The political football called the financial crisis has been thrown around now for many months. Fortunately, a congressional commission on the financial crisis has studied this. A member of this commission is Peter Wallison. He gave an interview with the WSJ. That interview is embedded in this blog.
One thing he leaves out is the fact that when the sale of lower priced housing is facilitated by Government intervention, it creates a ripple effect up the value chain. When you have a buyer for your house, you can sell and buy a larger and more expensive house for yourself. This false demand creates a false market which eventually will crash.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Friday, March 12, 2010
obama's Health Care, the BAD and the UGLY!
Health care for the uninformed:
The health care bill in congress now is about to be passed into law, if the Democrats have there way. They WANT IT BAD! Why? Why would they jeopardize their jobs to get this thing passed. First of all 80% of the folks think that the government will screw it all up; increasing costs and decreasing the quality of healthcare in this country.
Why? This is why! The leaders of the Democrat party DO NOT CARE that they may loose control of both Houses of Congress in 2010. Because they know, if they pass this monstrosity, it will never go away. It will always be with us in some form or another. Even with control of the House and the Senate, the Republicans will not be able to repeal the bill because obama will veto any repeal. So, the Health Care Bill will be in effect for 3 years. By then there will be enough people sold on the idea that it will be next to impossible to repeal. Once an entitlement is enacted it is almost impossible to turn it around.
But here is the catch.
The benefits will not be in effect until 4 years after people start paying the taxes used to pay for the bill. Taxes will go up and the people will not have the obama-promise! What taxes, you say? Well, how about FICA on dividends, savings, and annuity accounts. Yes, I know, this is only for the very rich and is only a small percentage. But, when do you think the bar defining the rich will be lowered so that it reached the middle class? I predict, not too long!
Here are some other items to think about.
1) A recent CNN poll puts voters' backing of the obama administration's health bill at just 25 percent. So why does obama want to force this on Americans. Well, once an entitlement is enacted it is almost impossible to reverse it and the power will eventually morph to the Democrats. If you are dependent on the Government for your healthcare, would you vote for a Republican who wants to repeal your gravy-train? No, of course!
2) Several sections of the bill mandate racial and ethnic quotas for medical schools and other federal contractors.
3) On Page 425 of Obama's health care bill, the Federal Government will require EVERYONE who is on Social Security to undergo a counseling session every 5 years with the objective being that they will explain to them just how to end their own life earlier.
4) Employers will pay a fine if they do not insure part time employees.
5) Whether you want insurance or not, you will have to get insurance. If not, you will pay a fine of $5,000 per individual.
6) The bills in both houses require that Americans purchase insurance through "qualified" plans offered by health-care "exchanges" that would be set up in each state. The rub is that the plans can't really compete based on what they offer. The reason: The federal government will impose a minimum list of benefits that each plan is required to offer.
7) Along with the above, there is what is called Community Rating in the bill. In its purest form, community rating requires that all patients pay the same rates for their level of coverage regardless of their age or medical condition.
8) Some of us have started HSA's (Health Savings Accounts). By requiring minimum packages, obama care would prevent patients from choosing stripped-down plans that cover only major medical expenses. The government could set extremely low deductibles that would eliminate HSAs.
9) If, God forbid, they get their way, the obama people will force independent insurance companies out of business by providing Government Insurance. Of course, the Government does not have to make a profit and they can print money! Once the Government is in the insurance business, they will eventually force out private insurance companies because of their competitive advantage. Once they are in control (monopoly), they will control all of our health care.
10) Why would a business pay for an employee's health care insurance if the fine for not doing so is only $5,000? Businesses will just let the Government pay for their employees insurance. When they drop this, will they raise your salary? I don't think so!
11) On PG 50 Section 152 in HC bill – obama health care will be provided to ALL non US citizens, illegal or otherwise.
12) Government will have real-time access to individual’s finances and a National ID Healthcard will be issued!
13) Pg 59 HC Bill lines 21-24 Government will have direct access to your bank accts for election funds transfer.
14) PG 85 Line 7 HC Bill – Specifics of Benefit Levels for Plans = The Government will ration your Healthcare!
15) pg 127 Lines 1-16 HC Bill – Doctors/ AMA – The Government will tell YOU what you can earn.
You know, I am tired of quoting the research of desertconservative.com. (http://www.desertconservative.com/2009/07/23/healthcare-bill-facts-obama-does-not-want-you-to-know/) . Just go there and get some education for yourself!
