate that other than to say, 'We're not going to let congressional appropriations dictate this—we are going to put the money up front,'" Kyl said. "

Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas was to require all illegal immigrant head of households to return to their countries of origin before obtaining legal status, only if they are seeking green cards, permit legal residency.

why should only the head of household be required to return home? What about the other members of the household?

I'm assuming what Senator Hutchinson is thinking is that it would cut down the amount of illegals that would have to be deported.

here are a few things that I see wrong with that plan...
#1 -- you are still going to separate the families
#2 -- with the removal of the primary income earner, more people on welfare and public assistance
#3 what determines the head of household?

Personally, I feel that the laws should not be selectively enforced based on somebody's household status.

a Recent Investigation of American Staffing Resources Inc. found that more than 90% of the employees Social Security numbers were stolen

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)--

Portland, Oregon -- U.S. Customs and enforcement agents executed arrest and search warrants at three Portland locations as part of the ongoing investigation into alleged criminal violations by employees of a national staffing firm that hires workers for the processing plant operated by Fresh Del Monte Produce in Portland.

In a joint investigation to covered by ICE and the Social Security Administration, office of Inspector General, found evidence of the production and distribution of forged documents and the employment of illegal aliens, some of the individuals were using Social Security numbers which apparently have criminal records, have been previously deported or on warrants of deportation.
The Social Security administration found that there were at least 29 Social Security numbers from deceased persons, 18 juveniles, 13 who are more than 70 years old, and seven persons who are 60 or above and are receiving disability benefits.
One of the consequences of misuse of a person so security number can result in the TRUE owner of that number having benefits reduced, suspended or terminated.

According to Fox news{[link]}--, only 48 of nearly 600 employees Fresh Del Monte Produce had valid Social Security numbers.

Portland Mayor Tom Potter was angered about the raids.

""I am angered by this morning's arrest by federal officers of approximately 150 Portland residents who were working at a local produce company. "{KGW}--

Potter continued by stating that "our nation would be better served if it's kind of energy was focused on creating a comprehensive approach to immigration Reform and provides a path to citizenship..." continues Potter,” my heart goes out to the families dealing with the aftermath of this morning." {I am assuming Potter is referring to all those people who have had their lives ruined by identity theft}
Potter stated that no Portland police officers participated in the raids.

Immigrant rights groups, church and labor leaders gathered outside downtown Edith Green/Wendall Wyatt Federal Building this afternoon to denounce the raids.

" "We are at a crossroads as a nation to decide what kind of country we want to be," said Aeryca Steinbauer of CAUSA, a statewide immigrant-rights coalition. "There will be long-term trauma to many children" [buzzword alert!] who will be separated from deported parents."{Oregonian breaking news}--

Tom Potter, Aeryca Steinbauer of CAUSA, Senator Ron Wyden and others be worried about the children of criminals who broke into their houses? Burglars have families too.

I will say it again, yes, our immigration system can use an overhaul, however, totally bypassing the system is not the answer.

Immigration bill fails the Senate 45-50

Who are the real winners and losers of the comprehensive immigration bill?

Robin's Commentary
Remember the old rule, "follow the money"? Perhaps that question should be asked of Senator Kennedy and President Bush as they both tried so hard to pass the “immigration Reform" bill.

The question is, why didn't the immigration reform bill pass? Was it because Congress realized that the real issue was the fact that people by the millions every year across our borders illegally and infiltrating our infrastructure or was it some other self-serving reason, like cheap labor and big profits?

Nevertheless, the question at hand is what to do about the millions of people that "slipped" into our country illegally for whatever reason.

The quandary is, do we reward people who have broken our laws merely by their presence in this country? If so, then what message does that really send to our children??[shameless buzzword]

"If enough people are violating the law, don't worry about it, it's OK"

Despite the results of the vote, according to some, the immigration bill is not dead.

" "No, it's not dead. Defeat is not an option "said Colorado Sen. Ken Salazar in an interview with CNN {the Minutemen civil Defense Corps's}--

Senior State officials and Lawmakers believe that the bill had less than a 50-50 chance of being resurrected, and that there's already talk about considering separate issues such as provisions among agricultural workers and education aid for certain immigrant children. [Buzzword]

" “The White House has so far failed to rally Senate Republicans behind tough, fair and practical immigration reform,” Senate majority leader Harry Reid said in a statement Friday. “I will bring the immigration bill back to the Senate floor as soon as enough Republicans are ready to join us in moving forward on a bill to fix our broken immigration system.” "{New York Times}--

Locally, it was surprising [at least to me] that the Senator Gordon Smith, who's been an advocate for illegal immigration, voted against the bill, however, his cohort on the other side of the aisle, Democratic Senator Ron Wyden voted in favor.

