The Argus Observer | Online

Comment Blog - Note: All Comments Subject To Approval

willie wrote on Mar 9, 2010 2:02 PM:

" I wholeheartedly approve of this guy being a spokesman for NRA and the Republican party. "In an interview for the Detroit Free Press (July 15, 1990), Ted Nugent described how he avoided the draft: He claims that 30 days before his Draft Board Physical, he stopped all forms of personal hygiene. The last ten days he ingested nothing but junk food and Pepsi, and a week before his physical he stopped using the bathroom altogether, virtually living inside pants caked with excrement and stained by his urine. That spectacle won Nugent a deferment, he says. His quote: “ but if I would have gone over there, I'd have been killed, or I'd have killed, or I'd have killed all the Hippies in the foxholes… I would have killed everybody "

M wrote on Mar 5, 2010 12:20 PM:

" Does anyone share my opinion about the cell phone law in Oregon? What a joke. I myself think it is a good law, but how are they supposed to inforce it? I see people all day long talking and driving, sometimes even texting. In order to for the law to work, they have to catch you in the act. How hard is it to just put the phone down for a second while you pass a cop? Pretty easy huh? They just can go around pulling people over for picking their noses, looking like they are talking on the phone. Or even people that drive and lean on one arm. From a distance, that kinda looks like talking on the phone. I dont want to rant too much, but obviously this law cannot work. Any others? "

Jobless wrote on Feb 26, 2010 9:01 AM:

" These might have been nice to have in Ontario...
hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/O/OR_CALL_CENTER_JOBS_OROL-?SITE=ORONT&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT "

Disgruntled Vet wrote on Feb 21, 2010 2:59 PM:

" Has anyone but me noticed the new signs the VAOI has place on their new digs. Put on your sun glasses when you go look. Talk about overkill, but this is what Ron Verini does. Overshadow any and everything in close proximity to his operation. Huge sign across the North end of the building. Large sign on the West side and yet another one over the entry door. These signs are so blatantly reflective of Mr. Verini's wealth that they are offensive to a lot of people. You can hardly see the Kinney and Keele hardware sign for this obscene display of over indulgence. Look out John Kirby or you will soon lose your idenity as have others in the community. "

de-Census-tized wrote on Feb 16, 2010 3:02 PM:

" The gov't is paying $15 billion (that would be $15,000,000,000) to count an estimated 304,000,000 citizens. That works out to about $50 each. $50 to have them mail me a piece of paper and for me to mail it back.

This is government efficiency? "

Senior Golfer wrote on Feb 7, 2010 8:48 AM:

" Great story in today's paper(Sun 02-07-10) reference the golf course remodel(kitchen). Yes it is a must do situation Joe.It was well said by Mr Brittingham. A nice well run,well attended course needs a concession area. If not the course loses money. I'm not sure why the mayor cannot figure out this simple math. Joe you should take a drive to Payette,Caldwell,Boise,and view the courses(city run) and the concession areas. They are well run,clean and guess what they make money.
Joe one of the main problems and always has been is the Cities ability to go back on the promise to put money into the local course. Actually you are falling in line with the past leaders. Come on live up to your commitments, Might surprise you to see the course can be a big source of income.
All you golfers out there please swamp the mayor with your calls of support. Ladies golf association get on the phone call the mayor. Golf Board get off your duffs and yell a little louder. Men's association do something--call the mayor,speak to your favorite city council member. Its only thru support we can get the changes made.. "

rt wrote on Feb 4, 2010 1:24 PM:

" Ted Nugent and Glen Beck. Stand back Albert Einstein! Why not ask "Uncle Ted" about the 16 year old girl he "adopted" in Hawaii so he wouldn't get nailed for statutory rape. Or maybe why he had the need to kill 1000 deer last year (his estimate.) What a great American one-hit wonder! "

The searcher wrote on Feb 2, 2010 6:54 AM:

" Some wanted to know where to get information about where the money the Veterans Advocates come's from and how it is spent. Go to web site doj.state.or.us The Oregon DOJ shows that Verini and the VAOI had total revenue of $4895.56 in 08 and assets of $3,740.90. This is something he has to declare every year. With them claiming so little and reporting so little makes one wonder with all they claim to be doing and rent for office space if they are declaring everything. "

Norton wrote on Feb 2, 2010 6:45 AM:

" Well said "attention" . Google Ted Nugent Glen Beck Interview and Uncle Ted sums it up.

On the other hand many in this area fight living wage jobs yet the same complain about paying the minimum wage. Not saying this would alleviate the "leech" syndrome but many of those EBT card holders are two income families .

I love Oregon but we are indeed a welfare state and what can you and I do about that? Seriously. What can we as voters do?

I personally, would like to see them all drug tested at random but heard that was unconstitutional?

Let's have some constructive dialogue . "

attention all walmart shoppers wrote on Feb 2, 2010 4:48 AM:

" I don't if you were in Wal-Mart today, but if you were, I'm sure you looked around and noticed that it was extremely packed. given it's the 1st of the month, but holy h3ll!!! I had to stand in the longest line and wait for 20 minutes before I even got my items onto the belt. I mean, ppl were crowded everywhere, either using their quest cards or oregon trail cards! it's ridiculous.
I try not to judge anyone because I don't know anyones personal stories and/or backgrounds of why or how they become soley dependant on the state to completely support them, but I think it's getting way out of hand.
I know of all ppl what it's like to struggle. I was a single mom, recieving food stamps and trying to get through college , but here I am 10 years later, I am a full time working mother and wife with 4 kids, I have a degree and am providing for my family. So, my question is, why are ppl not trying to do the same??? I see women with kids on expensive looking cell phones, nice clothes and nails done at the check out stands using their Food stamp cards.,and to top it off, half of their carts are full of a bunch of fatty junk food. And most of em, look as if they haven't missed a meal at all! but seriously, If ppl aren't even trying to priorotize thier neccesities, how are they ever gonna get off the system? or an even better question, do they even want to? I mean it must be nice to have all the materialistic bull$#it that you want and still have us tax payers keeping you and your kids well fed huh?!!!
And the sad thing is, thier not even ashamed of the lifestyle thier living, NO, instead their proud of it.
I mean, I would feel guilty for even going in to DHS to apply for assistance, even though it's ppl like me that deserve to get something out of what we pay in. I mean, it's there for us right?
Which raises another topic, Who lets these ppl get away with this crap? How do these people even get accepted? They just go in and say "Ya, Im a single mom, I don't work, I don't have any money and the dads not in my child's life" and it's like instantly their given a card with a $300 limit on it. ....oh and if your illegal, thiers an extra $100 bonus in it for ya too!
And you can say that your here legally all you want, but just because you have a bought and paid for social security card, doesn't give you citizenship!

Dont' get me wrong, my husband is hispanic and of course so are my kids. Race is not the issue. it's the way that our country is being used up by ppl that are coming here to just abuse it. If you are here to work legally, and pay your taxes, then by god, WELCOME TO AMERICA, you deserve every right to be here and live here equally!!
but if you plan on making a living by living on mine and all of the other Americans hard earned wages, then you and every one of the government thieving useless and worthless no good tools need to get the #3ll out!!!!!!! "

wondering wrote on Jan 23, 2010 4:29 PM:

" Does anyone know the outcome of the Nyssa clerk accused of embezzlement? "

A wrote on Jan 20, 2010 12:51 PM:

" "Some even leaflet their church to campaign for mayor too. "

That wasn't directed at anyone I'm sure, lol!!!!

LOL, I love it. "

Larry wrote on Jan 18, 2010 8:57 AM:

" To student.

For the same reason why some deliver the message of George Bush. Politics from the pulpit. Don't you just love it?

