My wife and I have a little tradition where at least once a week, I try to meet her downtown for lunch with me and my daughter. I used to be patient and knew the best street parking and was usually very successful at finding a spot within a good distance of her building. That all changed when Tri-Met began laying new lightrail tracks down 5th and 6th and moved the "bus mall" over to 3rd and 4th. Now, in addition to sharing those already busy streets with numerous buses, we lost a large amount of parking spots that were converted to bus stops. No biggy, since it's temporary and at least per Tri-Met, necessary for growth.
I then began parking in the local SmartPark garage near my wife's office building. My frustration level for other drivers/parkers has risen, and today was ultimate in that frustration.
First off, let me tell you my theory and how I view a parking garage. Parking garages go up...this is what allows so many people to park in such a small area (building footprint wise). So while I may be parked two floors above you, I'm technically only 20 feet away. So given that, to me, there really isn't a bad spot to be had in a parking garage. Parking on a higher floor only increases your travel time by maybe 20-30 seconds as that is how much longer you may have to wait. Although I would argue that since you're most likely heading down the elevator, it evens out since you'll be picked up before the people two floors down. So therefore...waiting a minute or two for that person to pull out of their spot on the 5th floor isn't doing anyone any good as you're actually slowing yourself down, not to mention creating a line of 5 cars behind you that have no where to go.
I experienced this today as it took me literally 5 minutes to get to the top floor (8th) where guess what, there were so many spaces I had trouble choosing which one I liked best.
Another pet peeve...learn how to park within the lines. Now, I'll be the first to admit that those spots are small as they are obviously trying to cram as many in as they can for revenue's sake. Except for those folks driving Hummers, we can all fit between the lines, if we just take that extra moment and actually try. When parking upstairs today, I chose a spot between two cars, even though there were plenty of empty ones. My reasoning, I was driving my truck (longer than most cars) and I would impede a lot of progress in parking in many of the spots. As I pull into the spot, I realize it aint happening because the car on the left is over the line and I would not be able to get out. As I drive on in frustration, I see the car that started it all. Someone came in at an angle, parked at the obscure angle, wheels still turned and all and just left it there. A simple 30 seconds to straighten their car out would have allowed anyone to park in anyone of those spots. But no, that person is obviously too busy, or important to, so now, everyone who parks there had to shift over to account for that person.
Oh, I'm not done with this trip. I also witnessed another person park their full size sedan in a compact spot. This compact spot was kind of perpendicular to the spot next to it so by parking this car not designed for it, they actually blocked the other car from being able to back out. I watched as the driver got out, noticed it, but did nothing, since she "scored" a spot on the 3rd floor and didn't have to drive up a few more floors.
And lastly, upon heading out of the garage, I round the corner to be almost hit head on by some trying to sneak down the wrong way to snag a spot. Heaven forbid he have to drive the extra half lap around the garage to get to that spot the right way.
So here's the deal on parking garages. First, take the time to park correctly, correct it if you have to. Second, remember that while waiting a minute or two for that spot on the 4th floor, the 7th and 8th floors are wide open and you'd already be on your way down. Third, be patient and be considerate. Don't sneak down the wrong way and don't block others in, even if that person parked badly. Be the better driver and move on to the next spot!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Monday, November 10, 2008
I'm sorry but you can't park there!
Ok, I have a new guilty pleasure and it's a show called Parking Wars on A&E. Yes, it's yet another reality show, but it's a good one and not for the reason you may think. The basis of the show is following the Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) a they go about their jobs patrolling the streets of Philadelphia for illegally parked cars.
They break the action into four groups. The first group is the actual ticket writers who walk the streets. The second group are the "booters" whose primary job is driving around, checking plates and placing boots on any car with three or more expired tags. The third group are the two truck drivers and the fourth group is the employees who work at the impound lot. Each group has it's own uniqueness and while they are funny and have some tense moments with irate "parkers", the best part (or scariest) is the reactions of most of these people.
I am truly floored by, and find myself laughing at most of these people. The reason I laugh is pure and simple. These people get busted for breaking the law (regardless how minor the offense) and the anger and excuses that spew forth from these people is amazing. Without going into specific stories, the common theme among them is how it's everyone elses fault. Philadelphia (PA), like most, if not all states, requires insured vehicles. So, it makes sense that when you go to pick up your impounded vehicle, that not only do you have to show that the vehicle is insured, you have to show that you also have a valid drivers license. I have to say that my favorite part was watching all of the people who thought that this was the most ridiculous request and were beside themselves for having to provide this information. A couple of the episodes show people who did have insurance, but just not an updated card with them. So what would be your next step? I would call my insurance company and ask them for an updated proof of insurance. Apparently I'm alone on that one as every single person shown felt it was the parking authorities responsibility to track down their insurance agent and get the information needed.
