Robin's Nest

• PC correctness be damned... we want our tree!

  Number of comments: 1
  Daily Tidings--Bellview Elementary School Principal Michelle Zundel, who decided to remove the schools Christmas holiday tree and replaced it with snowmen after a family and a couple students complained that the tree was offensive and a religious symbol decided to return the tree after more than 300 people were upset [...]
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  Posted: December 10, 2009, 5:54pm EST
  by Robin

• It's about Time

  Number of comments: 0
  CNN Money --Google today filed a lawsuit against Salt Lake City-based Pacific WebWorks, which is an application service provider and software development firm for allegedly using Google's company name and logo to promote fraudulent work-at-home moneymaking schemes.these advertisements or spam appear in various places around the web when people are' [...]
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  Posted: December 09, 2009, 7:07am EST
  by Robin

• ... the kids go for their non-religious gifts under their nonoffensive snowman at Christmasof

  Number of comments: 2
  Mail TribuneThe holiday giving tree... Green... surreal and offensive.Offensive?!?Students returning from Thanksgiving break were surprised to find that there Christmas holiday gift tree had been replaced by a couple of snowmen where the tree had stood.Bellview Elementary School Principal Michelle Zundel at Ashland, acting on a family's complaint and complaints [...]
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  Posted: December 04, 2009, 4:31pm EST
  by Robin

• you know the economy is bad when a local temporary jobs service starts laying off

  Number of comments: 2
  KVAL- According to the US Labor Department last Thursday, 542,000 people filed jobless claims last week. That's up over 27,000 from the week before. In Lane County alone, more than 43, 000, which is 12.4% of Lane County's population according to the 2008 US Census Bureau estimate of 346,560 people.And [...]
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  Posted: December 02, 2009, 8:55am EST
  by Robin

• "it makes me think" Says County commissioner who is charged with a tax that he created

  The Oregonian --Commissioner Roy Rogers from Tigard, who has been a Commissioner since 1985 understands all too well why there are "system development charges" for parks and schools, electrical, mechanical and building permit fees as he was one of the individuals who was responsible for implementing and voting for increases [...]
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  Posted: November 29, 2009, 6:05am EST
  by Robin

• Want Something Done in Eugene?Send The City Council Anonymous Information

  Number of comments: 2
  Robin's commentary --USA TodayWhen I saw this article from USA Today, I think I spent a good five minutes just laughing.The article itself brings up a very interesting point on the issue of crime in downtown Eugene. "The Oregon Criminal Justice Commission says between 2007 and 2008, violent crime in" [...]
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  Posted: November 26, 2009, 5:57am EST
  by Robin

• we take for granted how merchandise gets to the stores...

  Number of comments: 2
  TONOPAH, Ariz KPHO--This story for me is a little bit closer to home because until a few days ago, I was driving one of these big rig's for this company.Edward A. French, 45, of Long Beach, Calif., was pronounced dead at the scene after losing control of his rig and [...]
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  Posted: November 22, 2009, 6:43am EST
  by Robin

• life happens...

  Number of comments: 5
  Robin's Commentary --Once again, I have to apologize to my faithful readers for not keeping up with the postings. A lot has been happening in my life and in my families. We are struggling with a family member who has recently developed cancer and I myself just got through recovering [...]
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  Posted: November 18, 2009, 6:14pm EST
  by Robin

• Happy Duck-a-ween?

  Number of comments: 1
  Robin's commentaryOkay, I would like to start off by saying that I am really not a big football fan and believe it or not, neither is anybody else in my household. Yes, we really do exist in Eugene/Springfield, home of the University of Oregon Ducks.(Suddenly... a loud gasp echoes throughout [...]
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  Posted: October 31, 2009, 5:11am EDT
  by Robin

• The Governator tells it like it is to the California Legislature

  Number of comments: 14
  New York Times --Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger sent a nice little response to the California Legislature in a recent veto statement that pretty much expresses his feelings in a hidden message. A response that I think some of us feel about our local governor and legislature.to view the message... take the [...]
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  Posted: October 29, 2009, 6:38am EDT
  by Robin

• the 2010 census surveyis about to come your front door... Should you be asked if you are a citizen?

  Number of comments: 1
  The register guardAre you a citizen? That is one of the issues as Senator David Vitter, Louisiana Republican would like to have as one of the questions being asked. In fact, he wants to go as far as having funding cut off unless the census includes that question.Vitter says he [...]
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  Posted: October 24, 2009, 10:33am EDT
  by Robin

• Comedian Soupy Sales Dead At 83

  Number of comments: 1
  MTV NewsIt was a simple gag, but one that made Soupy Sales a household name: a pie in the face, or 20,000 pies, to be exact. That slapstick comedic trick, along with a warehouse of goofy faces and wacky characters helped elevate Sales (born Milton Supman) to one of the [...]
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  Posted: October 23, 2009, 6:59am EDT
  by Robin

• going to hell?it was only a matter of time before somebody would find a way to profit from it

  Number of comments: 1
  My Northwest.comSeattle based company Pandemonium Real Estate says it is real estate sales are going to hell... literally, and are selling like hotcakes.The company, launched two months ago, sells its client's deeds to lots in hell, and business has been good.Owner David Cook says that they've been surprised at all' [...]
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  Posted: October 18, 2009, 11:58am EDT
  by Robin