Some even leaflet their church to campaign for mayor too. "

Student wrote on Jan 17, 2010 1:32 PM:

" Why do some churches feel it's okay to have politicians come give political speeches during church? I go to church to hear the message of Jesus Christ, not the message of Barack Obama. I find it creepy. "

Honest John wrote on Jan 13, 2010 6:28 PM:

" Does anyone else wonder where the Veterans Advocates of OR-Ida get all their money?? They are supposed to be a non-profit organization. they do not have a dues structure and their piddly little store shure doesn't support the high rent they are supposedly paying. Also the half page add in tuesday's argus is in the business section as indicated by the argus. They do appear to be a business and should be paying a business license. All this group does is pat themselves on the back for each and every accomplishment they purport to have instigated no matter how insignificant it seems to be to the rest of us in the real world. "

Disgruntled Veteran wrote on Jan 12, 2010 7:23 PM:

" As a 100% service connected combat veteran, I am dismayed the Veterans advocates of OR-ida seem to think they are the only game in town. COME ON !!!
This group cannot file claims with the VA or help the Veteran obtain his or her benefits they are entitled to. Do as i did and go find a veteran service officer who can really help the veterans and not some wannabe group.. "

Not Mike wrote on Dec 12, 2009 2:06 PM:

" Mike, in Oregon we don't "punish" criminals, we "remove them" from society. There is a big difference. "

Tour wrote on Dec 10, 2009 7:48 PM:

" Mike - perhaps you should invite more people on tours of the prison. Just a quick little form to fill out. "

Mike wrote on Nov 28, 2009 10:02 AM:

" I just wanted to say that I work at Snake River, and it is a great place to work. The people are so kind, and the prisoners really are a treat. Plus, the inmates all get candy, and special food through the holidays, so if you have a family member whom is in prison, do not worry... they are treated like kings!! I'm just so happy that we dont penalize these felons too badly.. I know I do not want them to feel bad everyday. Afterall, they are the true victims. Right? "

Wouldnt this be nice wrote on Nov 25, 2009 8:09 AM:

" Prineville City Council in negotiations to bring a data center to the city.

Substitute Ontario for Prineville.

Nope. Can't do that. Might pay a living wage and by george and by golly we can't have THAT here in Ontario. It would cost me more to live here.

Sarcasm of course. But, with current "leadership" I do not see a vision anytime soon "

What Tha wrote on Oct 22, 2009 8:20 PM:

" Mayor Dominick stated he was preparing a letter for Council signature, addressed to Idaho Power and the
Idaho Public Utilities Commission, in opposition to the proposed rate increase of 44% to farmers and
businesses

Idaho PUC? "

Dear Disgusted wrote on Sep 20, 2009 8:18 AM:

" Why don't you grow a set and walk next door, talk to your neighbor, tell them their weeds are too high, their dog barks too much, their kids throw rocks at you.
Don't wait for Government to solve your little problems. "

To Disgusted wrote on Sep 19, 2009 4:32 PM:

" Are you one of those guys who complains about everything? "

Wonder if you knew... wrote on Sep 17, 2009 9:18 PM:

" Have you heard that on December 11th, 2009, Malheur Bell will no longer exist? Along with that, service will be handled out of town and the jobs that are now local will leave? I think Qwest would like this to happen without letting the locals know. "

Oops wrote on Sep 12, 2009 7:56 PM:

" Oh my seems like an apology is in order. I did find some coverage of the Armory dance and the fair. Sorry to the staff. "

Disgusted wrote on Sep 12, 2009 7:35 PM:

" Reel-rip-off ? how bout ARGUS rip-off?

One of the bigger events of the year was the return of an Ontario legend in his own right ,Bob Dye and the Armory Dance. No coverage what so ever. Sad. I would have thought that would be news worthy.
Oh by the by where are the fair results??
You folks have really fallen down on the news in my humble opinion. "

Families wrote on Sep 8, 2009 9:09 PM:

" Hm. Go play in the park.
Visit the library. Check out some books. Read them.
Go for a walk.
Plant a garden.
Wash a car.
Sing a song.
Paint a house.
Sweep a sidewalk.
Play with sidewalk chalk!
Ride a bicycle.
Go look through the museum.
Learn how to change a tire. "

Reel Rip-Off wrote on Sep 8, 2009 11:20 AM:

" $40.00 for a family of four that is...or, how bout going down the street and try taking your family bowling. $3.50 per game and another $2 something for shoes. What is it a family can afford to do anymore ??? "

Reel Rip-Off wrote on Sep 8, 2009 8:58 AM:

" Anyone else think its odd that Ontario has to pay $9.50 to see a movie yet the most expensive ticket at the other theatres is only $6.50?. There are Reel Theatres in Nampa that only charge two bucks. Time to get some movie competition in this town. Not many Ontarians can afford almost 40 bucks just to walk in the door. "

No ordinance against stupidity wrote on Sep 7, 2009 4:00 PM:

" Thought I'd write up a play by play to make a report of the village idiot I just saw creeping down the street. His unique gait can be recognized from a quarter mile away. Your standard ne'er-do-well, he slouches his way down the avenues with hands in grubby jean pockets until he gets warmed up. Always wearing a grimy baseball cap with a bill looking almost comical as he scans to the left, then to the right, repeat. He'll gossip about the retards he has to work with at the shoppe but he'll never hold an operator's license and he's afraid of bikes never to ride one.

This past summer he finally drew the last straw with his mom and stepfather. The clown gets into anywhere and starts running his mouth with gossip and lies. The dad blew up and then the courts had to get involved with a domestic dispute. The terms of the plea bargain was that the mom and stepdad could not be together. Between the three, there's only two places to live forcing the mom to choose between the apple that didn't fall far from the tree and the old geezer who likes his sauce from a bottle with a twist off cap. Amazingly, the mom ended up living in her car camping at the truck stop.

Our idiot is always looking for work, looking for a job. Most folks are wise to him knowing he's only looking for a babysitter. His grandma was doing a good job of it, keeping him occupied with her big yard. Then he pulled the same schidt on her. She phoned him at the end of last summer and told him to come down and get his check, they'd settle up. Her voice went firm, "And then, you must never ever, ever never set foot on this property ever again. I'm firing you!"

The psychopathic deviant with the mind of a young teenager has grown smart enough to stay out of jail. That, or the sheriff is afraid to book him for a night, it would only mean the other inmates would give him a beat-down severe enough that he'd do hard time in the hospital again. "

Disgusted wrote on Aug 28, 2009 4:32 PM:

" My question to the city of Ontario Taxpayers-Have you ever called City Police about a ordnance violation? Were you satisfied with the outcome? Were your calls returned? Were you kept advised of the progress on your complaint? Did you call the ordnance ofc. several times to check on compliance of the ordnance you reported? Did you finally just give up?

I'd like to hear your stories

Thank-you "

to broken service wrote on Aug 28, 2009 11:45 AM:

" I would have to agree with you on that one with the exception you have extended more credit to them than whats deserverd the keystone & maybery police BARNY by himeself can do more an d better service. "

phil Mullins wrote on Aug 19, 2009 9:00 PM:

" Everyone have their tickets for the ARMORY REUNION DANCE on the 29th ? "

phil Mullins wrote on Aug 19, 2009 8:57 PM:

" I am sure that the people that came through Ellis Island did it all the LEGAL WAY. End Of discussion. Nothing Illegal about them. Otherwise, like now days some people just run through the boarder. They have no rights... "

concerned wrote on Jul 14, 2009 11:47 AM:

" RIGHT ON! Great information! "

M wrote on Jul 14, 2009 9:11 AM:

" Thought I would share this with you all. What is your opinion?

So many letter writers have based their arguments on how this land is made up of immigrants . Ernie Lujan for one, suggests we should tear down the Statue of Liberty because the people now in question aren't being treated the same as those who passed through Ellis Island and other ports of entry .