I HATE INSURANCE COMPANIES!. Yes, I do think there needs to be health insurance reform, but I think obama has the wrong plan!
Here is what I would do to make health insurance work.
First of all, I do not think health insurance is a right! Particularly, Government Health Insurance! Why, for Gods sake do people think other people (ie tax payers) should pick up the cost of health care for all?
1) First, I would allow insurance companies to compete across State lines. Why, for Gods sake, has this not been the law until now? How may Progressive or Geico commercials have you seen in the last month? I just talked to my insurance broker today and he is working on better rates for me on my auto insurance. I got a quote from Wells Fargo, who has a relationship with several insurance companies. I then went to my broker and asked him to compete. HE DID, and my premiums are going to drop by $900 per year!
WHY can't Health Care be the same. Why can't Health Care Companies compete across state lines? Well, that is because the Government will not allow Insurance companies to do this!!!!
2) Tort Reform!!! Not one mention of Tort Reform int his bill! My wife was a nurse for her whole career, so I know of what I speak! Doctors pay HUGE mal-practice insurance premiums! And, we are talking about, in the $100,000's of dollars! My doctor called me the other day and wanted me to get a procedure and I got mad at his nurse. I knew that it was just "Cover my ass" medicine! WHY do we have this ... Well, it is because of the tort lawyers!
3) Let the FDA approve meds without such restrictions. Let patients receive drugs ( with waivers, of course) for experimental drugs. In addition, let people buy drugs across state and international lines.
I am tired and hungry. I must end this RANT and go live my life.
People, please educate yourselves on this issue, your life and your children's life will depend on it.
The health care bill in congress now is about to be passed into law, if the Democrats have there way. They WANT IT BAD! Why? Why would they jeopardize their jobs to get this thing passed. First of all 80% of the folks think that the government will screw it all up; increasing costs and decreasing the quality of healthcare in this country.
Why? This is why! The leaders of the Democrat party DO NOT CARE that they may loose control of both Houses of Congress in 2010. Because they know, if they pass this monstrosity, it will never go away. It will always be with us in some form or another. Even with control of the House and the Senate, the Republicans will not be able to repeal the bill because obama will veto any repeal. So, the Health Care Bill will be in effect for 3 years. By then there will be enough people sold on the idea that it will be next to impossible to repeal. Once an entitlement is enacted it is almost impossible to turn it around.
But here is the catch.
The benefits will not be in effect until 4 years after people start paying the taxes used to pay for the bill. Taxes will go up and the people will not have the obama-promise! What taxes, you say? Well, how about FICA on dividends, savings, and annuity accounts. Yes, I know, this is only for the very rich and is only a small percentage. But, when do you think the bar defining the rich will be lowered so that it reached the middle class? I predict, not too long!
Here are some other items to think about.
1) A recent CNN poll puts voters' backing of the obama administration's health bill at just 25 percent. So why does obama want to force this on Americans. Well, once an entitlement is enacted it is almost impossible to reverse it and the power will eventually morph to the Democrats. If you are dependent on the Government for your healthcare, would you vote for a Republican who wants to repeal your gravy-train? No, of course!
2) Several sections of the bill mandate racial and ethnic quotas for medical schools and other federal contractors.
3) On Page 425 of Obama's health care bill, the Federal Government will require EVERYONE who is on Social Security to undergo a counseling session every 5 years with the objective being that they will explain to them just how to end their own life earlier.
4) Employers will pay a fine if they do not insure part time employees.
5) Whether you want insurance or not, you will have to get insurance. If not, you will pay a fine of $5,000 per individual.
6) The bills in both houses require that Americans purchase insurance through "qualified" plans offered by health-care "exchanges" that would be set up in each state. The rub is that the plans can't really compete based on what they offer. The reason: The federal government will impose a minimum list of benefits that each plan is required to offer.
7) Along with the above, there is what is called Community Rating in the bill. In its purest form, community rating requires that all patients pay the same rates for their level of coverage regardless of their age or medical condition.
8) Some of us have started HSA's (Health Savings Accounts). By requiring minimum packages, obama care would prevent patients from choosing stripped-down plans that cover only major medical expenses. The government could set extremely low deductibles that would eliminate HSAs.
9) If, God forbid, they get their way, the obama people will force independent insurance companies out of business by providing Government Insurance. Of course, the Government does not have to make a profit and they can print money! Once the Government is in the insurance business, they will eventually force out private insurance companies because of their competitive advantage. Once they are in control (monopoly), they will control all of our health care.