• Like most of her classmates Avery Gordon misses a fair amount of what her teacher says every morning

  Number of comments: 1
  The Register Guard--Like most of her classmates, River Road/El Camino del Rio Elementary School first-grader Avery Gordon misses a fair amount of what her teacher, Imelda Cortez, says every morning.With the launch of River Road’s dual language immersion program this year, Cortez speaks solely in Spanish the first half of [...]
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  Posted: October 17, 2009, 8:55am EDT
  by Robin

• Portland council backs legal status to illegal alien students

  Number of comments: 0
  The Oregonian--The Portland city council was so inspired by a film about illegal youth, that they passes a resolution Wednesday supporting a federal proposal known as the dream act that would offer residency to most of the students who came to the United States at the age of 15 or [...]
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  Posted: October 15, 2009, 5:17pm EDT
  by Robin

• upcoming taxes: ignore the man behind curtain

  Number of comments: 0
  The Oregonian --Democratic leaders and seal on Monday, decided to drop their attempt to reverse the meaning of a "yes" and a "no" onto tax increases that may go to the voters next year. This means that if the two tax hikes go before the voters next January, voters would [...]
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  Posted: October 15, 2009, 4:07pm EDT
  by Robin

• California: ever wonder what life would be without diesel?

  Number of comments: 0
  Robin's Commentary --Lately, we've heard a lot about the new 2010 EPA standards and some of them I can see and others I think they're just being overly ridiculous. California for example, as we all know has a very strict EPA standards, especially when it comes to motor vehicles. In [...]
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  Posted: October 11, 2009, 9:31pm EDT
  by Robin

• everything is okay now... the recession will soon be over...

  Number of comments: 0
  Portland Business Journal --The University of Oregon Index of Economic Indicators rose 0.5 percent in August to 84.4, based on a 1997 benchmark of 100.Tim Duy, director of the Oregon Economic Forum and a UO adjunct assistant professor, said the increase “suggests the Oregon recession will end during the second [...]
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  Posted: October 09, 2009, 5:02am EDT
  by Robin

• Portland: 300 more miles of bike paths planned Downtown business owners concerned about losing business

  Number of comments: 3
  KATU--A planned increase in number bikeways throughout the city of Portland has downtown business owners worried that it will drive people away. “I like that it’s a bike-friendly city, but I also want it to be a city that’s friendly for businesses as well,” said Jane Adams, one of the [...]
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  Posted: October 08, 2009, 11:07am EDT
  by Robin

• in case of an emergency, put your bra on your face

  Number of comments: 1
  CNet news--The humble bra.Most women hate them. However, Elena Bodnar, who got her start as a scientist in the Ukraine has come up with a new reason to like them.In 1986, she witnessed the devastating effects of the Chernobyl nuclear plant disaster, and among other things and she noticed, was [...]
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  Posted: October 03, 2009, 9:29pm EDT
  by Robin

• up up and away...

  Number of comments: 0
  Oregon Department of Transportation --October means the beginning of a lot of things. Fall, my favorite holiday... Halloween, and of course, new taxes and fees.And unfortunately, some of those fees that are going up is the cost of driving a vehicle.Some of the changes include some of the following...A regular [...]
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  Posted: October 02, 2009, 5:45am EDT
  by Robin

• in this corner -- the Oregon Legislature Their opponent -- the Oregon taxpayer Who will win the battle for $733 million tax increase?

  Number of comments: 2
  The statesman JournalOpponents of the Oregon Legislature's plan for a $733 million tax increase on corporations and higher income individuals collected more than twice the 55,000 valid signatures needed to place the initiative on the statewide ballot. let's see, they have collected more than twice the number of signatures necessary... [...]
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  Posted: September 26, 2009, 11:25am EDT
  by Robin

• Obama Care - what's your opinion?

  Number of comments: 1
  Robins Commentary --It's really funny in a way when you think about it... nationwide healthcare, and why we do not have it.I personally would like most people are in agreement that it is something that is needed or at least would be nice to have the option available, however, one [...]
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  Posted: September 22, 2009, 6:59am EDT
  by Robin

• Dirty Dancing star Patrick Swayze, dead at 57

  Number of comments: 0
  The Washington Post--Patrick Swayze, 57, an actor who enjoyed success in Hollywood as the snake-hipped charmer of "Dirty Dancing" and a romantic lead from beyond the grave in "Ghost," died Sept. 14, his publicist reported from Los Angeles. He had pancreatic cancer. [...]
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  Posted: September 14, 2009, 8:54pm EDT
  by Robin

• Oregon governorship? The race is on

  Number of comments: 3
  KPTV--Oregon Congressman Peter DeFazio met last week with former Gov. John Kitzhaber discussed the 2010 governors race. DeFazio, is currently considering the idea of running for governor however, he has not yet made that decision.Former Gov. John Kitzhaber, last week announced that he would seek a third term as Oregon's' [...]
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  Posted: September 14, 2009, 5:22am EDT
  by Robin

• This will only happen once

  Number of comments: 0
  Today is 09/09/09 [...]
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  Posted: September 09, 2009, 1:08am EDT
  by Robin

