Nonspecific Blog

Moneyball: B

2012-01-29T10:41:00.000-08:00

I watched Moneyball last night at home via Amazon Video On Demand. I'm not a sports fan and consider baseball to be ridiculous and unwatchable, but Moneyball is not really about baseball. Like other sports movies I've recently watched, The Damned United and Invictus, Moneyball focuses less on the sport itself and more on the professional sports industry and culture.

I enjoy movies that make an effort to seem realistic and, to my non-sports fan perspective, Moneyball at least felt realistic so me. It's about the Oakland A's general manager Billy Beane (Brad Pitt) who realizes that he can't compete with the other teams' player budgets, so he hires an Ivy-league economist who uses statistical analysis to hire affordable, unknown players. Admittedly, that description doesn't sound very compelling. What makes the movie interesting is Beane's struggle to implement his statistical approach against the passionate, traditional baseball management.

Hugo: D

2012-01-23T22:08:00.000-08:00

Automaton from Hugo

Pipe man from overactive bladder medication, VESIcare. (Image stolen from Etsy.com)

Scott dragged me to Martin Scorsese's Hugo last weekend. I have to admit that I did not give this movie a chance. Having no interest in seeing it, I completely mis-remembered the trailer and carried a lot of ill-conceived preconceptions going into the theater. I assumed Hugo was about a robot -- which is understandable considering how prominent it appears in the trailers. I also assumed the robot was named Hugo, which was stupid because the trailers clearly indicate that Hugo is the name of the main character, a human boy. Worse, since the trailers emphasized that it was 3D, I somehow had the impression that it was going to be a terrible CGI fantasy animation like Avatar or worse, The Polar Express (I even told Scott before the movie that I assumed the movie was going to be some sort of extended VESIcare commercial). While there was a lot of unbelievable CGI scenes -- especially the opening zoom which felt more like a video game introduction -- Hugo wasn't a total CGI/3D mess. In fact, it was almost a traditional story that had no reason for 3D.

The story was sadly sentimental (dead parents, orphan police, etc.). Worse, the movie was needlessly long (over two hours), painfully slow-paced, and full of cutesy gimmicks that didn't work like Sacha Baron Cohen's unfunny, inept mall cop character. Unfortunately, the most interesting aspect of the story were the depictions of Georges Méliès and his movies which one Wikipedia author says Hugo mostly accurately portrayed. I would have found the movie more interesting had it focused more on Méliès's real life.

The Iron Lady: C

2012-01-21T10:07:00.000-08:00

Mom and I dragged Scott to The Iron Lady last weekend. It has been quite a while since we've been to the ye olde cinemas. We've been watching more Netflix and Amazon at home (sorry tradition movie theater industry). We attempted to see Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy on New Year's weekend, but of course it was sold out at the Regal Fox tiny 'arthouse' multiplex in downtown. Considering this was The Iron Lady's local opening weekend, I figured we should buy our tickets online and arrive early to secure our seats. Much to Scott's annoyance though I failed to consider that we were going to Regal City Center in the 'Couv which rarely ever sells out. We sat outside the vacate theater for 30 minutes (By the way, a surprising filthy theater. Either Regal is cutting back on staff or The Iron Lady attracts a rough crowd.)
Considering how much Scott loves Julie & Julia and The Devil Wears Prada, I assumed he would want to see this Meryl Streep performance. He didn't care. The Streep factor wouldn't overcome his hesitation that this was a dull political movie about someone he didn't know of or care about. I, on the other hand, have been looking forward to this movie since I heard of Streep's casting.
Meryl Streep's performance did not disappoint. She thoroughly transformed herself into a short, shuffling, elderly woman. I haven't seen or heard Margaret Thatcher footage recently, but I do recall her public appearance a few years ago which Streeped seemed to have matched.
Unfortunately, the way The Iron Lady decided to tell Margaret Thatcher's life story was depressingly dull. I understand filmmakers' desire to find original and interesting ways to frame biopics. The problem is so often the framing is the weakest part of the movie and distracts from the subject's compelling life story. For example, did anyone really look forward to the whining, self-absorbed Julie parts of Julie & Julia?
The Iron Lady chose to frame Thatcher's life from the perspective of her confusingly shuffling around her home haunted by her dead husband (portrayed by the always entertaining Jim Broadbent). While the elderly scenes highlighted Streep, they took up too much of the story and, again, distracted from parts of Thatcher life that warrant attention. I also doubt any biopic subject would want to be portrayed as a faded figure reminiscing of their former glories in the middle of the night in their empty home. I understand the filmmaker's point of giving insight into Thatcher's alleged ambivalence toward her daughter and other women while ecstatically seeking her absent son's attention, but it seemed a long, dull way to get there.
Worse, I can't say I gained insight into Thatcher after watching this movie. It reduced her political life down to a hand full of moments. Northern Ireland, the Cold War, Reagan, etc., are barely mentioned at all. According to the movie, Thatcher was a sincere, but stubborn conservative ideologue who rescued the conservative party that exploited her gender and eventually betrayed her. While I wouldn't want to watch a fawning political depiction, I can't say this movie sincerely attempted to explain Thatcher's politics beyond her supposed bias against women and homemaking.

The Ides of March: D

2011-10-17T22:17:00.000-07:00

The Ides of March, originally uploaded by levi2411.

On Saturday, I ditched Scott and Sheena at The Thing and reluctantly saw The Ides of March instead. I would have preferred seeing Moneyball, but it started 90 minutes later than The Thing.

[***SPOILERS BELOW***]
Although I doubt anyone reading this will actually bother seeing this movie.

I usually wait a week or two after seeing a movie to allow the most memorable parts of a movie linger, but in this case I figure I should write out my thoughts as I can only vaguely recall the movie only two days later. This was such a dull political movie laden with bland stereotypes and predictable political cynicism, it seemed like a bad West Wing episode. Primary Colors, Wag The Dog, and The Manchurian Candidate all come to mind as movies with similar political campaign themes with more original and interesting stories.

Ryan Gosling stars as a young, superstar campaign staffer for George Clooney's Obama-like Democrat presidential primary candidate. Philip Seymour Hoffman and Paul Giamatti play opposing campaign managers that are completely jaded and interchangeable. The all-star cast's performances were great and kept a predictable story somewhat interesting. After the first half of the movie slowly set-ups the characters and setting for a political scandal to happen, finally a campaign intern affair similar to Bill Clinton or John Edwards is revealed. The story picks up the pace with a few predictable twists and political diatribes including Gosling's climatic confrontation that the one unpardonable rule is that presidents can't fuck the interns. Meh. It was a good line, but not worth building an entire movie on.

And the more I think about it, the more I suspect the writers did build the movie backwards from Gosling's one climatic scene. Why else would the rest of the movie's characters be so bland and one dimensional? To avoid actual political differences being the focus of the story, the movie is set within a party primary in which political differences are indistinguishable. And to avoid race and gender distractions, the main candidates and their staff are cast as white, hetero males. And to avoid the notion that the young woman intern could actually be a victim, the writers go out of their way to show her to be a flirt, unflinching in exercising her right to choose. Basically, the movie confirms the worst stereotypes that Democrats really are sexually amoral who just casually have affairs, hook-ups, and convenient abortions.

Contagion: B

2011-10-10T20:20:00.000-07:00

Contagion Movie Poster, originally uploaded by nxusco.

We saw Contagion last month. I liked the movie, but I wouldn't call it "entertaining" with as with a story. It's more similar to a bleak documentary about how bad a swine-flu epidemic could be. Soderbergh did try to keep the movie fast paced and with a bass-beat soundtrack (which Scott hated) that tried to animate scenes of what otherwise are folks in talking on cellphones, blogging, working in labs, and getting sick.

I was mainly interested in the movie after hearing a NPR interview with the author Laurie Garrett. She wanted to make a realistic movie that didn't have silly science like the Dustin Hoffman movie Outbreak. A ridiculous helicopter chase with the heroes saving the day with a monologue and magic monkey serum probably would have made Contagion a bit more entertaining.

Florence Henderson: Getting crabs was 'karma'

2011-09-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

I could have gone my whole life -- or at least this morning -- without hearing that "Mrs. Brady" got "critters". TMI

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Captain America: The First Avenger: B

2011-09-05T09:46:00.001-07:00

CAPTAIN AMERICA THE FIRST AVENGER, originally uploaded by ARMYRANGER1.

Well, I'm slipping behind on my little movie review. Ma, Scott, and I saw decided to see Captain America: The First Avenger a few weekends ago during a hot weekend (well, hot for Portland). Maybe I'm just not a comic book fan, but nothing of this movie stood out to me as compelling or different from all of the other comic book movies. Worse, the movie once again reminisces about World War II.

I will say Capt. 'merica was well-paced with no lulls and it even managed to tone-down the mindless patriotic flag waving. There was even a nearly sensible explanation for Captain America's silly uniform. However, it overall, stuck to the Marvel comics movie formula.

When we gave the ticket taker our tickets, he told us to make sure we waited until after the credits to leave the theater. The after the-credits-shtick is getting old. Instead of appreciating the hundreds of names slowly scrolling by, I think, "wow, with all these people, no wonder it seems like corporate mediocrity". Anyways, a trailer for next year's The Avengers -- the Marvel ensemble movie which somewhat explains why all of these comic book movies had to come-out to explain the characters' origins.

Cowboys & Aliens: C

2011-08-23T20:24:00.001-07:00

Cowboys & Aliens, originally uploaded by Daniel Norris.

Scott and I saw Cowboys & Aliens a few weeks ago. It was a good summer movie. It was well-paced and it was nice seeing Harrison Ford back in an action movie. The story was relatively straight forward. However, over the weeks, my impression of the movie has dimmed at bit.

I wanted to like this movie because it was one of the few original, non-sequel movies. Although it is based on a comic book like this summer's other movies (Green Latern, Captain America: The First Avenger, Thor, etc.), Cowboys & Aliens was a relatively unknown comic novel. The notion of mixing action genres sounds attractive. However, the movie's story seemed a bit too simple with too many cowboy and alien movie cliches tossed in.

Daniel Craig stars as the mysterious cowboy with an unknown past; however at times he seems more like super agent 007. Harrison Ford's old, crotchety cattleman reminded me of True Grit's Rooster Cogburn -- especially when it unsurprisingly revealed that he has a kind soul under the harsh exterior. More annoyingly, Cowboys & Aliens throws in sci-fi cliches such as an Alien-esque alien with mini-mouth for no apparent reason.

Overall, a good summer action movie, but probably not one that will be remembered as ground-breaking or original. I hope this movie is not considered for sequel -- unless they plan on mixing other genres: Cowboys & Pirates, Vampires & Aliens, Gladiators & French Aristocrats, etc.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2: B

2011-07-19T21:27:00.000-07:00

DH Part 2 Posters, originally uploaded by katherine ♡.

After returning from Seattle on Sunday, we saw Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2. Although I wasn't much of a Harry Potter fan, I did enjoy this movie. As it was the final Potter movie, Part 2 reminded me of a TV series grand finale in which favorite characters are killed, familiar settings are destroyed, and mysteries revealed in no holds barred final score-settling. Even knowing the fate of the three main characters beforehand, the movie still was able to maintain suspense and anticipation.

My main complaint is that because it was a grand finale of a eight-movie series, I still felt a little lost when names or prior events were mentioned. I had similar complaints with the Lord of the Rings.

Also, the story missed an opportunity by glossing-over Snape's revelation that Dumbledore had secret motivations for befriending Harry Potter. Maybe the book explains it better, but the movie doesn't how Potter so quickly reconciles Dumbledore's seemingly betrayal of his trust.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon: D

2011-07-02T21:11:00.000-07:00

Transformers 3 Poster, originally uploaded by Roger-the-Dodger.

Scott, ma, and I reluctantly saw Transformers: Dark of the Moon. It was a warm day and we couldn't agree on any outing, so we settled on a movie.

I'm really not a movie snob. I have nothing against big budget summer movies, but this was just too much...everything. Too much story with the gratuitous back story, boy-saves-babe. Too many cameos. Too many non-nonsensical CGI destruction porn. And worse, just way too long: over two-and-one-half hours.

But probably my biggest gripe is Buzz Aldrin's disgraceful appearance as himself discrediting the moon landing as a conspiracy theory (with a very creepy CGI President Kennedy). I was even more irked that Leonard Nimoy voiced a character that reverses his nerd-famous line from Star Trek II.

Like the prior Transformers movies, no amount of CGI, action, or celebrity appearances can make-up for lack of an interesting story, smart dialogue, or entertaining characters.

Super 8: B

2011-06-13T22:23:00.000-07:00

SUPER 8 POSTER, originally uploaded by JASON_CRYER.

On our way to the theater on Saturday, Mom reasonably asked what movie were we dragging her to. I was a little stumped how to quickly describe Super 8. Worse, I couldn't remember the title, Eight Millimeter, 8 Mile, eight something or other. I didn't want her to veto our choice by mentioning that it may have scary creature like Cloverfield, so I may have implied that the movie was about kids who find an alien like E.T. and the movie was made by Steven Spielberg.

During the movie, Mom expressed concern half-way through the movie saying she thought it was more like a horror movie. Afterwards, when I re-affirmed that Super 8 was like E.T., she remarked, "Yes, but E.T. didn't eat people." However, I think she enjoyed the movie.

Super 8 fully acknowledged that it was an homage to Spielberg's 1980s young-teens-go-on-adventure genre with a classic composition of fat boy, funny boy, and wimpy boy. And yet, this was a J.J. Abrams movie with a few flares, tragic character back story, Kelvin reference, etc.

My main criticism of the movie was that it was a bit too retro and pandering to Spielberg. Why set the movie in 1979 in nearly the same period as Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977), E.T. (1982), and The Goonies (1985)? Spielberg's kids movies were directed at kids in their time whereas Super 8 is directly at grown-ups who want to reminiscent about the kids movies they were raised on.

X-Men: First Class: C

2011-06-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

by rory_phillips, on Flickr

Scott, ma, and I saw X-Men: First Class yesterday. It was the first hot day of the year (80s f) and spending time in a theater seemed like a good option. Scott has been wanting see Thor, but for some reason that comic book movie just seems too 'out there'. Scott and I want to see The Hangover Part II, but I'm sure mom would not be enjoy that and we can probably wait for it to come out on DVD.

I enjoyed First Class more than 2009's X-Men Origins: Wolverine and 2006's X-Men: The Last Stand, but I can't say anything about it stands-out as terrific. The movie explains the origins of the franchise. Unfortunately, it doesn't overcome the challenges of all prequels as the story feels unnaturally forced. Not only does the story have to explain the origins of the Xavier Institute and the Professor X-Magneto rivalry, it's further squashed into the Cuban Missile Crisis. I've heard First Class described as a re-boot, but it seems to me have the same comic book feel and character of the prior X-men movies. First Class missed an opportunity to truly re-envision the franchise such as the gritty, realistic feel of the 2005 Batman or the unrestrained 2009 Star Trek reboot.

Bridesmaids: B

2011-05-23T08:32:00.000-07:00

Bridesmaids, originally uploaded by machu picchu.

