I was browsing on WineBid.com tonight looking at some great california cabs when it occurred to me that I have no one to enjoy wine with. By that, I don't mean someone who will just drink wine, but someone who will really appreciate it. Of course, this is in the post-Henry era. We both were really into wine - and now I'm kindof screwed. And with Julie not drinking with the pregnancy, that means I can't even justify opening a great bottle, cause I'd have to drink it all myself - and that's no fun. Fortunately, I really like scotch too - and can drink a little of it at a time - and there're a few of my friends who are big scotch people. But no wine people!
Henry bought a bunch of wines a couple days before he died, and while we'll drink them, and enjoy them, it won't be the same. I could probably call family friend Don Yungkurth - a BIG wine fan - and I may just have to do that! I hope he won't mind drinking really good burgundies and zins. So, maybe I need to find a couple new friends who can just be my "wine friends"??
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Gargoyles
Anyone who knew Henry knew that he was into some weird shit. For example, for some reason he had this desire to place a large gargoyle on the roof of the garage. Specifically, from Design Toscano, he was particularly interested in purchasing Apex - the Winged Dragon". In fact, so enamored with Apex, he suggested he buy one for Julie and me! Needless to say, when I showed Julie the Apex - the Winged Dragon her first reaction was, "What the hell?!" Followed by something like, "Can't he just give us the money? Or maybe buy something we could actually use?" Well, sorry, but no. That wasn't his way! How many winter jackets did he buy me that I didn't need? How many winter jackets did he buy that HE didn't need?!
Well, I kindof dig the Apex gargoyle. It's kindof cool, and I wouldn't mind having one perched on the roof of my garage! (Though, Julie would probably kill me - and shoot the dragon.) And what got me to thinking about this had absolutely nothing to do with anything. I'm considering downtown office space. I like Highfalls, and I like the Highfalls building, however we never heard from them when we basically said we'd do it - so that kindof turned me off. I also REALLY like the idea of having a balcony. This is due in large part to my love of "Boston Legal". If I'm going to put in long hours, and run a business, I want a balcony I can sit on and occasionally smoke a cigar and drink a nice glass of scotch. Well, here's the problem with living in Rochester - no downtown buildings have balconies. Or, at least, I can't seem to find one. The closest thing is the Powers Builidng tower. There's balconies on a couple of the levels, and I can imagine myself sitting out there! (Oh, the other one is on top of Kodak tower, but the smoke from a burning cigar probably would interfere with the falcons flying around).
Again, this has nothing to do with gargoyles! Well, here's how we come to them. I was looking for pictures of the Powers building tower and came upon pictures of the Elwood Building. This building was torn down in 1967 in the name of progress. What drew my interest were the large gargoyles that sat atop this builidng. According to the Monroe County Library's history site, "there were originally 16 gargoyles. However, one was removed in 1962 for fear that is was going to break free and fall to the street below."
When they tore down the building, the site states that "the gargoyles, however, were taken down and put into storage." So, what happened to these lovely fellows? I'm sure there are some local historians out there that know, and I know a few of them, so next time I run into them, I'll ask. It's interesting that they saved them at all, considering how bad "urban renewal" was for downtown. So much was lost, and tossing the gargoyles wouldn't have been any less crazy than telling bird collectors (those who collect stuffed birds) that they'd better go south and shoot Ivory Billed Woodpeckers while they still can - before they go on the endanged list! (Yes, this actually did happen, albeit prior to 1967. What better way to save a species than to SHOOT it.)
So, my new mission is to find these gargoyles and put one on my roof. Maybe not the most meaningful mission in the world, but I'm SURE Julie would just LOVE one of these on our roof.
Well, I kindof dig the Apex gargoyle. It's kindof cool, and I wouldn't mind having one perched on the roof of my garage! (Though, Julie would probably kill me - and shoot the dragon.) And what got me to thinking about this had absolutely nothing to do with anything. I'm considering downtown office space. I like Highfalls, and I like the Highfalls building, however we never heard from them when we basically said we'd do it - so that kindof turned me off. I also REALLY like the idea of having a balcony. This is due in large part to my love of "Boston Legal". If I'm going to put in long hours, and run a business, I want a balcony I can sit on and occasionally smoke a cigar and drink a nice glass of scotch. Well, here's the problem with living in Rochester - no downtown buildings have balconies. Or, at least, I can't seem to find one. The closest thing is the Powers Builidng tower. There's balconies on a couple of the levels, and I can imagine myself sitting out there! (Oh, the other one is on top of Kodak tower, but the smoke from a burning cigar probably would interfere with the falcons flying around).
Again, this has nothing to do with gargoyles! Well, here's how we come to them. I was looking for pictures of the Powers building tower and came upon pictures of the Elwood Building. This building was torn down in 1967 in the name of progress. What drew my interest were the large gargoyles that sat atop this builidng. According to the Monroe County Library's history site, "there were originally 16 gargoyles. However, one was removed in 1962 for fear that is was going to break free and fall to the street below."
When they tore down the building, the site states that "the gargoyles, however, were taken down and put into storage." So, what happened to these lovely fellows? I'm sure there are some local historians out there that know, and I know a few of them, so next time I run into them, I'll ask. It's interesting that they saved them at all, considering how bad "urban renewal" was for downtown. So much was lost, and tossing the gargoyles wouldn't have been any less crazy than telling bird collectors (those who collect stuffed birds) that they'd better go south and shoot Ivory Billed Woodpeckers while they still can - before they go on the endanged list! (Yes, this actually did happen, albeit prior to 1967. What better way to save a species than to SHOOT it.)
So, my new mission is to find these gargoyles and put one on my roof. Maybe not the most meaningful mission in the world, but I'm SURE Julie would just LOVE one of these on our roof.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Kansas City Royals Beat the Yankees?!
I am an on-again, off-again KC Royals fan. Over the past several years they've gone from bad to worse to good to bad, to more bad, to really bad and now really REALLY bad. We're talking 11 wins and 35 losses bad. Of course, before last night, they were 10 and 35 - having just beaten the NEW YORK YANKEES last night. WTF? We lose to everyone else under the sun - except the Indians - and now they have the audacity to beat the Yankees? And this after they blew a 6 run lead against Detroit a couple nights ago to lose in the 9th inning - something we expect to see as KC fans.What's next, beat the Mets in interleague play? What does Buddy Bell think he's doing? Now those of us totally resigned to a crappy crappy year have been given hope, of sorts.