10) Why would a business pay for an employee's health care insurance if the fine for not doing so is only $5,000? Businesses will just let the Government pay for their employees insurance. When they drop this, will they raise your salary? I don't think so!
11) On PG 50 Section 152 in HC bill – obama health care will be provided to ALL non US citizens, illegal or otherwise.
12) Government will have real-time access to individual’s finances and a National ID Healthcard will be issued!
13) Pg 59 HC Bill lines 21-24 Government will have direct access to your bank accts for election funds transfer.
14) PG 85 Line 7 HC Bill – Specifics of Benefit Levels for Plans = The Government will ration your Healthcare!
15) pg 127 Lines 1-16 HC Bill – Doctors/ AMA – The Government will tell YOU what you can earn.
You know, I am tired of quoting the research of desertconservative.com. (http://www.desertconservative.com/2009/07/23/healthcare-bill-facts-obama-does-not-want-you-to-know/) . Just go there and get some education for yourself!
I HATE INSURANCE COMPANIES!. Yes, I do think there needs to be health insurance reform, but I think obama has the wrong plan!
Here is what I would do to make health insurance work.
First of all, I do not think health insurance is a right! Particularly, Government Health Insurance! Why, for Gods sake do people think other people (ie tax payers) should pick up the cost of health care for all?
1) First, I would allow insurance companies to compete across State lines. Why, for Gods sake, has this not been the law until now? How may Progressive or Geico commercials have you seen in the last month? I just talked to my insurance broker today and he is working on better rates for me on my auto insurance. I got a quote from Wells Fargo, who has a relationship with several insurance companies. I then went to my broker and asked him to compete. HE DID, and my premiums are going to drop by $900 per year!
WHY can't Health Care be the same. Why can't Health Care Companies compete across state lines? Well, that is because the Government will not allow Insurance companies to do this!!!!
2) Tort Reform!!! Not one mention of Tort Reform int his bill! My wife was a nurse for her whole career, so I know of what I speak! Doctors pay HUGE mal-practice insurance premiums! And, we are talking about, in the $100,000's of dollars! My doctor called me the other day and wanted me to get a procedure and I got mad at his nurse. I knew that it was just "Cover my ass" medicine! WHY do we have this ... Well, it is because of the tort lawyers!
3) Let the FDA approve meds without such restrictions. Let patients receive drugs ( with waivers, of course) for experimental drugs. In addition, let people buy drugs across state and international lines.
I am tired and hungry. I must end this RANT and go live my life.
People, please educate yourselves on this issue, your life and your children's life will depend on it.
Monday, March 01, 2010
The Government health care debate is all about class envy!
The left is screaming for Government health care which the right wants no part of.
The left should ask themselves; Why is health care a right? Why do you want someone else to pay for your health care? Because that is just exactly what Government health care is all about. Where does Government get its money except from taxes to pay for all this?
Why do you want Government involved except to pay a little or, for most lefties, all of your doctor bills.
Think about this; What if everyone in the country had the same amount of money? Yes, the same amount. The same type of house; the same net worth; the same income? Would you want the Government to run your health care? I don’t think so. Just think of the entity that runs the Post Office, the DMV, Social Security, Medicare, education, and the IRS, telling you which doctor to go to and how much money you have available to pay for the doctor’s services.
They, meaning the left, say that 40,000,000 folks are uninsured implying that they have no health care. And that if only they had it, they would be saved from sickness, short lifespans, and whatever. Then when the obvious result of adding that many people into the system is predicted to bring shortages, and lines at the doctor’s office, they scream that it isn’t true. Well, how in the world are you going to bring that many people into the system without adding about 200,000 doctors. Let alone all the nurses and offices and all that goes along with seeing patients?
In addition, do you really think the Government is going to allow end of life health care to bankrupt the system. Like, when your 85 yr old grand-dad is treated for cancer at $120,000/month. No, they will just say that it is his obligation to just die, baby die!
Sound like a system you want? I do not think so. So I submit that it is just a matter of money. If everyone had the same amount of money everything would be just fine and your health care would be just as good, what ever that means, as your neighbor’s, or those “Fat Cat” Wall Street banking CEO’s or those Hollywood actors, or those sports superstars.
You don’t really want Government health care. What you really want is a redistribution of the country’s wealth. What you really want is a Marxist, Socialistic society. And your vehicle for getting this through the Government process is by using class envy.