Scott, ma, and I saw Bridesmaid the Saturday before last. Scott and I looked forward to seeing this comedy after seeing the hilarious trailer. I was concerned that it would be one of those comedies in which the best bits were in the trailer, but the movie was thoroughly funny. We were surprised that for a comedy, it was long -- just over two hours; however, it didn't seem long to me -- which is big praise since I think any movie should justify exceeding my 90-minute time limit.

I've heard the movie described as Judd Apatow's female buddy movie, but the movie was more about hitting life's bottom when it seems everyone else is peaking. There's nothing gender-specific about that.

Eurythmics - "Must Be Shopping For An Angel"

2011-05-22T17:50:00.000-07:00

With compliments to the Kroger corporate DJ, this song distracted us from our weekly shopping at the 82nd Ave Fred Meyer:

I'm pretty sure the chorus lyrics were, "Must be shopping for an angel. Must be shopping for an angel. Must be shopping for an angel...." over the supermarket loudspeakers.

2011 Special Election Endorsements

2011-05-18T10:08:00.000-07:00

05/19/2011 RESULTS UPDATE: The only big election surprise to me was that the Portland Public School's $548m levy, 26-121, narrowly failed by 1%, but the $308m levy, 26-122, passed handily by 16%. Considering the economy and the usual anti-tax rhetoric, I assumed voters would either be either all or nothing. However, some voters presumably studied the issues and decided teachers were more important than buildings and/or decided passing one levy was a good compromise.

	ME ↓	WILLAMETTE WEEK ↓	THE OREGONIAN ↓	PORTLAND MERCURY ↓
CANDIDATES
MULTNOMAH EDUCATIONAL SERVICE DISTRICT: "...An ESD acts like a co-op that delivers regional educational services. Among other things, it provides speech pathologists, special education teachers and school nurses to school districts. And, oh yeah, the ESD offers local kids Outdoor School..." (WWeek.com)
Dir., Pos. 7, Zone 3 SPELLMAN ELECTED 71% (15k)	SPELLMAN	SPELLMAN
	• "...Kay Bridges, a nice woman who owns a flower delivery service, has no grasp of the issues facing..." WWeek.com • "...We see no reason to replace Kevin Spellman, ...Spellman has a strong understanding of budgetary issues and policy..." WWeek.com
Dir., Pos. 6, At Large MONTGOMERY ELECTED 51% (39k)	MONTGOMERY	MONTGOMERY
	• "...'While the April 20, 2010, Regular Board meeting was in session, [incumbent] Director Delman chose to listen through earphones to radio commentary on a basketball game and, upon both private and public admonition from the Chair, continued while the meeting proceeded.'..." WWeek.com • "...We’ll go with Montgomery, a smart and highly qualified candidate who taught public policy at Portland State University and once served as a board member for the Northwest Regional ESD." WWeek.com
PORTLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT #1JT Apparently I live in PPS Zone 1, but my ballot includes zones 1, 2, 3, 7. Do I vote for all the zones and elections sorts it out somehow? (PPS Zones map - large PDF)
Dir. Zone 1 ADKINS RE-ELECTED 74% (46k)	ADKINS	ADKINS	ADKINS
	• "Adkins first ran in May 2007 on a platform of not closing schools. She won. Three years later, in October 2010, Adkins voted to close Marshall High...we don’t fault Adkins for realizing the district needs to consolidate resources..." WWeek.com • "...Adkins, a Yale graduate who works for a housing nonprofit, is a smart and tenacious board member who thinks strategically without missing the fine print..." OregonLive.com • "...Larry Lawson, a network security manager and a photographer. ...he lacks any record of improving schools. ...He doesn’t offer a compelling reason for unseating Adkins." WWeek.com • "...Glen Livingston, a self-described community activist, is also on the ballot. His inexperience makes Adkins a clear choice." WWeek.com
Dir. Zone 2 MORTON ELECTED 52% (33k)	MORTON	MORTON	MORTON
	• "Morton is the deputy director of the National Indian Child Welfare Association. As a tribal member, he has a solid record working on issues related to poverty and the achievement gap...." OregonLive.com • "Brister-Mashia is a regular volunteer at Jefferson High and brings a grounded perspective to issues of school quality and parent involvement. This race is a close call, but Morton's experience with boards and budgets give him the edge." OregonLive.com • "Sweeney has run for almost every office available in Portland. We have yet to find one that fits his skills." WWeek.com
Dir. Zone 3 REGAN RE-ELECTED 64% 40k	REGAN	REGAN	REGAN
	• "Incumbent Bobbie Regan is running for a third term and faces token opposition from two challengers: Martha Perez, who works in customer service, and Christine Nelson, an artist specializing in pet portraits. Neither has mounted a serious campaign..." OregonLive.com • "...Critics say Regan protects the interests of wealthier parents and students with programs like 'school choice.' That lets middle-class white parents who buy homes in gentrifying neighborhoods send their kids to schools in wealthier neighborhoods where the schools have more resources. We don’t always agree with votes she casts, but Regan is a knowledgeable board member who deserves another shot." WWeek.com
Dir. Zone 7 BELISLE ELECTED 96% 45k	BELISLE	BELISLE	BELISLE
	• Greg Belisle is the only candidate to file. • "...Belisle will have two young children in school at a time when most other board members have grown kids. Also, he's a member of the no-frills nonprofit world, where benefits are decidedly non-plush. His insights will be helpful as the district tries to improve classroom quality and keep labor costs aligned with what the community can pay." OregonLive.com
	ME ↓	WILLAMETTE WEEK ↓	THE OREGONIAN ↓	PORTLAND MERCURY ↓
MEASURES
PORTLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT
26-121 REJECTED? 50.7% 51k	YES	YES	NO	YES
	$548m construction bond to rebuild nine schools and update others. Bojack.org has a handy calculator that calculates tax increase for both PPS measures. For us, the measures will increase our annual property tax $377.33 -- although probably more as assessed value increase 3% each year. • "...Ballot Measure 5, passed in 1990, and Measure 50, passed in 1997, capped local property taxes. Before Measure 5, local property taxes supplied 2/3 of Portland’s education funding; now they supply only 1/4 and state income taxes supply 3/5. As the state equalized spending per student around the state, it left Portland Public Schools with less ability to fund the operation of their schools, and facilities maintenance was deferred..." (LWVPDX.org PDF) • NEARLY A HALF BILLION DOLLARS is a lot of money even for a large school district. This construction bond isn't comprehensive meaning more bond levies are sure to follow for the schools that are left out. • What I find the most troubling is that the levy's authors seemed to choose schools based on political considerations instead of need. However, it is understandable that a comprehensive billion-plus dollar levy would be unlikely even in self-taxing Portland. Also, the political considerations are inherent since school improvements depend on neighborhood, city, and state. • This is far from a perfectly-written levy; however, its faults don't outweigh the urgent need. Only complacency stopped critics from offering an alternative levy. • I can't say that I'm overjoyed to pay nearly $400 more in taxes each year. However, I also realize that without Measure 5 and 50 from the 1990s, my property assessment and taxes would have been much higher. I agree with WWeek's reasoning, "...If taxpayers are willing to dig deep for elephants, fireboats and salmon, shouldn’t they also be willing to provide the setting for a proper education for our kids?..."
26-122 PASSED 57% 57k	YES	YES	YES	YES
	Five-year $308m levy renewal to keep 400 teaching jobs under the current levy and add 200 teaching jobs. FAVOR: • Funds remain local - not diverted to state. OPPOSE: • Why should Portland taxpayers pay more than the rest of the state? • "Urban Renewal Districts in Portland utilize property taxes that could fund the operation of schools..." (LWVPDX.org PDF) • Besides the usual anti-tax extremists, it's hard to find anyone opposed to this measure. If anti-tax nihilists think 'the gummit' is so wastefully managed, why aren't they volunteering on the school boards or remodeling schools?

Paul: C

2011-03-30T08:10:00.000-07:00

Wow, I haven't updated this blog in a long time. I can't even remember the last movie we went to. I think the Oscar-nominated animated shorts last month was the last time we went to a movie theater.

I dragged Scott to see Paul the other weekend. I think this is Simon Pegg's and Nick Frost's third movie pairing. I wanted to like Paul as I really liked Shaun of the Dead, but I tried to restrain my expectations. Their prior movie, Hot Fuzz was cute, but not really comparable to Shaun.

It seems Paul was intended to be about middle-aged sci-fi geeks growing-up with the title character making witty Americana references. Unfortunately, Seth Rogen's voice as the alien just didn't work for me. Rogen's voice is just too distinctive that they might as well have filmed Seth Rogen with alien make-up. Paul's alien Paul reminded me of American Dad's alien Roger with the equally absurd Paul Lynde-like voice. The difference is that alien Roger is more entertaining.

Overall, it was a cute movie and it was nice seeing the Pegg and Frost team, but I would rate Paul better paced than Hot Fuzz but far short of Shaun.

True Grit: B

2011-01-23T09:55:00.001-08:00

True Grit, originally uploaded by Matt Needle.

A few weekends ago, Ma, Scott, and I saw True Grit. Good movie. There isn't much to say about it. It probably isn't the Coen Bros. best or most ground-breaking movie, but it was a well done. My favorite line: "Keep your seat, trash!".

The King's Speech: B

2010-12-30T07:53:00.001-08:00

THE KING'S SPEECH poster - Polish style, originally uploaded by Sam's Myth.

Scott (in protest), Sheena, Ma, and I saw The King's Speech last weekend after Christmas Day. This movie had all the typical attractions -- British accents, royalty, period setting, WWII, all-star cast -- for the white-haired art house film crowd (although, Judi Dench was somehow not cast). I've become a bit of an Anglophile after watching so much BBC America, so I'm probably rating this movie better than it deserves. It wasn't a ground-breaking movie, but it was enjoyable and the performances were good. The nearly sold-out showing we went even applauded the movie.

"friendliest cat ever" or "blood thirsty killer"?

2010-12-19T09:09:00.000-08:00

How can such a sweet kitty, be so proud of killing so many squirrels?

rant: deceptive packaging

2010-12-14T19:34:00.000-08:00

What the heck?!? Food prices are going up and corporations are screwing-over their customers, but really? Shame on you Ernest and Gallo Winery.

Winnebago Man: B

2010-12-11T10:10:00.000-08:00

Okay, I didn't actually leave the house to see Winnebago Man last weekend. I lazily watched it On Demand. Like DVDs, it feels like cheating watching movies at home - especially since it was recently at Cinema 21.

I've seen the Winnebago Man YouTube video, but I wouldn't consider it a top viral video. In the Michael-Moore style documentary, the filmmaker, Ben Steinbauer, is frank about his decision to make a documentary about this particular viral video. He acknowledges the problems the subjects of other viral videos have had such as the Star Wars kid. Profiling corporate video spokesman is probably less problematic than exploiting the possible mental issues of those secretly filmed. It was interesting to learn that the Winnebago Man video was viral years before YouTube in bootleg VHS tapes.

When Steinbauer does track down the "Winnebago Man" Jack Rebney, he finds a well-spoken, crotchety old hermit living in a remote cabin. The documentary becomes Steinbauer trying to reach-out and understand the reclusive Rebney. It is entertaining to watch the young-old conflict that isn't exploitive.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1: C

2010-11-21T22:29:00.000-08:00

We joined the masses and saw Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 on Friday night. I admit that I'm not a huge Harry Potter fan. I've never read the books and have only reluctantly seen the prior movies (out of sequence). I can see their appeal and have enjoyed some of the movies, but haven't really followed the overall character arcs or story. Besides a vaguely recollection that the headmaster wizard died, I don't remember any specifics of the prior Potter movie.

Deathly Hallows is definitely not a stand alone movie. It reminded me of a TV series grand finale the way it brought back characters from prior movies. For a seventh movie, it's unfair to consider a movie outside of its franchise. But even within the franchise, Deathly Hallows is one of the weaker Potter movies. It's only been two days since seeing it, but I can't recall anything that stands out as particularly interesting -- which is sad impression for a fantasy movie to have.

What I mainly recall was how the magic premise didn't make sense to me and sounded more like Star Trek techno-babble. The magic in this movie is much less awe-inspiring. For example, the magic wands became mere handguns leading to mundane action movie shootouts. I guess for the first part of the finale, they really didn't need to introduce the magic, but it seems this movie was far less magical and more about wrapping-up loose ends and building-up to the series' end.

train disaster move weekend

2010-11-14T20:05:00.000-08:00

I ended up watching two train disaster movies this weekend:

I was sick on the couch watching bad daytime weekend television (which is somehow worse than daytime weekday television) and ended-up watching the 1979 TV movie Disaster on the Coastliner. The steady, predictable pacing of a 1970s disaster movie was all I could handle with my head cold. Then today, since I felt better, we went to Unstoppable. Oddly enough, both movies feature former Capt. Kirks heroically saving the day.

Red: B

2010-11-07T08:41:00.001-08:00

RED, originally uploaded by dodobear1020.

Last weekend, Scott, ma, and I saw Red. We all left the theater with the same review, "That was cute." It was an enjoyable movie: simple story, good pace, with funny moments and a large all-star cast.

2010 Election Results

2010-11-03T08:01:00.000-07:00

ME
↓

WILLA-
METTE
WEEK
↓

OREGON-
IAN
↓

PTLD
MERC
↓

BASIC
RIGHTS OR
↓

NARAL
↓

SIERRA
CLUB
↓

OLCV
↓

CANDIDATES

US
SENATOR

WYDEN

WYDEN RE-ELECTED 56% 778k

HUFFMAN 39% 541k

US REP
OR 3RD

BLUMEN-
EAUR

BLUMENAUER RE-ELECTED 69% 180k

LOPEZ 24% 64k

OR
GOV

KITZ-
HABER

KITZHABER (RE)ELECTED 48% 672k

DUDLEY 48% 663k

OR
TREAS

WHEEL-
ER

WHEELER ELECTED 53% 713k

TELFER 41% 546k

OR ST
REP 42ND

BAILEY

BAILEY RE-ELECTED 84% 20k

METRO
PREZ

STACEY

HUGHES

STACEY

HUGHES LEADING 50% 187.3k

STACEY 50% 187.0k

EMSWCD
DIR 2

KUEHLER

KUEHLER ELECTED 52% 64k

SWEENEY 27% 33k

11%

ME
↓

WILLA-
METTE
WEEK
↓

OREGON-
IAN
↓

PTLD
MERC
↓

BASIC
RIGHTS OR
↓

NARAL
↓

SIERRA
CLUB
↓

OLCV
↓

STATE MEASURES

OR MEAS
70

YES

E.M.O.: YES

EXPANDS WAR VETERANS HOMEOWNERSHIP LOANS: Updates program to include recent vets.

PASSED YES 84% 1,118k

NO 15%

OR MEAS
71

YES

LWV: YES

REQUIRES LEGISLATURE TO MEET ANNUALLY: The legislature already meets annually, but has to pretend there is an emergency.

