text:
Start: 21:03:57
vicky: Happy Juneteenth to all who enter!!
Selma: Good evening vicky
vicky: Selma! how's it going?
Selma: Going pretty good..took my grandson to the movies today to see Toy Story 3..it was good..he just passed out on the floor
vicky: lol I hear it was very good. I think we are going tomorrow he had a full day with granny I see lol
Selma: The older grandson went to see the move with Jaden Smith..title just escaped me..he said it was great Karate Kid
vicky: Thats karate Kid
Selma: The brain is slow.. LOL
vicky: lol I also liked the Ice Age movies
Selma: Yes, the grandson fell asleep on the floor watching that tonite on TV
vicky: I hated the Transformers
Selma: I am waiting for the Harry Potter film I get to see all of the kiddie movies with the grand kids.. LOL
vicky: lol me too but you know Sel, I really enjoy most of them
Selma: It was so hot today..it was nice and cool actually chilly in the movie theater I got to remember to take a sweater
vicky: thet got me watching Pheneas and Ferb now
Selma: I enjoy them too...
vicky: I saw on FB that Sadonya has a BD today
Selma: I will have to send her belated HB on Tuesday evening Evening alt
alt: Hello Selma & vicky
vicky: hello Alt! Happy 19th lol
alt: Looks like tiger's back.. he's -1
Selma: Oh I forgot he was playing...I have the grandkids
alt: same to you vicky
Selma: Is he leading?
alt: no, he's in 3rd came from 25th back
Selma: Happy 19th what?
alt: shot a 66
vicky: Juneteenth
Selma: OH jeez..better not let seventies know I missed that..LOL
vicky: lol lol lol
alt: I'm gonna tell LOL
Selma: LOL
vicky: good thing you can't scroll back lol lol
Selma: They use to celebrate Emancipation Day here in VA...I have seen that in some historical documents...not sure when the stopped. It was not in June
alt: 22 sep is EP day
Selma: Nope it wasn't September either...I will have to go dig it out
vicky: April
AYWalton: Good evening all.
Selma: Evening AY and VKN
vicky: hello AYWalton and vkn
Selma: Are you home yet AY?
AYWalton: Howdy alt, Ms. Selma, Ms. Vicky!! Greetings, VKN!!!!!!!!!!!!
vkn: hey hey hey and welcome home ayw
AYWalton: thanks so much, vkn!!! good to be home!
Selma: So Samford was GREAT
alt: they still have an EP Day celebration in Gallapolis, OH...
AYWalton: alt, Debbie Abbott is a riot!! Samford was very good!
vkn: Samford is intense
AYWalton: I really enjoyed it!
Selma: Didn't you go once vkn
AYWalton: It is, indeed.
alt: Welcome back AYWalton ... Yep, told you thatyou would enjoy Debbie
vkn: Yes selma
AYWalton: you were correct! she is a good soul. we had one good workshop after another. it was really a good experience. and I was most surprised to see so many folks that I knew who were on their 2nd, 3rd, or 4th trip to Samford.
alt: as I tell my wife AYWalton .... I ain't always right, but I'm never wrong LOL
AYWalton: lol
vkn: Selma there was no afriam track when I went
AYWalton: I can see why some come back---they want to get in on different parts. I might take the southern track one of these days. Plus I will go back in 2012.
vkn: fill us in ayw
AYWalton: I was blogging from it every day, and tweeting from it as well. www.myancestorsname.blogspot.com
vkn: Well with some of the high highlights
AYWalton: I covered it every day.
vicky: We sure enjoyed the tweets and the blog
Selma: How did your brick wall exercise turn out
alt: did I understand you to say there were over 50 AA's in attendance?
AYWalton: That was interesting-------we had a problem where a researcher--(I forgot her last name) wanted to find a lost ancestor, whom she never could find before 1900. We found him using the Kansas State Census of 1885 and 1865. Then we were able to locate him in the 1880 Federal census, and his wife in the 1880 census. she was using the wrong document to estimate his age, and we were able to prove that we had the right guy.
Selma: What had she been looking at
AYWalton: She had a marriage record of one of her ancestor's sons. On that certificate-----in 1918----it said that his father (the father of the groom and the missing ancestor) was 74 years old---- which put his birth year to be in the 1840s. BUT--------in the one census year in which she had found him-----it stated that he was born about 1859. We found him in the 1865 Kansas state census, and he was a 6 year old child. we were certain that he was the right child----but she was clinging to the older age----for no reason. I noted that he never signed that marriage record---nor did he put his X on it. he might not have even been around when it was completed----furthermore it was a document describing a marriage for a son. so reliance on that document as proof of age---was the LEAST reliable record that she could have used. we also found the woman he married living with her family while a child. another member of the team found the same ancestor in a city directory from Parsons Kansas. in the 1865 state census, the head of the household was a Robert Williams---(oh the ancestor we were searching was Elijah Williams) Robert was 60 with a young woman 35 years old and the young boy Elijah at the age of 6. She never knew any of his ancestors, so we don't know if Robert was a father, or grandfather. BUT----he was 60 and was possibly of age to be able to follow further. We suggested that she search for Robert in 1860 in Kansas, to see if he was a free man of color. We also suggested that she research him to see if there were any military records that might reveal more about Robert.
alt: wow.. 60 in 1865 ,,, born around 1805, huh?
AYWalton: AND we suggested that she follow up and research the history of the county to see when blacks entered that part of Kansas. but we did find her ancestor.
Selma: Did she concede that this was him....or is she still holding out
AYWalton: She had given a long description with data that did not help us before she finally got to her problem---which was to find him prior to 1900---which we did. and she did agree that we found him in 1880 and 1885---but still was trying to hold out about him being much older. I am writing up the final findings in a Power Point for her. and we believe that we have possibly found two ancestors beyond Elijah. I think though that she had to lighten up---because of one of the presentations.
Selma: Did it say what state Robert was from before Kansas?
AYWalton: He was born in Arkansas.
alt: her brick wall sound like an inability to go at the problem with an open mind..... ie the age thing.
AYWalton: She thought it was Van Buren Arkansas. I asked which Van Buren---because there are two.
Selma: Did you recommend that she look at any FB records for Arkansas
AYWalton: There is Van Buren the town (where a friend Tonia lives) and there is Van Buren county. We did not, only because they were in Kansas and Kansas was a non-slave state with no FB offices. And they were there in 1865.
Selma: Oh OK
AYWalton: I also suggested that Robert might have been in Arkansas before 1860. There was the 1859 Expulsion Law. All free Blacks had to leave the state by Jan 1 1860 or risk be sold. most left the state---some went into Missouri and others into Kansas.
Selma: Ahh.
AYWalton: Robert might have been part of the expulsion population. that was also a suggestion. Of course---she had to accept that Robert was in her line. she reluctantly began to accept that possibility---- but because of another reason. one of the presentations was done by Ari Wilkins. She studied a slave from the WPA. Fountain Hughes was one of the few slaves interviewed on tape. so she decided to follow his life and document it. He was said to have been 101 at the time of the interview, and he died at the age of 104. She followed his life, documenting the places where he lived, and she located the slave owner and also found papers reflecting that the slave owner did own him. there were two things that caught her attention. 1 was that----she asked if he was ever sold. He said no---he was too little to sell----and that he was of no value because he was so young and small when the war took place. noting that he himself said he was too small during the war----she kept trying to find something to prove his age. she located a tax record of the slave owner that documented his age. he was born about 1860 and so he would have been just a toddler when the war was going on. AND the interview was made in the 1940s. which made him in his 90s. In spite of all of the talk of him being over 100 years----here were documents created by those who would have known his age---and who KNEW when he was born. and he was in his 90s---a great old age to be, no question---BUT he was not 104 at the time of his death. We talked about the age issue. and how sometimes stories can get embellished when ages of elders are mentioned. so she did, after our lengthy discussion in another session, accept the possibility that her ancestor was not quite as old as she had thought. she had been looking for him in Civil War records hoping to find a USCT. I also made a final suggestion for her. on that 1865 state census---there were two close neighbors who were still in the Army. They were in the 1st Kansas Colored. This means that they were in the 79th USCT. well-----I suggested that she read the pension files of both of these two men. It was common for people in the community to give depositions, and to speak on behalf of the applicant for a pension. Especially if the witness was a man of stature in the community. I have no idea if Robert was a man of importance----but since they lived as close neighbors---reading their pension was critical---for neighbors also tell the stories of the community. that was a recurring theme in many of the sessions. Can't find your people? Then study the neighbors. So I will send a final analysis to her this coming week.
Selma: I really don't understand why people don't get that
AYWalton: well----many people only research with blinders----they are looking for grandpa---and ONLY grandpa.
vicky: I get it lol
AYWalton: the neighbors could hold the secret to more about grandpa.
alt: out of curiousity...... was there ever any discussion in the AA track on FPOC?
AYWalton: oh goodness yes! although the theme was slavery and reconstruction---there was lots of discussion about FPOCs. continually....
alt: okay Hello Infrid
AYWalton: Debbie Abbotts session on land records was about a free family of color.
vicky: hello Ingrid
AYWalton: it was great!
Selma: Evening Ingrid
AYWalton: All the way to how they got manumitted in the 1830s.
Ingrid_Doweary: Hey Alt, AY, Selma, Vicky and vkn What were some of the documents presented, AY?
AYWalton: Oh gosh TONS of things Ingrid. Tax records, land records, state census records, maps, and on and on.
Ingrid_Doweary: That's great.
AYWalton: Shamel Jordon gave a great presentation about a town in NJ---the only all Black incorporated town. she followed the town's history from the 1840s to the present.
alt: were there many non-AA's attending the AA track?