The left should ask themselves; Why is health care a right? Why do you want someone else to pay for your health care? Because that is just exactly what Government health care is all about. Where does Government get its money except from taxes to pay for all this?
Why do you want Government involved except to pay a little or, for most lefties, all of your doctor bills.
Think about this; What if everyone in the country had the same amount of money? Yes, the same amount. The same type of house; the same net worth; the same income? Would you want the Government to run your health care? I don’t think so. Just think of the entity that runs the Post Office, the DMV, Social Security, Medicare, education, and the IRS, telling you which doctor to go to and how much money you have available to pay for the doctor’s services.
They, meaning the left, say that 40,000,000 folks are uninsured implying that they have no health care. And that if only they had it, they would be saved from sickness, short lifespans, and whatever. Then when the obvious result of adding that many people into the system is predicted to bring shortages, and lines at the doctor’s office, they scream that it isn’t true. Well, how in the world are you going to bring that many people into the system without adding about 200,000 doctors. Let alone all the nurses and offices and all that goes along with seeing patients?
In addition, do you really think the Government is going to allow end of life health care to bankrupt the system. Like, when your 85 yr old grand-dad is treated for cancer at $120,000/month. No, they will just say that it is his obligation to just die, baby die!
Sound like a system you want? I do not think so. So I submit that it is just a matter of money. If everyone had the same amount of money everything would be just fine and your health care would be just as good, what ever that means, as your neighbor’s, or those “Fat Cat” Wall Street banking CEO’s or those Hollywood actors, or those sports superstars.
You don’t really want Government health care. What you really want is a redistribution of the country’s wealth. What you really want is a Marxist, Socialistic society. And your vehicle for getting this through the Government process is by using class envy.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Michelle obama is a hypocrite!
This last week Michael obama is coming out and telling young folks to stop eating ... YOU say what?
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Life Is GOOD!
At the ranch with my son and my son-in-law. Opened up the ranch today. Lots of work, but all fun. Worked a little and played a little. Put the flat-bed away. brought out the mill, Fixed the beaver destruction south and started all the work-horses. Started all the ATV's the Mule and the Toyota. Used my new charger to recondition all the batteries
Finished at 3:30 pm and started some games of horseshoes. Benj beat Joe and then Dad beat Son ... 21 to 1 (should have been a skunk!). Took on Son-in-Law and got the skunk. Horseshoes ... just like riding a bike. You never loose the knack.
Tomorrow we fix the Stambaugh-Ross Ditch. and put away the boards that cover the window for the winter.
Cabin looks great. Looking forward to finishing and starting the cabin for Susan and me.
Finished at 3:30 pm and started some games of horseshoes. Benj beat Joe and then Dad beat Son ... 21 to 1 (should have been a skunk!). Took on Son-in-Law and got the skunk. Horseshoes ... just like riding a bike. You never loose the knack.
Tomorrow we fix the Stambaugh-Ross Ditch. and put away the boards that cover the window for the winter.
Cabin looks great. Looking forward to finishing and starting the cabin for Susan and me.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Stimulus?? Hell NO! This is a Spending Bill
I just have to respond to this absurd STIMULUS bill passed and signed by our Savior and Chief Mr Obama. I was pursuing the blogs when I came across an idiot who said the following:
Wow, I am amazed at how little economics people know but are willing to just say things regardless. I am pissed off at the stimulus bill exactly because of tax cuts. Cutting taxes is exactly opposite of stimulating economy — creating worthwhile projects is the way to do it. The fact that the same Republicans that gave us 1 trillion in debt are asking for more tax cuts is shameful. Did this country have a lobotomy after January 1st? We had tax cuts for 8 years… So the only question is: Are you better off now than 8 years ago?
I responded:
Pearl, you obviously do NOT know a twip about economics. You say: “creating worthwhile projects” is the way to go. You have no clue.
You do not inject $1 trillion dollars into the economy with out the real threat of inflation. Productive people and businesses create goods and services that they trade between each other in the open market. If you just inject $$$ into the system ($1 or $2 TRILLION), you create a demand/supply imbalance. Lots of money buying fewer goods (because this stimulus DOES NOT produce anything) there will be shortages and the price of goods will go up.
The argument about tax cuts is a freedom issue. I would rather spend my money on goods or services I choose to buy rather than the Government choosing where to spend it. I produce and buy from other producers. You want Government, who does not produce a dammed thing, to spend my money! This country is in dire shape if people like you are in control.
