L.E.Fant of Las Vegas

Smog Check $9.99 including certificate...

2011-05-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

L.E. FANT READ THE COUPON AND NOTED THAT THERE WERE NO EXCEPTIONS LISTED. HE TOOK HIS R.V. TO THE STORE FOR A $9.99 SMOG CHECK BUT MR. MIELE OF PURRFECT REFUSED THE COUPON AND STATED THAT THE COST WILL BE $29.99.

L.E. ARGUED THAT THE COUPON SHOULD BE HONORED BECAUSE IT DOES NOT CONTAIN ANY EXCLUSIONS AND IF REFUSED MUST SURELY BE CONSIDERED TO BE FALSE ADVERTISING.

MR. MIELE STEADFASTLY REFUSED TO HONOR THE COUPON AND AGREED THAT L.E. SHOULD PURSUE HIS GRIEVEANCE WITH BBB, DMV, ETC

L.E. IS DOING SO.

While it is apparently usual that an RV is considered a heavy duty vehicle and has a higher charge for a smog test, L.E. believes that the advertisement should contain an exclusion to that effect.

L.E. believes that it is unreasonable that an R.V'er drives his machine [at 8mpg or so] across town to save a few $$ by using the coupon, yet, when he requests the coupon service he is refused.

In Nevada we no longer have a Consumer Affairs Division, so L.E. conjectures that folks such as Purrfect will continue to deceive.

Dolce Gusto, Keurig, Tassimo or?

2010-12-01T16:12:00.000-08:00

L.E. Fant and wife picked up a Dolce Gusto single serve coffee machine last weekend.

There was much discussion regarding which one to buy...

The Keurig has a huge choice of coffee blends yet needs additional hardware to "froth milk" for latte and cappuccino drinks.

The Dolce Gusto has a lesser range of coffee blends but does make latte and cappuccino drinks without extra equipment.

As the Cuisinart coffee maker is till functioning well and makes decent regular coffee, our decision was based on ease of making latte and cappuccino drinks.

We are pleased with the machine so far. As expected the cost of each drink is around one Dollar for latte and cappuccino and fifty cents for straight coffee.

The latte and cappuccino is, to our taste, remarkably good and no trip to Starbucks and the $4.00 is now needed when we desire such drinks.

COX CABLE FAILS TO PLEASE.

2010-05-10T15:04:00.000-07:00

Digital Devils-as L.E. Fant refers to Cox Cable- has at last paid L.E. his account balance. It took them approximately TWO YEARS to do so.

You may recall that L.E. closed his account with this cable monopoly around June of 2008. He returned all equipment and was provided a receipt which showed a balance [seemingly low, however apparently many charges for termination occur] of $4 or so.

L.E. expected a check to arrive-however, one did not arrive and now two years have passed.

At a chance meeting with a Cox employee L.E. mentioned the lack of refund and the employee made inquiry at Cox. Some weeks later a check arrived.

One may wonder how many such balances are kept by Cox even though properly it should mail a check to its ex-customer.

This experience vindicates L.E.'s decision to cease dealing with the digital Devil as he prefers to know Cox Cable as.

Our City is now poor...SO LET US BUILD A NEW CITY HALL!

2010-01-14T12:33:00.000-08:00

L.E. Fant's twin Grand Daughter Astrid

born extremely prematurely together with her sister

under a single payer health care system. She has enjoyed

first class care, as has her sister Goldie.

Total out of pocket expenses, to date, for the births,

months of neo -natal ICU, surgeries, prescriptions

and home care amount to approximately FIFTY DOLLARS!!!

Compare that experience to that of a friend who just gave birth to a wonderful and healthy daughter. Even with "good insurance" she had out of pocket expenses approximately 100 times more for a single birth-not twins with extreme difficulties due to extreme premature births.

L.E.'s friend now cannot stay with her new born daughter as she desires-SHE HAS TO GO BACK TO WORK OR LOSE HER FAMILY'S HEALTH INSURANCE.

TO BUY INSURANCE FOR HER YOUNG FAMILY IS PROHIBITIVE AS THE COST IS OVER $1,200 PER MONTH.

Whereas, in the case of Astrid and Goldie their parents may enjoy time with their children as their government has mandated four weeks annual leave with full pay and many public holidays which are also paid-for all. Also not forgetting mandated paid maternity leave and other benefits which together make for a far less stressful time for new parents. All this makes for a good quality of life which L.E. conjectures may well be better than ours in Las Vegas where the archaic so-called "right to work" labor law exists along with many other measures which exist to the detriment of workers.

It appears that meaningful health care reform is unlikely for us lucky folks in the richest country in the world because we have been provided much advertising (using our health care Dollars) to prolong our existing system whereby Insurance corporations-not medical providers run our health care.

Senate majority leader HARRY REID has put his foot in his mouth by making comments regarding then candidate Obama. His comments were, at best, in extremely poor taste. One must wonder whether power has influenced Senator Reid negatively as it has many others in high places.

Our State now has both federal Senators appearing tarnished. Maybe it is time that they were gone.

OUR CITY IS SUFFERING AS REVENUES ARE DOWN.

Workers are being asked to take large pay cuts.

One wonders whether our City officials have considered raising franchise fees on corporations such as COX COMMUNICATIONS, our monopolistic cable provider and who likely pays a tiny fee for use of our taxpayer facilities. Does Nevada Power and Southwest Gas pay a reasonable franchise fee to us? Do telephone companies pay fees for using our infrastructure?

Is it a good idea to build a new City Hall under the existing economic conditions?

SEASONS GREETINGS TO ALL

2009-12-21T15:45:00.001-08:00

CUISINART DID PROVIDE A NEW COFFEE MAKER FOR L.E.AFTER HE TWITTERED.

SUBSTANTIVE HEALTHCARE REFORM SEEMS UNLIKELY. THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY HAS USED MANY $MILLIONS OF ITS SUBSCRIBERS' PREMIUMS TO "EDUCATE" OUR POPULATION.

L.E. recently spent one day in a local hospital. The hospital bill was $52,816.81. However, if one has no insurance and pays cash-a 20% discount will be given.

There is much to discuss. Such as the ridiculous interest rates banks are charging on credit card accounts-even though they are taking our taxpayer money at almost no interest. The same banks which have largely destroyed our property values here in Las Vegas.

L.E. notes that our property values have declined approximately 70%-so far!!!!!!

Where are the regulations to control these pariahs that we were promised by our elected officials?

Cuisinart's "customer care" is careless!!

2009-07-16T08:16:00.000-07:00

Another week has passed, many more emails to Cuisinart WITHOUT ANY RESPONSE WHATSOEVER, no replacement coffee maker has arrived and no refund check has arrived.

L.E. Fant has joined Twitter [as LEFantofLV] in order that he may more esily reach greater numbers of people and spread the word regarding Cuisinart's shameful practices and poor, inferior product which he is unable to endorse. Check out Twitter .com.

He will likely also make a video and post it to U Tube and here in a similar attempt.

L.E. has now obtained the names and addresses of high ranking Cuisinart officials, including that of its founder. L.E. conjectures whether its founder is pleased with the way the company is behaving in this instance. L.E. shall inquire.

HEALTHCARE FOR ALL?
Nevada Senator Harry Reid is still filling our television screens with ads paid for by the health care industry which encourage us to thank Harry for his great work on our behalf.

One may assume form these ads and their timing that Harry never made effort to seriously consider single payer heath care as an option. Shame on you Harry.

Also apparently many democrats who, when unable to change the status quo, voiced support for a single payer, all in, none out, heathcare system, now able to institute such a system, have chosen to not do so. Call them if you may and remind them of their dupliciousness.

Next post L.E. Fant will discuss (again) Nevada Energy's latest money grab and HSBC Bank's attempts at usuary. Stay tuned as once was said [though tune out Harry's commercials].

Cuisinart joins L.E.'s list of disfavored, despised companies!!

2009-07-10T09:02:00.000-07:00

As L.E.'s gentle readers will recall, Las Vegas Cox Cable (local cable TV monopoly) is despised by him as a digital devil [coincidentally after over one year since L.E. properly cancelled his service-Cox has failed to provide L.E. with his account balance funds].

Now a new contender for L.E. Fant's pillory has emerged as being entirely worthy of his ire.

Cuisinart brand-marketed as a premium range of kitchen products, in L.E.'s opinion, has a shameful customer service record, a deceptive and meaningless product warranty and despite many emails steadfastly refuses to communicate with L.E.

Background: L.E. desires a single daily cup of coffee. He prefers to brew it himself and likes it to be piping hot.

He was attracted to Cuisinart's DC-2000 coffee machine as it promised hot coffee and importantly held its brewed coffee in a heated tank not the usual carafe. Also its box states it comes with a three year warranty (which implies it likely will last that time).

Believing the brand to be superior L.E. willingly paid a premium price for his coffee maker.

The machine worked for only a few weeks and began to intermittently fail. In a short time thereafter the machine totally failed. L.E. noticed many folk making similar observations on the web.
L.E. contacted Cuisinart's so-called customer care department (in mid May, 2009) and was provided a case number and was further told to call back in a week to confirm that a replacement machine was being delivered to him.

A few weeks later L.E. contacted "Larry" at Cuisinart customer care and was informed that no product was available to replace L.E.'s machine and that no time could be provided that it would be available. L.E. suggested to Larry that perhaps Cuisinart should withdraw stock from retailers and make good on its warranty claims, alternatively, provide a voucher that those awaiting a machine could go to a retailer and pick one up. Larry responded "that will never happen" and suggested that L.E. take a different model as replacement (without tank). L.E. responded that he purchased the particular model for its features not on a whim and a non tank replacement was unacceptable.

After a few more weeks without resolution and no intake of morning coffee, L.E. emailed Cuisinart marketing department and asked that they respond to his email which asked whether they considered it good marketing policy to sell a product based upon a three year warranty whereas, they apparently have no intention to uphold the warranty.

No response whatsoever has been forthcoming. L.E. next resent that email and sent another to Cuisinart product development department suggesting they develop a reliable model of the DCC 2000.

Again, no response whatsover has been forthcoming.

L.E. has (yesterday) purchased a tank type coffee machine of a different brand (Hamilton Beach) for approximately 25% of the cost of his useless Cuisinart DCC 2000.

This is in some ways analogous to our healthcare system. The greedy corporations, in their unfettered avarice, and their well trained polititians treat us as inferior beings even though we know there is a better system available which may benefit all.

In this instance Cuisinart believes it may stonewall L.E.'s serious complaint regarding its product and failure to live up to its stated, express warranty.

L.E. recommends that you not buy any Cuisinart product in future because items of apparently equal quality may be obtained for 75% less cost and the "premium" stance of the Cuisinart line of products cannot be taken seriously because of the forgoing facts.

All together now---"CUISINART SUCKS and must do better before I will buy its products !!!"

L.E. Fant will continue to disseminate this anecdote thoughout the web in hope of changing the ways of Cuisinart.

More later.

SINGLE PAYER HEALTHCARE IS NEEDED IN THE U.S.

2009-07-01T13:24:00.000-07:00

It appears that our elected officials are refusing to seriously (or in any way)consider single payer healthcare as an option for the reform of the current corporate enrichment system.

L.E. is sure that many of you (in Southern Nevada) have by now seen the ads which the pharmaceutical research and industry corporations are running for Harry Reid. The ads exhort us to call Harry and thank him for the great work he has, and is doing for us particularly with regard to his efforts to provide health care for all.

L.E. conjectures that for these folk to spend such vast sums of money on Harry (running these ads extensively)-there is likely an expected quid pro quo. It is likely that Harry's championed health care reform will not be single payer but a system controlled by those who are running the ads on his behalf.

L.E. believes that it is time that we wrest control of our health care from the corporate giants and instruct our elected officials (such as Senator Reid) that we desire a single payer system which provides care at reasonable cost to all.

L.E. lived in Australia for a time. During his residence Australia changed from a private healthcare system (Blue Cross, etc.) to a single payer system. The standard of care did not, in L.E.'s opinion, diminish in any way and all are covered.

The scare tactics spread by the current health care profiteers should not be accepted without your proper investigation. Canada, Europe and many (actually probably most) countries have and enjoy single payer health care at `reasonable cost.

An example of how our system has become even more ridiculous:

A couple of months back Mrs. L.E. Fant took ill while on a business trip to a South Carolina. She fought the symtoms for a couple of days in order to come home. On picking her up at the airporp on a Friday evening we decided that it was time for a vist to an E.R. That visit, which lasted a couple of hours and involved maybe 10 minutes with a doctor and a few tests was billed at very close to $10,000. However, that diagnosis provided and treatment failed to relieve her symptoms and further visits (to a different provider with more costs) were necessary before a dignosis/treatment which relieved her symptoms were found. This from the so-called best healthcare system in the world?

L.E. believes it is highly likely that you know folks who do not have health insurance, maybe even a family member. Many of these folk live in terror of becoming ill. When they become so sick that they determine a doctor's treatment is imperative, they often go the our high cost E.R's. Most often the cost of their treatment cannot be managed by them (or many if the above example is typical) and is, therefore, spreaqd out to be paid by others.

We need single payer healthcare so our citizens can relieve themselves of the stress of knowing they cannot afford preventative medicine, the citizens of the greatest county in the world deserve single payer-all in none out-healthcare.

L.E. urges you all to call Harry Reid and say "Harry, we are your constituents, not the healthcare moguls, and we demand single payer healthcare which cover every American. When you champion that cause we will thank you."

Talk this over with your friends and family, make investigation of how single payer works in most other countries, investigate why we have the highest cost for prescription drugs in the world. If you know a person who has no healthcare insurance-put youself in their shoes for a moment or two. Then wonder why this situation can exist in the richest country in the world. One reason is that we allow it to. You will have others.

Here we go...NO COAL FIRED ELECTRICAL ENERGY PLANTS FOR NEVADA

2008-11-14T09:45:00.000-08:00

It is abundantly clear that coal fired power plants are leading generators of not only electrical energy but also toxic heavy metals such as mercury as well as CO2 and other harmful emissions. L.E. Fant believes there should, at least, be a moratorium on construction of any such plants pending technology which makes them totally harmless to our environment and , therefore, our health.

Sierra Pacific/ Nevada Power (now Nevada Energy) apparently plan to build such a plant near Ely as does L.S. Power/ Dynegy and Sithe Global plan a plant near Mesquite.

Back in August, 2007 Harry Reid (Nevada Senator, majority leader) opposed the building of these power plants. We should write/ email him asking that he confirm that stance and cc all our federal and state elected officials. If we all do this our voice of opposition will be heard.

L.E. is, herein, thoughtfully providing a list of contact numbers to assist you in voicing our opposition to coal fired power plants in Nevada (or anywhere for that matter):

U S Senator J ohn E nsign (R)

119 RUSSELL SENATE OFFICE BUILDING, WASHINGTON DC 20510(202) 224-6244
E-mail: http://ensign.senate.gov/forms/email_form.cfm

U S Senator Harry Reid (D)
528 HART SENATE OFFICE BUILDING, WASHINGTON DC 20510(202) 224-3542
E-mail: http://reid.senate.gov/email_form.cfm

U S Congresswoman Shelley Berkley (D)
439 CANNON HOUSE OFFICE BUILDING, WASHINGTON DC 20515(202) 225-5965 x1505
E-mail: http://www.house.gov/berkley/con_email.html

U S Congressman Dean Heller (R)
1023 LONGWORTH, WASHINGTON DC 20515(202) 225-6155

E-mail: None

U S Congressman Jon Porter (R)
218 CANNON HOUSE OFFICE BUILDING, WASHINGTON DC 20515(202) 225-3252
E-mail: http://www.house.gov/porter/contact/

Dina Titus (who will shortly replace Porter): Address: Post Office Box 50614, Henderson, NV 89016

Also, here is contact info for

NSOE (Nevada State Office of Energy) Staff / Contact Information
727 Fairview Drive, Suite F, Carson City, Nevada 89701
Phone: (775) 687-9700Fax: (775) 687-9714
Contact Information (Phone if different than above):
Dr. Hatice Gecol
Director of NSOE and Energy/Science Advisor to the Governor
hgecol@gov.nv.gov (775) 684 5670
Nick Vander Poel
Deputy Director
nvp@energy.nv.gov (775) 720-8682
Pete Konesky
Staff Engineer
pkonesky@energy.nv.gov(775) 720-8681
Lorayn Walser
Management Analyst II
lwalser@energy.nv.gov(775) 687-9706
Suzanne Brunette
Accountant
sbrunette@energy.nv.gov (775) 687-9602

Not forgetting our Governor:
Office of Governor Jim Gibbons Contact Information
Carson City State Capitol101 N. Carson Street, Carson City, NV 89701(775) 684-5670Fax: (775) 684-5683click here ... Las Vegas, Grant Sawyer State Office Building555 East Washington, Suite 5100 Las Vegas, NV 89101(702) 486-2500 Fax: (702) 486-2505click here ...

and our "friends" at Nevada Energy:
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AND NOT FORGETTING NEVADA EPA:

To retrieve messages from home dial Audix 684-4499 Revised November 5, 2008
PHONE DIRECTORY
NEVADA DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
NDEP – Carson City
(775) 687-4670
901 So. Stewart Street, Ste 4001
Carson City, NV 89701-5249
ADMIN OFFICE Ste 4001
Drozdoff, Leo – Administrator 79301
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Admin III 79508
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OFA fax (775) 687-9510
OFPM Ste 4006
Sally Ravenelle – ASO 79313>􀀄 Cowan, Lucy 79312
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OFPM fax (775) 687-4677 OIM Ste 4005
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Zimmerman, Rebecca** 79348
** computer help desk
AIR POLL CNTRL Ste 4002
Remer, Greg - Chief 79359
( See AQP for support staff )
Davis, Ray 79541
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Air Pollution fax (775) 687-6396
AIR QUALITY PLAN Ste 4003
Elges, Mike – Chief 79329
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􀀄 Douglas, Cathy 79349
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Soleta, Tanya 79540
Williams, Paul 7954 Zusy, Mark 79479
CORR ACTIONS Ste 3005
Najima, Jim – Chief 79484
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􀀄 Joncas, Victoria 79368
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Wright, Allie 79370
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Cabble, Michael 79504
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MINING REG &; RECL Ste 3002
Gaskin, Dave – Chief 79397
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Mining fax (775) 684-5259 SAFE DRKING WTR Ste 3001
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Balderson, Jim 79517
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Drew, Rich 7 9528 Kremer, Lisa 79524 Lechler, Patty 7 9529Neubert, Judy 79523
Schmelzer, Kerry 79516 Seifert, Andrea 79526
SDW fax (775) 687-5699R WASTE MGMT Ste 4004 Noack, Eric – Chief 79366 Maurer, Julie 79459
􀀄 Barstad, Cathy 79462
Benson, Diane 79461
Chambers, Evan 79473
Cripe, Don 79464
Donaldson, Matt 79316
Glick, Ed 79467 Godbout, Maureen 79482 Kailash, Sree 79471
Keith, Mike 79499
Leigh, Mike 79465
McAuliffe, Matt 79474 Micklish, Bill 79472
Sergent, Chet 79466
Settelmeyer, Annalyn 79476
Simpson, Dave 79469
Taylor, Jon 79477
Trent, Jim 79478 RCRA Notification Prgm 79481
Fax (775) 687-5856
WATER POLL CNTL Ste 3003
Palm, Jon – Chief 79433
􀀄English, Anna 79418
Hartley, Bonnie 79430
Hult, Susie 79492
Meyers, Kim 79442
Bouas, Toni 79421 Borgzinner, Kim 79503
Erwin, Jeff 79502
Hartley, Janine 79458 Kaminski, Mark 79424
King, Valerie 79427
Land, Russ 79428
Lanza, Alex 79468
Lawson, Cliff 79435
Maez, Joe 79431 Melandar, Janet 79315
McGoff, Steve 79429 Mulligan, Icyl 79432
Nguyen, My-Linh 79422
Poulson, Ginger 79419
Reid, Mickie 79434
Rose, Krissy 79440
Saunders, Rob 79437
Silsby, Diana 79438
Sowles-Dahl, Sylvia 79487 Stegeman, Sam 79538
Tinney, Al 79414
WPC fax (775) 687-4684 WATER QUAL PLAN Ste 3004
Sertic, Kathy – Chief 79455 Fleming, Karen 79444
Uber, Denise 79507
Comba, Paul 79446
Fox, Neil 79309
Gentry, Glen 79448
Grein, Sondra 79452 Heggeness, John 79449 Kuchnicki, Jason 79450
LaFara, Don 79491
Pahl, Randy 79453
Rairick, Sara 79490
Riedl, Mary Kay 79454
Stone, Jean 79456 Skudlarek, Ed 79451
Vargas, Karen 79457
Widegren, Birgit 79550
Willard, Pam 79311 NDEP – Las Vegas
(702) 486-2850
2030 E Flamingo Rd, Ste 230
Las Vegas, NV 89119-0837 MacDougall, Jeff x233
BFF/LV Office Manager
Murphy, Tim – BFF Chief
486-2850 x231
Walker, Debbie x254 Huderski, Marlene x221
Andres, Chris BFF x232
Arav-Piper, Sara BCA x228
Asgarian, Andy BSDW x249
Campbell, Caren BAPC x241
Campbell, Kevin BFF x222 Croft, Todd BCA x230
Dansby, Gail BFF x224 Dotchin, JD BCA x235
Fergus, Kathryn BWM x251
Harbour, Shannon BCA x240
Jacobson, Britt BFF x236
Larson, James BSDW x253
Lloyd, David BWPC x250
Mabry, Frank BWM x244
McLane, Mark BFF x226
Nicodemus, Dennis BFF x237R>Raab, Greg BFF x242
Rakvica, Brian BCA x247
Reed,, Jason BCA X243
Richardson, Mike BWM x227
Schoop, Chad BWPC x248
Skorska, Marysia BCA x252>Sous, Nadir BWPC x246>Stuto, John BWM x225
Verchick, Mike BWM x239
Wong, John BFF x245
Zaferatos, Ted BFF x234
􀂲 Red Rock Conf. room x223
Main Fax (702) 486-2863
DIRECTOR’S OFFICE
main number 42700
ATTY GENERAL’S OFFICE
100 No. Carson Street
Carson City, NV 89701
Frey, Bill 684-1229
Hess, Janet 684-1270
Fax (775) 684-1108
3rd & 4th floor conference
rooms
CARSON (3-N-W) 79534
TRUCKEE (3-N-C) 79387
COLORADO (3-N-E) 79532
HUMBOLDT (3-So) 79533
MOJAVE (4-Adm) 79305
PAHRANAGAT (4-N-W) 79509
TOIYABE (4-N-C) 79512
TOQUIMA (4-N-E) 79513
GREAT BASIN (4-South) 79306
Las Vegas conference room
(702) 486-2850 x 223
GROUP PAGING
MAIN (includes all AAs & 310
conference rooms)
Air Pollution Control 320
Air Quality Planning 300
Corrective Action 330
Administration 340
Mining 350
Water Pollution Control 360
Water Quality Planning 370
Waste Management 380

LET US GO TO WORK!

