google/civil_comments · Datasets at Hugging Face

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Since RGs launch of the new Civil system I do find myself reading comments more and encountering ideas that I don't share. That's a good thing! I take High's point. Anonymity is an important option and I would not want to see a rule requiring the use of real names. That said, I wish more people felt comfortable using their real names. Knowing more about the speaker helps add context and also encourages a continuation of the conversation offline.	0	0	0	0	0	0
I wonder why Bob moved to Springfield in the 1990s. Maybe he should return to where he came from. He can't even handle a part-time job?	0.2	0	0	0.2	0	0
The anonymous tip likely came from someone working for LTD.	0	0	0	0	0	0
This headline and story are messed up. Highway 126 is the freeway through Springfield. The person was crossing the freeway when he was struck. Main Street is a couple miles south of the freeway, and no one was killed there Sunday.	0	0	0	0	0	0
The Haynes do not understand that there are two buildings on the Block between 7th and 8the and Oak and Pearl. The city rents space in the County's Public Service Building (PSB) that has an open floor plan and is impossible to secure to court standards. The Court House is the four story building on the Oak Street side. It is overflowing to the point that the jury assembly room is in the basement of the PSB. There is no direct ADA approved access between the two buildings so juries have to walked outside and back in to the security screening area. The law library is also located in the basement of the PSB. The real concern with the Court House is safety and security. What folks don't see is the narrow (two folks can't walk side by side) hallways that are where inmates are moved to the court rooms that are also the same hallways judges and court staff have to use. The court rooms on the south side of the building require inmates to be walked across the waiting area past victims.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Dorms...5 dorms...300 beds per dorm...divided up by type of problems/issues etc.,	0	0	0	0	0	0
"Every worker deserves a living wage, and that starts somewhere around $15 per hour" Well Joshua, if you're going to force employers to pay these kind of starting wages, then all of us who have been in the workforce for years and who have paid our dues working our way up deserve an immediate large raise. It's not right that we be punished by being left out and only making a few more dollars an hour than these starting jobs. Once we do get our large raises, the cost of living will jump to compensate and then we will all be right back where we started from.	0	0	0	0	0	0
I agree with Carl that the attacks on Hillary ARE NOT rational. She has a pretty progressive record,ESPECIALLY compared to ANY Republican candidates. The fact that all too many "Bernie" supporters say they may NOT ONLY NOT vote for Hillary if she is the Democratic nominee, but may actually vote FOR THE REPUBLICAN (Trump or Cruz) is BEYOND Appolling!! The far left can be every bit as "mentally unbalanced" as the far right, unfortunately.	0.3	0	0	0.3	0	0
"Takes broad effort"? Kitty had to do something?	0	0	0	0	0	0
My introduction to Iannarone was her vague, jargon-laced plans (or non-plans) to end homelessness. Quite frankly, her remarks were incoherent. What the heck does this mean: "we should expressly look for mutually beneficial scenarios whereby the human presence has the capacity to enhance the habitat rather than framing it as an either/or proposition. " Mind you, this was her response to Brentwood-Darlington's concerns about meth use and human waste on the Springwater Corridor. In another forum on homelessness,, the Oregonian noted that she talked about "breaking down silos" instead of anything specific. Now she sets a deadline and then blows it. C'mon now. This from someone who screwed up her taxes over a course of years. Her base of support seems to be Nancy Hales and a bunch of active transportation activists who dislike Wheeler for his business ties and dislike Bailey for the CRC. She will clearly be stuck in the single digits- why fund her campaign?	0	0	0	0	0	0
"He said he begs on street corners to buy food, and will simply go to Eugene to panhandle if Springfield bans it." Well duh.	0.111111	0	0	0.111111	0	0
Me? I have a very specific view of what is important and what is less important. In my world view, injuries to another person's body are top crimes. Murder is at the top and I wouldn't oppose capital punishment for premeditated murder. Murder itself comes in various types, premeditated, unintended in a fight, etc. Murder generally is worst and lengthy sentences are appropriate to prevent it. Injury, especially with permanent consequence is next and warrants five year type sentences and the high cost they entail. Simple property crimes are actually pretty inconsequential. I'd set sentences at 6 months or so for a $915 bank robbery. If serious physical assault requiring real medical treatment had occurred, then it would be the physical injury charge that would lead. I tend to judge the "crime" by its true consequence rather than its transient emotional irritation. $915 is just not such a big deal and simple property crimes warrant at most 10x the loss in public cost.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Over the post few years, I've worked with most of the councilors at one time or another. Mike Clark and George Brown are the two standouts for digging in and knowing the facts, as well as working for their ward's constituents. I've disagreed with both of them on a number of issues, but they always did more than just listen; they gave serious consideration to the facts and arguments presented. We know very little about Lucy Vinis, other than that she appears not to have any experience being an _elected_ official. To me, it is quite clear that she was recruited by Piercy, Alan Zelenka and Claire Syrett; and the three of them will control Vinis every move as a "proxy" for Piercy. Mike, on the other hand has a superb and consistent record of supporting neighborhood residents and neighborhood livability. He's also independent and won't get in bed with the City Manager and his development buddies. I think Mike would be a darn good mayor who'd fairly represent folks across the spectrum.	0.2	0	0.3	0.2	0.1	0
Tim-tim: You are so right. Poverty is ugly!!! Panhandlers are unsightly!! It would take considerable effort and considerable resources to address the many issues which lead to poverty and homelessness. Those panhandlers are a "high profile" reminder that such issues do, in fact, exist "right her in 'merica". Forget about programs and services which might actually help people out of homelessness and poverty. Instead, let's take actions which hide problems so we don't have to see them. Expert on homelessness.... No, but I do know people are homeless for a multitude of different reasons and helping them will take addressing those many different causes. I fear that we as a community, both locally and nationally, are unwilling to face that challenge. Thanks for your post, I think you've highlighted the core issue. regards, Gary	0	0	0	0	0	0
Hales' campsites will become permanent, and Portland will become the first city in the US to have favellas.	0	0	0	0	0	0
This couple is just milking this....the city should go in an condemn it honestly. This says it all right here... “They just try to give you the bottom and not fix you,” he said. “LTD has a lot of money.”	0.8	0	0.5	0.3	0	0.3
Hugh, civil isn't about what you say, but rather how you say it. "He's a nincompoop for tricking my country into war" is not civil. "He tricked my country into war" is civil. Aside from being not civil, assigning the nincompoopery is also useless, not related to the issue, and lowers your credibility anyhow. Why add it? We can be brutally honest and clear as crystal and as opinionated as Michael Moore's movie and still be civil. Just stick to the issues and leave out the personal bad mouthing. Focus on the issue, idea, opinion, or lie, not on the person who wrote it. Disagree with the alleged facts if you do. Say why. Explain. I haven't seen that movie. Is it uncivil? Or just controversial, opinionated, and unpleasant. What would make it uncivil would be the tone, the language used, the style of the arguments, not the actual content.	0.3	0	0	0.3	0	0
Since when is a bank robbery a "simple property crime"? SMH! I have a good friend who went through a robbery as a bank teller and subsequently went through lots of "real medical treatment" for the emotional trauma it caused. How would you feel if the person who suffers nightmares and fears being alone was your family member?	0	0	0	0	0	0
Pan(?)handling- http://members.efn.org/~hkrieger/5sp25_07.jpg from the series, "Springfield Thru the Mill", http://members.efn.org/~hkrieger/springfield.htm	0	0	0	0	0	0
Romain is most correct as the City is stating it will spend this gasoline tax monies on projects other than road repair and maintenance, which is largely against the Oregon Constitution, Article IX, section 3a. Moreover, we learn just this week yet another bad deal the Portland City Hall rushed quietly passed the public, wasting $15 million cleaning up toxic wastes left behind by private concerns who also received low priced real estate from the City. Commissioner Fish has "apologized" for this transgression, and then a month ago the City auditor raked the City Council over the coals for handing out grant monies without a transparent process. This City Council and the ones before it are routinely corrupt and waste our scarce public resources. No on any new tax measures.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Kudos for covering this. I think evidence deserves a bigger role than it has played so far in Portland housing policy discussion.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Well, I would say that the severity of their reactions comes from a failure of the bank to provide adequate training as to proper procedure and response. Since human life is far more valuable than a thousand dollars, tellers should cooperate and be taught non-provoking responses. Banks should organize procedures so that minimal cash is available. If a teller was injured, then the injury crime should lead. We would be better off if we organize punishment so as to escalate with negative consequence. Give a robber 5 years for taking a little cash, there is little incentive not to injure bank personnel since punishment will not escalate much. I am sorry, but we as a society have to realize the difference between being emotionally distressed on a temporary basis and serious physical harm. To fail to recognize the difference in sentences means perps will have little or no motivation to refrain from real permanent physical assault including murder.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Comrade, you must have liked Jonah Goldberg's column in the R-G this morning, about what he calls Obama's "Legacy of Polarization." He says "Obama has always done his best to demonize and marginalize his opponents." He brings up the Republican promise not to approve anybody the president nominates for the Supreme Court and suggests "Obama could prevent all this strife. He could say that he will leave this appointment up to his successor." That's the equivalent of blaming somebody being bullied for not giving the bully the lunch money. My point – which I hope is obvious – is that I am as dismayed to read Goldberg as you presumably are to read Krugman. Would you have them stop printing this Goldberg guy too, or is he okay to you?	0	0	0	0	0	0