Econ 101 my dear!
As I say in my profile:
My greatest peeve is the downward spiral of education in our country as it has produced nothing but confident idiots who blindly follow the most recent social fads and worship todays most popular icon.
Wow, I am amazed at how little economics people know but are willing to just say things regardless. I am pissed off at the stimulus bill exactly because of tax cuts. Cutting taxes is exactly opposite of stimulating economy — creating worthwhile projects is the way to do it. The fact that the same Republicans that gave us 1 trillion in debt are asking for more tax cuts is shameful. Did this country have a lobotomy after January 1st? We had tax cuts for 8 years… So the only question is: Are you better off now than 8 years ago?
I responded:
Pearl, you obviously do NOT know a twip about economics. You say: “creating worthwhile projects” is the way to go. You have no clue.
You do not inject $1 trillion dollars into the economy with out the real threat of inflation. Productive people and businesses create goods and services that they trade between each other in the open market. If you just inject $$$ into the system ($1 or $2 TRILLION), you create a demand/supply imbalance. Lots of money buying fewer goods (because this stimulus DOES NOT produce anything) there will be shortages and the price of goods will go up.
The argument about tax cuts is a freedom issue. I would rather spend my money on goods or services I choose to buy rather than the Government choosing where to spend it. I produce and buy from other producers. You want Government, who does not produce a dammed thing, to spend my money! This country is in dire shape if people like you are in control.
Econ 101 my dear!
As I say in my profile:
My greatest peeve is the downward spiral of education in our country as it has produced nothing but confident idiots who blindly follow the most recent social fads and worship todays most popular icon.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Timber Frame Completed
This week was quite a week. On Monday I called the boss of D@?!# the electrical inspector and complained about D@?!#'s demeanor and his combative nature. The boss tried to explain the situation and mentioned that there was some miscommunication. I complained that D@?!# had problems with owner-builders and he was cherry-picking items to fail me, like finding new items that needed to be fixed on each visit. The red tag could have shut us down, but it did not happened this week. And the inspection that was scheduled on Thursday never happened. I think my electrical-inspector troubles have ended.
The timber frame was completed this week and it is above all expectations. The frame itself was completed on Tuesday and the roof was installed on Thursday. All of the planks that I milled and the nephews planed and Susan sprayed with Symphony were put up with tar paper stapled on top. The effect was beautiful. The Symphony is a water based product that is supposed to protect the wood from yellowing. The frame itself will yellow, but the planks should not.
As this project comes together, I get more excited about the potential. The views are spectacular and the building is timeless.
On Wednesday the Cattleman's Trust folks came by. Chris West introduced me to the new gal that we will work with for the last three easements and I gave her a tour of the ranch. The presented us with a great big surprise when they announced that the past owner's son approved a grant to the Cattleman's to pay the transaction costs for our easement.
I discussed with Joe Bonn, the builder of the frame about using his workers to help with the infill framing. This, he said, will work great for him as they are between projects and a project to keep his workers busy was timely. This really takes a load off my back. This was a huge job that would have taken me forever. Tis way, I can concentrate on the siding and the interior flooring.
It rained on Friday and not much on the frame got done. I planned on setting up the deck beams, but the rain prevented me from getting exact measurements. I did, however, try out my new mortiser machine. It works great and will save me hours of time with my timber-framing. We have company this weekend, but I should be relieved from entertaining them as the Menks are here with their friends. I will continue to work on the frame.
Below I share some pictures of the work this week
The timber frame was completed this week and it is above all expectations. The frame itself was completed on Tuesday and the roof was installed on Thursday. All of the planks that I milled and the nephews planed and Susan sprayed with Symphony were put up with tar paper stapled on top. The effect was beautiful. The Symphony is a water based product that is supposed to protect the wood from yellowing. The frame itself will yellow, but the planks should not.
As this project comes together, I get more excited about the potential. The views are spectacular and the building is timeless.
On Wednesday the Cattleman's Trust folks came by. Chris West introduced me to the new gal that we will work with for the last three easements and I gave her a tour of the ranch. The presented us with a great big surprise when they announced that the past owner's son approved a grant to the Cattleman's to pay the transaction costs for our easement.
I discussed with Joe Bonn, the builder of the frame about using his workers to help with the infill framing. This, he said, will work great for him as they are between projects and a project to keep his workers busy was timely. This really takes a load off my back. This was a huge job that would have taken me forever. Tis way, I can concentrate on the siding and the interior flooring.