• It's interesting how labor laws do not apply in some industries

  Number of comments: 3
  Well I'm in my third week of my new job. And I can tell you, that it has been a real eye opening experience.Of course, since I have an associates of science degree in computer networking from lane community college (LCC or (L)ousy (C)ollege (C)hoice) which of course, fully qualifies' [...]
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  Posted: September 03, 2009, 7:52am EDT
  by Robin

• blog news

  Number of comments: 0
  Hey sorry again for the long delay.new job, long hours and low pay.gads it's nice to be a college graduate. too bad that did not get me a job :-Pplease stay tuned, more to come... [...]
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  Posted: August 23, 2009, 11:07pm EDT
  by Robin

• Oregon construction contractors license renewals dropped by almost 14%

  Number of comments: 2
  USA Today --The number of Oregon contractors renewing their general contractor's license is declining, and some worry that some contractors who are not renewing their licenses may be working illegally.This is based on the decline of 699 license renewals and 220 construction businesses or individuals that were fined for working, [...]
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  Posted: August 17, 2009, 2:07pm EDT
  by Robin

• illegal aliens committing crimes and escaping back to Mexico Beware! It's no longer a safety zone from US law

  Number of comments: 1
  The Oregonian--Oregon police are hoping to take advantage of a little-known law in Mexico, article 4, which allows judges in Mexico to try their citizens accused of crimes overseas.In the past, Mexicans who commit serious crimes in the United States could literally "go home and hide" and flee prosecution. The [...]
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  Posted: August 12, 2009, 5:09am EDT
  by Robin

• National Debt -- no more

  Number of comments: 0
  [...]
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  Posted: August 11, 2009, 8:44am EDT
  by Robin

• GPS transponders in personal vehicles Oregon thinks it should be a federal program

  Number of comments: 2
  Daily Journal of CommerceUsing a GPS system in your car in order to collect a VARIABLE PER MILE TRAVELED tax versus the current system of paying a tax per gallon, is such a bad idea, that US representative Earl Blumenauer, Democrat Oregon, would like to take it to the federal [...]
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  Posted: August 10, 2009, 3:41am EDT
  by Robin

• Still Around

  Number of comments: 1
  Hi folks,Yes I am still around, and have a LOT of stuff that the good fools (er, I mean folks) in the Salem capital are up to. however, unlike the government, I have to take care of my financial responsibilities.please keep checking back for more fun and excitement.Robin [...]
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  Posted: August 04, 2009, 12:35pm EDT
  by Robin

• Oregon #3 in umemployment - Nothing to brag about

  Number of comments: 1
  The Oregonian--We have made it to No. 3 in Oregon in unemployment with a 12.1% unemployment rate, however that is nothing to be proud of because the numbers have not dropped really, 12.2% last month, the only reason that we are third now is that we got passed by Rhode [...]
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  Posted: July 20, 2009, 6:54am EDT
  by Robin

• News man Walter Cronkite

  Number of comments: 1
  CBS News--Walter Cronkite, the legend of CBS died Friday in his New York home after a long illness.He was 92"--And that's the way it is.--" I remember watching Cronkite on the nightly news. I have never really been a regular watcher of TV news, especially nowadays where they are mostly [...]
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  Posted: July 18, 2009, 11:01am EDT
  by Robin

• is Russia slapping the United States in the face? You be the judge

  Number of comments: 1
  This is a video that has been circulating around the Internet about Obama's recent trip to Russia.What I find very interesting, is two things. 1)I'm having difficulty finding the source of the video2) no major news services are reporting on this, or at least any that I can find.However, the' [...]
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  Posted: July 14, 2009, 8:26am EDT
  by Robin

• Lane County Board of Commissioners : "feed the pig"

  Number of comments: 0
  The Register Guard --Lane County commissioners, once again, it's time for more creative ways of getting money out of taxpayers to pay for [fill in the blank]This time, we're looking at countrywide vehicle registration fee increases to help pay for local roads and the $173 million road work backlog.The vehicles' [...]
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  Posted: July 13, 2009, 11:40am EDT
  by Robin

• Is this what Obama had in mind regarding the stimulus package?

  Number of comments: 1
  My Northwest.com--The city of Seattle and King County's cultural service agency 4culture will receive $500,000 in federal's stimulus money. Jim Kelly, executive director of 4culture said that the money will not be spent on art projects."This is jobs, jobs, jobs. This is not for art projects. It's for personnel and" [...]
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  Posted: July 10, 2009, 8:21pm EDT
  by Robin

• Sen. Chuck Schumer :Hopes to have the fundamental building blocks for comprehensive immigration reform by Labor Day

  Number of comments: 1
  CBS newsSenator Chuck Schumer, in a recent interview, said that he expects to have by Labor Day a comprehensive immigration reform bill that would be more generous to highly skilled immigrant workers then on the lower skilled workers, and would be tougher on the future ways of the illegal immigration."I" [...]
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  Posted: July 09, 2009, 7:11pm EDT
  by Robin

• Michael Jackson's ghost seen at Neverland

  Number of comments: 0
  Yup, it had to happen soon. but during an interview on CNN a face appears and again sighted in a hallway.go to youtube and pause at 3:34 to see the video. [...]
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  Posted: July 08, 2009, 9:25pm EDT
  by Robin

