www.aarons2cents.com or visit www.aaronstelle.com/Blog.aspx
See you there!
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Aaron's 2 Cents Has Moved!!!
www.aarons2cents.com or visit www.aaronstelle.com/Blog.aspx
See you there!
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
NYE 2012 - Don't Drive Drunk - Safe Rides Home in Portland, OR
This blog has been moved to: http://www.aarons2cents.com
1. Designated Driver - Appoint someone that will ACTUALLY stay sober and be willing to hang around a bunch of drunks while doing so. This is not easy, and still 'having a couple' is not ideal!
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| RIDE ON Portland, OR |
I also received the following email from Ride On:
If you are making a post you may want to include it is $15 cash and we do pick up and drop off only in Portland Proper.
3. Radio Cab - (This would be my suggestion) If you cab to and from the venue, this eliminates the temptation for the DD to have drinks, or for anyone else to decide they're 'Good Enough' to drive. If you put 3-5 people in the cab it's not that expensive! To line up a cab call: 503.227.1212. (PUT IT IN YOUR PHONE NOW AND REMEMBER TO LINE IT UP EARLY FOR THE RIDE DOWN) or check out their site: http://radiocab.net
4. TriMet - TriMet busses, MAX, and Streetcar will all be FREE after 8pm and running until 3am on NYE. So, you can catch a bus, train, or the streetcar to and from your event! For more info and schedules visit their site: http://trimet.org/alerts/newyear.htm
6. AAA Members - In many states AAA offers Tipsy Tow, but not in Oregon. However, if you are a AAA member you can call and tell them you are 'Unable to Drive' and they will tow you home along with your car. Just call AAA at: 1.800.562.2582.
7. Bartenders - Don't forget, you can always ask the bartender. They deal with this all the time and will have ways to get you home.
I hope this is helpful and feel free to share this with your friends in Portland, OR. If you're in any other city Tipsy Tow may be an option. Otherwise, go out, have fun, and remember to be safe! Here's to 2012 being the best year yet!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Mellow Mushroom in the Pearl District of Portland
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| Mellow Mushroom Pearl District, Portland, OR |
This blog has been moved to: http://www.aarons2cents.com
As a resident of the Pearl District in Portland, OR, I've been waiting for a pizza place I can get excited about. After last night, I think Mellow Mushroom fits the bill! I'd driven by the location a few times, but had no idea what it was. After talking to a friend from South Carolina I found out it was a pizza place, and according to her it was, 'The best thing ever!'. So, I strapped on my walking shoes, walked down to Mellow Mushroom, and gave it a try.
I looked at the menu and decided on the Mighty Meaty and the Funky Q Chicken. I think I actually preferred the chicken, but both were great. The crust had a garlic taste or something special about it. They also have a whole wall of beer taps, and a bar to go along with your pizza. While I didn't have any libations, I'm sure you could find something to suit your fancy. Regardless, I'm happy to see some new blood in the Pearl District, and in Portland. Mellow Mushroom is definitely worth checking out. For more info go to: http://www.mellowmushroom.com/portland
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Free Beer Hockey Club - Playoff 2011 Roster and Game Program
This blog has been moved to: http://www.aarons2cents.com
10-Stelle 99-Conway 18-Manchester
13-Johnson 16-O'neal 26-Meyer
17-Satterberg 25-Gaustad 77-Nichols
(23-Gustafson) 87-Currigan
44-Tuominen 19-Alati
22-Conyard 88-Borgomainerio
0-Rurak
Conway Line:
10 Stelle-Aaron Stelly has shown the depth and resilience of FBHC this season with his clutch tying goal in the first round of the playoffs and subsequent Facebook movement to attract 100 fans to support Free Beers quest for the cup! Keys to Stellys game are his consistent tireless work ethic and grittiness in the corners and in front of the net. Pound for pound, Stelly is easily one of the toughest customers in the league.
99 Conway-Jumbo Joe is one of the main reasons why Free Beer is such a tight team. One of the original Beers, Jumbo is highly respected by all of his teammates for his attitude, compete level, and take no prisoners playing style. Jumbo has been battling a back injury this season and has really stepped up to play in the Sherwood Cup Playoffs, this man bleeds Golden Foamy.
18 Manchester-Nicknamed Hammer, Brad creates big problems for the opposing D Mans when he comes down the off wing reminiscent of a locomotive who's destination is the net. Brads size and skill are a huge asset to the Beers and complements his linemates toughness with the finesse of his hockey idols, Jaromir Jagr and former winterhawk Marian Hossa.
O'neal Line:
13 Johnson-BJ let's his shot speak for itself. If there was an award for most vocal person on the team, BJ would not be nominated. If there were an award for most underrated or most dangerous or most sneaky, BJ would probably take all three. Brians escapabiliity has netted him and the Beers a ton of goals this season and when he's left alone in the slot, Gustafson would bet his bottom dollar that BJ will score in two seconds or less if given the opportunity to unleash the heavy lazer.