Maybe we should turn to our history books and point out to people like Mr. Lujan why today's American is not willing to accept this new kind of immigrant any longer . Back in 1900 when there was a rush from all areas of Europe to come to the United States, people had to get off a ship and stand in a long line in New York and be documented . Some would even get down on their hands and knees and kiss the ground . They made a pledge to uphold the laws and support their new country in good and bad times. They made learning English a primary rule in their new American households and some even changed their names to blend in with their new home .

They had waved good bye to their birth place to give their children a new life and did everything in their power to help their children assimilate into one culture Nothing was handed to them . No free lunches, no welfare, no labor laws to protect them . All they had were the skills and craftsmanship they had brought with them to trade for a future of prosperity

Most of their children came of age when World War II broke out . My father fought along side men whose parents had come straight over from Germany
, Italy
, France and
Japan. None of these 1st generation Americans ever gave any thought about what country their parents had come from. They were Americans fighting Hitler, Mussolini and the Emperor of Japan . They were defending the United States of America as one people .

When we liberated France , no one in those villages were looking for the French-American or the
German-American or the
Irish-American . The people of France saw only Americans . And we carried one flag that represented one country . Not one of those immigrant sons would have thought about picking up another country's flag and waving it to represent who they were . It would have been a disgrace to their parents who had sacrificed so much to be here . These immigrants truly knew what it meant to be an American . They stirred the melting pot into one red, white and blue bowl .

And here we are in 2008 with a new kind of immigrant who wants the same rights and privileges, only they want to achieve it by playing with a different set of rules, one that includes the entitlement card and a guarantee of being faithful to their mother country . I'm sorry, that's not what being an American is all about . I believe that the immigrants who landed on Ellis Island in the early 1900's deserve better than that for all the toil , hard work and sacrifice in raising future generations to create a land that has become a beacon for those legally searching for a better life . I think they would be appalled that they are being used as an example by those waving foreign country flags .

And for that suggestion about taking down the Statue of Liberty , it happens to mean a lot to the citizens who are voting on the immigration bill . I wouldn't start talking about dismantling the UNITED STATES just yet . "

TO INFOHOMO wrote on Jul 9, 2009 1:51 PM:

" I ran your people of you land? Dude, my ancestors are from spain. Get your facts straight. And maybe, dont jump to call someone racist because they talk the truth. I am far from racist. And yes, I can tell the ethnicity of a person just by looking at them. Its not that hard. Smell for beans, you will find the hispanic ones. "

To proud union wrote on Jul 8, 2009 5:35 PM:

" Seems to me I get non stop mail from my union, telling me how to vote, and the only constant is the (D) behind the name, on an issue if the union is for it, it's usualy a bad idea for me personaly. I can't boycot them though, they take my dues no matter what, they do buy me Pizza once a year. "

concerned wrote on Jul 8, 2009 1:30 PM:

" What do you think of the Salvation Army store here in Ontario? Their prices are outrageous! Do they want to sell things or not? Most of the people there are very helpful and friendly but there is one gal, who I think runs the store, who is just plain rude! She acts like those are all her personal items and SHE is going to lose money if SHE doesn't hike the prices up. One time I heard that Idaho marks the prices and if that is true, why? WE ARE OREGON and they should not have anything to do with us! The next time you think about shopping there, hit a garage sale first or even Walmart. You'll probably get a better price and friendlier experience too. I know I will NOT EVER donate a thing to Salvation Army or go into THAT store again. Too many times of the same experience with that broad! Let me know what you think. "

Pround Union Member wrote on Jun 30, 2009 9:32 PM:

" Last May, the Federal Election Commission dismissed a complaint by labor groups that accused Wal-Mart Stores Inc. of pressuring employees to vote against Democrats in November's election, though FEC staffers warned the case was a "close call."

What happened above is why Walmart deserves to be unionized.

Is why every democrat in this country should boycott Walmart a Republican leaning company "

inforodeo wrote on Jun 30, 2009 10:30 AM:

" to: TO JUDY B

wow! after reading your comment:

"Ontario seems to be a safe haven for illegals. Just drive around town and look at all the strollers being pushed, and 6 more children following behind. All from one woman and seven different men."

... i would LOVE to know how you were able to drive down the street, determine the country of origin AND sample the DNA of 6 children and a mother without leaving the air-conditioned interior of your fancy Mexican or Japanese-made car.

maybe you don't realise something, coming from your privileged, isolated, background: children of different fathers (or with no father) are not usually seen walking with their mother and siblings across town. more often than not (and regardless of race!), they're split up around town, some in jail, some inebriated, some in bed with your perfect little granddaughter.

When you see the "single" mom pushing a stroller down the street with two or three or five kids following behind her, she is probably a good mother, with a religious background (of the "devout" kind who actually try to live what they're taught), in a solid marriage, and the reason the dad is nowhere to be seen is that he is WORKING some low-pay, undesirable job (or jobs!) to support his children.

yeah, there's a problem with people coming here "illegally", but would you rather they come with their armies and slaughter and maim people like you so they can take "your" land and possessions?

Your ancestors did that to my ancestors. "

A Certain Businessman wrote on Jun 29, 2009 6:06 PM:

" is worried about trees downtown blocking his windows. We with all due respect sir, your windows are all ready blocked with that graffiti warehouse style advertising painted on them. You have come a long ways on your building but until you quit using this type of advertising on your windows then I hope trees do block them!

Get rid of your insecurities folks. If I don't come into your store, it won't be for the trees . It will be the fact I am boycotting your business because I don't like you "

TO Judy B wrote on Jun 29, 2009 3:53 PM:

" Stop your whining and move if you have that much of a problem with the truth. Ontario seems to be a safe haven for illegals. Just drive around town and look at all the strollers being pushed, and 6 more children following behind. All from one woman and seven different men. Disgusting! They distroyed Mexico, and now they have come to ruin our country, and you think this is ok? You need to pull your head out and get a fresh breath of air. This is a problem and you just want to minimize it. Pathetic! "

Judy B wrote on Jun 25, 2009 8:25 PM:

" I feel the need to write on what I observed in some of the Argus blogs, referencing the robbery at a local business, the alleged perpetrator was armed with a knife.

There were mostly only hateful racist remarks, which are not in line with Ontario, a multi-cultural community. The local police were asking for any information in helping solve this crime. I didn't read one entry of possible assistance. Having lived in many different places, I have come to know peoples of varied cultures and races. Most, I was proud to call friends and neighbors. To state so blatantly that because a person was described as a Hispanic male, he MUST be an illegal, just made me angry and ashamed to be part of this community.

As I see it, this is nothing more than a political move to keep peoples divided, since, as we all know, divided we fail as a society. Peoples of all races, ages, taste in attire, and varied other differences commit crimes. During this economy, many races commit robberies. Golly whiz-even LEGAL citizens! It is so easy to blame a stereo type than to expend a little energy in thinking of other possibilities. I would hope that the journalistic quest of a community newspaper would investigate these attitudes. They are deplorable!! "

The Webbs wrote on Jun 17, 2009 5:20 PM:

" Today at around 2:40PM my kids were out in front of my Home here on Main Street Weiser, a man driving a dark blue Jeep ran over and killed our family dog. He did not slow down, he did not stop after hitting the dog. There were over 6 or seven children in close proximity of this incident who all got to watch this level of gross indifference and reckless abandonment for the neighborhood safety regarding pedestrians. One of the kids tried to catch the dog all of the kids were yelling for her to get out of the road. Everyone else stopped and offered help for this we thank you. This driver in the blue jeep did not. If you have information regarding who this person was please contact me at 549-2329. "

Mark wrote on May 23, 2009 7:25 AM:

" To all the people that stopped on SE 2nd st on 5/21, and helped my daughter by getting the Dog off of her, I just want to say thanks for stopping and helping her.