Times are a changin'

2008-11-07T08:56:00.000-08:00

Beetle just returned 40mpg in city use (less use of A.C. allowed this 4 mpg or so improvement).

The beetle also recently returned 50 mpg on a trip to the Lake Tahoe area where L.E. attended court to defend himself against allegations of an over-zealous CHP officer who attempted to assume and act upon powers of inquisition (perhaps encouraged by the telecom act?) which he does not have.

When L.E. refused to be party to his inquisition, the CHP person threatened to (and did) issue a citation claiming the beetle was mechanically defective.

L.E. prevailed.

Did the fat lady sing?

The elections are over. We have a president elect.

L.E. is alarmed at the choices he is making for Chief of Staff and indications of his choices for cabinet posts. Republicans should be happy as apparently the status quo is intact. I.e. it appears highly likely, as anticipated, that the existing corporate dominance of our government will remain.

A non-partisan organization is being established in order that citizens may hold their elected representative's feet to the fire. November5.org

THREE COAL FIRED POWER PLANTS FOR NEVADA?

That is the intention of the power industry. If we have any respect for the future, our children's and grand children's health; if we have any respect for our proper guardianship of our ecology-WE SHOULD JOIN TOGETHER TO STOP ANY COAL FIRED POWER GENERATION PLANTS BEING CONSTRUCTED IN OUR STATE (OR ANYWHERE).

KEEP WATCHING FOR HOW TO GET ONBOARD.

CELL PHONES IN CARS?

Do you agree with L.E. that they create danger and, therefore, should be banned in cars? Please take poll.

He's Back!!!! L.E. Fant has news for you.

2008-08-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

L.E. just finished reading this book. It is a chilling read.

If you wonder why our economy is in doldrums, if you wonder why our Dollar is now a feeble currency. If you wonder why our standard of living has steadily deteriorated over the past years. If you wonder why Iraq is in such a mess. If you wonder why Hugo Chavez is an extremely popular leader in Venezuela. If you wonder why South Africa's indigenous people are worse off after years of ANC rule. You need to read this book. If you wonder why Lockheed Martin draws our Social Security checks, or why huge unemployment is necessary (to Friedmanites) way of economic life, read this book.

If you wonder why much of the world does not see us as generous benefactors, read this book.

If you wonder which traits and beliefs Bush G.W., Chaney and Rumsfeld share-read this book.

If you are a party line Republican or a disenchanted Democrat. If you are not really sure that McCain is your best choice. If you are not sure of Obama or Biden (who apparently wholly supported the credit card corporations' driven changes to our bankruptcy act which enslaves consumers, in L.E.'s view, read this book. Remember votes need to be earned by each individual nominee.

The author fully documents sources and quotations-no "black helicopter" stuff here.

If you have heard of the "New Deal," Keynes, Friedman or the "Chicago Boys" you will find this book riveting.

Ralph Nader at a recent Las Vegas Press Conference/ Lunch. Thank him for car safety standards. Thank him for the Clean Water Act. Thank him for continuing to care for our well being and for his attempts to wean our governments from corporate dominance (another reason to read Klein's magnificent book).

It is time that you take notice. It is time that you get involved.

L.E. (or his alter ego) is going to Denver next week and Minneapolis the week after to attend rallies in an effort to open the Presidential Debates which is an effort to save our democracy from absolute corporate control.

He will keep you posted. Should you want to get involved in saving us and our democracy. If you are tired of the status quo:

http://www.votenader.org

P.S. RV and Boat at bargain price-be quick:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=017&sspagename=STRK%3AMEBI%3AIT&viewitem=&item=270265909941&rd=1

Las Vegas Commentary

2008-07-23T10:15:00.000-07:00

Abandon hope all ye who enter here.

Its been a while since L.E. Fant posted. He has been busy with his new puppy who is now nearly five months old.

DIGITAL DEVILS:

100% of poll respondents concluded that it is time for L.E. Fant to sever his relationship with the cable TV monopoly **x Cable.

L.E. is pleased to announce that he did so last month and now enjoys satellite TV service for around one half of what he paid the digital devils.

L.E.'s last correspondence to the Devil remains ignored.

OUR STATE IS IN A SAD WAY:

Our Governor apparently chose to lean on (or have other lean on his behalf) a county assessor in order that his land holding be treated more favorably (saving him around $5,000 per annum in taxes).

This at a time when state coffers (and those of counties) are at extremely low levels and any contribution is helpful.

Elliot Sptitzer succumbed to the corruption of power and all indications are that our governor also believes he deserves or is entitled to special treatment.

It may be noted that his behavior may be an example of extreme hypocracy as the State scrambles to reduce costs and increase income.

NADER CAMPAIGN OPENS NEVADA OFFICE:

L.E. will bake special muffins for those who attend the grand opening this coming Saturday, July 26 at 5:30 p.m.

At 6:00 p.m. Ralph Nader will speak via conference call and take questions.

Come along if you can make it-2385 N. DECATUR BLVD., LAS VEGAS 89108. [Smoke Ranch/ Decatur].

The campaign is a grass roots one locally manned by volunteers who share a common interest in wresting control of government from corporations and returning power to the people as anticipated by our founding fathers.

Las Vegas Digital Devils relentlessly harass L.E. Fant!!

2008-06-22T09:14:00.000-07:00

For the third consecutive month, despite many, many emails stating otherwise, C*x C*ble again provides incorrect billing details to L.E.

Today L.E. went online to pay his cable bill. The requested amount, shown as "Total Account Balance" is $42.96. L.E.knows better from the past three months interaction with these devils and believes that the amount is actually $67 or so.

When moving through the payment process, various screens show an amount due of $42, etc. L.E. had to change various "boxes" to pay the $67 amount he believes to be accurate. Should he have chosen to pay the amount requested by C*x, it is highly likely that shortly thereafter a disconnect notice will arrive in the mail with threats of many fees and charges unless a further amount be immediately paid.

Today's billing information shows that, despite prior assurances from C*x, L.E.'s account information has not been rectified and the excuses offered by them appear false.

L.E. spent further time this morning drafting terse correspondence to these digital devils in the hope that they will properly address this matter without their usual condescension and high handedness.

That one must spend considerable time attempting to resolve matters such as this is a result, in L.E. Fant of Las Vegas's opinion, of us allowing corporations to enjoy almost untouchable status.

"Big business is not dangerous because it is big, but because its bigness is an unwholesome inflation created by privileges and exemptions which it ought not to enjoy." - Woodrow Wilson.

"The citizens of the United States must control the mighty commercial forces which they themselves called into being."- Theodore Roosevelt.

We have attained an unwholesome level of corporate control over our lives, according to L.E. Our governments large and small, federal and local, are all tainted and are more involved with furthering corporate ambition than attending the desires of the people.

As shown above L.E.'s frustrating interaction with the monopoly (due to our local government) TV cable provider is a prime example of the dire circumstances we now find ourselves in.

If in Nevada and if one is tired of such treatment only one Presidential candidate promises to attempt to wrest power from the corporations and return it to the people.

The Nader campaign has a new Nevada state coordinator who is on a mission to get the required number of signatures on a petition to place Nader on Nevada's ballot.

Las Vegas Democracy, Las Vegas fuel consumption, Las Vegas Business blacklisted by L.E. Fant.

2008-06-18T11:20:00.000-07:00

TRY, TRY AGAIN

VW FAILS

L.E. Fant of Las Vegas concludes that insurance is , in fact, legalized banditry!!
L.E.’s home insurance is paid from an escrow account. The policy is due 6/27.
As previously mentioned L.E. found that his existing insurer was taking advantage of his good nature and was charging close to 3 times what another national company offered (for greater coverage).
L.E. faxed Lovitt & Touche, Inc., agent for Fidelity (and supposedly L.E. Fant), well before (on 6/9) the 6/27 renewal date and instructed them to not renew the policy and to refund any moneys received from L.E.’s escrow account. No response of any kind was received from Lovitt & Touche, Inc.
However, the policy was renewed(L.E. today received correspondence from his escrow holder to that effect and now his escrow account is underfunded because both his new insurer and old have been paid). Now further lengthy and probably frustrating communication is required to resolve the matter.
Yet again, the high handedness of corporations which superficially claim to serve us and our best interests is displayed in its hideous ugliness.
A conversation with a Lovitt and Touche, Inc. representative merely raised L.E. Fant’s already high blood pressure.

No apology or reasonable excuse was offered for the renewal which was performed by them and/or their principal directly against L.E.’s instructions. Merely a statement that a credit will be provided after a cancellation takes effect, and no timeline is offered for that to occur.
Needless to say, Lovitt and Touche, Inc. and vicariously Fidelity are on L.E. Fant of Las Vegas’s list of NEVER DO BUSINESS WITH THESE BUSINESSES AGAIN, together with Pizza Hut, Cox Cable, Roberto’s Tacos, Stratosphere’s Room at the Top, Curtis Briley (so-called realtor to avoid like the plague according to L.E.’s belief) and others who do not readily come to mind.
GOOD NEWS....
LAST EVENING…DEMOCRACY AT WORK IN LAS VEGAS!L.E. Fant of Las Vegas and wife met with some wonderful young folk who are collecting signatures for a petition to get Ralph Nader on the Nevada Ballot for President.
It was refreshing to speak with them. Their wisdom and devotion to the U.S., particularly to its ordinary people, should be encouraged and nurtured.
Should you meet these folk please thank them for their service to Nevada voters (regardless of your political persuasion) who, when the team is successful, will have actual choice to vote for an actual man who has, in L.E.’s less than humble opinion, done more good for this country than any living elected official. By being allowed to run he may be able to debate the main contenders (who will doubtless otherwise refuse to do so). Should that debate occur we shall all benefit.
Remember --when you sign the petition you are not changing your Voter Registration in any way, you are merely helping democracy have the effect that was anticipated by our founding fathers by providing choice other than enduring the jaded, entrenched two party system, each of which party has the same corporate taskmasters.
You may well make this country a better one by assisting in this effort and L.E. Fant of Las Vegas thanks you in anticipation.

LIFE WITHOUT THE TOMATO:
After the meeting L.E. and wife ate at Chipotle Mexican Grill. He partook of a Shredded (not pulled) pork burrito and Mrs. Fant a steak burrito. The steak was freshly cooked for each burrito and was succulent as was the pork carnitas.
Interestingly no tomato was available (as is the case in many restaurants at this time). The lack of tomato made for strange salsa indeed!
The huge burritos are, in L.E.’s opinion, good value at $6 or so. The particular restaurant offered beer also and L.E. enjoyed a chilled Corona with lime to maintain the Mexican ambiance of his meal.

VW BEETLE FAILS TO MEET EXPECTED (or HOPED FOR) CITY FUEL CONSUMPTION TARGET!!
Last evening the Beetle was filled with diesel. It took a little over 7 gallons which calculated to a mere

37 mpg for the week of city driving it endured.
L.E. had hoped to better 40 mpg for the city driving cycle. However, it should be noted that this past week required max AC each and every day for all trips and Mrs. Fant’s commute is through a construction zone which is stop/ start. Also we are yet to check tire pressures and other tasks which may improve the fuel consumption.

L.E. just returned from the DMV where he paid $760 to register the "economy car." He also collected a few signatures on the petition while at the DMV. Again showing he is capable of multi-tasking!

Las Vegas Premium Outlets, RV for sale, George W. Bush Catholic?

2008-06-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

L.E. Fant must dispose of his RV and boat (not used for past 5 years).
Las Vegas Premium Outlets (doesn't "outlet" negate "premium?".

GEORGE W. BUSH MAY TURN CATHOLIC?
That is the rumor since our President has had many one on one meetings with the Pope. Perhaps his likely very long confession may stymy the rumored change.
L.E. observes that the Catholics have endured Pope Julius II’s evil and lately pedophilic priests besmirching them, therefore, they will also endure this rumored burden with aplomb.

L.E. FANT OF LAS VEGAS’S POSSIBLE REAL ESTATE OPPORTUNITY FOR THIS WEEK!!
How about a new loft for $124,00 or an older apartment for even less? This and more is possible in the renaissance of the Roma district of Mexico City, Mexico.

HOW ABOUT A NICE WATCH?
If one missed out on purchasing one of L.E.’s friends watch collection in the past week or two perhaps this one may suit?
With the money saved when buying a home in Roma one may snap up a Harry Winston “Opus 8.” This whimsically styled masterpiece is only $430,000 and will doubtless make one’s Rolex wearing friends extremely envious (especially if one leaves the price tag on the watch when wearing it).
If one is leaving watches in the drawer as the cell phone (as discussed yesterday) tells your time, then a Vertu cell phone (apparently owned by Nokia) may be your answer. These luxury items sell for a mere $6,000 up to nearly $400,000 each.
L.E. Fant believes another opportunity exists-a liveried personal time teller/ alarm issuer (no more need for reading glasses to see that minuscule time display). This likely will cost less than the above-mentioned cell phones and will definitely make a statement and may be shown to be very “green.” [Copyright L.E. Fant of Las Vegas, 2008].

Likely opportunity for limited distressed artwork purchases.
It appears that after L.E. Fant made constructive (yet taken as disparaging) comments regarding certain artworks, the artist, in a fit of rage, smashed the pieces.
In an effort of appeasement, these smashed paintings will be offered as an expression of emotion and may be mounted as one desires.

Tomorrow more Las Vegas Businesses pilloried by L.E. Fant of Las Vegas!

$90 per hour jobs available!!, NZ Recession, Las Vegas Nursery lack of good faith, Las Vegas watch batteries cheap, Fathers' Day in Las Vegas.

2008-06-16T09:18:00.000-07:00

Click on any image to enlarge at your peril! The renovated El Cortez now appears a far nicer place to visit than L.E. remembers its jaded countenance. His last visit, with his brother in law, was soured by a particularly sour bartender who was well suited to its gloomy ambiance and L.E. has not revisited since.
Sign on Las Vegas Blvd. should you require a watch battery. It appears that since all cell phones have accurate time available few wear watches any longer other than for "dress to impress."
Another busload of tourists/ immigrants arrive in Las Vegas.

Fathers Day for Fant:
L.E. Received phone calls, cards and presents, indeed a lucky man.
He was exited to hear from his son in Australia and spoke with one of his twin grand daughters who are now doing well and making much noise. It is a relief that it now seems that repercussions of extremely premature births are mostly behind us.
L.E. Fant was so exited that he and Mrs. Fant went to the Las Vegas Baby Expo at Cashman Center to get information and free stuff for the twins. The ridiculously high $10.00 per person admission was waived for the Fants but they still had to pay a $3 parking charge in order to park their very fuel efficient German diesel powered car.
The show was disappointing and it offered little new. The most interesting item was a cloth contraption which one placed over the handle of a shopping cart and used its pockets to store baby stuff and retain the baby by some means. The hall was mostly filled with anxious photographers all claiming to provide exceptional memories.
The Fants entered a number of so-called lotteries to win all sorts of baby stuff and will doubtless be defending their privacy via the telephone when sales persons who gained the number via the entry ticket call with further offers.
As it was 106 degrees or more outside the couple of hours at the expo was enjoyed.
A phone call from their daughter in Reno rounded out the happy day. She has performed so well that her college is providing a substantial grant which will cover tuition costs for the rest of this year and leave an amount over, possibly for L.E.’s kidney fund?

STAR NURSERY INSINCERE?:
L.E. has for years purchased plants and garden/ landscape items at Star Nursery.
Saturday was the first time he has ever attempted to utilize its so-called one year guarantee. It turned out to be a harrowing experience for L.E.
He had planted (following directions) 7 Santa Cruz Pyracanthas (they have long thorns) along the front boundary of his modest home in order to discourage kids from kicking his gravel onto the road. Five of the plants died.
The first Star employee approached was helpful and asked if the Fants desired an exchange. The response was yes please and a manager, Christy, was called over. Christy spoke to the first employee who was observed to appear surprised when instructed to issue a credit. At this time the Fants were oblivious to the apparent evil plot of Christy.
The Fants took the papers provided and went outside to obtain five plants to replace those dead ones. They also picked up some fertilizer and special plating mix, together with a magnificent pith helmet for L.E. to wear when outside.
L.E. Fant, when approaching the checkout, considered the permutations Star (and particularly Christy) may use in order to attempt to cheat him should that be the intent. He concluded that the reason for issuing a credit opposed to an exchange was a perhaps a ploy to encourage L.E. Fant to pay for the replacement plants at their new price and only credit him with the price paid ($12.88 and $6.88 respectively).

That was indeed the case.

L.E. argued that he desired an even exchange as that was reasonable, expecting him to pay extra was unreasonable as had the dead plants been of proper quality no exchange would be necessary .

After much interaction with various clerks Christy reappeared and grudgingly and condescendingly offered a “one time only” replacement. This, of course, means that Star kept the receipt for the plants which is necessary to claim on their hollow guarantee. A further indication of Christy’s insincerity may perhaps be gained from her deliberate use of Spanish when instructing the register clerk on the transaction details in front of L.E. Fant.
The net result is that L.E. Fant may never use Star Nursery again. He believes that it should not offer a plant guarantee where the conditions of the guarantee are unreasonable as to be useless or unexplained and open to interpretation by avaricious managers of its branch stores. It should Either replace the plants without question or have no guarantee at all. Remove the ambiguity.
L.E. does not enjoy these tense interactions yet will institute and prosecute them at every occasion where his sensibilities and reason are offended by what he concludes are devious business practices such as described here.

L.E. will write Star Nursery complaining of their tactics.

NEW ZEALAND MAY BE FIRST TO GO!!
Today’s F.T tells that N.Z. may be the first so-called developed country to fall into recession!! Eat more Orange Roughy!!

TIRED OF LOW LAS VEGAS WAGES? MOVE TO THE PILBARA OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA AND WORK IN THE IRON ORE MINES.
Yes L.E. Fant is informed that an entry level cost control clerk at the mine-site is now paid $90 per hour with a 15% production/location bonus. Probably room and board is free though L.E. has no knowledge regarding that.

Las Vegas Beer, Las Vegas Motels, Las Vegas Politics.

2008-06-13T10:09:00.000-07:00

Good Food Here!! Recommended by L.E.
Another close to downtown Motel
A downtown motel adjacent to Fremont Experience. [Note sign "Your Future Starts Here"].

LAS VEGAS BEER DRINKERS:

As L.E. pointed out yesterday Miller and Coors, whilst advertising themselves as more American than apple pie, are actually owned by foreign interests.

As L.E. also noted yesterday, the iconic Chrysler building is likely to be purchased by an Arab sovereign fund.

The latest American icon likely to be taken over by foreign interests is BUDWEISER. A Belgium company (owner of Becks among others)is attempting to take over Bud in order to obtain a world market share of approximately 25%.

Does this matter? Should lawmakers step in to stop the sale?

LAS VEGAS MEANINGFUL POLITICAL COMMENT FOR SAD DEMOCRATS, JADED REPUBLICANS & THOSE OF US WHO HOPE FOR A BETTER UNITED STATES.

2008 Presidential Candidate Ralph Nader discusses a remark (regarding not running) made to him by a fellow alumnus at a recent Princeton reunion.

