http://ignoregon.com/rss/salem Aggregated Blog Posts From Salem Wed, 10 Mar 2010 22:23:19 +0000 en http://hinessight.blogs.com/church_of_the_churchless/2010/03/become-a-better-person-first-a-perfect-divine-being-second.html http://hinessight.blogs.com/church_of_the_churchless/2010/03/become-a-better-person-first-a-perfect-divine-being-second.html Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:51:00 +0000 Often people attracted to spirituality want to skip the whole human being thing and jump directly into some supposed metaphysical realm. Christians base their lives on being saved and getting a pass to enter heaven after death; Buddhists, Hindus, and... http://blogit.crackback.net/archives/2010/03/10/2010-census/ http://blogit.crackback.net/archives/2010/03/10/2010-census/ Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:29:00 +0000 First, I am not going to get all political or righteous or whatever regarding the census itself. I plan to fill out the basics of what is required and no more, and do my part. I also pay my taxes and obey laws (well, say 95% of them–I may do 5-7 miles over [...] http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/CreatureBug/~3/ymxPHqqP37g/the-frog-pond.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/CreatureBug/~3/ymxPHqqP37g/the-frog-pond.html Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:57:00 +0000 When people asked us why we were moving from Oregon to Washington, the answer was always the same: to be near family and live on the Family Farm. The two things go together, of course, although living on the Family... http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/eatsalem/~3/Ol-ZOAW7Xwo/google-map-search-for-restaurants.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/eatsalem/~3/Ol-ZOAW7Xwo/google-map-search-for-restaurants.html Wed, 10 Mar 2010 10:25:00 +0000 If geography is a factor in how you decide where to eat you should try searching the word "restaurant" in Google Maps. It's not exactly a new technology but I rediscovered it this morning and thought it would be an interesting discussion for eatsalem.com. View Larger Map With gas prices on the rise, you may not want to go far to eat out. When I looked at the map, I didn't realize there were so http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TravelOregon/~3/HrkIOeRM4pE/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TravelOregon/~3/HrkIOeRM4pE/ Wed, 10 Mar 2010 10:09:00 +0000 Until last week I had never really experienced the Wild West. In fact, the closest I I’ve been to homesteading was helping gather eggs from my friend’s urban chicken coop (and when I say helping, ... http://salemphotodiary.blogspot.com/2010/03/nature-trail-attractions.html http://salemphotodiary.blogspot.com/2010/03/nature-trail-attractions.html Wed, 10 Mar 2010 01:00:00 +0000 Historic Deepwood Estate1116 Mission St SESalem, Oregon 97302 http://hinessight.blogs.com/hinessight/2010/03/jim-huffman-out-of-touch-with-oregonians.html http://hinessight.blogs.com/hinessight/2010/03/jim-huffman-out-of-touch-with-oregonians.html Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:35:00 +0000 I doubt that our senior senator here in Oregon, Ron Wyden, is losing sleep over Jim Huffman's announcement that he's seeking the Republican nomination to challenge Wyden next November. At least, I assume Huffman is running as a Republican. You... http://causaoregon.blogspot.com/2010/03/forum-with-civil-rights-leader-dolores.html http://causaoregon.blogspot.com/2010/03/forum-with-civil-rights-leader-dolores.html Tue, 9 Mar 2010 19:06:00 +0000 CAUSA Oregon, the Census Bureau and the Chemeketa Community College Multicultural Center invite you to a forum with Civil Rights leaderDolores Huerta DATE & TIME: Friday, March 12, 2010 at 7pmLOCATION: Chemeketa Community College, Building 2, 4000 Lancaster Dr. NE, SalemTHEME: WE ALL COUNT, THE IMPORTANCE OF U.S. CENSUS 2010For more information call: (503) 984-6816 or (206)478-2449Dolores C. Huerta is the co-founder and First Vice President Emeritus of the United Farm Workers of America. The mother of 11 children, 14 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, Dolores has played a major role in the American civil rights movement. At 79, Dolores still works long hours for the union that she co-founded and nurtured. She travels throughout North America promoting "La Causa" (the cause of the farm workers) and women's rights. Huerta has been a trusted friend and advisor to Cesar Chavez for over 30 years. Together, they founded the Robert F. Kennedy Medical Plan, the Juan de la Cruz Pension fund for farm workers, and the farm workers credit union, the first of its kind. They also formed the National Farm Workers Service Center, Inc., a community organization designed around economic hostels and five Spanish radio stations. http://capitalpress.blogspot.com/2010/03/commodity-prices-find-home-at.html