Why don't all these militia types just join the US Army?	0	0	0	0	0	0
It has been shown that shelters can be managed up to about 100 people and then it becomes too many people in one cramped space. If people and their families can hardly make it through a two week holiday period all crammed into one house, how do you expect 300 strangers with real struggles to get along for an undetermined amount of time in a dorm setting? There are a number of hurdles that come with locating and running shelters. Even with the declared emergency, finding places where people don't protest shelters being located is a challenge. Then you have to find people to run it, kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities. Provide housing and employment services and treatment or management of their barriers to housing/employment. If only it was so easy as 5 dorms with 300 beds per dorm.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Peter, you write: "In my opinion, interpretation is permissible only when the original intent of the clause is not discernable. Otherwise adherence to the original intent is required." And in mine too. I agree with you completely on that. I think every member of SCOTUS does too.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Being civil follows from respect for our fellows. We in this country have very low respect for our fellows. We are comfortable in locking up a higher percentage of our population than any other civilized country in cages. We have no problem with that because we view fellow citizens as disposable and if they irritate us we call them "pond scum." Being civil stems from respect for the value of others. How do we foster respect for fellow citizens and desire to promote their well being? Perhaps, the media must lead the way. But not only in terms of comments, but in terms of news coverage. Rather than reporting on "bad" folks and printing mug shots, the media could do coverage of supposedly bad folks and show their essential humanity, those that depend on them, the good they have done. Reading the media, one senses that there are good and bad. Naturally, the take home message to all is I am good and they are bad. Relegate to pond scum once, legitimize such relegation generally.	0.2	0	0	0.2	0	0
This is probably the best post (from my perspective) I've seen from This Is Your Pilot Speaking. Keep it up.	0	0	0	0	0	0
"This is a safety and traffic flow issue" and has nothing to do with panhandling. Such an ingenuous comment is an insult to one's intelligence. Total bans on panhalding have been declared unconstitutional in cities across the nation. However, since a large portion of donations come from drivers and passengers, some communities, now including Springfield, are seeking to "dry up" that donation stream and, thereby, attack streetcorner panhandling. Asserting that those efforts, instead, address "traffic safety and traffic flow" problems is simply applying a very thin veneer to, hopefully, avoid the Constitutional issues faced by an open prohibition on panhandling. Of course the public officials proposing such laws can't admit that. Of course, citizens who support such laws can't openly admit that. Instead, we're all supposed to act like the emperior is wearing a beautiful new outfit. We know, of course, he "has no clothes" ...but it's considered "poor taste" to mention it.....	0	0	0	0	0	0
Josh, You must be joshing! And then there's that word "deserve" again. By what logic or evidence does every worker "deserve" a $15.00 per hour wage? Some workers "deserve" to be fired because they lack the traits necessary to keep their jobs and fulfill their part of the labor/owner/management contract. Until these sorts can resolve their problems that lead to their chronic unemployment, they "deserve" nothing beyond perhaps a hand up in becoming functional employees.	0	0	0	0	0	0
They wouldn't last a week.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Whenever I rent something, I am held financially accountable for any damage. If I am shopping, the standard of "you break it, you buy it" applies. I hope that the government will bill the occupiers for damages and pursue collection.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Being aware of social sensitivity and correctness, the trenches were marked “Gender Neutral”.	0	0	0	0	0	0
It seems to me, especially in this short session, that one party politics by the Democrats is an example of abuse. Honestly, emergency clauses used with abandon to avoid letting the citizens of Oregon have a part in determining what legislation becomes or doesn't become law. What do you call that?	0	0	0	0	0	0
Hell has frozen over- I agree with BJ. Evidence should trump ideology. This study looks sound to me. But it doesn't mean that Portland's approach to adding housing is good. We should still be very suspicious of Portland development right now- some of the new neighborhoods have major livability problems. The Alphabet neighborhood could experience employed-person flight if the crime doesn't get better. There is quite the redistribution of wealth going on- renters are losing. My thoughts lately: we should also look at who owns multi-family buildings and whether the fact that buildings are being "flipped" is raising rents. Where is all that extra rent money going? Who is benefiting from the current set of tax laws as those laws pertain to real estate? Follow the money. BTW- housing supply can also include smaller, sfh homes that are well-sited. Ran across a very dense new development two stories tall with lovely landscaping and privacy. Awesome.	0	0	0	0	0	0
If the GOP controls all three branches of government, what do you expect to happen? And if they don't win the WH, do you really expect them to cooperate? They've been throwing a long temper tantrum since Obama was elected, and they will continue. Right now they are pouting (and obstructing) because of an unexpected development. Not one of the Republican candidates seems capable of handling the enormous challenges of governing, and their spoiled brats performance helps keep the rest of us from asking embarrassing questions.	0.166667	0	0.166667	0	0	0.166667
Maybe they had renters insurance.	0	0	0	0	0	0
I keep waiting to hear about our state-wide or nation-wide plan to alleviate homelessness, especially whenever someone brings up the budget required to truly help. The idea that Portland can do this alone, patching the leaks caused by our nation's economic priorities, is idiotic. Regarding the Springwater Corridor: I'd love to see the primary source for the quote "the city acknowledges it still needs to figure out a separate policy for addressing the homeless camping along the Springwater Corridor". I'm not sure the city needs something separate. If the city decides that camping isn't allowed in that particular spot it can have the people move to a place where camping is permitted, correct? Also, given that camps have to follow the policies laid out by the city and will be monitored by a camp host, I figure the campers will have to adhere to the rules or move along. This presumes the city will enforce the codes it's establishing, not necessarily a safe assumption.	0.6	0	0.1	0.6	0	0
Great read. For anyone who doesn't own Poolside, go out and buy it. It is a great album. ESPECIALLY on vinyl. The vinyl was incredibly well-mixed and sounds superb.	0	0	0	0	0	0
I mostly agree, though I think the terrorization of the bank teller has to be taken into consideration in this instance. It seems like a shorter prison term followed by monitored, mandatory community service would be more appropriate. In addition to the costs, 5 years in jail with other criminals will likely only harden this guy, despite his assertions that he's "headed in the right direction."	0	0	0	0	0	0
It seems the tactics being used by Republicans are designed to reduce the number of bills that will be passed during this short legislative session. It makes sense in light of the abuse to which the Democrats are guilty in deviating from the agreement to address only budget tune-ups and acting on issues that are actually urgent in the 35 day session. What the Democrats are doing is the epitome of the meaning of "progressive": Give them an inch and they'll take the whole 100 yards to the end zone...never mind the dirty tactics used to get there. That's not to say that if Republicans were in power, that they wouldn't do something similar; conjecture for which we have no proof. However, they aren't in power now and it is not the Republicans who are being abusive.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Easy to criticize Republicans when you're a Democrat. This editorial has no gravitas.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Here's the bottom line: When appointed, Scalia was a young judicial conservative. From the GOP perspective, the best Obama is likely to nominate is an old moderate. That is just not going to cut it. The GOP wants Scalia replaced with a conservative in the mold of Scalia himself. No amount of whining by this op edit writer or any other is going to change that. The Republican majority in the Senate may be perishable, but it has got to now count for something.	0	0	0	0	0	0
"Explosives" is a vague term, which is here being used in a highly calculated, sensationalist, and emotionally provocative way. Dollars to donuts, the Feds are showboating. Ammunition could be called "explosives." A campstove fuel canister is an "explosive." Bottles of hairspray or high-proof liquors, are "explosives." They use such wiggly words. I highly doubt there are any booby traps or IEDs. I do think the Feds have every incentive to hype to the max and stretch the truth, and they have a long, sordid track record of doing so.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Guaranteed PPS will claim that this student's comments are the determining factor as to whether the Coach violated law or policy. With PPS, they tend to turn employment issues into popularity contests and wash their hands of it.	0	0	0	0	0	0