It rained on Friday and not much on the frame got done. I planned on setting up the deck beams, but the rain prevented me from getting exact measurements. I did, however, try out my new mortiser machine. It works great and will save me hours of time with my timber-framing. We have company this weekend, but I should be relieved from entertaining them as the Menks are here with their friends. I will continue to work on the frame.
Below I share some pictures of the work this week
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Electrical Inspector displays Peter Principle
Got a surprise electrical inspection on Friday. Good old D@?!# shows up when I was told we were not to receive an inspection until next Thursday! When I talked to the head inspector last week, we agreed that the fix I had on the Lake Cabin temp power was ok until the next inspection. When D@?!# showed up he said that he expected the fixes to be done and that I "LIED" to Rod the boss and to him as to what was to be done.
Only when frustration turned into anger did he back off. I told him that I thought that he was against me from the start because I was doing my only work. He was taken back by my aggression and he responded that he works with homeowners all the time and is only concerned with safety. I reminded him about his continual comment about how an electrician would not have made my mistakes and would have supplies on his truck to fix errors. I responded by stating that if a responsible electrician had given me a bid, I would not be doing the work.
I said to him that he should be trying to help me rather than trying to bust me. I think this hit home because from there on he was more helpful.
He red flagged the meter and gave me the impression that he would not have Mt Parks pull it until he came back to inspect at some future date.
It is obvious to me that he is milking the thing. This is the second inspection and he is finding new things that he wants me to fix. I feel that if he did not mention an error the first time, it is unfair for him to use a new visit to extend the permit with new finds
I look forward to seeing him again as I feel he has purposefully left items unnoted so he can catch me with another fix next time. One item is the lack of a finish plate on a 50 amp receptacle in the old shop. I was stunned that he did not mention it in the first inspection. After the second I decided to head him off by purchasing the plate when I went to Walden to get supplies to fix the Lake Cabin panel.
We shall see!
Only when frustration turned into anger did he back off. I told him that I thought that he was against me from the start because I was doing my only work. He was taken back by my aggression and he responded that he works with homeowners all the time and is only concerned with safety. I reminded him about his continual comment about how an electrician would not have made my mistakes and would have supplies on his truck to fix errors. I responded by stating that if a responsible electrician had given me a bid, I would not be doing the work.
I said to him that he should be trying to help me rather than trying to bust me. I think this hit home because from there on he was more helpful.
He red flagged the meter and gave me the impression that he would not have Mt Parks pull it until he came back to inspect at some future date.
It is obvious to me that he is milking the thing. This is the second inspection and he is finding new things that he wants me to fix. I feel that if he did not mention an error the first time, it is unfair for him to use a new visit to extend the permit with new finds
I look forward to seeing him again as I feel he has purposefully left items unnoted so he can catch me with another fix next time. One item is the lack of a finish plate on a 50 amp receptacle in the old shop. I was stunned that he did not mention it in the first inspection. After the second I decided to head him off by purchasing the plate when I went to Walden to get supplies to fix the Lake Cabin panel.
We shall see!
Thursday, August 07, 2008
Timber Frame Erection Starts!!!
The timber frame started to go up yesterday with the floor joists being constructed.
Luckily, the electrical fiasco came to an end when I talked to the boss of the inspector that gave me such a problem last week. I told him that I had fixed the deficiencies that were notated by the inspector and was wondering whether he would be up this Thursday or not for a final inspection. He said that since I was the only inspection up here in North Park, that they would not be up this week and that since that was the case, he would pass the inspection on a temp basis until they came up here. He called Mt Parks Electric and released the job so the meter could be installed. Joe Lance of Mt Parks came over about 2PM and installed the meter (3333) and we were in like flint!
The first day the crew installed the rim joists, the floor joists and the OSB flooring.
Day two was the raising of the bents. Because some of the wood twisted and shrank the center bent was a challenge, but it all got done and by the end of the day two of the bents were done and the ridge beam set. Since Joe works 4 10's they went home to return on Monday to finish the frame.
Below are some pictures of the progress. If you want to see all of the pictures take a look at:
http://gallery.me.com/nshoffner#100207
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Luckily, the electrical fiasco came to an end when I talked to the boss of the inspector that gave me such a problem last week. I told him that I had fixed the deficiencies that were notated by the inspector and was wondering whether he would be up this Thursday or not for a final inspection. He said that since I was the only inspection up here in North Park, that they would not be up this week and that since that was the case, he would pass the inspection on a temp basis until they came up here. He called Mt Parks Electric and released the job so the meter could be installed. Joe Lance of Mt Parks came over about 2PM and installed the meter (3333) and we were in like flint!