OK - they won ONE game, not exactly a huge accomplishment. But then again, if the can beat the Yankees, why can't they beat some other quality teams? I guess I shouldn't complain, KC starter Scott Elarton got is first win (now a whopping 1-5 with a 4.76 ERA) so that's positive. And it was nice to see that it was Jason Giambi blowing it for the Yankees. (I wonder if his post-game interview was laced with inuendo about steroiods?)
Now we've got a shot at an actual WIN STREAK this year. The best they've done is a three-game streak against the Indians, which again, gave fans a slight bit of hope, but this recent 14 game losing streak really was amazingly bad. I'll be watching the YES network later today, cause, well, I'm just a glutton for punishment.
UPDATE: KC lost 15 to 4 to the Yankees today. Guess there's no streak. Oh well!
OK - they won ONE game, not exactly a huge accomplishment. But then again, if the can beat the Yankees, why can't they beat some other quality teams? I guess I shouldn't complain, KC starter Scott Elarton got is first win (now a whopping 1-5 with a 4.76 ERA) so that's positive. And it was nice to see that it was Jason Giambi blowing it for the Yankees. (I wonder if his post-game interview was laced with inuendo about steroiods?)
Now we've got a shot at an actual WIN STREAK this year. The best they've done is a three-game streak against the Indians, which again, gave fans a slight bit of hope, but this recent 14 game losing streak really was amazingly bad. I'll be watching the YES network later today, cause, well, I'm just a glutton for punishment.
UPDATE: KC lost 15 to 4 to the Yankees today. Guess there's no streak. Oh well!
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Dad & Baby
Well, as nearly everyone who knows me or my family knows, my dad passed away on May 9th. I don't know if I'm ready yet to post some sort of big memorial piece here, but I might at some point. It's been great how supportive everyone's been, however. For those who are interested, yes, I'm keeping Javelin going. We recently changed the name to The Javelin Group, Inc., and I'm adding Claire Kenney part time on June 5th, which will be a great help to me. And in the middle of June we might be adding one other person. That'll bring Javelin up to three. Ideally, we'll have enough work coming in here that we can even bring some others on.
On a VERY happy note, Julie and I are having a BABY!!! Yes, we did it! Our tentative due date is December 13th, but that's probably going to change. When I get a chance, I'll want to scan the ultrasound pics and post em' up here. It was AMAZING to see the baby for real. That just totally blew me away. We told both families and now I'm at liberty to spread the news around, so there it is!
Otherwise, just keeping busy and will post a lot more stuff up here in the not-too-distant future. Check back!
On a VERY happy note, Julie and I are having a BABY!!! Yes, we did it! Our tentative due date is December 13th, but that's probably going to change. When I get a chance, I'll want to scan the ultrasound pics and post em' up here. It was AMAZING to see the baby for real. That just totally blew me away. We told both families and now I'm at liberty to spread the news around, so there it is!
Otherwise, just keeping busy and will post a lot more stuff up here in the not-too-distant future. Check back!
Sunday, April 23, 2006
What a great line!
I have to post this quote from today's (4/23/06) issue of the New York Times. It's from a story entitled, "To Hire Sharp Employees, Recruit in Sharp Ways." Essentially, it's a story about how the best employees already have jobs - jobs they probably also like. So, there's a great line in here which made me laugh, cause it's so opposed to the way Rochester works. John J. Sullivan, a management professor at San Francisco State University (ok, not exactly Harvard or Standford, but let's ignore that credential for a moment, shall we?) - a critic of traditional hiring practices states, "It's amazing that so many companies still use job fairs to recuit talent. Who goes to job fairs? People without jobs! All you get are worthless resumes and lots of germs. Recruiting has to be a clever, fast-moving business discipline, not a passive, paper-pushing bureaucracy."
The job-fair is the answer to all our problems in Rochester - or so the "thought leaders" believe. Job fairs and business planning contests are the most innovative ways to solve our problems, so they'll say. That, and spending lots and lots of money with these self-proclaimed thought leaders on their pet projects which do nothing more than pay for their travel expenses and make them feel like a saviour-in-out-midsts. Of course, ask them five-years from now for a report on all their successes, and you'll get nothing but spin, and the real outcomes will be slight-to-immeasurable.
Of course, in the same story, the director of talen acquisition for Quicken Loans (one of the fastest growing companies in the US) states, "We're after certain kinds of people, not people from a certain business.... We can teach people about finance. We can't teach passion, urgency and a willingness to go the extra mile." Don't tell that to another Rochester-institution that has based it's entire marketing strategy on the "We teach... passion" campaign!
The job-fair is the answer to all our problems in Rochester - or so the "thought leaders" believe. Job fairs and business planning contests are the most innovative ways to solve our problems, so they'll say. That, and spending lots and lots of money with these self-proclaimed thought leaders on their pet projects which do nothing more than pay for their travel expenses and make them feel like a saviour-in-out-midsts. Of course, ask them five-years from now for a report on all their successes, and you'll get nothing but spin, and the real outcomes will be slight-to-immeasurable.
Of course, in the same story, the director of talen acquisition for Quicken Loans (one of the fastest growing companies in the US) states, "We're after certain kinds of people, not people from a certain business.... We can teach people about finance. We can't teach passion, urgency and a willingness to go the extra mile." Don't tell that to another Rochester-institution that has based it's entire marketing strategy on the "We teach... passion" campaign!
Friday, March 24, 2006
DC Pics
OK! FINALLY I can post some pics... here's on the roof of our hotel:
Here's the little church across the street from the hotel (the President was there on Sunday morning for services... I would have actually have gone to church if I knew!)
And here's a shot from the FDR memorial...
More shots of the monuments at night coming...
Here's the little church across the street from the hotel (the President was there on Sunday morning for services... I would have actually have gone to church if I knew!)
And here's a shot from the FDR memorial...
More shots of the monuments at night coming...
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Blogger
You know, you'd think it wouldn't be rocket science from Blogger to just work. I mean - all I want to do is post text and the occasional picture. Well, I'm sitting here attempting to upload some images from our recent trip to Washington, DC. I wrote a whole section and then attempted to upload the images. It didn't work. Each time, the screen went white after doing the spinning upload thingy. So, I thought, "I'll try using Firefox rather than Safari... maybe that'll make a difference." Nope. Still can't post images. I think I'm going to just say fuck it and try to move to a different blogging program. If Google can't get something as simple as image upload to work on a regular basis, then we should all be worried (but ESPECIALLY all those people out there owning Google shares at $300+ each.)