My knee jerk reaction to Steve Novick supporting Sanders is "Hello Hillary!"	0	0	0	0	0	0
actually I think Cliven is the one who wishes he had some sort of renter's insurance..	0	0	0	0	0	0
Thanks for this story. I hope it will help us all to have more compassion for people who are forced to live out-of-doors. I ride my bike on the local bicycle paths, and have watched with dismay as the homeless population has grown over the years. I am in favor of the new city policy to allow camping, because I think it is inhumane than shooing them from place to place. The homeless situation is here to stay, and we need to figure out a way to deal with it.	0	0	0	0	0	0
If you are that determined to give money to someone on a street corner holding a sign, park your car, get out, walk up to that person, introduce yourself, hand him or her whatever amount suits you, bid him or her a good day, walk back to your car, get in and drive away. Please, let's stop pretending that treating panhandlers like a Jersey Turnpike toll booth is anything more than an exercise in making the giver feel good.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Although I have been a supporter of Inclusionary Zoning I cannot support SB 1533 unless it includes the following amendment: Means Tested Inclusionary Housing that qualifies as PUBLIC HOUSING, i.e. a class of housing defined as, Means Test (<=80%MFI) + Government Subsidy (any government any type) + rental agreement, is not allowed in any neighborhood that already contains 15% or more PUBLIC HOUSING clients. The housing policy of the city of Portland - Targeted, UNLIMITED Neighborhood Concentration of PUBLIC HOUSING - allows it to load any neighborhood of its choosing with up to 100% PUBLIC HOUSING clients. This clearly violates the Fair Housing Act of 1968 as recently reaffirmed by the United States Supreme Court. As currently written, SB 1533 could inadvertently or intentionally exacerbate Portland’s disregard for the federal goal of more Equitable Distribution of Public Housing. Richard Ellmyer North Portland	0	0	0	0	0	0
There are two types of inclusionary zoning i.e. Market Rate Inclusionary Housing and Means Tested Inclusionary Housing. Market Rate Inclusionary Housing is built to be affordable to a specific economic constituency. However, it may be rented by anyone with the ability to pay. Means Tested Inclusionary Housing is built to be affordable to a specific economic constituency. However, only a range of buyers within a restricted MFI are eligible to participate. Only those at the top of that MFI range will find the property affordable. This class of housing is similar to Public Housing and in some cases may actually be Public Housing. The question perpetually arises with inclusionary zoning, Public Housing and other attempts at Affordable Housing, which is never answered: For WHOM are these units being built and what statistical data has been used to determine the need by neighborhood?	0	0	0	0	0	0
As a funny side note, I am not surprised about the neighbors calling the cops in Hales neighborhood. That strip of homes in particular has become a parking lot with the new MAX line and they are not happy. I know one house in particular puts out a kids at play yellow stand and garbage cans to discourage parking in front of their house. They get their hackles up pretty easy. (Not all, I do know some cool folks living there that take it with stride.) Then again if someone decided to camp on my little lawn strip I'd politely ask them to leave. Then turn on the sprinklers (I don't have pressure for a fire hose). Then plant cactus and lay out lava rock. Then again if it was WW I'd probably bring out beers and popcorn and chill with them for a bit.	0	0	0	0	0	0
It would be pretty nice if they just restore it to its former glory. Its sad that its became the way it is now. I think its sad it became the way it is and not many actually want to be fixed up as to 1950's. I think if they do that it would look nice and many people would enjoy it. Sometimes just a whole bunch of new needs to have something historical among them.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Joshua, why should the editors, who took the time to educate themselves and who likely worked stepping stone jobs to get where they are at, try to live on $9.25 and hour? Honestly, the market should dictate what minimum wages are, not government. Why should people of different skill levels get paid the same "minimum" wage? 16 year old Johnny who has never held a job before probably deserves $3.50 and hour while 20 year old Jenny who has several years work experience could be worth much more. I've said it before and I'll say it again... It would be nice if simply raising peoples wages by a few bucks an hour would end poverty but it won't. Change has to happen within families. Intact families with an emphasis on school, good money management and an appreciation for delayed gratification are key foundations to start. Be goal oriented, improve your skill set and you will earn much more than the minimum wage.	0	0	0	0	0	0
"Congress is now more polarized than at any time since Civil War Reconstruction." For that, a big shout out to the current occupant Barack Hussein Obama, posing as The Great Uniter. FLASHBACK***MANCHESTER, N.H., Aug. 14, 2007 -- Drawing a sharp contrast with Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, his main rival for the Democratic presidential nomination, Sen. Barack Obama said in an interview that he has the capacity she may lack to unify the country and move it out of what he called "ideological gridlock." In eight miserable years, Obama has done more damage to America than ten George W Bush's. And that doesn't even include the addition of $9 trillion to our national debt, more than nearly all presidents before him combined.	0	0	0	0	0	0
We know, of course, that people aren't going to take the steps you mention. They will roll down a window, hand out some change, a buck or two, maybe some pop or a can of food, etc..then, drive on when the light turns green. You, in your last sentence, dismiss helping others as merely a selfish exercise to make yourself "feel good." That's a rather sad, cynical view of mankind. If a person's values include altruism, including donations to organizations and individuals, is there something paticularly wrong with feeling good about acting on those values? If I value honesty, a clerk gives me change for a twenty when I presented a ten, and I tell him/her so and return that "extra" ten, am I just selfishly do so to make myself "feel better"? If as married person you're faithful to your spouse, are you being so just to make yourself "feel better" We all have values and honoring those values should make us "feel good." For many the charity of helping others represents such a value.	0.142857	0.142857	0	0	0	0
If you're asking candidates who are running, why aren't you asking all of them; for that matter why aren't they even allowed to participate in upcoming debates? David C. "The Ack" Ackerman, Philip "Sean" Davis, Bim Ditson, Steven Entwisle,Deborah Harris, Lewis E. "Lew" Humble, Sarah Iannarone, Trevor Manning, David Schor, Jessie Sponberg,	0	0	0	0	0	0
I'm very familiar with the research. I've spoken with many parents who are well aware of the risks of athletic competition and still allow their child to participate even after he or she has suffered a concussion while participating in football, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, hockey, wrestling, rodeo, etc. Instead of using the University of Oregon as your convenient whipping boy, why not call for a ban on football altogether along with the many other sports where there is an elevated risk of concussions, if you are truly that concerned about brain trauma?	0.142857	0	0	0.142857	0	0
Mr. McFadden, with all due respect, I can see why you think the feds are using terms that are " being used in a highly calculated, sensationalist, and emotionally provocative way." However, I'd say those 'occupiers' and their supporters started it (using word that are 'being used in a highly calculated, sensationalist, and emotionally provocative way') so perhaps they are getting a taste of their own medicine.	0.166667	0	0	0	0	0
Some people are so dumb that they will vote for Vinis just to find out what "etc." she will bring. Careful though. The impact-tentacles of the progressive movement can be long and very destructive.	0.61194	0	0.089552	0.61194	0	0
I cannot wait to see if pimping underage girls will result in a larger fine than declining to bake a cake for a gay wedding. It will provide insight into Avakian's priorities.	0.3	0	0	0.2	0.1	0.1
If they were trying to be provocative, they would have written "Investigators also found biowarfare materials" instead of "Investigators also found human feces in one of the trenches and spoiled food in the living quarters."	0	0	0	0	0	0
Labeling others with the intent to humiliate is what's uncivil ...... "homophobe", "bigot", "hatemonger", "climate change denier", "teabagger", "racist", "neocon", "right wing extremist", ad infinitum.	0.5	0	0	0.4	0.1	0
I agree with Mike. So that means the 30+ year old bank robber that got a total just under $1,000 for his dastardly deed shouldn't get 5 years in prison right?	0.3	0	0	0.3	0	0
It's nice to hear that all the candidates for mayor are being asked about the issue of homelessness. After many years of working at ShelterCare, it's clear to me that Lucy Vinis' depth of knowledge and capabilities to move us forward on this important issue will set her apart from the other candidates.	0	0	0	0	0	0
I remember reading an article a few weeks ago that started just the opposite, no explosives or booby traps.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Doing the honest or faithful thing is also known as doing the right thing. Handing money out a car window qualifies as neither; rather, it is an enabling exercise that is notable only for its convenience. Your commitment to drive-by philanthropy lasts only as long as it takes the light to change, and yes, whether you wish to admit it or not, there is a safety component involved. If you want your altruism to feel really good, take those extra steps to engage that person in need. Listen to his or her story instead of reflexively sharing yours first. Does a stranded motorist or an injured animal along a highway get what's most convenient for you in the moment as a response, or do you do more? Why should someone down on their luck deserve anything less?	0	0	0	0	0	0