AYWalton: she studied the communities that developed around the two old churches---one an AME church. Some of the early inhabitants were FPCs, who were also Allenites, who established the first church.
Ingrid_Doweary: That is interesting, the community history.
AYWalton: and she also showed us some of her trick using Google Earth. how she plots a cemetery marking the headstones with her GPS and adding them to Google earth. it was amazing.
Ingrid_Doweary: Excellent. Allenites?
AYWalton: followers of Richard Allen, AME founder.
Ingrid_Doweary: Okay, that's what I thought.
AYWalton: a good discussion came up right there about some naming patterns in communities---when you see lots of John Wesley's, one might be around a Methodist community. Richard Allen Johnsons, and/or Richard Allen Smith, or Jones suggests a strong AME presence. trying to remember some of the other denominational names, but can't right now.
Ingrid_Doweary: Makes sense, John Wesley, United Methodist church founder?
AYWalton: Too tired. yes, Ingrid. we had great discussions. so all in all it was good.
vkn: WONDERFUL report and sharing ayw
AYWalton: Glad to. My head is still spinning, for sure.
alt: it is always great to be around a group of 'serious' genealogists...
Ingrid_Doweary: Sounds good. Thanks AY
AYWalton: But I hope to gather some of my notes and put some of the new ideas to use.
Ingrid_Doweary: Here,here, Alt.
AYWalton: And so many folks had been there 3 and 4 times! Selma I saw the twins---Nettie and Lettie were there. (for the 3rd time). But Betty did not make it.
Ingrid_Doweary: Were those the ladies from New York, AY?
AYWalton: Chicago. Dallas had a good crowd of folks.
alt: now.... did you find a 'good' Rib Joint? LOL
AYWalton: as did Chicago, Cleveland, & Indianapolis.
Ingrid_Doweary: Oh okay. got them confused with others.
AYWalton: Now that I did not do. didn't have time to.
alt: for shame
AYWalton: next time I will for sure.
Selma: How was Pinnicks presentation
AYWalton: which one?
Ingrid_Doweary: Are you enjoying yourself, Vicky?
AYWalton: he gave at least 3 plus he moderated a round table.
Selma: Oh wow......
AYWalton: I sat on the Round Table and gave a great commercial for AfriGeneas.
vkn: wow wow
alt: The round table, how did that turn out?
Ingrid_Doweary: He was busy.
AYWalton: that was pretty good. check the blog, I have photos. Several on the panel----Sharon Baptiste Gillins (she is great---from Galveston TX) She was also a presenter. Debbie Abbott, let me think who else.
alt: I saw you, Debbie, Shamele and the others I couldn't make out.
AYWalton: let me look at the blog....
alt: and of course Tim
AYWalton: oh----how could I forget---our friend Michael Hait.
Ingrid_Doweary: Hey Khathu
alt: He was on the 'panel'?
Khathu: Happy Juneteenth
alt: Hi Khathu
AYWalton: Yes, I was a bit surprised at that. howdy khathu!
Selma: Oh the expert
vicky: hi there Khathu!
AYWalton: did you make it to Juneteenth with PG AAHGS, khathu?
Khathu: I decided not to attend.
alt: well, the guy does know how to fill out a resume LOL
Selma: Evening Khathu
Selma: Are you thinking of going back next year? or waiting till 2012
Khathu: did he make any significant contribution while on the panel?
AYWalton: I think I would like to go next year to take the Southern course---but not sure. Or the land records course. He did mention that Luckie Daniels has a nice blog. I covered every day of the event on the blog, so if you have a chance take a look. www.myancestorsname.blogspot.com
Khathu: well folks i am on my way to being one of the first individuals to be a part of the Sons of the Republic of Texas through an enslaved ancestor
AYWalton: you go khathu!!! have you gotten the word?????
alt: wonderful!!!!!!!!!
Ingrid_Doweary: How is that, Khathu?
vicky: awesome!!!
AYWalton: did you get an acceptance letter?
Khathu: I needed to get three signatures and so far I have obtained two
Selma: Congrats to you Khahtu
alt: signatures?
AYWalton: What kind of signatures?
Khathu: they require that you obtain three signatures from members
AYWalton: Wow----where will you find the third one?
alt: your application is reviewed and then you need signatures?
Selma: and your documentation is checked..then you still need 3 signatures?
Khathu: to verify my good standing as a citizens and to review my application before it is submitted to headquarters
AYWalton: Wow----where will you find the third one?
Khathu: i should have obtained the third one today at the Dallas chapter meeting Mic Bennett is my "sponsor". He conducted a presentation on FPOC in the Republic of Texas today
AYWalton: where was this presentation?
Khathu: In Dallas, Texas
vkn: Congrats Khathu
alt: that's an interesting process Khathu .... usually your documentation when reviewed and approved is enough for most Lineage Societies that I know of.
AYWalton: that's great, khathu.
vicky: was it at the Dallas library Khathu
Ingrid_Doweary: That's great news, Khathu.
Khathu: alt - i guess you need to be sponsored by three members as part of the application
AYWalton: Oh here is the post about the Panel discussion: http://myancestorsname.blogspot.com/2010/06/studying-law-panel-discussion-and-case.html
alt: yes, you are to be commended for even 'making the move' Khathu
AYWalton: I must say a week long institute is something to do. it was intense but very good.
Khathu: usually it is three members from the chapter you are interested in joining my documentation was very solid even for GSP
vkn: So glad you went Angela
Selma: Will they have an induction ceremony Khathu?
Khathu: AYWalton - thanks for the daily blog postings
alt: oh I know it was from our discussions Khathu
Khathu: I am not sure Selma
AYWalton: it was my pleasure (it was also hard work to do that every day!!)
Khathu: I think I may be the first person to join through an enslaved ancestor i can imagine.... Selma they should have a ceremony for me
AYWalton: Khathu let us know when it is official!
alt: no doubt.. Are there any FPOC 'Sons of Texas"?
AYWalton: they should, indeed!
Khathu: Yes there are alt
Ingrid_Doweary: Sounds like a valuable breakthrough, Khathu.
Selma: I was gonna say that Khathu...yes they should and I think you should give a presentation
alt: okay
Khathu: i would fly down to Texas for the ceremony.....
Ingrid_Doweary: Look forward to hearing more progress on that, Khathu.
Selma: Gotta get them cowboy boots... LOL
Khathu: I will keep everyone posted.....
AYWalton: and a cowboy hat and those ties that look like ropes.
Khathu: Selma - I am already looking at a pair and a ten gallon hat with the bola tie
Selma: See I told you to get a hat..a couple of months ago and you said no.. LOL
AYWalton: but tip the hat to the side the way the brothers do in Dallas!
Khathu: lol
alt: http://tinyurl.com/23lust3 my FFO Certificate
AYWalton: I have considered applying to the First Families of the Twin Territories. Just have never sent it in.
Khathu: i will definitely post my certificate on my blog and tribalpages site
AYWalton: as you should, indeed! that is great!
Khathu: It took me over a year to finally submit my application and i had all of the documentation
AYWalton: Wow Art, I am checking out your lineage certificates!
Ingrid_Doweary: Hat's off to you, Khathu!
AYWalton: You and Skip Gates are more white than black, huh?
alt: go for it Khathu!!!!!
Ingrid_Doweary: You go, Alt!
alt: those are all Black folks AYWalton
AYWalton: no question, alt.
Khathu: Has anyone looked at the blog entitled Finding Josephine?
alt: Please, make sure you go to the induction ceremony Khathu!!!! show them it can be done and your folks were there too!!!!
AYWalton: Yes, I have seen it, Khathu.
Khathu: They are trying to get more AfriAms to join
AYWalton: I think it is Dionne Ford's blog. indeed you should go, khathu.
Khathu: the owner Dionne gave a shout out to AfriGeneas
Ingrid_Doweary: That reminds, the USCT descendants receive certificates of honor for their ancestor from the Afri-Am Civil War Freedom Memorial Foundation in person.
Khathu: http://dionneford.wordpress.com/
Ingrid_Doweary: Yea, Dionne Ford! :}
alt: Khathu, it ain't a matter of 'joining" it is about doing the work in getting the documentation that proves you 'belong"
AYWalton: Ingrid are they the same certificates that we got on the dedication day?
Khathu: she is very lucky....most of her finding has been due to other people locating documents for her
alt: My civil war certificate
vkn: go head alt
Selma: I think joining these groups allows you to say the NAMES of all these folks who were ignored and not seen as part of the history of these places
Ingrid_Doweary: You go ahead, Alt! :} :}
alt: http://tinyurl.com/2854fe4
AYWalton: well folks I had better turn in. Tired from a day of travel, and a week of work.
Selma: Art you must need a whole wall in your house..LOL
AYWalton: Have a great evening everyone!
alt: okay.. I'm thru this is for Ohio between 1821-1860
Selma: I gotta run too folks..see you all tomorrow.
vicky: proud of all of y'all
vkn: me too
Khathu: thanks vicky
Ingrid_Doweary: Me also,y'all! :}
alt: me too.. I'm especially happy for Khathu I know the work it took.. it ain't easy LOL
vicky: I think I will do some more scouring the internet. Have a great nite..and alt if I don't see ya tomorrow Happy Fathers Day
Khathu: I am proud that my research can stand on its own merit
alt: ty vicky
Ingrid_Doweary: That's the Spirit, Khathu. :}
alt: I'm outa here too laters y'all
vkn: okies
Ingrid_Doweary: Happy fathers day to you
alt: there you go Khathu !!!!!!!
Khathu: Good night every one.
Ingrid_Doweary: Good nite to you, Vkn
vkn: talk atcha 2morry ingrid
Ingrid_Doweary: Okies


text:
League championship basketball games postponed due to weather; hockey playoffs still on
Updated at 4:30 p.m. to include that Lincoln has now postponed its varsity basketball game against Tecumseh.