To the owner, keep the thing chained, kenneled, fenced or inside, before something worse happens. "

Larry wrote on May 4, 2009 6:32 PM:

" Im sitting here watching nutguy NORM Crume grilling the Snake River Transit. If I heard right, Norm said forget the border. We are one community. Why you dirty crook! Way to go Kelly Poe! You are right. Norm was elected to worry about us. Not Idaho. For you ignorant know it all attitude. You were elected to watch our money not Federal , not Idaho and not state.

There fore I will personally begin a recall against you and your unethical ways. I am saying what I KNEW ALL ALONG
businessman do not represent me and if you don't think I have the guts to recall you just try me. PUKE on you and puke on that crooked Mayor buddy of yours "

olkmnaugf wrote on Apr 28, 2009 9:02 PM:

" Sad, a somewhat benign sentiment unless used as a condescending adjective. I've seen a few web trolls use it as a blunt club to taze their literal opponents. Those wise guys have a diabolical intent while swaggering away smug and self assured. I try to think what makes me sad... it only gets more difficult with each passing day. I may need to quit when all that is really important to me is that I can lay down and nap once more.

I had the flu, a sickness a couple years ago. I was very surprised when I have not been sick like that since I was maybe eight years old. Then, I was delighted to learn that I had slept for thirty six hours. If the day has come that pigs fly, I might pause in a waking moment to consider my impermanence. I could be sad for the life that has passed me by but then, I could remember that there is only a few good weeks in the year when it is not too cold nor hot outside, the flies and bugs are not out there doing their thing. Nope, I won't be missing much.

Some things I would rather miss if there is a next time. I'll try not to watch those beheading videos on the Internet. And while the madness of 911 is on video too, I never felt fully the entire complexity of sadness until I came across the audio recording of someone caught on one of those smoky floors. Someone dubbed it over with video that we are familiar with. When the tower collapsed, it was a singular moment in time lasting just a bit too long, it captured something on the same level of my worst nightmares. "

Liz wrote on Apr 11, 2009 12:27 PM:

" This is in response to 'Move to Ontario?' of Mar 15. Our family relocated from Spokane to Ontario exactly a year ago this month. When we looked at the map and my husband showed me where we were going, I almost bawled. "It's almost in Nevada!" I said. 1) I just returned from a meeting with my child's teacher at Aiken School and want to say that I am very happy with the instruction she is receiving and the educational experience she is having. 2) We were able to sell our house in Spokane and buy a much nicer place here in Ontario, with the same money. 3) We have discovered several opportunities for community involvement, which were not as apparent in the city. 4) I love it that citizens with names and faces are fighting to keep community assets in place through the budget crunch, such as the city pool,the library, the golf course, The Boys and Girls Club. 5) We're not big shoppers, but have had especially nice experiences shopping locally for home remodel supplies, furniture, plants and garden supplies, a used car, a mountain bike, and, believe it or not, men's clothing. (My husband, the non-shopper, is crazy about Quisenberry's.) I have made two out-of-town shopping trips this year: one for back-to-school and one for Christmas. Otherwise, we find everything we need in Ontario. 6) We have had several minor doctor visits (3kids) and one trip to the E.R. and were very satisfied with the care we received and how quickly we received it. 7) We haven't settled on a church yet, but have visited many very nice ones--some with lots of diversity. 8) There are several nice, but casual, restaurants for date night, and we've never had to wait for a table. 9) There is a community college, which contributes much to the culture of Ontario. 10)The growing season is wonderful. 11) The traffic is minimal. 11) The only thing I really miss is transportation options. If you want to get to anywhere else from Ontario, you're looking at a long drive.

Ontario is in a slump right now. It is a place where involvement is welcomed, socially or politically. And we have met many, many hard-working, friendly people.

Yes, if you're planning to relocate, and want a place where you can really be a part of what's happening, Ontario is a good choice. If you are considering a commercial venture, Ontario is ripe for it. If you want a big-city lifestyle, you probably should keep looking. L.H. "

barbara wrote on Mar 17, 2009 11:23 AM:

" This is in regard to the dui michael hunt recieved. He understands what he did was wrong and that he has to pay restitution... but how can holy rosary hospital justify charging 1500.oo for damages that could be fixed with 2 ft of sod and 10 minutes work?? Talk about breaking the law!!! "

what is up wrote on Mar 9, 2009 11:33 AM:

" Butlers can`t take tha heat !!!!!!!!Ya that`s ok if they know the judge ,but they would not put up with it if zeb did! "

The papper caved in again wrote on Feb 27, 2009 4:49 PM:

" So anyone else notice the argus pulled the blog about Fruitland and the security cameras??

So what did Watkins threaten the papper? The mayor of Ontario takes a beating in the papper almost daily and well deserved it is, But always seem to be anything that happens in Fruitland always get's swept under. Please tell all of us just who is it that has all this power over the papper??

What you don't think the people of fruitland know what is going on here with Watkins?? Let everyone that knows something be able to get it out for others to see, Then maybe we can have some change for the good.
Maybe you would sell more pappers over here if you had a backbone. "

poindexter wrote on Feb 26, 2009 4:00 AM:

" One would think that a house would be an essential commodity such as food and clothing. Yet in a world of greed, speculators have usurped sensibilities to inflate a weedy, condemnable lot to prices unthinkable except for the players hoping to "flip" their ante in another Ponzi scheme.

Poor granny, holding her shares in a mutual fund, hasn't a clue to her part in supporting these diabolical plans. She howls in disbelief when her numbers dip or the paper value of her house begin to fall back to reason. Rep. Walden says he didn't vote for the bailout/stimulus, I wonder if he doesn't understand the numbers either.

The real assets are the idly unemployed. But, don't look for the stupid to become productive with the help of any incentives. The county clown readily plays his part as the happy idiot but quickly becomes a simple schmattass when given a chance. When mama's boy isn't dusting unsold Tv sets, look for the creep to be pacing the avenues when the babysitters grow weary of him. "

batt wrote on Feb 24, 2009 9:30 PM:

" I explained to my wife that any organization that puts its members in such a state that they are unable to continue loving and accepting someone as dear to them as a husband, son, and father is an unhealthy organization and is creating in its adherents an emotionally and psychologically unhealthy condition. "

beer opportunity wrote on Feb 17, 2009 11:16 PM:

" If Oregon raises the beer tax to 50 some dollars a barrel on beer brewed in Oregon......and Idaho's tax (if raised) is only at $7......wouldn't it be feasible to recruit breweries to relocate to just across the border.....they could possible find a slogan that touts it as "Oregon Rebel Beer"-----I think this would be a great marketing ploy and give us in Eastern Oregon some much needed jobs....
If this passes I think we should pursue this..... "

Sam wrote on Jan 12, 2009 12:41 AM:

" I am curious and have asked around, but have not been able to find an answer: What does Ontario do with the transient people we see standing on the corner, asking for money? Is there a place where they can go and sleep for the night? If not, where are they sleeping? I always hear advice about not giving panhandlers a handout, but this time of year, the urge is irresistable. One only has to imagine what it's like under the Snake River bridge at 2 am. The guy who was standing at the WalMart intersection the other day with a yellow lab, seemed like a pretty decent person. I didn't give him money, but wish I had. "

WHAT HAPPENED wrote on Dec 1, 2008 2:19 PM:

" Not just what happened to the probation officer's blog....what the heck happened to her?? She was suppose to be back in court on Nov. 18th and there has been NOTHING in the paper regarding this.