The original declaration was "FBI officials said Friday they haven't found any rigged explosives or booby traps at the national wildlife refuge in Oregon that had been seized by an armed group." so the difference appears to be in the "rigged" part. But I also think they are currently using "explosives" as a broad term here.	0	0	0	0	0	0
There was a little sign, "About Paiute artifacts we care naught, so both genders come and take a squat."	0.166667	0	0	0	0	0.166667
Great letter To any one with a working brain and pays taxes it should be so obvious that tax and spend politicians and bureaucrats have no clue to conditions in the real world. Peter Courtney Phil Barnhart and Nancy Nathanson have been sitting in Salem so long they are nothing but drones for special interest groups and BIGGER government Just adding up the dollars from recent RG articles for new taxes and fees which these 3 have been promoting comes to about 500 million in new tax and fee spending Recalls for these 3 would be a great start. The problem would be getting the petitions past the government. On anything remotely related to recalling one of their buddies getting the state to approve the signature's is very difficult I just noticed that Jay Bozievich in letter below says the Haynes don't understand typical politicians tripe Voters need to require body cams on all politicians after all government is transparent right He probably dreams of The Jay Bozievich Justice Building	0	0	0	0	0	0
Thank you for proving you don't know what the word "communist" means. Finicum didn't go to the toilet without his guns. He BRAGGED about wanting to die ... and talked about how his criminal actions meant he was no longer going to be making $100K/year taking in "foster children" and using them as slave labor on his "ranch". He wanted to die, which is why he reached for his gun TWICE when confronted. The only one trying to "grab land" here were the Bundy Bunch and their supporters. They can now "occupy" 8 x 10 pieces of federal property for the rest of their lives.	0	0	0	0	0	0
I would not overlook the possibility of the FBI planting evidence to bolster their case. Their investigation was overseen by themselves.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Perhaps, but as a wise person once told me "Two wrongs don't make a right."	0	0	0	0	0	0
Did the government bill the Wall St Occupiers? How about Occupy Eugene?	0	0	0	0	0	0
A few of them might have served. Most of them probably not.	0	0	0	0	0	0
The Portland Business Alliance is part of the reason that there is such a homeless problem. They have advocated for the landlords to raise the rent for years. They need to step up and work with the city and homeless advocates. Allowing people to sleep on sidewalks is not the best solution.	0	0	0	0	0	0
ETS events occur about every 14 months or so. We are now beginning the latest event which started around the winter solstice. Here's another good presentation on ETS: www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-Mspl1XYUE	0	0	0	0	0	0
They should change the law so that it's okay to hand food or clothing to the people on the street. I've been approached a couple of times by panhandlers wanting money in Winco parking lots after shopping. I didn't give them money, but they did accept the food I offered. I don't want to support anyone's drug or cigarette habit directly.	0	0	0	0	0	0
It's good to see them doing this well. I was one who didn't pick them to win 25 games all season. But, I'm still a fan, win or lose. They need to keep it up and make the playoffs. They're a small market team and it keeps the fans happy.	0	0	0	0	0	0
The city allowed the local Occupy group to move several times, until they took-over the Washington-Jefferson Park. The city didn't act and boot them out until there was a murder at the park. Then the taxpayer was stuck with the bill.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Thanks for letting us know; there is an expandable box at the top of the review box with a down-arrow. This gives you the article title and excerpt (unless the comment is a reply to another comment, in which case that comment is displayed in the box, instead of the article). It seems like a lot of people are missing this context; it is on the list of things to re-work! We also have a bookmarking feature on the way. Appreciate the feedback!	0	0	0	0	0	0
Oregon Democrats deliberately chose to overload the short legislative session to preclude a deep analysis of their proposed legislation. This round includes many gifts to their special interest lobbies, evidence by the $100,000 Gov. Brown received to fast-track the minimum wage legislation. The Oregon GOP is absolutely justified in using any delaying tactics at their disposal. This editorial is empty rhetoric. The short session was designed for emergencies that arose during the recession of 2009, not to push controversial bills through without due deliberation. This is a shameful abuse of power by Oregon Democrats, and they should be made to pay at the ballot box.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Clark has my vote. I've not been impressed with the direction that the Kitty Cabal has taken recently, eschewing sound management in favor of a progressive moonbat agenda that simultaneously fails to confront the city manager and his developer pals. Mike Clark will be a welcome change from the status quo. The city has lost my trust and will need strong, experienced leadership to win it back if they expect me to ever vote for another tax levy - period.	0	0	0	0	0	0
I hear there is at least one more Eugenian collecting signatures for a possible run. Personally, I am undecided who to vote for, or even if to vote in the mayoral primary. But I do believe that after 12 years of the same person as mayor, the election process needs to extend beyond May. I say "Let's extend the interview process." Very important job.	0	0	0	0	0	0
The possible desecration of artifacts really adds insult to injury in this case. This was not an effective way to communicate their point.	0	0	0	0	0	0
The balance between protecting privacy and giving law enforcement access to potentially criminal activity is really difficult to find. I wish I knew what the answer was.	0	0	0	0	0	0
I'd like to know where Bob came from, why he came to Lane County, and why he can't keep even keep a part-time job.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Those panhandlers are seeking that "handout," That's the purpose of panhaldling. Some folks do pass some money out the window. Some don't. That's a matter of choice. You comment addressing "encouraging" them involves finding a parking spot, going back to the individual and engaging them in a conversation. Most motorists are going somewhere and simply don't have the time to engage with every panhandler they see. Additionally, don't assume that every homeless and/or destitute individual wants to have a conversation with you. Your comparison to a stranded motorist or an injured animal is specious. I and, I guessing, you have altered my plans, called and postponed an engagement, etc. so I could help a stranded motorist.....very different thing. As I mentioned, if Springfield, Eugene or anyone else is truly interested in traffic safety, they should focus on enforcing those "no talking on cell phones and no texting" laws........rather than attacking panhandling.	0	0	0	0	0	0
This might be a great first step to making more comments sections useful.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Dave - if the 13 year old were gay or bisexual, Avakian would have imposed a big fine like the cake or the karaoke bar back when they filed the criminal case. I think avakians bias is already clear.	0.4	0	0.1	0.2	0.4	0
Of considerably more interest would be asking all of the presidential primary candidates their views on the Bundy family incursions into criminal and domestic terrorism behavior and the FBI and Justice departments very slow response enforcing the law in Nevada and Oregon. I have asked these candidates. So far no responses. Perhaps we can all put the question to them again when the Oregon primary rolls around.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Mr Obama doesn't practice what he preaches. As a Democratic Senator back in 2006, Mr Obama filibustered the nomination of Justice Alito and voted against the nomination of Justice Roberts. What a flaming hypocrite. Watch for the race card to come out on this one.	0.3	0	0.2	0.4	0.1	0
I read that same article. This is why I have no faith or belief in the federal government . Every department an agency have their own a political agenda and the people be darned.	0	0	0	0	0	0
its not the camping, its the mounds of garbage. I don't care if people sleep in tents but the kinds of campers all along waterfront and out on the trail are the very worst offenders and clearly didn't get the pack in pack out message. that's what the city seems to be tolerating. giant shit heaps along otherwise pretty corridors. if the city is going to allow camping it better give its garbage men a raise!!!	0.7	0.05	0.475	0.5375	0.0625	0.0125
We are really fun to hang out with.	0	0	0	0	0	0
The Occupy Eugene people were largely destitute - by choice or otherwise. The Bundy clan are not. I know Ammon has a nice fleet of trucks that we bought him.	0	0	0	0	0	0
It's the FBI's fault for not allowing the militia time to clean the place up.	0.166667	0	0	0	0	0
Preparations are also in order on a legislative level for Oregon. While public buildings are being assessed for risk, most private homes aren't. That's probably where most people will be if a near big one (8.0+) strikes. CA has a requirement that pre-1960 homes come with some type of earthquake assessment when they're sold. Here it's buyer beware. As houses are sold, an earthquake risk report should be required. The real estate industry will balk at this suggestion but it should be a priority for safety committees. Government can publicize the risk and offer educational workshops. Tax write offs and other incentives could help with remediation. In a more socialist country there would be brigades door knocking to publicize and offer help, paid by us and for us. It's our government, our economy and our safety that's at stake.	0	0	0	0	0	0
Mike: Perhaps not, but another saying goes, "Whats good for the goose, is good for the gander", the Bundys displayed an over riding sense of entitlement, any charges the government can charge them with, within the law, I sincerely hope they use. If for no other than to give those that attempt something likeminded, pause.	0	0	0	0	0	0
"I’d rather give money to panhandlers than to the police and politicians." This ordinance is designed so you can do both!	0	0	0	0	0	0