We'll have to wait another two days to find out if Pioneer and Huron can grab shares of the SEC Red boys basketball title.
Melanie Maxwell | AnnArbor.com
Bedford is currently one game up in the standings on both Huron and Pioneer. A Huron win will give the River Rats a share of the league title. Pioneer needs to beat Saline coupled with a Huron win for a share of the title. The Pioneers handed Bedford its only league loss of the season last Tuesday.
Bedford's Jackson Lamb scored 33 points and had 10 rebounds against Pioneer last week and Bedford beat Huron 75-65 when the teams played on Feb. 1.
As of Tuesday afternoon, only one of the seven boys basketball games involving Washtenaw County teams were scheduled to go on as scheduled: Greenhills' game at Arbor Preparatory Academy.
The Southeastern Conference has canceled all of its crossover games, originally scheduled for Thursday, and all of Tuesday's cancellations have been postponed to Thursday: Pioneer at Saline, Monroe at Skyline, Temperance Bedford at Huron, Ypsilanti at Chelsea Dexter at Adrian and Tecumseh at Lincoln.
Four pre-regional boys ice hockey games scheduled for Tuesday will go on as scheduled: Huron will take on Pioneer at 5 p.m. at the Ann Arbor Ice Cube, and Skyline vs. Carleton Airport will follow. Father Gabriel Richard will take on Chelsea at the Arctic Coliseum at 5 p.m., followed by Dexter vs. Jackson Lumen Christi
Tuesday's Schedule
Boys Basketball
Greenhills at Arbor Preparatory, 7 p.m.
Boys Ice Hockey
Dexter vs. Jackson Lumen Christi, 7:30 p.m.
Father Gabriel Richard vs. Chelsea, 5 p.m.
Huron vs. Pioneer, 5 p.m.
Skyline vs. Carleton Airport, 7:30 p.m.
Rescheduled to Thursday
Boys Basketball
Dexter at Adrian, 7 p.m.
Monroe at Skyline, 7 p.m.
Pioneer at Saline, 7 p.m.
Tecumseh at Lincoln, 7 p.m.
Temperance Bedford at Huron, 7 p.m.
Ypsilanti at Chelsea, 7 p.m.
Wed, Feb 27, 2013 : 5:11 p.m.
The crossover games are fun but easily expendable when the championships are on the line. Was this easy-to-cancel feature a part of the thought process when the series was created? Or is that giving the AD's too much credit?
Kyle Austin
Wed, Feb 27, 2013 : 7:45 p.m.
Yes, the scenario you described really would have been the only feasible one given the girls district schedule. Now, teams that want the additional Saturday game can still add it to the schedule -- Lincoln and Skyline finalized a game this morning -- and teams that don't want it can opt for the off day. Losing the crossovers isn't ideal, but I don't think it's a huge loss. The girls crossover I saw last week just didn't have the intensity that a league game or a district game does.
Wed, Feb 27, 2013 : 7:29 p.m.
*Should be 'I was thinking...'
Wed, Feb 27, 2013 : 7:28 p.m.
Kyle Yes it was potentially getting messy. With the girls districts on M-W-F I was think - as apparently you were - the best option would have been leaving that alone; move the boys Tues games to Thurs; and the boys Thurs games to Sat. Better still is the what they have done, so none of the boys teams enter their district play next week without a traditional week-end rest.
Kyle Austin
Wed, Feb 27, 2013 : 5:25 p.m.
I can't say for sure, but I know it didn't take long before the decision to scrap all crossovers was made. I'm glad this is the decision that was come to, instead of trying to cram championship games Thursday and crossovers Saturday to make a hectic week more hectic.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Next Episode of Rules of Engagement is
not planed. TV Show was canceled.
A comedy that follows two couples and a single guy as they navigate the jungles of dating, engagement and marriage.
Oliver Hudson(Adam Rhodes)
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Bianca Kajlich(Jennifer Morgan)
Patrick Warburton(Jeff Bingham)
David Spade(Russell Dunbar)
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Adhir Kalyan(Timmy Patel)
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text:
The next generation iPad may not be called iPad 3 but iPad HD instead. Gizmodo ran the rumor a few days ago, basing their report on product names from accessory makers. Now both VentureBeat and CNET claim their sources have told them iPad HD will be the official name.
We're already expecting a higher resolution screen and the HD suffix would no doubt be more marketable to the general public than either the number 3 or the term Retina. The question remains as to whether Apple will once again switch up their naming scheme to center around a single feature, as they did with the iPhone 3S.
Considering Apple is rumored to be doubling the resolution of the current iPad 2, to 2042x1536 it may make sense for them to market the heck out of an arguably retina display capable iPad. The general public understands what HD is and what it means, and it would highlight that the iPad will likely be the first tablet available to natively support 1080p at its full resolution. (Other 1080p+ tablets have been announced, but haven't yet shipped and likely won't ship before the next iPad hits store shelves.)
iMore hasn't heard anything about the name of the next iPad, be it iPad 3 or iPad HD. If Apple does go with iPad HD, however, what would the 4th generation iPad be called? iPad HD 2? iPad HDS? iPad 3?
The iPhone, as mentioned, went from iPhone to iPhone 3G to iPhone 3GS to iPhone 4 to the current iPhone 4S, and is following a pattern of "tick tock" releases -- major design changes followed by mostly internal updates. iPad went from iPad to iPad 2, so it's a bit early to look for patterns.
We'll find out Wednesday.
Source: Gizmodo, VentureBeat, CNET
This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosure policy for more details.


text:
With a large network of facilities and post offices, and yet mail volumes in decline, the U.S. Postal Service finds itself with a good deal of unused capacity. The dynamics over closing and consolidating facilities has raised the question of whether there are other uses for them. Further, the Postal Service could still own the facilities even after it closes or consolidates operations. Rather than sit empty, could the Postal Service use some of that capacity in non-traditional ways to generate additional revenue? One idea, if the law allowed, would be for the Postal Service to provide self-storage services at unused processing facilities. It could also provide safe-deposit boxes at under-used post offices. Self-storage allows users to rent storage space in the form of rooms, lockers or containers on a monthly or annual basis. Safety deposit boxes might be a miniaturized version of self-storage units, where the user could store especially valuable goods or papers in a secure and fire-safe box. These types of services would require little additional overhead or labor hours, although additional security personnel might be needed. Current law limits the Postal Service's ability to offer services that are considered non-postal and in the past, some industries have resisted Postal Service's efforts to enter into new business opportunities. However, as the Postal Service faces ongoing financial challenges and continued resistance to consolidation plans, is it time to consider new ways to use its infrastructure? Should the Postal Service be allowed to use its facilities to offer non-traditional services, like self-storage units and safety-deposit boxes? What offerings would you like to see? Do we need to rethink the infrastructure or simply allow the Postal Service to consolidate to match resources to workload?
Comments (18)
Kenneth CI would like to suggest the postal service create more PO Boxes to help pay the costs of maintaining the property. In addition, I would like to suggest they start an archive service where important, irreplaceable items be kept. Financials and identity docs should be kept at a bank, but photos, diplomas, and other life achievements should be kept at an archive. Like PO boxes, they can be rented long term so that no one will ever be faced with losing everything. More revenue for maintaining a postal service location.
AalokaYes, suggestions are required from you regarding the companies that provide self storage services in Lawnton. As someone told me that place is very much secure for self storage, and I also want to choose secured place to store my goods safely.
mike jonesI think that's a great idea!
Kenneth FordIs the unused capacit really a surprise with all of the new faiclities they building the last decadeof the 20th centure? Competition for shipping is steep in the civilian sector, and the Post office is poorly managed.
MikeHere are my suggestions for shuttered post offices: 1. Sell the property 2. Hourly storage lockers with changing rooms/areas - in some locations like NYC (if any are to close there) where "bridge and tunnel" visitors come for the day. They can store evening clothes. Or in resort towns for day trippers to store post beach clothes. 3. Rent space to community organizations for classes such as art, music, writing, professional development, etc.
georgeI strongly think they should close some bad facility like the bethpage NY .sorting . people there are goffing off. could not forward mail right.
Namehow do you expect mail handlers to deliver mail with 3 feet of snow in bridgeport ct..and clerks to get htere with roads closed,come on think for a minute..it's a no brainer.STAYED CLOSED!!!
Ben WetherillI am surprised to hear that postal facilities are underused. Whenever I go in them, the lines are long and they are crowded. But the main thing I want to suggest is that the USPS should consider becoming an e-mail provider to raise revenues. Since mail has largely transitioned to e-mail, it would be completely logical for the USPS to transition to e-mail also. I think there would be a large interest in e-mail through the USPS even if it was a paid service. I'm sure there are many people who would prefer to have a usps e-mail address instead of advertising Google or Hotmail every time they send a message. I would be one of the first to sign up. You could even set up the exact same payment strategy as snail-mail - no charge for an address and for mail receipt, but pay-per fees for sending mail and mail storage. Considering the profits that commercial e-mail providers make, e-mail definitely has the potential to save the USPS's finances.
Ed BrozowskiMy idea to help the USPS raise revenue is to allow people to purchase a money order from the post office and allow someone to pick up the money order at another postal facility. The convenience alone would be wonderful. There are many ways to send money so why couldn't the postal service jump on the bandwagon. The facilities are already there and they would definitely be able to take advantage of the interest that would be accrued between paying for the money order and the time it is picked up.