PASSED YES 67% 868k

NO 32% 415k

OR MEAS
72

YES

AUTHORIZES EXCEPTION TO $50K BORROWING LIMIT:

PASSED YES 58% 731k

NO 41% 510k

OR MEAS
73

E.M.O., L.W.V.: NO

INCREASES MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCE FOR REPEATED SEX CRIMES AND REPEATED DUI

PASSED YES 57% 761k

NO 43% 574k

OR MEAS
74

YES

ESTABLISHES MEDICAL MARIJUANA SUPPLY SYSTEM:

REJECTED NO 56% 755k

YES 43% 587k

OR MEAS
75

E.M.O.: NO

ALLOWS MULTNOMAH COUNTY CASINO

REJECTED NO 68% 908k

YES 31% 424k

OR MEAS
76

YES

E.M.O./LWV
YES

YES

CONTINUES TO DEDICATE 15% OF LOTTERY PROCEEDS TO PARKS, BEACHES, WILDLIFE HABITAT, AND WATERSHED PROTECTION:

PASSED YES 68% 922k

NO 31% 414k

ME
↓

WILLA-
METTE
WEEK
↓

OREGON-
IAN
↓

PTLD
MERC
↓

OTHERS
↓

LOCAL MEASURES

MULTCO
26-109

YES

BOJACK: NO

REPEAL TERM LIMITS

PASSED YES 52% 120k

NO 47% 111k

MULTCO
26-110

YES

BOJACK: NO

ALLOW COUNTY COMMISSION TO RUN FOR ANOTHER OFFICE

REJECTED NO 62% 144k

YES 37% 85k

MULTCO
26-111

YES

SALARY COMMISSION TO SET SHERIFF'S AND D.A.'S SALARIES:

PASSED YES 76% 166k

NO 23% 51k

MULTCO
26-112

YES

BOJACK: YES

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT FOR COMMISSIONERS

PASSED YES 83% 196k

NO 16%

MULTCO
26-113

YES

BOJACK: NO

LIMIT COUNTY ELECTIONS TO FILL VACANCY TO MAY AND NOVEMBER

PASSED YES 80% 187k

NO 19%

MULTCO
26-114

YES

TRIB: YES

BOJACK: NO

ALLOW FORMATION OF A LIBRARY DISTRICT:

PASSED YES 72% 171k

NO 27%

MULTCO
26-118

YES

TRIB: YES

BOJACK: NO

FIVE-YEAR 0.005% TAX FOR OREGON HISTORICAL SOCIETY:

PASSED YES 54% 136k

NO 45% 115k

PTLD
26-108

YES

E.M.O.: YES

BOJACK: NO

PUBLIC CAMPAIGN FINANCING

REJECTED NO 51% 82k

YES 49% 77k

PTLD
26-117

YES

BOJACK/TRIB: NO

0.009-0.014%* TAX FOR FIRE TRUCK & RADIO UPGRADES

PASSED??? YES 50% 79.8k

NO 50% 79.1k

TRIMET
26-119

YES

TRIB: YES

BOJACK: NO

21-YEAR 0.008%* TAX FOR SENIOR/DISABLED BUS UPGRADES

REJECTED NO 53% 241k

YES 47% 210k

2010 Election Endorsements

2010-10-20T11:42:00.000-07:00

ME
↓

WILLA-
METTE
WEEK
↓

OREGON-
IAN
↓

PTLD
MERC
↓

BASIC
RIGHTS OR
↓

NARAL
↓

SIERRA
CLUB
↓

OLCV
↓

CANDIDATES

US
SENATOR

WYDEN

US REP
OR 3RD

BLUMEN-
EAUR

OR
GOV

KITZ-
HABER

OR
TREAS

WHEEL-
ER

OR ST
REP 42ND

BAILEY

METRO
PREZ

STACEY

HUGHES

STACEY

EMSWCD
DIR 2

KUEHLER

EAST MULTNOMAH SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT DIRECTOR AT LARGE 2: Through my work, I know a little bit about this obscure agency; however, I was surprised to see four candidates on the ballot for this unpaid position. Only three candidates managed to get statements in the official voters' guide. And only two candidates responded to the League of Women Voters (PDF). Decidedly, Kuehler is the only candidate with endorsements and a related resumé.

ME
↓

WILLA-
METTE
WEEK
↓

OREGON-
IAN
↓

PTLD
MERC
↓

BASIC
RIGHTS OR
↓

NARAL
↓

SIERRA
CLUB
↓

OLCV
↓

STATE MEASURES

OR MEAS
70

YES

E.M.O.: YES

EXPANDS WAR VETERANS HOMEOWNERSHIP LOANS: Updates program to include recent vets.

OR MEAS
71

YES

LWV: YES

REQUIRES LEGISLATURE TO MEET ANNUALLY: The legislature already meets annually, but has to pretend there is an emergency.

OR MEAS
72

YES

AUTHORIZES EXCEPTION TO $50K BORROWING LIMIT: ~~I'm still pondering this one.~~ Although Republican legislators voted against this measure, no arguments against this measure were filed and I haven't found anyone recommending a no vote. Apparently this measure changes an 1859 law by allowing the state to obtain slightly lower interest rates by issuing general obligation bonds instead of certificates of participation. Recently, governments have defaulted on certificate of participation, therefore they are riskier and have higher interest rates. General obligation bonds are fully secured by the 'full faith and credit' of the government and are therefore less risky and have lower interest. It seems to make sense. Our state should use all available resources (i.e. taxes, general revenue, etc.) to repay its loans. (djcoregon.com)

OR MEAS
73

E.M.O., L.W.V.: NO

INCREASES MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCE FOR REPEATED SEX CRIMES AND REPEATED DUI: This seems like a good idea on the surface, but it's unclear what the unintended consequences will be. The state already spends more on prisons than universities. This measure would increase spending $29 MILLION, but doesn't specify where the funds will come from. There has to be a more effective and less costly alternative to warehousing criminals for longer periods.

OR MEAS
74

YES

ESTABLISHES MEDICAL MARIJUANA SUPPLY SYSTEM: The state should control marijuana distribution like it does liquor. This measure is a good start, but it unfortunately doesn't replace the current problematic grow-your-own or find-a-'dealer' system.

OR MEAS
75

E.M.O.: NO

ALLOWS MULTNOMAH COUNTY CASINO: There is no reason Multnomah County should be exempt from the non-tribal casino ban. Worse, the state government (not our county) receives a portion of revenue.

OR MEAS
76

YES

E.M.O./LWV
YES

YES

CONTINUES TO DEDICATE 15% OF LOTTERY PROCEEDS TO PARKS, BEACHES, WILDLIFE HABITAT, AND WATERSHED PROTECTION: Yes, it seems appropriate to me to lock-up funds from an essentially recreational activity for the benefit of the environment.

ME
↓

WILLA-
METTE
WEEK
↓

OREGON-
IAN
↓

PTLD
MERC
↓

OTHERS
↓

LOCAL MEASURES

MULTCO
26-109

YES

BOJACK: NO

REPEAL TERM LIMITS: Term limits don't work (see: state legislature). Also, county commissioner is such an unknown office that it is unlikely an incumbent would become politically unbeatable.

MULTCO
26-110

YES

BOJACK: NO

ALLOW COUNTY COMMISSION TO RUN FOR ANOTHER OFFICE: The county's critical problems are too important to have part-time commissioners campaigning for other offices.

MULTCO
26-111

YES

SALARY COMMISSION TO SET SHERIFF'S AND D.A.'S SALARIES: Shifts salary-setting from county board to a salary commission appointed by the county auditor.

MULTCO
26-112

YES

BOJACK: YES

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT FOR COMMISSIONERS: Fixes current loophole that allows commissioners to move out of county.

MULTCO
26-113

YES

BOJACK: NO

LIMIT COUNTY ELECTIONS TO FILL VACANCY TO MAY AND NOVEMBER: Fixes the current law that would potentially force the county to hold a costly ($400k) and rare March or September election (wweek.com).

MULTCO
26-114

YES

TRIB: YES

BOJACK: NO

ALLOW FORMATION OF A LIBRARY DISTRICT: Seems like a routine change. It makes sense for the library system to eventually become separate from the county.

MULTCO
26-118

YES

TRIB: YES

BOJACK: NO

FIVE-YEAR 0.005% TAX FOR OREGON HISTORICAL SOCIETY: ~~Certainly a worthy cause, but it is unfair that county residents should subsidize a state non-profit.~~ I changed my mind after reading the measure will provide FREE ADMISSION to Multnomah County residents. That seems like a reasonable offer (the "Oregon" Zoo and other locally-subsidized attractions should consider rewarding local residents).

PTLD
26-108

YES

E.M.O.: YES

BOJACK: NO

PUBLIC CAMPAIGN FINANCING: A nice idea, but the City's inept plan has turned into an embarrassing cash give-away. In five years and $1.7 MILLION, the plan has only produced one elected official (not counting the plan's brazen designer). I would support a public campaign financing plan that had more effective safeguards to the public's cash (i.e. limit funds, adhere to City's purchasing rules, etc.). Unbelievably, instead of fixing and fine-tuning the current experiment for the greater public financing movement, proponents instead defend the fraud and waste as well worth the enormous cost.

PTLD
26-117

YES

BOJACK/TRIB: NO

0.009-0.014%* TAX FOR FIRE TRUCK & RADIO UPGRADES: Certainly a worthy cause, but the City should have budgeted for these normal upgrades. This is merely a City scare tactic of putting vital items to a vote while quietly approving discretionary items like the new, unneeded fire yacht, consultants, etc., etc. *(wweek.com)

TRIMET
26-119

YES

TRIB: YES

BOJACK: NO

21-YEAR 0.008%* TAX FOR SENIOR/DISABLED BUS UPGRADES: I changed my mind and decided to vote against this tax. It's a worthy cause, but TriMet should be able to cover this cost in its normal budget. TriMet has put rail expansion before the needs of the disabled and elderly. *(lwvpdx.org)

Here are the endorsements I've found so far. I was a little surprised and disappointed that Just Out did not issue any endorsements due to lack of staffing. ~~Also, I can't find Portland Mercury's list either.~~

UPDATE: I'm surprised the alternative alternative-weekly, The Merc, opposes Measure 74 (marijuana dispensaries) supposedly because the quality safeguards and criminal background requirements may not be strict enough. Their fuzzy headed reasoning doesn't make sense. The current grow-your-own or get-a-'dealer' system certainly lacks any sufficient rules and regulations. Measure 74 would at least give patients an alternative to becoming pot farmers or finding a suspicious unpaid grower. I cynically suspect The Merc really fears this law will eventually lead to the demise of the current murky grow-your-own/black-market system which benefits recreational users' access.

Montreal (part II) and Quebec churches

2010-10-17T10:18:00.000-07:00

(More vacation pics. Fantastic photos are of Scott's Flickr collection. The shaking videos are from my iPhone (YouTube).)

Oratoire Saint-Joseph du Mont-Royal
(aka Saint Joseph's Oratory)

This was my first time seeing this amazing hill top basilica. It was a great place to explore. We quietly watched a service held in the 1917 Crypt Church at the base of the building. The adjacent 1948 Votive Chapel and tomb of Brother André contained candles and crutches of those healed by Brother André. Our occupational therapist friend observed that apparently all the people healed seemed to have used the same size crutch. Coincidentally, Brother André was canonized as Saint Brother André just after our trip.

The 1967 Basilica is huge. Apparently, the dome is the third largest in the world and the church is the largest in Canada. We were warned by a native Montrealer that while the view and the church's exterior were beautiful, the interior was not so much. In contrast to the exterior, the interior is modernist/minimalist 60s. The interior style conflicts with the exterior.

The view from the hill top at sunset was terrific. It was a dark and a little windy so we didn't walk through the garden or the small chapel built by Brother André.

One of the strangest sights was seeing pilgrims climb 99 steps on their knees to the basilica. I don't mean disrespect, but it's sort of like riding an escalator next to someone struggling to climb stairs. It felt like we were cheating merely walking up the steps. (Although as an out-of-shape fatty, the stairs were plenty hard.)

Université du Québec à Montréal's Judith-Jasmin Pavilion
(formerly Saint Jacques )

For a city that probably wouldn't miss losing a church building, it's great that this university kept this church's bell tower and ornate entrances.

Notre-Dame de Québec Cathedral
(aka Our Lady of Quebec City)

During our one full day in Quebec City, we made sure to visit the Notre-Dame de Québec Cathedral in Old Quebec City. Yet another beautiful basilica.

I was a surprised to see large flat screen monitors lining some of the columns like a sports bar (or a tacky megachurch). Tammam pointed out that they were probably to allow those seated in the side aisles to see around the columns.

Montreal churches (part I)

2010-10-12T19:19:00.000-07:00

[Photos by Scott (see blog)]

...This is the first time I was ever in a city where you couldn't throw a brick without breaking a church window...

- often cited Mark Twain In Montreal

Ironically, a native Montrealer we met proudly touted that Montreal was one of the most non-religious cities in North America. Scott and I politely countered that Portland also known for being non-religious. I haven't been able to find comparable statistics. In 2009 Oregon was rank #1 US state in residents with no religious affiliation. Another study somewhere mentioned that Quebec was ranked the worst in Canada for church attendance. It is surprising considering the importance of Catholicism in Quebec's history and the overwhelming number of beautiful church architecture.

As someone who was raised in a fundamentalist (and very anti-Catholic) church that met in a rented gymnasium, the huge ornate churches in Montreal and Quebec are ostentatious and impressive. After first seeing these churches in 2000, I really wanted to attend high church services; however, no church building in Portland can really compare.

Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal
(aka Notre-Dame Basilica)

Probably the most ornate sanctuary I've visited, it was the only church that charged a modest $5 tourist admission (no charge for pilgrims) -- which is well worth it.

Tammam mentioned that Celine Dion had a wedding and baptism in this church.

Scott was upset that the square in front of the church was under construction.

The "chapel" behind the sanctuary is just as amazing. Apparently it was quickly rebuilt after a 1978 fire.

Cathédrale Marie-Reine-du-Monde
(aka Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral)

In any other city, this cathedral would be amazing. However, its architectural style pales compared to the other Montreal churches. It's scaled-down version of St. Peter's in Rome reminds me of a Las Vegas tourist attraction. It doesn't help that the building is dwarfed by the surrounding office towers.

Christ Church Cathedral
(montrealcathedral.ca)

The only non-Catholic church we visited, Scott and I preferred this Anglican church's style and scale. It seemed much more approachable and friendly than the massive catholic churches. The rainbow flag in the sanctuary was a nice touch too.

Also, we learned that an underground mall was built under the cathedral which caused the cathedral to be nicknamed the Cathedral-on-stilts during construction.

Old Montréal

2010-10-12T06:38:00.000-07:00

On October 4, Scott and I figured out how to take the Metro from Tammam's apartment to Old Montréal. We used an handy iPhone app from ArchiGuides.com to take a walking tour of 25 buildings.

We tried to cross the Champ-de-Mars (a.k.a. lawn), but like many places, it was under construction as more of the 1717 fortifications were uncovered. As we recorded below, we admired the beautiful 1856 Old Courthouse and 1878 City Hall (now under construction), but horrified how the 1971 "Palace" of Justice office tower was dropped next to the Old Courthouse. Even the guide books admitted the tower was an architectural mistake.

We walked through an upscale tourist trap, Bonsecours Market, and met a very friendly gallery owner. Although we were very careful not to touch any of the paintings, the gallery owner had Scott touch one of the more colorful souvenir paintings.

Jardin botanique de Montréal

2010-10-10T17:34:00.000-07:00

We returned from our one-week visit with Tammam in Montreal and Quebec last night. The week seems like a blur. We are still sorting through our pictures and recalling our great trip.