Since RGs launch of the new Civil system I do find myself reading comments more and encountering ideas that I don't share. That's a good thing! I take High's point. Anonymity is an important option and I would not want to see a rule requiring the use of real names. That said, I wish more people felt comfortable using their real names. Knowing more about the speaker helps add context and also encourages a continuation of the conversation offline.

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I wonder why Bob moved to Springfield in the 1990s. Maybe he should return to where he came from. He can't even handle a part-time job?

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The anonymous tip likely came from someone working for LTD.

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This headline and story are messed up. Highway 126 is the freeway through Springfield. The person was crossing the freeway when he was struck. Main Street is a couple miles south of the freeway, and no one was killed there Sunday.

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The Haynes do not understand that there are two buildings on the Block between 7th and 8the and Oak and Pearl. The city rents space in the County's Public Service Building (PSB) that has an open floor plan and is impossible to secure to court standards. The Court House is the four story building on the Oak Street side. It is overflowing to the point that the jury assembly room is in the basement of the PSB. There is no direct ADA approved access between the two buildings so juries have to walked outside and back in to the security screening area. The law library is also located in the basement of the PSB. The real concern with the Court House is safety and security. What folks don't see is the narrow (two folks can't walk side by side) hallways that are where inmates are moved to the court rooms that are also the same hallways judges and court staff have to use. The court rooms on the south side of the building require inmates to be walked across the waiting area past victims.

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Dorms...5 dorms...300 beds per dorm...divided up by type of problems/issues etc.,

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"Every worker deserves a living wage, and that starts somewhere around $15 per hour" Well Joshua, if you're going to force employers to pay these kind of starting wages, then all of us who have been in the workforce for years and who have paid our dues working our way up deserve an immediate large raise. It's not right that we be punished by being left out and only making a few more dollars an hour than these starting jobs. Once we do get our large raises, the cost of living will jump to compensate and then we will all be right back where we started from.

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I agree with Carl that the attacks on Hillary ARE NOT rational. She has a pretty progressive record,ESPECIALLY compared to ANY Republican candidates. The fact that all too many "Bernie" supporters say they may NOT ONLY NOT vote for Hillary if she is the Democratic nominee, but may actually vote FOR THE REPUBLICAN (Trump or Cruz) is BEYOND Appolling!! The far left can be every bit as "mentally unbalanced" as the far right, unfortunately.

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"Takes broad effort"? Kitty had to do something?

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My introduction to Iannarone was her vague, jargon-laced plans (or non-plans) to end homelessness. Quite frankly, her remarks were incoherent. What the heck does this mean: "we should expressly look for mutually beneficial scenarios whereby the human presence has the capacity to enhance the habitat rather than framing it as an either/or proposition. " Mind you, this was her response to Brentwood-Darlington's concerns about meth use and human waste on the Springwater Corridor. In another forum on homelessness,, the Oregonian noted that she talked about "breaking down silos" instead of anything specific. Now she sets a deadline and then blows it. C'mon now. This from someone who screwed up her taxes over a course of years. Her base of support seems to be Nancy Hales and a bunch of active transportation activists who dislike Wheeler for his business ties and dislike Bailey for the CRC. She will clearly be stuck in the single digits- why fund her campaign?

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"He said he begs on street corners to buy food, and will simply go to Eugene to panhandle if Springfield bans it." Well duh.

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Me? I have a very specific view of what is important and what is less important. In my world view, injuries to another person's body are top crimes. Murder is at the top and I wouldn't oppose capital punishment for premeditated murder. Murder itself comes in various types, premeditated, unintended in a fight, etc. Murder generally is worst and lengthy sentences are appropriate to prevent it. Injury, especially with permanent consequence is next and warrants five year type sentences and the high cost they entail. Simple property crimes are actually pretty inconsequential. I'd set sentences at 6 months or so for a $915 bank robbery. If serious physical assault requiring real medical treatment had occurred, then it would be the physical injury charge that would lead. I tend to judge the "crime" by its true consequence rather than its transient emotional irritation. $915 is just not such a big deal and simple property crimes warrant at most 10x the loss in public cost.

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Over the post few years, I've worked with most of the councilors at one time or another. Mike Clark and George Brown are the two standouts for digging in and knowing the facts, as well as working for their ward's constituents. I've disagreed with both of them on a number of issues, but they always did more than just listen; they gave serious consideration to the facts and arguments presented. We know very little about Lucy Vinis, other than that she appears not to have any experience being an _elected_ official. To me, it is quite clear that she was recruited by Piercy, Alan Zelenka and Claire Syrett; and the three of them will control Vinis every move as a "proxy" for Piercy. Mike, on the other hand has a superb and consistent record of supporting neighborhood residents and neighborhood livability. He's also independent and won't get in bed with the City Manager and his development buddies. I think Mike would be a darn good mayor who'd fairly represent folks across the spectrum.

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Tim-tim: You are so right. Poverty is ugly!!! Panhandlers are unsightly!! It would take considerable effort and considerable resources to address the many issues which lead to poverty and homelessness. Those panhandlers are a "high profile" reminder that such issues do, in fact, exist "right her in 'merica". Forget about programs and services which might actually help people out of homelessness and poverty. Instead, let's take actions which hide problems so we don't have to see them. Expert on homelessness.... No, but I do know people are homeless for a multitude of different reasons and helping them will take addressing those many different causes. I fear that we as a community, both locally and nationally, are unwilling to face that challenge. Thanks for your post, I think you've highlighted the core issue. regards, Gary

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Hales' campsites will become permanent, and Portland will become the first city in the US to have favellas.

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This couple is just milking this....the city should go in an condemn it honestly. This says it all right here... “They just try to give you the bottom and not fix you,” he said. “LTD has a lot of money.”

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Hugh, civil isn't about what you say, but rather how you say it. "He's a nincompoop for tricking my country into war" is not civil. "He tricked my country into war" is civil. Aside from being not civil, assigning the nincompoopery is also useless, not related to the issue, and lowers your credibility anyhow. Why add it? We can be brutally honest and clear as crystal and as opinionated as Michael Moore's movie and still be civil. Just stick to the issues and leave out the personal bad mouthing. Focus on the issue, idea, opinion, or lie, not on the person who wrote it. Disagree with the alleged facts if you do. Say why. Explain. I haven't seen that movie. Is it uncivil? Or just controversial, opinionated, and unpleasant. What would make it uncivil would be the tone, the language used, the style of the arguments, not the actual content.

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Since when is a bank robbery a "simple property crime"? SMH! I have a good friend who went through a robbery as a bank teller and subsequently went through lots of "real medical treatment" for the emotional trauma it caused. How would you feel if the person who suffers nightmares and fears being alone was your family member?

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Pan(?)handling- http://members.efn.org/~hkrieger/5sp25_07.jpg from the series, "Springfield Thru the Mill", http://members.efn.org/~hkrieger/springfield.htm

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Romain is most correct as the City is stating it will spend this gasoline tax monies on projects other than road repair and maintenance, which is largely against the Oregon Constitution, Article IX, section 3a. Moreover, we learn just this week yet another bad deal the Portland City Hall rushed quietly passed the public, wasting $15 million cleaning up toxic wastes left behind by private concerns who also received low priced real estate from the City. Commissioner Fish has "apologized" for this transgression, and then a month ago the City auditor raked the City Council over the coals for handing out grant monies without a transparent process. This City Council and the ones before it are routinely corrupt and waste our scarce public resources. No on any new tax measures.