• Today we celebrate the anniversary of the "Declaration of Independence"

  Number of comments: 0
  Robin's commentary -Independence Day... otherwise known as the "fourth of July". A day of celebration, picnics, parties and lots and lots of entertaining fireworks.However, are we celebrating the Fourth of July as a celebration of our independence, or as an excuse to have a day off, get drunk and go [...]
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  Posted: July 04, 2009, 8:54am EDT
  by Robin

• Karl Malden dead at 97

  Number of comments: 0
  Karl Malden who stared in shows like One Eyed Jacks," "Birdman of Alcatraz," "Patton, and those "Don't leave home without it" American Express commercials and 1970s TV show "The Streets of San Francisco," died of natural causes Wednesday surrounded by his family at his Brentwood home.Rest in Peace Karl"Picture courtesy'" [...]
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  Posted: July 01, 2009, 8:51pm EDT
  by Robin

• Kulongoski fighting for higher taxes - no surprise there

  Number of comments: 27
  The Statesman JournalTed "tax and gouge me" praised lawmakers for approving higher fuel taxes and vehicle fees for road and bridge work, higher hospital and health-insurer taxes for expanded coverage to 80,000 children and 35,000 more adults, and other items on his 2009 agenda.Kulongoski also said that he will campaign [...]
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  Posted: July 01, 2009, 7:10am EDT
  by Robin

• 'Infomercial King' Billy Mays Found Dead in Home

  Number of comments: 0
  Fox News--Mays, 50, was found unresponsive by his wife inside his Tampa, Fla., home at 7:45 a.m. on Sunday, according to the Tampa Police Department.Police said there were no signs of forced entry to Mays' residence and foul play is not suspected. Authorities said an autopsy should be complete by' [...]
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  Posted: June 29, 2009, 6:55am EDT
  by Robin

• This will article doesn't particularly pertaining to Oregon, however, it could.

  Number of comments: 1
  The Montana news stationBozeman Montana city jobs require you to turn over your username and password of any social online sites that you belong to as part cities background check when applying for work with the city.The requirement requires the applicant to sign a waiver statement giving the city permission [...]
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  Posted: June 28, 2009, 6:12am EDT
  by Robin

• When does yes mean no and no mean yes?

  Number of comments: 0
  E-Mail from Lars Larson-- When does yes mean no and no mean yes? The Oregon legislature. Where democrats plan to pass taxes they know full well won’t pass muster with voters. So they’re pulling a last minute sneaky snakey move. Gut and stuff. That’s where you take one bill…gut everything [...]
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  Posted: June 26, 2009, 3:15am EDT
  by Robin

• Michael Jackson dead at 50

  Number of comments: 0
  Fox news --Michael Jackson died Thursday afternoon at a Los Angeles hospital.There are reports that Michael Jackson had gone into cardiac arrest although official cause of death wasn't immediately known. it always comes in threes -- rest in peace' [...]
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  Posted: June 25, 2009, 4:41pm EDT
  by Robin

• Ed McMahon and Farrah Fawcett

  Number of comments: 0
  The New York Times --Farrah Fawcettdied on Thursday in Santa Monica, CaliforniaShe was 62 and had been battling cancer since late 2006.The New York TimesEd McMahonEd McMahon, who steadfastly introduced Johnny Carson through the host’s nearly 30 year run on “The Tonight Show,” died Tuesday morning, NBC said. Mr. McMahon [...]
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  Posted: June 25, 2009, 11:16am EDT
  by Robin

• President Obama getting ready to take first step in immigration reform

  Number of comments: 0
  The New York TimesPresident Obama is expected to meet with congressional leaders of both parties on Thursday regarding comprehensive immigration reform.Both Republicans and Democrats agree that the current immigration system is broken and remain divided over how to fix it.Democrats, who are concerned that the unemployment rate is expected to [...]
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  Posted: June 25, 2009, 12:00am EDT
  by Robin

• House Bill 2377-Prohibits person of any age from operating motor vehicle while using mobile communication device except under certain circumstances.

  Number of comments: 2
  The Oregonian--WHAT THE MEASURE DOES: Requires use of a hands-free device to lawfully use a mobile communications device while operating a motor vehicle. Expands list of exceptions to include public safety personnel, persons using the device in the scope of employment, and person using devices that allow for voice communication [...]
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  Posted: June 24, 2009, 10:35pm EDT
  by Robin

• Lars has some thoughts to share

  Number of comments: 0
  E-mail from Lars Larson:I just want to encourage all of you to think about how Oregon and Washington should change to encourage an environment that does not tolerate this kind of despicable behavior. what’s next for Sam…the disgraced Mayor of Portland? Recall we can only hope. But given history in [...]
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  Posted: June 23, 2009, 10:16am EDT
  by Robin

• Even the president gets it regarding immigration

  Number of comments: 0
  The White House --President Obama, speaking at the Esperanza National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast June 19, 2009, speaks about his views on illegal immigration.Here are a few highlights from that speech. "Like some of you, I am the son of a parent who came to these shores in search of a" [...]
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  Posted: June 21, 2009, 2:26pm EDT
  by Robin

• A US senator from Oklahoma claims that the way Oregon is spending its portion of the stimulus package is not in line with the intent of the program

  Number of comments: 0
  The Oregonian --Senator Tom Coburn -- Republican from Oklahoma, is making the accusation that four out of five Oregon projects, and a project from Washington State University in Vancouver qualify as a questionable project.Coburn claims that there is misappropriation of taxpayer money. For example,Scappoose -- receiving $4.2 million to raise [...]
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  Posted: June 20, 2009, 11:31am EDT
  by Robin

• Ever wonder why Springfield gets more done then Eugene?