Saturday, March 04, 2006
The Simpsons (for real!)
As many of you know... I am a huge Simpson's fan. In fact, I probably know more about The Simpson's that I should... having seen every episode - multiple times - and having an uncanny ability to speak along with the lines as various episodes play. I am also a pseudo news junkie... albeit not as big as these guys. I actually seed all sorts of articles on Newsvine - thanks to Brendan who got me into the beta. It's live and open to the public now.
Well, anyway, checking Newsvine today, got me this link. It's The Simpson's opening with real people! VERY well done!
Well, anyway, checking Newsvine today, got me this link. It's The Simpson's opening with real people! VERY well done!
Monday, February 27, 2006
Sick AGAIN
Well, I don't know what the heck is going on, but I am sick again. This time, it's gotta be the flu. Fever, aching, sneezing, congestion... all that good stuff. In fact, I felt so bad this morning, I had to stay home from work today. I HATE doing that - especially when it's YOUR business... and if you're not there, no one else will pick up the slack. To add to all that, mom and dad are in Tucson, and I wasn't able to get to their place tonight to feed the kitties. Fortunately, Jason was able to stop over there and feed them. I just hope that tomorrow morning I feel great - so I can get to work.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Aren't Communications Great?
So, it's just before 11am (eastern time) in Rochester, NY and I get a call from Brendan in Seattle. He's heading up to take the ferry from Anacortes to Orcas Island - presumably to do some camping. He's calling me to get the ferry schedule from the Washington State Department of Transportation website. Of course, I have no problem finding what we're looking for, and I let him know that the weekday schedule is different from the weekend schedule, and that they can stop speeding to catch the 8:30 ferry... cause the next one they want isn't until 10:00am.
In reflecting on these events, it's really amazing how far communications have come. That a person in Seattle can phone a person in Rochester - with no long distance charges - and that the person in Rochester can tell him the ferry schedule in Washington State. Now, with the right technology, Brendan could have found this info himself - with a blackberry, or laptop hooked up to a cell phone, or whatever - but it's still interesting. Fifty years ago - hell, TWENTY years ago - none of this would have been possible. He could still have called me, but rudimentary cell phone plans would have probably charged him $20 or more just to make the phone call. Then, I'd probably need to go looking through stacks of papers to find the schedule - assuming I have one - and then hope that it's not out of date!
Just an interesting observation. Up next? Flour City Tavern Tour 2006!!! Just gotta sit down with George and finalize our route. This year's going to start on Monroe Avenue, it appears, probably at Monty's Krown or Jerremiah's Tavern. Jerremiah's would be good for beer and food to start... and then go to the Krown. From there, it's a LONG walk to anywhere... except Enright's... and unless they miraculously add 5 or 8 new taps with excellent beers on them, that'll be a pass. The old Tom Thumb restaurant is good if you're looking to get drinking at 8am, but beyond that it's not really up to tavern-tour expectations.
Once the route is down, then come the t-shirts. In fact, this weekend I'll probably try and pull together the graphics so it's ready to go. Then it'll only be like $10-12 per shirt.
Cheers'
In reflecting on these events, it's really amazing how far communications have come. That a person in Seattle can phone a person in Rochester - with no long distance charges - and that the person in Rochester can tell him the ferry schedule in Washington State. Now, with the right technology, Brendan could have found this info himself - with a blackberry, or laptop hooked up to a cell phone, or whatever - but it's still interesting. Fifty years ago - hell, TWENTY years ago - none of this would have been possible. He could still have called me, but rudimentary cell phone plans would have probably charged him $20 or more just to make the phone call. Then, I'd probably need to go looking through stacks of papers to find the schedule - assuming I have one - and then hope that it's not out of date!
Just an interesting observation. Up next? Flour City Tavern Tour 2006!!! Just gotta sit down with George and finalize our route. This year's going to start on Monroe Avenue, it appears, probably at Monty's Krown or Jerremiah's Tavern. Jerremiah's would be good for beer and food to start... and then go to the Krown. From there, it's a LONG walk to anywhere... except Enright's... and unless they miraculously add 5 or 8 new taps with excellent beers on them, that'll be a pass. The old Tom Thumb restaurant is good if you're looking to get drinking at 8am, but beyond that it's not really up to tavern-tour expectations.
Once the route is down, then come the t-shirts. In fact, this weekend I'll probably try and pull together the graphics so it's ready to go. Then it'll only be like $10-12 per shirt.
Cheers'
Friday, February 10, 2006
The sickness!
Oh me' miserum!
Actually, today I'm feeling much better. The past three days have been a pain in the ass, to say the least. Last night, however, was by far the worst. While I did enjoy a good drug induced sleep - I also spent most of the evening huddled on the sofa in my livingroom shivering with fever. Today is better, but I'm also taking a hell of a lot of cold medicine which is keeping me mostly "normal." Still have a nasty cough, congestion, watery eyes, and a general feeling of malaise, but it's not terrible. The objective is to get healthy enough to do two things tomorrow that I've been looking forward to - smoking a cigar at Havana Moes, and going to the Knighthawks game. Why am I looking forward to this? Well, Julie also happens to be in Arizona this weekend - lucky to be away from my sickness! So, I was planning on doing things that she wouldn't normally like me to do (other than the lacrosse, which is good... it's those cigars that aren't viewed too highly.)
I was also planning on eating smoked chubs and cooking a big pot o' tripe - two other things Julie can't stand - but I don't think I could stomach it either right now. Hopefully one more night of sitting on my ass, watching TV, and relaxing will get me back to normal.
Actually, today I'm feeling much better. The past three days have been a pain in the ass, to say the least. Last night, however, was by far the worst. While I did enjoy a good drug induced sleep - I also spent most of the evening huddled on the sofa in my livingroom shivering with fever. Today is better, but I'm also taking a hell of a lot of cold medicine which is keeping me mostly "normal." Still have a nasty cough, congestion, watery eyes, and a general feeling of malaise, but it's not terrible. The objective is to get healthy enough to do two things tomorrow that I've been looking forward to - smoking a cigar at Havana Moes, and going to the Knighthawks game. Why am I looking forward to this? Well, Julie also happens to be in Arizona this weekend - lucky to be away from my sickness! So, I was planning on doing things that she wouldn't normally like me to do (other than the lacrosse, which is good... it's those cigars that aren't viewed too highly.)