http://capitalpress.blogspot.com/2010/03/commodity-prices-find-home-at.html Tue, 9 Mar 2010 12:25:00 +0000 I took the commodity price charts off the Blogriculture site. We now feature the same price information on the main capitalpress.com website, in expanded versions that show a graph of the price trend for your commodity of choice.We started out with the market prices here, in part, because on our old website software made it more difficult to add that type of information and the in our old layout http://techcraver.com/2010/03/09/test-post-from-n900/ http://techcraver.com/2010/03/09/test-post-from-n900/ Tue, 9 Mar 2010 10:36:00 +0000 I am writing this post from the Wordpress app on a Nokia N900 running Maemo 5. The app uses Qt. Nice! Post from: Techcraver.com | Craving Tech, Craving Life!Test post from N900 Post from: Techcraver.com | Craving Tech, Craving Life!Test post from N900 http://causaoregon.blogspot.com/2010/03/eugene-city-council-passes-resolution.html http://causaoregon.blogspot.com/2010/03/eugene-city-council-passes-resolution.html Tue, 9 Mar 2010 10:26:00 +0000 Eugene, Ore--Last night, the Eugene City Council passed a Resolution supporting the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act.The DREAM Act, which was introduced in Congress last year, authorizes the cancellation and the adjustment of status for certain immigrant youths who are college bound and are long term United States Residents. It would also permit states to determine state residency for purposes of higher education.After a public forum, Resolution 5001 was voted on and passed by the city council unanimously. The meeting was well attended with most being in support of the Resolution. Although Resolution 5001 does not affect federal legislation, the Eugene City Council joins the growing multitude of voices around the nation calling for Congress to pass the DREAM Act. Last October, members of the Portland City Council passed a similar resolution unanimously.Resources:Adoption of Resolution 5001 Supporting Passage of the DREAM ActWebcast: March 8, 2010 Eugene City Council Meeting http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TravelOregon/~3/U8v4pHwjoLk/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TravelOregon/~3/U8v4pHwjoLk/ Tue, 9 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0000 In a late-coming third part conclusion (see part 1 and part 2) here are my final notes from our visit to the Seven of Hearts tasting room in Carlton. These last two wines are both ... http://hinessight.blogs.com/church_of_the_churchless/2010/03/best-reason-why-god-doesnt-exist.html http://hinessight.blogs.com/church_of_the_churchless/2010/03/best-reason-why-god-doesnt-exist.html Tue, 9 Mar 2010 00:42:00 +0000 Does God exist? People have been trying to answer this question for thousands of years. As I wrote about in this post, a philosophical novel sets out 36 arguments for the existence of God (listed here; scroll down to read... http://salemphotodiary.blogspot.com/2010/03/young-equestrian.html http://salemphotodiary.blogspot.com/2010/03/young-equestrian.html Mon, 8 Mar 2010 23:13:00 +0000 NW Buckskin Club Horse ShowMarch 5 - 7, 2010English Pleasure ClassCalapooia ArenaLinn County Fairgrounds and Expo Center3700 Knox Butte RdAlbany, OR http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/eatsalem/~3/9Xbm5cXfUms/salem-dining-scene-changes.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/eatsalem/~3/9Xbm5cXfUms/salem-dining-scene-changes.html Mon, 8 Mar 2010 22:09:00 +0000 Closings:  Roxxy's,Coffee Paradigm, Blue Pepper, Cafe Milan, J. James, Tater's Cafe, Openings:  Tuff Ranch, San Diego Taco Co., Soy BBQ, Prudence Uncorked, Caffe 680, Cinebarre, Willamette Burger Co., Wild Pineapple, Bakery D'Amour, Maynard's Bakery, New Second Locations: Soba, Sushi Kyo Soon to be opening: The Islander (in Marco Polo's old location), Five Guys Burgers Reopening:  http://www.oregonsenatedemocrats.com/press-releases/oregon-senate-democrats-release-2010-accomplishments http://www.oregonsenatedemocrats.com/press-releases/oregon-senate-democrats-release-2010-accomplishments Mon, 8 Mar 2010 19:17:00 +0000 Highlights include work to create jobs and help middle class families Senate Democrats released summaries of their accomplishments for the 2010 February Session online today. The issue areas emphasize the caucus’ commitment to helping middle class families, supporting small businesses, and working to create jobs for out-of-work Oregonians. “The February session illustrated that we can accomplish important [...] http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/mattneznanski/~3/0WulT3LvPxE/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/mattneznanski/~3/0WulT3LvPxE/ Mon, 8 Mar 2010 17:25:00 +0000 Calls for community newspapers to have a strategy for the iPad are misguided -- unless they're really suggesting