"I was at my Princeton reunion the other day, and a young alumnus came up to me - he was very kind - and he said "You know, I really like what you're doing - I like what you did - but please don't run."
I said "Do you realize what you are saying?"
And he said "Yes, I said please don't run."
I said "You're telling me not to use my First Amendment rights of speech, assembly, and petition inside the electoral arena. You're telling me to shut up. Are you aware of what you're saying?"
He said "I understand, I understand, I like what you're doing, but please don't run."
So I went through and I said "Well, would you tell those voters instead of trying to determine which one was worse between the Democrats and the Whigs, the two major parties in the 19th century, and instead cut out and voted for the Liberty Party, which was the anti-slavery party - would you say to those candidates, 'Don't run'?" And he sort of paused. And I said "How about the people who refused to go least-worst between the Republicans and Democrats on women's suffrage? Would you tell those candidates 'don't run'? What do you say to that?"
And he paused.
And I took it up to date and I said "Would you tell Buchanan not to run?"
And he said "I understand what you are saying, but please don't run."
And I said "You know, unwittingly, you are engaging in a politically bigoted statement. Because you can oppose, and you can support, any candidates you want. But when you are saying to someone 'don't run' you are saying to someone 'do not speak, do not petition, do not assemble inside the electoral arena.'"
Now I'm saying this because I'm sure you've had these conversations with people. Look at the word spoiler. Spoiler is a contemptuous word of political bigotry. They do not accuse George W. Bush of being the spoiler in 2000, and last I heard he got more votes than I did, vis-a-vis Al Gore. It's only the independent and third parties that are called spoilers.
And think of the hubris here - these two parties have spoiled our elections, they've spoiled our government, they've spoiled our politics - and to have the temerity to say to someone who wants to reform the process that they are spoilers - they have no sense of humor - I mean, how do you satire satire?" [EMPHASIS ADDED].

L.E. Fant of Las Vegas wishes all a pleasant weekend and may the price of gasoline lower itself by a Dollar or more.

Las Vegas Motels, Las Vegas free gas, Las Vegas Burritos.

2008-06-12T11:50:00.000-07:00

Another close to downtown rooming opportunity

for the savvy bargain seeker.

Only nice rooms are welcome here! No pets or people?

STOP PRESS!!Today Mrs. Fant won a week's free gasoline from a radio station called, from memory, the Jackal (a very apt name for such a station one may add). One may wonder whether she will use her win to obtain a week's worth of diesel or a week's worth of gasoline.

It is apparently a so-called "country" station which L.E. Fant of Las Vegas will never, and has never, listened to as he abhors so-called "country" noise (he refuses to classify it as music)with highest passion.

To L.E. Fant of Las Vegas the sound made by these irksome people is as irritating as when one scratches one's fingernail upon a chalkboard. If L.E. never hears another "country" so-called song-it will be far too soon!

It will, therefore, be no surprise to L.E.'s astute and superior readers that line-dancin', Ropin', attendin' rodeos, castrating baby bulls (or piglets for that matter), chewin', spittin' throwing 'shoes, wearing Wranglers, shirts with pseudo mother of pearl snap buttons or visitin' Sheplers, The Cowboy Emporium, Boot-Town or other similar stores all fall within L.E. Fant's least favorite pass times!

ARAB SOVEREIGN FUND MAY BUY ICONIC CHRYSLER BUILDING!! DO YOU CARE?

Abu Dhabi's wealth fund is in talks with the owner with intent to buy this New York icon (according to today's F.T.).

This is globalization which surpasses NAFTA etc. Already most of our beer producers are foreign owned (Coors, Miller and others).

STOCK MARKET:

Again lower on prediction of falling semi-conductor sales. Retail lower expectations and other indicators.

L.E. Fant would like to know why have shares in Chipotle Mexican Grill fallen from around $130 to the $80's when same store sales are increasing at above predictions and other indicators are positive? Should L.E. (and everyone who cares) eat more burritos to bolster the stock?

Las Vegas Motels, Las Vegas Nellis AFB, A10

2008-06-11T11:14:00.000-07:00

Can anyone interpret this writing?
Warthog A10 on display at Nellis AFB

View of downtown Las Vegas from Eastern/ Fremont

DOCTOR'S OFFICE CALLS L.E. FANT (AT LAST):

At last a call and an appointment. The appointment is not for over one week however, as apparently L.E.'s condition is not of great concern.

F.T. reports that: "The Donald" [Trump] plans to build a couple of golf courses and a mega resort near Aberdeen, Scotland. locals are not necessarily pleased as many enjoy their virgin landscapes as they now exist.

NEVADA POWER:

Today L.E. paid the first "high" bill of the season. This bill was over double that of the past few months' bills and is a harbinger of things to come as we enjoy our summer temperatures.

In a fit of green L.E. signed up for the Coolshare program which cycles off one's A/C during peak periods. The hope is to not overstress our capacity and avert brownouts. We shall see.

BARE ROOT ROSES AND THE 99 CENT ONLY STORE:

Yesterday evening L.E. Fant and wife were at their local 99 Cent Only Store where, as usual, they picked up many useless articles because they appeared to be a bargain. Such articles will strain the Fant's home storage availability until a clean out removes them.

L.E. amazed himself when he could not resist buying a small dry erase board with pen, which he knew he will never use, because it appeared great value and of great potential.

He did manage to resist buying a solar calculator which was designed to fit within a three ring binder and was guided away from the tempation of a Blue Bunny drumstick type icecream for a mere 59 cents.

However, there were available bare root rose plants for 99cents each. Unable to resist this blatently apparent bargain a substantial number were purchased.

In the light of a new day L.E. wonders where they may be utilized. His first thought of replacing dead Pyracanthas with roses now seems a bad idea (that idea was the justification for buying the roses).

Las Vegas Motels, Las Vegas Catholic Church, Las Vegas Downtown.

2008-06-10T09:47:00.000-07:00

Click on image to enlarge if you so desire. GET IT?
Las Vegas Open Air Motel -- a new concept in green living?

A busy view of busy Downtown Las Vegas.

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT:

Note the following is hearsay only and has not been substantiated by L.E. Fant of Las Vegas. Caveat Emptor.

"Click here: snopes.com: Best Buy Restock Fee
<http://www.snopes.com/politics/business/restock.asp>
>>
>>THEY JUST CANT GET ENOUGH CAN THEY ??
>>BEST BUY, MY FOOT
Normally, I would not share this with others, However, since this could happen to you or your friends , I decided to share it. If you purchase something from, Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, JC Penny, Sears etc. If you return the item with the receipt. They will give you your money back if you paid cash, or credit your account if paid by plastic.Well, I purchased a GPS for my car, a Tom Tom XL.S from 'Best Buy'. They have a policy that it must be returned within 14 days for a refund!
So after 4 days I returned it i n the original box with all the items in the box, with paper work and cords all wrapped in the plastic. Just as I received it, including the receipt.
I explained to the lady at the return desk I did like the way it could not find store names. The lady at the refund desk said, there is a 15% restock fee, for items returned. I said no one told me that. I said how much would that be. She said it goes by the price of the item. It will be $45.00 Dollars for you. I said, all your going to do is walk over and place it back on the self! Then charge me $45.00 of my money for restocking!! She said that's the store policy. I said if more people were aware of it they would not buy anything here! If I bought a $2000.00 computer or TV and returned it I would be charged $300.00 dollars restock fee!! She said yes, 15%.
I said OK, just give me my money minus the restock fee. She said, since the item is over 200.00 dollars, she cant give me my money back!!! Corporate has to and they will mail you a check in 7 to ten days.!! I said 'WHAT?!'It's my money!! I paid in cash! I want to buy a different brand..Now I have to wait 7 to 10 days. She said well, our policy is on the back of your receipt.
I said, do you read the front or back of your receipt? She said well, the front! I said so do I, I want to talk to the Manager!.
So the manager comes over, I explained everything to him, and he said, well, sir they should of told you about the policy when you got the item. I said, No one, has ever told me about the check refund or restock fee, when ever I bought items from computers to TVs from Best Buy. The only thing they ever discussed was the worthless extended warranty program. He said Well, I can give you corporate phone number.
I called corporate. The guy said, well, I'm not supposed to do this
but I can give you a 45.00 dollar gift card and you can use i t at BestBuy. I told him if I bought something and returned it, you would charge me a restock fee on the item and then send me a check for the remaining 3 dollars. You can keep your gift card, I'm never shopping in Best Buy ever again, and If I would of been smart, I would of charged the whole thing on my credit card! Then I would of canceled the transaction I would of gotten all my money back including your stupid Fees! He
didn't say a word!
I informed him that I was going to e-mail my friends and give them a heads up on this stores policy, as they don't tell you about all there little caveats
So please pass this on. It may save your friends from having a bad
experience of shopping at Best Buy."[sic].

Interestingly L.E.Fant has just concluded a billing dispute with a supplier which was resolved by L.E.'s credit card company after incorrect and damaged items were provided. It appears that using a credit card for transactions is a benefit when a dispute arises.

L.E. Fant just saved a bunch of money by changing insurers:

L.E.'s home owner insurance is due for renewal. The company, Fidelity, (L.E. believes that is a misnomer) that has enjoyed his business for the past five years offered a renewal for an amount which was close to double the original amount. L.E. Fant pondered whether this was a realistic charge as our real estate values are less now.

He obtained a quote from another company from a very patient and helpful agent Joe DeLuca. The price offered is close to one third of the renewal quote and has greater coverage amounts!!

This clearly indicates that one should obtain comparative quotes at the time of each renewal of insurances to be acting in one's best interests.

L.E. FANT OF LAS VEGAS AGAIN PROVIDES HIS SUPERIOR READERS WITH A REAL ESTATE OPPORTUNITY WHICH MAY (OR MAY NOT)BE TOO GOOD TO MISS!

Newport may indeed be a great opportunity for bargain hunters!

Terrace homes may be purchased for around $240,000, an apartment for under $200,00 or a detached house for under $500,000.

A little more may get one water views of the Bristol Channel at the River Severn Estuary, or a quaint home in the old docklands.

Of course this "Newport" is in Wales, U.K.

For further information:

Edward Ware Homes, 44 (0) 117 907 1200. www.edwardware.co.uk

THE VATICAN HAS NOT YET CONFIRMED OR DENIED THAT IT MADE THE OFFER TO L.E. FANT OF LAS VEGAS. WHO IS ANXIOUS TO GET HIS HANDS ON THE OFFERED ENDOWMENT.

STILL NO CALL REGARDING AN APPOINTMENT FOR THIS WEEK WITH L.E.'S DOCTOR FROM THE DOCTOR'S OFFICE.THIS IS EXTREMELY FRUSTRATING. L.E. HAS MADE FURTHER PHONE CALLS IN AN ATTEMPT TO REMEDY THE SITUATION.

SHOULD WE BUY AN IPHONE NOW THE COST IS LESS? OR DOES THE NOW GREATER MONTHLY SERVICE FEE NEGATE ANY SAVING OVER THE PRIOR MODEL?

Las Vegas Downtown, Las Vegas Folk, Las Vegas VW TDI

2008-06-09T10:08:00.000-07:00

Click on any image to enlarge in order to see important detail. This Las Vegas motel advertises rooms for a mere $155 per week including free phone and cable. It is within easy walking distance from such downtown landmarks as the recently renovated El Cortez and the Fremont Experience (and likely some unanticipated downtown experierences!!).
Perhaps a play on words-- This and the photo below just seemed to go together!!
See Above.
The Beetle TDI after its first week in Las Vegas.

HEALTH CARE PROVIDER FINALLY CALLS L.E. FANT:

Late Friday afternoon L.E.'s doctor called and discussed L.E. Fant's elevated blood pressure. He claims that the "upper number" is of little concern as the "lower number" remains within range.

He stated that his staff would call L.E. top set up an appointment for this week. L.E. awaits that call.

CATHOLIC CHURCH GEREROUSLY OFFERS HELP TO L.E. FANT AN ADMITTED HERETIC?

L.E. Fant received the following email claiming to be an offer from the Catholic Church [L.E. has redacted email addresses in order to protect his superior readers]:

> DNT> The Catholic Church Italy (http://www.) would like> to inform you that you have been picked by the board of trustees as one> of the final recipients for a cash Grant/Donation for your own> personal, educational, and business development. In the year 1901, they> started offering collection for the Sole objective of human growth,> educational and Community development. In conjuction with the ECOWAS, > UNO, and> the EU, We are giving out a yearly donation of US$650,000.00 each to> 100 lucky recipients each year, undermining your religion. Kindly> contact the Church Executive Secretary below for further information on> the donation.>> Exec Sec Amerigo Ampellio> Email: @live.com>> Please endeavour to quote your Qualification numbers> +(N-2.2.2,6.6.4.7, E-9.1 0.5.6)

Sadly he must conclude the email is precursor to a scam and highly unlikely to have originated from the Vatican or other holy sources.

L.E. has asked friends close (or way closer than is he) to the Pope to confirm or deny any such offer from the Catholic Church.

VW BEETLE TDI:

The first week of Beetling has proved a pleasure for the Fants (especially when at the fuel pump).

Jack A. Roo (who has gained 7 pounds in two weeks)enjoys its back compartment for comfortable travel and has ample windows for sightseeing.

The vehicle received its first Las Vegas diesel on Saturday and was topped of with the addition of 7.9 gallons (its tank holds 14.5).

That amount was consumed from Wickenburg AZ (just out of Phoenix)to Las Vegas, some sightseeing, travel to the Egg & I, travel to a movie theatre last Sunday when celebrating Mrs. Fant's birthday and a week of commuting by Mrs. Fant. While not exact, probably a total of at least 350 miles was travelled . This calculates to an average of approximately 44 mpg. L.E. believes this to be a commendable figure when one considers last week required A/C on for every trip and the poor car had a half tank of contaminated fuel left from its top off in NM.

The vehicle's trip meter is now set and an accurate consumption figure will be available shortly. L.E. looks forward to making a batch of bio diesel from used fryer oil.

When getting the Beetle smogged he discovered that the smog facility's owner has used discarded cooking oil in his pickup for the past four years and thouroughly reccommends the habit.

At last, when diesel Beetling, the Fants may look smug Prius drivers squarely in their eyes and display pity for their apparently misguided choice of, and extremely ugly mode of transport.

It may not be too late for Las Vegas. New Artist.

2008-06-06T11:30:00.000-07:00

Do not click on images to enlarge unless you desire to see larger images!

L.E. Fant of Las Vegas is helping a "starving local artist" achieve his dreams, L.E. Fant, therefore, provides the following:

First public display of Stephen Winter art is here and only with L.E. Fant of Las Vegas!!

Above are two of the first series of Winter's 2008 artworks which are soon to be auctioned on E Bay.

Winter's color palette is designed to evoke emotion. Color is all in his work.

L.E. Fant's superior readers may be first to own one of these paintings as they shall be first to be apprised of when the sale will occur!

POLITICAL MESSAGE (again), Lesser of two evils is not a sound voting strategy!

How do you get people to vote against their own self interest?
That's the trick!
One way is to make people believe in a dream.
That's what all of the mainstream politicians are doing - feeding that dream.
Obama is feeding a dream - a dream of change and renewal.
He's feeding a dream that the conditions that surround us - Iraq, the economy, the racial divide, the class divide in this country - that they are magically going to go away by voting for this centrist Democrat.
That is nonsense, of course.
Obama is not proposing any structural changes.
McCain is feeding us the dream, the fantasy of power and control.
That somehow the military might of the U.S. will prevail across the globe.
These are fantasies that are being fed by the politicians.
They are not so much lies, as delusions.
But we will have brought it on ourselves by supporting these politicians.
By ignoring any candidate or any ideas that might conflict with those dreams.
The Obama moment is a feel good moment.
It makes us feel good.
But the programs Obama is proposing - up and down and all around - are the same centrist Democratic positions.
The same people are going to be running the show.
All of the corporations are rapidly switching their contributions to the Democrats.
These are the words of the American novelist Russell Banks.

Shift the power from the few to the many.
Free our government of corporate domination.
Restore the sovereignty of an engaged people.
Don't fall for the trick.

Shift the power.
Feed the living, breathing people-powered alternative.

http://www.votenader.org/

Have a pleasant and safe weekend all you superior readers.

STILL NO RETURN CALL FROM HEALTH CARE PROVIDER FOR L.E. (since Tuesday) with advice regarding possibly dangerously elevated blood pressure.

This is extremely tiresome and vexating for L.E.

Panda in Las Vegas?

2008-06-05T11:01:00.000-07:00

Do not under any circumstances click on this image to enlarge it! PANDA IN LAS VEGAS? No Panda in Cornwall, U.K. However, a diesel version of this car gets 70 mpg and looks cute doing so.

TIME FOR CHANGE? [Borrowed from Obama].

Premium gasoline is now fast approaching $5.00 per gallon (and do not forget that we are further cheated as our “gallon” is smaller than the so-called “Imperial gallon” used by most other non-metricated countries.
An overwhelming majority of L.E.’s superior poll respondents believe that we should have available cars with 70 mpg capabilities as does Europe.
These cars are not necessarily ugly. In Europe one may buy a Mini diesel which manages around 70 mpg and looks pretty cool whilst doing so. Also modern diesel engines are quiet and powerful, unlike older versions. In Europe the Fants rented a Fiat Panda which was a delight to drive and looked modern. There is a diesel version of that car which does-yes you guessed it-70 mpg. A new VW model recently travelled 20,000 miles around the world averaging 93 mpg. Consider how these figures would affect your monthly expenditures.

www.automotive.com/gas-prices

HEALTH CARE PROVIDER'S LACK OF TIMELY RESPONSE UNACCEPTABLE:

This is the third day without a return call from L.E. Fant’s health care provider regarding his elevated blood pressure. Should he assume that the figures he provided are no cause for alarm or may he assume they don’t care?
As the systolic figure is approximately 50% from its norm, and L.E. has some kidney problems he believes this matter is in urgent need of attention and will leave yet another phone message on the doctor’s voicemail hoping for a response with remedy before permanent harm occurs.

REVISITED OLD FRIEND:

Last evening L.E. Fant revisited his L.E. Fant of Las Vegas’s Very Easy yet Extremely Tasty Las Vegas Style Chicken Piccata for Two (Less than 30 minutes from start to eating). He reproduces the recipe for those just joining us and for those who needed a reminder:
Ingredients:
One skinless, boneless chicken breast ½ cup or so of flour, two Tbs capers, ¼ cup lemon juice, 3 Tbs butter, 3 Tbs olive oil, parsley (chopped) for garnish, 1/3 cup chicken stock (if out substitute with water), salt and pepper.

Method:
Butterfly (slice its thickness in half) the chicken breast and cut into two pieces.
Season lightly with salt and pepper (both sides) and dredge in flour.
In a skillet over low medium heat melt 2 Tbs butter and 3 Tbs olive oil. When sizzling place chicken breast in skillet. Cook three minutes, until lightly brown and turn over. Cook a further three minutes and remove from pan.
Add lemon juice, stock and capers to the skillet and bring to boil. Scrape bits from bottom of pan for flavor. Return chicken to pan and gently simmer for five minutes.
Plate chicken with vegetables of choice (maybe mashed spuds and a green or spaghetti squash, or rice, or egg noodles…).
Add remaining butter to sauce and stir in with fork. Pour over chicken and garnish with the chopped parsley.

POLITICS AS USUAL:
How about an Obama/ McCain ticket? Or for Republicans a McCain/ Obama ticket? Then we have both “the experience” and youth mix in our executive branch.
It seems that both contenders are now getting very close to lobby groups which they believe they must cultivate in order to get the necessary votes to succeed. We may well ponder that our best interests may not be served well by those alliances.
However, it seems that the duopolistic, corporate, special interest groups style of so-called government is to prevail in our U.S.. L.E. believes that we may see more clearly where we are headed should we merely cast votes for Texaco or Wal Mart or G.E. or… and let the winning corporation install its chosen executive branch.

Yesterday it was pointed out that the Westminster system in the U.K allows a general election cycle to occur in five weeks. L.E. Fant must assume that the cost to its taxpayers for such an election is likely to be far less than is the cost to us of our style election.

http://www.votenader.org/

Another Day in Las Vegas....Antigua or Parump?

2008-06-04T13:05:00.000-07:00

Do not click on images to enlarge. Arrivals
Construction
New York, New York

More Real Estate Opportunity for astute, superior readers of L.E. Fant of Las Vegas:

Antigua offers one or two bedroom apartments on a sun drenched island (and possibly access to Eric Clapton's Crossroads Rehab. facility)for around $400,000 should you desire a change of pace.

www.tradewindrealty.com

Is Parump in Nevada? Does it really exist in the minds of Gentlefolk?

A friend of L.E. Fant is contemplating moving to Parump (which L.E. believes is north of Las Vegas and a blight upon Nevada's landscape).

L.E. suggested that his friend take a drive to reconnoitre before any further contemplation of such a, likely ill fated, move.

The so-called justification for such a move is that there are many large sized lots available in the area at inexpensive prices. L.E. Fant recalls the maxim of the smooth tongued flim-flam, sometimes Hummer driving, sellers of land which is not theirs: "Location, Location, Location."

In L.E.'s opinion this may be easily construed as "DO NOT BUY LAND WHERE NO-ONE WITH REASONABLE MENTAL FACULTIES WANTS TO LIVE." Parump is such a place indeed.

Its main attractions appear to be availability of unseasonal fireworks, brothels, the apparent encouragement by township fathers of the use of old, mostly orange with race track insignias, ugly, broken motor vehicles as landscape decoration for the seemingly endless lots with trailer homes (some with even less attractive "additions") perched upon and scattered throughout the otherwise barren landscape.

Of course we should not forget that it is home to "black helicopter" fanatical broadcaster Art Bell who apparently fits well with the community.

All these are valid reasons, in L.E.'s opinion, to avoid Parump as one would attempt to avoid the Black Death, stroke, heart attack or any cancer.

There is still land available in Alaska!!!

L.E. Fant's Blood Pressure:

Is still elevated at 167/72 this morning. He is now imagining symptoms.

Of course his call and correspondence to his health care provider of yesterday remains unanswered. Perhaps he should go to an ER?

Las Vegas Hotels, Las Vegas Breakfast, Las Vegas gas prices.

2008-06-03T11:13:00.000-07:00

Click on images to enlarge should you desire to view larger images, otherwise do not. This image may have been provided previously-so treat it as a re-run.
Maybe this one too....
The ex-home of Sir Galahad's (sorely missed) restaurant.