Last Sunday was our first full day in Montreal. It was Scott's first time in Montreal and my second. Although I wanted to revisit some of the places I saw in 2000, I also wanted to see some new places like the Olympic Stadium area. So, I chose Jardin botanique de Montréal (a.k.a. Montreal Botanical Garden) as our first outing.

IMG_0029, originally uploaded by sweber4507.

IMG_9610, originally uploaded by sweber4507.

Like other former Olympic and world fair sites, I wrongly assumed the botanical garden was merely salvaged land re-purposed by the city after the 1976 Summer Olympics. However, I was surprised to learn that the botanical garden was started in 1931.

The gardens were beautiful. Even though Tammam and I are not gardening, we enjoyed the different gardens and arrangements. One hundred year-old bonsai plants in the Japanese garden were impressive, but the most eye-catching garden was the lantern display in the Chinese garden -- apparently an annual tradition.

For better or worse, it is nearly impossible to visit or photograph the Jardin botanique de Montréal without the alien Olympic Stadium tower.

The Last Exorcism: D

2010-09-12T21:00:00.000-07:00

Scott and Sheena dragged ma and me to The Last Exorcism. Well, I did seriously consider the George Clooney movie The American, but its professional and 'user' reviews were only as good or worse than Last Exorcism. I've complained before about this summer, but it is surprising that there is nothing worth seeing in theaters.

Anyways, The Last Exorcism is yet another twist on exorcism. Although I have to admit that I've never seen The Exorcist. Scott did drag me to 2005's The Exorcism of Emily Rose which similarly teased the audience with the question of whether a teen girl was supernaturally demon-possessed or merely exhibiting psychological problems. Also, like Emily Rose which re-framed the familiar exorcism story within a courtroom drama, Last Exorcism re-framed its exorcism story through the tired Blair Witch-style shaking documentary footage format. (I actually left the theater nauseous. Note to filmmakers: many reality shows do use Stedicams now.)

Although I'm not a fan of the horror movie genre, I did sympathize with some of the interesting themes the movie tried to incorporate. The Last Exorcism's set-up is that while a disillusioned preacher prepares to leave his flim flam exorcism business, a documentary film crew records his last exorcism of a girl in the stereotypical rural South (which apparently completely lacks cell phone coverage and African Americans). As someone who toyed with the extreme fringe of Christian faith-healing, I was interested in some of the main character's religious disillusionment. However, since the movie was only a fake documentary that was setting-up for a predictable scary movie storyline, there was no compelling reason to seriously ponder the pastor's dilemma.

More annoyingly, the horror movie had the usual foreshadowing making the ending completely predictable. For a movie barely 90 minutes long, it seemed to last much longer -- especially as we waited for the foreshadowed events to finally occur. The question of whether the demon possession was real is disappointingly answered in the last scene leaving little doubt. Thankfully there was no twist ending with unanswered questions or a set-up to a sequel.

Overall, the movie was okay for the horror/scare genre, but I think even horror fans will find nothing original in this tired re-hash. The movie just wasn't entertaining - no humor, no pleasantness, few exhilarating moments, and no sympathetic characters. The typical silent, reality show cameraman was the only relatable character (since we see the movie through his perspective), but, again, the filmmakers were too concerned with maintaining the fake documentary theme and held back his role. The demon-possessed character was well-played, but predictable with nothing new. The movie's biggest problem is that the filmmakers let the fake documentary format break the basic rules of entertainment -- give the audience something to enjoy or ponder, but the last scene pretty much destroys any mystery and undermines the story's premise. In the end, the movie was pointless for the characters and the audience.

(09/13/2010 revised repeatedly.)

cute: fat bee

2010-09-11T17:07:00.000-07:00

Scott and I just came home and were surprised to find this enormous bee practically breaking the flowers. Maybe it's just funny to us, but it is hilarious.

Backsplash DONE!

2010-09-07T07:56:00.000-07:00

trim
Originally uploaded by sweber4507

After much debate about an accent trim, we settled on a boring same-color trim tile. However, after seeing them up, we loved how it turned out. It's a nice detail that isn't distracting. Our main challenge was setting these in the mortar. They're concave on the back, so I am a little concerned that there isn't much for the mortar to hang on to. Time will tell.

cutter
Originally uploaded by sweber4507

My nemesis. It worked okay, but its accuracy isn't great. Next time (the stove back splash), we'll definitely buy or rent a tile saw -- especially after we watched a little British lade overcome her tile saw fear on a home improvement show.

bits&pieces
Originally uploaded by sweber4507

We're so glad that we did not pick an expensive tile for our first tiling attempt. I probably wasted nearly a half box on bad cuts -- of course, we reused as much as possible.

tiles
Originally uploaded by sweber4507

Stupid spacers. They never seemed to stay in where we specifically needed them. I'm not even sure we needed them since we prefer the least possible space and our wall tiles may even be self-spacing.

Kitchen Remodeling - Day 420: We finally installed the back splash behind the new counter top.

0. DESIGN: We spent months putting off the back splash project because we were indecisive. Scott had always talked about subway tiles, but there were so many distracting design options in the tile stores and design catalogs (i.e. ceramic tiles, stone tiles, glass tile, etc., etc.). We spent a long time going over the possibilities. There were many modern and stylish options, but we didn't want to do something trendy that would become dated and not match the house's age. Even though we plan on staying in the house a long time, we continue to be mindful that installing something too edgy/modern might turn-off potential buyers.

We started buying samples about a month ago such as the subway tile and a sheet of colored glass tiles. However, I was very apprehensive about installing a color that we would be stuck with for years since changing tile is not as easy as painting. Eventually, we went back to Scott's original idea of classic white subway tile with a simple white trim row.

1. WALL PREPARATION: When we finally bought the tile, we were delayed a week just to prepare the walls. Most of the wall was new wall board; however, the baseboards were missing and the window trim wasn't right. A chunk of the left baseboard was torn out during the wall demo and the entire right baseboard was missing. Also, a prior owner cut into half of the window trim to install the previous linoleum back splash. It was surprisingly simple to replace the missing baseboards and window trim.

I also found some handy extenders for the three electrical receptacle boxes. I understand that code requires that no gaps can be in the box, so the extenders were a good solution other than ripping open the wall and repositioning the boxes.

2. CUTTING AND SETTING TILE: Figuring how to cut the tile was the most difficult aspect of the project. Since subway tile is relatively small and thin, we figured that we did not need to rent or buy a tile saw. However, we did buy a RotoZip for the L-shape cut-outs. It took me a few days to figure out how to assemble the RotoZip and the best way of making cuts. Eventually I learned that I could make the straights cuts by pulling it toward myself. Although the RotoZip was handy, it is still a hand tool that isn't great for long, straight cuts.

The most frustrating part of tile cutting was trying to consistently cut tiles lengthwise at the same height with the snap cutter. We'll definitely consider using a tile saw for the remaining tile projects.

Aligning the tiles and spacers was tedious. We used the countertop as the reference for most of the first row of tiles, which worked well except above the sink. The area above the sink was tricky because we had to cut the most important first row of tiles, which came out a bit too low. It doesn't look awful and isn't worth tearing out and redoing, but it is noticeable if one studies the grout lines. It is bothersome to us because we know the defect is there, but I'll try to keep myself from pointing out the flaw to everyone. The top row under the wall cabinets was probably the worse because it borders the wallboard and plaster seam. Fortunately, it's hard to see unless you're sitting down or stick your head under the cabinets.

3. GROUTING We procrastinated much of Sunday before doing the grout. We were both apprehensive about grouting. So, instead of just buying the grout, we went on a shopping spree to three other stores. However, we eventually came home a got the grout. Surprisingly, it wasn't difficult at all. It was messing, but clean-up was easy. The white grout made a huge difference in hiding all the little defects. Had I known what a difference it would have made, I would have grouted much sooner.

In a perfect world, we would have removed the cabinets and plaster, installed new wall board, tiled, and reinstalled the cabinets. However, considering that we did all the work on the weekends and while still using the kitchen, it still came out great. We just need to seal the grout. For some reason, the guide says we need to spray water on the grout for three days before sealing.

Next Projects: Tiling the back splash on the stove wall and then kitchen flooring. We're leaning toward hex floor tile with grey grout, but that may require too much upkeep for a kitchen. We found some neat ideas online, but we haven't found a local supplier for black hex tile. We're also considering other options such checkerboard tile or Marmoleum, but hex tile seems to be the direction we're going since it is already in the bathroom.

finito, originally uploaded by sweber4507. We placed tiles working left to right figuring the wall area next to the left doorway would be the most visible. Our first day cutting and setting tile went very fast and we made it all the way to the sink. However, it took us two partial days to cut and set the tiles under the window to the wall. There were a lot of small frustrating cuts, the wall was very uneven as it transitioned from drywall to plaster, and all the tiles at the corner had to be custom sized as the adjoining wall is not straight.
GroutinProgress, originally uploaded by sweber4507. Wow, grout makes a huge difference. We briefly considered gray grout, but the white really helps hide all of my bad cuts and uneven tiles.
backsplashandhall, originally uploaded by sweber4507. Danaya will be very happy that we finally screwed the electrical receptacles in and put covers on. She scolded me for leaving the receptacles hanging out of the walls for so long. I got slightly over-sized receptacle covers to hide any bad cuts, but normal sized covers would have worked fine too.

sugar mountain

2010-08-19T12:27:00.000-07:00

My kind part-time coworker often brings in treats to the office break room to share (and solicit donations for his charity). Lately, he has been extremely generous as seen with this mountain of candy and doughnuts.

What's a bit odd though is that -- not counting him -- I'm the only other person who regularly works in the office, so I guess this is all intended for me. I do have some self control, but it is challenging to be here all day with sugar mountain just down the hall. Apparently he is trying to give my diabetes.

Inception: B

2010-08-16T07:36:00.002-07:00

Inception Chibis, originally uploaded by nicoleleepeterson.

To beat the heat, Scott, Ma, and I went out to a movie on Saturday afternoon. I'm not sure how theaters are staying in business as there have been very few movies this year that I wanted to see. The Regal theater we went to had only the manager working concessions and the multiplex seemed vacant -- on a weekend.

Anyways, we settled for Inception. My main reluctance to seeing Inception were the comparisons I heard of it with The Matrix. Fortunately, Inception doesn't take itself as seriously as Matrix, but it is as convoluted with endless revelations regarding the shared dream sci-fi tech premise.

Ellen Page's college student character is supposed to be the audience's newbie stand-in walking through the technology with wonder, awe, and questions. Although it's a bit surprising a college student in the field doesn't know the intricacies of the technology. What kind of irked me was that she basically plays the same character in her Cisco ads in which she again wanders into the technology with wonder, awe, and questions:

Overall, it was an entertaining movie. Yes, I will make my standard complaint that the movie was too long. It's probably an unfair standard to hold against filmmakers, but my knees have a limited time in theater seats, so a movie had better be compelling to keep my interest past 90 minutes. Unfortunately, the dream within a dream within a dream premise and psycho-babble foreshadowing made for a predictable ending that merely had to play through.

Gma's revenge from beyond the grave

2010-08-02T06:48:00.000-07:00

Years ago, one of the oddest comments my late grandmother made was that the city should cut down the giant trees lining the streets in historic Ladd's Addition. Her reason? They were a safety hazard because she slipped on some fall leaves while picking up my sister at Abernethy Elementary. Oh grandma...

Well, Gma somehow got her revenge. Although we saw the signs about the Dutch Elm disease, it was very surprising to see the stumps this weekend around Abernethy. It is very sad.

Save Our Elms is trying to save the neighborhood trees.

Predators: D

2010-07-11T18:17:00.000-07:00

Trailer

Ugh. Scott and Sheena dragged me kicking and screaming to Predators on Saturday. With so few movies worth seeing this summer, I didn't have a good counter-argument or a compromise movie to offer. Also, Scott insisted that I owed him for last weekend's documentary.

I'm really not a movie snob, but the reviews for this movie re-affirmed that this would be a pointless sequel. I vaguely remember not caring for the original 1987 Predator starring Schwarzenegger and this sequel seemed to have the same basic story. I really have no idea what the sequel's purpose was. The whole movie seemed very dated -- especially considering that first-shooter action games would be far more entertaining than a traditional movie. No fast-paced cinematography tricks or styling was used to update this 20-year-old sequel. Even the soundtrack, which Scott said was based on the original's themes, seemed dated and more like a bad TV movie. Worse, instead of just killing all of the annoying and unlikeable characters, the movie ended setting up for the unlikely sequel. (Geez, can you imagine creepy Gov. Schwarzenegger coming back?)

Happy Independence Day!

2010-07-04T09:35:00.000-07:00

I think I've been watching too much History Channel, but I really wanted to decorate the house for Independence Day. We went to Elmers Flag and Banner. I admit that I was a bit weary about putting up a flag. Will neighbors assume the worse -- that we're gun-toting, right-wing, Republican? The awkward trip to Elmers didn't settle my weariness. It's probably just me, but I couldn't help but feel like we walked into some secret Tea Party/militia man's basement bunker. That said, I was happy to find the same flag kit my grandmother had.

Joan Rivers – A Piece Of Work: C

2010-07-03T22:05:00.000-07:00

Wow. I can't recall when I last saw a movie in the theater (or when I blogged a review for that matter). Scott and I did see IMAX's Hubble 3D last weekend during our impromptu day trip to the Evergreen Air Museum. We have been watching more movies at home. I probably did miss blogging whatever the last movie I saw, but I haven't been going to the movies as much. There really hasn't been anything compelling us to go out (wow, that sounded middle-aged suburban).

Ma, Scott, Sheena and I saw Joan Rivers –A Piece Of Work at Cinema 21, which is another place I haven't been to in a long time (Good news! They finally accept plastic!). The previews for 9500 Liberty, Countdown to Zero, and Winnebago Man looked promising.

I mainly know Joan Rivers from the praise she regularly receives from Kathy Griffin, her 2009 Comedy Central roast, and her recent Fresh Air interview. Unfortunately, Fresh Air aired the most interesting moments and spoiled the documentary. But it was still interesting to actually see what was happening. That said, I probably would have never heard of the documentary if not for the radio program.

A Piece Of Work follows Rivers through a year and shows Rivers as being painfully self-conscious, professionally narcissistic about her brand/business/career, thankful for her successes, and very bitter about her losses. Rivers' non-stop work schedule at 75 is amazing and while she whines about the unfairness of the entertainment industry (and is a bit excessive at portraying herself as a victim), she seems to enjoy her craft.

Overall, an interesting documentary about a barrier-breaking woman, but not a ground breaking movie. It did drag on a bit toward the end. I hate to admit it, but some TV reality shows like My Life on the D List do a better job of making entertaining documentaries.

Kitchen cabinets: DONE!!!

2010-06-13T07:49:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we finally finished the kitchen cabinets (mostly). The cabinets and microwave/hood for the kitchen's east wall have been sitting the basement for more than six months, but we finally got back into the kitchen remodeling mood.