a whole new way of gathering and presenting information. Possibly related posts:Make new friends, but keep the old… Creating distinct roles for print and online http://williambragg.com/blog/2010/03/08/hungry/ http://williambragg.com/blog/2010/03/08/hungry/ Mon, 8 Mar 2010 17:02:00 +0000 Greek Burger, Venti’s Cafe, Salem, Oregon. http://dogsanddragonflies.blogspot.com/2010/03/women-lets-talk-about-sex.html http://dogsanddragonflies.blogspot.com/2010/03/women-lets-talk-about-sex.html Mon, 8 Mar 2010 13:23:00 +0000 Sex is an issue which divides generations, gender, education, class and just about everything else, despite being a simple fact of life for 100% of the human race. Especially in a culture where sex is everywhere but at the same time forbidden and sordid, open honest and truthful information about the subject is a positive contribution to the life of the individual, the community and yes, even the world.Salem, Oregon is now home to a female owned, women oriented shop selling sensual delights. Right next to Subway at 1326 State Street just outside the main portion of downtown you'll find Enigma. I'm a big fan, and hope they see a groundswell of support, both from those who already have no qualms about exploring and maintaining the sexual energy in their lives (which can imbue life into everything from gardening to paying bills to, well, sex), but also those who have always wondered, had questions, or fantasies.Life's too short; move those fantasies over into the "to do" list.Forget everything you've ever seen or heard about "an adult store" before. The shop is small, bright, stylish, and comfortable. There is no garish porn; there are no video booths or sneering men looking around. In fact, the place looks like a boutique store selling a plethora of iMac-like items as the trend in toys has gone toward beautiful packaging, bright colors and sensual product design.Seriously. GO. If you've never been into a store selling these items before, GO NOW. Grab a friend. Walk right in like you own the place, or giggle and titter like you're 13 years old. BUT GO. Even if the only result is, "Wow, I never knew..." You can then say you've been there, seen that.But I dare you to walk out without buying something, even if it's just a little ampule of scented/flavored massage oil. And please do -- supporting your local businesses is so important. :-)Be sure to check out the tall glass display case showing what you thought your grandmother didn't know: late 19th and early 20th century vibrating machines sold by doctors and even in the Sears catalog as a cure for the womenly ailment known as "hysteria." (See The Shaky Past of Adult toys, written by yours truly for Salem Monthly back in 2006.)The real reason for my writing is to implore women (and those that love them) in Salem to support the store, and there's no better way to help raise this energy in Salem than to support an upcoming event. They are hosting Tristan Taormino for a two hour Human Sexuality class that should be on everyone's transcript. Even if you know it all and think you could teach this class yourself, I implore you to go. Go to show your support for this type of energy and endeavor in our community. Go to show other women that this is important, and go to show Salem that intelligent, educated information about sexuality is more powerful than all the seedy porn shops the interstates can hold.Yes, I'm going. And if anyone wants to go, but needs a hand to hold while walking in the door, just call me and we'll make it happen. Otherwise, drop by or call to let them know you're coming. Buy a ticket for yourself. Buy a ticket and give it to your adult daughter as a gift. Buy a ticket for a friend. Buy a ticket for your Mom.The event is NOT for women only; men and women are openly invited. But I see this as a real opportunity for women, many of which may not have avenues such as this to openly communicate about sexuality.See below for the posted event details.THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO WOMEN'S SEXUAL PLEASUREWith: Tristan TaorminoDiscover the ABCs of sexual pleasure for women, from the basic to the advanced in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Hear Tristan's unabashed straight talk about sex in the Human Sexuality class that most people never get to take! She'll cover a variety of topics, including: sexual anatomy, masturbation, orgasms, improving your erotic communication skills, finding the elusive g-spot, myths and truths about female ejaculation, sex toy tips and techniques, and the wonders of anal sex. There will be an extensive question-and-answer period where students are encouraged to ask her anything.When: Thursday, March 18, 2010. 