Senator Smith, said that he supported the concept of the immigration Reform, however added the "devil is in the details." Ron Wyden on the other hand believes that the first thing an immigration bill must do is focus on border protection.

"After that make sure that laws on the books are enforced," Wyden said. "If employers knowingly hire illegals they ought to be punished." {The Oregonian}--

Republican Senator Mike Crapo of Idaho also voted against the bill stating that he was concerned about a provision for a temporary work program because it would give an unfair advantage to people who entered the country illegally.

"I continue to believe a person should not gain an advantage or benefit toward citizenship or legal permanent resident status as a result of illegal entry into the United States," Crapo said. "This only encourages further illegal immigration." "{The Oregonian}--

All this actually distracts from the real issue, that millions of people have illegally bypassed the due process of law and violated the security of our borders for their own personal gain, while at the same time, the United States selectively failed to enforce those laws for financial gains.

The damage is done. So how do you fix the problem?

I agree with Representative Steve Kings suggestion about amending HR3095 which would amend the internal revenue code of 1986 to clarify that wages paid to unauthorized aliens may not be deducted from gross income..."

In short, take the money equation out of the issue, and it should solve itself.

A bill to restrict the annoying automated political phone calls under Senate Bill 863

The Oregonian--

Robin's Commentary

For me, one of the fastest methods that politician could use to get a no vote from me is to use one of those automated telephone solicitors. you know the ones that just as soon as you pick up the telephone you hear an advertisement in your ear.

Plus, even if you're one of those that have signed up for the "do not call" list, you will still receive political phone calls.

Senate Bill 863, recently out of the House rules committee Wednesday, offers to restrict the so-called "Robo calls" does imposing fines of $5,000 per call.

However, groups such as the Oregon education Association are against the idea because "Robo callers" are a cheap way for campaigns to reach out to voters.

Personally, I've always felt that if my telephone is going to be used as a device for advertising, that my phone bill should be subsidized by those companies for the privilege.

The bill passed out of committee unanimously. It heads to the house, where, if it passes, it needs Senate concurrence in the House amendments to become law.

Final show for Bob Barker of the Price Is Right

KVAL--

Bob Barker the host of "Price is right" has decided that after 35 years of hosting the show, that he will "come on down" for the last time this Thursday.

Bob Barker's final show is slated to air on June 15.
His replacement has yet to be announced.
just like Jay Leno replacing Johnny Carson, good luck

Taxes: That's 2

Register Guard--
[Another] Tax Repeal Initiative Underway


Backers of a recent initiative will be seeking 6,365 signatures by registered Eugene voters by the end of June to repeal the latest city councils recent increase in the city's gas tax which increased the gas tax from five cents a gallon, to eight cents a gallon.

Additionally, backers of the repeal are also seeking to knock the city gas tax down an additional three cents a gallon.

The City Council, by 6-2 vote last Tuesday, voted to raise the city gas tax to eight cents a gallon in order to collect an extra $2 million annually to repair streets.

The counselors also voted NOT to let a previous two cents a gallon increase expire.

" City Council President Andrea Ortiz, who voted for the gas tax increase, said station owners "are more than welcome" to collect signatures.
"That is why the repeal process is in place," she said.
But Ortiz said she disagrees with their goal. "Will this (repeal) get us closer to taking care of the potholes?" she asked. "I don't think so."
The gas tax is the "fairest" way to finance street repairs because motorists are the ones who use the roads, Ortiz said. "

The special election could cost the city about $100,000 according to city recorder Mary Feldman.
Considering the results from recent action from the Lane County Commissioners, you would think that it would send a message that we are tired of local government going out and spending our money without our permission.
Part of the reason that I vote no on any increase in taxes, is perception. For example, we just spent millions of dollars on a 14 mile bus lane with a fleet of four buses, and yet we don't have money for public safety or to maintain our public roadways.
Additionally, it SEEMS like they (local government) always are able to find money for it ANY OTHER projects that they want EXCEPT basic services.
I guess, when local government can demonstrate to me that they can actually MANAGE a budget, then I would be more willing to share my very LIMITED hard earned money.