Jacques DickinsonYears ago I contacted the Post Master General's office to suggest offering a USPS Gift Card...perfect for anyone serving our nation over seas, school and college bound kids...families with members on fixed incomes and many, many more. At present, American Express cards are on display but that's who generates the income and the financial benefits. I couldn't break through the bureaucratic with either state representatives serving on postal committees but believe it is still a viable way for the USPS to glean a substantial surge in income relative to costs...why it hasn't been done is a mystery...
KIt is time to sell all surplus and underutilized properties. Too many facilities are leased for more than they are worth. Has everyone forgotten the cost of maintaining the buildings? Ie; Chicago? There would never be enough revenue to cover the cost involved.
Ginny RoberDoesn't USPS have a gargantuan unfunded liability? Sell off all surplus property. Then immediately use the proceeds to rationalize the balance sheet and get off the federal dole. Businesses that stray from their core mission rarely do well.
nickTemporary vacination centers, emergency centers for homeless, State Motor Vehicle express centers. Always open month of April for tax drop off. State and federal IRS help centers...ever wait in line at the DMV or IRS? How about for unemployment, social services? Basically they could be used for any local, state or federal government activity that requires citizens waiting in long lines (besides mail) which is legion in every state Im sure. Why not take advantage of this infrastructure even if only used for peak demand times of the year? Libraries could use them like they do book mobiles bringing books and computer services to underserved rural areas.
victorThis is futile. Gather resources to convert the current LLV fleet to electric. Re-structure the whole of propulsion and energy usage of the last mile delivery. Construct solar car ports for the vehicles, charging stations. The whole network will pay for itself in time. Stop house to house deliveries with the exception of the elderly and disabled.
P. JDGiven its ubiqiotous locations the Postal Service is in a prime position to become local certified testing centers. With the growing online education boom (see Thomas Friedman's 1/17/2012 NY Times piece) the biggest upcoming hurdle will be verification. There is no way to really know who is completing online tests when individuals are sitting at home. Sooner or later somone - or some agency - will need to see the person and witness the completion of some part of the program. These testing centers WILL come into existence, either by a private company (or psuedo-private company like ETS) or others. The Postal Service will need to move fast to seize this opportunity. Best of luck.
S.S.Stop house to house delivery?!!!! Are you kidding me do you realize how many people across America are employed by the USPS? All those jobs lost, ya that will really help the economy, What are u thinking??
@dryMAILmanThe excess space should be used, under the provisions of Sarbanes-Oxley, to incarcerate those claiming the USPS is practicing lean six sigma. The excess space should NOT be used to store my downsized casing equipment.
Klint DemetrioI like the idea for the safety deposit / self storage idea. And maybe even not just the 'traditional' self storage but perhaps an almost locker like system ( with some types of security) for say homeless people / hopefully paying for the service via funds or by themselves such as the 'working homeless' / who need small locker storage so they wouldn't have to be bring their precious personal papers and perhaps other smaller stuff like clothes and other personal belongings to work. Also perhaps an area doesn't have more shorter time period locker systems.. maybe a facility can compete for that. And if National Archives doesn't have room or another agency doesn't have time to complete National Archives storage requirements (which isn't that bad but still if for what ever reason maybe the stuff isn't worth officially archiving ) and needs some sort of extra space, they could rent a space at a USPS facility.


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chapcrap wrote:cairnswk wrote:chapcrap wrote:Nola_Lifer wrote:Hey, the border lines are thicker in some spots; i.e., S.E. Suburbs and Southern Highlands, while most of the others are thinner. Love how clean this map looks.
That whole statement sounds like an oxymoron.
chapcrap, i appreciate your post, but critisizing other's posts will only serve to deter them from posting, and there is little enough proactive posting done in the foundry these days. I would rather keep quiet than offer something that doesn't advance or encourage the map if i can't find domething decent to say.
Are you trying to discourage me from posting?
I was just saying that it doesn't make sense what he said. He says that the borders aren't that great and then calls the map clean. That's contradictory. It wasn't a personal attack.
I realise what you were saying. Why would i want to disourage you from posting when i have already stated there is not enough posting. But there is a line that gets crossed quite often. If you don't have anything pleasant to say instead of picking on the way someone posts, then...gees, i don't know, go throw those thoughts at another forum.
Why pick on someone's post...when none of us are perfect.


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This is somewhat of a travesty – but truly the way that trademark law works. Yesterday, June 21, 2010, Black Raven Brewing Co. lost a trademark battle over its "Black Raven Brewing Company" name and mark design. The story was first reported over at Seattle Beer News.
The challenge was brought by Franciscan Vineyards, who holds trademarks for wine and related products identified by the names "Ravenswood" "Ravens" and "Ragin' Raven." These names are associated with its Ravenswood Winery label that produces a large volume of wine in the United States.
There are a few things that really struck me about this case. The first is that this ruling comes at a time when Black Raven Brewing Co. is flying high, gaining every recognition in the brewing world, and putting a major dent in the Seattle craft brewing market. This is the same brewery who recently took home 3 medals at each the North American Beer Awards and the World Cup of Beer. They are on a roll.
But, after taking a look at the pleadings filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office's Trial and Appeal Board, I noticed that the challenge came up way back in January 2008.
Secondly, this was no easy challenge for Franciscan. They moved for summary judgment back in December 2008 and claimed that wine and beer were almost interchangeable, that the channels for sale were similar, and that the mark was confusingly similar. The court rejected this analysis, stating that Franciscan had failed to meet their burden of proof.
The Court proceeded to set the matter for trial. Several motions to strike were filed in 2009 that prompted a delay in the trial of the matter. But, the matter proceeded with briefing early this year; trial was held on the briefs and the decision issued this month.
Third, the Court refuses to sever the beer and wine industry. At times in its decision, its clear that the Court believes that they are virtually interchangeable. The Court provides:
Indeed, when the proper evidence has been made of record, the Board's precedential authority specifically holds beer and wine are related products….
In sum, the factors relating to the goods, namely the similarities between wine and beer, the identity in trade channels and prospective purchasers, and the conditions of sale weigh in favor of a finding of likelihood of confusion.
This appears to be the first time that the trademark court has had to decide on a similar mark between beer and wine. They did cite the findings of a case between beer and tequila and one pertaining to malt liquor and tequila. But, the Court did not appear to draw any inferences from a similar beer and wine showdown.
This is an important distinction. This country has a glut of wine and beer producers. Many have extremely similar names (i.e. Stone Cellars v. Stone Brewing; Fat Cat Beer v. Red Cat Wine; Sea Dog, Laughing Dog, Lazy Dog, Spotted Dog and whole mess of other dog breweries and wineries). This could open the floodgates for more challenges in between these two industries.
Fourth, the Court used a strip down technique to tear away what it perceived to be generic terms. The Court stripped off "brewing company" and focused its attention on "black raven" v. "ravens":
In the case of applicant's mark, BLACK RAVEN clearly dominates the BREWING COMPANY portion. The generic words BREWING COMPANY are disclaimed, and, although we have compared the marks in their entireties, these words play a subordinate role in the mark.
The most important discussion of the word "raven" was in looking to the dictionary definition, which provided that the addition of the word "black" was essentially superfluous, not differentiating the two terms:
The marks share the word RAVEN (the plural form in opposer's mark) and, thus, look and sound similar.
As for meaning, the term "raven" is defined, in pertinent part, as "a large, black, omnivorous and occasionally predatory bird; glossy black." The New Lexicon Webster's Dictionary of the English Language (1987).
Applicant's promotional materials show that its logo depicts a black bird, as does opposer's advertising materials. We find that RAVENS and BLACK RAVEN convey substantially similar, if not virtually identical meanings. Although the addition of BREWING COMPANY in applicant's mark informs prospective consumers that the entity is a brewery, the evidence indicates, as discussed above, that beer and wine may emanate from the same entity.
So, its a crushing blow for Black Raven Brewing Co., but they are not out of options. They are entitled to appeal this decision in the future.
Initial accounts from Beux Bowman, the owner of the brewery, are that the brewery is not going to relinquish use of the name. Who can blame them? The young brewery has sunk an incredible amount of time, money and effort into building up a successful and well-known business icon.
It is very possible that Franciscan will approach the brewery about a licensing arrangement, which would permit them to use the mark, for a price. This is a typical goal of the trademark opposition procedure.
Whatever, Black Raven decides to do, we hope they continue building an incredibly successful brewing operation here in Washington state. Hopefully, the mere fact that they were a part of this dispute only provides additional marketing opportunities.


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BandJam comes to Ridgefield
This weekend Ridgefield will play host to a battle of sorts when the Ridegefield Playhouse hosts Ridgefield BandJam 2013.
Beginning at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 28, eight of the best high school and middle school bands in the area will square off for an epic battle of rock and pop music domination. At the end of the day one high school band and one middle school band will be crowned BandJam winner.The finalists of the competition will be performing on Sunday. The middle school finalists are Apollo's Legacy, Element, Funky Neon and Marmalade Sky. The high school finalists are the Basement, Dead End, Infinity Project and MOTP with Cal Kehoe.
The BandJam was started as a charity event for the playhouse, but has since become a much-anticipated annual competition that gives middle school and high school musicians the chance to perform before a panel of industry professionals. This year the judges are:
Linda Eder, a celebrated Broadway performer and recording artist who has released 14 solo albums and made her Broadway debut as Lucy in "Jekyll and Hyde."
Paul Pesco, who has recorded and toured with Madonna, Steve Winwood, Chaka Kahn, Hall and Oates, Whitney Houston, George Benson and Mary J. Blige.
Steve Addabbo, a Grammy-nominated producer, musician, writer, arranger, recording engineer and studio owner.
Vaneese Thomas, a singer and songwriter who has worked with Aretha Franklin, Sting, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Celine Dion and Eric Clapton.
The master of ceremonies for the event will be Christine O'Leary, a comic who specializes in improv and comedy based on interactions with the audience.