7:30 - 9:30PM (All genders welcome.)Where: Enigma 1326 State St Salem ORCost: $25/per personStudent Rate: $20Phone: (503) 569-7087Email: contact@ourenigma.comIf you know of a women's group in the Salem Metro Area, please point them to this post or to Enigma's web site (which has some usability issues, which is why I am posting all the information here). http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TravelOregon/~3/JxnfOpRCfGc/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TravelOregon/~3/JxnfOpRCfGc/ Mon, 8 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0000 Over the weekend, we decided to take a drive South from Pendleton to Battle Mountain and beyond. Heading south on Hwy 395 we drove through rolling hills, slowly climbing in altitude. About 30 miles ... http://causaoregon.blogspot.com/2010/03/historic-procession-for-immigration.html http://causaoregon.blogspot.com/2010/03/historic-procession-for-immigration.html Mon, 8 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0000 Eugene, Ore --Yesterday, 600 people, mostly comprised of Latino families from the Eugene-Springfield area, gathered outside the Office of Congressman Peter DeFazio to call for passage of Comprehensive Immigration Reform and the DREAM Act. Those in attendance were joined by four priests from the parishes of St. Mary Catholic Church, Alice Catholic Church, and St. Mark Catholic Church, and members of CAUSA, Oregon's Immigrant Rights Coalition for a Message of Faith, Hope, and Family Unity.The goal of Sunday's Procession and Prayer Service was to call on Congressman DeFazio to support and join on as a co-sponsor of the Comprehensive Immigration Reform for America's Security and Prosperity (CIR-ASAP) Act of 2009 (HR4321) and the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act of 2009 (HR1751). Catholic leaders from Eugene and Springfield committed on Sunday to increase the pressure on DeFazio until he announces his support of both pieces of legislation.The historic gathering of Catholic Churches in Eugene on Sunday is the first time in the city's history that they have come out into the streets to hold such an event. Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy, who also spoke at the event, said she had never seen anything like the three major Lane County based Catholic Church Congregations coming out in unity to support such an issue like Immigration Reform.Yesterday's faith-based event comes just one day before the Eugene City Council will take a vote on a resolution in support of passage of the DREAM Act. The resolution, which is expected to pass, will urge lawmakers to pass federal legislation allowing undocumented youth to be eligible for a conditional path to citizenship in exchange for completion of a college degree. Last October, members of the Portland City Council passed a similar resolution unanimously.Later this month, Oregonians will join with others from around the nation for a National March on Washington D.C.. The March For America, set to take place on March 21st, is expected to draw tens of thousands of people from the immigrant, labor, business, progressive and faith communities and will demonstrate the energy and strength to America’s elected leaders that we need good jobs and full citizenship for all of America’s families. http://dogsanddragonflies.blogspot.com/2010/03/garden-journal.html http://dogsanddragonflies.blogspot.com/2010/03/garden-journal.html Mon, 8 Mar 2010 06:14:00 +0000 Last year we started a Garden Journal, a place to job notes about new projects, ideas for the future, copies of plant tags, receipts, dreams, etc. I felt a little bad as the energy to keep it updated petered out once the season got going, but in hindsight that's normal; Mother Nature takes over from there. As a new spring approaches, it's great to look back and see what didn't work, what worked differently than anticipated, and all sorts of other things.I'm most thankful for keeping the tags on the raspberries. We want more of the same: fast growing plants that even in their first year threw impressive thumb sized berries with a rich sweet flavor that had us picking at them daily, enjoying what small harvest they yielded right from the vine. http://hinessight.blogs.com/hinessight/2010/03/2010-academy-awards-lacked-passion-and-unpredictability.html http://hinessight.blogs.com/hinessight/2010/03/2010-academy-awards-lacked-passion-and-unpredictability.html Mon, 8 Mar 2010 01:59:00 +0000 Having watched the Academy Awards for many years, this gray-haired observer of countless Oscar presentations feels qualified to say, after watching the 2010 show... Bring back the vibe of the good old days: wilder, crazier, less structured, more unpredictable. Somehow... http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/CreatureBug/~3/66xKvoRcm8c/week-298-feet-peddling-balance-and-away-she-goes.