Originally uploaded by sweber4507	When we originally bought the house a year ago. The east wall had an old electric stove, tiny spice cupboard, and tiny base cabinet. The first thing we did was pull out the cupboard and cabinet (which is how we discovered everything in our 1929 house is held in with nails and can be easily pried loose with enough tugging).
	Although it's a bit tacky, we decided to install the new full-size fridge next to the stove and blocking part of the window. We had new electrical outlets installed, the furnace people installed a gas line, and we installed an old gas stove from craigslist. We also installed some metal racks above stove before we committed to cabinets.
	Installing cabinets on the east wall wasn't really a priority; however, IKEA had a sale if we bought two appliances. So, we added the microwave/hood and east wall cabinets to our order. And then left them in the basement for seven months.
	The electrician installed a dedicated circuit for the microwave/hood according to my detailed drawing.
	I did a terrible job patching the electrician's hole, but it doesn't matter 'cuz it will be hidden behind the cabinets, right?
	Last weekend, I got my first jigsaw and stupidly practiced my first cuts into our cabinet making a less than perfect hole for the hood vent. Even more stupid, I realize that we can't vent out the side of the kitchen because a stud in the exterior wall (and we have no interest in opening-up the wall to move studs). So, the jigsaw hole was for nothing -- although it will be helpful for when we do eventually decide to vent.
	Yesterday, we hung the cabinets and microwave. For some strange reason, IKEA assumes we would leave space above the cabinets to reach around and screw-in the top molding. Our cabinets are nearly to the top of the wall, so we're going to ponder how to attach the molding.
	Scott demonstrating that the cabinets were a terrible idea now that we will have to reach over the fridge to get to our precious cereals. More than the cabinets and microwave, Scott is excited about simply having a light over the stove.

The only left to do now are to get some knobs from IKEA, finish the molding .... and tile the backsplash, and tile the floor, and maybe some more lighting, and the hood vent, and....

2010 Primary: Results

2010-05-25T06:47:00.000-07:00

Because my blog isn't boring enough, I'll graph the results of the primary.

Oregon Turnout

386k Democrat votes

863k registered Democrats

327k Republican votes

656k registered Republicans

120k other votes

513k registered other

US Senator

89% Wyden 332k

41% Huffman 109k

OR Governor

64% Kitzhaber 241k

29% Bradbury 109k

39% Dudley 122k

31% Alley99k

OR Treasurer

64% Wheeler 215k

29% Metsger 114k

213k Telfer

OR Supt

50% Castillo 349k

49% Maurer 346k

OR Supreme Ct, Pos 4

98% Kistler 446k

OR Supreme Ct, Pos 5

71% Landau 399k

28% Arlow 156k

OR Measure 68

65% Yes 495k

No 265k

OR Measure 69

71% Yes 544k

US Rep. 3rd District

US Rep., 3rd Dist.

91% Blumenauer 73k

Sweeney 6k

98% Lopez 19k

METRO: 208k ballots (Clackamas 36k, Multnomah 106k, Clackamas 64k)

METRO President

36% Hughes 76k

34% Stacey 72k

27% Burkholder57k

Multnomah County: 139,784 ballots

MultCo County Chair

77% Cogen 81k

11% Darger 12k

10% Soderback 10k

MultCo County Sheriff(2011-)

78% Staton 89k

20% Ra'oof 23k

City of Portland

Clackamas (< 200) and Washington (< 200) county results omitted.

Ptld Comm. Pos. 2

79% Fish 77k

10% Nichols 9k

Ptld Comm. Pos. 3

55% Saltzman 55k

11% Volm 11k

8% Cornett 8k

2010 Primary: Endorsements

2010-05-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Here are my picks for the 2010 primary election and a comparison of the significant newspaper and PAC endorsements. Click for details on how I decided on each vote.

JUST
OUT

OTHER

US SENATOR
(OR DEM)

WYDEN

WYDEN

WYDEN?

WYDEN

US REP.
(OR-3RD DEM)

BLUMENAUER

BLUMENAUER

SIERRA:BLUMENAUER

OR GOV.
(DEM)

KITZHABER

KITZHABER

BRADBURY

KITZHABER

SIERRA,OLCV:
BRADBURY/KITZHABER

PTLDTRIB:KITZHABER

OR TREASURER
(DEM)

WHEELER

WHEELER

METSGER

OLCV,PTLDTRIB:WHEELER

OR REP.
(42ND DEM)

BAILEY

BAILEY

BRO,OLCV:BAILEY

OR SUPREME CT.
(POS. 5)

LANDAU

LANDAU

OR SUPT.

MAURER

MAURER

CASTILLO

BRO:CASTILLO

OR MEASURE 68

YES

YES

LWV,OLCV: YES

BOJACK: NO

OR MEASURE 69

YES

YES

LWV,OLCV:YES

BOJACK: NO

MULTCO CHAIR

COGEN

COGEN

SIERRA,OLCV:COGEN

MULTCO AUDITOR

MARCH

MULTCO SHERIFF

STATON

STATON

PTLD COMM #2

FISH

FISH

PTLDTRIB,OLCV:FISH

PTLD COMM #3

SALTZMAN

SALTZMAN

CORNETT

SALTZMAN

CANNOT
BACK
ANYONE

CORNETT

GARREN

SALTZMAN

VOLM

OLCV,PTLDTRIB:SALTZMAN

BOJACK:VOLM

PTLD AUDITOR

GRIFFIN-VALADE

METRO PREZ

STACEY

HUGHES

STACEY

HUGHES

STACEY

BURKHOLDER

STACEY

BOJACK,PTLDTRIB:HUGHES

SIERRA,OLCV:STACEY

METRO AUDITOR

FLYNN

2010 Primary: OR Measure 69

2010-05-07T00:01:00.001-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Oregon State Measure 69

"...Referred to the Electorate of Oregon by the Legislative Assembly of the 2010 February Special Session..." OregonVotes.org

Amends Constitution: Continues and modernizes authority for lowest cost borrowing for community colleges and public universities.

The Way It Is Now
State bonds cannot be used to remodel campus buildings or buy buildings from someone else. Colleges and universities cannot use these bonds to pay for buildings that are used for both teaching classes and community service.

What Measure 69 Would Do
Measure 69 would let community colleges and public universities remodel campus buildings using state bonds. It would also let them buy buildings from someone else and build buildings that are used both for teaching and community service.

LWVOR.org

[X] Yes

"'Yes' vote continues and modernizes state authority to issue lowest cost bonds to finance projects for the benefit of community colleges and public universities." OregonVotes.org
"People FOR This Say: The rules we have now about the use of state bonds for community colleges and public universities need to be brought up to date." LWVOR.org

[_] No

"'No' vote rejects modernization of authority to issue lowest cost bonds to finance projects for the benefit of community colleges and public universities." OregonVotes.org
"No arguments in opposition to this measure were filed with the Secretary of State." OregonVotes.org
"People AGAINST This Say: Oregon’s Constitution should not be changed everytime someone wants to do something with state bonds." LWVOR.org
"...We think that any change that encourages the state to drag the taxpayers further into hock is a bad change. This is a time to pay off debt, not rack up more of it. And so we're voting no on both measures..." BoJack.org

The "modernizes" language irks me as heavy-handed. I doubt universities are currently bartering chickens and beads. However, I can't find anyone opposing this change, so I'll support it too.

2010 Primary: OR Measure 68

2010-05-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Oregon State Measure 68

Referred to the Electorate of Oregon by the Legislative Assembly of the 2009 Regular Session

Revises Constitution: Allows state to issue bonds to match voter approved school district bonds for school capital costs.

The Way It Is Now
The State of Oregon cannot help local school districts pay for new school buildings or major repairs to existing buildings.

What Measure 68 Would Do Measure 68 would allow the State to sell bonds, which is like borrowing money, to help local school districts pay for new construction and repairs for schools. The state would give some of this bond money to match the funds that local school districts receive through local bonds approved by local voters. The State would repay the state bonds from a special school fund by using some lottery money.

LWVOR.org

[X] Yes

"'Yes' vote allows state to issue bonds to match voter approved school district bonds for school capital costs. Dedicates lottery funds for matching funds and repayment." OregonVotes.org
"People FOR This Say: We need to repair existing schools, and sometimes need to build new schools. Measure 68 would make it less expensive for local school districts to pay for this because the state would provide matching money." LWVOR.org

[_] No

"'No' vote retains current law prohibiting state and restricting local districts from issuing bonds to pay for school capital costs, including acquisition, construction, repair and improvement." OregonVotes.org
"No arguments in opposition to this measure were filed with the Secretary of State." OregonVotes.org
"People AGAINST This Say: We don’t know all the information needed for starting a new bond match program and the effects it will have on local school districts." LWVOR.org
"...We think that any change that encourages the state to drag the taxpayers further into hock is a bad change. This is a time to pay off debt, not rack up more of it. And so we're voting no on both measures..." BoJack.org

This seems like a relatively minor change to the bizarre way Oregon funds public education.

2010 Primary: Portland Commissioner 3

2010-05-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Nonpartisan
City of Portland Commissioner Position No. 3 Four-year term, $102k salary
LWVPDX.org (PDF)

[_] Rudy Soto	Ugh. Campaign website unfinished: "Come back SOON and check out the NEW SITE" RudySoto2010.com Yikes: Did not respond to League of Women Voters timely. LWVPDX.org (PDF)
[X] Dan Saltzman ELECTED INCUMBENT (1998-)	Good: "Precinct Reconfiguration: Dan cut management and overhead to address the city’s budget cuts..." DanSaltzman.com Made tough decision "...Dan secured funding for a program that assists chronic offenders in finding treatment and housing, helping break the cycle of criminal activity that fund their addictions saving taxpayers millions..." DanSaltzman.com Excellent: "...Dan recouped millions of dollars from telecommunication companies that were not paying their fair share to the city..." DanSaltzman.com Good: "...Payday Lenders: Dan wrote the city ordinance cracking down on predatory lenders..." DanSaltzman.com Excellent: "...Dan led the charge to reform the Fire Police Disability & Retirement system, preventing a financial catastrophe and instituting independently audited system..." DanSaltzman.com; "..in the face of runaway costs and outright abuse, Saltzman pushed reform of Portland’s Fire and Police Disability and Retirement system. That didn’t earn him many union friends but should earn him gratitude from taxpayers." WWeek.com Good: "Major League Soccer: Dan ensured the protection of taxpayers on the stadium deal by requiring that no urban renewal dollars be used..."DanSaltzman.com Good: "...Dan created and renewed the Portland Children’s Levy.." DanSaltzman.com A bit tired to campaign on. Good: "...Reexamine force policies and the use of lethal and non-lethal tools. More focus on scenario based training and real world skills to deescalate situations. Union contract should include: drug testing, annual performance reviews, better ability for discipline that is imposed to be upheld by arbitrations. I support current proposed changes to IPR system" LWVPDX.org; "...In agreeing to oversee the police, Saltzman shouldered a thankless job the mayor shrank from performing. Gumption? Nerve? Leadership? Saltzman fits the bill..." OregonLive.com Good: "Currently enforcement is focused when camps block pathways or when health and safety issues are presented. I support this level of enforcement, but more attention needs to be put into preventing those from becoming homeless in the first place, and helping those who currently are. Unfortunately, too many of our homeless are either mentally ill or former/current foster children. I support innovative programs which find foster kids permanent loving homes and families." LWVPDX.org Good: "...in 2000 he supported a successful charter amendment to end civil-service protection for bureau chiefs, making it easier to fire incompetent directors...." WWeek.com Good: "...Saltzman remains an independent voice on the council. More than anyone else in City Hall, he offers much-needed balance to Commissioner Randy Leonard. And while some see in Saltzman a lack of charisma, we see a politician who doesn’t need constant coddling." WWeek.com; "...Saltzman -- in a City Hall crippled by the mayor's woes -- is a consistently courageous voice and the true center of gravity on this council. " OregonLive.com
[_] Martha Perez	Yikes: No statement in the official voters' guide. MultCo.us Interesting answer regarding police: "...Provide mandatory mental health/steroid testing of personnel" LWVPDX.org LOL! Huh? The other candidates recommend drug testing, but I guess steroid testing is good too. Good: "...Police identify those with criminal and drug history and are moving them into treatment. This needs to be continued. Homeless families and individuals are job and housing placements (sic) but the waiting list is long and must be expanded. The challenge is with those who refuse help and perhaps returning them to where they grew up with resources and contacts might help them. Enough study, time for action." Not sure police really move homeless into treatment. Deporting homeless is controversial, but smaller towns do buy one-way bus tickets to Portland. Interesting: "I would make all city employees...decide between a parking space or a bus pass. ...I would earmark funding for more air testing as Federal mandated. I would encourage Tri-Met to consider looking for corporate sponsors for assistance with marginalized communities.." Well, at least her answers regarding climate change are doable. TriMet is already corporately funded. Good: Only candidate to take public transit to WW interview. WWeek.com
[_] Spencer Burton	Good: "...tell the federal government that we are not going to put in one hundred million dollars to build a filtration system that we don’t need...." SpencerBurtonForPortland.com Development killer: "..."Portland Feed-in Tariff" for renewable energy production and a requirement that new buildings have solar panels on their roof tops..." SpencerBurtonForPortland.com Unlikely: "...have the Portland Light Rail Network, including the Vancouver, Powell Boulevard and Tigard-Sherwood Lines fully built by 2020..." SpencerBurtonForPortland.com Unlikely: "...build the nation's first electric vehicle network..." SpencerBurtonForPortland.com Unclear implementation: "...have farmers markets in every neighborhood..."; "...have neighborhood based cultural centers where artists, craftsmen, musicians, actors and freemen and women can express themselves and earn a living." "Freemen"? Huh? "...pension funds should be invested in local green businesses..." Yikes: Did not respond to League of Women Voters timely. LWVPDX.org (PDF)
[_] Mary Volm	Excellent: "...Over the years, the City's elected officials have talked about the importance of maintenance, but have decided instead to invest scarce city funds in new enterprises. The City should be heard on the vital issues that affect our livability, but we must take care of our responsibilities first..." MaryVolmForPortland.com "...the Portland Development Commission and the private sector must work together to identify new opportunities to attract and expand business, as well as keep existing businesses ...Currently, all City rules and regulations are applied the same, regardless of the type of business. Common sense must be applied to make it affordable for small businesses to stay open in Portland." MaryVolmForPortland.com Good: "...improve communications between City Hall bureau and union. Ensure the budget is earmarked for training and a timeline of training goals at all levels is created, implemented, and post-process review performed..." LWVPDX.org Good: "...A former city employee of 20 years who most recently was involved in the first effort to recall Adams, Volm has experience and passion for the job. ...we also think she’s unprepared to manage complex bureaucracies..." WWeek.com Huh, WWeek? Who else but a 20-year city employee would be prepared to manage city bureaus. Good: "...She seems an edgy person, and her personal affiliation with the zany Adams recall guy hasn't gained her any mainstream cred. But she's the only one in her race expressing a lick of common sense about the dangerous direction in which the city is headed..." BoJack.org
[_] Edward (Ed) Garren	Okay: Campaign website/blog features an overwhelming collection of ideas: Transparency and Accountability in Government, "bring green technology to Portland", Working Parents & Schools, Sustainability, etc. EdForPDX.com Unlikely: "...Union contracts should require more community involvement (volunteering), as well as drug and alcohol testing, and specific policy to eliminate 'the code of silence' among officers..." LWVPDX.org (PDF) Ugh. Strange answer regarding homelessness: "...There appears to be an obsession with 'fitting in' rather than with celebrating diversity and encouraging people to honestly share our differences. We also do not talk enough about our historic racial and social differences (racism & homophobia)..." LWVPDX.org (PDF) Meh: works seismic concerns into question about climate plan:"...We need to create ways to specifically encourage (or require) energy (and seismic) upgrades to our buildings and homes to reduce energy use by at least 50%, and assure that when our big quake comes our homes and buildings will survive..." "Require" upgrades???LWVPDX.org (PDF)
[_] Jesse Cornett	Good: "...opposes using taxpayer money for a soccer stadium..." Voters' Guide Meh. Too little, too late: A Plan For Jobs JesseCornett.com Meh. Police plan with some good ideals, but unclear execution. JesseCornett.com Good: Opposes current Vancouver SUV bridge plan JesseCornett.com Good, but obvious:: "...From day shelters, treatment programs, and employment counseling, there needs to be more of a concerted effort to reduce homelessness in Portland." LWVPDX.org (PDF) Interesting: "...Cornett raised 1,000 donations of $5...and thereby qualified for $150,000 from the city's taxpayer-financed campaign funds..." OregonLive.com Ugh. "...Jesse Cornett is the next Erik Sten, all the way down to the "clean money" machine. You can almost smell the dopey ideas in his pocket..." BoJack.org
[_] Michael J Courtney	Ugh. Glenn Beck-like free association rant: "...Bureaucrats and Union executives are rounding up the troops under the Socialist banner...we invest vast sums in our illegal immigrant population. Nearly 18% of our population doesn’t speak English and about 12% of our school kids don’t either...we have been #1 in unemployment over the last 15 years.); Hunger (Nationally #2); Worst schools (#3 in the Nation of the most failing schools...We lead in the culture wares [sic] and class warfare...lead the way in failed transit and in running[sic "ruining"?] our own business..." MichaelCourtneyGroup.com Yikes: Did not respond to League of Women Voters timely. LWVPDX.org (PDF)
[_] Jason Renaud	Yikes: No statement in the official voters' guide. MultCo.us Yikes: Declined to respond to League of Women Voters. LWVPDX.org (PDF)