  Number of comments: 1
  The answer in my opinion is trust.Now Springfield is not perfect. it has it flaws, and it has it good points too.One of those good points is the leadership and our mayor.I was very glad to hear that Sid Leiken was running for congress.I feel that he is in touch [...]
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  Posted: June 19, 2009, 10:42pm EDT
  by Robin

• President Obama-- Fly Gate

  Number of comments: 0
  Fox news--Washington, DC -- during an interview with John Harwood for CNBC at the White House on Tuesday, President Obama took aim at a fly that was bothering them during the conversation."Get out of here," the president told the pesky insect. When it didn't, he waited for the fly to' [...]
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  Posted: June 18, 2009, 2:41pm EDT
  by Robin

• Oregon's unemployment rate 12.4% depending on how you look at it.

  Number of comments: 2
  The Register Guard --Oregon's unemployment rate for May made it to the highest level since 1976 according to the Oregon employment Department on Monday, which places it in range to challenge Michigan's standing as #1.However, if marginally attached workers were included, Oregon's rate would be 14.2% according to the state [...]
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  Posted: June 16, 2009, 9:08am EDT
  by Robin

• "Our children still have nightmares, and they internalize our fear and the uncertainty the future holds."

  The Oregonian --The scene: June 12, 2007, federal regions raid the Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., a food processing plant and rounded up 167 illegal workers. Some of the workers were jailed of the federal Northwest detention center in Tacoma while others have been deported or voluntarily left the United [...]
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  Posted: June 13, 2009, 4:33pm EDT
  by Robin

• For those that think open borders are a good idea....

  Number of comments: 0
  BBC News--"The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global flu pandemic after holding an emergency meeting.It means the swine flu virus is spreading in at least two regions of the world with rising cases being seen in the UK, Australia, Japan and Chile.WHO chief Dr Margaret Chan said the" [...]
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  Posted: June 12, 2009, 3:08am EDT
  by Robin

• "I implore you... the state will go into chaos [like it's not already] without these bills."

  Number of comments: 0
  The Oregonian --Plans to raise Oregon's corporations and upper income earners taxes came to a screeching halt when Senate Democrat Mark Hass, D- Beaverton, would not give the 18th vote that was needed for three-fifths majority for the bill to pass."It's hard to separate what's real from the melodrama," said [...]
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  Posted: June 11, 2009, 5:42pm EDT
  by Robin

• Senate Bill 391 -- if you don't already own an alligator, the Oregon House says it will be illegal

  Number of comments: 2
  The Oregonian --In addition alligators, the Oregon House which is always good for a good laugh, passed on Wednesday Senate Bill 391 which would make owning crocodiles, lions and tigers including monkeys [House and Senate excluded] as a pet will become illegal.The bill passed 43-15 and is waiting Senate approval [...]
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  Posted: June 10, 2009, 7:52pm EDT
  by Robin

• Credit card delinquencies rise in order to cover daily living expenses

  Number of comments: 3
  Portland Business Journal--Trans Union, a credit reporting agency which creates quarterly reports from 27 million anonymous individual credit files, reported that in the first quarter bank card delinquencies which are defined as the ratio of borrowers who fall 90 days or more behind on their credit card payments increased by [...]
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  Posted: June 09, 2009, 3:29am EDT
  by Robin

• we need a toll bridge because the public does not have a sense about the gap in funding

  Number of comments: 0
  THE OREGONIAN --a $4.1 billion plan to replace the Interstate 5 bridge between Portland and Vancouver, known as the Columbia River Crossing project is launching a campaign to hear residents concerned about tolls which are needed to pay for a least one third of the project cost.however, the public doesn't' [...]
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  Posted: June 06, 2009, 9:15am EDT
  by Robin

• Actor David Carradine Dead at 72

  Number of comments: 1
  Fox News--David Carradine was found hanging Thursday in a Bangkok hotel room, where the actor was staying while shooting a movie called "Stretch". The body was discovered by a maid at 10am Thursday morning.Chuck Binder, Carradine's manager, said that the cause of death is "under investigation".David Carradine is survived by [...]
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  Posted: June 04, 2009, 9:24am EDT
  by Robin

• Oregon's "per mile" GPS mileage tax Why it is a bad idea

  Number of comments: 2
  Robin's commentary --source =Oregon Department of Transportationon the surface, the idea seems relatively simple and sound.under the current system, commonly known as the "the pay as you go system" meaning that you paid the fuel taxes at the time that you add fuel to your vehicle BEFORE you use the [...]
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  Posted: June 03, 2009, 8:30am EDT
  by Robin

• "Right pocket, Left pocket, it's all the same pair of pants... or is it?