The Ridgefield Playhouse is at 80 E. Ridge, Ridgefield. Tickets are $20 or $15 for students. Call 203-438-5795 or visit www.ridgefieldplayhouse.org, or www.ridgefieldbandjam.com.
Rockin' with Redgate
The Richter Association for the Arts will present "Golden Oldies" with John Redgate, a multitalented musician and songwriter, on Sunday, April 28, at 3 p.m. at the Richter House in Danbury.
Bridgeport native Redgate has been making music his whole life. His credits include a stint as Paul McCartney in "Beatlemania" and a long run as house pianist at Hollywood's Comedy Store.
Singing and telling stories from a musical journey that's taken him from Broadway to Tinseltown to Tokyo and back to Connecticut, Redgate performs on piano, guitar, ukulele and banjo. His upbeat program will include originals, plus hits from some musical legends of the '50s and '60s.
Refreshments and the opportunity to meet Redgate will follow the performance. Parking is available in the golf course parking lot ,with handicapped parking available in front of Richter House.
The Richter House is at 100 Aunt Hack Road, Danbury. Admission is by free-will donation. 203-744-1527, www.danbury.org/richter.
Four Seasons of Spector
Broadway star Jarrod Spector has logged more than 100 performances as Frankie Valli in the hit musical "Jersey Boys" and on Friday, April 26, at 8 p.m. he'll be performing at the Ridgefield Playhouse.
During the show, Spector will share songs and tell stories about his life and perform covers that range from the Jackson 5 to Led Zeppelin.
Tickets are $45. 203-438-5795, www.ridgefieldplayhouse.org.
Keller Williams show
One-man jam band sensation Keller Williams will perform at the Ridgefield Playhouse on Thursday, May 2, at 8 p.m.
Williams is a favorite on the jam-band circuit for his energetic one-man shows that feature intricate guitar work. When he performs as a one-man band, he sings his compositions and cover songs accompanied by an acoustic guitar connected to a delay and loop system that allows him to simulate a full band.
Tickets are $37.50. 203-438-5795, www.ridgefieldplayhouse.org.
O'Leary Band blues
On Friday, April 26, at 8:30 p.m., the Chris O'Leary Band will perform at the Towne Crier Cafe in Pawling, N.Y.
The band's music is rooted in the blues but you can hear shades of New Orleans, rockabilly and more in the group's big, high-energy sound. The late Levon Helm used to regularly sit in with earlier incarnations of the band. In addition to O'Leary, the band features Frankie Ingrao on bass, guitarist Chris Vitarello and drummer Sean McCarthy.
The Towne Crier Cafe is at 130 Route 22. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. 845-855-1300, www.townecrier.com.
Tom Chapin time
On Saturday, April 27, at 7:30 p.m. singer-songwriter Tom Chapin will perform at the Towne Crier.
Chapin's career already spans five decades and includes 23 albums and three Grammys. In addition to his work as a recording artist and concert performer, he has acted on Broadway, as well as television, radio and films.
As a music maker, Chapin has maintained two long and productive parallel careers, both as a respected contemporary folk artist and as a pioneer in the field of children's music.
In the former role, Chapin has established a reputation for insightful, heartfelt songs and charismatic live performances. In the latter, he continues to engage the hearts, minds and imaginations of young listeners with witty, life-affirming original songs delivered in a sophisticated array of musical styles.
Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. 845-855-1300, www.townecrier.com
Want your show to be considered for Backstage Pass? Are you a local artist who wants to be profiled? Send an email with all pertinent information about the band and the gig to Erik Ofgang at least two weeks before the show. Send it to firstname.lastname@example.com for consideration.


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This blogger at the Utne Reader implies so.
Great. That's all we need. We're already screening for Domestic Violence, Depression, Fall risk, various and sundry immunizations, alcohol abuse and Jeebus-knows-what-else. Why not add one more critical social issue to the laundry list? The ER can be the one-stop shop for all epidemiologic screening! We'll do your cholesterol, your PSAs, your PAP smears, and colonoscopies on Tuesdays!
Don't come in for anything frivolous, though, like chest pain or a motor vehicle accident, because the primary and secondary surveys will have to wait until the triage nurse asks you if you have "ever felt unsafe or threatened in any of your personal relationships." Seriously, they have to ask everybody these questions. I always feel bad listening to the nurses as they have to go through the litany of screening questions which are completely unrelated to the serious issue which brought the patient to the ER.
So why not add HIV to the list?
The biggest reason, IMHO, is that it's not germane to our practice, and not relevant to the patient's presenting complaint (in 99% of cases). Furthermore, it would bog us down and worsen the delays in the waiting rooms as we complete the screenings. If a patient comes in for an ankle sprain or some such, they need to get blood drawn for an HIV test? That's gonna take 10-30 extra minutes (depending on phlebotomy's availability), not counting the detailed consents which most institutions perform before HIV testing. Then what's the turnaround time for the test to run? 30-60 minutes at best, I suspect (factoring in the sample transport time and lab processing time). This would be a minimal issue for patients with six-hour abdominal pain work-ups, but the large number of patients with simple or quick complaints would be slowed down. And the docs, already overburdened with a thousand other tasks and interruptions, would have the responsibility to counsel each and every patient on the meaning of their test (negative or positive), and that counseling is sure to provoke a conversation that eats into the time I have available for the rest of my patients.
This is not even considering the liability. If a test is misreported by the lab, or simply missed by the physician, or if the patient leaves prior to the result being communicated to them, this creates a terrible burden on the providers. And if a test is positive, and the patient does not get adequate counseling or follow-up, whose responsibility is that?
No, routine HIV screening should not be performed in the ER. It's not our job, we're too busy, and we don't want the extra liability. And I kinda wish that society and the government would stop pretending that the ER is the only (and universal) point of contact that Americans have with the health care system.
01 December 2008
Should ERs screen for HIV?
This blogger at the Utne Reader implies so.
Posted by shadowfax at 9:38 AM
19 comments:
100% agreeReplyDelete
only trained staff called "HIV counselors" can discuss testing with patients, and at most hospitals, like mine, there are not that many, so it is a major hassle to find someone who can come up and do the counseling before testing.
and if it comes back + what then? Aids is expensive, HIV is expensive, a lot of ER visitors are uninsured, underinsured, what have you, it just opens up a lot of liability and pointless drama
you are right on on this issueReplyDelete
My new favorite screening question is "have you had unplanned weight loss of greater than 10 pounds in the last 3 months?" Also, "do you have any learning disabilities?" I love asking VIPs that one.ReplyDelete
People that come in specifically asking for an HIV test get referred to the Dept of Health or their PCP.
"People that come in specifically asking for an HIV test get referred to the Dept of Health or their PCP."ReplyDelete
As it should be!
- Gingerale12/01/2008 2:31 PM
I think there would be some people who don't become patients, because they refuse to go to the ER, because they don't want an HIV test.ReplyDelete
We have all patients asked at triage if they want a free HIV test. A small number say yes. This then flags the patients for the HIV counselor for the hospital, who's around M-F 10-6, who talks with the patient, gets the simple, one page consent form signed, and then either takes a buccal swab or a finger stick, and comes back in 15 minutes with the results.ReplyDelete
If the counselor is not there and the patient wants the test, we explain it's a blood draw and will take an hour for the rapid test to be run up in the lab. I usually estimate how long I think the patient will be in the ED, and if it's at least an hour, they usually agree. If the results are negative, we tell them. If they're positive, there are pre-made packets we give to the patients.
Yes, the HIV counselor is certainly a resource, but he/she staffs HIV counseling for the entire hospital, so the cost is spread amongst all the departments (and I think is actually probably paid for through a grant).
1/3 of HIV positive people in the US don't know they're positive. And for most of the chief complaints you see in the ED, I bet knowing the patient has HIV would likely change your workup/management.
Here is the post I wrote a different proposed changes in the duties of triage nurses. This one is a Screening and Brief Intervention for alcohol use.ReplyDelete
Drinking Problem? Try SBI.
- MBPharmD12/02/2008 5:34 AM
Good timing. We're finally getting out HIV testing rolled out in Labor & Delivery here. An interesting tidbit:ReplyDelete
Most hospitals use the HIV Quick test for screening. It has a 1hr turn-around time, can be run by a single lab tech and doesn't have to be batched (all untrue with the ELISA test). The problem is that there's a 0.4% false positive rate. Multiply that by your number of ED visits/yr and you're looking at 160 false positives if you have 40,000 tests/yr. Yeah, sure, the confirmatory western blot will be negative - in 7 days. Meanwhile you've just changed their lives by telling them they "might" or "could" be HIV+. No thanks. This is going to be messy for us, with our pregnant patients, "oh by the way you might have HIV, what's your baby's name going to be?"
I have struggled with this concept ever since the CDC came out with recommendations that HIV testing be incorporated in all acute-care settings. I share those concerns mentioned regarding access to counseling and delays in testing results.ReplyDelete
I also wonder if I would ever be able to properly consent a patient for HIV testing. Current CDC recommendations are for opt-out consenting (you get tested unless you specifically decline) and incorporation of the consent "into the general consent for medical care; separate written consent is not recommended."
[ Especially regarding the ED, are there any other lab/micro tests that a physician choses to perform that require specific consent? In my limited knowledge, most are covered under general consent for care. ]
HIV obviously has a pretty significant impact after a pt is discharge from the ED. For one, will a pt ever be able to get insurance again after a positive HIV? How can I consent a patient for a potentially life-altering lab test if they came in with a broken finger? (At least if I find out they're smoking, I can offer cessation assistance!)