Errata:

L.E. Fant forgot to mention that he and Mrs. Fant breakfasted at the Egg and I (located on Sahara) last Sunday.

L.E. has always had a good meal at this Las Vegas establishment which has been in existence for twenty years or more.

The restaurant is clean as is its food.The staff are pleasant and the coffee good.

The Fants ate respectively, Blueberry French toast with cream and Pork carnitas. L.E. enjoyed the Pork carnitas which was a spicy pulled pork and sauce on a tortilla with a sunny side up egg. He did not regret his decision to not get the Eggs Benedict which was his original choice. The French toast overwhelmed Mrs. Fant who could not manage to entirely consume the portion.[Around $20 for all].

The Fants arrived early (for a Sunday) at 8:00 a.m.and were immediately seated and provided coffee and water in a not crowded restaurant. This made for a relaxing breakfast and time for peaceful conversation.

POOR POPCORN IS PROVIDED BY AVARICIOUS MOVIE THEATRE CONCESSION:

Prior to watching the Sex and the City movie L.E. and wife purchased iced lattes and popcorn from the concession stand. The popcorn (very expensive popcorn)was merely lukewarm and tasted extremely unpleasant-so much so that it was left unconsumed.

Motto here is to taste the product at the time of purchase to make exchange/refund/throwing it at the vendor an easier task.

UGLY CIVILIAN HUMMER [FIRM FAVORITE OF THE OSTENTATIOUS, PARASITICAL REAL ESTATE SELLER] MAY BE EXTINCT:

L.E. Fant is informed that G.M is closing three plants and possibly discontinuing the Hummer.

The closings are of plants which manufacture trucks and SUVs which are suffering poor sales at this time.

As for closing the Hummer line, L.E. could care less as he considers these (civilian version)vehicles absolutely tasteless, mechanically inept and, therefore, suited only for the more ostentatious, likely parasitical, real estate sales person who finds them a suitable accessory to their trade.

BLOOD PRESSURE:

Today L.E.'s blood pressure is way elevated [175/80 whereas it is usually 120/78]. He wonders whether this is due to a recent medication change and is anxiously awaiting a return call from his health care provider's office to discuss the matter.

L.E. must now close as Jack.A. Roo is demanding attention.

L.E. Fant of Las Vegas strikes first blow against BIG OIL!!!, L.E. Fant sees Sex in the City movie!!

2008-06-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

Click on images or not. L.E. Fant strikes his first blow against BIG OIL! (See below)
The long and rarely winding but extremely boring road!

This picture taken just prior to BIG OIL's apparent first attempt to thwart L.E. Fant's plans!

More road-so you may appreciate L.E.'s boredom when driving it for 1500 miles or more.

ROAD TRIP:

Last week L.E. "won" an E Bay auction for a diesel powered VW Bug.

L.E. had studied the specifications of said vehicles and concluded that they were perhaps a better solution for his family than a hybrid. This because 42 mpg City and 49 mpg highway (old EPA figures) appear to match or better the figures of a Prius (or Honda Civic)and the Prius is a very, very ugly car in L.E.'s opinion and in the opinion of she who must be obeyed, whereas the Bug is very, very cute.

A further attraction is that if one is industrious (and desires to thwart BIG OIL's plans to take all of our money) it is entirely possible to make one's own fuel from waste vegetable frying oil collected from restaurants. This is the blow one may make against BIG OIL, together with the lesser use of its products.

One drawback to L.E.'s plan was that the car he won was in Houston, Texas, over 1,500 miles from Las Vegas.

An early morning $400 flight (maybe too early for the Taxicab Authority goons) got L.E. to Houston Hobby airport by 12:45 local time. As his wife upgraded his ticket he was first on board and obtained the prized front seat with legroom. He settled back and drafted some boring correspondence regarding his HOA and enjoyed (yes perhaps a little early for some) a complimentary Bloody Mary during the flight.

Upon arrival in Houston he called the seller of the VW to find that his wife was about to go into labor with their first child. This meant L.E. waited at the airport for a couple of hours waiting for the seller.

After Sam the seller eventually arrived it was only a short time before money was exchanged for title and L.E. headed off into Houston' rush hour traffic to begin his journey home to Las Vegas.

What appeared easy when planning the trip became a nightmare when L.E.'s GPS provided different directions than the small scale map provided by Mrs. Fant via Yahoo Maps. L.E. made this discovery when through a spaghetti bowl interchange with his GPS bleating at him to exit seemingly north instead of west which appeared logical to him. When an hour or so later he re-passed some truckers which had gone the way demanded by the GPS L.E. realized that perhaps it knew better on that occasion.

However, after rapid decision making based on hunches L.E. eventually found calmer traffic and the "10 West" again. His wife had booked a room at a Rodeside Inn at a town called Junction, TX where L.E. arrived at around 9:30 local time.

When L.E. arose the next morning he realized that the driving task before him was immense as he still had over 1,300 miles to go before reaching Las Vegas where it was Mrs. Fant's birthday in a few scant hours.

Topping off the tank with fuel showed that L.E. had achieved around 44 mpg so far (with A/C on and mostly 70 mph). This was encouraging.

L.E. set off and noted that the road signs indicated that El Paso was nearly 400 miles away.

Sorry to you Texans but L.E. must note that he found not one reason to take a photograph of any of the monotonous, scrubby, unremarkable other than for its lack of any scenic significance, vistas he encountered through Texas. The views were the eye's boring equivalent of the mouth's granola.

Next, BIG OIL apparently attempts to thwart L.E.'s plans.

L.E. fuelled up at the first stop into New Mexico at a Texaco station. As he fuelled he did not realize the significance of what he thought to be water leaking from the connections of the hose and nozzle. It turned out that the fuel he purchased was contaminated.

L.E. Fant also noticed, when fuelling up, that the temporary license plate had blown off the VW leaving it naked of any I.D. and now likely cop bait.

As the only food available at the Texaco was convenience store food L.E. drove a few miles on and stopped at McDonalds where he consumed a grilled chicken on wheat sandwich.

When re-entering the interstate L.E. realized that the VW was way, way down on power. His stomach had that sinking feeling as he pondered how much a tow to wherever was going to cost.

He eventually managed to nurse the car up to 55 mph or so on the level and 30mph on inclines(despite the limit of 75 or 80 mph) and attempted to (like NASCAR drivers) draft behind big rigs when possible [that really worked-it got another 10 mph or so and allowed use of the A/C which was now off to conserve power]. Most big rig drivers attempted to stop L.E. from doing so and hit their brakes or swerved across lanes in their efforts to thwart L.E. from drafting behind their rigs, which made the NASCAR analogy even more poignant.

500 long miles later L.E. topped the tank with fuel [and gasped down a 99 cent hotdog which cost him $3.00] which apparently was o.k. as the car now almost instantly regained its power and was again capable of greater speeds, use of the A/C and cruise control[that was a relief as no A/C when outside temps were in the high 90's and occasionally 100 was not enjoyable].

L.E. finally crossed the dam into Las Vegas (luckily the police at the checkpoint did not comment upon the lack of plates on the VW, L.E. guesses that terrorists probably don't drive such cute cars) on the 93 and made it home 1/2 hour into his wife's birthday at 12:30 am after a very long day of driving.

It appears that the VW achieved approximately 49 mpg for the last leg from Phoenix [with A/C on and some mountain climbing].

A very sad corollary to this purchase is that L.E. has agreed (after ultimatum from she who must be obeyed) to dispose of his beloved Mercedes coupe (and Moto Guzzi and Vespas) to make room for the VW.

MOVIE REVIEW:

Part of the birthday celebration included attending the movie Sex and the City.

L.E. Fant has no doubt that most women who attended enjoyed the movie (judging from the applause and box office returns).

To the cynical L.E. it was, at best, extremely predictable. He will refrain from providing you with the touchy feely ending so you may suffer as did he-or if female rejoice.

Las Vegas Red Rock Casino, DIGITAL DEVIL CONTINUES TO HARRASS L.E. FANT.

2008-05-28T09:07:00.001-07:00

Click on images to enlarge should you desire. DECENT SUNDAY CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH IN DELIGHTFUL SETTING [See below].
Red Rock is at the NW edge of our City.
Some were in the pool.

ONGOING EXTREMELY SAD SAGA OF L.E. FANT'S INTERACTION WITH THE DIGITAL DEVIL AND ITS MINIONS:

A minion of the Digital Devil eventually replied to L.E.’s question posed 5/23/08.

L.E.'s questions:

“Customer Inquiry: To: The Vice President, Cox Communications Customer Service. Sir or Madam: Today I paid $67.65 which amount I was told is my account balance by a Cox rep. However, online and by phone automated account info.my balance is/was shown as $42.67 (see below). Last month I received a disconnection notice because I paid the amount showing as my balance yet was forced to pay an additional amount when I called to ask why I received the notice.
What is going on? My life is complicated enough without having to deal with Cox errors on a monthly basis(which you usually will not admit).

"Statement Current balance* $42.67 Payment status Cable & Internet 001-XXXXXXXX Payment amount $67.65 Completed Transaction ID: 16XXXXX."

I have a screen shot of the billing screen should you doubt that the above is an actual copy of your information. I will gladly fax it or email it to you. I look forward to your candid and prompt response together with details regarding how you have fixed this problem so that I may pay my account using the online payment (preferred by you-yet disastrous for me) without further problem or inconvenience."

L.E asked why in two consecutive months his account balance both online and by automated phone were less than the “actual balance” (only revealed to L.E. when he spoke with a so-called live representative) causing much irritation and issuance of a “disconnect notice.”

The Digital Devil’s response (see below) is, in L.E. Fant’s opinion, meaningless, condescending, arrogant and insensitive drivel which completely and utterly fails to even attempt to respond to L.E.’s serious questions in any way and unfortunately is the type of reply expected by L.E. Fant from this Las Vegas corporate monopoly which insultingly advertises itself as being “your friend in the digital age.” L.E. Fant believes nothing is further from the truth than its apparently insincere statement. As one may see from the reply the Digital Devil even change L.E.’s password causing L.E. to find another (no joy to find a usable one which one is able to remember).

Its Meaningless and Insensitive Response follows:
“After reviewing your account, our records indicate that your account is current and paid up to date. In order to allow us to research this matter, a temporary password "passXXXord" was installed to test the account.”

L.E. Fant shall keep you apprised of the back and forth between him, the Digital Devil and its henchpersons.

BETTER NEWS,
RED ROCK CASINO DINING EXPERIENCE:
Nice setting, very pleasant design elements. Smells smoke free and is clean.
L.E. and wife ate Sunday champagne brunch at the Red Rock and found the experience enjoyable.

The cost is a reasonable $20 per head and the selection of foodstuffs varied. There are (from memory) stations for Sushi, Mexican, Asian, American, Roast meats, shrimp, omelets, smoked salmon, salad selections and a desert station.
L.E. ate a little sushi and 3 or 4 shrimp followed by 3 pork ribs from the Asian section together with a small amount of Pad Thai. He consumed a couple of glasses of champagne and a cup of coffee.
She who must be obeyed ate a little sushi then went for the prime rib and roast pork loin. The prime rib looked impressive and apparently tasted so. The pork loin looked tasty but was a little dry when eating. Both Fants ate a little smoked salmon which was good.

The desert station was, however, a disappointment. The gelato was watery, the pastries of poor standard and selection limited. So-called Key lime tarts was left uneaten by both as they had nasty crusty imitation cream toppings and poor quality fillings.

Overall the experience was a good one and L.E. Fant and wife may return. One may desire, yet probably not expect high quality pastries in a buffet setting. Also it should be noted that the quality and presentation of other than the deserts was, in L.E.’s opinion better than average for Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Dining, Las Vegas Gas Prices, New Dog, Toyota Yaris Road Test.

2008-05-27T07:33:00.000-07:00

Please click on images to enlarge. Known to some as Jack A. Roo this cream Chow Chow has taken up residence with L.E. Fant and wife. He is 12 weeks of age and a handful.
Jack taking a break from chewing.
Remember the good old days?

L.E. Fant's desperate attempt to remove himself from the clutches of "Big Oil" fails!

L.E. Fant drove to Los Angeles last Friday, where he hoped to buy a CNG/ gasoline powered vehicle.

He failed. The vehicles he had his eye on were Chevrolet Cavalier Bi-fuel ex-government cars. There were 6 of them 2001-2003 year models with 58,000-80,000 miles on their odometers.

As the Cavalier is, in L.E.'s opinion, not an exceptional vehicle in any respect L.E. believes that $6,500 was the most he should pay for one (a regular gasoline powered Cavalier of this age can be obtained for as little as $1,500).

L.E. was chagrined to find the first 2001(usually least expensive) Cavalier sold for $10,500. Then the next sold for the same amount. L.E. left the auction savings intact.

Apparently our neighbors from Utah are the reason for such high purchase prices for these cars. They can apparently buy CNG for 70 or 80 cents a gallon whereas we must pay $2.07 or so. Also they may be able to get a $4,000 state tax credit.

Interestingly (to some) is that if one deducts the $4,000 tax credit from the sales price, the remaining amount is identical to L.E. Fant's price estimate of the car's worth.

That leaves a $24,000 Honda CNG (not bi-fuel)being the remaining option. The range of that car is limited to around 150 miles which makes it unattractive to L.E.

L.E. has listened to a friend who has made some research into bio-diesel and will make his knowledge available to you soon.

BARGAINS?

There were, in L.E.'s opinion, some decent buys at the auction:

Two 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Classic, 4 cyl cars with approximately 6,000 (yes not 60,000)made $6,400.

A 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe with 76,000 miles made $7,300 and a couple of 2005 Dodge Caravans with V6 motors and 75,000 miles sold at $4,400 or so.

L.E. Fant Road Tests Toyota Yaris-so you don't have to:

L.E. Fant made an extremely daring run to Los Angeles and back to Las Vegas on Friday, through a fierce storm, in order to bring you the following report:

In order to kill two birds with one stone, or as we now say “multi-task,” L.E. performed a subjective road test evaluation of a new (one mile on the odometer) Toyota Yaris 4 door, automatic, sedan during the trip.

L.E.’s wife’s first comment regarding the Yaris was that it looked “very cute.” It, as is the modern way of such small cars, has its instruments placed in the center of the dashboard. Perhaps this is for styling reasons-or perhaps to make for easier manufacturing when producing left hand and right hand drive vehicles. Either way this placement requires one to look across the dashboard when checking the instruments, which appears, to L.E. less safe than if the gauges are directly in front of the driver as was the norm for many years. However, it is an aid to those of us who enjoy our privileges as “back seat drivers.”
Comfort of the little car is reasonable. When L.E.’s wife first sat on its front seat she remarked that it was very comfortable. However, after 50 miles of driving L.E. noticed that she was often changing her position on the seat by squirming around. L.E. concluded that perhaps the level of comfort she first noticed was now severely diminished. L.E. had problems after 100 miles or so with a nerve pain running down his left leg. Perhaps the lack of thigh support from the “short” seats was its cause?
The cabin noise level of the Yaris, in L.E.’s opinion, was too high. Road noise was very apparent and one has to noticeably raise one’s speaking level to converse when the car is in motion. L.E’s wife raves over the placement of the Starbucks cup holders on either side of its dash, which in the opinion of many will doubtless make up for other shortcomings.
Having said that, the Yaris, overall, appears no worse than its competition and maybe better than some other small cars.
Its multi-speed windshield wipers performed very well during the storm we drove through and no water leaked into its cabin.
The little car is very maneuverable and feels safe when making “high G” maneuvers. Its brakes are responsive and add to its ability to safely maneuver through traffic. Sever wind gusts are noticed, yet relatively easily compensated for.
For example this little Yaris’s progress apparently infuriated the drivers of a Mercedes R350, a Mercedes S55, a Dodge Kaliber and sundry Prius’s (what a hideous looking car that Kaliber is?) and the drivers a red and a blue Mustang GT convertible who all attempted to pass or re-pass the little Yaris as it progressed from L.A. to L.V. Let it be noted that the maneuverability of the Yaris proved adequate for its task and it remained leader for well over 100 miles of cut and thrust due in part also to the fearless driving techniques of Mrs. Fant. Only as we were close to Blue Diamond did the S55 and two GT Mustangs take the lead-and then only because they exceeded 100 MPH and paid no heed of traffic conditions (or speed limits).
The (non scientifically tested) top speed of the Yaris appears to be 100 MPH. Its fuel economy appears to be good also at around 35 mpg.

TOMORROW:

L.E. Fant shall bring you his opinion of the Red Rock Casino Sunday brunch.

DIGITAL DEVILS HAVE MADE NO RESPONSE TO L.E. FANT'S COMPLAINT!!

Las Vegas Stratosphere may be seen for miles. Eat meat in Las Vegas?

2008-05-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

This tower may be seen for miles around Las Vegas.
Certainly not the dream king of L.E. Fant.

L.E. Fant is on a mission today and will provide an account of his mission shortly. It is regarding fuel saving.

EAT MEAT?

The Daily Green reports that yesterday the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert for 808 pounds of ground beef products produced at Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., of Lexington, NE.

In addition to this alert, Cecina Los Amigos, a Carson, CA, firm, is voluntarily recalling approximately 290 pounds of pork blood sausages that may be contaminated with Listeria, according to the USDA.

A few months ago the nation witnessed the largest beef recall in its history that was the result of the Humane Society's secret videotapes of workers at a California meat plant prodding and fork-lifting downer cattle — cattle that are too weak or sick to stand — into the slaughterhouse.
Agriculture secretary Ed Schafer said that his department wants to ban all downer cattle from the slaughterhouse to boost public confidence in the safety of the nation's food supply, according to an article in the Washington Post. However, he will find it extremely difficult, if not impossible to boost L.E. Fant's confidence regarding the safety of our food supply.

Rules state that while downer cattle must be kept out of the food supply, an exception exists that allows a government veterinarian to approve for slaughter an animal that passed an initial inspection, but then goes down before reaching the "knock box," according to the article, so long as a second inspection finds that animal to have an acute injury rather than an illness.

The USDA magnanimously plans to eliminate this exception (why has it taken so long? Perhaps public awareness?).

Senator Herb Kohl of the Senate Appropriations agriculture subcommittee was quoted in the article: "A strictly enforceable downer ban will eliminate confusion and move the ball forward on food safety and humane standards, while restoring consumer faith in a vital American sector." L.E. believes that senator to be, at best, an optimist and at worst a shill for the meat industry which is controlled by a scant few mega corporations whose agenda is likely placing profitability before our safety (remember Fast Food Nation?).

DIGITAL DEVILS STRIKE AGAIN!!!

2008-05-22T10:57:00.001-07:00

DIGITAL DEVILS ATTACK L.E. FANT AGAIN!!Today L.E. Fant is an angry man, actually an extremely angry man.

Yet again (see previous posts) C*X C**ble, hereafter named by L.E. as the "Digital Devil", has caused him great suffering and anguish because of its hideous, unwarranted and despicable attitude.

One may recall L.E. Fant posting that last month he received a NOTICE OF SUSPENSION AND DISCONNECTION due to the ineptitude of the Digital Devil and its spawn. Much fruitless time was spent discussing the situation with a condescending (apparently trained to be so) representative of the mega-monopoly.

This month L.E. is due to pay the Digital Devil's bill today. He decided, that it would be prudent to speak with a representative prior to paying the amount which its online accounting and phone account inquiry services state as being L.E.’s “account balance.”

When L.E. called he first was told, after entering various check passwords, by an automated digital voice system that his account balance is, in fact, the same amount that the Digital Devil's web page displayed-$42.67.

L.E. still required confirmation from a human representative of the Digital Devil so he waited online (meanwhile, ironically, suffering many invitations that he should pay online as waiting for a human would take considerable time).

L.E. Fant, not convinced that he should do as the Digital Devil implored him to do and patiently waited and was eventually connected to yet another (as he expected) condescending representative of the Digital Devil.

When requested to confirm L.E. Fant’s account balance which was now due and payable the representative stated that $67.65 was due. L.E. asked why the phone account information and the online account information differed as they stated that $42.67 was due, not $67.65.

The Digital Devil’s representative took a few minutes to consult with her supervisor and then responded that her information was correct and that L.E. should pay the $67.65 and later the Digital Devil’s cohorts would perhaps provide explanation of why the phone account information and the online information differed from the actual balance (an amount apparently only privy to the Digital Devil’s representatives not its customers).

L.E. argued that why should he believe that $67.65 is an accurate amount as two sources of information provided by the Digital Devil indicate otherwise and reflect an account balance of only $42.67. The response was that as L.E.’s monthly service is charged at $67.65 that must mean that amount is correct. L.E. continued his argument and offered that as he changed his service, removing Internet access and some premium channels perhaps these credits reflect that $42.67 is correct.

This argument was not accepted by the Digital Devil’s representative who stated that as L.E. chose not to believe her accounting there was no more she could do.

L.E. Fant suggested that perhaps there is more she could do as a so-called customer service representative of the Digital Devil-accept payment of the amount which is stated as L.E.’s account balance by the Devil’s phone account system and online payment service, without penalty, and later provide written explanation regarding any further amounts claimed to be due. L.E. would then review the documentation and make additional payment if the documentation substantiated the Digital Devil’s claim.

As the representative continued to insist that L.E. pay the amount she claimed to be accurate or be in default, L.E. terminated the conversation.