Ugh. I put off working through this ridiculous list of candidates. It seems whenever there is a hint that a spot on the city commission is open or vulnerable, anyone with a slight political dream runs for the office. Understandably, city commissioner is an appealing position -- $100+k salary, control of some city assets, and access to taxpayer funds rather than dealing with the poor/sick/criminal as a lowly county commissioner ($88k salary), fixing the state's budget as a part-time legislator ($21k salary), or doing time in an unpaid elected position like school board, etc. So, I can't really blame any wannabe politician dreaming about becoming a city commissioner, but it takes some hubris to run for this office first without considering a more attainable public office.

I previously voted for Saltzman and didn't really have strong negative or positive feelings about his long tenure on the council. I was concerned about his role as police commissioner during the bureau's on-going controversies, but he seems to be trying. The latest alleged scandal involving Saltzman's girlfriend receiving a city grant does suggest maybe he is getting too comfortable in the office (but, really, this is the best dirt after 12 years in office?). Willamette Week and The Oregonian make convincing arguments that Saltzman has been burdened with fixing problem bureaus and deserves to be re-elected. I agree.

I spent two days reading these about these other kooky campaigns, Mary Volm is the only candidate I seriously considered voting to replace Saltzman. A run-off between her and Saltzman could be interesting. considering her public support of the Adams recall, I hope she spends more time either running against Adams or recruiting someone to run against Adams in 2012.

2010 Primary: Portland Commissioner 2

2010-05-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Nonpartisan
City of Portland Commissioner Position No. 2
Four-year term, $102k salary LWVPDX.org (PDF)

[_] Jason Barbour	Yikes: No statement in official voters' guide. MultCo.us Ugh: Homemade campaign website, www.electjasonbarbour.com, a bit glitchy. Um, okay?: "...I'm running because I can..." ElectJasonBarbour.com Not quite: I'm still calling 911.: "We’ve had numerous recent high-profile incidents that reduced citizen confidence and trust close to zero..." LWVPDX.org (PDF) Ugh: "...Jason Barbour did not attend our scheduled interview and gives no indication of mounting a serious run..." WWeek.com In a bizarre rant, Barbour disputes interview was scheduled. ElectJasonBarbour.com
[_] Walt Nichols	Interesting: (too) pragmatic solution regarding homelessness: "We need to add more shelter space, We should look at adding to dignity village...we should change the law for folks that have RV and motor homes parked as per the law at home...." LWVPDX.org (PDF) Meh: "...Nichols has a track record of community involvement in his Southeast Portland neighborhood, but suffers from a first-time candidate’s inability to point us to specific differences with the incumbent..." WWeek.com Good, but naive: "...Nichols...says he doesn’t plan to seek public financing because he considers it a drain on public coffers..." WWeek.com
[_] (TOY) Timothy O Youker	Yikes: No statement in official voters' guide. MultCo.us Yikes: Did not respond timely to the League of Women Voters. LWVPDX.org (PDF) Ouch: "a professional clown who says he was once arrested for not paying child support" WWeek.com
[X] Nick Fish ELECTED INCUMBENT (2008-)	Meh: Campaign website lists bio and endorsements, but no actual plans for what he intends to do. NickFishForPortland.com Good: Seemingly knowledgeable answer about the controversial police bureau: "Reexamine ... the use of lethal and non-lethal tools. More focus on scenario based training and real world skills to deescalate situations. Union contract should include: drug testing...better ability for discipline that is imposed to be upheld by arbitrations. I support current proposed changes to IPR system and believe they can be strengthened by more inclusion of citizens on the review panels." LWVPDX.org (PDF) Huh, Portland cops are not drug tested???? Good answer regarding our homeless problem: "Currently enforcement is focused when camps block pathways or when health and safety issues are presented. I support this level of enforcement ... too many of our homeless are either mentally ill or former/current foster children. I support innovative programs which find foster kids permanent loving homes and families." LWVPDX.org (PDF) Good: "Fish’s rookie term has been, in sum, a good one. He’s consolidated aspects of the city’s work on housing, maximizing efficiency when demand is up and tax revenues are down. ...he showed some steel in his willingness to be in the minority on controversial votes, helping to protect taxpayer money by improving the deal to redevelop PGE Park for Major League Soccer..." WWeek.com Meh: "...Fish...is still a fledgling commissioner and has yet to chart a bold trajectory. But he has been a calm, analytical influence in countering the volatility at City Hall. At the very least, he rates an 'incomplete' and a chance to make his mark on housing and homelessness..." OregonLive.com

I voted for Nick Fish two years ago. I'm disappointed Fish hasn't been more outspoken regarding regarding some of the bigger issues such as the mayor's scandal, the Vancouver SUV bridge, but I can understand that he is playing it safe.

As for Fish's challengers, they are hard to take seriously. I'm support 'average' citizens stepping-up and throwing their hat in the ring, but it would be nice if these guys took themselves seriously. Nichols seems the one challenger with a bit of credible experience, but his campaign website lacks even a reason why he is running. Why waste voters' time if you're not going to at least campaign and differentiate yourself from the incumbent?

2010 Primary: OR Superintendent

2010-05-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Nonpartisan
Superintendent of Public Instruction
Four-year term, $72k salary LWVOR.org

[_] Susan Castillo
ELECTED 2-TERM INCUMBENT (2002-)

Top 3 things I want to do if I win. LWVOR.org
- Vague/Obvious: "...continue to work to improve student performance through clear, high expectations."
- Good: "increase access to Head Start, Early Head Start and full day kindergarten."
- Unlikely: "advocate for adequate, stable funding so our schools don’t suffer when the economy is bad."
Interesting: "...The good news is that we know which students are at risk of dropping out and Oregon’s high school dropout rate is at an all-time low..." LWVOR.org
Yikes: "In 2007...Castillo almost cost Oregonians millions after lawmakers discovered she’d mistakenly told local school districts they could charge tuition for full-day kindergarten. That was illegal actually...To fix her mistake, the Legislature passed emergency legislation, retroactively rendering her actions legal." WWeek.com
Yikes: "...a Marion County Circuit Court ordered Castillo’s education department to pay $3.5 million to an online testing company the department had accused of breach of contract. ODE is appealing that decision. But if that effort fails, Castillo will have to lean on the Legislature for another major fix..." WWeek.com
Unfortunate: "In 2008, one of Castillo’s employees embezzled almost $1 million in taxpayer funds from the department. Although Castillo says the department has recovered most of the money and put in place new accounting protections, we see a pattern here." WWeek.com
Ouch: "...Castillo failed to put Oregon in the running for millions from the federal education grant known as Race to the Top. (Oregon’s application was 35th out of 41 states.) Oh, we forgot—she did help the teachers union in its efforts to curb the growth of online charter schools." WWeek.com
Ugh: "...Castillo hesitates to tread outside boundaries set by the Oregon Education Association, one of her key backers. She lacks a strong agenda..." OregonLive.com
Ouch. Isn't this her job?: "...Castillo too often has been on the sidelines of big issues. She does not command wide respect at the Oregon Capitol....She had to be pushed...to ask for a state audit of the financially troubled Willamette Education Service District." StatesmanJournal.com
Yikes: "...we continue to be confounded that Castillo appointed a non-educator to the department's No. 2 position...despite her own lack of a background in education." StatesmanJournal.com

[X] Ron Maurer

Top 3 things I want to do if I win. LWVOR.org
- Obvious: "Have more students graduate high school."
- Good: "Prepare students for career jobs"
- Good: "Prepare students to go to college."
Interesting: "...We need to reconnect our schools with vocational and technical career paths that provide a living wage. When the baby boomers retire, Oregon will face a significant skilled workforce shortage..." LWVOR.org
Interesting: "...The Department should strive to reduce the administrative burden placed on schools in order to improve quality. We must reduce paperwork for teachers so they can focus more time on their students..." LWVOR.org
YIKES: "...Maurer’s view that teachers with concealed handgun permits should be allowed to pack heat in homeroom. Maurer also says the content of sex education should be community-driven, rather than a state matter. ...he’s torn between faith and science. 'I am not a supporter of creationism,' he says. 'I am not a supporter of evolution.'..." LWVOR.org
Good: "...Maurer freely admits that he is not the most qualified person in Oregon to serve as schools chief. He says he's running out of frustration that no one else would challenge the status quo. He deserves credit for doing so. In fact, if his vision and agenda were clearer, this newspaper would have endorsed him..." OregonLive.com
Great: "...Maurer has an education background, including a doctorate in the field...As a state representative from Grants Pass, and former school board member, he may be closer to grassroots educational concerns that Castillo....He understands the problems created when local districts get inconsistent answers or are delayed in receiving information from the Education Department." StatesmanJournal.com

Well in this case, there is reason to vote out the incumbent. In what has to be a thankless and impossible job, Castillo has made several headline-grabbing blunders. It would be irresponsible for voters to reward her with a third term and hope for better results.

I don't believe in casting protest votes for unqualified candidates. Although, for some reason there are concerns about Maurer's qualifications (education doctorate, former school board chair, state rep.), he seems to be as or more qualified than Castillo (a former TV reporter and state senator). I'm hesitant about electing a Republican with, apparently, the usual biases against sex education and science, but the office is technically nonpartisan. Fortunately, he doesn't seem to be rallying the right wing base.

In nearly every national, state, and local political campaign, education is touted as a top priority, and yet Oregonians have left the top education job to a little-known elected position that offers no incentive to attract an effective executive (really, $72k salary???). It should be an appointed position.

2010 Primary: OR Judiciary

2010-05-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Nonpartisan
Judiciary

Oregon Judge of the Supreme Court Position 5 Six-year term, $122k salary LWVOR.org
[X] Jack L Landau	Great!: "...Landau has ruled on just about every issue that matters in this state... he’s not afraid to call bullshit on his fellow judges. He’s been critical of the current Supreme Court for ruling on original intent—the idea we should interpret the state constitution based on what we believe the framers were thinking when they wrote it 150 years ago (nothing like those “storied times” when blacks were excluded from residency). And he chastised the court for its slow pace in turning around cases...." WWeek.com Wow: "Jack L. Landau will go down in Oregon constitutional history as a Court of Appeals judge who pushed the state closer to equal rights for gays and lesbians..." "...in Tanner v. OHSU, he wrote the opinion for the court, which found that employers cannot discriminate against gay and lesbian couples when providing health benefits. This 1998 ruling was revolutionary at the time and it electrified the left..." OregonLive.com
[_] Allan J Arlow	Top 3 things I want to do if I win. LWVOR.org Good: "Make justice easier and more understandable for everyone" Good: "Help people believe that courts will listen to them respectfully" Good: "Write decisions that are clear and easily understood" Interesting: "Any flat fee for government services disproportionately impacts lower income Oregonians. Court and filing fees are set by the legislature and not the courts. ...judges can give exemptions in some cases. ...Under the ethics rules, I cannot express an opinion on any matter which might come before me, including this question" LWVOR.org "...The Judges need to have a thorough understanding of many of society’s complexities and simultaneously give deference to the language and intentions of the authors of the Oregon Constitution and of elected representatives" LWVOR.org
Oregon Judge of the Supreme Court
[X] Rives Kistler INCUMBENT (2003-)	Good: "...courts have the power to waive those fees when people lack the funds to pay them. The courts should waive or defer fees when appropriate." LWVOR.org
Oregon Judge of the Court of Appeals Position 3
[X] Darleen Ortega INCUMBENT
Oregon Judge of the Court of Appeals Position 7
[X] Robert Wollheim INCUMBENT
Oregon Judge of the Circuit Court 4th District (Multnomah County), Position 15
[X] Alicia A Fuchs INCUMBENT
Oregon Judge of the Circuit Court 4th District (Multnomah County), Position 20
[X] Eric J Bloch INCUMBENT
Oregon Judge of the Circuit Court 4th District (Multnomah County), Position 25
[X] Kathleen M Dailey INCUMBENT

--MultCo Elections PDF, Oregon Blue Book

The judicial elections seem one of the most bizarre and dull aspects of the ballot. The candidates don't really campaign and can't appear to be political. Ultimately, it comes down to credentials.

The one contested race, the open supreme court position, is somewhat interesting. Initially, I was leaning toward Arlow as I liked some of his answers to the League of Women Voters, but I think I'll go with Landau. Yep, I have to admit it is because of 1998 gay rights ruling. I remember that ruling and appreciate his reasoning.