I guess the sad part of it for me is that it really shows how we're transitioning to a world of nobody ever being at fault and taking responsibility for their own actions. If there is someone else to blame, let's do that because it's easier than looking within to find out what really went wrong and if it's something we can change!
The best part of the show is the reactions of people. One lady who's car was being booted, came out, jumped in her car and tried to take off while the boot as on. After a couple back and forths, she did manage to break the boot off, but not before destroying the entire inner fender of her car. I am sure that the damage she caused in trying to "flee" was more than the $130 she had in unpaid parking tickets, that would have prevented the boot in the first place. But that's right, it's the cities fault for putting the no parking signs where they were, or for not feeding her meter when it ran out, etc.
In conclusion, just watch the show! It's entertaining to say the least. The editing is humorous and they do a great job of interjecting little funny spots here and there. You'll also be surprised at the interactions amongst the people o the city. I watch it and say to myself (I just don't see that happening here in Portland...why? That's for a different post
altogether)
They break the action into four groups. The first group is the actual ticket writers who walk the streets. The second group are the "booters" whose primary job is driving around, checking plates and placing boots on any car with three or more expired tags. The third group are the two truck drivers and the fourth group is the employees who work at the impound lot. Each group has it's own uniqueness and while they are funny and have some tense moments with irate "parkers", the best part (or scariest) is the reactions of most of these people.
I am truly floored by, and find myself laughing at most of these people. The reason I laugh is pure and simple. These people get busted for breaking the law (regardless how minor the offense) and the anger and excuses that spew forth from these people is amazing. Without going into specific stories, the common theme among them is how it's everyone elses fault. Philadelphia (PA), like most, if not all states, requires insured vehicles. So, it makes sense that when you go to pick up your impounded vehicle, that not only do you have to show that the vehicle is insured, you have to show that you also have a valid drivers license. I have to say that my favorite part was watching all of the people who thought that this was the most ridiculous request and were beside themselves for having to provide this information. A couple of the episodes show people who did have insurance, but just not an updated card with them. So what would be your next step? I would call my insurance company and ask them for an updated proof of insurance. Apparently I'm alone on that one as every single person shown felt it was the parking authorities responsibility to track down their insurance agent and get the information needed.
I guess the sad part of it for me is that it really shows how we're transitioning to a world of nobody ever being at fault and taking responsibility for their own actions. If there is someone else to blame, let's do that because it's easier than looking within to find out what really went wrong and if it's something we can change!
The best part of the show is the reactions of people. One lady who's car was being booted, came out, jumped in her car and tried to take off while the boot as on. After a couple back and forths, she did manage to break the boot off, but not before destroying the entire inner fender of her car. I am sure that the damage she caused in trying to "flee" was more than the $130 she had in unpaid parking tickets, that would have prevented the boot in the first place. But that's right, it's the cities fault for putting the no parking signs where they were, or for not feeding her meter when it ran out, etc.
In conclusion, just watch the show! It's entertaining to say the least. The editing is humorous and they do a great job of interjecting little funny spots here and there. You'll also be surprised at the interactions amongst the people o the city. I watch it and say to myself (I just don't see that happening here in Portland...why? That's for a different post
altogether)
Friday, November 7, 2008
Poli-Tics Me Off!
/rant on
I read the following article about Sen. Joe Lieberman earlier today and to me, it really signifies what is wrong with our political system these days. The short of it is that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid met with Mr. Lieberman and discussed that he was thinking of removing Lieberman from his position as the chairman of the Homeland Security Committee.
What did Lieberman do that he deserves to be booted from his committee? Scandal? Corruption? Abuse of the position? No, far worse! As an independent, he had the audacity to back John McCain during the election. Yes, Lieberman is still a democrat for all intents and purposes and only switched to an independent when he wasn't elected as a democrat, but in true independent style, backed the candidate he felt was best for the position. How dare you Mr. Lieberman. How dare you vote your heart and not what your political party tells you.