16 O'neal-Never in the history of Free Beer Hockey Club has one player made his teammates scratch their heads as much as Jake the Snake. Whether it's a breakaway out of nowhere followed by a shot that the other teams goalie doesn't even see coming, an incredible pass to Johnson or Meyer, winning a battle on the boards, or being the most slippery player in the league, Jake brings it for the Beers and is a huge asset to the team and has performed exceptionally well with his linemates this season. A key piece to the Beers championship puzzle this season.
26 Meyer-Cal is an agitator, pest, grinder, sniper, and battles Nichols for the smelliest bag on the team. Cal drives opponents crazy with his physical play, full bearded grin, and mouth that produces comebacks such as 'you've got daddy issues' the the Lagers Chris Rowland, not to mention he is big, can skate, is good on stickhandling and has a cannon of a wrist shot. Another stellar pick up for FBHC.
Gaustad line:
17 Satterberg-despite being one of the smaller players on the team, Johnny Rocker makes up for it with speed, long stick, and, if he can get it off, a big shot. Once a young gun, this self proclaimed Grocery Stick now focuses less on scoring and more on winning battles in the corners, backchecking, and getting open for his linemates on the PP for the one-T.
25 Gaustad-Rob is so good that he is the only player on the team allowed to show up after a few whiskeys at Malones after a long work day making sure that his customers are Insured. But that's not all, Rob provides insurance to FBHC as well by adding bottomless depth to an already talent laden roster. Robs snap shot, playmaking ability and other intangibles are valued highly by the Beers. He also keeps the mood light and relaxed in the locker room and on the bench as he can often be seen smiling and laughing, even in the middle of a play at the pace of the Gold League.
77 Nichols-Filling in for Gustafson, Mattys wheels are unmatched. The fastest player for the Beers, Matty decimates defenseman on the turn, gets to all the pucks first, and then wheels through a couple guys for a quality shot. He plays way bigger than his size, and is a Jack of all trades for the Beers playing both forward and defense on a regular basis. When Matts not mixing it up for the Beers, he can, 9 times out if 10, be found at the Gypsy on NW 21st, or moving to a different part of town.
23 Gustafson-Nicknamed Grease, Kyles playmaking ability is second to none. The most dangerous passer in the league, Grease knows what's going to happen before the play knows it's going to happen and this ability makes him and his teammates that much better. Grease is also looked to for his incredible insight regarding the game of hockey and assumes the role of player/coach in tight games. Grease will be missed tonight and the Beers welcome him back to the roster for the Championship game with open arms.
Defense:
87 Currigan-Curry is a forward turned Defenseman who makes the transition look easy. A gifted athlete, Curry understands the little aspects of the game that most people overlook. On the reg, Curry is the anchor of the transition game for the beers, moving the puck up quick, chipping it off the glass, or taking advantage of dumping it in from the blue line several times per game. On the offensive side, Curry is efficient in the sense that when he shoots from the blueline, he shoots for stickblades and skates, and his vision on the PP makes him a dangerous man.
44 Tuominen-Nicknamed Tonto, Juha simply loves playing hockey. Coming off of another terrific season, Juhas offensive abilities led him to score a beautiful goal on the backhand ala Teemu Selanne that sparked a steady comeback in a game that found his D partner playing goalie earlier in the season. Juha has a big shot from the point and is always paying attention as to when to make himself available offensively for the Beers. His patience and quick hands help him outmaneuver forecheckers in the neutral zone regularly, and his dedication to FBHC is bar none. Juha is loved by his teammates and he, along with a handful of others, is an original Beer.
22 Conyard-Choeys hockey roots run deep in Portland and he and his family have given so much in order for Portland Hockey to still exist and we express much gratitude for that. Choeys wisdom helped spark a huge comeback for the Beers in round one of the playoffs and the Beers look to him for veteran leadership in these playoffs. One thing about Choeys game is that he very difficult to play against, whether it's as a forward or defenseman, Choey is in the opponents face all night creating a claustrophobic type atmosphere that suffocated opponents to the point of insanity, often resulting in a PP for the Beers. Bothered by a knee/groin/undisclosed lower body injury for the second half of the season, Choey knows what it takes to win in this league and he keeps coming back for more.
88 Borgomainerio-Tony B is one of the most feared players in the league and creates a safe environment for his teammates to play to their skill level. The Zdeno Chara of Sherwood Hockey, Tony B is a one man brick wall on the one on one and moves the puck up well on the breakout for the Beers. He also chips in offensively from time to time, scoring a big goal for the Beers in game 1 of the playoffs. Aside from on ice ability, Tony B has bonded well with the Beers in the dressing room. Look for him to sign a long term deal with the Beers in this coming off season.
0 Rurak-Newly Acquired and splitting time this season, Deano has been a solid backstop with his great saves and his ability to play the puck up to his teammates. Deano also plays with an edge for a goalie, mixing it up with several players this season, Deano has claimed his turf in goal for the Beers and is a great locker room guy as well, supplying copious amounts of beves after games, perfect for team building. Look for Deano to take it to the next level starting tonight.