2010 Primary: OR Treasurer (Dem)

2010-05-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Democratic Party
Oregon State Treasurer
Four-year term, $72k salary
Manages investment of state monies
Manages the sale of state bonds
Along with Governor and Secretary of State, oversees management of state lands LWVOR.org

[_] Rick Metsger

Top 3 things I want to do if I win. LWVOR.org
- "Create Jobs..."
- Interesting: "To improve financial literacy in our schools. In 2009 I authored and passed a bill to put the State Treasurer on the Board of Education."
- Meh: "Protect retiree pensions."
"In 2009, as chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, Metsger steered through a 6-cent-per-gallon gas tax increase, the first such hike since 1993. In earlier sessions, he faced off against powerful interests, helping reform the state’s workers’ comp insurer, SAIF Corp., in 2003 and taking on abusive tax practices by utilities in 2005." WWeek.com
"...Metsger is arguably the best-qualified sitting member of the Legislature to serve as treasurer. He's worked on everything from mortgage reform to financial literacy to co-authoring bills to finance several billions of dollars in bonds to pay for massive transportation improvements and create thousands of badly needed jobs in the state..." OregonLive.com

[X] Ted Wheeler
APPOINTED INCUMBENT

Yikes: His campaign website doesn't specify his plan or accomplishments as treasurer and is still written toward Multnomah County voters. TedWheeler.com
Top 3 things I want to do if I win. LWVOR.org
- "Wise financial management of state funds through safe and diversified investments..."
- "Create jobs..."
- Excellent: "Provide independent evaluations of financial products like mortgages and credit cards so consumers get the best value."
"Wheeler maneuvered the tricky shoals of the county without alienating constituents or most of his peers at City Hall and Metro. That collegial style will play well in Salem. Wheeler’s prior experience at Wells Fargo and Copper Mountain Trust give him stronger financial credentials than recent state treasurers." WWeek.com
"...only Wheeler has the relevant private-sector financial experience to pair with his public service..." OregonLive.com

Zzzzzzzzzzzzz. I can't imagine many Oregon voters are familiar or knowledgeable about what exactly the treasurer does, at least I know I'm not. Bond ratings, land management, pension management are important, but these seem hard issues to politically debate -- especially with the Democrat contenders seemingly agreeing with other. I like what Wheeler did in Multnomah County and he is already in the job, so there is no reason to throw him out.

The Democrat will face an unopposed and unknown (to me) Republican state senator Chris Telfer, a Bend CPA. Her outdated campaign website still refers to January 2010 election as a future event, quotes Ronald Reagan, and claims she "is the only individual currently serving in the Oregon Legislature, with a financial expertise".

2010 Primary: OR Governor (Dem)

2010-04-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Democratic Party
Oregon Governor
Four-year term, $93k salary LWVOR.org

[_] Roger Obrist	Yikes: No statement in the official Oregon voters' guide. OregonVotes.org Unlikely: "I would support legislation 'Eliminating property Taxes' as a way of raising revenue. Finding an alternative such as a sales tax." LWVOR.org "...a retired construction worker from Damascus, is also in the race, but not running a serious campaign." WWeek.com
[X] John Kitzhaber FORMER GOVERNOR 1995-2003	Jobs For Oregon plan JohnKitzhaber.com Making Americans Healthier plan JohnKitzhaber.com Education plan JohnKitzhaber.com Energy and Environment plan JohnKitzhaber.com Wow. I forgot about that: "In 1994, he displayed a level of aggressiveness and naked ambition unusual in Oregon politics. Democrat Barbara Roberts was finishing her first term as governor and planning to run for a second. Kitzhaber decided to take her on and forced her out of the race." WWeek.com "..The good news is Kitzhaber seems interested in more than a farewell tour. His brain is filled with ideas—about how to cut healthcare costs by putting a brake on ineffective procedures; about combining K-12, community colleges and higher ed into one K-20 entity; about budgeting in a different way." WWeek.com "..told the OEA to improve teacher performance if the union wants more money. He told enviros that before agreeing to their desires on LNG, he’d need to figure out a way to avoid short-changing employers and low-income ratepayers..." WWeek.com
[_] Bill Bradbury	America's Green State plan Bradbury2010.com The Bank of Oregon plan Bradbury2010.com LGBTQA plan Bradbury2010.com Quality Education plan Bradbury2010.com "...improved Oregon’s dreadful campaign-finance reporting mechanism, creating a new system that allows real-time reporting, easy searching and far greater transparency." WWeek.com "... exhibited little leadership...ignored abuses in Oregon’s initiative system, such as signature fraud...excessively partisan when he oversaw a post-census legislative redistricting in 2001...did nothing about the fact Oregon is one of only five states that places no limits on political contributions..." WWeek.com "...has also been shameless in his pandering to interest groups...promised the state’s most powerful labor organization...an additional $2 billion for education...[although] projected $2.5 billion budget deficit...pledged to shut down the state’s largest coal-fired power plant without proposing another source of juice...opposition to liquefied natural gas...proposing no viable alternative...create a “Bank of Oregon.”...prohibited by the state constitution...." WWeek.com

In the other races, I complained about the lack of specific plans from the other candidates. However, Kitzhaber's and Bradbury's similar campaign websites are overwhelming in their plans. Admittedly, I relied on Willamette Week's analysis more than reading through each website.

As our former governor, I automatically favored Kitzhaber. Although his health plan didn't really work out, he at least tried. Also, his efforts were largely hampered by a hostile Republican legislature. So, hopefully, he will have better luck with a friendlier legislature.

Even before the race and Willamette Week's brutal critique, I was not impressed with Bradbury. I was disappointed with his half-ass 2002 senate race that gave Gordon Smith another six years (although Kitzhaber's own indecision to run also didn't help). Bradbury seems to be part of the Democrat elite that panders to the base, gradually works their way up, and quietly expects to ascend to office by default.

There is also the electability factor in the general election. Although his last stint as governor may not have been stellar, Kitzhaber still is the impressive Oregon governor candidate: former ER doctor, jean-wearing outdoors man, and independent non-panderer. To me Bradbury seems to be a stereotypical Democrat candidate that may struggle against a strong Republican candidate.

2010 Primary: Metro President

2010-04-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Nonpartisan
Metro Council President
Four-year term, $114k salary LWVPDX.org (PDF)

[X] Bob Stacey	Good: "...I have recommended—and will continue to recommend—a “restart” of the CRC process, with new aims of repairing the existing bridge as inexpensively as possible, adding non-highway transportation choices to the crossing, and achieving regional greenhouse gas reduction goals..." BobStacey.com Good: "We can allow new development to pave over those farm fields we depend on to grow those foods. Or we can permanently protect this close-in farmland. I want new development to contribute to a fund to ensure that permanent protection." BobStacey.com
[_] Rex Burkholder	Ugh. Currently on Metro board and seems to be one of the least critical voices regarding the Vancouver SUV Bridge. Considering Vancouver/Clark County oppose everything that Metro stands for, it's odd he is so willing to go along with their bridge project.
[_] Tom Hughes	Ugh. Campaign website oddly nonspecific. Ugh. Troubling endorsements from Commercial Association of Realtors, Portland Business Alliance, and suburbs -- all of whom would seem the least supportive of the Urban Growth Boundary and Metro. VoteTomHughes.com Poor reasoning. "...we'll be voting for Hughes, if for no other reason than being tired of the wasteful, juvenile 'planning' mafia that's quickly running our local government into bankruptcy...." BoJack.org It's like saying you don't like police wasting resources on policing. Planning is what Metro does.

It may merely be 'change' rhetoric, but Bob Stacey seems to get what Metro is about. Most importantly, Stacey is critical of Metro's current support of the Columbia River Crossing (AKA Vancouver SUV bridge). The I-5 bridge primarily benefits non-Metro residents: job-stealing, SUV-driving Vancouver and Washington residents. For generations, Metro residents have made significant sacrifices to live within the Urban Growth Boundary. Meanwhile, our Washington neighbors continue to sprawl, vote against bus and light rail, and refuse to even carpool over the bridge.

Current Metro Commissioner Burkholder seems too willing to bargain away Metro residents' interests in favor of the bridge for Washingtonians. Former suburban mayor Hughes touts employers he supposedly attracted to his city, but I'm not sure how that really relates to Metro as it focuses on long-term land use planning (although Stacey has also been campaigning on job creation).

2010 Primary: US Senator (OR Dem)

2010-04-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Democratic Party
US Senator, Oregon
6-year term, $174k salary

[_] Pavel Goberman	Perennial candidate: 2008 BOLI Commissioner, 2008 US Senator Democrat Primary, etc.
[_] Loren Hooker	Like Goberman, Hooker's campaign website seems to be a conservative wish list.
[X] Ron Wyden INCUMBENT (1996-)

-- League of Women Voters (PDF)

No reason not to support our senator.

2010 Primary: MultCo Chair

2010-04-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Nonpartisan
Chair of the Board of Multnomah County Commissioners
Four-year term, $136k salary

[_] Wes Soderback	So? "...His family has lived here for more than 100 years..." ElectWes2010.com Uh-oh: Did not respond to League of Women Voters timely. --LWV Yikes: "...Resent tax increases will help but, as the recovery money dries up we could be in for another budgit crisis. ..." (sic) MultCo Voters' Guide
[X] Jeff Cogen APPOINTED(?) INCUMBENT	Interesting: "In Multnomah County poverty has been moving east for at least a decade. We need to insure services follow the people who need them..." (LWV PDF) Annoying: Only "Possibly" supports sheriff charter reform proposal. (LWV PDF) Good, but not that relevant: Supports marriage equality (JeffCogen.com) Great gesture, but not the top priority for the county.
[_] Mike Darger	Uh-oh: Did not respond to League of Women Voters timely. LWVPDX.org Ugh: "...claims to have been affiliated with the national conservative group Americans for Prosperity..." WWeek.com

No reason not to support the incumbent Jeff Cogen -- although I wish his campaign had a few more details. The other two candidates seem a bit fringe.

2010 Primary: MultCo Sheriff

2010-04-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Nonpartisan
Multnomah County Sheriff (term through Dec. 2010)

[X] Dan Staton
(APPOINTED INCUMBENT 2009-)

Ugh: "...We have developed a marketing strategy team designed to build narrative, graphic and pictorial accounts of each aspect of the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office..."
Interesting, but vague: How is administering a training facility a top priority?: ...Staton said he'd like to see the county consider turning the jail [Wapato] into a regional corrections training facility...

[_] Muhammad Ra'oof

Huh?: "...my progressive leadership will accommodate a cordial working relationship..."
Good luck with that: "...As a progressive Sheriff, I will support progressive immigration laws..."
Meh: "...Community outreach involvement will be a centerpiece of my term as a progressive Sheriff..."
Need more: Not much else mentioned besides being "progressive". It would be nice to hear what progressive jail management/policing is and how it would be implemented with limited funds.

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Nonpartisan
Multnomah County Sheriff (term from Jan. 2011)
Four-year term, $135k salary

[X] Dan Staton	(See above)
[_] Muhammad Ra'oof	(See above)

--League of Women Voters of Portland (PDF), OregonLive.com

According to an OregonLive.com article, Multnomah County's Sheriff Department is far different than most other sheriff's departments in the state:

...Multnomah County runs the second-largest corrections operation in Oregon behind only the state prison system, with two jails that house about 1,300 inmates. No other sheriff's office devotes such a large proportion of its operations to running jails, according to the Oregon State Sheriffs' Association. Where the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office at one time provided policing for 200,000 residents, it now does so for about 17,000. Yet even as the duties have shifted, the elected sheriffs come from a law enforcement -- not corrections -- background....

Before he was appointed to state treasurer, former County Commissioner Ted Wheeler proposed changing the county charter to make the jails independent from the sheriff. It's a sensible proposal -- especially considering the current dysfunctional system. As I understand it, currently an unqualified patrolman is expected to administer a large jail system, but is not accountable to efficiently manage its budget as the county board is responsible for the finances.

It's easy to point out how the current sheriff management system has failed:

"...The $58 million Wapato Jail has sat empty since its completion in 2004 and has drained already-stretched county coffers of $300,000 a year to maintain...." (02/10/2010 OregonLive.com)
Meanwhile: "...the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office reported this week they were once again forced to release prisoners because local jails were full..." (06/19/2009 WWeek.com)

While both candidates recognize Wapato as an embarrassment, neither have specific plans to resolve it or admit to the department's larger systematic failings. Not surprisingly, they both oppose removing the jails from the sheriff's office.

I'm tempted to cast a protest vote for underdog candidate Muhammad Ra'oof, but I can't find his specific ideas nor does he seem interested in campaigning on real reforms such as removing the jails, reforming overtime abuse, or bringing professional management to the department. He mainly says he is a progressive candidate and that's about it.

Incumbent Dan Staton doesn't even bother making a statement in the voters' guide and merely cites his experience and endorsements. In other words, 'trust me, I'm the status quo'. More disturbingly, Staton's response to the League of Women Voter's (PDF) concern about public confidence in the sheriff is "marketing" as opposed to acknowledging the department's numerous leadership scandals, incompetence, and mismanagement.

Unless another option is provided, I'll reluctantly vote for Staton and hope the charter reform follows.

04/26/2010: UPDATED AND REVISED.

2010 Primary: US Rep (OR-3rd Dem)

2010-04-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Democratic Party
US Representative, Oregon 3rd District
Two-year term, $174k salary

[_] John Sweeney

Ugh. Not a serious candidate: Didn't file a statement in the voters pamphlet. No campaign website.
Meh. Somehow managed to respond to League of Women Voters' questions: "Top 3 things I want to do if I win. LWVOR.org
- Yikes. Insane. Jobs; lower the Social Security Retirement age to 60. Make room for the young. Wrong. Retirement age needs to be raised or Carousel implemented. :)
- Unlikely strategy: National Health Care is a matter of National Security.
- Silly and wrong: Reinstate the long range missile systems, we need them to protect us from the asteroids & coments, that can destroy the Earth."

[X] Earl Blumenauer
INCUMBENT (1996-)

League of Women Voters' questions: "Top 3 things I want to do if I win." LWVOR.org
- "Create Jobs" 2010 campaign phrase that replaced 2004's 'fight terrorism'
- "Reform Healthcare" Brave, but good answer.
- "Protect the Planet" What no space missiles?

--Oregon Voters' Pamphlet, League of Women Voters of Oregon: Easy Voters' Guide

No reason not to re-elect our long-time congressman.

2010 Primary: Metro Auditor

2010-04-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Nonpartisan
Metro Auditor
4-year term, $92k salary

[X] Suzanne Flynn

-- League of Women Voters (PDF)

Flynn's campaign website touts an Oregonian article about one of her Metro audits. It sounds to me that Metro is unable to actually show that all of the costs the region spends on land use and transportation is worth it.

The other Oregonian article her campaign cites was her audit of the zoo's construction project. Her audit questions the ability of the zoo to handle the $125M bond that I voted against in 2008.

Gordon in total bliss

2010-04-15T13:07:00.001-07:00

When she isn't dramatically meowing at us for attention or ignoring us, Gordon loves to rest her head either on our left shoulder (never the right shoulder) or our laps often making a loud sigh when she finally settles down.

2010 Primary: Portland Auditor

2010-04-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Nonpartisan
City of Portland Auditor
4-year term, $102k salary

[X] LaVonne Griffin-Valade
INCUMBENT

PRO: Says she will strengthen Independent Police Review Division.

-- League of Women Voters (PDF)

I voted for her in 2006 for Multnomah County auditor, so I suppose there is no reason why I wouldn't vote for her again.

Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm

2010-04-14T07:26:00.001-07:00

Scott's photos:

tulipallee, originally uploaded by sweber4507.

Scott's photo of ma and my enormous head:

Norm&JoyceInField2 (1), originally uploaded by sweber4507.