The first day the crew installed the rim joists, the floor joists and the OSB flooring.
Day two was the raising of the bents. Because some of the wood twisted and shrank the center bent was a challenge, but it all got done and by the end of the day two of the bents were done and the ridge beam set. Since Joe works 4 10's they went home to return on Monday to finish the frame.
Below are some pictures of the progress. If you want to see all of the pictures take a look at:
http://gallery.me.com/nshoffner#100207
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Monday, August 04, 2008
Electrical Inspector from Hell
Got the bad news on Thursday that I did not pass the electrical inspection on the cabin. There were three items that he did not like. First the ground wire was not connected to the main panel at the meter. This was because the power company did not want it connected while they erected the mast to the transformer. The second was the temp panel did not have weather protected connectors to the receptacle box. The third was that the main conductor was not protected from the ground to the panel.
I asked if he would wait for me to get the tools (1/4 miles away) and fix the items and he gave me a lecture on how I should have used an electrician who would have had the supplies and tools there at the site and that he had a three hour drive ahead of him to get home. I did not say what I wanted to at the time that trying to get an electrician to come to a remote location in a rural area is impossible! I had one come to the site and look at the job. After waiting for 3 weeks for a response, I gave up and decided to do it myself.
The repairs took 25 minutes to do and now I have to wait for another week to get electricity. In the mean time I will have to rent a generator to do the erection of the frame this week.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Timber Frame Cabin; an anthology (and I don't mean collection of flowers)
This summer I started a new project ... a timber frame cabin. When Colorado was decimated with the pine beetle, I was devastated. Our ranch is covered with old growth Aspen, but we do have conifers which include the Lodge-pole Pine, the tree hardest hit by the beetle.. Then someone gave me the idea to buy a mill and put to use all that dead timber (I figure we have close to 1000 Lodge-pole Pines on the property). Well, I sold a seldom used tractor and purchased a bandsaw mill from TimberKing.
After I cut several of the trees down and saw how the forest responded by revealing much new growth not noticed when the old growth was overwhelming the view, I felt much better about the situation. And, from that point on, I looked at dead trees in a whole new light. I now look at a dead standing tree and assess its straightness, and thickness for the purpose of providing lumber for my many new projects. Oh, did I say a cabin? Well, yes, but, why not a new house for my wife Susan and me? And, how about a new shed, or a bedroom behind the existing house. The possibilities are endless when all you need do is cut down a tree and cut it into any sized lumber you want. No more going to the lumber yard to purchase over-priced wood for a project. Just cut your own to the dimensions you desire!
In the coming months.... years? I will write entries into this blog describing my trip down this path. I hope it will be of interest to others than my family getting a look-see at the progress. I know that when I started my search and research on the subject of Timber-frame building, I found a couple of sites doing this, and I found the info useful.
I will post pictures when possible showing the progress and, although I have high hopes, I know that when it comes to keeping these types of blogs current it is hard (I find myself very tired at night after a full day do this), I will try to keep the entries current as best as I can.
As I write this entry, the first big day of the project looms. Tomorrow, I will have an electrical inspection on the new service I installed to the cabin and to the old shop on the property. I have been working for several weeks now getting this done and finally I have my "final" exam. The whole process of doing the electrical has been a story in its own. Perhaps I will take the time to enlighten all those who want to tackle this type of work.
Well, that is enough for now. I leave you with a couple of pictures of the project with the last one the project as it looks today.
Scott
After I cut several of the trees down and saw how the forest responded by revealing much new growth not noticed when the old growth was overwhelming the view, I felt much better about the situation. And, from that point on, I looked at dead trees in a whole new light. I now look at a dead standing tree and assess its straightness, and thickness for the purpose of providing lumber for my many new projects. Oh, did I say a cabin? Well, yes, but, why not a new house for my wife Susan and me? And, how about a new shed, or a bedroom behind the existing house. The possibilities are endless when all you need do is cut down a tree and cut it into any sized lumber you want. No more going to the lumber yard to purchase over-priced wood for a project. Just cut your own to the dimensions you desire!