  Number of comments: 0
  Robin's Commentary--I found a couple of headlines that I wanted to share about Oregon's budget problems...Press Release, May 18,2009 from the Oregon Legislative Assembly:Ways and Means Co-Chairs Release Plan to Bridge $4.2 Billion Budget Gap"The budget includes $2 billion in cuts from the essential budget level. The co-chairs budget also" [...]
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  Posted: June 02, 2009, 5:55am EDT
  by Robin

• Oregon House Bill 786-- a continuing series of how Oregon is dealing with high unemployment

  Number of comments: 2
  office of the speaker Dave HuntSenate Bill 786, the Oregon workplace religious freedom act, passed the Oregon House on a 38-21 vote on Friday. The act ensures that Oregon businesses will be able to practice their religion freely by requiring employers to provide accommodation for religious believes provided that it [...]
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  Posted: May 31, 2009, 6:37am EDT
  by Robin

• A simple solution is the equivalent to removing the cars off the road for 11 years

  Number of comments: 2
  Times online --Professor Steven Chu, a Nobel prize-winning physicist appointed by the Obama administrations energy Secretary, speaking at the opening of the St. James Palace Nobel Laureate Symposium, claims that it would be possible to cut carbon emissions to the equivalent of taking ALL the world's cars off the road [...]
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  Posted: May 29, 2009, 4:54am EDT
  by Robin

• Would we want this system?

  Number of comments: 0
  Camera grid to log number platesBy Richard BiltonSpecial correspondent, BBC News Closer to home, I wonder just who is behind all those cameras plastered around town anyways.Maybe they should be marked? [...]
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  Posted: May 27, 2009, 6:48pm EDT
  by Robin

• state lawmakers figure that you can afford an extra $121 a year in transportation costs

  Number of comments: 2
  KGW --State lawmakers unanimously approved a $300 million per year transportation package funded through the increase in gas tax, registration, title and license plate fees, which will mean that the typical Oregon household will pay an additional $121.50 per year or an average of $10 per month extra. "The costs" [...]
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  Posted: May 24, 2009, 1:01am EDT
  by Robin

• don't give that money back to the owners... give it to the state!

  Number of comments: 2
  The Oregonian --The Senate gave final passage to a bill that would require owners of self storage buildings who sell property left in a storage bins to recover past rent to give money from the sales of unclaimed store property to the state.Previously, owners of storage buildings have been allowed [...]
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  Posted: May 22, 2009, 8:08am EDT
  by Robin

• Oregon House OKs ban the sale of automatic dishwasher soap

  Number of comments: 2
  The Oregonian--Wednesday, the Legislature gave final approval to a bill similar to Washington state's bill to cut down algae promoting phosphorus after a debate that featured references to desperate housewives, detergent scofflaws and Oregon's runaway geese population.Senate Bill 631 bans the sale of residential dishwasher soaps with more than 0.5% [...]
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  Posted: May 21, 2009, 5:07am EDT
  by Robin

• Springfield forced to raise sewer and storm rates to by 14% EACH or face the rath of the Feds

  Number of comments: 1
  Register Guard--Springfield's City Council voted Monday night in favor of increasing local storm and waste water fees by 14%, this will raise local water rates $2.08 a month average, and local stormwater fees will increase by $1.21 per month average.The reason for the increase is from a hard deadline from [...]
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  Posted: May 19, 2009, 7:51pm EDT
  by Robin

• This is becoming the future of America

  Number of comments: 0
  Robin's Commentary--Job Announcement: Description: Auto Parts Delivery Driver Needed (Company name withheld)REQUIREMENTS:* 18 years or older* Valid license and an insurable driving record (no more than two moving violations within the past three years, and no drug or alcohol related violations within the past three years)PREFERRED: Fluency in English and [...]
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  Posted: May 17, 2009, 12:11pm EDT
  by Robin

• The federal government is spending $2.6 million to encourage China's prostitutes to drink less

  Number of comments: 1
  Fox newsThe National Institutes of Health is funding a 5-year study in China's Guangxi province to make sure prostitutes in a tourist town there are drinking responsibly.That's the goal of a five-year study, bankrolled by the National Institutes of Health, designed to help lower HIV infections among China's "female sex" [...]
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  Posted: May 16, 2009, 10:53am EDT
  by Robin

• Governor Ted "tax-and-gouge-me" on the current economic situation

  Number of comments: 0
  Sleepy Ted "tax-and-gouge-me": "...there is no escaping the fact that we have lost thousands of manufacturing jobs – and some of these jobs are not coming back. " Governor Ted Kulongoski governor's websiteOregon Governor sleepy Ted "tax-and-gouge-me" Kulongoski was speaking at the city club of Portland May 15, 2009 about [...]
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  Posted: May 16, 2009, 10:34am EDT
  by Robin

• Crossing the Harlow road round-about -- Don't walk, RUN!

  Number of comments: 1
  Register GuardIf you think that driving round that roundabout at Hayden Bridge and Pioneer Park way, try walking across it, and despite the fact that it is a law that vehicles must stop for pedestrians entering the street, some people are finding it very difficult.Now, Dennis Shine, 75,a retired community [...]
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  Posted: May 12, 2009, 4:55am EDT
  by Robin

• House Bill 2186 ...regulations to reduce aerodynamic draft on heavy-duty trucks ...