One may easily see from the copy of the online payment system account balance that amount is $42.67, not $67.65. L.E. believes that should the Digital Devil and its disciples truly believe its propaganda of being our friend in the digital age, or meaning of its salutation “Valued Customer” it should accept and confirm its obvious error (either way there is clearly an error) and appease its “valued customer.” Instead, as expected and previously demonstrated, high handed condescension is the order of the day.

L.E. endorses the quotations of past Presidents who feared the oppression of large corporations and L.E. despises monopolistic corporations such as the Digital Devil. He is extremely saddened that we now accept this type of corporate behavior as the norm.

The citizens of the United States must control the mighty commercial forces which they themselves called into being.- Theodore Roosevelt

REAL ESTATE BARGAINS FOR LAS VEGAS RESIDENTS? LAS VEGAS MINI-ORCHARD, LAS VEGAS GAS PRICES AGAIN.

2008-05-21T11:02:00.000-07:00

Please choose whether to click on images to enlarge (or as a friend prefers "extend") or not. This image was taken at L.E. Fant's Las Vegas mini-orchard and shows ripening peaches (L.E. Fant's favorite fruit) together with netting which may protect the fruit from marauding birds. L.E. has selfishly enjoyed these fruits over the past four years and delights in the sweet juicy taste and texture of a freshly picked, tree ripened peach such as he hopes this year's crop will provide.

Image of Sago Palm which in one day last week produced these shoots of new fronds. The palm was severely cut back last fall as it encroached upon L.E. Fant's back door as its three year growth was not anticipated.

Strato-Plaza or Plaza-Sphere?

REAL ESTATE BARGAINS for LAS VEGAS RESIDENTS? L.E Fant again attempts to help his fellow Las Vegas residents by providing timely information!! [which is provided as a community service by the L.E. Fant organization-no endorsement is implied-your results may vary-caveat emptor].

Or “Charm on the Cheap” as an F.T. correspondent put it last weekend.

Yes Las Vegas property owners even though your property has likely devalued 50% or so over the past couple of years, L.E. Fant has discovered an opportunity for you which may recoup your losses!!

That opportunity apparently may exist in the Villa Crespo district of Buenos Aires, Argentina where one or two bedroom apartments may be purchased for $47,000-$52,000 for new development and somewhat less for used.
Buenos Aires real estate prices are expected to rise 30% this year so maybe us Las Vegas folks may hedge our losses here by investing in Argentina?

Should you desire to investigate further: Real Estate agent Shenk Inmobillaria may be contacted on +54 11 4777 2222 or at http://www.shenk.com.ar/

LAS VEGAS GAS PRICES (AGAIN):
Oil futures contracts reach all time highs yesterday. This likely means more pain at our gas pumps.
As L.E. has discussed alternative fuel vehicles may make sense to many under these conditions. Last evening L.E. Fant perused ads for such vehicles as the Toyota Prius. He found many ads where 2007 or 2008 vehicles were being offered for $55,000 or so. As the MSRP is approximately $25,000 one wonders whether buyers exist for $55,000 Prius’s. Many gallons of gas may be purchased with the $30,000 premium.

Chrysler clearly must believe that we are not daunted by record gas prices as it just released a new model of its Dodge Challenger muscle car. L.E. wonders whether many will take advantage of its $2.99 gas offer which provides a guarantee of $2.99 per gallon gas for 12,000 miles per year for three years (apparently with some restrictions) when one buys certain models from its lineup.
Let’s assume gas will average $4.50 per gallon over the next three years. One may, therefore, save say $1.50 for each if accepting Chrysler’s offer. Further assume that one will average 15 mpg then one will use 12,000/15=800 gallons per year or 2400 gallons in the three year period. This is a probable maximum $3,600 saving over the three years. L.E is skeptical regarding whether this sum will make up for the probability of greater than average vehicle depreciation which, in L.E.'s opinion, Chrysler products have historically enjoyed. Again-no free lunch for us Las Vegas drivers.

L.E. Fant regrets not buying a 50mpg plus Honda Insight when they were almost reasonably priced. Like the Prius they are enjoying great demand and skyrocketing prices.

L.E. still believes the so-called Smart car does not make sense as it merely returns EPA 33 mpg City. Whilst that is a reasonable figure such a diminutive two seat vehicle should do better in L.E.’s opinion. Therefore he is loath to purchase one.

Maybe back to considering electric vehicles. The catch here is usual lack of effective air conditioning in these vehicles which in our climate is pretty much mandatory.

Maybe CNG. Yet again vehicle prices are now crazy.

Maybe, as a friend pointed out, just make more money and suffer the prices. That is perhaps pragmatic , yet is not an entirely wholesome response when all is considered.

For those of you who support either major political party the following was provided by a friend and is hereby passed along for your urgent review:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU4pNN3SqCA

After your review you may choose to go to http://www.votenader.org/ where common sense prevails.

Big business is not dangerous because it is big, but because its bigness is an unwholesome inflation created by privileges and exemptions which it ought not to enjoy. - Woodrow Wilson

Las Vegas Residents May Profit? Las Vegas Vineyard; Free Lunch? nearly, see: bargain eyeglasses, below.

2008-05-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

Please click on images to enlarge at your discretion. Gratuitous image of L.E. Fant's Las Vegas "Xmas Tree Cactus" in magnificent flower. The flowers lasted for only one day (yesterday) and this is the plant's first flowering in three years or so. Therefore, deserving of recording.
The extreme bargain prescription reading eyeglasses [see below].
The extreme bargain "long distance, tinted"

prescription eyeglasses [see below].

Yet another gratuitous image of a bunch of (hopefully delicious)developing organic Thompson Seedless grapes at L.E. Fant's Las Vegas mini-vineyard.

MONEY MAKING OPPORTUNITY FOR LAS VEGAS RESIDENTS?
As most of us missed out on the potential profits from purchasing and selling the ex police motorcycles or lost and found watches last weekend, maybe the following is another opportunity?
Today’s F.T informs us that the precious metal Platinum in short supply. It predicts that prices may surge to a record $2,500 (previous record set March ,2008 at $2,290) per ounce (now at $2,175) during the next six months. A commentator noted that the sector has not been so stressed in the past twenty years.
Should these predictions prove true, substantial profits may be taken when one considers the leverage of futures contracts of this commodity. Of course should these predictions not materialize one may lose substantial sums.
Perhaps a safer strategy is to purchase a few drums of regular gasoline for later sale?
Either is likely to be better for our finances that collecting the paltry interest offered by FDIC insured banks which interest rate appears to be less than our actual rate of inflation.

BARGAIN PRESCRIPTION EYEGLASSES ARE AVAILABLE FOR LAS VEGAS RESIDENTS[or non Las Vegas residents]:
L.E. Fant’s order arrived last Friday. It took approximately one and one half weeks from ordering to arrive.
L.E. had ordered the least expensive lenses and frames. He was pleasantly surprised when he opened the package. Inside were two pairs of glasses in hard cases and each came with spare screws and nose pieces.
The reading glasses (the first L.E. has owned other than 99 cent store readers which have always proved equal to other store’s $20 readers) are an improvement over the 99 centers as their lenses compensate for each eye’s idiosyncrasies. The frames, in L.E.’s opinion, are reasonably attractive and entirely acceptable (especially for the price of $2.00). All in all L.E. is extremely happy with his purchase of the readers which cost only $8.99 or less including "anti-scratch and UV coating."
The “long distance” glasses had smaller lenses than L.E. anticipated (he should have known this as dimensions were provided). However, they look fine on L.E.’s face. He had these made with a medium gray tint which is excellent when worn outside but a little too dark if worn inside. L.E. Fant’s new found ability to be able to read street signs at longer distances than before is a novelty to him and doubtless a relief for other road users. These eyeglasses cost only $12.99 or less.

The shipping (for both pairs) was stated as being $11.98 which made an invoice grand total of $29.97 for the two pairs together with hard cases and extra screws and nose pieces [This is the amount invoiced and paid even though the individual amounts add up to be more-maybe the frames were free because L.E. purchased lenses?].
L.E. Fant is still adjusting to wearing “proper” glasses and probably should have followed the prescriber’s advice and purchased no-line, progressive focus lenses with photo chromatic features which adjust the lenses’ tinting according to ambient light conditions. Such glasses should be a remedy for all conditions and from the same supplier cost a little over $100 compared with closer to $400 that L.E. was quoted at a so-called discount eyeglass store. L.E. had heard stories of folks having difficulty adjusting to such lenses and chose separate focal length lenses for his first foray into prescription lenses.

http://www.globaleyeglasses.com/index.php Your experience may vary.

YES-There were bargain ex-police Harley Davidsons at last Saturdays Las Vegas Auction!

2008-05-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

BARGAIN HARLEYS WERE TO BE HAD IN LAS VEGAS!
L.E. attended Panevino last Saturday for a doctoral graduation celebration.

First bloom of this season on L.E.'s Mexican Bird of Paradise which plant nearly died after last winter's frost!

Saturday’s Auction of ex-police Harley Davidson Motorcycles:
L.E. Fant’s intrepid technical correspondent and Internet Technology Guru attended the sale and reports:

"The police bikes most with around 40,000 miles sold for $7-7,500." Both he and L.E. conclude that this was indeed a reasonable price for such machines. L.E. expected that they would sell for $8-10,000.

L.E.’s correspondent is now in competition with Ben Bridge and all other Las Vegas jewelers as he purchased hundreds of brand name watches (Victorinox, Fossil, Bulova, Gucci, etc.), all in good condition which were county held lost property. He will make these available to bargain hunters shortly-so watch E Bay! (intentional pun).

DINNER AT PANEVINO IN CELEBRATION OF DOCTORAL GRADUATION:
L.E. Fant and wife were delighted to be invited to the graduation celebration dinner of a remarkable young lady who graduated from our Boyd School of Law.
Her academic achievement is such that she was sought out and offered a position with a very prestigious law firm where she will likely practice “corporate” law. Of course L.E. was delighted to hear this as he believes that there can be no losers in such contests as activities of both sides (as corporations and likely evil) should be curtailed.

[I hope that we shall crush in its birth the aristocracy of our monied corporations, which dare already to challenge our government to a trial of strength, and bid defiance to the laws of our country.- Thomas Jefferson
I see in the near future a crisis approaching that unnerves me and causes me to tremble for the safety of my country . . . corporations have been enthroned and an era of corruption in high places will follow, and the money power of the country will endeavor to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the people until all wealth is aggregated in a few hands and the Republic is destroyed.- Abraham Lincoln].
The dinner was held at the exclusive Panevino restaurant and hosted by the graduate's mother.

L.E. Fant enjoyed a civilized pre-dinner Bombay Sapphire Martini (with olives) followed by a lightly dressed salad and then his favorite Margharita Pizza (much larger than anticipated and he was only capable of consuming 50% or so of it) with a glass of red. The party ended around 9:30 as the graduate’s mother and a cousin needed to prepare for an early departure from our airport.

L.E. believed (due to a television so-called news report) that the party should have be able to view downtown fireworks during the dinner and all eagerly anticipated the event. However, no such display was evident,to L.E.'s chagrin.

YET AGAIN-COW PROBLEMS?

L.E. was provided, by a trusted friend, documentation regarding intrusions into cows by deviant aliens (or possibly genetic engineering perpetrated by our cow meat industry gone wrong asks L.E.?).
Look for this information and L.E.'s opinionated comment thereon very shortly.

ALSO: NEWS OF YET ANOTHER BEEF RECALL RELATED TO POSSIBLE E-COLI CONTAMINATION HAS REACHED L.E. FANT.

This despite assurances from a cow meat industry expert that we have "a safe" supply of wholesome cow meat available.

L.E. concludes that when eating a burger becomes analogous to playing "Russian Roulette" one may readily dispute such industry claims.

LAST WEEKEND's F.T.

Reports that oil is very close to $128 per barrel. Saudis agree to produce 300,000 more barrels per day. Nissan is to likely sell usable electric cat in U.S.

Las Vegas ex Police Harleys may be cheap at this Saturday's Auction.

2008-05-16T08:54:00.000-07:00

Click on images to enlarge if you so desire. CHEVROLET ELECTRIC VEHICLE SEEN BY L.E.FANT AT ALTERNATIVE FUEL EXPO IN LAS VEGAS THIS WEEK.

WATER LITTLE-DRINK PLENTY
MONTE CARLO, LUXOR, MANDALAY BAY

THIS SATURDAYS AUCTION OF EX-POLICE HARLEY DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLES HERE IN LAS VEGAS(See last two posts for pix) WILL MOST LIKELY ATTRACT MANY HOPEFUL BUYERS AND A FEW SUCCESSFUL OWNERS.

As oil today reached $117 per barrel and China and India continue putting millions of extra vehicles on world roads perhaps motorcycles become a viable option for cost savings for some with fast reflexes.

However, L.E. hopes that the gas saving is not countered by unexpected hospitalizations together with permanent injuries or worse. L.E. has suffered hospitalization and permanent injury on two occasions caused by injuries sustained when his two wheeled vehicles suffered unexpected mechanical problems which threw him off the vehicles. His injuries were sustained without contact with other vehicles.

www.automotive.com/gas-prices

DID YOU TAKE TIME TO PLAY PACMAN?http://www.freepacman.org/welcome.html

FRESH & EASY STORES THREATEN THE WORLD'S BIGGEST RETAILER BY PROVIDING DECENT FOODSTUFFS======

HOORAY FOR FRESH AND EASY!!

Further to yesterday's post re: Fresh and Easy:

Today's F.T. reveals that Wal-Mart is opening new concept (to it) stores in competition to Fresh and Easy. The first of these stores is to open in Arizona.

As L.E. has previously mentioned Fresh and Easy stores are, in his humble yet entirely accurate opinion, a delight in which to shop. They have pleasant staff and excellent foodstuffs for purchase without the necessity of walking many miles and spending hours to complete one's shopping. The Fresh and Easy concept is, in L.E.'s opinion a winner.

Try their cheese and bean burrito-like none other, delicious, large and only a couple of Dollars! L.E. shall continue to support Fresh and Easy and leave uninspiring (L.E.'s opinion) Wal-Mart for others to endure.

Where are L.E.'s new eyeglasses? Has he been scammed (again)? Will today's mail delivery include the eyeglasses which L.E. was told were mailed, priority mail, on Monday?

Harley Davidson Police Bikes-cheap in Las Vegas? More Cranes in Las Vegas.

2008-05-15T10:00:00.000-07:00

Click on images to enlarge if you please. Another view of some of the many Harley Davidson ex-police bikes for sale this Saturday in Las Vegas [together with many other police and NHP vehicles]. L.E. believes this image has artistic qualities and will offer a limited number of copies (signed and numbered) for the astute Las Vegas Memorabilia Collector to add to their collection. Free framing is an added incentive for you to order within the next 39 minutes!!
More Construction Crane images taken in Las Vegas for your viewing pleasure.

FUEL SAVING FOR SOME?

L.E. Fant spent some time at the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Expo yesterday. He was investigating the viability of using CNG as vehicle fuel. There is now available in many markets a home CNG compressor (not yet available in Las Vegas). This machine will allow one to produce CNG safely at a cost of approximately $1.25 per gasoline equivalent gallon. Alternatively one may purchase CNG in Las Vegas for approximately $2.07 per gasoline equivalent gallon.

There are kits available which one may use to convert an existing vehicle to use CNG. However, it appears that use of the (non EPA certified) kit in a vehicle on our roads is illegal and makes one liable for hefty federal fines.

The Honda Civic GX is available (apparently after a wait) for around $25,000 and is, L.E. believes subject to a tax credit of $4,000. The Fuelling machine is, L.E. believes, also subject to a $1,000 tax credit.

The use of CNG is clearly "green" and may save money as added bonus. Most vehicles have a range of around 200 miles when using CNG and get around the same MPG as a regular gasoline powered vehicle of the same type.

Therefore, the cost comparison is basically the relative costs of CNG and gasoline. The best savings are when one produces one's own CNG for around $1.25 per gasoline equivalent gallon (1.25 therms), compared with (in L.E.'s case) gasoline at $3.87 per gallon. A saving of $2.62 per gallon or approximately 67%. Even buying CNG at $2.07 is a saving of approximately 47%

In L.E.'s case at this time his family spends approximately $250 per month on gasoline (mostly commuting). CNG use would drop this expense to approximately $90 per month. the $167 saving will pay for the fuelling device in 24 months at current prices (when it is available here). Historically natural gas has not increased its cost at as high a rate as gasoline. Therefore, one may possibly anticipate the saving ratio to improve with time, maybe approaching L.E.'s hope for 4/5 or better.

Further reports will be provided as information is to hand.

NO EYEGLASSES AS YET:

L.E.'s ordered eyeglasses have not yet arrived-hopefully today.

CHEAP DIGITAL CAMERAS FOR ALL!!:

L.E. recently purchased an Olypus Stylus 780 camera for his wife. He was late ordering it and it did not arrive in time for her to take to her "Irish" reunion [the above images were taken with it].

However, this is the third camera L.E. has purchased at the Olympus EBay site and each has been an excellent experience and a great cost saving. The cameras typically sell for 25% of their MSRP or better. Therefore, a $300 camera may be bought for $69 or so. The cameras have warranty upon which L.E. is yet to make a claim. L.E. Fant passes this information along as a public service. Your experience may differ from his.

Las Vegas Goverment Auction, Las Vegas Construction, Las Vegas auction of Harley Davidson motorcycles, .

2008-05-14T12:17:00.000-07:00

Click on images to enlarge if you like. Especially the crane pic which will allow you to discern its price as Las Vegas Collectible Memorabilia Art!! Rows of ex-police motorcycles for sale this coming

Saturday at Stephanie St., Las Vegas together with cars,

trucks, machinery and other stuff. What price do you estimate each of these motorcycles will achieve at the auction?

L.E. was taken with (and, therefore, took) this image of multiple construction cranes strip- side. Should you desire a signed copy please click on the image for value pricing and contact L.E. Fant of Las Vegas who will be proud to provide you with a fine copy of this extremely important, possibly highly collectible, Las Vegas Memorabilia/ Art. Be quick as very few are available at this low price. If you buy within the next two hours L.E. will throw in a FREE picture hanging kit AT NO EXTRA CHARGE!!

GOOD FOODSTUFFS AVAILABLE IN LAS VEGAS:

The F.T reports that an independent survey of shoppers at Fresh and Easy stores revealed that most would highly recommend the store to friends, finding the quality of its products more appealing than those of Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods Market, and better value than Wal-Mart.
L.E. Fant concurs with these findings. He has long recommended this chain as a fine alternative for grocery shopping. Its meat and fish selection is extremely appealing as are its own label value items.

More Computer Misery:
The Microsoft instructions to remedy L.E.’s wife’s computer worked and she is back online. Meanwhile L.E.’s computer screen keeps popping up with an HP instruction to accept a digital signature for a download (there is none available). It will not go away and is a nuisance.

Recipes & Planter Box Plans for Free, for YOU!!Summer is just around the corner for us in Las Vegas (or at least summer temperatures). L.E. is attempting to make a largish redwood planter box for some Golden Bamboo. [The plant apparently needs to be contained or it will take over completely] He needs to make the box as those readily available do not have what he considers suitable dimensions. If successful L.E. will share his design with you in case you have need.

L.E. Fant visited the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Expo today where he investigated CNG vehicles. He will pass on information gleaned tomorrow.

Las Vegas Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas limes, Las Vegas Medical Care, Las Vegas Real Estate.

2008-05-13T13:01:00.000-07:00

Click on images to enlarge if you desire. Larger than life well describes Las Vegas as it does Louie.
L.E.'s Las Vegas cactus flowers, the first in four years or more.

L.E.'s lime tree looks like it may provide limes,
the first fruit ever from this four year old tree.

Airport pickup made without incident:

L.E. took a friend’s advice and when arriving at the airport to pick up his wife he parked in the short term area rather than make a curbside pickup.
L.E. ponders whether this constitutes an act of cowardice or is an accepted convenience of the world in which we choose to live. L.E. has long concluded that if no person tells obvious wrong doers that they are wrongdoers then the wrong doing perpetuates into accepted behavior (yet still wrong behavior by normally accepted behavioral standards).
Where this involves government employees an even greater danger becomes us. Remember “Watergate?” Remember “Waterboarding?” Remember “Weapons of Mass Destruction?”L.E. believes that we should be ever vigilant that we do not unduly lean towards fascism. [Webster: “…A system of government characterized by dictatorship, belligerent nationalism and racism, militarism, etc.”] in our allowance/tolerance of overly zealous seemingly wrongful government actions when waging our crusade known as “The War on Terror”

L.E. Fant's Prescription Eyeglasses, possibly a huge bargain, are en-route.

L.E.’s new prescription eyeglasses are on their way priority mail! He is exited and will provide his review as soon as he is able.

Gasoline prices in Las Vegas Plummet!!

L.E. Fant was surprised to find gas cost two pennies less per gallon on Sunday when he filled the behemoth yet again.

Move On to Possibly Greener Pastures?

The weekend’s F.T pointed out a remarkable real property find for L.E.’s perusal. A new two bedroom apartment on St Lucia (apparently far less developed, and all the better for it, than neighboring Barbados) yet priced at a mere $450,000, and up. L.E. imagines that one will need to catch and sell many fish, or sell many, many coconuts to keep up with payment on such a mortgage. Is there oil on St. Lucia? How do the locals manage? Maybe they unfortunately rely upon tourism and avaricious development to create wealth for some as does Las Vegas?
Should you desire to make further enquiries: Doubloon Real Estate (Really that is the name) may be called on +1 758-458-0790.

Las Vegas sights, Sheriff in town.