In the coming months.... years? I will write entries into this blog describing my trip down this path. I hope it will be of interest to others than my family getting a look-see at the progress. I know that when I started my search and research on the subject of Timber-frame building, I found a couple of sites doing this, and I found the info useful.
I will post pictures when possible showing the progress and, although I have high hopes, I know that when it comes to keeping these types of blogs current it is hard (I find myself very tired at night after a full day do this), I will try to keep the entries current as best as I can.
As I write this entry, the first big day of the project looms. Tomorrow, I will have an electrical inspection on the new service I installed to the cabin and to the old shop on the property. I have been working for several weeks now getting this done and finally I have my "final" exam. The whole process of doing the electrical has been a story in its own. Perhaps I will take the time to enlighten all those who want to tackle this type of work.
Well, that is enough for now. I leave you with a couple of pictures of the project with the last one the project as it looks today.
Scott
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Obama is leaving footsteps. This man is not good!!!!
I was talking to a friend today and he said that he was impressed with Obama. I was taken back! After I counted to 10 I asked him what he was impressed with.
Was it his pastor who spouts hateful America vile? Why did he not leave the church he heard these hateful statements?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36T1fnIafC0
Was it his refusal to say the pledge of America or hold his hand over his heart when the ledge was being said?
http://rawstory.com/news/2007/Obama_doesnt_put_hand_over_heart_1022.html
Was it his refusal to sport an American flag lapel on his breast? (same url as above)
Was it his wife stating that she was only now proud of America that her husband was running for president?
http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/02/19/michelle-obama-takes-heat-for-saying-shes-proud-of-my-country-for-the-first-time/
Was it his most liberal rating given to him from his votes in the Senate?
http://nj.nationaljournal.com/voteratings/
Nothing wrong with being liberal, but why has Obama insisted he is a centrist? Be proud Obama, of your liberal record!!!
This guy has no experience! He is just good at speaking FLUFF!
Was it his pastor who spouts hateful America vile? Why did he not leave the church he heard these hateful statements?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36T1fnIafC0
Was it his refusal to say the pledge of America or hold his hand over his heart when the ledge was being said?
http://rawstory.com/news/2007/Obama_doesnt_put_hand_over_heart_1022.html
Was it his refusal to sport an American flag lapel on his breast? (same url as above)
Was it his wife stating that she was only now proud of America that her husband was running for president?
http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/02/19/michelle-obama-takes-heat-for-saying-shes-proud-of-my-country-for-the-first-time/
Was it his most liberal rating given to him from his votes in the Senate?
http://nj.nationaljournal.com/voteratings/
Nothing wrong with being liberal, but why has Obama insisted he is a centrist? Be proud Obama, of your liberal record!!!
This guy has no experience! He is just good at speaking FLUFF!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Obama has all the right words!
Obama has all the right words again. If he becomes president, however, he will not be able to do it all himself. He will have to rely on those he chooses to surround himself. For me this is a very large problem as his track record is not good in this area. Just take a look at his closest advisers, his pastor and his wife. Both are unable to gloss over their anti-American, anti-White feelings. One has to wonder if Obama, himself, doesn't, deep down, feel the same way, but is just better at covering it up with flowery words.
This man is NOT what he appears to be! And I hope folks figure it out before we get to the election.
I thought I would never say this, but I would rather have Hillary as president than Obama! Thank goodness there is another choice come November. This guy is just scary. All style and NO substance! He is pure and simple a socialist at best, as shown by what little political history we have of him, and at worst, a Marxist.
The problem, as I see it, is that the general public, what I call the People Magazine culture, are incapable of seeing through his words with no meaning.
This man is NOT what he appears to be! And I hope folks figure it out before we get to the election.
I thought I would never say this, but I would rather have Hillary as president than Obama! Thank goodness there is another choice come November. This guy is just scary. All style and NO substance! He is pure and simple a socialist at best, as shown by what little political history we have of him, and at worst, a Marxist.
The problem, as I see it, is that the general public, what I call the People Magazine culture, are incapable of seeing through his words with no meaning.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
One reason why Colo is a great place to live.
We went to Moab for a week and again, I am reminded why living in Colorado is so special. Not only do we have our great state, we have states right next to us like Wyoming, Utah and New Mexico, all just a day's drive away. I can't imagine living anywhere else.
The Colorado River just outside of Potash:
Just outside of Moab on the North side of the Colorado River. Great climbing!
The Colorado River just outside of Potash:
Just outside of Moab on the North side of the Colorado River. Great climbing!
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