  Number of comments: 7
  The OregonianGovernor Ted tax-and-gouge-me, The Oregon League of Conservation Voters and other environmental groups considered it a significant win on the passing of House Bill 2186 by 32-28 which would direct the state Department of environmental quality to adopt requirements to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by setting low carbon fuel [...]
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  Posted: May 11, 2009, 5:30am EDT
  by Robin

• QUIT SPENDING! You're ruining the environment! Says ...

  Number of comments: 6
  QUIT SPENDING! You're ruining the environment! Says KulongoskiNew York TimesOregon Governor Ted "tax-and-gouge-me" Kulongoski believes that Americans should scale back their consumerism because he feels that it's hurting the environment. “There’s a lifestyle issue involved in this, about our penchant for consumerism and consumption,” he said, while discussing his support' [...]
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  Posted: May 08, 2009, 5:15am EDT
  by Robin

• a lender controlled shutdown device for your car as a requirement for your car loan...

  Number of comments: 1
  ABC newsElliot Munoz of St. Louis, Mo. knows that he better not be late on his car payment, or his car will not run thanks to a device that has been installed in his vehicle that will remind him that his monthly payment is due. If he is late on [...]
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  Posted: May 07, 2009, 5:24am EDT
  by Robin

• Dom DeLuise died at the age of 75

  Number of comments: 2
  Actor and comedian Dom DeLuise, who starred in films including Blazing Saddles and Cannonball Run, has died at the age of 75 in his sleep at a hospital in Los Angeles on Monday night following a long illness [...]
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  Posted: May 05, 2009, 6:29pm EDT
  by Robin

• businesses: welcome to Oregon... not!

  Number of comments: 1
  House Business and Labor Committee debated HB 2429 a bill that would force businesses operating under Oregon's enterprise zone program to pay higher prevailing wages on privately financed projects.Representative Kevin Cameron of Salem warned that the bill would send a message that Oregon is closed for business, in response, Representative [...]
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  Posted: May 03, 2009, 12:26pm EDT
  by Robin

• Hey guess what... Another Fee to drive your car

  Number of comments: 1
  The OregonianA proposal by Gov. Ted "Tax-and-Gouge-me" to raise $3oo million a year for high-ways, bridge and mass transit would come from a mix of higher vehicle fees, registration and titles fees and a higher state gas tax.The proposal would also include an additional Portland fee, which approved would allow [...]
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  Posted: April 29, 2009, 5:18pm EDT
  by Robin

• Government: answer to the economy... start a commission

  Number of comments: 0
  The New York Times --Two amendments, both which would create a special commission to dive into the roots of the economic collapse and create a select committee to investigate the causes of the nation's financial crisis. “Today’s vote by the Senate is major progress on my effort to get to [...]
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  Posted: April 28, 2009, 8:33pm EDT
  by Robin

• The saga continues...

  Number of comments: 1
  Press release -- Senator Ted FerrioliRepresentative Bruce Hanna Democratic leaders have terminated several bills that would have created tens of thousands of jobs and put dollars back into the economy, however, they missed the deadline for the 2009 session. “As thousands of Oregonians lose their jobs, Democratic leaders have given [...]
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  Posted: April 25, 2009, 4:17pm EDT
  by Robin

• Oregon is proud to be the worst unemployment in the nation... because Oregon is growing too fast

  Number of comments: 0
  The Portland Tribune--"It wasn't supposed to happen again." Referring that Oregon isn't supposed to be the second highest unemployment in the nation at 12.1% [Lane County 13.2%] "we are supposed to have on the highest among large US cities." Elected and business leaders after the 1980 recession decided that the [...]
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  Posted: April 24, 2009, 11:26am EDT
  by Robin

• Springfield Gateway Mall files for Chapter 11 protection

  Number of comments: 1
  The Register GuardChicago-based General Growth Properties which is the nation's second-largest shopping mall company, to include The Springfield Gateway Mall, Pioneer Place in Portland, Bailey Hills Village in West Eugene, is seeking Chapter 11 protection from its creditors across the country for 158 of its 200 shopping centers that it [...]
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  Posted: April 17, 2009, 12:30pm EDT
  by Robin

• Tea Party - I'll bet they thought it was cute

  Number of comments: 0
  The OregonianThe Salem tea party, an estimated 3200 people turned out for the event to protest everything from increased taxes to illegal aliens with signs and guest speakers, to include Sen. Jason Atkinson, who also announced that he would be running for governor again pointed out at the rally that [...]
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  Posted: April 16, 2009, 4:24am EDT
  by Robin

• Congratulations,we made it!Oregon is #1

  Number of comments: 1
  Were #1... (until Michigan checks in) in unemployment at 12.1%Robin's Commentary --I would like to send out congratulations to Governor Ted tax-and-gouge-me Kulongoski, the Oregon Legislature's, and the local governments for making us what we are today...broke!I can rest comfortably in the fact that with the addition of new bike [...]
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  Posted: April 15, 2009, 8:54am EDT
  by Robin

• If an employer hire someone that is illegal, should that be grounds for holding an employer harmless if the employee gets hurt?