2008-05-12T11:59:00.000-07:00

Click on images to enlarge (or don't). The Stratosphere can be seen for miles around Las Vegas. L.E. is attracted to the colors apparent in this view.
Big bottle for big thirst?

SHERIFF IN TOWN:

Yesterday morning L.E. went outside and noticed a couple of persons who he assumed to be canvassers.

The two persons were our Clark County Sheriff Doug Gillespie and his Under-Sheriff. They were walking our community seeking feedback regarding how residents believed policing could be improved.

L.E. spent some time discussing our crime situation and how we may improve our neighborhoods' safety with them.

L.E. is impressed that our Sheriff takes the time to canvass our neighborhoods personally and is thankful that we have such a person as head of our police department.

POLL:

L.E. believes that 6,250,000,000 $80 walkers may be purchased using 500 billion Dollars. Is he correct?

Las Vegas Place Station, Las Vegas Attorneys, Monte Carlo Rally.

2008-05-10T09:22:00.000-07:00

Please click on images to enlarge. Strategically placed billboard?
L.E. believes this place is infamous for its mediocre (yet inexpensive) buffet and that O.J Simpson was arrested when in it a few months ago. Other than that, in L.E.'s opinion, it is extremely unremarkable.

MICROSOFT:

The promised email within 24 hours to assist L.E. repair his absent wife's computer failed to arrive. L.E. emailed Microsoft to remind it of its broken promise and was rewarded, this morning, with an email from a person who promises to help.

That email contained sickenly complex technical instructions which immediately brought knots to L.E.'s stomach and, therefore, L.E. has again asked his expert friend to review the instructions before L.E. implements them and possibly causes further, perhaps unremediable damage.

L.E. shall relate further details of this saga as they become apparent.

L.E.'s WEEKEND IN LAS VEGAS:

L.E. arose this morning and walked outside to determine whether the carrier had provided a copy of L.E.'s weekend F.T. (many times the carrier fails this task to the chagrin of Mr. Fant who is then forced to email London and the local F.T offices to make complaint). Today, however, it was laying on the driveway and was joyfully swooped upon by L.E.

A quick perusal indicates that Citibank is apparently to shed 500 billion Dollars of assets to get its house in order. As L.E. consumed his coffee he pondered that and concluded that he could not really comprehend the magnitude of that amount of Dollars, the number of zeros is daunting.

Next L.E. noticed an advertisement for a boat slip in Monte Carlo for May 22-25. This time period coincides with the running of the world famous (at least the rest of the world excluding us) Monte Carlo Rally.

The particular mooring apparently will accommodate boats (or should ship be more accurate?) up to 30 meters in length (say 100 feet or so). L.E. smirked as he concluded that his 12 foot long sail boat would have plenty of room left over!

This mooring is within 200 yards of "the track" which probably accounts for its cost for the four days of 30,000 Euros, or $46,340.90.

L.E. concludes that this mooring is likely beyond his reach as its cost far exceed his recently received $1,200 family tax rebate and as the mooring fee was going to a foreign country it would not likely stimulate our economy. Perhaps Citibank could use some of its $500 billion to do so?

Our inflation has also caused the cost of an aluminium "walker" to be $80.00 at Walgreen's. How many walkers could Citibank buy with its $500 billion? See: Today's Poll.

L.E. was not invited to the wedding of our current President's daughter (a clear oversight). Even if he had been invited he would have refused as it clashes with L.E.'s wife's "Irish" family reunion.

Tomorrow L.E. must run the gauntlet at our airport where Taxicab Authority goons are rampant and appear to relish overstepping their authority to harass L.E. Fant and other non-limo/taxi drivers attempting to use our county facility. Should no post subsequently appear one may assume L.E. fell foul of these goons.

L.E. Fant in Las Vegas. His day so far.

2008-05-09T13:31:00.000-07:00

Click on images to enlarge. Las Vegas World Market which is a huge wholesale furniture showroom and apparently has taken similar business from North Carolina which used to have a monopoly on such expositions. L.E. guesses that since most furniture is now made in other countries North Carolina (where most furniture used to be made) is no longer the furniture center of the U.S.
Always a food deal around Las Vegas, always a catch such as "with coupon."
New York, New York roller coaster.

Oil prices expected to reach $200 or more this year according to many commodity traders.

Rice harvest in U.S. expected to be down because of storms (if you care).

L.E.'s day started well. He attended our County palace and took time to admire some of its architectural features such as the fabulous domed vaulted ceiling with its glasses.

He was amazed to find no line at the recorder's office and completed his business in five minutes.

Next to the Post Office where he finally send two packages. One a return of useless vehicle parts ordered from a Georgia company. L.E. hopes to eventually be reimbursed for the returned item. He also mailed a package to a friend which he should have mailed weeks ago.

Then to return a solar security light which never worked to Harbor Freight Tools. They quickly offered a replacement which L.E. is now charging via the Las Vegas sunlight.

Lastly to Fry's Electronics to return a computer accessory purchased during last week's panic to get back on the Internet.

That experience was not so good. The return part resulted in a store credit being issued and a promise that if I found nothing to buy I could return to the registers and get the credit card credited.

However, when attempting to do so L.E. found that his wife had used her card for the transaction and it was now needed. The alternative was to go back to the returns dept. where the particular person who issued the credit may re-issue it as a credit on the proper card. However, that person had just gone to lunch so no credit today.

Regardless of today's experience Fry's is not one of L.E.'s favorite stores. The shopping experience within has never made good memories for L.E.

L.E. Fant of Las Vegas Pillories Nevada Taxicab Authority!

2008-05-08T08:35:00.000-07:00

L.E. FANT AGAIN ATTACKED BY TAXI AUTHORITY GOONS WHEN DROPPING OFF WIFE AT AIRPORT!! [The following is the opinion of L.E. Fant of Las Vegas and is not legal opinion-please do your own research and form your own opinion].

Earlier this very morning L.E. drove his wife to the airport in order that she may fly to a so-called “Irish” family reunion in California.
He entered the airport and made his way to the far right lane, in a "drop off" area outside the terminal (adjacent to the curb) to drop her off. As is the usual case a limo was stopped in the second lane and a person (apparently a sky cap) was standing in the middle of L.E.’s adopted lane. L.E. needed that person to move from the lane, or at least to move along it a little so L.E. could stop without the rear of his vehicle being on a crosswalk “hump.”
The person became indignant and mouthed words at L.E. who gestured to the man that he should move from the vehicular traffic lane so L.E. may properly place his vehicle for drop off. L.E. stopped where he intended and immediately got out of his vehicle and opened the cargo area to remove his wife’s luggage.
At that time a Taxi Authority “officer” approached L.E. and commenced instructing L.E. that he was in breach of traffic rules and must yield right of way to the skycap who was going to unload passengers from the limo which had stopped in the second lane.
L.E. responded that he believed that the limo (or skycap) had no legal right to stop to unload passengers in the second lane and that L.E. was actually attempting to stop in a proper area-not an improper one as the limo driver and skycap were attempting and that the "officer" should assist L.E. in his efforts to properly drop off a passenger. [see: vindication below].

The Nevada Taxicab Authority officer [L.E. prefers the classification “goon,” which Webster defines as “ruffian or thug; a grotesque or stupid person.”] was joined by a larger cohort and together they berated L.E. Fant. One shouting “you’d better get out of here now-or else.” The other claiming that L.E. was rude. L.E. replied that if they went about their legitimate business and stopped impeding and harassing him. he surely would be moving as quickly as possible to clear the area for others to use and that he was using the roadway properly unlike the limo driver and skycap.
L.E. then left the area and decided to review relevant law relating to the situation (to confirm his contentions)as this was the third occasion that he had been berated and threatened with arrest by these “goons” who apparently only have authority to intercede in non-moving violations on airport roads.

Non-exhaustive research by L.E. indicates that NRS 484 [Nevada Traffic law] is controlling where it may be contrary to Clark County Code regarding traffic rules at the airport, whose roads are considered as if dedicated as any other Nevada road. Therefore, one may argue that as on any other road in Nevada it is illegal to stop to unload passengers other than against the curb. However, even this authority is unnecessary as County Code 20.08.030(c) explicitly and unambiguously provides for this situation. See below:

Clark County Code 20.08.010 Traffic regulations--Vehicular movement generally.
"(a)The “Rules of the Road” set forth in Chapter 484 of the Nevada Revised Statutes at NRS 484.251, et seq., as amended, and Title 14 of this code shall be applicable to and shall govern motor vehicle operation upon the real property known as McCarran International Airport or upon other county airports as if the roadways were dedicated and considered highways under said statutes and Title 14 except as otherwise provided by those regulations set forth in or promulgated pursuant to this chapter. It is the duty of the police officers to enforce all traffic regulations and of the police officers and parking enforcement officers, and officers of the Taxicab Authority (as defined in NRS 706.8821(3)) to enforce all nonmoving traffic regulation governing the airport."

Further, the County Airport Code provides:

20.08.030 Parking--Loading and unloading of vehicles at airport.
"(a) No person shall park, stop or drive a vehicle for the purpose of loading or unloading a passenger or passengers or cargo at the airport unless:(1) The loading or unloading occurs in an area designated and posted for such purpose; and(2) The vehicle has entered the area designated and posted for loading and unloading by appropriate route; and(3) The established fees, if any, required for use of the airport property have been paid by the owner, driver and/or operator.(b) No person shall park or stop a vehicle while awaiting ingress to the area designated for the loading or unloading of passengers and/or cargo therein except in the holding/staging lanes which may be designated and posted for such purpose.(c) No person shall park or stop a vehicle for the purpose of picking up and/or discharging passenger(s) desiring access to the airport except in the areas so designated for that type of vehicle and for that purpose, except that the stopping of a vehicle for such purpose may be authorized by the director of aviation by written operating directive in an area if the vehicle is immediately adjacent to another vehicle which is legally stopped at a curb which has been designated for the picking up and/or discharge of passenger(s). In no instance shall a vehicle stop in any travel lane to either discharge or pick up a passenger(s) or cargo. Diagonal parking is not permitted across designated lane markings.(d) No person shall leave a vehicle unattended in any area upon the airport unless the vehicle is in an area designated by the director of aviation for parking and leaving the vehicle. The vehicle may only be parked in the area for the posted time period.(e) No person shall leave a vehicle running when parked in an area where vehicle shut-off signs are posted. (Ord. 1656 § 1 (part), 1995: Ord. 1278 § 3 (part), 1991)
[Emphasis added].

Next L.E. can find no authority for the Taxi Authority goons statement that “You must yield right of way to a skycap in any circumstance.” It appears to L.E. that as NRS 484 is controlling a skycap in similar circumstances to that of the subject circumstance may be deemed a “jaywalker.”

With the above in mind L.E. is deeply concerned that citizens are treated in such a discriminatory manner by Taxi Authority goons who apparently create laws and regulations, or at least wildly interpret existing statutes and code in a bizarre attempt to legitimize their unruly acts.

Is their training so poor that this situation exists or are they encouraged by their taskmasters to assert authority which is apparently non-existent, to the detriment of non-taxi/ limo road users?

L.E. Fant is now printing out the relevant statutes and code sections so he may carry them in his vehicle and provide them as authority when the next, inevitable, confrontation with these goons occurs.

L.E. Fant of Las Vegas challenges the Taxi Authority to refute the above assertions [with proper authority] that its employees are acting well outside the scope of their authority to the detriment of citizens who have every right to use the airport roads in conjunction with taxis and limousines, buses and shuttles according to legal road markings and relevant statutes or code.

L.E. particularly seeks its response to his claim that it apparently encourages taxis, etc. to stop (L.E. believes illegally) in any lane of the airport roadways to load or unload passengers whereas it apparently encourages its employees to harass and threaten other road users (for its advantage) who are using the airport roads legally.

The above example is surely not even handed application/enforcement of law and L.E. believes such behavior is tantamount to fascism and should be discouraged by our courts and legislature.

Las Vegas Multicultural, Las Vegas Black and Tan, Las Vegas Computer Woes.

2008-05-07T12:31:00.000-07:00

Please click on images to enlarge. Bass and Guiness together make a great "Black and Tan."
Las Vegas is multicultural-here we have Tai, Chinese, and Hispanic ads.

POLL:

As expected most respondents believe second opinions are necessary when dealing with many of these folks.

Today's poll is to find your preference for spelling the plural of "bus" [omnibus].

Here in Las Vegas (as in California) signs use the spelling "Busses." Webster's concludes that "Buses" is also acceptable. L.E. finds the appearance of the "ss" spelling to be cumbersome and finds it just does not "look right."

GASOLINE:

L.E. was horrified to pay $3.87 per gallon yesterday.

www.automotive.com/gas-prices

DIGITAL MAX AND FRIENDS AGAIN CONFIRM THAT THEY ARE NOT L.E. FANT’S FRIENDS IN THE DIGITAL AGE AS THEY WOULD LEAD US TO BELIEVE!! [L.E. BELIEVES THE LAS VEGAS CABLE MONOPOLY HAS OVERSTEPPED THE BOUNDS OF REASONABLE DEALINGS WITH ITS CUSTOMERS VIA ITS CORPORATE POLICIES]

Readers may remember L.E.’s last skirmish with the Las Vegas cable monopoly where its installer ruined a ceiling of L.E.’s residence during an installation AND ATTEMPTED TO USE AN UNLICENSED CONTRACTOR TO MAKE REPAIRS.
L.E. has used its cable service for over 4 years now. He has consistently paid the monthly bill on time (actually in advance) and the amount outstanding according to the online account system (this is easily verifiable by Digital Max and his friends).
Last month L.E. went online and paid the amount outstanding according to the web page of his account (the amount was approximately $24 less than the earlier paper bill received by L.E.). L.E. believed that as he had received some credits for the failed cable Internet service and had removed HBO (could not find even one movie that L.E. or wife desired to watch!) there was a later (than the paper bill) adjustment. When paying L.E. had a premonition that a problem may arise and he attempted to make a copy of the computer screen, but failed).
L.E. a week or so later received his regular paper bill which included a late amount outstanding of $24 and a late fee of $6. L.E. noted that he must call Max or his friends to discuss this problem.
Then the computer nightmare commenced and L.E. put off the call for a few days.
Yesterday another letter from the cable monopoly which was headed “NOTICE OF SUSPENSION AND DISCONNECTION” and went on to demand immediate payment of $98.93 to avoid further fees of $15, $6 and $15, together with threats of even more deposit, additional deposit, reconnection fee and first month service amounts to be due to these avaricious monopolistic vultures.
Please bear in mind that one is usually in credit (by prepayment) with Max and friends as one prepays by one month (same as for our trash services). L.E. cannot come to terms with how we allow these corporations to charge us late fees for amounts which are only late because they treat the amount as due to be prepaid.
The first phone call was to a less than receptive friend of Max (I use “Max” as L.E.’s previous pillorying of C*x resulted in them getting ads on his page). This gentleman essentially said pay the bill as stated or be disconnected. L.E. asked that person to review L.E.’s payment history and perhaps at least consider that it is unlikely that L.E. would choose to underpay his account and that more likely Max or friends had erred causing L.E.’s current predicament.
Sadly reason had no place is the conversation and L.E. demanded to speak with another before becoming apoplectic.
L.E.’s stomach turned when the next person came on the phone. She was nearly unintelligible to L.E. as she was possibly eating and her diction was not that of a person who should be on a phone bank. After asking that she turn up the volume and or make attempt to speak more clearly the conversation began with her asking L.E. how he wished to pay-Visa or MC?
L.E. responded neither of those as he disputes the bill. Back and forth ensued, L.E., in effort to retain some of his sanity, offered to pay the $24 amount but no fees whatsoever. This offer was accepted with reservation. Apparently Max and friends are trained by their corporate monopoly taskmasters to be condescending to customers and always assume the customer to be wrong.
L.E. was informed that the waiver of fee(s) was a one time courtesy granted because L.E. “misunderstood” his bill. L.E. informed the representative that he most definitely did not misunderstand his bill, Max had erred and he will demand correction as a matter of right not as a courtesy from those who have erred in their accounting such as her cohorts.
L.E. is now seriously considering satellite service (at least two to choose from) to replace the so-called “service” provided by the cable monopoly in Las Vegas as he finds its corporate attitude of condescension and self righteousness unacceptable.

L.E's Computer woes continue!!
It seems that computer troubles are in threes.
Yesterday L.E.’s computer and his laptop demanded that he update them with Windows XP Service Pack 3. He did so and all was well.
His wife attempted to update her computer by using the same method. This resulted in her computer failing to re-establish Windows OS. In panic she reverted to a previous system which lost access to many programs.
This morning L.E. again downloaded the update and again the system failed to open to Windows unless one uses “safe mode.” L.E. has emailed Microsoft and hopes to resolve this frustration soon, yet believes that unlikely.

Las Vegas Buffet, Las Vegas E. Fremont District, Computer Troubles in Las Vegas

2008-05-06T09:28:00.000-07:00

Please click on images to enlarge. Entry to the shadowy nether-world of Fremont East.
Never go hungry in Las Vegas

L.E. is back!!!

His computer again connects to the elusive Internet (thanks to a generous genius).See story below.

Poll Results:

Most astute and superior respondents correctly chose "less than 2,000 mg of sodium." The "mypyramid" states that 1948 mg is the daily amount for a normal 2,000 calorie diet.

http://zennioptical.com/cart/home.php

L.E. Fant possibly helps you save money!! AGAIN!! with $8.00 prescription eyeglasses!!

Yesterday L.E. took an eye exam and was provided with a prescription for corrective lenses by the optometrist.
L.E. then attended a store which sells eyeglasses to get estimates with the intention of placing an order.
The optometrist had recommended a “bi-focal without line” as being suitable. The price for this type of lens was quoted as $178 plus frames.
L.E. next asked how much it would cost to have lenses which “darkened or lightened” depending upon light conditions. These were quoted as being $398 plus frames.
There were other permutations to consider including a basic single vision long distance lens and separate reading glasses. L.E. Fant was becoming somewhat confused and decided to ponder the purchase details at home as he was leaning towards having separate glasses for long and short distances.
L.E. decided he should make price comparisons to determine whether the offer was good value.
An Internet search found http://zennioptical.com/cart/home.php where single vision glasses including frames are available for a mere $8.00 per pair. Shipping is a further $4.95 for any number of sets. The most expensive glasses appear to be $78 which is for progressive (L.E. guesses this means “no-line” bi-focals with photo chromatic lenses (the light to dark ones). If similar this is approximately $300 less than L.E. was quoted by the store.
L.E. cautions that he has yet to deal with this company and has no indications of the quality of its product, however, he is now ordering a set or two in order to find out and will relate his experience to you.

EMBARQ JOINS COX IN THE DIGITAL DISASTER and SHOWS ITSELF TO NOT BE L.E. FANT's FRIEND IN THE DIGITAL AGE!!
[Continuing Computer Saga: L.E. Suffers at the hands of Embarq technician with admitted large (physical) head].

Readers may recall that last week L.E.’s computer failed to connect to the Internet (hence sparse posts). You may recall that L.E. received advice from an Embarq technical advisor with a large head (he admitted his head was physically large).
That person told L.E. to call the support division for his wireless router and to ensure that they understood that Embarq used DHCP protocol not PPOE (which requires a password to access the Internet connection). Her went on at length to tell L.E. that he will likely find the router support people will not believe that Embarq DSL uses DHCP and L.E. must insist or hang up and redial to get a different technician online who will be convinced of the use of DHCP.
When L.E. called the router technical support technician The ensuing conversation was short. The technician asked whether L.E. could connect his computer directly to the Internet (not via his router). When L.E. disclosed that he could not do so the technician told L.E. he must call back Embarq and establish that direct connection before calling the router folk back.
L.E. was now extremely frustrated by these events and had a thought that maybe if he purchased a new modem it would magically repair the problem as it had learned no bad computer type habits.
Another trip to Fry’s Electronics provided the modem (together with a Cuisinart rice cooker/ steamer which according to L.E.’s “she who must be obeyed” would fit nicely upon the countertop).
L.E. connected and reconnected the equipment to no avail-still no Internet directly to the computer –only via his old router-not the new router.
Then salvation!!
L.E.’s good friend (and I.T. manager) found time(actually made time available despite his extremely busy schedule) to review L.E.’s setup. He was confused by a screen which showed a PPOE set up (remember the words of the man with the large (physically) head?
L.E.’s genius friend than made a call to Embarq where he was fortunate to connect with a technical support technician who did not claim a large head. When queried regarding the DHCP and PPOE connections this representative stated that when Embarq took over from Earthlink the connection type changed from PPOE to DHCP. He further stated that the Embarq modem type which L.E. had (and had disclosed to the man with the large head) was configured for PPOE and should have been exchanged by Embarq some time ago for a new modem. Also that “Engineering” had to change the connection at the Embarq host before L.E. could connect using DHCP.
Luckily L.E.’s genius friend had a spare modem which when set up connected L.E.’s computer directly to the Internet. To unravel all the changes L.E. had made in his desperate attempts took L.E.’s friend most of the day. This meant he had to wear old (large size-not which fit his new trim size) pants and shirts to work today.
L.E. sincerely thanks his genius friend for his unselfish generosity (again).

Without his help L.E. would doubtless still be ensnared by the evil web of deceit created by Embarq’s technician with the large head as L.E. believed (and had no reason to know otherwise) that DHCP was the only connection type used by Embarq.
L.E. leaves his readers to invoke the moral of this story.

Las Vegas Entertainment, Las Vegas Dining

2008-05-01T14:10:00.000-07:00

Please click on images to enlarge. Below are a few more of the Collector Series of Las Vegas Memorabilia images.