Please report on this case as so many of us have had contact with this woman. Thanks "

Old Jock wrote on Nov 24, 2008 4:46 PM:

" Saw the last quarter and overtime of the Parma game Friday night. Now that was a contest. Should have been on the upper half of Sunday's sports page, I thought, instead of the lower. Panthers, you made us proud! "

what the.... wrote on Nov 18, 2008 6:23 PM:

" what happened to the blog on the local probation officer, others have been there longer, why is it some blogs vanish while others linger. did you see what she is charged with a misd.... official misconduct 1. what is with that. well at least she gets a judge from harney county. maybe she will stay out of jail. "

Larry wrote on Nov 16, 2008 8:34 PM:

" Do I want to write my own blog?

Nah! I think I will pass for now "

Broken Service in Weiser wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:41 PM:

" How many people feel that their local city workers suck? We have a regular Keystone crew out here in Weiser. bust it, scrape it, dig it up, take off, don't mark it, forget about it, deny it and repeat. Then let the mayor bury it, and go on break. "

NoSoupForYou wrote on Nov 10, 2008 9:20 AM:

" Dear Rachel,

I have heard that the local Food Bank has been suffering a shortage lately. My heart hurts to think of the dire circumstances enveloping those in need. I have made sincere efforts to give to charities where I can- When the grocer asks for a donation to cancer research, I do. And if she doesn't ask, I drop my change into a can near the end of the counter. Last year some local kid got into an accident and I sent his family a hundred towards his medical efforts. Another guy got into a farm accident so I attended his benefit dinner to drop a 20 into his collection box.

Several non-profit groups have my name and I send them 10 or 20 dollars when they ask. I got to thinking that I would rather give locally when a need arises but, ignorance is bliss. It is easy to be seduced by the professionals who craft handsome papers outlining their needs. They often have photographs to highlight their plight of paying the bills. Relatively, I am safely anonymous not knowing the details involved in the day to day interactions amongst individuals in those communities.

However as I said, ignorance is bliss. I happen to live nearby an unappreciative idiot. Recently, another pot-puffing, food-box-grabbing neighbor moved away and took a good portion of the ghetto with him, life is better. But the idiot remains and I won't give to the Food Bank as long as I know he is here in town, getting fed by his mom, letting his food stamps collect unspent, calling his money handlers for 95$ to get his cat spayed, and then throwing out his down and out brother from his state provided two bedroom house when he thought his brother was stealing food.

That's how I learned that the Food Bank here in town is low. The brother said that was all the food he had. Granted, the brother needs his own place to avoid the inevitable disagreements with his idiot brother, but the idiot doesn't know the hand that feeds him and his cat. AND then, his protective mom drives him the 1/4 mile to the Senior Center to grab a box of food and haul it home.

Nope, not one damnt dime will I give to that baxtard. let the ignorant tax payers contribute to the spoilage of that ungrateful sun of a beach. You just don't know how aggravating that guy is until he starts something with you and, the streets are not safe to walk when his favorite pastime is to be pacing the avenues looking for attention.

Sorry. "

Laree wrote on Nov 3, 2008 4:14 PM:

" Once again I see on the front page of the argus about the transgender who got a ticket.
I would like to say if you are breaking the law now matter what your preference male or female does not make a difference the law is the law what part of that is not understood here.
Pay the ticket and do us all a favor and quit complaining and be a law abiding citizen with a legal drivers license and you wont have to worry about getting a ticket.
What kind of an example are we setting for our future generations.Your sending the message that it's ok to break the law because of gender I dont think so. "

Maxwell wrote on Oct 16, 2008 8:13 AM:

" I was a new kid in school, it was the fifth grade and kids hadn't learn to hate yet. Out on the playground there was a kid who wouldn't be unnoticed. While all the other kids were running after a ball, playing tag or being active one way or another, "Paul" was just being big. He was huge for his age, I seen him again when everyone grew up. He didn't look much different than Robert Earl Hughes (Google.)
On the playground Paul couldn't do much until he'd clamp a face lock on anyone who happened to get within reach. Known as the "claw" in professional wrestling, everyday, Paul would have another hapless victim writhing on the ground screaming until the playground supervisor would force a release with the command of her voice. Paul would always have an excuse such as, "he pulled a knife on me!"
I began to savvy politics and the ways of the world while wondering how Paul could get away with it day after day. After asking around, I learned that the playground supervisor was Paul's mom. "

almaraz fam. wrote on Oct 9, 2008 4:00 PM:

" personal attacks!? i hope someone higher than Mr. Caldwell reads this blog because ever since my brothers trial all that we have read are personal attacks and i have gone in person to speak to Mr.Caldwell about all the noncense that is being allowed on these blogs i am a citizin of ontario i was recieving the argus and so were our friends and fam. but we refuse to support the local papper if whats being said about our loved one can not be controled by your staff.
if and when you read this i hope it gets posted because it seems like things are getting a little personal and i hope that on of your staff (besides Mr.Caldwell will contact me regarding this matter.
no personal attacks is what you state in your policy but do you actually follow it? Dosen't seem so. "

Linchpin wrote on Oct 8, 2008 7:36 AM:

" Three deadbeat dads ditching child support checked into a roach hotel and were charged $30 for which they paid $10 each. The next day, the sheriff realized that the men had been overcharged since the real price is $25 for the cell. A sworn deputy gave the turnkey $5 to return to the three insane posse clowns. On the way to cell block C the turnkey decided to keep $2 for himself so he wouldn't have to make change. The turnkey gave $1 to each of the disheveled heroes and explained the mix up. The three men had now paid $9 each, or a total of $27. This, plus the $2 the turnkey kept for himself, makes a total of $29. What happened to the other dollar?

Solution: It vanished into the ether along with the 700 billion dollar bailout passed by congress. The disappearing dollars don't buy an apple, they don't buy a commune on mars. Consider it as a tithing to god if you have no other explanation. "

thePlumber wrote on Sep 21, 2008 9:00 AM:

" I'll believe it when I see it but Toker John has been making plans to move out of town. After four years of playing host to every dirtball in town, his precious daughter of 17 years traveled 800 miles to look after him and his cancer riddle needs. He decided that the environment here wasn't good for his little darling and so, they are poised to vacate at the end of the month.
The quintessential poster boy of white trash has a half dozen kids. Each a high school drop out, each living high on the entitlement hog, each living for their next buzz. Over the past few years we have seen the ambulance haul away his overdosing floozies, seen the cops asking where his wayward floozies may be, and recently, seen agents of ATF looking to trace weapons of mass destruction in the hands of his crazy fugitive floozies. It might not be a nuclear device but what difference does it make when Einstein said everything is relative and your mass is in jeopardy.
Let us now bask in the luxury of a good, cleansing shower and enjoy some time with a minty fresh colon as we wash our hands of these innocent denizens whose existential way of life has done more to improve the community than any dog doo on the sidewalk would indicate.
Alas, storm clouds darken the horizon. What drama the cursed gods in heaven have planned for us no one can yet know.
Woe to ye towards the east. "

Advertisement Scam wrote on Sep 12, 2008 10:18 AM:

" I was looking through the ads for employment and came accross the ad for working for the postal office, earning 20.00 an hour, plus federal benefits. WELL, I called the number on the ad, and David answered. They first ask 3 questions; did you complete high scool, are you over 18yrs old, and are you a citizen. Then they go into how much money you can earn and the benfits. When all looks great and your excited to get the package for you to study for the exam. WHAM!! You get hit with the fee of $129.45. No way of telling if you will pass the exam for sure. So in other words, the ad is not for employment but for someone posting their business to take your money. The exam for the post office is free, and pretty easy if you completed high school. Beware of the ad, and don't be taken for a fool. "

Disgusted wrote on Sep 3, 2008 7:05 PM:

" Who in the world is Ron Verini? How did he get a seat on the council? What did Ron do to stir up the Vets? Now who kicks his butt out for acting like a spoiled brat? Ron if the Vets do not want you so what get over it. By your actions you do not belong on a decision making council. Guess I also have to ask why don't the Vets want you Ron? Give me a break Joe caved in to a small group? Wake up Ron we are not a small group. Maybe you should research just how large a group the Vets really are. Joe did the right thing by removing you now the next step is removing you again............ "

JimmyOlsen wrote on Aug 28, 2008 5:25 PM:

" The bad news was taped to the door today. It read,

IT WAS BROUGHT TO THE ATTENTION OF THE OWNER THAT TENANTS WERE WATERING THE LAWN. THIS PRACTICE SHOULD STOP IMMEDIATELY...