  Number of comments: 1
  TC Palm --Victor Leon, 26, who came to United States seven years ago was paralyzed three years ago when he fell from a three-story building in Palm city and is suing Jupiter-based Altec Roofing for Worker's Compensation benefits to help pay his $500,000 medical bill.Victor and his brother Ivan are [...]
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  Posted: April 11, 2009, 11:33am EDT
  by Robin

• I don't normally post a comment made on other blogs...

  Number of comments: 1
  Robin's CommentaryNormally I don't post comments on this blog made on other blogs, however I thought I would share a response to a post on "Daniel's political musings"If I disagree with you it's because you are wrongWednesday, April 08, 2009Obama: laws don't matterObama to Push Immigration Bill Despite the RisksWhile [...]
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  Posted: April 09, 2009, 9:30am EDT
  by Robin

• LCC eager to spend $8 million from stimulus package-- [but have they learned how to manage their budget?]

  Number of comments: 0
  Register guard--At Lane Community College, facilities director Willis and his staff have been working in overdrive mode getting ready to set loose $8 million worth of infrastructure and deferred maintenance work.However, the state wants the stimulus project started by the end of the month,The college has engineering and architectural firms [...]
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  Posted: April 07, 2009, 11:27am EDT
  by Robin

• "... the public hasn't come to grips yet with the financial havoc still to come if the recession digs even deeper"

  Number of comments: 1
  The OregonianWhere's Ted?That is some of the sharp criticism from Democrats as well as Republicans in the height of the recession. The feeling is that Kulongoski is hiding when he should actually be out on the stump sharing his plans on how he intends to lead the state through a [...]
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  Posted: April 06, 2009, 1:09pm EDT
  by Robin

• Recession? What recession

  Number of comments: 1
  The OlympianOlympia's new $35.6 million City Hall would like to add 10 bronze sculptures which is meant to represent speaking bubbles like those used in comic strips. The "bubbles" which then about 2 feet tall would cost $180,000.The city requires that 1% of the cost of major construction projects be [...]
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  Posted: April 05, 2009, 10:56am EDT
  by Robin

• It's my money and I want it now!

  Number of comments: 0
  Statesman Journal April 4, 2009 -- Portland Tribune October 15, 2008The State of Oregon has settled a suit with truck manufacturer Freightliner after a German truck manufacturer, MAN AG was awarded more than $850 million by a 12 man jury. In addition Freightliner pay a pre-existing judgment, the jury awarded [...]
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  Posted: April 04, 2009, 2:42pm EDT
  by Robin

• What would you do if this happened to you?

  Number of comments: 2
  The Register GuardResidents facing Elmira Road and Maple Street in West Eugene may be on the hook to pay approximately $1.2 million in road repair.The project would cost the city $3.29 million and would require more than 120 property owners who live along those roads to pay a portion of [...]
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  Posted: April 03, 2009, 10:35pm EDT
  by Robin

• Doctor... I need to renew my prescription for CIGARETTES?

  Number of comments: 0
  Statesman JournalPortland Rep. Mitch Greenlick as an idea... since some cigarettes contain nicotine which is and addictive drug,then we should do with cigarettes as we did with over-the-counter drugs to control the use of pseudoephedrine, make them available by prescription only."I think this would essentially wipe out smoking in its" [...]
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  Posted: April 01, 2009, 10:36am EDT
  by Robin

• unwillingly contributing to the bank bailouts...

  Number of comments: 2
  Robin's commentary --How many different ways as a taxpayer is there for us to help bail out the banks?one method is a stimulus packages, and another method is a little closer to home.the latter I found out the other day.Imagine my shock when I opened up my credit card statement [...]
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  Posted: March 29, 2009, 12:32am EDT
  by Robin

• Want to bet Oregon will be next?

  Number of comments: 1
  California planing to regulate the color of your carCalifornia environmental protection agency--Normally I don't comment on what other states are doing, however, when I saw this article I could not resist.in 2006, California adopted the California Global Warming Solutions Act, also known as AB 32. This law created a comprehensive,' [...]
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  Posted: March 26, 2009, 5:16pm EDT
  by Robin

• Supreme Court: "does it matter whether someone using a phony ID knows that belongs to someone else?"

  Number of comments: 2
  Fox News Ignacio Carlos Flores-Figueroa, an illegal alien from Mexico, made what he calls a bad decision. Everything was okay until his employer got suspicious and called in the authorities when Flores-Figueroa, who was working under an assumed name for six years decided to exchange ONE set of phony identification [...]
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  Posted: March 20, 2009, 10:22am EDT
  by Robin

• bicycles may be allowed to not stop at controlled intersections

  Number of comments: 3
  Oregon LegislatureHouse Bill 2690 which is sponsored by Representatives BAILEY, Senators ATKINSON, PROZANSKI, Representatives CANNON, DEMBROW, GALIZIO, J SMITH (at the request of Bicycle Transportation Alliance)..."would permit persons operating a bicycle to enter an intersection with specified traffic control devices without stopping, provided that person operating bicycle slows to safe" [...]
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  Posted: March 18, 2009, 8:13am EDT
  by Robin