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/CreatureBug/~3/66xKvoRcm8c/week-298-feet-peddling-balance-and-away-she-goes.html Mon, 8 Mar 2010 01:01:00 +0000 "I want to learn to ride my bike today," she said as we were enjoying Saturday's gorgeous weather. "Well, Dad will be home in a little bit." The Biking Riding Project has been more of Jason's thing than mine. But... http://salemphotodiary.blogspot.com/2010/03/fancy-cats.html http://salemphotodiary.blogspot.com/2010/03/fancy-cats.html Mon, 8 Mar 2010 00:39:00 +0000 Sassy Katz Cat Club ShowMarch 6 - 7, 2010Linn County Fairgrounds and Expo Center3700 Knox Butte RdAlbany, OR http://causaoregon.blogspot.com/2010/03/photo-faith-procession-for-immigration.html http://causaoregon.blogspot.com/2010/03/photo-faith-procession-for-immigration.html Sun, 7 Mar 2010 18:47:00 +0000 Eugene, Ore --Today, 600 people joined Reverend Mark Bachmeir of St. Mary Catholic Church, Rev. Roy Antunez of St. Alice Catholic Church, and CAUSA for a Message of Faith, Hope, and Family Unity for Comprehensive Immigration Reform at the Eugene office of Congressman Defazio. http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TravelOregon/~3/g_vqFYER2tU/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TravelOregon/~3/g_vqFYER2tU/ Sun, 7 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0000 Oregon is home to nearly 500 bird species and when spring migration hits, thousands of exotic birds come to rest and feed under the Pacific Flyway. Gather the family to these bird sanctuaries around the ... http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/eatsalem/~3/NwGTDhwH98k/jonathans-grand-reopening-and-31st.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/eatsalem/~3/NwGTDhwH98k/jonathans-grand-reopening-and-31st.html Sun, 7 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0000 Jonathan's will be celebrating their grand-reopening and 31st anniversary on Wednesday, March 17th, St. Patrick's Day.   They've been open since January 21st and have been very steady during their soft opening. They plan on opening at 9 am and making it an all day event.  Green beer will be flowing as well as corned beef and cabbage, Irish Stew, Cabbage rolls as well as regular menu favorites. http://salemphotodiary.blogspot.com/2010/03/all-for-875.html http://salemphotodiary.blogspot.com/2010/03/all-for-875.html Sun, 7 Mar 2010 02:39:00 +0000 YMCA Used Book SaleMarch 5 - 7, 2010YMCA Gymnasium685 Court St NESalem, OR http://hinessight.blogs.com/church_of_the_churchless/2010/03/so-many-arguments-for-gods-existence-all-flawed.html http://hinessight.blogs.com/church_of_the_churchless/2010/03/so-many-arguments-for-gods-existence-all-flawed.html Sun, 7 Mar 2010 00:29:00 +0000 Here's a mini-miracle that happened to me yesterday: I'm in a Barnes & Noble store and see a new hardcover book: "36 Arguments for the Existence of God -- a work of fiction." I'm attracted to buy it. Handing it... http://dogsanddragonflies.blogspot.com/2010/03/what-do-we-call-this.html http://dogsanddragonflies.blogspot.com/2010/03/what-do-we-call-this.html Sat, 6 Mar 2010 17:49:00 +0000 We call this, "Catastrophic Project Failure." See photo 1. Ooops.But the story isn't so sad. Simple creative challenges are a tool I'm using to move my work forward. I chose a color pallete (photo 2), picked a mold, and went about creating a simple result, not getting overly wrapped up in, "Will this be the coolest thing ever produced?" which is what often happens that results in me not doing an actual piece.I played with the four colors, cutting four sets of pieces, and creating different arranagements (photo 3). The results were some which I liked, some less so. Starting with the less liked combo, I fused, then slumped. Or, I should say, I successfully fused, but a number of things went wrong during the slump.My kiln is too small for a project like this. If I want to do it, ramp up needs to be painfully slow, not aggressive (as I tend to run).  The piece cracked in half while ramping up to the full slump temp. So by the time it draped, it was already broken, and the sides slid down to the bottom. Luckily, there's enough kiln wash plashed all over my kiln that nothing stuck. The soak temp was too high, too close to the devit zone which likely caused the grey shift in the blue and the caramel in the marzipan color. The soak time at slump temp was also too long; slump gave way to a much more fluid result. Given it was only 12 minutes, that surprised me. This mold makes a simple arced piece with a depression; perfect for a simple votive holder, an altar piece, an interesting serving dish, or a spot on a nightstand to place jewelry and other precious things so they won't get lost. When it works, anyway. On to the next least attractive color combo. By the time I get to the last one I should have it right; that will be iteration #4.  ☺ http://williambragg.com/blog/2010/03/06/ccdg-travel-team-photo-shoot-completed/ http://williambragg.com/blog/2010/03/06/ccdg-travel-team-photo-shoot-completed/ Sat, 6 Mar 2010 17:03:00 +0000 I’ve sent the women the link to their photos. I had a blast with this photo shoot. Here are a few examples: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/eatsalem/~3/PWRN5lIONvg/no-tip-no-service.