So why now, why, two only days after the election is this being discussed? It's easy, the democrats improved their position in the senate and now have 55 seats as the majority party. But Brad, they have been the majority for a while now, what did this change? Well, you see, the majority they had was 51-49 because of two independents who generally voted with the democrats. I bet you can guess who one of those independents is.
Now, after this election, the democrats hold 55 seats, plus their two independents. Mr. Liebermans vote is no longer "needed" to complete the majority. Now, the swift arm of punishment may swing down upon his head and drive him back into his place.
This is precisely what is wrong with politics today! Our politicians are not concerned with making sure the peoples voices are heard...they are concerned that their own voices are heard, and that the leaders of their respective parties are heard.
To Mr. Lieberman I say kudos to you for doing what you felt was right. To Mr. Reed and the other democrats supporting him, why don't we worry about the economy, jobs, and the housing market and not worry about finding replacements for committee members getting the boot because you don't like the way he voted.
/rant off
I read the following article about Sen. Joe Lieberman earlier today and to me, it really signifies what is wrong with our political system these days. The short of it is that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid met with Mr. Lieberman and discussed that he was thinking of removing Lieberman from his position as the chairman of the Homeland Security Committee.
What did Lieberman do that he deserves to be booted from his committee? Scandal? Corruption? Abuse of the position? No, far worse! As an independent, he had the audacity to back John McCain during the election. Yes, Lieberman is still a democrat for all intents and purposes and only switched to an independent when he wasn't elected as a democrat, but in true independent style, backed the candidate he felt was best for the position. How dare you Mr. Lieberman. How dare you vote your heart and not what your political party tells you.
So why now, why, two only days after the election is this being discussed? It's easy, the democrats improved their position in the senate and now have 55 seats as the majority party. But Brad, they have been the majority for a while now, what did this change? Well, you see, the majority they had was 51-49 because of two independents who generally voted with the democrats. I bet you can guess who one of those independents is.
Now, after this election, the democrats hold 55 seats, plus their two independents. Mr. Liebermans vote is no longer "needed" to complete the majority. Now, the swift arm of punishment may swing down upon his head and drive him back into his place.
This is precisely what is wrong with politics today! Our politicians are not concerned with making sure the peoples voices are heard...they are concerned that their own voices are heard, and that the leaders of their respective parties are heard.
To Mr. Lieberman I say kudos to you for doing what you felt was right. To Mr. Reed and the other democrats supporting him, why don't we worry about the economy, jobs, and the housing market and not worry about finding replacements for committee members getting the boot because you don't like the way he voted.
/rant off
Double Torture
For those that know me well, it is no secret that my wife and I have become huge fans of Dutch Bros Coffee. The main reason we started frequenting their drive thrus was the fact that they offer maple lattes year round, unlike a large coffee chain that only sells them during the fall.
Over many trips there, I discovered how much better the coffee was in addition to being a little bit cheaper. I think one reason they are becoming popular is their propensity for hiring younger, more energetic folks. It is not uncommon to pull up and hear something thumping tunes and see some dancing workers. I get the impression that most of them truly enjoy their jobs.
Nothing against the artsy fartsy types that tend to work at other chain shops. We will always need the arts and the farts to keep our society from becoming bland and bloated. I have yet to meet an employee who fits this description working at Dutch Bros...and I have been to numerous different locations so I can fairly make that statement.
So why did I call this post "Double Torture"? Well, for those of you familiar with Dutch Bros, you already know what I am talking about. The Double Torture is a drink that I tried for the first time recently and I am in love.
Picture this, instead of steaming white milk, they throw back to the days of elementary school when nothing beat a chocolate milk for lunch. To this now steamy chocolate milk they add some vanilla and the "piece de resistance", 6 shots of espresso. No, that's not a typo, 6 shots!
Now before you picture me running down the street like some crazed dope fiend being chased by the police, it's important to remember some facts about coffee and caffeine! Check out this site for all the details you could ever want about coffee and caffeine. For those who don't want to read the entire site, here's the short version. Espresso has less caffeine for the main reason that the way it's roasted (dark) removes more caffeine than a lighter, standard coffe roast. Also, the short time it's in contact with the water during the brew process doesn't allow for as much caffeine absorption. So, 3 shots of espresso has less caffeine that a standard 12 oz coffee. Therefore my Double Torture essentially contains the same amount of Caffeine as a large brewed coffee at any standard coffee house.