Although the groundskeeper is a former Olympian with the unstoppable energy of a 2 year old, she can't do it. The evidence shows that she'll end up trucking loads of wood chips in to cover everything that doesn't get watered. "

Exiled wrote on Aug 7, 2008 11:40 AM:

" Who writes the online poll questions? Talk about loaded questions! "

JimmyOlsen wrote on Aug 2, 2008 5:19 PM:

" You may have heard about the Large Hadron Collider in Europe that is scheduled to begin exploring the limits of what egg-heads know about particle physics. Some of those in Al Gore's global warming camp are abandoning their posts and beginning to jump up and down in an effort to alert the rest of us about impending doom.
The experiments there at the collider are likened to Columbus sailing out over the horizon. No one knows what will be there. The worst case scenario depicts a particle approaching the speed of light and gaining mass to comply with Einstein's theory. As the mass of the particle increases the centripetal force required to hold it within its circular race track grows to become the limiting factor. So to compensate, a larger diameter ring is needed and the mad scientists built the Large Hadron Collider.
When two relatively hefty particles collide at opposition the energy is released in all directions, haphazardly. However, there is a chance that a disproportional amount of that energy will be induced and absorbed by one chip off the old block name of muon. If the two colliding particles have only reached 75% the speed of light respectively, the result could impel a muon to over 100% of the speed of light and bring its mass past infinity. As we know, the more massive a body, the more gravity it has as a force.
Now imagine, a singular point that has vanished towards nowhere. It emits no light because it practically isn't there. But in its wake, it is pulling everything into it that isn't tied down because it has the gravity of a million suns.
First, all the pencils and papers fly off Van Kepler's desk followed by a filing cabinet and the desk itself. Then, all the white lab coats hanging on the wall begin to lean with the wind. Astronauts aboard the International Space Station can look toward Switzerland and see something that looks like an eddying drain and the earth slowly getting swallowed into it.
Its better for the story telling if it happens slowly, majestically, but the universe could vanish quicker than the wink of an eye. "

Michael Allen wrote on Jul 27, 2008 9:09 AM:

" The FDIC myth

The FDIC took a big hit in their reserves with Indy Mac. I don't think many people quite realize that when the money's gone, it's really gone. There isn't enough money in the world to cover ALL the banks.
People believe they are safe, they feel secure because we have the FDIC and a central banking system. The FDIC has to be able to do work-outs, like they did with the last two banks that failed, and if they can't, it's another hit on the reserves in VERY LARGE percentages of those reserves. Having a central banking system is precisely why we should NOT feel secure.
Local banks create local problems, but national banking creates national problems and those problems are likely to be just too big for any government to handle.
The FDIC doesn't have the assets to pay depositors of a single medium size bank failure. The FDIC is not meant to counter an economic upheaval, they are set up to insure the one odd banking mistake when times are good. That is why they only maintain 0.3% of their insured assets in total reserves. Don't count on anything from the FDIC once the runs start on Citi.

The FDIC has $43B left in total reserves, Citi has $2T. Meredith Whitney an analyst for Oppenheimer, whose financial forecasts has been spot on, is correct in calling for the inevitable failure of Citi, and more than likely Wachovia.
With the passage of the so-called "Housing Bill" this week, we'll probably see another "rally" in the financial stocks. Don't be fooled, this rally may continue until after the elections, then the real impact of what our so-called leaders in D.C. have done to the American taxpayers will come home to roost. Welcome to the U.S.S.A, United Socialist States of America. "

JimmyOlsen wrote on Jul 26, 2008 2:24 PM:

" I went over to Steve's because they were rich and had a big house, big yard and a woods behind that. Steve's older brother Tom, by two years, had a friend who was probably the toughest kid in school. It was probably better to be allied with Jack by association. Or, so I thought.

So, Steve and I were playing Ping-Pong when Steve starts aping an impression of Jack. Oh, he wore a set of chain bracelets that he liked to rattle while shaking a fist. It was a simple gesture rather than a wave but everyone knew the reputation behind it. Yeah, it was funny and fitting for the challenge of the next point but all of the sudden Jack walks into the den and catches Steve using his signature move. He didn't think of it as a joke and the two of them got into a headlock, Steve caught a thrust to the jaw.

My friend was beat, hunched over the table, trying to rub out the tear drops that were probably induced more by defeat than pain. Jack, the two-face, was suddenly concerned. With a pleading voice, he asked Steve if he was going to tell. After a couple of urgings, Steve had an idea that he might still come out on top of this game of one-upmanship, "Yeah, I'm gonna tell!," he squealed.

Jack's reply was judicial as he said, "Well, Ok then, might as well make it worthwhile." What followed was a blurred scene of dusty clouds while Jack thumped and whaled on Steve until he was down on the floor getting cold. After the smack-down was thoroughly sufficient, Jack looked to me and asked if I wanted some too.

At this time of the story telling, the gentle reader might think to enjoy a refreshing ice-cold Coca Cola and be reminded to stay tuned until next time when we answer the question of who would be better to give us another four years of hoodwinking and a shell game to boot, Obama or McCain? "

kindawondering wrote on Jul 17, 2008 9:52 AM:

" I see the Massingill blog has "mysteriously disapeared". Looks like Steve did not approve of what the people had to say concerning what his newspaper prints. "

Ray Dickerson wrote on Jul 14, 2008 7:24 AM:

" To Jimmy Olson. You are too good of a writer and a little too perceptive to be a tenant in a subsidized complex.

Today's NYT's has an article about the new Head of the AFT (American Federation of Teachers) wanting to convert schools to community centers for the poor and underprivileged children, as opposed to testing of children or holding schools accountable. She envisions a home away from home for the children, so all adults would have to do is breedem’ and then let the government take over. It will be called the Obama miracle, I’m sure. "

JimmyOlsen wrote on Jul 13, 2008 8:27 AM:

" A cursory glance at the lease agreement is all that is necessary to conclude that most if not all the tenants are illiterate. No use for an eviction when there is another clone to replace them. Its another lauded effort by HUD to create an enviable complex of small apartments for "Seniors or Disabled." All utilities paid and rent rates calculated by income. How can anyone fail?
Lets start with all the miserable little dogs that bark at anything that moves. Next, have a son with difficulties of his own. He moves in with grandma and brings his BIG dog along. The fat lady who couldn't find a circus and instead got herself a wheelchair is so lonely she decides to offer counseling and support for dudes returning from prison. It doesn't matter how long the state has kept them sober, they're back to square one and painting the town ugly upon release. How about grandpa with a half dozen grown kids. Now he's the baby sitter for all the grand kids and has at least four at a time living in his unit which is less than 500 square feet. They litter the grounds with pop cans and cigarette butts. Some of the tykes are cute and make the world a better place but the ugliest daughter, ugly as sin, bred herself to someone with less self-respect. The production includes a little girl who was a beauty for the first three years of her life but now she needs glasses and it is evident that she will mature into a rotund, obese thing to waddle around town. A little boy whines all the time and it's not cute. Its the ugly pout of a complaining brat who likes to race his plastic toys up and down the deck until uncle Bozo and his ghetto blaster with subwoofer is heard arriving from a couple blocks away.
What hasn't already been said about Toker John and his stable of wayward lush. It is fatiguing to even think about what may be next after his clan of gypsies trashed the laundry room to render it as some kind of dark, dank medieval torture chamber with dust bunnies in every corner and an overflowing trash can. He developed a commendable hobby raising strawberries. The watering doesn't stop until he goes to weeding and then the sidewalk looks as is someone dumped a wheelbarrow of mulch over it to swallow the convenience back into the earth. "