Scott, ma, and I returned to Wooden Shoe Farm last weekend. Our hopes dimmed of having a nice walk through a rural farm when we found the Woodburn I-5 exit backed-up and a heavy traffic along the highway. Like our past visits, the farm was very crowded with a tacky carnival area at the front of the farm. However, once we actually got to the tulip fields, I was once again amazed by the colors. The trip was very much worth it.

2010 Primary: MultCo Auditor

2010-04-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Nonpartisan
Multnomah County Auditor
4 year term, $88k salary

[X] Steve March
INCUMBENT

--League of Women Voters (PDF)

Although Steve March narrowly lost the election for this position back in 2006, he apparently was appointed to the position since then. I recall back then that there seemed to be a glut of auditor candidates.

2010 Primary: OR Rep 42nd (Dem)

2010-04-07T07:30:00.000-07:00

I'll start my traditional online analysis of the upcoming primary election ballot. It's still a little early. I'll work my way through the ballot beginning with the unopposed candidates.

I have no idea what's going on in the Oregon House. The Democrats are currently the majority. My quick review of the candidates show 34 Democrat incumbents and 23 Republican incumbents are re-running for their office, but I doubt incumbency means much.

Oregon House of Representatives
Quorum = 40 House Rules (PDF)
Majority Caucus
05	08	09	10	11	12	13	14	16	21	22	27	28	30	31	32	33	34	35	36	38	40	41	42	43	44	45	46	47	48	49	50	52	54	29	51
Republican Caucus
01	02	04	06	07	15	17	18	19	20	23	24	25	26	39	53	56	57	58	59	60	03	37	55

--VoteSmart.org

May 18, 2010, Oregon Primary Election
Democratic Party
Oregon State Representative, 42nd District

[X] Jules Kopel Bailey
1-TERM INCUMBENT (2009-)

Endorsements:

Significant contributions to Friends of Jules:

$24.7k Oregon Climate PAC
$7.2k Oregon League of Conservation Voters PAC
$3.7k Oregon League of Conservation Voters PAC
$6k Brian Wannamaker/Real estate developer
$2.5k Brian G. Wannamaker/Real estate developer
$5.3 Oregon Nurse PAC
$5k Eric Hennings, Seattle, WA
$4k Future PAC, House Builders
$4k Donald Washburn, Private Investigator
$2.5k Credit Union Legislative Action Fund

-- ORESTAR

Oregon Education Association
Basic Rights Oregon PAC
The Oregon Nurses Association
Oregon AFL-CIO
Planned Parenthood of Oregon
NARAL Pro-Choice Oregon
SEIU local 503
Oregon Building Trades Council

Oregon Council of Police Associations
Portland Association of Teachers/TVIP
Oregon League of Conservation Voters
Joint Council of Teamsters No. 37
CWA 7901
Oregon State Council for Retired Citizens Political Action Committee

--JulesForOregon.com, LWVPDX.org (PDF)

Having just moved to SE Portland last year, I don't know know anything about Bailey -- not that I really track what goes on in the legislature. I'll, of course, support the guy running unopposed.

garden border installed

2010-03-27T22:04:00.000-07:00

Scott and I installed edging where our sloped front and side yards fall on the sidewalk. Although we would some day love to install a stone wall, for now we're using a cheap & easy eight-foot treated boards and Frame It All landscape edging kits from Home Depot.

While installing the edging, we discovered parts of our front lawn had taken over as much as a foot of the sidewalk. Scott even unknowingly managed to grow some of his plants in just six-inches of soil on top of the sidewalk.

Several people passing-by and neighbors complimented us on our yard. Someone even described the edging as a picture frame around a painting.

Kitchen cabinets: Phase Two

2010-03-15T07:40:00.000-07:00

We reluctantly resumed our kitchen remodel. We've enjoyed are new sink, counter top, dishwasher, and cabinets so much that we haven't been motivated to install the two cabinets above the refrigerator and stove.

Here is the elaborate plan I drafted to show the electrician where we needed the plug:

Fortunately, we had the electrician install the microwave/hood plug at the same time he did the counter top plug. It's not pretty, but I'm glad he did this:

Here is the wallboard. This is actually my first attempt. However, the wall board was too thick and I had to take this down. Unlike the other wall in which the plaster was much thicker than the drywall, on this wall the plaster seemed thinner (or maybe the wallboard I used this time was thicker than what we used on the other wall???). So, I removed this wallboard and cut the lathe and then reinstalled the wallboard. Very messy.

Here is joint compound which I glopped on. Fortunately, this will be hidden behind the cabinets, so we didn't feel the need for it to look perfect.:

Here is where we left off until next weekend:

We'll assemble the cabinets this week. However, before we hang the cabinets on the wall, we'll need to figure out the venting. I'm still researching code and the installation manual, but we plan on running four-inch duct through the two cabinets and out the side of the house. We were tempted to avoid the venting issue use a ventless hood filter like our old apartment, but those vent-less filters don't work well.

Rain Chains Up

2010-01-18T13:46:00.001-08:00

Rain Chains Up, originally uploaded by nojam75.

Kitchen cabinets: 95% done!!!

2010-01-03T08:50:00.000-08:00

Last night, we finished the last major portion of our kitchen cabinet install. The highlights:

0. Design and Buy: We spent months measuring and using IKEA's handy kitchen planner. Our kitchen is a good size room, but every corner has a door or window which prevented designing a L-shaped layout. So, we settled on keeping the kitchen's original layout -- although we have moved the fridge to another wall against a window.

Our original $600 plan ended-up becoming $2,800 plan. We had considered IKEA's VARDE free-standing kitchens which seemed easier, but the sizes didn't work out and had fewer options than the typical AKURUM built-in kitchen we selected. IKEA had a kitchen sale which compelled us to also order the microwave and cabinets for above the fridge/stove wall too. The IKEA Kitchen Planner totaled $2,500, but after the IKEA rep added all the little extras our plan was missing, we were closer to $2,900 before the discount.

Unfortunately the day we ordered the cabinets, I also dislocated my knee cap, so the project was basically delayed a month while I was on crutches.
1. Wall Cabinets: We liked the original old wall cabinets and considered keeping them because they were very large. However, the original cabinets were too tall and would have left us with one foot of clearance above any new base cabinets. Like most original carpentry in our house, we discover the cabinet was merely held in with nails so it was just a matter of pulling them down.

The new cabinets are IKEA AKURUM with STAT White front. We wanted glass doors to match the original hutch on the other wall and considered having all four doors glass, but one of our final design decisions was to change the end doors to solid to hide the contents.

Our only regret is installing the wall cabinets before installing the lighting and top molding. IKEA seems to assume wall cabinets will not be installed near the ceiling. We still need to ponder how we will install the lighting and top molding. I have a plan that involves my sister's petite arms.
2. Base Cabinets Removal: The scariest decision was removing the original cabinets and sink because that was a point of no return. From our prior glimpses under the cabinets, we knew there was missing underlayment beneath the cabinets. Our first carpentry task was installing a 3x5-foot section of underlayment. It was pretty easy. Well, admittedly we had Home Depot cut the board to size, but still it seemed like a major task considering I haven't taking wood shop since 10th grade.
3. Plumbing, Electrical, and Drywall: Originally, we thought we would be without a sink for a week while the plumbing and electrical were installed. Well, moving plumbing connections a couple of feet and installing a couple of outlets was a major project that took weeks to finish -- delayed in part due to Christmas. Instead of just patching a couple of holes, the entire bottom half of the lath and plaster wall had to be replaced which we had not anticipated. We insulated the exterior portion of the wall to protect the plumbing and eventually figured out how to install the wallboard. While our first wall installation is less than perfect, most of it will be covered by the cabinets and eventually tile backer board.
4. Base Cabinets, Sink, Counter Top, and Dishwasher: The base cabinet assembling was as easy as the IKEA instructions stated. The only trick was figuring out that the DOMSJO sink also included the hardware for the base cabinet.

We chose the NUMERAR oak countertops because they were relatively cheap and would match the oak floors in the rest of the house. The biggest challenge was figuring out how to cut the counter top which was delivered in one long piece. Fortunately the DOMSJO sink only requires a straight end cut, so we didn't have to cut a sink hole. My error was not supporting the counter top while cutting. The piece twisted and split at one corner, so we had to rotate the bad edge against the wall. Also not mentioned in the IKEA instructions and not obvious when first unpacking was that the counter top does have a top and bottom side as the bottom side is stamped at one corner. I also discovered that it is well worth buying a high quality circular saw blade instead of using the one that came with the saw.

What we didn't realize with the NUMERAR counter top is that we now need to oil it daily FOR THE REST OF OUR LIVES.
5. TOE KICK, TOP MOLDING, AND TWEAKS: We still have to install the toe kick and top molding. We also need to adjust one of the base cabinet doors and see if we can fit the dishwasher closer into the cabinet.

FIRST DRAFT

Avatar: C

2009-12-23T21:07:00.002-08:00

Avatar Creature (not from the movie), originally uploaded by Adriano Muraca.

Scott complains that I rate nearly every movie a "C" -- except Star Trek. That may be true, but five days later, I can't say Avatar left much of an impression on me. It wasn't awful, but wasn't outstanding either.

The uninteresting soldier-infiltrates-the-primitive-natives story reminded me of Dances With Wolves. The heartless corporate militia bad guys seemed too inhumane and one dimensional. District 9 had many similar themes and storyline, but was more convincing and interesting.

The 3D and CGI were interesting gimmicks. But like the last three Star Wars movies, too much CGI just isn't convincing when it is overused. The avatar characters didn't seem real to me and many of the planet scenes seemed like trippy black light posters. Overall, the movie seemed more like a video game.

2012: D

2009-12-06T16:50:00.001-08:00

2012 movie poster, originally uploaded by heavenivk.

Wow, it's been nearly three months since I've seen a movie (in a theater). And yet there still wasn't anything I really wanted to see. Scott, ma, and I decided to see 2012 this afternoon. It lived up to our expectations as a big, CGI, disaster movie with a silly story and numerous plot holes. Worse, it was very long and boring at times. A couple seated behind us even louded complained about how long it was.

house's first xmas decoration

2009-11-29T22:24:00.000-08:00

After three weeks on crutches, this was my first productive weekend.

We invited mom and Sheena to come over and decorate our GE Christmas tree on Saturday. Gordon loves the return of her tree.

Scott and I splurged on our first Christmas lights for the house. We chose twinkling cool white LEDs. The LEDs go well with the house's blue-grey color. The eave and gutter clip system we found worked very well.

We also re-started our kitchen remodel and opened the IKEA boxes we ordered just before my knee accident. We installed a set of wall cabinets. It was a lot of work, but we got them up this evening. Next we'll work demolitioning the base cabinets and coordinating with our plumber.

patella week 3

2009-11-23T21:50:00.000-08:00

Woo-hoo! I finally got into the knee clinic and have been freed from the crutches and full-leg brace. I'm now staggering around.

new trees planted!

2009-11-21T19:14:00.000-08:00

We love the two Persian Ironwoods Friends of Trees planted today. Scott volunteered with the group and planted 15 trees in another neighborhood while I watched another group plant our two trees with my crippled leg.

funny: variations of Poker Face

2009-11-09T21:51:00.000-08:00

From last night's Family Guy Presents: Seth & Alex's Almost Live Comedy Show (via ohnotheydidnt). Yes, it's very immature and offensive, but still funny:

Christopher Walken also covered Poker Face last week:

And here is the original:

dislocated patella = bad

2009-11-04T15:13:00.000-08:00

I thought I would be little healthier by walking to the bank instead of driving last night. Instead I tripped on an A-board, twisted my leg, and dislocated my patella (kneecap) resulting in drama: screaming... yelling... sobbing... strangers... tenants... paramedics... firemen... ambulance... drugs... ER... "the Michael Jackson drug"... wake-up... Scott... Walgreens... crutches... home.

Fortunately, I understand that a dislocated kneecap is not as bad as other knee injuries -- although at the time I couldn't imagine anything more torturous.

kitchen remodel: phase 5 of 31

2009-10-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

Scott and I both took a four-day weekend to paint the kitchen. We've watched too many one-day home improvement shows on HGTV and DIY Network because we completely underestimated how long it would take to paint the room. We spent Friday removing the wall cabinets, patching the walls, taping the room, and going to IKEA. We spent Saturday priming and Sunday painting the ceiling. We finally painted the walls today and met with the IKEA contractor and our plumber friend. Now we just need to paint the trim, order the new cabinets, build, install, have pluming and electrical work down, etc., etc., not to mention the flooring. So, we've merely started the kitchen remodel.

Lower Lewis River Falls & Yale Lake

2009-10-20T19:30:00.001-07:00

Here are Scott's amazing photos from Sunday:

Lower Lewis Falls:

Lower Lewis River Falls, originally uploaded by sweber4507.

Yale Lake:

LewisRiverLakeReflectionWest, originally uploaded by sweber4507.

Afternoon at Lewis River Falls -or- Day We Almost Lost Mom

2009-10-19T20:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Scott, Sheena, Ma, and I took what we thought would be a short drive to the Lower Lewis Falls at Gifford Pinchot National Forest. However, we didn't realize 40 miles from I-5 would take hours on winding forest roads. We finally got to the falls about an hour before dusk. Scott scrambled to take pictures (which I hope to post).

At some point, Scott, Sheena and I took the stairs down to the falls. I thought mom saw us from the viewing area overlooking the falls, but apparently she thought we headed back to the car. Worse, mom took a different path to another parking area. When we came back up and didn't find mom at the car, we all became worried. We were basically in the middle of nowhere in a vacant park, out of cellphone range, looking for mom in a dark, densely wooded area with poorly marked trails. Of course, we then started to assume the worse like she fell down the canyon into the river or some horrible Blaire Witch scenario (the only soul we saw in the last miles into the forest was a suspicious-looking hunter). Fortunately, Sheena found mom after twenty minutes of worry. In hindsight, the area between the river and parking lot was relatively small, but still it was creepy not being able to find mom right away.

French drain AKA ditch

2009-10-13T09:01:00.000-07:00

Before we could do a more visually satisfying home improvement project like paint the kitchen, Scott forced us to do the responsible thing and install a boring French drain before the fall rains. Its fancy European name is misleading as a French drain is basically a type of drainage ditch with pipe.

Flavel House

2009-09-09T06:58:00.000-07:00

Scott's wonderful pictures:

, originally uploaded by sweber4507.
Flavel House - Eastern Exposure-Vertical, originally uploaded by sweber4507.	Flavel House Sitting Room, originally uploaded by sweber4507.
Flavel House Family Room, originally uploaded by sweber4507.
Flavel House Music Room 2, originally uploaded by sweber4507.
, originally uploaded by sweber4507.	, originally uploaded by sweber4507.

On Sunday, ma, Sheena, Scott and I took a day trip to Astoria. In addition to seeing The Goonies house and Lewis & Clark's Fort Clatsop (boring), we saw the Flavel House Museum. The 1885 house was very impressive - especially considering that it was completed merely 79 years after Lewis & Clark left Fort Clatsop. It was interesting to learn that the Victorian style house also maintained Victorian etiquette in what still had to have been a young pioneer town. As new homeowners, Scott and I learned that we really should set a day each week to accept callers and keep a silver platter out to collect calling cards.