So no, you will not see me in the next episode of "Cops" being tazed and tackled because of my Double Torture coffee high! Although the mental images of that episode are now running through my head and causing quite the laugh, at least to me. "Sir, put the coffee cup down and back away slowly."
For those of you who have never tried Dutch Bros, be sure to stop in the next time you pass one. You don't have to get the Double Torture, but if you're in the mood for something different, give it a shot (or 6) and I promise you won't be dissapointed.
etc.
Over many trips there, I discovered how much better the coffee was in addition to being a little bit cheaper. I think one reason they are becoming popular is their propensity for hiring younger, more energetic folks. It is not uncommon to pull up and hear something thumping tunes and see some dancing workers. I get the impression that most of them truly enjoy their jobs.
Nothing against the artsy fartsy types that tend to work at other chain shops. We will always need the arts and the farts to keep our society from becoming bland and bloated. I have yet to meet an employee who fits this description working at Dutch Bros...and I have been to numerous different locations so I can fairly make that statement.
So why did I call this post "Double Torture"? Well, for those of you familiar with Dutch Bros, you already know what I am talking about. The Double Torture is a drink that I tried for the first time recently and I am in love.
Picture this, instead of steaming white milk, they throw back to the days of elementary school when nothing beat a chocolate milk for lunch. To this now steamy chocolate milk they add some vanilla and the "piece de resistance", 6 shots of espresso. No, that's not a typo, 6 shots!
Now before you picture me running down the street like some crazed dope fiend being chased by the police, it's important to remember some facts about coffee and caffeine! Check out this site for all the details you could ever want about coffee and caffeine. For those who don't want to read the entire site, here's the short version. Espresso has less caffeine for the main reason that the way it's roasted (dark) removes more caffeine than a lighter, standard coffe roast. Also, the short time it's in contact with the water during the brew process doesn't allow for as much caffeine absorption. So, 3 shots of espresso has less caffeine that a standard 12 oz coffee. Therefore my Double Torture essentially contains the same amount of Caffeine as a large brewed coffee at any standard coffee house.
So no, you will not see me in the next episode of "Cops" being tazed and tackled because of my Double Torture coffee high! Although the mental images of that episode are now running through my head and causing quite the laugh, at least to me. "Sir, put the coffee cup down and back away slowly."
For those of you who have never tried Dutch Bros, be sure to stop in the next time you pass one. You don't have to get the Double Torture, but if you're in the mood for something different, give it a shot (or 6) and I promise you won't be dissapointed.
etc.
What are your intentions?
I recently was introduced to this new world of blogging. Well, we were introduced a while ago, but I finally got around to giving it a try and so here I am. Ok, this is actually attempt two, but let me explain. I began bloggin at ActiveRain a couple of weeks ago. It's a great website and is actually geared towards the real estate industry. The only problem is that posting non real estate related content, while allowed, is strange because you can only post non real estate related content to other agents, not general consumers who may be perusing the site.
So, given that, I decided to start a blog here so that I can pretty much post whatever, whenever. I will still post real estate related content at ActiveRain, but everything else will be found here
A little bit about the name of this blog. When I first began thinking about getting my real estate license, my wife and I had some long conversations regarding how things would look. I decided at that time that I was not going to be a traditional real estate agent. I decided that relationships and honest interaction were going to be my cornerstone. After working with my on a transaction, I never want anyone to feel as though they were not far removed from a used car salesman. No offense to the used car salesman out there. Like them, there are always the bad apples that ruin it for the rest of us.
One transaction at a time has become my motto. While I may not be able to change the industry or how it's viewed, I can at least do my part and know that I can be a positive influence on those I work with throughout my career..."One Transaction at a Time"!
So, given that, I decided to start a blog here so that I can pretty much post whatever, whenever. I will still post real estate related content at ActiveRain, but everything else will be found here
A little bit about the name of this blog. When I first began thinking about getting my real estate license, my wife and I had some long conversations regarding how things would look. I decided at that time that I was not going to be a traditional real estate agent. I decided that relationships and honest interaction were going to be my cornerstone. After working with my on a transaction, I never want anyone to feel as though they were not far removed from a used car salesman. No offense to the used car salesman out there. Like them, there are always the bad apples that ruin it for the rest of us.
One transaction at a time has become my motto. While I may not be able to change the industry or how it's viewed, I can at least do my part and know that I can be a positive influence on those I work with throughout my career..."One Transaction at a Time"!
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