19 Alati-El Capitan, the Godfather, the Italian Stallion, Mr T, if it weren't for T's efforts we would not be able to call the Beers OUR TEAM! T's tireless dedication to FBHC deserves recognition and our thanks as players for being able to participate in such an awesome hockey experience. Yes it's just men's league, buy yes we want to win, yes we want to be the best, yes we are the best, and yes, T makes it happen for us year after year. Coming off a Cleanse, T has shed 20-25 lbs and is in the best shape of his life for these playoffs. T's positioning, neutral zone passing, and +/- make him a solid veteran defenseman for the Beers. Not to mention his negotiating ability with referees and league directors to get the best for his teammates, Free Beer is T's baby, and baby needs another Sherwood Cup!
Let's go Beers!
See you tonight, ready for battle!
Respectfully submitted,
Johnny Rocker #17
FREE BEER HOCKEY CLUB
Portland, OR, USA
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Dine out Portland, OR! MercyCorps Benefit for Japan
This blog has been moved to: http://www.aarons2cents.com
If you talk to people in Portland about what makes this city special, food and beer will traditionally be in the top 3. Portland is a city full of delicious food that is traditionally fairly inexpensive. The problem I have is that there are so many good spots it’s hard to figure out which one to try next. As of late my two favorites are Silk in the Pearl district, and Ya Hala in the Gateway district. This is not to say I don’t love a lot of other places, but I’d take out of towners to these restaurants any day of the week!
That being said, today, Tuesday March 29, 2011 there is a great reason to try a new restaurant. MercyCorps and a whole list of restaurants are participating in Dine out Portland. Not only will you be supporting the local economy and restaurants, but the restaurants are donating all or a portion of their proceeds to MercyCorps relief effort for Japan. This is a very personal issue to me as the Hamada family in Yokohama are like family to me. So, today is the perfect time to take your wife, girlfriend, or even buddy out for a great meal at a new restaurant. I can’t think of a better reason to sneak out of the house and enjoy a night in Portland.
For a complete list of the participating restaurants click here.
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Friday, March 11, 2011
Oregon Bills HB2214 and SB555 - Autism from a Parent's Perspective
If you haven't heard or read about Oregon House Bill HB 2214 or Senate Bill SB555 you are probably not alone. The only reason I know about it is becasue of my coworker, Angela Wright, who sent me the email below. She is one of the most caring and wonderful people I have ever met, and I have seen and heard first hand about the strides she has made with her son. Please read the email below and please take the time to act on it!
I am desperately begging for all your help. I can't explain to anyone how important the Autism Insurance Reform Bills will be for not only my son, but thousands of other children in our State. Literally, Tyler's future is resting in if these Bills can get passed here in Oregon. Without the Bills, we can not afford to keep Tyler in his therapies that have been a huge miracle for us and especially for him in the future. I know you have seen my emails and my posts on Facebook, but I don't know if you actually understand what these Bills can do for families with children with Autism. Please read the update from Paul Terdal and pass this email to as many people as you can. We are trying for a "grassroots" movement to not let Insurance Companies get away with delaying the reform and to stop the discrimination against my son and thousands of other children.
Here is what I need you to do. It will literally take 2 minutes to send an email. That is all I ask..... actually beg of you!
• Contact your own state legislators – again – and ask them to call upon both the House Health Care committee and Senate Health Care, Human Services and Rural Health committee to schedule votes to approve HB2214 and SB555. Tell them that the insurance companies have dragged their feet long enough, and that we should follow the lead of 24 other states in passing comprehensive Autism Health Insurance Reform now. You can find your legislator’s contact information at: http://www.leg.state.or.us/findlegsltr/
• Send an e-mail to Sen. Laurie Monnes Anderson, the Chair of the Senate Health Care, Human Services and Rural Health committee; ask her (politely) to schedule a vote on SB555, and to support it. Her e-mail address is: sen.lauriemonnesanderson@state.or.us
You can read below about more updates. I have attended two of the hearing and listened to the 3rd (invite only to Insurance Companies) on the web. There is substantial evidence this will actually save tax payers money and probably will not increase insurance rates by any more than $.20 cents a month per member, if that!!! It will actual save an estimate of 65 million dollars for the school budget by helping reduce the early intervention/special education as parents (like me) will provide this privately through insurance. This will open it up to the families of low income, who have no insurance, or who can not afford the high deductible and co-pays from the insurance companies. We stopped the County program (for free paid by tax payers) with Tyler once we started with his private services. If you want more information before you decide to support the Bills, please let me know. You can also visit www.autismvotes.org. I know State Budget and deficit is important to people, so I want to make it clear these Bills are not adding but will actual save in the State Budget over time. Goodness... the States passing these Bills are the most conservative red States there are!!! It is a very bi-partisan Bill and should have complete support from the citizens.
Please pass this along to your Friends and Family and ask them to take two minutes to send an email as well.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Pearl District Portland, OR - Qwiki
This blog has been moved to: http://www.aarons2cents.com
If you haven't seen Qwiki.com, this is a very cool site that is coming out. When I was working as a real estate agent, I was spending a lot of time working on ways to establish and brand myself in the Pearl District. If I was able to embed this technology into my website it would have been a really cool landing page I could have sent all of my potential clients to. Check it out, and when this becomes a full version it's going to be exciting! (This is the small version, you can make the video bigger)
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