Pat Caldwell Jessica Keller wrote on Jul 8, 2008 6:47 AM:

" Once a blog topic reaches a certain number of responses, it is automatically archived by our Web host. That particular blog had more than 100 responses. Please see today's Argus Observer for a follow up to the story. Thank you for your interest. Pat Caldwell, editor Jessica Keller, news editor "

what wrote on Jul 7, 2008 2:21 PM:

" What happened to the blogs about the fruitland mother who texted and emailed naked photos to that boy? Hey Mr. Editor, are you part of the conspiracy to keep this quiet? "

JimmyOlsen wrote on Jul 4, 2008 7:58 AM:

" Toker John's latest floozy was seen to be flopping around on the lawn last night like a fish out of water. She was in jail a few nights ago after having a knock-down, drag out, rock & roll party in the street with her old man. A restraining order issued by the courts will keep those two apart. While Toker John continues to offer a port for his stable of wayward lush, we can expect more entertainment funded by tax payers and entitlement programs that have enabled many idle hands.

You might recall episodes past featuring the likes of Sot Beth, Luscious Pam the Blackout Witch, Carol the transient, and more. Despite a popular vote for family values, Toker John maintains fresh connections with his underground commerce and a history that predicts the future. With several casual humps under his belt, his oldest son is a murderous fugitive, no one knowing where he may be hiding out. Another son is currently in jail on a rape charge and his youngest daughter who had plans to visit this summer has been caught in her own life managed with drugs and alcohol, to serve the courts with some re-hab and other particulars assigned by the judge. His other daughters are noted for pushing baby carriages and juggling vouchers from the WIC program, also known as the Single Mothers on Food Stamps program. "

Jerry Haines Sr. wrote on Jul 3, 2008 2:12 PM:

" Regarding "Sealing of the Sexual Abuse case" by the judical system. All sexual abuse cases should be made public. Sexual abuse crimes are one of the worst things that can happen to a person. Usually the person is damaged for the rest of their life. The crime should be exposed for what is and the criminal and their punishment publised for all to read. By this we know how our legal system is working and should be a deterrent and warning to other who are contemplating doing these kinds of crimes. "

DENNY CRONER wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:31 AM:

" In response to the Payette Prosecutor's Office "sealing" court records:

As a retired law enforcement officer I find it unconscionable that the taxpayers spend thousands of dollars on the judicial process and the results of same (which serve as a deterrent to others) are not made known. "

ANTI SRCI SIGNSHOP wrote on Jun 25, 2008 12:09 PM:

" In respose to Larry anbd saving tax payers money.

Larry,
So what you are saying is it ok for SRCI to take business from local area if it saves you (tax payer money)?

Thier are rules were made so SRCI did not impact local businesses. "

SRCI not as good as we think wrote on Jun 23, 2008 9:27 AM:

" A local representative was contacted on SRCI taking business from locals and the response was I have heard this, let me get back to you.

That was the last that was ever heard from him. I think our local government is afraid to say anything against the prison as they are a main employer. "

Re Decades of Dresses wrote on Jun 17, 2008 7:49 PM:

" My neighbor and I drove over to Fruitland to view this display and had a fabulous afternoon. This was more than a collection of unique wedding gowns. It was a walk through the history of Fruitland. Beautifully displayed and very nicely hostessed. Thank you, Argus, for featuring this event. Otherwise, we wouldn't have known about it. L. Keltz "

Larry wrote on Jun 12, 2008 1:35 PM:

" How bout if the SRCI sign shop saves taxpayer money? ( State highway and city street signage.) I am 100 % in favor of public entities shopping locally but, it doesn't always mean money well spent.

I am not sure if there are any local outfits tat can meet DOT specs for signage or is there? "

SRCI hurts local businesses wrote on Jun 12, 2008 7:29 AM:

" I know a lot of people are for the local prison (SRCI) but do you know that they go against policy and take work from local small business.

Some of you may not know that SRCI has a sign shop that has inmates working in it. While it is good to teach inmates a trade this allows the prison to undercut local sign shops and take the business from them.

It is my understanding that this is against the rules. They are not supposed to bid against local business for work. I know FIRST HAND that this is happening as I have talked to the people getting the work done and they have said that they were told to not spread it around that they got the work done at SRCI.

I think our local city council should look into this and find out why this is happening and make it stop. The prison is not there to put local small business out. We should be outraged that this is happening.

The local fair county fair grounds had all thier signs made there. Should they have not tried to support the county? How can this happen. Come on city officials and start walking the walk. "

LethargicQuip wrote on May 13, 2008 10:21 PM:

" The postmaster placed a yellow bag in my box last week. I was supposed to fill it up with non-perishable food and leave it out there for the mailman to pick up for the food bank.
Then I thought of a couple of neighbors who are always smoking pot, painting the town ugly and getting themselves a grab bag once a month. Oh, and then there's the village idiot who is always capable of being an ungrateful schmattass.
Forget it, I filled my sack with garbage and set it in the dumpster. "

RLE wrote on Apr 30, 2008 5:57 PM:

" Mr.Doug Dean, I'm going to make a wild guess here based on your arrogant and demeaning statement(tues Argus Ideas flourish with revenue board.)in reference to fixed income and poor persons. I'm guessing you are not a native of Malheur County. You have a fair amount of disposable income. Your arrogant and maybe self serving. Enough said? Your 3% food and beverage idea was worth considering until you made the less than intelligent remark about all of us who are on fixed incomes and may also be poor. Yep we are less likely to go out than you rich folks but when we do scrape enough pennies together to go out we sure do not want to be adversely effected by your whacked out idea . Maybe you should put your disposable income on hold for a month and live like the rest of us then you might think twice before making more demeaning and arrogant statements. I think you might need our support at some point in time Doug. Think about it................ "

Crappy little town on the high desert wrote on Apr 28, 2008 12:35 PM:

" It's too bad about the soccer photos. If the sun is not at your back, don't take the shot. A whole set was ruined.
Now, would you have me waste more time reading poor grammar or just serve up more award winning pictures?
I think I would rather just type into the wind and never see my comments posted. Why bother to craft anything special when the IRS can't read either? Oh, you expect me to follow the rules yet every other momma grabber expects the government to feed, clothe and house their innocents while they go out on another beer run to fetch more cigarettes?
Well the taking is over. I'm not carrying anyone else's water anymore. My little protest won't make a dent but there's a principle involved and I hope at least one kid sees the light before expending any effort to do what is "right." "

Western Easterner wrote on Apr 27, 2008 4:52 PM:

" Is it just me, or is Ray the only one doing anything in the sports department? Looking through today's articles, he has the majority of what's written. Several others day "Sports Staff" but it wouldn't surprise me if he did most of the work getting that material. And just out of curiousity, I looked through the photo gallery, and found that he has the majority of the pictures. In fact, on one page, Scott had about three sets. Matt Neal had nothing and the rest were all attributed to Ray. I know Ray pretty well, and I know he is a hard worker, but come on! He needs some help!
Is it just me seeing this? Or is there anyone else that is seeing this too? "

trevor wrote on Apr 25, 2008 8:15 AM:

" Oh yeah, our clown's vacation lasted a whole day and a half. It didn't take long for him to start running his smart mouth in the cooler. He got himself pounded once before so the sheriff doesn't know what else to do with his problem but turn it loose back on the street. "

to Trevor wrote on Apr 23, 2008 4:37 PM:

" I do think the idiot has the courts fooled. So I think the Judge might be the bigger idiot. And we're paying for both!!!! "

to Trevor wrote on Apr 23, 2008 1:05 PM:

" What are you talking about? "

trevor wrote on Apr 23, 2008 11:31 AM:

" I was giddy as a school girl this morning when I learned the all-American idiot had his routines disrupted and was hauled off to the slammer. The euphoria lasted but a mere few seconds, life goes on. The idiot's handlers were warning him last week that he might have to spend the rest of his probation in jail. That would mean a summer of contentment for me but I don't expect that. The jerk with the grin won't need a lawyer to get him out when he can do better by representing himself. The wannabee comedian will use his natural charm until the other inmates get aggravated sufficiently to threaten a beating and the sheriff goes soft to let him out.