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Kudos for covering this. I think evidence deserves a bigger role than it has played so far in Portland housing policy discussion.

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Well, I would say that the severity of their reactions comes from a failure of the bank to provide adequate training as to proper procedure and response. Since human life is far more valuable than a thousand dollars, tellers should cooperate and be taught non-provoking responses. Banks should organize procedures so that minimal cash is available. If a teller was injured, then the injury crime should lead. We would be better off if we organize punishment so as to escalate with negative consequence. Give a robber 5 years for taking a little cash, there is little incentive not to injure bank personnel since punishment will not escalate much. I am sorry, but we as a society have to realize the difference between being emotionally distressed on a temporary basis and serious physical harm. To fail to recognize the difference in sentences means perps will have little or no motivation to refrain from real permanent physical assault including murder.

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Comrade, you must have liked Jonah Goldberg's column in the R-G this morning, about what he calls Obama's "Legacy of Polarization." He says "Obama has always done his best to demonize and marginalize his opponents." He brings up the Republican promise not to approve anybody the president nominates for the Supreme Court and suggests "Obama could prevent all this strife. He could say that he will leave this appointment up to his successor." That's the equivalent of blaming somebody being bullied for not giving the bully the lunch money. My point – which I hope is obvious – is that I am as dismayed to read Goldberg as you presumably are to read Krugman. Would you have them stop printing this Goldberg guy too, or is he okay to you?

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Why don't all these militia types just join the US Army?

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It has been shown that shelters can be managed up to about 100 people and then it becomes too many people in one cramped space. If people and their families can hardly make it through a two week holiday period all crammed into one house, how do you expect 300 strangers with real struggles to get along for an undetermined amount of time in a dorm setting? There are a number of hurdles that come with locating and running shelters. Even with the declared emergency, finding places where people don't protest shelters being located is a challenge. Then you have to find people to run it, kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities. Provide housing and employment services and treatment or management of their barriers to housing/employment. If only it was so easy as 5 dorms with 300 beds per dorm.

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Peter, you write: "In my opinion, interpretation is permissible only when the original intent of the clause is not discernable. Otherwise adherence to the original intent is required." And in mine too. I agree with you completely on that. I think every member of SCOTUS does too.

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Being civil follows from respect for our fellows. We in this country have very low respect for our fellows. We are comfortable in locking up a higher percentage of our population than any other civilized country in cages. We have no problem with that because we view fellow citizens as disposable and if they irritate us we call them "pond scum." Being civil stems from respect for the value of others. How do we foster respect for fellow citizens and desire to promote their well being? Perhaps, the media must lead the way. But not only in terms of comments, but in terms of news coverage. Rather than reporting on "bad" folks and printing mug shots, the media could do coverage of supposedly bad folks and show their essential humanity, those that depend on them, the good they have done. Reading the media, one senses that there are good and bad. Naturally, the take home message to all is I am good and they are bad. Relegate to pond scum once, legitimize such relegation generally.

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This is probably the best post (from my perspective) I've seen from This Is Your Pilot Speaking. Keep it up.

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"This is a safety and traffic flow issue" and has nothing to do with panhandling. Such an ingenuous comment is an insult to one's intelligence. Total bans on panhalding have been declared unconstitutional in cities across the nation. However, since a large portion of donations come from drivers and passengers, some communities, now including Springfield, are seeking to "dry up" that donation stream and, thereby, attack streetcorner panhandling. Asserting that those efforts, instead, address "traffic safety and traffic flow" problems is simply applying a very thin veneer to, hopefully, avoid the Constitutional issues faced by an open prohibition on panhandling. Of course the public officials proposing such laws can't admit that. Of course, citizens who support such laws can't openly admit that. Instead, we're all supposed to act like the emperior is wearing a beautiful new outfit. We know, of course, he "has no clothes" ...but it's considered "poor taste" to mention it.....

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Josh, You must be joshing! And then there's that word "deserve" again. By what logic or evidence does every worker "deserve" a $15.00 per hour wage? Some workers "deserve" to be fired because they lack the traits necessary to keep their jobs and fulfill their part of the labor/owner/management contract. Until these sorts can resolve their problems that lead to their chronic unemployment, they "deserve" nothing beyond perhaps a hand up in becoming functional employees.

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They wouldn't last a week.

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Whenever I rent something, I am held financially accountable for any damage. If I am shopping, the standard of "you break it, you buy it" applies. I hope that the government will bill the occupiers for damages and pursue collection.

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Being aware of social sensitivity and correctness, the trenches were marked “Gender Neutral”.

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It seems to me, especially in this short session, that one party politics by the Democrats is an example of abuse. Honestly, emergency clauses used with abandon to avoid letting the citizens of Oregon have a part in determining what legislation becomes or doesn't become law. What do you call that?

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Hell has frozen over- I agree with BJ. Evidence should trump ideology. This study looks sound to me. But it doesn't mean that Portland's approach to adding housing is good. We should still be very suspicious of Portland development right now- some of the new neighborhoods have major livability problems. The Alphabet neighborhood could experience employed-person flight if the crime doesn't get better. There is quite the redistribution of wealth going on- renters are losing. My thoughts lately: we should also look at who owns multi-family buildings and whether the fact that buildings are being "flipped" is raising rents. Where is all that extra rent money going? Who is benefiting from the current set of tax laws as those laws pertain to real estate? Follow the money. BTW- housing supply can also include smaller, sfh homes that are well-sited. Ran across a very dense new development two stories tall with lovely landscaping and privacy. Awesome.

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If the GOP controls all three branches of government, what do you expect to happen? And if they don't win the WH, do you really expect them to cooperate? They've been throwing a long temper tantrum since Obama was elected, and they will continue. Right now they are pouting (and obstructing) because of an unexpected development. Not one of the Republican candidates seems capable of handling the enormous challenges of governing, and their spoiled brats performance helps keep the rest of us from asking embarrassing questions.

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Maybe they had renters insurance.

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I keep waiting to hear about our state-wide or nation-wide plan to alleviate homelessness, especially whenever someone brings up the budget required to truly help. The idea that Portland can do this alone, patching the leaks caused by our nation's economic priorities, is idiotic. Regarding the Springwater Corridor: I'd love to see the primary source for the quote "the city acknowledges it still needs to figure out a separate policy for addressing the homeless camping along the Springwater Corridor". I'm not sure the city needs something separate. If the city decides that camping isn't allowed in that particular spot it can have the people move to a place where camping is permitted, correct? Also, given that camps have to follow the policies laid out by the city and will be monitored by a camp host, I figure the campers will have to adhere to the rules or move along. This presumes the city will enforce the codes it's establishing, not necessarily a safe assumption.

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Great read. For anyone who doesn't own Poolside, go out and buy it. It is a great album. ESPECIALLY on vinyl. The vinyl was incredibly well-mixed and sounds superb.

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I mostly agree, though I think the terrorization of the bank teller has to be taken into consideration in this instance. It seems like a shorter prison term followed by monitored, mandatory community service would be more appropriate. In addition to the costs, 5 years in jail with other criminals will likely only harden this guy, despite his assertions that he's "headed in the right direction."

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It seems the tactics being used by Republicans are designed to reduce the number of bills that will be passed during this short legislative session. It makes sense in light of the abuse to which the Democrats are guilty in deviating from the agreement to address only budget tune-ups and acting on issues that are actually urgent in the 35 day session. What the Democrats are doing is the epitome of the meaning of "progressive": Give them an inch and they'll take the whole 100 yards to the end zone...never mind the dirty tactics used to get there. That's not to say that if Republicans were in power, that they wouldn't do something similar; conjecture for which we have no proof. However, they aren't in power now and it is not the Republicans who are being abusive.

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Easy to criticize Republicans when you're a Democrat. This editorial has no gravitas.

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Here's the bottom line: When appointed, Scalia was a young judicial conservative. From the GOP perspective, the best Obama is likely to nominate is an old moderate. That is just not going to cut it. The GOP wants Scalia replaced with a conservative in the mold of Scalia himself. No amount of whining by this op edit writer or any other is going to change that. The Republican majority in the Senate may be perishable, but it has got to now count for something.