I was also planning on eating smoked chubs and cooking a big pot o' tripe - two other things Julie can't stand - but I don't think I could stomach it either right now. Hopefully one more night of sitting on my ass, watching TV, and relaxing will get me back to normal.
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Wedding pictures posted!
Well, it's only been three months, but the wedding pictures are FINALLY posted. Go to www.pictage.com, register online, and look up "Gottfried" in the find an event section. There'll you find a few hundred photos from the wedding! Lots of good ones... some not so good! Check em' out for yourself!
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Dave's New Car Redux
Well, looks like I'm not only days away from the new car coming! Talked to the dealership today and they're sending it over now. I still gotta make up my mind on the various options I want - but I think I know what I want. Basically, I want to add fog lights and a subwoofer sound system. I'd LOVE to have a moonroof too, but it's not an option on this model. Which is strange, considering it's a four-door... and they offer it on other models. But, alas, at this time, there's no moonroof option. Perhaps at some point I can have a hole cut to make one... but not now! It also comes with a navigation system which is really cool. No more getting lost!
The best part is - no more Audi issues. The latest round was the fuel pump died. How is this possible? Why did it die AFTER I went in for my 60,000 mile service? Of course, I'm turning in my car with 5000 extra miles on it - and they'll probably screw me with damage charges. It would just round out the experience of dealing with Audi, which has been terrible. All Audi needed to do to keep me happy was pick up a lease payment once. But they didn't. So I'll never buy another Audi again. They actually called me the other day to discuss my Audi experience... but it was a voicemail message. So, it's unlikely that I'll call them back. What could they possibly do to make me happy now? And why would THEY care? I've already purchased the next car... and it's not an Audi. Oh well.
This will also make Julie very happy on several accounts. First, the car is not leased but purchased. So I actually get to own something! Second, it's automatic, so she can drive it! Third, it's not an Audi, so hopefully it won't have all the technological problems. Every time I drive her around, that damn front turn signal goes dead and the warning light goes off! She then tells me what a POS the car is! (I have to agree - this car shouldn't have this many problems for the price!!!!)
So, hopefully before the week's end, I'll have tons of pictures of the new car. Yay!
The best part is - no more Audi issues. The latest round was the fuel pump died. How is this possible? Why did it die AFTER I went in for my 60,000 mile service? Of course, I'm turning in my car with 5000 extra miles on it - and they'll probably screw me with damage charges. It would just round out the experience of dealing with Audi, which has been terrible. All Audi needed to do to keep me happy was pick up a lease payment once. But they didn't. So I'll never buy another Audi again. They actually called me the other day to discuss my Audi experience... but it was a voicemail message. So, it's unlikely that I'll call them back. What could they possibly do to make me happy now? And why would THEY care? I've already purchased the next car... and it's not an Audi. Oh well.
This will also make Julie very happy on several accounts. First, the car is not leased but purchased. So I actually get to own something! Second, it's automatic, so she can drive it! Third, it's not an Audi, so hopefully it won't have all the technological problems. Every time I drive her around, that damn front turn signal goes dead and the warning light goes off! She then tells me what a POS the car is! (I have to agree - this car shouldn't have this many problems for the price!!!!)
So, hopefully before the week's end, I'll have tons of pictures of the new car. Yay!
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Buffalo - The Real Deal
One of my hobbies is reading The Buffalo News. While it seems every Western New Yorker loves to blast his or her town's local newspaper, really, The Buffalo News ain't half bad. After sitting here drinking my Sunday morning coffee, and reading the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle , and feeling rather unfulfilled about it, you come to realize the Buffalo News in comparison is a pretty good paper - even if I'm too lazy to go to Wegmans and buy an actual copy of it, and instead opt for the online addition.
Anyway, there's a great commentary in today's edition by Donn Esmonde: A few words say it all about Buffalo. Apparently, he held his own little slogan contest to see what readers could come up with for Buffalo. The winner? Buffalo - The Real Deal. Quote, "It's tough-minded, to the point, matter-of-fact. It says this is an authentic place . . . We are what we are, and proud of it. It's smash-mouth football. Chicken wings at the corner tavern. Beers and kielbasa. It's not glitz and glamour, but the authentic America that has been lost in so many places." I have to admit, I really like it too. It also capitalizes on the nation's latest infatuation with poker! Naysayers undoubtedly will complain that the slogan should be negative - pointing to Buffalo's need for a state board to manage it's finances - but those assholes don't get it. Comming up with a city slogan should identify something POSITIVE. EVERY community has bad stuff.... but how can you set your city apart, even with something as insignificant as a slogan?
I think "Buffalo - The Real Deal" is about a BILLION TIMES BETTER than "Rochester - Made for Living". Notice the difference between these two three-word slogans? One kindof hits you - makes you wonder about what might be there, and possibly makes you want to visit. The other conjures up images of schools, suburbs, and soccer moms. Um, that's not a place I need or want to visit. Rochester has so much more going for it, and to have spent thousands comming up with "Made for Living" is an embarrassment. Donn's effort shows how community involvement can usually result in better outcomes than the efforts of our city "thought leaders." Oh yeah, and what did this contest cost Donn? A $100 restaurant gift certificate.
Anyway, there's a great commentary in today's edition by Donn Esmonde: A few words say it all about Buffalo. Apparently, he held his own little slogan contest to see what readers could come up with for Buffalo. The winner? Buffalo - The Real Deal. Quote, "It's tough-minded, to the point, matter-of-fact. It says this is an authentic place . . . We are what we are, and proud of it. It's smash-mouth football. Chicken wings at the corner tavern. Beers and kielbasa. It's not glitz and glamour, but the authentic America that has been lost in so many places." I have to admit, I really like it too. It also capitalizes on the nation's latest infatuation with poker! Naysayers undoubtedly will complain that the slogan should be negative - pointing to Buffalo's need for a state board to manage it's finances - but those assholes don't get it. Comming up with a city slogan should identify something POSITIVE. EVERY community has bad stuff.... but how can you set your city apart, even with something as insignificant as a slogan?
I think "Buffalo - The Real Deal" is about a BILLION TIMES BETTER than "Rochester - Made for Living". Notice the difference between these two three-word slogans? One kindof hits you - makes you wonder about what might be there, and possibly makes you want to visit. The other conjures up images of schools, suburbs, and soccer moms. Um, that's not a place I need or want to visit. Rochester has so much more going for it, and to have spent thousands comming up with "Made for Living" is an embarrassment. Donn's effort shows how community involvement can usually result in better outcomes than the efforts of our city "thought leaders." Oh yeah, and what did this contest cost Donn? A $100 restaurant gift certificate.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Monroe County State of the County
I'm sitting here listening to Maggie Brooks give her "State of the County" address... so far, sounds pretty good. I like how she started off with economic development. Under her term so far, I would descrive her committment to economic development as, "lackluster," at best. Frankly, you cannot have a successful economic development effort without a (ugh - wait - need to pause - she just honored Gabe and Gene Dalmath for helping the zoo... ugh...)