Great and inexpensive Sunday Champagne Brunch!! Take off a few pounds while in town.

See the magazine come to life in Las Vegas.

Poll:

Many superior respondents knew that a 2,000 calorie diet allows for over 60 grams of fat per day.

Our Government’s “mypyramid” sample 2,000 calorie diet plan allows a total fat intake of 67 grams of which 16 grams may be of saturated fats.

L.E. is still getting over his computer nightmare and coming to terms with the new Las Vegas record of having the highest devaluation of home prices of our Nation.

He has been trying out a new 30 minute or less chicken teriyaki recipe to share and will provide it soon.

Las Vegas Home Prices Plummet, Las Vegas Billboard Images-Collector Series, Poll Results.

2008-04-30T07:53:00.000-07:00

Please click on images to enlarge.

A Few more of the extremely important Collectors Limited Edition Series of Las Vegas Billboard Memorabilia soon to be available in near sofa size framed, signed and numbered, glossy or matt prints at unreasonable (to some) prices for your continuing enjoyment!

However, not easier than L.E. thinks!L.E. believes this to be inarguable

(and adds "or break" between "make" and "the").
WARNING.Remember, most Poll respondents concluded Roberto's food to be inedible!

Sir Galahad's Closure:

L.E. Fant received correspondence from Michael Kennedy, Director of Food & Beverage, Excalibur Hotel Casino Las Vegas after L.E. communicated his horror and extreme disappointment that the fabulous restaurant had closed.

Mr. Kennedy mentioned that the property is "serving the same delicious prime rib" from its "open kitchen" at the Steakhouse at Camelot.

(Visit us on the web: http://www.excalibur.com/)

L.E. shall attend the Camelot Steakhouse with an open mind and report his findings.

COMPUTER TROUBLE CAUSED YESTERDAY'S LACK OF POST:

L.E. purchased new data storage for his aging computer together with a USB 2.o adaptor (so he may download magnificent large scale images for his readers' pleasure with greater speed) and a new wireless router to replace his existing 5 year old and now outmoded router.

Of course there were (actually still are) problems with these changes. The USB card went in easily and immediately worked as it should without tedious configurations. "Hooray" said L.E. as he fitted the new hard drive under the existing small capacity one. He found that this job will be a breeze as there was an existing data cable which had provision for the second drive and a second power cable.

These cables were merely available to entice the inexperienced into believing this may be an easy job. L.E. connected the cables and booted up (tech term-not literal) his computer. He was chagrined to find a black screen which demanded he insert a boot disc-not the lovely blue Windows welcome. As he has no memory of where this allusive "boot disc" may be he needed plan two.

After contemplation and reviewing the unused yet similar looking cable which was supplied with the new hard drive he decided that to cover as many bases as possible he should use that cable (perhaps a few pins which puncture the ribbon are strategically missing which may make some difference he thought).

Not so easy as to use the cable as instructed (first old drive then new, or the converse) L.E. had to remove both hard drives and transpose their positions with the bowels of his computer.

Having attended to this surgery L.E. re-booted the beast and all was well-blue screen straight into Windows. A little more effort yielded recognition of the new drive.

All that remained was for L.E. to add the new wireless router. Upon advise from a sage friend who has knowledge of these matters L.E. had chosen a different brand of router. This new router promised easy installation and came with a CD with which to quickly configure the set-up and be back on the Internet.

That failed. No Internet was available for L.E. Believing the problem to likely be his modem L.E. spent considerable time finding a telephone to connect to the DSL line at the modem to prove it had signal. It did.

Now a two hour phone conversation with an Embarq technical support agent who was very difficult to hear as apparently (he said) the headset provided did not suit the size of his head and, therefore, the microphone was not adjacent to his mouth). After swapping cables of various colors and cycling on and off machines-nothing. Next we did various configs and removed new router programs-nothing. Now we re-installed the old router-it worked. Next we did things which apparently proved that the Embarq modem was still a fine piece of equipment and was definitely not the cause of L.E.'s lack of internet access.

The Embarq man told L.E. that he was only concerned that Embarq was holding up its end of the bargain and that L.E. now need call the support people for the router.

L.E. is yet to do that and is today using the "old" router to write this. He needs to recuperate before setting off on another such journey into the nether worlds of IT.

POLL REGARDING WHICH HAS MOST FAT:

Respondents were 50% -50% regarding which has the most fat, McDonald’s hamburger or D.Q.’s fudge sundae. [For comparison L.E. chose D.Q.’s “medium” size sundae].

A McDonald’s hamburger provides one with 250 calories and contains 9gm total fat (3.5 gm saturated fat).

A medium D.Q. fudge sundae provides 440 calories, contains 15 gm of total fat (11gms saturated fat).

These figures are taken from the nutritional information provided by McDonald’s and Dairy Queen on their respective web sites.

These amounts are interesting if one is attempting to consume 1800-2000 calories per day. E.G. approximately 9.5 burgers will provide one’s daily target calorie intake or 4 sundaes.

Las Vegas leads nation's (actually of the 10 cities for which results are tabulated) home price slump.

Yes again we lead the Nation - with the largest home price devaluation. According to today’s F.T. our homes' worth have depleted a further, whopping 22.8 percent during the past year alone!

L.E. reiterates his opinion that this disaster (for us homeowners) was caused, in large part, by avaricious bankers who we (as taxpayers) are now bailing out. Even with this miserable result, some still believe fervently in self regulation of such industries. Ask your Presidential candidate his or her opinion.

http://www.votenader.org/

Las Vegas Stratosphere, Las Vegas Dining, Las Vegas Solar energy, Las Vegas Billboards.

2008-04-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

NEW EXTREMELY IMPORTANT SERIES FOR SERIOUS COLLECTORS OF LAS VEGAS ART MEMORABILIA!

Again L.E. Fant is there for you with his Limited Edition Series of Las Vegas Style Billboard Images! To be made available framed or merely as signed prints.

Here is a sample for you:

No. 1 of __

____________________________________________________

The Solar panel array at Nellis AFB

covers over 130 acres and is quite a sight.

SOLAR PANEL ARRAY AT NELLIS AFB. WITH

STRATOSPHERE IN BACKGROUND.

The panels "follow " the sun and apparently provide 30% of the electrical power which the Nellis Facility consumes.

____________________________________________________

"WOE IS ME!" SAYS L.E. FANT.

L.E. has learned that Excalibur has CLOSED SIR GALAHAD'S. This restaurant has been L.E.'s Las Vegas favorite since he dined there the first year the Excalibur opened (from memory 1989). Many of the staff worked in the restaurant from then until its closure.

As L.E. has previously mentioned the dining experience was, in his opinion, unparalleled in Las Vegas and a remarkable value.

L.E. preferred to dine there with family and friends instead of dining at the Stratosphere Room at the Top (great view of our city-patchy, sometimes very poor service)or the Steakhouse at the Bellagio (its name escapes him as it was not a memorable experience other than the pretentiousness and condescension of its staff)or other establishments.

Of the many times L.E. dined at Sir Galahad's each occasion was memorable with great food, wine, the absolute best service he has ever enjoyed in Las Vegas (or in fact or most of the world) and as the portions were ample, L.E.'s dog shared leftover meat later. The house salad which was complimentary with one's meal was delicious also.

L.E. takes this opportunity to thank all the staff of Sir Galahad's for their excellent work during its existence and wishes them well.

L.E. Fant is petitioning the management of Excalibur to re-open Sir Galahad's. He understands that a business decision was reached, probably sales were low, which caused the closure. L.E. believes, however, that if a little was spent advertising the many virtues of Sir Galahad's and its magnificent dining experience it may well prove viable.

If you feel the same way please take time to email, write of call Excalibur management and express your desire that Sir Galadad's be re-opened soon.

Las Vegas Style FREE Recipe!! Las Vegas Limited Edition Collector images of Old School Motels.

2008-04-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

STOP PRESS:

MAN KILLED BY SHARK OFF SAN DIEGO, CA!! FIRST SUCH DEATH IN MANY YEARS

click on images to enlarge! Two bedroom suites available at the Lamplighter.
Old school charm here.
The Gatewood offers smog checks as well

as accommodations in a cubist environment?

POLL:

Most agree that El Pollo Loco and Chipotle Mexican Grill have the healthiest ingredients of the major chain take out restaurants.

Wendy’s Burger (chain) consumed by Nelson Peltz.

The billionaire has added Wendy’s to his portfolio which includes Arby’s. Apparently Wendy’s has been losing ground (beef?) to her arch (intentional pun) rival McDonald's. L.E. guesses this answers the question “where’s the beef?”

What to do?
Interest rates (maybe 3.05%) on our savings accounts are at a level which L.E. believes do not keep up with inflation (check out gasoline and food prices).

Stock prices, even of many stocks which report improved earnings, seem to be down around 25% from last year and there is still fear among many analysts (and stock holders) that recent recovery is just a classic bear market rally. If true many of us will be devastated, especially those of us who face having only a few years in which to recover financially.

Many of us now live in (to classify as “own” appears pretentious in this climate) homes which are now valued (by comparable sales) at perhaps half of the amount one paid for it.

Should we buy gold? Should we live and be merry, spending our savings? Cash in our stocks? Or buy more in the hope that the market (stock and housing) has “bottomed?”

HERE IS ANOTHER ABSOLUTELY FREE AND FABULOUS LAS VEGAS STYLE RECIPE FOR YOUR DINING PLEASURE COURTESY OF LAS VEGAS CELEBRITY AND PERENNIAL RACONTEUR L.E. FANT

LAS VEGAS STYLE RAUNCHY RUBEN

Today, while attending to business at the magnificent Las Vegas City Hall, L.E. had the pleasure to converse with a Chicago native who missed her beloved Ruben sandwiches (made the Chicago way).
L.E. pondered and recalled a recipe he used some while ago for his Las Vegas Style Raunchy Ruben:

Ingredients (for two sandwiches).
4 slices of Rye bread of your choice.
8 oz of shaved best quality corned beef or pastrami if your desire).
½ cup or so of thousand island dressing with 2 tsp red enchilada sauce mixed in-(or use Russian for traditional taste).
3 oz of well drained sauerkraut.
2 big slices of good Swiss cheese.
Pat of butter.

Method:
(While admittedly tedious L.E. believes the steaming makes a moister, more succulent and, therefore, delicious sandwich than does mere grilling-if you can’t be bothered with steaming use a skillet and grill instead)
Set up a steamer (Chinese style or saucepan with water and grid).
Pile 1/2 of the meat on greaseproof paper or plate in the steamer, top with the cheese. Steam until piping hot and cheese nicely melted. Warm the sauerkraut in the steamer or in a pan.

Meanwhile butter one side of the bread slices, grill until golden.

Apply the dressing generously to both insides of the bread, fill by piling in the meat and cheese, add the warm sauerkraut on top, cut in half and consume while hot and melty!

You may find help at: www.automotive.com/gas-prices

DID YOU TAKE A LITTLE TIME TO PLAY PACMAN?http://www.freepacman.org/welcome.html

Las Vegas Old School Motel Collector Series Images.

2008-04-24T11:35:00.000-07:00

click on images to enlarge. The famous Bonanza Motel was not located at the Ponderosa as many believed but here in Las Vegas!
The Walden is adjacent to...?

POLL:

Most believe that Roberto's Taco Shop provides food which is inedible. This is in accord with L.E.'s finding and may well be taken as a warning.

OTHER NEWS:

Bank of America Reports 77% decline in profit as provisions for credit losses climb. [F.T. 4/22/08].

Hillary Clinton, after big win warns Iran we will "obliterate Iran" when asked about a possible Iranian nuclear assault on Israel.

L.E. ponders whether her style of rhetoric will enhance the U.S.'s image or further harm it. Also whether such talk makes Hillary's ambition less or more credible with voters.

Only one Presidential candidate appears to have a proper grasp of how the U.S. should engage middle east nations according to L.E. http://www.votenader.org/

Ex U.S. Army engineer arrested for providing Israeli diplomat with nuclear and weapons information. [F.T. 4/23/08].

FINANCIAL TIMES:

Today L.E. received three copies of the Financial Times. One of Monday's edition, one of Tuesday's edition and one for today.

In L.E.'s opinion the best news contained therein was an advertisement for men's shirts from a London based quality shirt maker whereby one may purchase four shirts for $200.

OIL PRICES TOY WITH $120 per barrel as Dollar falters:

Some expect $200 soon. As the summer season approaches it appears likely that $4.00 per gallon is very likely here in Las Vegas.

HAS L.E. FANT CAUSED RICE PRICES TO SKYROCKET?

Perhaps the recent publication of L.E's fabulous risotto and curry recipes have created a run on rice as his readers prepare those recipes for their grateful families and friends?

Many Chinese restaurants in San Francisco and indeed around the world are hoarding rice as the prices continue to rise on world markets. Rice has risen around 50% in the past month or so and may continue to become more expensive.

Bargain Las Vegas Hotels/ Motels, Limited Edition, Collector Series Images, Las Vegas Eating out.

2008-04-23T13:00:00.000-07:00

click on images to enlarge. Two more memorabilia images of the Limited Edition Series of "the other Las Vegas." Very catchy name "Par-A-Dice MOTEL." Claims to have Large furnished rooms. Expect Huge savings compared with strip room prices!
The Desert Moon Motel is convenient to an apparently Italian bakery.

Need supplies, or?

NO NEWS MAY BE GOOD NEWS?
The Financial Times again has failed to deliver L.E. Fant his copy. This is now two days in a row without access to its mine of information relating to our world.

LAS VEGAS EATING OUT:

Some time ago L.E. ate at a Roberto's Tacos. He had noticed many of this chain around town and thought that as there were so many the food was likely good.

Unfortunately that was not the case in L.E.'s experience. He believes that the food was awful, mostly inedible, greasy and vile. The condiment area was unkempt and unappealing.

Needless to say L.E. has never set foot within a Roberto's Taco Shop since. He wonders whether his experience was typical or he went on a very bad day?

OIL MAKES $119 per barrel:

www.automotive.com/gas-prices

Las Vegas Hotels, Collector series images of "the other Las Vegas."

2008-04-22T14:16:00.000-07:00

Please click on images to enlarge This Fremont St. motel is convenient to public transport and offers old world clapboard charm for its guests.

The Las Vegas Hotel may be more appealing to light sleepers than the adjacent Ogden House Motel as it offers a 1/2 day rate of only $19.99(see the sign on the glass door for details). L.E. wonders whether one has a choice of which half of the day.

L.E. took this image as the machine's rider was issuing a ticket to an unfortunate motorist. It is a gratuitous image which may appeal to some.

POLL:

Most agree with L.E. that "the bird" is likely a Northern Mockingbird.

GREAT NEWS FOR QUITE A FEW:

The U.S. apparently has 3,100,000 people claiming to be millionaires. [F.T. 4/21/08].

NO DAILY PAPER FOR L.E.!

L.E. Fant is irritated. For many months home delivery of his copy of the F.T. has been "spotty." Many complaints to its circulation department have not improved the delivery situation. Most weeks at least one or two issues are late by a day or not delivered at all.

L.E. today commented to the F.T.'s publisher that perhaps where delivery is uncertain in a particular area it may be better to not offer delivery as poor delivery standards reflect poorly on an otherwise magnificent and extremely informative publication.

Las Vegas Budget Accomodations, Las Vegas Hotels, Las Vegas birds.

2008-04-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

This creature has taken up residence in L.E.'s tree. It chatters at L.E. incessantly commencing each dawn. L.E. believes it to be a Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) but will accept correction from those more knowledgeable.

(Please click on images to enlarge)

This morning at 7:30 am NLVPD Swat and other officers were apparently doing business at the "Trailer Oasis" on N. Las Vegas Blvd. Or maybe these officers live there?

Below are the next two images of "The Other Las Vegas" Budget Accommodations and Entertainment Collectors' Limited Edition Series soon to be offered to Las Vegas memorabilia collectors:

Entertainment and accommodation here at way less than Strip prices!! Can't beat it! Some rooms have view of the hills, others don't.

An entrepreneur has apparently opened a necktie business next to the Desert Hills Motel. L.E. presumes the Motel has a strict dress code for its guests? The clincher here is the pool! Perhaps not Mandalay Bay,perhaps no sharks, yet the tariff is many, many $$$ less per night

As promised, tomorrow another two of the series will be released for your preview.

POLL RESULT/ COMMENT FROM L.E. FANT of LAS VEGAS:

Most (85%) apparently believe a trial is in order before execution. L.E. asks "If so, why a desire to eliminate/ shorten the appeals process (previous Poll result) which surely is testing the validity of the preceding trial." Death is usually forever. Mistakes are human.

www.automotive.com/gas-prices

LAS VEGAS (The "other Las Vegas") Limited Edition Photographs. SAVE BIG ON HOTEL and ENTERTAINMENT IN LAS VEGAS !

2008-04-19T14:40:00.000-07:00

Please click on images to enlarge and see greater detail. Spin the wheel and take your chance at the Roulette Motel on Fremont...
Then head on down to the Ukulele Lounge on Las Vegas Blvd. for "great food" and assorted entertainment opportunities...

L.E. Fant has scoured the "other" Las Vegas to find bargains for tourists whose Dollar may not go as far as it once did. L.E. will show photographic images of these finds at the rate of two per day while they last.

For those willing and desiring (perhaps due to financial constraints caused by our extremely greedy financial houses of ill repute) to bypass the big glossy strip properties and their extremely high prices, these properties may offer huge savings and maybe excitement not found elsewhere.

As a corollary L.E. has determined that these images are indeed collectible as authentic Las Vegas memorabilia. He shall shortly offer signed prints (framed if you desire) of this limited series of gritty art for you serious collectors. Such opportunities are indeed rare.

L.E. also sees this exposition as his way of helping get more tourist Dollars in our community. Las Vegas's economy may well improve due to his unselfish dedication to our city.

HERE IT IS, THE FABULOUS LAS VEGAS STYLE RECIPE YOU HAVE BEEN EAGERLY ANTICIPATING. DIRECT TO YOU (ABSOLUTELY FREE OF ANY CHARGES WHATSOEVER) FROM THE KITCHENS OF THE CELEBRATED L.E. FANT of LAS VEGAS.

LAS VEGAS STYLE CREAMY, CLASSIC AND EXTREMELY SCRUMPTIOUS TOMATO BASIL RISOTTO FOR TWO (in around 30 minutes).

INGREDIENTS:
1 cup arborio rice
2-21/2 cups chicken stock
2 Tbs olive oil
1 clove garlic finely chopped
4 shallots finely chopped or ½ large onion finely chopped
2 medium tomatoes skinned and seeded (blanch in boiling water for 10 seconds, peel skin, cut into ¼’s cut and scrape out seeds, then cut into 3/8 inch pieces.
Two or three or four leaves of fresh basil and finely chop (roll up together and slice into 1/8 inch pieces).
1/6 cup grated Parmesan cheese [preferably fresh grated not the canned stuff with added anti-caking ingredients]
Salt and pepper to taste.

METHOD:
Sauté the garlic and shallots/ onions in 2 Tbs olive oil (add a knob of unsalted butter for decadency), lightly season with salt and pepper and cook until soft. [Keep stirring and be careful to not burn the garlic].
Meanwhile Heat the chicken stock to simmer in saucepan.
Add rice to pan with shallots/onions and stir for 3-5 minutes until coated with oil and just beginning a tan perhaps
Reduce heat to low [a simmer]. Add 1 cup of the hot chicken stock and stir gently until it is absorbed into the rice. Add the stock a ladle full at a time and stir each addition until absorbed. This should take around 15 minutes and the rice should be creamy consistency and just cooked through. Use more or less stock and time to achieve this. [The secret here is to add the stock a little at a time and gently stir until absorbed by the rice before adding more-it may take longer depending upon the rice and temperature].

Remove from heat and gently fold in the tomatoes, basil and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, perhaps with a green salad [please use a simple dressing such as oil and vinegar so as to not conflict with the flavors of the risotto] and glass of wine of your choice. The aromatics of this dish are magnificent.

OIL HITS $116 per barrel!
www.automotive.com/gas-prices may help you save $$.

DID YOU TAKE TIME TO PLAY PACMAN? IT IS THE WEEKEND YOU KNOW. http://www.freepacman.org/welcome.html

POLL:

The last two polls indicate that a majority of respondents believe a death penalty should exist in the U.S. They further believe that the appeals process regarding capital cases should be shortened/ eliminated.

Today's Poll takes us even further into this morass...

Las Vegas Venetian, Las Vegas Death Penalty Poll Results, Oil over $115 per barrel.

2008-04-18T12:06:00.000-07:00

click on images to enlarge Sculpture for sale at the Venetian some while ago
Singing Venetian Gondolier in Gondola
Solar lamp
Saving CO2 emissions in Las Vegas

Las Vegas ranks 20th in nation!:

Las Vegas (Clark County) ranks 20th in the nation for CO2 emissions! We produce 5,955,000,000 tons per annum. That seems a lot. Solar lighting, where practical, will reduce that amount as will use of electric lawnmowers.

Lawful use of DEADLY FORCE by Henderson Police?

Inquest regarding Henderson police fatal shooting of ice cream vendor at RJC is open to the public. Apparently a number of witnesses claim the shooting was unjustified as the diminutive woman had no weapon.

OIL OVER $115 Per Barrel!!

Today's FT reveals that oil has reached $115 per barrel.

L.E. and many of us are concerned as to our future driving habits as gasoline prices escalate.

www.automotive.com/gas-prices

RICE REACHES $1,000 per tonne on world markets!

As staples reach record high prices many more throughout the world will be in danger of starvation.