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"Explosives" is a vague term, which is here being used in a highly calculated, sensationalist, and emotionally provocative way. Dollars to donuts, the Feds are showboating. Ammunition could be called "explosives." A campstove fuel canister is an "explosive." Bottles of hairspray or high-proof liquors, are "explosives." They use such wiggly words. I highly doubt there are any booby traps or IEDs. I do think the Feds have every incentive to hype to the max and stretch the truth, and they have a long, sordid track record of doing so.

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Guaranteed PPS will claim that this student's comments are the determining factor as to whether the Coach violated law or policy. With PPS, they tend to turn employment issues into popularity contests and wash their hands of it.

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My knee jerk reaction to Steve Novick supporting Sanders is "Hello Hillary!"

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actually I think Cliven is the one who wishes he had some sort of renter's insurance..

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Thanks for this story. I hope it will help us all to have more compassion for people who are forced to live out-of-doors. I ride my bike on the local bicycle paths, and have watched with dismay as the homeless population has grown over the years. I am in favor of the new city policy to allow camping, because I think it is inhumane than shooing them from place to place. The homeless situation is here to stay, and we need to figure out a way to deal with it.

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If you are that determined to give money to someone on a street corner holding a sign, park your car, get out, walk up to that person, introduce yourself, hand him or her whatever amount suits you, bid him or her a good day, walk back to your car, get in and drive away. Please, let's stop pretending that treating panhandlers like a Jersey Turnpike toll booth is anything more than an exercise in making the giver feel good.

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Although I have been a supporter of Inclusionary Zoning I cannot support SB 1533 unless it includes the following amendment: Means Tested Inclusionary Housing that qualifies as PUBLIC HOUSING, i.e. a class of housing defined as, Means Test (<=80%MFI) + Government Subsidy (any government any type) + rental agreement, is not allowed in any neighborhood that already contains 15% or more PUBLIC HOUSING clients. The housing policy of the city of Portland - Targeted, UNLIMITED Neighborhood Concentration of PUBLIC HOUSING - allows it to load any neighborhood of its choosing with up to 100% PUBLIC HOUSING clients. This clearly violates the Fair Housing Act of 1968 as recently reaffirmed by the United States Supreme Court. As currently written, SB 1533 could inadvertently or intentionally exacerbate Portland’s disregard for the federal goal of more Equitable Distribution of Public Housing. Richard Ellmyer North Portland

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There are two types of inclusionary zoning i.e. Market Rate Inclusionary Housing and Means Tested Inclusionary Housing. Market Rate Inclusionary Housing is built to be affordable to a specific economic constituency. However, it may be rented by anyone with the ability to pay. Means Tested Inclusionary Housing is built to be affordable to a specific economic constituency. However, only a range of buyers within a restricted MFI are eligible to participate. Only those at the top of that MFI range will find the property affordable. This class of housing is similar to Public Housing and in some cases may actually be Public Housing. The question perpetually arises with inclusionary zoning, Public Housing and other attempts at Affordable Housing, which is never answered: For WHOM are these units being built and what statistical data has been used to determine the need by neighborhood?

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As a funny side note, I am not surprised about the neighbors calling the cops in Hales neighborhood. That strip of homes in particular has become a parking lot with the new MAX line and they are not happy. I know one house in particular puts out a kids at play yellow stand and garbage cans to discourage parking in front of their house. They get their hackles up pretty easy. (Not all, I do know some cool folks living there that take it with stride.) Then again if someone decided to camp on my little lawn strip I'd politely ask them to leave. Then turn on the sprinklers (I don't have pressure for a fire hose). Then plant cactus and lay out lava rock. Then again if it was WW I'd probably bring out beers and popcorn and chill with them for a bit.

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It would be pretty nice if they just restore it to its former glory. Its sad that its became the way it is now. I think its sad it became the way it is and not many actually want to be fixed up as to 1950's. I think if they do that it would look nice and many people would enjoy it. Sometimes just a whole bunch of new needs to have something historical among them.

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Joshua, why should the editors, who took the time to educate themselves and who likely worked stepping stone jobs to get where they are at, try to live on $9.25 and hour? Honestly, the market should dictate what minimum wages are, not government. Why should people of different skill levels get paid the same "minimum" wage? 16 year old Johnny who has never held a job before probably deserves $3.50 and hour while 20 year old Jenny who has several years work experience could be worth much more. I've said it before and I'll say it again... It would be nice if simply raising peoples wages by a few bucks an hour would end poverty but it won't. Change has to happen within families. Intact families with an emphasis on school, good money management and an appreciation for delayed gratification are key foundations to start. Be goal oriented, improve your skill set and you will earn much more than the minimum wage.

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"Congress is now more polarized than at any time since Civil War Reconstruction." For that, a big shout out to the current occupant Barack Hussein Obama, posing as The Great Uniter. FLASHBACK***MANCHESTER, N.H., Aug. 14, 2007 -- Drawing a sharp contrast with Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, his main rival for the Democratic presidential nomination, Sen. Barack Obama said in an interview that he has the capacity she may lack to unify the country and move it out of what he called "ideological gridlock." In eight miserable years, Obama has done more damage to America than ten George W Bush's. And that doesn't even include the addition of $9 trillion to our national debt, more than nearly all presidents before him combined.

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We know, of course, that people aren't going to take the steps you mention. They will roll down a window, hand out some change, a buck or two, maybe some pop or a can of food, etc..then, drive on when the light turns green. You, in your last sentence, dismiss helping others as merely a selfish exercise to make yourself "feel good." That's a rather sad, cynical view of mankind. If a person's values include altruism, including donations to organizations and individuals, is there something paticularly wrong with feeling good about acting on those values? If I value honesty, a clerk gives me change for a twenty when I presented a ten, and I tell him/her so and return that "extra" ten, am I just selfishly do so to make myself "feel better"? If as married person you're faithful to your spouse, are you being so just to make yourself "feel better" We all have values and honoring those values should make us "feel good." For many the charity of helping others represents such a value.

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If you're asking candidates who are running, why aren't you asking all of them; for that matter why aren't they even allowed to participate in upcoming debates? David C. "The Ack" Ackerman, Philip "Sean" Davis, Bim Ditson, Steven Entwisle,Deborah Harris, Lewis E. "Lew" Humble, Sarah Iannarone, Trevor Manning, David Schor, Jessie Sponberg,

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I'm very familiar with the research. I've spoken with many parents who are well aware of the risks of athletic competition and still allow their child to participate even after he or she has suffered a concussion while participating in football, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, hockey, wrestling, rodeo, etc. Instead of using the University of Oregon as your convenient whipping boy, why not call for a ban on football altogether along with the many other sports where there is an elevated risk of concussions, if you are truly that concerned about brain trauma?

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Mr. McFadden, with all due respect, I can see why you think the feds are using terms that are " being used in a highly calculated, sensationalist, and emotionally provocative way." However, I'd say those 'occupiers' and their supporters started it (using word that are 'being used in a highly calculated, sensationalist, and emotionally provocative way') so perhaps they are getting a taste of their own medicine.

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Some people are so dumb that they will vote for Vinis just to find out what "etc." she will bring. Careful though. The impact-tentacles of the progressive movement can be long and very destructive.

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I cannot wait to see if pimping underage girls will result in a larger fine than declining to bake a cake for a gay wedding. It will provide insight into Avakian's priorities.

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If they were trying to be provocative, they would have written "Investigators also found biowarfare materials" instead of "Investigators also found human feces in one of the trenches and spoiled food in the living quarters."

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Labeling others with the intent to humiliate is what's uncivil ...... "homophobe", "bigot", "hatemonger", "climate change denier", "teabagger", "racist", "neocon", "right wing extremist", ad infinitum.

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I agree with Mike. So that means the 30+ year old bank robber that got a total just under $1,000 for his dastardly deed shouldn't get 5 years in prison right?

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It's nice to hear that all the candidates for mayor are being asked about the issue of homelessness. After many years of working at ShelterCare, it's clear to me that Lucy Vinis' depth of knowledge and capabilities to move us forward on this important issue will set her apart from the other candidates.

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I remember reading an article a few weeks ago that started just the opposite, no explosives or booby traps.