Anyway, as I was saying, you can't have a economic development effort without a full time director of economic development. And, while she isn't hiring that person, at least she's discussing economic development as a high priority. I think that Terry Slaybaugh is great - but he cannot be all things in this administration, and Maggie needs to bring in a dedicated economic development director. Her idea of the entrepreneurial institute is a good one - and, I like the folks who are going to run it. (Won't mention who that is yet, until it's officially annonunced).
Now she's talking about MCH. "What to do about MCH," is the topic! LOL - they must seriously consider the outright sale of the hospital to an outside company. That's what she says. And at the very least, outsource the administration and staffing. Rob - what do you think? She says it's "an important community asset".... you agree? The time for debate is over - and stresses out the families and healthcare staff. She's appointing a permanent finanical review board to have a fiscally sustainable hospital. Her pledge: "MCH will not be closed, sold, or privatized.... end of discussion, end of debate." Cool beans. (Again, Rob, your thoughts?! LOL)
Long term financial condition of the County.... ongoing fiscal challenges..... last two years: we've been able to keep MC deficit free. The 2006 budget will do so as well. She's proud of all this (as she should be... it's very tough to do). OK... side note.. Jean is sitting in the audience eating something... STOP CHEWING! HAHAHAHAHAHHA.
Well, apparently 2007, 2008 and beyond are a budget gap of $102 million. Yay! We must address this, this year - while we still can.
OK... now she's mentioning that we need to keep the services we have... don't start throwing old people into the streets... wages for County workers is flat... health care coverage is still good, and saved taxpayers money on a continuing basis.... look at vacancies to see if they're necessary jobs.... new contracts are in place with the majority of the unions with about 2% increases in wages - way beneith most other counties.... lots of other savings... but one area that needs scrutiny - high caseloads and welfare - responsible for a lot of the deficit. County is responsible for all this, yes, and should do a better job at administering the welfare programs. Onondaga County is doing it better than we are - and saving money.
UGH... ok... gotta stop typing this stuff. Basically, good speach, and given well. Didn't hear any boos from the Democrats in the audience, and John Richardson looks great sitting there in the audience - undoubtedly wishing he were doing what I am - watching this on TV and drinking wine!
Anyway, as I was saying, you can't have a economic development effort without a full time director of economic development. And, while she isn't hiring that person, at least she's discussing economic development as a high priority. I think that Terry Slaybaugh is great - but he cannot be all things in this administration, and Maggie needs to bring in a dedicated economic development director. Her idea of the entrepreneurial institute is a good one - and, I like the folks who are going to run it. (Won't mention who that is yet, until it's officially annonunced).
Now she's talking about MCH. "What to do about MCH," is the topic! LOL - they must seriously consider the outright sale of the hospital to an outside company. That's what she says. And at the very least, outsource the administration and staffing. Rob - what do you think? She says it's "an important community asset".... you agree? The time for debate is over - and stresses out the families and healthcare staff. She's appointing a permanent finanical review board to have a fiscally sustainable hospital. Her pledge: "MCH will not be closed, sold, or privatized.... end of discussion, end of debate." Cool beans. (Again, Rob, your thoughts?! LOL)
Long term financial condition of the County.... ongoing fiscal challenges..... last two years: we've been able to keep MC deficit free. The 2006 budget will do so as well. She's proud of all this (as she should be... it's very tough to do). OK... side note.. Jean is sitting in the audience eating something... STOP CHEWING! HAHAHAHAHAHHA.
Well, apparently 2007, 2008 and beyond are a budget gap of $102 million. Yay! We must address this, this year - while we still can.
OK... now she's mentioning that we need to keep the services we have... don't start throwing old people into the streets... wages for County workers is flat... health care coverage is still good, and saved taxpayers money on a continuing basis.... look at vacancies to see if they're necessary jobs.... new contracts are in place with the majority of the unions with about 2% increases in wages - way beneith most other counties.... lots of other savings... but one area that needs scrutiny - high caseloads and welfare - responsible for a lot of the deficit. County is responsible for all this, yes, and should do a better job at administering the welfare programs. Onondaga County is doing it better than we are - and saving money.
UGH... ok... gotta stop typing this stuff. Basically, good speach, and given well. Didn't hear any boos from the Democrats in the audience, and John Richardson looks great sitting there in the audience - undoubtedly wishing he were doing what I am - watching this on TV and drinking wine!
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
The Today Show
UPDATE: We were FINALLY on the show! Yay! We had about 15 seconds of "fame"!
For those who may not have caught it, Julie and I (though, Julie got quotes and a picture printed) were in the D&C last Monday. You can find that story HERE.
Well, apparently, The Today Show saw the story on the AP, and thought it would be fun to do a piece on this story. So, this past Friday afternoon our living room was turned into a mini recording studio! There were lights, cameras, and just a little bit of action. They spent about two and a half hours - interviewing us, shooting us making cookies, looking through photos, and walking through the woods outside our home.
According the the producer who did the interview with us, the spot will run this Thursday at 8:10am on Today. So, for those of you with TiVo... be sure to set it! I'd LOVE to post a link to the video, assuming someone saves it for me. I also should get some good screen captures from Scott Fybush who'll be sure to save a copy. Now we'll have to wait until Tuesday to find out if they might fly us down to actually be on the show LIVE... but that would just be icing on the cake. Right now we're happy to be on a national television show. I'll post more when I've got stuff to show!
For those who may not have caught it, Julie and I (though, Julie got quotes and a picture printed) were in the D&C last Monday. You can find that story HERE.
Well, apparently, The Today Show saw the story on the AP, and thought it would be fun to do a piece on this story. So, this past Friday afternoon our living room was turned into a mini recording studio! There were lights, cameras, and just a little bit of action. They spent about two and a half hours - interviewing us, shooting us making cookies, looking through photos, and walking through the woods outside our home.