MBPharmD said: This is going to be messy for us, with our pregnant patients, "oh by the way you might have HIV, what's your baby's name going to be?"ReplyDelete
Yes, but isn't it particularly important to determine whether a pregnant woman is HIV+, because there are ways to reduce the incidence of transmission to the baby if this is known beforehand?
- MBPharmD12/03/2008 7:50 AM
@ Marcia:ReplyDelete
Absolutely. But if we test all 9k of our deliveries, how many unknown HIV patients will we find? Not a lot in this area, in fact, based on the statistics we have we are expecting 1 genuine case plus 20-40 false positives/yr. A NNT of 20 ain't so bad, except for the psychological damage inflicted.
"Should ERs screen for HIV?"ReplyDelete
Of course not. That would be ridiculous.
"OMG, you have an emergent case of HIV! We'd better refer you to the ID specialist STAT!"
I totally agree, too.ReplyDelete
And I concur that asking emergency room personnel and doctors to also take care of things that should be the responsibilities of primary care doctors and healthcare providers is an unfortunate side effect, if you will, of having so many people forced to use the ER because they can't afford primary care and well care, so they go where they know they cannot, by law, be turned away.
The irony that so many anti-healthcare-reform/anti-single-payer people are missing is that the cost for "indigent care" (as it's called in FL) by the ER can't, of course, be absorbed by hospitals, so it's passed on to paying patients via expensive charges to their insurance companies, which is in turn passed on to them via ever-increasing premiums. It's socialized medicine, alright: the very priciest, utterly ill-regulated, and least cost-effective socialized medicine in the world. Yay us!
(I meant that I agree with you, Dr. SF, that HIV testing falls under the purview of primary care. Also, with regard to how one would manage a patient if one suddenly found out he was HIV+, don't all hospital personnel wear protective clothing--i.e. latex gloves, eyewear, etc.--and use biohazard containers for used syringes anyway? In other words, they wisely assume there's always a chance of being infected by something, and protect themselves and their patients accordingly?)ReplyDelete
- gingerale12/15/2008 4:33 PM
SF, the following link may seem unrelated to your post. But I had to pick some post of yours in order to share the link. The conceptual connection is "decisions made way way up the line from us with ramifications over which we have little or no control."ReplyDelete
The link:
How you-all do it I do not know.
Gingerale -- thanks. You can always email me at the address on the front page.ReplyDelete
ER - Emergency Response??? The keyword here is "emergency". The doctors should not check fully a patient's health, they must remove ailments that their patients have at the moment.ReplyDelete
Hello my Name isReplyDelete
hope I want to thank dr olufa for help me since 20013 I have bin having hiv it was confirm by my doctor that I'm hiv positive. So one day as I was browsing through the internet I saw a testimony how this grate man Dr olufa. And I contact him and he told me not to worry that he will help me that I should give him time to prepare the herbal medicine after two days he send it to me, after i take in 7days he call Me to go for test up and I go for the test and I was now hiv negative I'm very happy now that I'm hiv negative,, thank you dr olufa for helping me,if you need help email he email@example.com
CHRISTMAS LOANS!!!ReplyDelete
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Log In to Win a Yves Saint Laurent Black Patent Tribute Bag!
We saved the best for last. We know how much you love our handbag giveaways, so we had to do something really special to finish off a great year at FabSugar. You saw a similar bag in my December Most Wanted list, and now this Yves Saint Laurent Black Patent Tribute ($795) can be yours! Here's me modeling the perfect hobo — sleek and sophisticated YSL. Ooh la la!
What I really want to know is: How much do you know about Fab in 2007?! Your eligibility is not based on getting the answers correct, just simply on taking the quiz once you are logged in. You do however, need to be a TeamSugar member to take the quiz. So if you're not already a member, register here for an account and to join in all the fun on the Sugar sites! One quiz entry per person; all repeat quizzes will be ignored. Remember: YOU MUST BE LOGGED IN TO TEAMSUGAR FOR YOUR VOTE TO COUNT.
Just click on "take the quiz" below and I will do a random drawing on Friday, Dec. 14, at 5 p.m. PST. Don't forget to email this to friends and family who may be interested in winning their own Yves Saint Laurent bag. U.S. residents eligible only (sorry!). Click here for the Official Rules.
Log In to Win a Yves Saint Laurent Black Patent Tribute Bag!
How many fashion weeks did Fab attend this year?


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Be sure you are pregnant
Don't get caught worrying about being pregnant before you are sure. A missed period is the most common indication, but it doesn't necessarily mean you are pregnant.
Common symptoms include:
- Late period
- Tender or swollen breasts
- Frequent urination
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Backaches
- Food cravings or aversions
- Darkening of the nipples
Are you having some of these symptoms?
The Women's Clinic of Atlanta's medical staff can provide you with free lab-certified pregnancy testing. You will have the test results during your appointment.
Commonly Asked Questions
How accurate is the testing?
Our testing is laboratory rated. It can detect the hCG pregnancy hormone as early as the day before your first missed period. The testing is more than 99.9% accurate.
Can I have a retest if my testing is negative and my period doesn't start?
Yes, you may be rescheduled for repeat testing. The hCG hormone doubles every 2.2 days during the first three months of pregnancy.
Should I see a doctor if I have a second negative test and have not started my period?
If you have concerns about missed periods and your pregnancy testing continues to be negative, you should see your health care provider for assessment.
What/Who do I need to bring to my appointment?
All we ask is that you bring a valid photo ID. Friends and/or family will be asked to wait in the lobby until after your testing for your privacy and the privacy of the other patients. They may join you, if you wish, after the testing is run and you are given the results, then we will be happy to answer any questions they may have and speak with them about your options.
Pregnant {zip822johns}


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DETROIT -- Prabhakar Patil is an officer in the army of automotive engineers working to make fuel-efficient vehicles that people actually want to buy.
Patil, the former head of the hybrid-vehicle program at Ford Motor Co., knows by heart the gloomy statistics on global warming - the billions of tons of carbon dioxide accumulating in the atmosphere, the rise in temperatures.
Now, as he leads a small company in suburban Detroit that is pursuing a better battery for hybrid cars, he sees the need for urgency to stop the growth of greenhouse gases.
"If these things get nonlinear," he says - in an engineer's way of describing a problem that worsens rapidly because of new realities created by the problem itself - "the time scale that will be imposed on us would be such that we will not be able to respond fast enough."
Patil, 56, is CEO of Compact Power Inc., a 17-person unit of Korean battery maker LG Chem. He's trying to develop a lithium ion battery that will offer good range, weight and cost for plug-in hybrid vehicles, whose power source could be both the electric grid and a small internal combustion engine or fuel cell.
Patil left Ford in October 2005 to take on the challenge.
Began hybrid program
In 1998, Ford CEO Alex Trotman tapped Patil to start a hybrid program. It wasn't a humanitarian response to global warming. Toyota Motor Corp. had just announced an impending hybrid, and "part of it was strictly competitiveness," Patil recalls.
Nonetheless, says Patil, global warming "is something we have been looking at at Ford for about 15 or 20 years. I think it was sort of a gradual change in perception as data started to become more and more convincing.
"There is still some uncertainty in the data (about global warming), but the implications are severe enough that we can't afford to wait for perfection."
Like others in the auto industry working on fuel economy, Patil has several motivations: concerns about the price and supply of oil, unstable Mideast politics, global warming.
Then there's the kicker that underlies everything auto companies do: Will customers buy it?
For Ford's hybrid team, "The real push was that, for the first time, there was a solution that the customers could relate to," Patil says.
Should regulations be ramped up to require higher fuel mileage from vehicles?
"The regulations have to be done in a way that doesn't distort the marketplace but allows the market forces to align with fuel reduction," Patil says. If they don't align, then technology improvements will go where the customer wants to go.
Cheap fuel, same rules
This explains the lack of fuel economy improvements in the past 20 years. Fuel remained cheap and regulations didn't tighten. Consumers chose vehicles that were faster and more capable, but not more economical.
The challenges of fuel economy and greenhouse-gas emissions are made all the more difficult by the growth of developing markets.
Patil is from India and returns every year to see his parents. In December he took his wife and two grown sons for the first time in some years.
"A remarkable thing I saw this time was my family," he says. "They said, 'Oh, all of the cars are new!' Most of the cars are less than four years old."
Because of the burgeoning vehicle population, "the CO2 would grow no matter what we are doing in terms of improving individual vehicles," he says.
But he remains optimistic that society can reduce greenhouse-gas emissions and deal with global warming.
"There are means to address it," he says. "And the means is not to say to certain countries, 'Well, you can't have that.' We still have time to deal with it."
You may e-mail Peter Brown at [email protected]


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Nobody told eighth-grader Cassidy Williams that computer programming isn't for girls. Williams overheard a schoolmate talking about the website he was making, and decided she wanted one, too. So she built one.
That was seven years ago. Chicago native Williams still remembers combing the Internet for free help in using computer programming languages — a skill called coding. With persistence, she picked up a bit of HTML, a smattering of CSS and a smidge of Javascript. She was on her way.
Like a tourist who arrives in Paris barely able to say "Bonjour," Williams expanded her coding vocabulary by surmounting new challenges. Before long, she could flow graphic elements and text on the colorful, "silly" Web pages she cobbled together. A photo gallery came next, and a chat room followed. When Williams invited her schoolgirl chums to the site, a lively social community blossomed within her creation.
"This was before Facebook, and they were all embracing it just as much as I was," Williams recalls. At the time, no one mentioned the words "geek" or "nerd." No one told her that girls don't code. That would come later.