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/eatsalem/~3/PWRN5lIONvg/no-tip-no-service.html Sat, 6 Mar 2010 16:02:00 +0000 A discussion came up on another site about a woman who was banned from a Japanese restaurant in Winston-Salem for not tipping. Here's the link on a site called able2know.org http://able2know.org/topic/142513-1 Do you think someone should be banned from eating at a restaurant for not tipping? advertisement St. Patty's Day info! Visit Jonathan's website http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TravelOregon/~3/NJrGZ2A1toc/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TravelOregon/~3/NJrGZ2A1toc/ Sat, 6 Mar 2010 11:00:00 +0000 The clouds have finally parted for school-aged children around the state�"Spring Break is here! There are countless options to do with the family, from the coast to the desert, for toddlers, teens and grandparents�"gamble at ... http://techcraver.com/2010/03/06/an-n900-amazing-feature-group-skype-calling/ http://techcraver.com/2010/03/06/an-n900-amazing-feature-group-skype-calling/ Sat, 6 Mar 2010 10:12:00 +0000 I’ve been using the Nokia N900 now for a month or so and I am finding so many cool uses for this phone.  You see, I do a lot of Skype calling throughout the day because I work with folks up and down the West coast of the U.S. and folks in the UK quite [...]Post from: Techcraver.com | Craving Tech, Craving Life!An N900 Amazing Feature: Group Skype Calling http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/salemoregonrealestatehomes/xkaE/~3/G2tvjQojrCU/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/salemoregonrealestatehomes/xkaE/~3/G2tvjQojrCU/ Sat, 6 Mar 2010 00:17:00 +0000 Paul Slaybaugh, an excellent Scottsdale Arizona real estate agent, wrote a great blog post today.  I wanted to comment on it because I have talked about this issue so many times in the past few years. In the world of real estate there seems to be this polarization occurring, agents like myself and John Kirk, that [...] http://salemphotodiary.blogspot.com/2010/03/beadwork.html http://salemphotodiary.blogspot.com/2010/03/beadwork.html Fri, 5 Mar 2010 23:20:00 +0000 Umbrellas in the CityMarch 2010Engelberg Antiks148 Liberty Street NESalem, OR 97301-3527One of about 30 umbrellas converted into a work of art by a local artist and displayed throughout downtown Salem. http://hinessight.blogs.com/hinessight/2010/03/why-salem-sucks-compared-to-portland.html http://hinessight.blogs.com/hinessight/2010/03/why-salem-sucks-compared-to-portland.html Fri, 5 Mar 2010 22:10:00 +0000 One of the favorite activities of people who live in Salem (Oregon) is asking ourselves, "What's wrong with this town?" My wife and I have a Salem address, though we're outside the city limits, so we're entitled to engage in... http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/mattneznanski/~3/LNh3tcZchlc/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/mattneznanski/~3/LNh3tcZchlc/ Fri, 5 Mar 2010 18:04:00 +0000 What are readers who ask for full RSS feeds really telling you? John Gruber says it's that they want to pay more attention to you and share you with their friends. http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TravelOregon/~3/mb7kee4lQD8/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TravelOregon/~3/mb7kee4lQD8/ Fri, 5 Mar 2010 17:55:00 +0000 Some people say it’s the mud, while other folks say it’s the speed, but most off-roaders agree that they enjoy the challenge of safely driving off road because it takes them to places that they ... http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/ArtBackwash/~3/6d_SMDILH18/giving-bird-to-bird.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/ArtBackwash/~3/6d_SMDILH18/giving-bird-to-bird.html Fri, 5 Mar 2010 16:44:00 +0000 The following story is true.IntroductionDiscussing real world designer horror stories isn't anything new, readers of this blog have read about them before. Ironically enough both the previous post and this current post have a common theme "Birds."I have to say that this isn't the norm for me, it's rather the extreme exception. And to demonstrate that again I'll use a favorite baseball analogy / metaphor which I call a "Designer's Batting Average."We all strive to get a graphic hit when we step up to the plate (project) and each of us would like to get a home run for our clients if possible. But due to time, budget etc. that isn't always possible and a single will suffice in order to drive in a run. (get the job done)Before I jump into this specific situation I should point out the obvious so you know my general approach with any and all assignments I work on. I thoroughly glean information from my clients