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Doing the honest or faithful thing is also known as doing the right thing. Handing money out a car window qualifies as neither; rather, it is an enabling exercise that is notable only for its convenience. Your commitment to drive-by philanthropy lasts only as long as it takes the light to change, and yes, whether you wish to admit it or not, there is a safety component involved. If you want your altruism to feel really good, take those extra steps to engage that person in need. Listen to his or her story instead of reflexively sharing yours first. Does a stranded motorist or an injured animal along a highway get what's most convenient for you in the moment as a response, or do you do more? Why should someone down on their luck deserve anything less?

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The original declaration was "FBI officials said Friday they haven't found any rigged explosives or booby traps at the national wildlife refuge in Oregon that had been seized by an armed group." so the difference appears to be in the "rigged" part. But I also think they are currently using "explosives" as a broad term here.

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There was a little sign, "About Paiute artifacts we care naught, so both genders come and take a squat."

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Great letter To any one with a working brain and pays taxes it should be so obvious that tax and spend politicians and bureaucrats have no clue to conditions in the real world. Peter Courtney Phil Barnhart and Nancy Nathanson have been sitting in Salem so long they are nothing but drones for special interest groups and BIGGER government Just adding up the dollars from recent RG articles for new taxes and fees which these 3 have been promoting comes to about 500 million in new tax and fee spending Recalls for these 3 would be a great start. The problem would be getting the petitions past the government. On anything remotely related to recalling one of their buddies getting the state to approve the signature's is very difficult I just noticed that Jay Bozievich in letter below says the Haynes don't understand typical politicians tripe Voters need to require body cams on all politicians after all government is transparent right He probably dreams of The Jay Bozievich Justice Building

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Thank you for proving you don't know what the word "communist" means. Finicum didn't go to the toilet without his guns. He BRAGGED about wanting to die ... and talked about how his criminal actions meant he was no longer going to be making $100K/year taking in "foster children" and using them as slave labor on his "ranch". He wanted to die, which is why he reached for his gun TWICE when confronted. The only one trying to "grab land" here were the Bundy Bunch and their supporters. They can now "occupy" 8 x 10 pieces of federal property for the rest of their lives.

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I would not overlook the possibility of the FBI planting evidence to bolster their case. Their investigation was overseen by themselves.

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Perhaps, but as a wise person once told me "Two wrongs don't make a right."

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Did the government bill the Wall St Occupiers? How about Occupy Eugene?

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A few of them might have served. Most of them probably not.

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The Portland Business Alliance is part of the reason that there is such a homeless problem. They have advocated for the landlords to raise the rent for years. They need to step up and work with the city and homeless advocates. Allowing people to sleep on sidewalks is not the best solution.

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ETS events occur about every 14 months or so. We are now beginning the latest event which started around the winter solstice. Here's another good presentation on ETS: www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-Mspl1XYUE

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They should change the law so that it's okay to hand food or clothing to the people on the street. I've been approached a couple of times by panhandlers wanting money in Winco parking lots after shopping. I didn't give them money, but they did accept the food I offered. I don't want to support anyone's drug or cigarette habit directly.

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It's good to see them doing this well. I was one who didn't pick them to win 25 games all season. But, I'm still a fan, win or lose. They need to keep it up and make the playoffs. They're a small market team and it keeps the fans happy.

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The city allowed the local Occupy group to move several times, until they took-over the Washington-Jefferson Park. The city didn't act and boot them out until there was a murder at the park. Then the taxpayer was stuck with the bill.

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Thanks for letting us know; there is an expandable box at the top of the review box with a down-arrow. This gives you the article title and excerpt (unless the comment is a reply to another comment, in which case that comment is displayed in the box, instead of the article). It seems like a lot of people are missing this context; it is on the list of things to re-work! We also have a bookmarking feature on the way. Appreciate the feedback!

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Oregon Democrats deliberately chose to overload the short legislative session to preclude a deep analysis of their proposed legislation. This round includes many gifts to their special interest lobbies, evidence by the $100,000 Gov. Brown received to fast-track the minimum wage legislation. The Oregon GOP is absolutely justified in using any delaying tactics at their disposal. This editorial is empty rhetoric. The short session was designed for emergencies that arose during the recession of 2009, not to push controversial bills through without due deliberation. This is a shameful abuse of power by Oregon Democrats, and they should be made to pay at the ballot box.

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Clark has my vote. I've not been impressed with the direction that the Kitty Cabal has taken recently, eschewing sound management in favor of a progressive moonbat agenda that simultaneously fails to confront the city manager and his developer pals. Mike Clark will be a welcome change from the status quo. The city has lost my trust and will need strong, experienced leadership to win it back if they expect me to ever vote for another tax levy - period.

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I hear there is at least one more Eugenian collecting signatures for a possible run. Personally, I am undecided who to vote for, or even if to vote in the mayoral primary. But I do believe that after 12 years of the same person as mayor, the election process needs to extend beyond May. I say "Let's extend the interview process." Very important job.

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The possible desecration of artifacts really adds insult to injury in this case. This was *not* an effective way to communicate their point.

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The balance between protecting privacy and giving law enforcement access to potentially criminal activity is really difficult to find. I wish I knew what the answer was.

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I'd like to know where Bob came from, why he came to Lane County, and why he can't keep even keep a part-time job.

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Those panhandlers are seeking that "handout," That's the purpose of panhaldling. Some folks do pass some money out the window. Some don't. That's a matter of choice. You comment addressing "encouraging" them involves finding a parking spot, going back to the individual and engaging them in a conversation. Most motorists are going somewhere and simply don't have the time to engage with every panhandler they see. Additionally, don't assume that every homeless and/or destitute individual wants to have a conversation with you. Your comparison to a stranded motorist or an injured animal is specious. I and, I guessing, you have altered my plans, called and postponed an engagement, etc. so I could help a stranded motorist.....very different thing. As I mentioned, if Springfield, Eugene or anyone else is truly interested in traffic safety, they should focus on enforcing those "no talking on cell phones and no texting" laws........rather than attacking panhandling.

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This might be a great first step to making more comments sections useful.

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Dave - if the 13 year old were gay or bisexual, Avakian would have imposed a big fine like the cake or the karaoke bar back when they filed the criminal case. I think avakians bias is already clear.

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Of considerably more interest would be asking all of the presidential primary candidates their views on the Bundy family incursions into criminal and domestic terrorism behavior and the FBI and Justice departments very slow response enforcing the law in Nevada and Oregon. I have asked these candidates. So far no responses. Perhaps we can all put the question to them again when the Oregon primary rolls around.

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Mr Obama doesn't practice what he preaches. As a Democratic Senator back in 2006, Mr Obama filibustered the nomination of Justice Alito and voted against the nomination of Justice Roberts. What a flaming hypocrite. Watch for the race card to come out on this one.

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I read that same article. This is why I have no faith or belief in the federal government . Every department an agency have their own a political agenda and the people be darned.

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its not the camping, its the mounds of garbage. I don't care if people sleep in tents but the kinds of campers all along waterfront and out on the trail are the very worst offenders and clearly didn't get the pack in pack out message. that's what the city seems to be tolerating. giant shit heaps along otherwise pretty corridors. if the city is going to allow camping it better give its garbage men a raise!!!

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We are really fun to hang out with.

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The Occupy Eugene people were largely destitute - by choice or otherwise. The Bundy clan are not. I know Ammon has a nice fleet of trucks that we bought him.

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It's the FBI's fault for not allowing the militia time to clean the place up.

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Preparations are also in order on a legislative level for Oregon. While public buildings are being assessed for risk, most private homes aren't. That's probably where most people will be if a near big one (8.0+) strikes. CA has a requirement that pre-1960 homes come with some type of earthquake assessment when they're sold. Here it's buyer beware. As houses are sold, an earthquake risk report should be required. The real estate industry will balk at this suggestion but it should be a priority for safety committees. Government can publicize the risk and offer educational workshops. Tax write offs and other incentives could help with remediation. In a more socialist country there would be brigades door knocking to publicize and offer help, paid by us and for us. It's our government, our economy and our safety that's at stake.

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Mike: Perhaps not, but another saying goes, "Whats good for the goose, is good for the gander", the Bundys displayed an over riding sense of entitlement, any charges the government can charge them with, within the law, I sincerely hope they use. If for no other than to give those that attempt something likeminded, pause.

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"I’d rather give money to panhandlers than to the police and politicians." This ordinance is designed so you can do both!

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