Few girls and women learn computer programming skills in the United States, and the number who do is falling. In 1990-91, 29 percent of all undergraduate computer and information science bachelor's degrees went to women, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Now, only 18 percent do. A growing band of experts say those numbers must change — not only to give women better opportunities, but to strengthen the U.S. economy. By 2020, there will be 1.4 million open jobs in fields related to computing, and at current U.S. graduation rates for computer science degrees, two-thirds will go unfilled by Americans.
"There are a lot of unfilled technology jobs that have to be outsourced because we don't have people with the right skills," said Ruthe Farmer, the National Center for Women and Information Technology's director of strategic initiatives. "There is a talent shortage."
Computer-related careers are a great option for women who need to balance work and family, experts say. Jobs are plentiful, and entry-level salaries range around $80,000-$100,000. Some technology jobs have flexible schedules. And many computer programmers work online from their homes.
Where are the girls?
Researchers who look at causes for the declining percentage of women in technology fields cite difficulties of breaking into an increasingly male-dominated world, lack of positive role models in media, and societal messages that cast computer programming as a masculine pursuit.
"Girls aren't getting the same kind of encouragement as boys are getting," Farmer said. "We think it's the same, but it really isn't."
Girls receive too little exposure to what computer scientists really do, and they lack positive female role models in computing fields, she added. Stereotypes about nerdy women in technology fields abound. Social isolation in male-dominated classes and careers is a problem, too. To many girls, breaking into computer-related careers seems almost like storming a clubhouse with "Girls Keep Out" scrawled on the door.
Cassidy Williams confronted that reality when she showed up for the first day of Advanced Placement Computer Science as a high school junior and found herself surrounded by boys. And, outside class, a chorus of discouraging comments arose.
"People would say things like 'girls don't go into that,' or 'that doesn't sound very fun,' " Williams remembers. "But it is fun," she would reply. "Have you seen the websites I've made?"
The gender imbalance persisted during her studies at Iowa State University, where Williams will receive a bachelor's degree this spring. Her graduating class of 60 computer scientists includes only four women. There are reasons why this happens, said Farmer.
From an early age, girls receive subtle messages about what they are supposed to like and who they should be, as anyone who has walked through the aisles of a toy store knows. Disney princesses and Barbie dolls dominate aisles meant for girls. Toys that build scientific skills — like robots, building sets and automated vehicles — are made in masculine colors, mostly, and are usually found in aisles obviously meant for boys.
As children get older, boys get more encouragement in junior and high school to join computer science classes and clubs, Farmer said.
"Because there are not many girls in computer science classes, you feel like you don't belong if you don't do as well as male peers," Williams said. Her recent college experiences taught her that girls are too quickly discouraged by getting lower grades than male peers with earlier background in computing. It's not necessary to get perfect grades, she counsels young women starting a major in computer science. If you just get the degree, you will get a job, she tells them. It worked for her.
Williams speaks with a natural air of self-assurance. Perhaps it is her confidence, plus hard-earned skills and persistence, that helped her to persevere. The rewards begin soon. Williams has already accepted one of several job offers. All came in at six-figure salaries.
The money will be nice, but Williams is even more pleased about what she will be doing for Venmo, a New York-based technology firm. Part of her job will involve creative code-writing to make Venmo's iPhone-based payment apps more appealing and user-friendly. The rest of the time she'll work under an increasingly common job title. As a "developer evangelist," Williams will attend and speak at conferences, hack-a-thons and programming competitions to get the word out about her company's products. Her new job isn't boring, bucking a common stereotype about a computer-related careers.
A woman's viewpoint
Though women prefer jobs that employ creativity in ways that improve lives, they tend to overlook technology careers, said Reshma Saujani, founder of the nonprofit advocacy group Girls Who Code.
"It's a very fulfilling career," Saujani said. "Think about Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. These tools have changed the world."
The computer-based tools so prevalent in modern life might be even more useful if more women took part in developing them, said Utah Valley University computer science professor Kirk Love, who studies gender issues in his field. Because men dominate computer fields, the games, apps and other products they develop often have greater appeal for men than women.
However, in recent years women have begun to dominate social media applications. A report from the Pew Research Center's Internet and American Life Project from September found that from 2008 to 2013, the percentage of women using social media outranked the percentage of men doing so by 8 percent.
"We've got half the population out there that has a whole different world view," Love said. "Why not get them involved in creating products?"
Texan Roya Edalatpour, 19, wants to be on the vanguard in making the digital universe more welcoming to women. Programming computers is a key part of her electrical engineering major at the University of Texas/El Paso, where she is a sophomore.
"Women bring a totally new perspective to the computing field, and diversify the technology we put out there," Edalatpour said.
Coding is creative
National test results show that elementary and secondary school girls outperform boys in writing and verbal tasks. Love said females might have natural advantages over their male peers when it comes to computer coding, a process he compares to writing a book.
"You need grammar, an outline, organization and the ability to break things down into individual components," he said. "You could argue that creating software is more female-oriented than male."
However, the field has become so male-dominated that typical computing classes feature male instructors teaching male students, Love said. Women have a hard time relating. It's a particular shame because many computing jobs have particular advantages for women, he added.
Love often speaks to groups of high school girls about computing careers and their rewards. Many of his listeners tell him they want careers that appeal to them, and don't care about financial rewards.
"You should," he tells them. "The biggest [demographic] group of people living in poverty is young mothers. It would be very nice to be working at home and making $50 or $100 per hour — and be there when the kids come home."
Besides full-time job opportunities, computer coding skills lend themselves to home-based creation of new products, and creating an app, website or game can produce an ongoing flow of cash, he said.
"You create something once, and sell it over and over again," Love said.
That creative aspect of computing is the first thing that captured Cassidy Williams' interest.
"The thing I loved is that it combined logic and creativity," she said. "I think girls can be better than guys when you talk about the creative side of things."
Family friendly careers
Media portrayals that depict people in computing job as "geeks" — usually male — color young girls' perceptions of such careers, said Catherine Ashcraft, a senior research scientist at the National Center for Women and Information Technology.
On-screen men are much more likely than on-screen women to be depicted in computer science and engineering career fields, according to a study by the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in the Media. Fewer than one in five screen characters depicted in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers is female, the study said.
The field of forensic science is one exception. Women in lab coats using chemistry and computing skills to solve crime on shows like "Bones" and "CSI" are credited for an upswing in the number of women majoring in forensic science — a phenomenon media outlets have dubbed the "CSI effect." Would it make a difference if television shows had more heroines who were computer hackers? Edalatpour thinks so.
"We need to change the stereotype that computing is for nerdy, white males," said Edalatpour.
Doing so could give women good career options that dovetail with traditional values, said Love. A booming job market means it's possible to drop into and out of the career, depending on family needs. And some technology jobs have flexible hours, or can be based in homes.
Several national groups are working to engage young girls in computing activities and change cultural perceptions. Girls Who Code, Saujani's group, offers summer camps that teach high school girls to build websites and mobile apps using several coding languages. The group is only two years old, but so far, all seniors who attended the camps went on to major or minor in computing fields at college. Girls Who Code is launching clubs in schools, community centers and libraries across the nation.
The National Center for Women and Information Technology sponsors camps, clubs and after-school clubs designed to interest middle-school girls in robotics, computing and technology. Like Girls Who Code, the group offers scholarships and awards to increase female participation in technology careers. Williams and Edalatpour are both recipients.
Farmer, who directs these outreach programs, is clear about why they matter: "I want women and girls to have high-paying jobs that give them financial independence, and those jobs are in technology. There is no reason why girls should not be in technology jobs if they want to be there. We are working hard to create an environment that they want to be in and can thrive in."
Email: [email protected] Twitter: @celiarbaker


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Building Expansion/Change of Use – Residential
Getting Started
Your building expansion and/or change of use project in a residential district will require the submittal of a Building Permit Application. Depending on the scope of work and zoning district of your property your project may be approvable over-the-counter (OTC), or it may require Neighborhood Notification and several accompanying Pre-Application steps.
Most often, changes of use in residential districts refers to an addition or removal of dwelling units. The removal of dwelling units follows some additional procedures and is discussed separately on our Removal of Dwelling Units page.
Read the FAQ.
Depending on the scope of your project, you may also want to review the information for changing the use of buildings other than dwellings, such as Child Care or Religious Facilities. There are also instances of "Legal Non-Conforming Commercial Uses" in residential districts (i.e. corner stores in residential districts) which follow distinct procedures and are discussed on the Limited/Non-Conforming Use – Residential (ex. Corner Stores) page.
It is recommended to visit or call Planning staff at the Planning Information Center (PIC) early in the planning of your project. The PIC is at 1660 Mission Street, 1st floor and may also be reached by phone at (415) 558-6377 or via email at email@example.com.
We also recommend you contact the Department of Building Inspection (DBI) to confirm their requirements before submitting your Building Permit Application. They can be reached at (415) 558-6088, or at 1660 Mission Street 1st floor Public Information Counter.
Understanding What's Allowed
Residential building expansion or change of use is regulated by the San Francisco Planning Code. To maintain the character and purpose of distinct areas in San Francisco, the City's geography has been divided into distinct zoning use districts (view these zoning use districts on the San Francisco Zoning Map and Section 201 of the Planning Code). For each activity or use of land in any given zoning district, the Code states if that activity or use is either: Permitted; Conditional; or Not Permitted. Therefore knowing the zoning district of your property will help you identify what specific limits may apply to your project and which application materials you will need to submit.
You can find the zoning use district and height limits of your property on the Find My Zoning page, or directly from our San Francisco Property Information Map by entering your address or Assessor's Lot and Block number and click the "Zoning" tab. Once you know the zoning use district of your property, you can reference our useful handout, "Summarizing San Francisco's Residential Zoning District Controls" which summarizes regulations and Code controls for projects in residential districts.