via a creative brief, once received I follow up with more questions if needed. I do this to guide my creative work, within these defined perimeters I than explore appropriate design directions to isolate a well crafted solution.More about my creative process here. The clients self-designed logo.Fowl DesignI've had all types of clients over the past eight years running my own studio. And I've learned to detect most of the problem ones before hand and avoid them.When "Bravo Verde" was directed my way I was upfront and honest with them about their logo shown above. At first they just asked me if I could clean it up for them. You know, polish a turd for them.I realize there are some who might take the point of view that I shouldn't question them and just do it, get paid, and let it go. But in my opinion that is dishonest, doesn't reflect well on our industry, and facilitates the public perception that anyone can do what we do. So that wasn't an opinion for me.So as diplomatically as I could I responded:Since your target is soccer apparel and a sports marketplace this is what I'd suggest based on my experience with branding.Let me completely re-design your whole brand identity. What you have currently looks amateurish and unprofessional even if it was converted to vector form. It's just not a good design.I can create a mark that'll be just as strong design wise as "Umbro" or "Adidas." We can still play off a Toucan theme but handle it more like a true sports branding so it's iconic, active, and appropriate style wise for the industry you are targeting.Think of this as the foundation for your business success. It's not an expense it's an investment so do it right and you'll have a foundation you can build on with your future marketing efforts.The next day I got a reply and part of that reply said:I poured my heart & soul into that design and thus still reeling from "it's just not a good design." My second issue is if I let you do a complete re-design, then it's not a bravo verde design but rather a Von Glitschka design.I admit this was a Texas size tea leaf I totally misread and proceeded to sell him on the idea of letting me re-design his brand logo. I even agreed to discount my normal rate in order to help him launch this new business and do it right.Design Option 1.Design OptionsWhen I had the client fill out my creative brief he listed attributes he wanted reflected in his brand logo.- Progressive- Durable- Comfortable- Eco-Friendly- Socially Responsible- HipNow you have to take this type of input with a grain of salt. A good example of that is the attribute "Socially Responsible." How exactly do you make a logo do that with all the other input he provided such as the name, and specifically a Toucan worked into it?This is where I tell clients that a logo can't do everything for everyone, much of these principles and attributes shared by talking head marketing people should and will be carried out for the most part in the service and product end of any business. And whether they are done well or poorly will than reflect back on the logo in terms of it's equity over time.Design Option 2.That said I felt I could accomplish the rest via the concepts I was presenting. Since the budget was discounted I didn't bother doing a lot of type exploration in this round. If the client had a problem with it I'd just handle that in round two exploration.Design Option 3 Brand System.When I present brand logo concepts I tend to present each direction as a system. I show a variety of formats and devices. All of which can work together in a multitude of venues and still retain the brand continuity.I did this for all three options but am only showing it on the third one in this post. Which ever direction my client picks they get all the various iterations and a style guide to manage it all as well.I spent a lot of time condensing shapes and iconifying the Toucan in order to create a compelling mark for this client. I was very happy with the end results.I sent off my concepts and notes regarding each directions and waited for a reply.Another self-designed client logo.Client may be King, but they're not the Art DirectorAbout a week went by without any contact from the client, so I emailed a follow up asking for an update and to make sure they received the email. The next day I got a reply and here is part of what it said:Nothing in this logo says eco-friendly to me, or hip, or progressive, or durable, or socially responsible.I was hoping for something fresh, something new. The font is very serious & while I like it overall, I don't like it as the representative font for Bravo Verde.I don't expect my clients to like everything I do, that's simply isn't realistic but I couldn't even get a radar fix on where this guy was coming from? I asked him to define exactly why he didn't feel this design wasn't eco-friendly, or progressive, or socially