According the the producer who did the interview with us, the spot will run this Thursday at 8:10am on Today. So, for those of you with TiVo... be sure to set it! I'd LOVE to post a link to the video, assuming someone saves it for me. I also should get some good screen captures from Scott Fybush who'll be sure to save a copy. Now we'll have to wait until Tuesday to find out if they might fly us down to actually be on the show LIVE... but that would just be icing on the cake. Right now we're happy to be on a national television show. I'll post more when I've got stuff to show!
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Rochester Ferry - RIP (for now)
Well, the agonizing debates over whether or not the ferry from Rochester to Toronto is a good thing is over - and the ferry lost. Apparently there were a host of reasons why this thing failed - from a lack of experienced people in developing a plan, to the wrong boat size, to a total disinterest from the Canadian's, and a whole lot more.
As someone who was involved in the initial lobbying campaigns for the funding to do this project, here are a couple of my observations. First, CATS founder Dominick DeLucia was one of the slickest fast talkers I ever met. This was a guy who
"graduated first in my class at Simon School - or maybe second". Well, um, which is it? Either it was first or it wasn't... you can't even answer THAT question honestly? In his presentations to UNICON, the Chamber, City Council, the County Leg, and the State delegation, everything was very VERY fast, and very rosey. The numbers looked great, and why shouldn't they? He was looking for $15 million in state funding and loan guarantees!
The various delegations should be taking a big piece of the responsiblity for this failure - they valued union votes over fiscal responsibility, and they didn't use their staff to evaluate the plan. It was the unions (particularly the construction unions) who were really pushing this thing. In fact, I even developed an email e-advocacy campaign where people could send in their letters of support for the ferry to the delegation members! Well, just because lots of people support something, doesn't mean it's a good idea! What if I had a million people support building a giant swastica downtown? Would that mean we should fund the thing? They might STILL have supported it, but given the state had no further comittment to seeing this thing succeed (read: subsidy) they must have known deep in their gut that this was doomed to failure. Ever ride the ferry's in Seattle? They're not luxury, and they're not profitable... they're necessary means of transportation that is state subsidized. The fact is, the State and the Canadian government should have partially subsidized this thing as a mechanism to increase cross-border tourism - and with some simple math, could have figured out the long term benefits. But the state was "broke" and the Canadian's government is equally disfunctional as our own.
On the other hand, i LOVED the ferry. It was a great ride, and I WISH it could have worked, but it sounds more and more like we pulled another bush league move and allowed this thing to be managed by people we knew nothing about (CATS) and later run by a board of people who's real responsibilities lay elsewhere. Why oh why did they put all those City Council members on that board?! Didn't these people have a CITY to run? Couldn't they have brought on some sort of administrator who's single responsibility was seeing that this ferry company as AT LEAST RUN WELL?
If anything, this just proves that (a) City Council members really have very little to do and (b) they're not very good at doing real work when given the chance. Now obviously, the Mayor is also responsible for pushing City Council around - but it's not like that's hard to do with a group as weak as they were (I say "were" because we're finally seeing new people in City Council). And I applaud Karen Noble Hanson (did I just write that?) for her comments in the latest article about the lack of information given the ferry board. I also chide Gladys Santiago for saying everything was a-o-k and that they were given ample information. Gladys, you can stop kissing Johnson's ass now - he's gone - better start sucking up to Duffy or else you might be out of a "job".
Now, I hope that Duffy does something to give the city a real boost. Consider - we can still bond out money to do stuff, so long as the residents want them to! Why not bond out $11.5 million anyway and do a bunch of really nice public works? It shows a tangible comittment to the city, and it makes everyone feel better after this ferry fiasco. Considering all the good things going on downtown - Troup-Howell bridge, Sagamore on East, Corn Hill Landing, Paetec Park, Renaissance Center development, and a host of other things, including the exciting developments in loft apartments, bars, clubs, and restaurants - the City SHOULD take on some more debt to add to all this excitment and make people feel really good about downtown again.
My FIRST suggestion? Take some money and put up a sign across the old McGrory's building on Main Street that shows what's going to be built on that sight - even if it's only conceptual. Residents - and visitors - need to know that exciting stuff is happening in the City, with Renaissance Square being the most anticipated. I think that would be a step in the right direction to giving city residents a psychological boost. And while we're at it, spend some more on City cops to make our streets safer - that too would be a huge bonus to the area.
Just my two- no, six- no, twelve, BAKERS DOZEN, cents!
As someone who was involved in the initial lobbying campaigns for the funding to do this project, here are a couple of my observations. First, CATS founder Dominick DeLucia was one of the slickest fast talkers I ever met. This was a guy who
"graduated first in my class at Simon School - or maybe second". Well, um, which is it? Either it was first or it wasn't... you can't even answer THAT question honestly? In his presentations to UNICON, the Chamber, City Council, the County Leg, and the State delegation, everything was very VERY fast, and very rosey. The numbers looked great, and why shouldn't they? He was looking for $15 million in state funding and loan guarantees!
The various delegations should be taking a big piece of the responsiblity for this failure - they valued union votes over fiscal responsibility, and they didn't use their staff to evaluate the plan. It was the unions (particularly the construction unions) who were really pushing this thing. In fact, I even developed an email e-advocacy campaign where people could send in their letters of support for the ferry to the delegation members! Well, just because lots of people support something, doesn't mean it's a good idea! What if I had a million people support building a giant swastica downtown? Would that mean we should fund the thing? They might STILL have supported it, but given the state had no further comittment to seeing this thing succeed (read: subsidy) they must have known deep in their gut that this was doomed to failure. Ever ride the ferry's in Seattle? They're not luxury, and they're not profitable... they're necessary means of transportation that is state subsidized. The fact is, the State and the Canadian government should have partially subsidized this thing as a mechanism to increase cross-border tourism - and with some simple math, could have figured out the long term benefits. But the state was "broke" and the Canadian's government is equally disfunctional as our own.
On the other hand, i LOVED the ferry. It was a great ride, and I WISH it could have worked, but it sounds more and more like we pulled another bush league move and allowed this thing to be managed by people we knew nothing about (CATS) and later run by a board of people who's real responsibilities lay elsewhere. Why oh why did they put all those City Council members on that board?! Didn't these people have a CITY to run? Couldn't they have brought on some sort of administrator who's single responsibility was seeing that this ferry company as AT LEAST RUN WELL?