Other Things To Consider
In addition to the zoning district and land use regulations in the San Francisco Planning Code, your application will also be reviewed under provisions in all of San Francisco's Municipal Codes, the San Francisco General Plan, and Department policies based on a number of criteria (e.g. the historical significance of your property, the environmental impact of your project, or other regulations).
Here are the most common regulations you will need to consider:
- Pre-Application Process & Neighborhood Notification requirements
Most building expansion and/or change of use projects require Neighborhood Notification (with a few exceptions, see below), a process where the Planning Department mails a notice alerting neighbors and neighborhood groups in the vicinity of your proposed project and they are given a period of 30 days to respond with concerns or to request a Discretionary Review (DR). Depending on the scope of your project, you may also need to provide a "Pre-Application Notice" to nearby neighbors, and/or you may need to hold a "Pre-Application Meeting." The triggers for the Pre-Application Process are explained in the Pre-Application Information Packet.
- Expansions or change of use in residential Commercial (RC) zoning districts do not require Neighborhood Notification and may be approvable over-the-counter (OTC). Follow the instructions above for how to find the zoning use district of your property to find out what requirements apply to your project.
- Additionally, there are some minor expansions within Residential districts otherwise subject to notice where Neighborhood Notification is not required, see Zoning Administrator Bulletin 4 regarding notification for minor expansion Building Permits.
- Yard and setback requirements
In San Francisco's residential zones the Planning Code requires property owners to follow yard and setback requirements. For more details, you can reference our handout, Zoning Administrator Bulletin 5.
- "Buildable area of the lot"
You may expand your building within the "buildable area of the lot". For these expansion projects and most change of use projects, "notification" to neighbors (known as Neighborhood Notification) will be required (except in Residential Commercial (RC) districts).
- Compliance with Residential Design Guidelines
In addition to the specific requirements of the Planning Code, buildings in Residential districts must conform to the Residential Design Guidelines which insure that the building's scale and architectural character are consistent with the surrounding neighborhood.
- Historic Resources
If your project involves alteration to structure that has been identified (through a Historic Resources Survey or other means) as a historic resource or if the structure is 50 years old or greater then there will most likely be additional materials and process involved in order to determine if the proposed work is appropriate. See our Historic Preservation section to read more about evaluating historic character and the additional procedures that might be required if a historic structure is impacted. Preservation Technical Specialists (planners with specialized training in evaluating impacts on historic resources) at the Planning Information Center (PIC) can help you understand what's allowed on your building. There are regularly scheduled hours where Preservation Technical Specialists are available to help you at the PIC, click here for more info.
- Environmental impact of your project
Projects may require a separate Environmental Evaluation Application depending on the scope of the project. Typically, alterations to existing structures that do not substantially enlarge or intensify the uses on the site nor significantly impact a historic resource, are considered "categorically exempt" from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and do not require an additional environmental evaluation. You can read a summary of the environmental review process on our Environmental Planning (formerly MEA) web page which includes a list of projects other categorically exempt projects. Contact the PIC if you have questions as to whether your project will require environmental evaluation.
- Construction of more than six dwelling units
Residential projects that include more than six units are subject to a Preliminary Project Assessment (PPA). This is a preliminary process that evaluates moderate to large projects before development applications are filed. Our goal is to provide you with assistance in advance of your application submittal, so that the application materials are complete and accurate, reducing the need for correction cycles that will delay approval.
- "Change of Use" as defined in Planning Code vs. Building Code
Don't forget that what constitutes a change of use is very different under the Planning and Building Codes. The Planning Code defines uses more narrowly based on the type of activity taking place. Understanding "Change of Use" as it's defined in both City Codes can be quite complicated. We recommend you contact the PIC to ensure you know exactly what is legally allowed for your project.
- Addition of street trees
Alterations to buildings that add substantial additional size, garages, or additional parking, among other things, must install street tree(s) (see San Francisco Planning Code, Section 138.1).
- Removal of a street tree
If a tree needs to be removed due to construction, a tree removal permit will be required from the Department of Public Works (DPW) and a new tree would need to be installed. (Follow this link to apply for a tree removal permit on DPW's site.)
- Tree protection
Through an effort to protect the City's most valuable, relevant and historic trees, the City has adopted tree protection legislation regarding certain trees. Be sure to check that a protected or landmarked tree won't be impacted by your project.
- Parking space
Most often each new dwelling unit will require a new parking space or require an exception to that requirement through a Variance Hearing.
- Impact fees
In some instances impact fees may apply to an expansion or change of use. Contact the PIC to determine if that is the case for your property.
Applying for Your Permit & Paying Fees
The following information must be submitted when applying for a Building Permit to expand a building and/or change the use of a building:
- Construction plans and/or drawings (existing and proposed floor plans are required for change of use projects). See our Plan Submittal Guidelines.
- Neighborhood Notification materials (if required)
- Forms provided in the Pre-Application Packet (if a Pre-Application Meeting is required)
Since every project is unique, we have a useful matrix handout, the Permit Application Checklist which explains submittal requirements based on the proposed work as described under "How to Use This Matrix." A checklist of required materials to be submitted with the Building Permit is also included in the Plan Submittal Guidelines.
To submit a permit, bring all necessary plans and materials as described in the Permit Application Checklist and/or Plan Submittal Guidelines to the Department of Building Inspection (DBI) at 1660 Mission Street. If you are a new user, we recommend you come to the Planning Information Center (PIC) also at 1660 Mission Street before proceeding to DBI.
Permit fees are based on the construction cost of your project. To estimate permit fees, the Planning Department's fee schedule is available online. We also have a fee calculator for Building Permits reviewed by the Planning Department. If you have any questions, please stop by or call the Planning Information Center (PIC) staff at (415) 558-6377. Depending on your location and project type, impact fees may be required for new construction. Contact the PIC to see if these requirements apply to your property. Please note this is for the Planning Department's review fees only. Fees for review by the Building Department are available here. You may also call DBI at 558-6088.
Don't forget: Should the cost of staff time exceed the initial fee you paid, it is possible an additional fee for time and materials may be billed upon completion of the permit review process. Additional fees may also be collected for preparation and recordation of any documents with the San Francisco Assessor-Recorder's office and for monitoring compliance with any conditions of approval.
Permit Review Process
1. Submittal
If you have already visited the Planning Information Center (PIC) at 1660 Mission Street and you are confident you have all the correct materials for your Building Permit Application, your next step is to submit your application materials & fees listed in Applying for My Permit & Paying Fees to the Department of Building Inspection (DBI) at 1660 Mission Street.
2. Screening
After initial screening of your application by DBI, the Planning Department will review the application to confirm it is complete for Planning Department requirements. If information is missing, or if corrections are needed, you will be asked to return with that information. If Neighborhood Notification is not required, planners at the Planning Information Center (PIC) will review the application to determine if it complies with the San Francisco Planning Code (view the code online) and is consistent with our Residential Design Guidelines and the additional regulations detailed above in Understanding What's Allowed under "Other Things to Consider." If so, it may be approved over-the-counter (OTC). If Neighborhood Notification is required, the application will be taken in and routed to an assigned planner at the Planning Department.
3. Plan Review
Similar to Screening in Step 2, when the Planning Department reviews your application, an assigned planner will determine if the application complies with the San Francisco Planning Code (view the code online) and is consistent with our Residential Design Guidelines and the additional regulations detailed above in Understanding What's Allowed under "Other Things to Consider." Once the planner determines that your project is approvable, he or she will initiate the Neighborhood Notification process.
4. Notification
Neighborhood Notification entails mailing an announcement of your project to neighbors and neighborhood groups so that they, or any person, may voice concerns they have over the proposal or so that they may request a Discretionary Review (a hearing seeking denial of the project or changes to the proposal before the San Francisco Planning Commission). The permit is held by Planning for a 30-day period from the date of mailed notification to allow adequate time for public review of the proposal. During the notification period, any person may ask the San Francisco Planning Commission to exercise its power of Discretionary Review over the Building Permit Application.
You will meet with review staff from different departments as directed by DBI, who will check your construction documents to verify the proposed construction will meet the various City Municipal Codes (view all codes online). Staff from the following departments will check a typical Building Permit for building expansion and/or change of use:
- Department of Building Inspection (DBI)
- Department of Public Works (DPW)/Bureau of Streets Management (BSM) (if use of streetspace/sidewalk is needed)
- San Francisco Fire Department (depending on occupancy)
- Public Utilities Commission (PUC)
Other agencies may be involved depending on the scope of your project.
When all the reviews are complete, the permit will be issued, and you can begin work. Note, there is a 15-day period after Building Permit issuance in which any party may appeal the permit to the Board of Appeals.
Inspections of permitted work is the responsibility of the Department of Building Inspection. DBI's Inspection Services page explains their inspection function.
Applications & Handouts
Applications Mentioned On This Page
- Pre-Application Notification Packet
- Variance Application Packet
- Environmental Evaluation Application
- Preliminary Project Assessment (PPA) Application
Handouts Mentioned On This Page
- Permit Application Checklist
- Plan Submittal Guidelines
- Neighborhood Notification
- Zoning Administrator Bulletin 4 regarding notification for minor expansion Building Permits
- Zoning Administrator Bulletin 5 regarding yard & rear setbacks, and buildable area
- Residential Design Guidelines


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My point is, keep maintaining GD with new engine features and old editor until the new editor is up to snuff. Yes, I know that with 4ian doing the most for the development, dev speed of new editor would greatly slow down, but I'd take that if it means I'll have something usable and with new runtime features to work with. Replacing the old editor is important, but it is not THAT important to pause development of the entire application over it, frankly I think 4ian is missing the forest for the trees.
C++ and C are like a sea. You can easily get lost in it.
Mst wrds cn b stll rd vn f y rmv ll vwls.