Meanwhile, his two bedroom house sits empty and his food stamps collect unspent. If the inmates decide not to issue a warning and simply start whaling on him, he's got good medical insurance. It really pays to be an idiot, a registered sexual offender village idiot. "

Whatever wrote on Apr 22, 2008 1:29 PM:

" To mother of 4,
you might want to check on the cost you have heard about, I hear it's about 20 thousand more?
"

Mother of 4 wrote on Apr 15, 2008 11:57 PM:

" BUDGET, I am so with you on this new database program and equipment the school district is purchasing --for a measly 53,000 dollars, I was told. I am not opposed to spending money to improve the schools, but I would like that money to have some effect on the students and their learning/achievement. This expensive new item, as it has been described to me, will take the place of something they already have that seems to be sufficient. Spend the money on improved math or science. Spend the money to offer stimulating electives. But, for pete's sake, don't go spending it flagrantly on management junk. That's just asking for angry patrons. I might add that I am not at all impressed to hear that "the Boise schools have it and they love it." I want to know, how will this positively affect the students and the education they receive. Times are tough. The belt of the Fruitland District needs to be cinched a little tighter. "

To Bill wrote on Apr 14, 2008 4:02 PM:

" Man, can we agree you are a angry man! This person you responded to gave thier opion, nothing more.

Here's to a happy, fruitful life in Ontario. "

bill wrote on Apr 11, 2008 2:05 PM:

" move or not to move please leave. I have lived in ontario for 28 years, and have no regreats. Sure things are not easy right now, but is it great anywhere. What exactly do you not like in ontario. The lack of traffic, no sales tax. Who really cares about the stupid pool. Please move back where you came from. idiot "

The "ALMIGHTY" media by ANOTHER inmate's "PROUD" WIFE wrote on Apr 11, 2008 2:04 PM:

" All hail the Almighty Media! It seems the general belief is, the media is influencing the people of the world and shaping how they view events, themselves, and their lives, and there is nothing people can do to stop it. In clinical terms this is called projection. It's where a person projects blame on something or someone to escape taking responsibility for their actions. The media is not almighty. Mass Media is based on the dissemination of words, pictures, or sounds to an observing audience. The key word in the last sentence is "observing." Without a willing observer the media becomes the tree that falls in the woods when no one is there and everyone asks does it make a sound. Of course it makes a sound but if no one hears it, no one really cares? We care about what media says because we pay attention to what it says. Media affects us because we make ourselves available to its influences and lies. The power to control the influence of media is not only in controlling what it delivers, but it is also in being able to ignore what it is saying.

Giving time to the prison (officers) or doing time in the prison (inmates) aren't always what they're portrayed.
"

the count is 10 wrote on Apr 11, 2008 9:47 AM:

" The count is 10, with this blog the count is 11. Come on Argus, get busy and do your job "

Wake Up Argus wrote on Apr 9, 2008 2:00 PM:

" Can anyone count at the Argus? I mean, you invite us to write our own blog, and then you don't even count it...
What's up with that? "

Budget wrote on Apr 1, 2008 10:49 AM:

" OK, does someone want to find out where Fruitland Schools come up with all their extra money?
I mean,good gosh buying a new Student Data Base program even thought the one they have been using for the past who know's how long is still current and working fine, they are ready and willing to spend THOUSANDS and THOUSANDS of dollars for a new one? I'm sure that wont even include the price of implementing, training or converting over the old data? Where does all this money come from? I would hate to think we should spend it on teachers or even students? After all are we not there for the students not the ADMINISTRATION!!!
How much "look at what we got" does Fruitland need? "

Jack wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:35 AM:

" To just thinking, amen brother or sister. "

Hee, Hee wrote on Mar 24, 2008 8:58 AM:

" This is all so funny, Ontarion got just what they deserved a idiot for a Mayor. "

Just thinking wrote on Mar 24, 2008 7:21 AM:

" I don't know why everyone is complaining, according to Sundays Opinion page by our "voice of reason" Editor and Idaho resident, There were a few "minor" flare ups and "some itsy bitsy" confusion on the part of some of the council members. This "minor bump on the road" no doubt, will lead us to an epiphany and all will be resolved. However, according to Pat, we need to go back and find out what went wrong in the past. As for the committee that Pat praises as a great idea, they need to let our mayor guide them. what's so bad about our mayor hand picking the people he decides are worthy? after all didn't he do an excellent job of had picking all the other committees now in place?? (ie. Public works) What I would like to know is (who were the fortunate people who received a personal invitation from our mayor?) Since it seems they are not to bring up the dreaded 1% tax, one of them couldn't be our editor right? Oh, I forgot he can't be, he's not a resident. I for one, wouldn't mind paying a tax if it were taken off my utilities, many of my retired friends feel the same. Too bad I won't be bringing my request to our elected officials, I am not the voice of reason, and the Mayor (our boss) has already made up his mind, no 1% tax "

You Decide wrote on Mar 23, 2008 7:59 PM:

" Read sundays Argus. The City needs a gang task force, the Mayor supports it. The City is projecting $800,000 - $2.5 million short in next budget go around. There is no support for addtional revenue. Where is the money coming from. Will the gang activity pick up when the City closes the library and pool? Is the City becoming proactive because they know it is a possiblity if they close the library & pool. "

Move here (not) wrote on Mar 21, 2008 5:36 PM:

" For residential, forget it. For commercial you could not ask for a better place to locate. No support for a new school, no finical support for the library or aquatic center, no support for the golf course, residents will continue paying for impacts from businesses, and no future City funding to support it’s needs. What do you think will happen to the value of your home? "

Move or not to Move wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:41 AM:

" No! Really folks, don't move to Ontario. I regret moving to Ontario, I regret voting for Joe for change, I regret having to write this on the blog. I really and truely thought change would be exactly what we needed. Boy, I was wrong in a big way, and Ontario is going down fast. "

dick wrote on Mar 15, 2008 5:46 PM:

" Should I move to Ontario? Why? "

dick wrote on Mar 13, 2008 4:28 PM:

" Should I move to Ontario? Why? "

TERMS OF USE

Those who post comments are accountable for the opinions they express and the accuracy of the information they furnish. While we encourage writers to utilize this service on our Web site, we also strongly suggest they treat it as public forum where good taste counts. We reserve the right to decline for approval objectionable material from these blogs.

Writers that include profanity or personal attacks or other inappropriate comments - such as racists language, threats or comments unrelated to the story - will not be approved for the blogs. Also, entries that are unsigned or "signatures" by someone other than the actual writer will not be approved.

While writers can still post anonymously, we strongly suggest that they do not do so.

Opinions, guidance and other information expressed in Argus Observer story blog comments and on the Argus Observer blogs represent the individuals' own views and not necessarily those of the Argus Observer. The Argus Observer furnishes this type of forum and does not endorse and is not accountable for statements or advice from anyone other than an designated Argus Observer spokesperson.