If anything, this just proves that (a) City Council members really have very little to do and (b) they're not very good at doing real work when given the chance. Now obviously, the Mayor is also responsible for pushing City Council around - but it's not like that's hard to do with a group as weak as they were (I say "were" because we're finally seeing new people in City Council). And I applaud Karen Noble Hanson (did I just write that?) for her comments in the latest article about the lack of information given the ferry board. I also chide Gladys Santiago for saying everything was a-o-k and that they were given ample information. Gladys, you can stop kissing Johnson's ass now - he's gone - better start sucking up to Duffy or else you might be out of a "job".
Now, I hope that Duffy does something to give the city a real boost. Consider - we can still bond out money to do stuff, so long as the residents want them to! Why not bond out $11.5 million anyway and do a bunch of really nice public works? It shows a tangible comittment to the city, and it makes everyone feel better after this ferry fiasco. Considering all the good things going on downtown - Troup-Howell bridge, Sagamore on East, Corn Hill Landing, Paetec Park, Renaissance Center development, and a host of other things, including the exciting developments in loft apartments, bars, clubs, and restaurants - the City SHOULD take on some more debt to add to all this excitment and make people feel really good about downtown again.
My FIRST suggestion? Take some money and put up a sign across the old McGrory's building on Main Street that shows what's going to be built on that sight - even if it's only conceptual. Residents - and visitors - need to know that exciting stuff is happening in the City, with Renaissance Square being the most anticipated. I think that would be a step in the right direction to giving city residents a psychological boost. And while we're at it, spend some more on City cops to make our streets safer - that too would be a huge bonus to the area.
Just my two- no, six- no, twelve, BAKERS DOZEN, cents!
Thursday, December 22, 2005
US Census numbers posted
Apparently, New York State might lose another 2 seats in the house based on our declining population. According to the latest figures from the Census Bureau, we're at about 19.2 million in population. California is at 36.1 million and Texas is at 22.8 million. Not too far behind is Florida at 17.78 million. All three of those states are growing - albeit California is just under 1% growth, whereas Florida is at 2.3% and Texas is at 1.7%. New York's population actually declined by 0.1% - so, basically we're staying equal. Nevada and Arizona are the two fastest growing states at 3.5% growth each.
The last time we had redistricting to eliminate two house seats it was a huge battle. And if we have to cut another two seats, it'll be worse. New York City is growing, but Upstate continues to lose population. Can we catch up, or reverse this trend? Could New York take the next four years and really change it's policies to improve the quality of life here - causing young people to stay and old people to retire here? The quality of life is good - and after spending some time this past summer in Arizona, I will tell you this: I will never live in Arizona.
This is a case of too many people moving into the dessert, and nature is going to rear it's ugly head and say, "What the fuck humans? This many of you aren't supposed to be here!" What happens if the water gets shut off for a day? Or the power goes down for a week? Even the most oppressive heat in Upstate New York... it's what? 95 degrees? But usually only for 4, 5, 6 days. But in Arizona during the summer? Come on people! Shit, I sweat all winter... if I were to move to Arizona I'd probably melt into nothingness. I'm not trying to pick on Arizona, but quite frankly, I wouldn't feel too badly for the thousands who are moving down there should they all roast without air conditioning for a month. Or possibly experience Return to Thunderdome like battles for drinking water. They'd deserve it for being so arrogant as to think millions of people are supposed to live in the dessert. Didn't Sam Kinneson already make the point? "THERE'S NO FUCKING FOOD IN THE DESSERT! OHHHH! OHHHHHHHHH!"
The last time we had redistricting to eliminate two house seats it was a huge battle. And if we have to cut another two seats, it'll be worse. New York City is growing, but Upstate continues to lose population. Can we catch up, or reverse this trend? Could New York take the next four years and really change it's policies to improve the quality of life here - causing young people to stay and old people to retire here? The quality of life is good - and after spending some time this past summer in Arizona, I will tell you this: I will never live in Arizona.
This is a case of too many people moving into the dessert, and nature is going to rear it's ugly head and say, "What the fuck humans? This many of you aren't supposed to be here!" What happens if the water gets shut off for a day? Or the power goes down for a week? Even the most oppressive heat in Upstate New York... it's what? 95 degrees? But usually only for 4, 5, 6 days. But in Arizona during the summer? Come on people! Shit, I sweat all winter... if I were to move to Arizona I'd probably melt into nothingness. I'm not trying to pick on Arizona, but quite frankly, I wouldn't feel too badly for the thousands who are moving down there should they all roast without air conditioning for a month. Or possibly experience Return to Thunderdome like battles for drinking water. They'd deserve it for being so arrogant as to think millions of people are supposed to live in the dessert. Didn't Sam Kinneson already make the point? "THERE'S NO FUCKING FOOD IN THE DESSERT! OHHHH! OHHHHHHHHH!"
Friday, December 16, 2005
Dave's New Car
I'm getting a new car. Now, it's not until March of 06', but I just put in the order. What am I getting? Well, not another Audi, that's for sure. Don't get me wrong, I loved the four-wheel drive, and comfort of heated seats, mirrors, and a good stereo system. However, I didn't love taking the damn thing to the shop twice a month for four years for various problems - ranging from big annoying engine problems to having turn signals, breaklights, and other minor things happen on a regular basis. In fact, as I write this, I have a break light that's out AND a front turn signal. This, after JUST having the car in for it's 60,000 mile service. As a result, while I still love the IDEA of the Audi - particularly a lot of functionality in a car for around $32,000, Julie will never let me get another one. Ever.
That being said, I also drive about 70 miles a day. No, not 70 miles and hour - which is something I frequently do too - but per day. That's going back and forth between Greece and Canandaigua. As a result, I seriously considered a hybrid car - the Prius. I priced it out, and in general thought it was a good idea. However, it took Toyota WAY too long to (a) add the 2006 model information online and (b) have even a 2005 model sitting at any Toyota dealership for me to look at. As such, I came to the conclusion to screw it and instead check out the new Honda Civic Hybrid.
Very cool! I actually got to test drive one at Holtz, and I like what I saw. The one I'm getting includes the navigation system which will be great - especially given the occasional trips we take and don't know where the heck we're going. Here's a picture of the car in the color I'm getting (more or less - just add fog lights for the full effect):
Throw in every feature known to man and the thing comes in just under $25000. Not bad for a car that also gets me about 50mpg on the highway. That's nearly double what I'm doing now, and on regular gas - not the 93 octane the Audi demands! So, in the long run, I'm bumping down the cost of my fillups, and doing it only once a week - not twice! Yeah, it's not all wheel drive, but how often do I take advantage of that? I'd guess 95 percent of my driving these days is highway driving, and the roads are usually fine.