responsible, or new?Well he couldn't. I figured he might not like the typeface, that's fine it was the one thing in his response I thought was at least valid on some level.Turning the TablesTime for another baseball analogy / metaphor? I decided to play hardball with him, and asked if his original logo met that same criteria? Because he initially just wanted me to clean it up. This of course was a rhetorical question from my point of view.What I got in response is about ten self-designed new logo graphics he decided to do in order to show me how it should have been done. Apparently these meet his understanding visually of the criteria provided in my creative brief shown above.I'm only showing you two of those graphics in order to spare your rod's and cones from imploding.Yet another self-designed client logo.Giving the Bird to the BirdWe were back at square one again. He thought I should essentially just clean up what he did. I tried to reason with him but he values his own opinion more than mine and I knew it was time to pull a Trump and give the client the cobra.Live and learn.All Artwork and Concepts are Copyright © Glitschka Studios 2009 http://1534dover.blogspot.com/2010/03/another-time-another-place.html http://1534dover.blogspot.com/2010/03/another-time-another-place.html Fri, 5 Mar 2010 13:45:00 +0000 As I scan in photos, I wonder if anyone will ever look at them again... Quite a collection here, at a post wedding gathering for Jack and Nora Schackel at the Bethges in Bremerton. http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/eatsalem/~3/6o_oc6AMU9k/annettes-westgate-cafe.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/eatsalem/~3/6o_oc6AMU9k/annettes-westgate-cafe.html Fri, 5 Mar 2010 09:19:00 +0000 Live music in an attractive, local venue for Wednesday date night?  Can't get much better than that!  I have to admit, it's the main reason Annette's Westgate Cafe was our choice this week.  Well that and hearing we should  try one of their burgers. We arrived about a quarter past 7 PM.  The guitar music greeting us at the door along with our hostess.  Our request to sit at a table along the http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/salemoregonrealestatehomes/xkaE/~3/RbJg4ltU0ms/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/salemoregonrealestatehomes/xkaE/~3/RbJg4ltU0ms/ Fri, 5 Mar 2010 01:02:00 +0000 “I’d like a house on a 1/2 an acre,” says the buyer on the phone. I have had this conversation with several people that want to relocate out to this area.   I often find myself explaining that in Oregon, all cities are required to have an urban growth boundary per state law. [...] http://salemphotodiary.blogspot.com/2010/03/ceremonial-dance.html http://salemphotodiary.blogspot.com/2010/03/ceremonial-dance.html Fri, 5 Mar 2010 00:09:00 +0000 Ameyaltonal AztecaUmbrellas in the CityRainfest 20101st WednesdayMarch 3, 2010Downtown Salem, OR http://with-heart-and-hands.blogspot.com/2010/03/miracles-happen.html http://with-heart-and-hands.blogspot.com/2010/03/miracles-happen.html Thu, 4 Mar 2010 21:53:00 +0000 After 12 days in a coma and 9 on a ventilator, my S-I-L, Becky, has now regained consciousness and is stable and doing amazingly well.We are filled with gratitude and blessings after a prognosis of less than a 5% chance of her even living.I actually spoke to her own the phone today, and while obviously suffering from the injuries she has sustained both internally and as a result of life-saving measures, she was alert and even had a sense of humor,And while we don't yet know the long term healing prognosis, nor what internal damages she may have sustained it is truly a lesson to never doubt the possibility of miracles.shown above: my latest vigil candle, after its melting over the last 3 days time.I can see the profile of a seated, and winged angel, and there is no doubt in my heart that one watched over Becky these past weeks.With Heart and Hands http://rpc.technorati.com/rpc/ping http://hinessight.blogs.com/church_of_the_churchless/2010/03/if-soul-is-real-well-never-know.html http://hinessight.blogs.com/church_of_the_churchless/2010/03/if-soul-is-real-well-never-know.html Thu, 4 Mar 2010 18:11:00 +0000 Lots of people believe in what philosophers call "mind-body dualism." Or if they're mystically or religiously inclined, they'll say that the soul is the non-physical side of who we are. Regardless, this is a dualistic view of life. It's nothing... http://hinessight.blogs.com/church_of_the_churchless/2010/03/the-sheer-strangeness-of-everything.html http://hinessight.blogs.com/church_of_the_churchless/2010/03/the-sheer-strangeness-of-everything.html Thu, 4 Mar 2010 17:13:00 +0000 Sanity is consensual. If there's someone else who sees the world in the same way I do, that gives me at least a little bit of confidence that I'm not way out in weirdo-world -- though I'm not saying that...