Anyway, I'll post more on here once I know more - and maybe when i can post some more photos and order status update. But right now, the timing is perfect and should have it at the end of February, beginning of March.
That being said, I also drive about 70 miles a day. No, not 70 miles and hour - which is something I frequently do too - but per day. That's going back and forth between Greece and Canandaigua. As a result, I seriously considered a hybrid car - the Prius. I priced it out, and in general thought it was a good idea. However, it took Toyota WAY too long to (a) add the 2006 model information online and (b) have even a 2005 model sitting at any Toyota dealership for me to look at. As such, I came to the conclusion to screw it and instead check out the new Honda Civic Hybrid.
Very cool! I actually got to test drive one at Holtz, and I like what I saw. The one I'm getting includes the navigation system which will be great - especially given the occasional trips we take and don't know where the heck we're going. Here's a picture of the car in the color I'm getting (more or less - just add fog lights for the full effect):
Throw in every feature known to man and the thing comes in just under $25000. Not bad for a car that also gets me about 50mpg on the highway. That's nearly double what I'm doing now, and on regular gas - not the 93 octane the Audi demands! So, in the long run, I'm bumping down the cost of my fillups, and doing it only once a week - not twice! Yeah, it's not all wheel drive, but how often do I take advantage of that? I'd guess 95 percent of my driving these days is highway driving, and the roads are usually fine.
Anyway, I'll post more on here once I know more - and maybe when i can post some more photos and order status update. But right now, the timing is perfect and should have it at the end of February, beginning of March.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
The Good Feet Store - What's up with this shit?
OK - I am sick of the damn commercials for the The Good Feet Store. You know those commercials? "Hi I'm Doctor So-and-so, and my patients with (insert foot disorder here) weren't getting better using a custom orthotics, so I sent them to the good feet store and WOW! They're cured!"
Um, not to sound too stupid, Dr. So-and-so, but, aren't you supposed to be a PODIATRIST? That means to me, an expert in the medicine of the foot? If you're prescribing someone a custom orthoitic, shouldn't it work? How come The Good Feet store can get it right, but you, a DOCTOR, can't help your patients with their painful foot disorders?! What do they have over the counter that could possibly be better than a CUSTOM ORTHOTIC. Presumedly, something that's custom should be better than anything The Good Feet Store can sell me - because the custom one was developed just for ME. Not everyone else who has sore feet, or a sore back, or whatever, but ME! ME! ME! ME! ME! ME!
Maybe I'm stupid? So, I did a Google search to look up the definition of "custom orthotic" and here's what I found:
"Custom-made orthotics are medical devices that allow the feet and ankles to function without pain, and to protect them from repetitive stress of various activities."
Maybe the "Doctor" in this radio commercial is really just one of those "I'm not a doctor, but I play one on TV (or the radio)" kinds of doctors? Apparently. Either that, or she's the worst podiatrist in the world because her years of medical education have resulted in her custom orthotics being total shit compared to what I can get at The Good Feet Store!
Oh, but it gets better. Here's the definition from The Good Feet Store's website about what the heck they even do: "The Good Feet Store™ personally size your feet for arch supports through biomechanics and your footprint to help you choose an arch support design that will work best from your feet up. After wearing Good Feet Arch Supports, your feet are more correctly aligned and better balanced, causing you to stand straighter, feel taller and pull your stomach in, reducing stress on your back."
Isn't this the same thing as a damn custom orthotic?! It sounds like snake oil to me. Not only does it help your feet, but it also helps your back, makes you taller, and gets rid of your gut! Now if only it got rid of The Consumption, and maybe infant colic, too! And for this purported podiatrist to send her patients there, when it sounds like they do the same thing she does... doesn't that mean that they're competitors? Or, perhaps the doctor doesn't really care cause, well, shit, you've paid her probably $75 for the office visit, and other $200 for HER LOUSY CUSTOM ORTHOTIC THAT DIDN'T WORK, so she's already raped you for nearly $300... why not send you off to someone else to spend god only knows how much more money. Maybe she even gets a kickback from The Good Feet Store?
I may be taking this a bit far, but everytime I hear that commercial on the radio it pisses me off.
Um, not to sound too stupid, Dr. So-and-so, but, aren't you supposed to be a PODIATRIST? That means to me, an expert in the medicine of the foot? If you're prescribing someone a custom orthoitic, shouldn't it work? How come The Good Feet store can get it right, but you, a DOCTOR, can't help your patients with their painful foot disorders?! What do they have over the counter that could possibly be better than a CUSTOM ORTHOTIC. Presumedly, something that's custom should be better than anything The Good Feet Store can sell me - because the custom one was developed just for ME. Not everyone else who has sore feet, or a sore back, or whatever, but ME! ME! ME! ME! ME! ME!
Maybe I'm stupid? So, I did a Google search to look up the definition of "custom orthotic" and here's what I found:
"Custom-made orthotics are medical devices that allow the feet and ankles to function without pain, and to protect them from repetitive stress of various activities."
Maybe the "Doctor" in this radio commercial is really just one of those "I'm not a doctor, but I play one on TV (or the radio)" kinds of doctors? Apparently. Either that, or she's the worst podiatrist in the world because her years of medical education have resulted in her custom orthotics being total shit compared to what I can get at The Good Feet Store!
Oh, but it gets better. Here's the definition from The Good Feet Store's website about what the heck they even do: "The Good Feet Store™ personally size your feet for arch supports through biomechanics and your footprint to help you choose an arch support design that will work best from your feet up. After wearing Good Feet Arch Supports, your feet are more correctly aligned and better balanced, causing you to stand straighter, feel taller and pull your stomach in, reducing stress on your back."
Isn't this the same thing as a damn custom orthotic?! It sounds like snake oil to me. Not only does it help your feet, but it also helps your back, makes you taller, and gets rid of your gut! Now if only it got rid of The Consumption, and maybe infant colic, too! And for this purported podiatrist to send her patients there, when it sounds like they do the same thing she does... doesn't that mean that they're competitors? Or, perhaps the doctor doesn't really care cause, well, shit, you've paid her probably $75 for the office visit, and other $200 for HER LOUSY CUSTOM ORTHOTIC THAT DIDN'T WORK, so she's already raped you for nearly $300... why not send you off to someone else to spend god only knows how much more money. Maybe she even gets a kickback from The Good Feet Store?
I may be taking this a bit far, but everytime I hear that commercial on the radio it pisses me off.
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