Enjoy L.E.'s Risotto recipes while rice is affordable!!

Yesterday's Poll Results:

57% of respondents indicated that they believe we should retain the death penalty. This close result shows how divisive the issue remains to us.

TOMORROW:

ANOTHER LAS VEGAS STYLE RECIPE (using as few pots as possible and being prepared in the shortest time practical yet possessing superb flavor and textures) FROM THE KITCHENS OF L.E. FANT WILL BE PROVIDED FOR YOUR POSSIBLE PLEASURE TOMORROW--PLEASE TUNE IN.

UPDATE ON L.E.'s "Computer Worldwide TV."

Las Vegas Stratosphere, Las Vegas Chicken Curry, Las Vegas's Andre Agassi.

2008-04-17T10:05:00.001-07:00

click on images to enlarge.LAS VEGAS RESIDENT ANDRE AGASSI IS A GREAT BENEFACTOR OF LAS VEGAS YOUTH
STRATOSPHERE VIEWED FROM MLK

L.E. apologizes for the lack of post yesterday. He was attending to his wife after she endured relatively minor surgery yesterday.

YESTERDAY'S POLL:

83% Of Superior Respondents believe that Ralph Nader most reflected the values contained within the Presidential quotations.

As L.E. has noted before, and now reiterates, One may as well vote for Wal-Mart or G.E. or Texaco, etc. as voting for either duopoly candidate amounts to the same.

Hillary sides with McCain to beat Obama to detriment of Dems?

She is using similar criticism of Obama as is McCain. Many Democrats decry this behavior as they believe it helps McCain. L.E., however, is not surprised by her exhibition of desperation in this vile race.

TODAY'S INSIGHTFUL POLL:

Yesterday the Supreme Court has cleared the way for executions to resume. It concludes that lethal injections (as used by many states including Nevada) do not amount to "cruel and unusual punishment."

Even though many states do not allow pets to be put to sleep using the same method as now used to execute humans, the Court held that "simply the possibility of pain" does not meet the cruel and unusual punishment standard of "wanton exposure to objectively intolerable risk."

The Nevada Supreme Court has not yet lifted the stay on Nevada's executions and will review the U.S. Supreme Court Decision before ruling.

Some argue that the death penalty is archaic and is merely retribution. Many civilized, developed counties have abolished the death penalty many years ago. Should the U.S.?

LAS VEGAS STYLE CELEBRATED, CHEERFUL CHICKEN CURRY for two in approximately 30 minutes or less.

NOTE:
L.E. used to make this dish using chicken thighs with a little breast meat. However, since dietary modification was necessary to reduce his intake of evil fats he now uses only breast meat in the recipe (the coconut milk is fatty). He is of the opinion that the flavor of the dish is better when using the thighs. Therefore, one may substitute say 3 thighs instead of the breast or use a combination.

INGREDIENTS:
Chicken: skinless, boneless breast or 3 skinless thighs or combination.
1 large onion chopped.
1 0r 2 cloves of garlic chopped.
2-3 tsp curry powder (according to taste).
½ tsp red pepper flakes.
Salt and pepper to taste.
2 Tbs olive oil
1 Tbs butter
1 can of coconut milk.
1 cup long grain rice.
Optional: ½ cup of cooked sweet peas to add to cooked rice, ¼ cauliflower cut into ¼ inch slices or florets or eggplant or your choice of veg

METHOD:
Heat 11/2 Tsp oil and 1 Tsp butter over medium heat in skillet. Add onion and garlic. Cook, stirring (to prevent burning) for 3 minutes. Sprinkle 11/2 tsp curry powder over onion/ garlic and stir in. Continue cooking another two minutes.
Lightly coat the chicken breast (cut into ¾ inch chunks) and/or thighs with salt, pepper and curry powder. Move the onion to sides of skillet and add remainder of oil/ butter in center. Brown the chicken, turning so all sides are browned.
Add 2 cups of coconut milk and stir in so bottom of pan is cleaned of “bits.” Cover and simmer on low heat for approx. 15-20 minutes, adding cauliflower if used at t6he 10 minute mark (or until meat on thighs falls off). Add remaining coconut milk or simmer with lid off to obtain proper sauce consistency. Adjust with pepper flakes, hot sauce, more curry powder to your taste during last five minutes of cooking.
Meanwhile cook the rice (see previous recipes or instructions on rice packet). Mix the cooked peas into the rice and plate. Serve the curry over the rice and maybe add a side of plain yogurt with chopped cucumber to cool one’s palate.

www.automotive.com/gas-prices MAY PROVE USEFUL.

DID YOU TAKE TIME TO PLAY PACMAN?
http://www.freepacman.org/welcome.html

Only one Presidential candidate is unambiguously NOT PART OF THE EXISTING DUOPOLY: http://www.votenader.org/

Las Vegas Binion's, FREE Risotto recipe, Poll regarding corporations.

2008-04-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

Please click on images to enlarge Waiting for work? [cnr. Bonanza and MLK]
Waiting for the Moulin Rouge Buffet to re-open?

[see: yesterday's post]
Las Vegas infamous Binion's

[taken through windshield at 65 mph-sorry]

Today's Poll/Civics Quiz is regarding important, memorable historical quotations and your opinion, as Superior Readers, regarding their current relevance.

Please take time to review the following Presidential quotations and then participate. Below is a fabulous FREE Risotto Recipe as reward for your efforts!

"I hope that we shall crush in its birth the aristocracy of our monied corporations, which dare already to challenge our government to a trial of strength, and bid defiance to the laws of our country."- Thomas Jefferson
"I see in the near future a crisis approaching that unnerves me and causes me to tremble for the safety of my country . . . corporations have been enthroned and an era of corruption in high places will follow, and the money power of the country will endeavor to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the people until all wealth is aggregated in a few hands and the Republic is destroyed."- Abraham Lincoln
"Big business is not dangerous because it is big, but because its bigness is an unwholesome inflation created by privileges and exemptions which it ought not to enjoy." - Woodrow Wilson
"The citizens of the United States must control the mighty commercial forces which they themselves called into being."- Theodore Roosevelt
"In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military-industrial complex." - Dwight Eisenhower
"I know of no safe depository of the ultimate powers of society but the people themselves - and if we think them not enlightened enough to exercise their control with a wholesome discretion, the remedy is not to take it from them, but to inform their discretion." - Thomas Jefferson
"The first truth is that the liberty of a democracy is not safe if the people tolerate the growth of private power to a point where it becomes stronger than their democratic state itself. That, in its essence, is fascism - ownership of government by an individual, by

a group, or by any other controlling private power." -

Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Gleaned from: http://www.votenader.org/

YESTERDAY'S POLL RESULT:

100% of Superior Respondents believe that the Las Vegas Moulin Rouge should be restored and re-opened.

The Dali Llama is in the U.S. and will be met by "an envoy" of the administration. He is apparently blamed by the Chinese for allegedly instigating human rights demonstrations surrounding the Olympic Games.

The Pope is here to enlighten U.S. residents by spreading the good word according to the Catholic faith and faithful.

AT LONG LAST! HERE IS ANOTHER ABSOLUTELY FREE and FABULOUS RECIPE FOR YOUR ENJOYMENT [SIMPLE CURRY RECIPE FOLLOWING VERY SOON]:

LAS VEGAS STYLE MAGNIFICENT MUSHROOM RISOTTO FOR TWO (in around 30 minutes).

INGREDIENTS:
1 cup arborio rice
2-21/2 cups chicken stock
21/2 Tbs olive oil
1 clove garlic finely chopped
3-4 oz sliced sauteed crimini mushrooms [these are immature portobello’s]
1/6 cup grated Parmesan cheese [preferably fresh grated not the canned stuff with added anti-caking ingredients]
salt and pepper to taste.

METHOD:
Sauté the garlic and sliced mushrooms in ½ Tbs olive oil (add a knob of unsalted butter for decadency), lightly season with salt and pepper and cook until soft. [Keep stirring and be careful to not burn the garlic]. Set aside.

Meanwhile Heat the chicken stock to simmer in saucepan.
Put 2 Tbs olive oil in skillet and heat at medium low-add rice and stir for 3-5 minutes until coated with oil and just beginning a tan.
Reduce heat to low [a simmer]. Add 1 cup of the hot chicken stock and stir gently until it is absorbed into the rice. Add the stock a ladle full at a time and stir each addition until absorbed. This should take around 15 minutes and the rice should be creamy consistency and just cooked through. Use more or less stock and time to achieve this. [The secret here is to add the stock a little at a time and stir until absorbed by the rice before adding more-it may take longer depending upon the rice and temperature].

Remove from heat and gently fold in the cooked mushrooms and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, perhaps with a green salad [use a simple dressing such as oil and vinegar so as to not conflict with the flavors of the risotto] and glass of wine of your choice.

www.automotive.com/gas-prices may save you some $$.

http://www.playedonline.com/game/1603/Video-Poker.html may be fun.

Las Vegas Moulin Rouge, Steak & eggs for less than the cost of a gallon of gas? T.V. on your computer.

2008-04-14T09:07:00.000-07:00

click on images to enlarge The Las Vegas Moulin Rouge today.

(please excuse poor image-taken at 40 mph through windshield)

This west Las Vegas casino opened and closed during 1955. It was the first integrated casino property in Las Vegas. Until its opening black performers working strip properties were not allowed to stay at, or gamble in the those casinos.

Many famous celebrities entertained and stayed at the Moulin Rouge including Sammy Davis Jr., Louis Armstrong, George Burns, Frank Sinatra and many more.

In 1992 the building was listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

L.E. Fant was recently invited to a meeting which was to introduce investors to local folk with the aim of renovating and re-opening this historic Las Vegas property.

Steak and Eggs available in Las Vegas for the price of a gallon of gas, by August?

www.automotive.com/gas-prices

Las Vegas residents are mostly well read!!

www.ShowTickets4Locals.com

North Korea:

Will no longer have to provide a complete declaration of its nuclear activities under a tentative deal with the U.S.

This is a significant relaxation of last years' agreement and is apparently to "ease tensions."

It is rumored that North Korea is assisting Syria in its nuclear objectives.

[This information was gleaned from the April 14, 2008 F.T.] L.E. is not aware of major media reports regarding our appeasement. Have our Presidential candidates discussed this issue?

http://www.votenader.org/blog/2008/04/09/polly-wanna-cracker/

Computer T.V.

After using the service for a couple of days L.E. reports that he believes the one-time fee is reasonable even though it is not regular T.V. He reaches this conclusion as he finds it interesting to view or listen to news from all over the world. The almost countless number of radio programs from which one may choose are a welcome bonus.

There are a number of old T.V. classics available such as Dragnet, Alfred Hitchcock presents, and others and some overseas sports programming such as Australian football.

One may also play countless free games online.

http://www.inklineglobal.com/adsales/earthlink/tvo_offer_300_broadcast.html?mcp=US

Las Vegas Stardust Nostalgia

2008-04-12T16:22:00.000-07:00

please click on image to enlarge

One Dollar Gaming Token from defunct Stardust.

L.E. has a few of these as souvenirs

STOP PRESS:

Yesterday L.E. mentioned a service which provides T.V. feed via one's computer. L.E. hoped that maybe he could replace his cable subscription with it. The service claims 1500 channels worldwide are available.

L.E. subscribed and finds that the service is not a replacement for his cable service. The reason is that there are no regular TV programs available. The channels are mostly of news programs and are usually recorded from a while ago.Many are not immediately available and one may spend much time attempting to log on to a channel. without success.

It is, however, interesting to view all the different countries' TV.

L.E. brings you this quick review in order that you are aware of the limitations of the service before you spend your Dollars.

GAS PRICES:

Today L.E. spent $81.00 topping off the tank of his vehicle [$3.61].

Poll Results:

Indicate that a majority will not seriously consider purchasing an electric or hybrid vehicle when gas costs $5.00 or more.

Please see below for links to gas prices.

Las Vegas Venetian, Las Vegas M & M Store and more

2008-04-11T11:41:00.000-07:00

View from gondola at the Venetian
Las Vegas Venetian
M & M Store on Las Vegas Strip

CANDY PRICES UP?

Maybe your Mars bar will cost more (as does seemingly everything)?
An Indonesian court recently fined Mars over $6 million for allegedly breaching an agreement with its Indonesian distributor.

POLL:

33% of respondents believe gas will cost over $4.00 in Las Vegas after August. A further 33% believe May will be the month when $4.00 is exceeded. One respondent believes June will be the month. Whenever it occurs L.E. will dread that day as then $5.00 will be an appropriate target!

Las Vegas Gas Prices: www.automotive.com/gas-prices

Free TV?
Has anyone tried this service? If its claims are true one may save a considerable number of Dollars (in L.E.’s case over $60 per month) by using it. Is it too good to be true or is it a winner? Maybe L.E. will check it out and let you know.

http://www.inklineglobal.com/adsales/earthlink/tvo_offer_300_broadcast.html?mcp=US

RECIPE FAILURE:

L.E. attempted (due to a request from a Superior Reader) to have his delicious, sustaining and only marginally unhealthy chicken curry recipe available today. He apologizes to his Superior Readers as his memory has failed him (again) and he needs to test the recipe to get the ingredient list accurate. Check each day as it will appear soon.

In the meantime, obtain a can of coconut milk, an onion, rice, curry powder, garlic, perhaps a handful of peas (to go in the rice) and a few red pepper flakes and you will be ready. L.E. shall make his best efforts to make it a one pot, 30 minute meal as usual!

To pass the time waiting: http://www.playedonline.com/game/1130/Tetris.html

Today's Poll is an extension of yesterday's and one last week regarding fuel consumtion of the vehicles we now drive. Please participate-the results may be enlightening.

Las Vegas Bellagio, Las Vegas Style FREE Recipe

2008-04-10T12:02:00.000-07:00

please click on images to enlargeLas Vegas Bellagio-maybe still the most opulent strip property?
Ceiling stained Glass-Bellagio Foyer, adjacent atrium.

POLL RESULTS:

Sadly 75% of respondents stated that they could not accept the truth of Polly's message!!

ANOTHER ABSOLUTELY FREE RECIPE FROM L.E. FANT'S KITCHEN FOR YOUR DINING DELIGHT!

Las Vegas Style Tantalizingly Tangy, reasonably healthy, Baked Lemon Chicken for Two
Time, as usual 30 minutes or less
Ingredients:
2- skinless, boneless chicken breasts
¼ cup flour to coat chicken

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 thinly sliced cloves of garlic
1/2 tsp dried thyme

1 cup thinly sliced onions
2 Tbs canola oil

1 cup chicken stock or water
juice of 1 lemon1 lemon sliced thinly, seeds removed

Method:
Combine salt, pepper, garlic, thyme and flour in plastic bag.
Cut chicken into ¾ inch pieces place in bag with flour and seasonings and shake to coat.
Add the oil to a skillet and brown chicken over medium high heat.
Combine onions, stock, and lemon juice in a sauce pan. Heat to a boil.
Pour hot lemony mixture around chicken arranged in a loaf pan or small casserole dish.
Top with lemon slices.
Bake for 20-25 minutes at 400 degrees until chicken is cooked through.
Serve with rice and veg. of your choice.

P.S. L.E.'s wife enjoyed this creation-L.E. is still unsure-how do you rate it?

TODAY'S FINANCIAL TIMES DISCLOSES U.S. DOWNTURN WILL LAST LONGER THAN MOST EXPECT (recession through 2009) and OIL HITS FRESH RECORD ($112)HIGH.

Coupled with this news, the F.T. reports that "Banks take Blame for Crisis" in an effort to maintain self regulation. L.E. believes that "self regulation" may not in our best interests and is analogous to leaving the wolves in with the sheep. Result wolves have full bellies and sheep are decimated.

WHILE TAXPAYERS ARE EXPECTED TO BAIL OUT THESE AVARICIOUS FOLK, WE SHOULD EXPECT/DEMAND MEANINGFUL REGULATION OF THEIR ACTIVITIES!

www.automotive.com/gas-prices may prove useful as prices near $4.00.

L.E. has been attempting to place a widget here which displays continually updated gas prices for Las Vegas. However, his technical expertise is insufficient at this time and promises of others to complete this task for L.E. have proven hollow.

As malicious attempts have been made through comments herein, all comments shall forthwith be moderated prior to posting for our protection.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Bicyclists

2008-04-09T11:30:00.000-07:00

click on image to enlarge. Metro on the Las Vegas Strip

Yesterday's Poll did not have many respondents:

Yet it still revealed that a majority believe Nevada's labor laws need overhaul.

Today's Rant: "The Credit Crisis and me."

The IMF (International Monetary Fund) expects the cost of our credit crisis to reach $1,000 billion, expressed as write downs and losses. This caused, in large part, by (in L.E.’s opinion) avaricious, unscrupulous recklessly negligent packagers of securities and mortgagors who probably knew (or at least should have known) that the paper they were writing was not substantial.
The ex Federal Reserve head, Greenspan, commented (in the April 7, 2008 F.T.) that regulation likely would not have stopped the collapse as bank loan officers “know far more about the risks and workings of their counterparties than do bank regulators.”
L.E. guesses that this argument may be extended and eventually us taxpayers will be blamed for the credit crisis and housing market collapse.
Here in Las Vegas we are apparently suffering more than most of our countrymen and women. Even those who are not holders of a so-called “sub-prime” note are suffering severely as our housing investment spirals downwards, often to reflect a potential sale price of many, many thousands of Dollars less that we have paid for our investment (discounting any improvements made).
L.E. conjectures that many of us may be better off financially by leasing rather than purchasing. This may be explained by adding the cost of one’s mortgage payments and insurances and taxes to date to the loss of an immediate sale, then dividing the product by the number of months of ownership. Compare the answer to lease cost for the same period. Extend the results by as long as you envision being in a home and the answer may surprise you.

Why is there no class action lawsuit against the major mortgage lenders who caused this disaster, yet still collect interest on our notes which often exceed our properties current worth? These are the same lenders whose unsound lending practices have directly caused our home values to decline substantially.

Sadly, U.S. taxpayers (and foreign investors) are the ones bailing out these institutions with our hard earned money. As encouragement to support this bailout we are to be given some of our money back. A further result of this fiasco is that our savings are lucky to return over 3% APR. This, in L.E.’s opinion, underscores the ridiculousness and ambiguity of the total situation.

Bearing the above in mind is there any wonder that the gap between the very wealthy and the poorest of us in the U.S. has widened further. Apparently in 2004-6 the nation’s wealthiest 5%, on average, were paid more than 12 times as much as the poorest fifth. This is up from nine times as much in 1987-9.[F.T April 9, 2008].

Great Animal Video for your viewing pleasure and possible enlightenment:

See a talking parrot with insight!

http://www.votenader.org/blog/2008/04/09/polly-wanna-cracker/

NEW RECIPE:

Yesterday L.E. attempted to remember his Lemon Chicken recipe. He could not remember so make up a recipe. He wanted it to be relatively healthy-without added sugar and so forth.

The result was tangy, lemony but far different than the lost recipe. L.E.'s wife enjoyed the "new" recipe and perhaps you may (L.E. is unsure). It will be available tomorrow for your convenience.

Las Vegas Gas Prices: www.automotive.com/gas-prices

Las Vegas nearly four years ago viewed from the Las Vegas Stratosphere

2008-04-08T10:57:00.000-07:00

click on images to enlarge and see more detail.

HOW MUCH HAS CHANGED IN THESE VIEWS SINCE THESE IMAGES WERE CAPTURED IN 2004?

Yesterday’s Poll Results:

Reassuringly the majority of Superior Respondents believe that to “hit and run” is scurrilous and unacceptable behavior. However, two respondents uphold such behavior as being acceptable. L.E. is extremely disappointed that any of his readers have such belief and urges them to be better neighbors.

WAL-MART A FINE EXAMPLE OF CORPORATE BEHAVIOR?

L.E. Fant is informed and thereon believes that Wal-Mart made $11 billion in profit last year, yet it still offers such poor health benefits that only half its workers participate in the company health plan.

Despite such a poor record, last week, Wal-Mart's CEO unashamedly criticized U.S. business for not taking the lead in promoting health care and noted that the Democratic Presidential contenders have failed to make the issue a high priority.

[Only one Presidential candidate is unambiguous on this issue: http://www.votenader.org/]

Superior Readers-L.E. believes this reeks of hyper-hypocrisy on Wal-Mart's behalf and together with so-called “right-to-work” statutes of some states (including our Nevada) make our national allegations of human rights violations of other nations also hypocrisy.

Come on guys-the industrial revolution was some time ago and we supposedly abolished slavery quite a few years back!

YET ANOTHER ABSOLUTELY FREE RECIPE FOR L.E. FANT'S SUPERIOR READERS WHO NEED & DESIRE DECENT, WHOLESOME MEALS MADE FAST & USING AS FEW POTS AS POSSIBLE!

Las Vegas Style Extremely Tasty Yet remarkably easy to make Pork and Healthy Veg. for two:

Maybe in 30 minutes.

Ingredients:
1 Tbs canola oil
1/2 pound boneless lean pork , cut into 3/4" pieces
1 small onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 small red pepper, cut into strips
1 small yellow pepper, cut into strips
juice of 1 orange
juice of 1 lime
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 cup white long grain rice.

Method:
In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Brown the pork cubes on all sides for about 5 minutes. Add the onion and garlic and lower the heat and cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Add the remaining ingredients, cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes (until the pork is tender and cooked through).
Meanwhile prepare one cup (dry) of white long grain rice according to package directions (usually bring 13/4 cups water to boil, add 1tsp margarine or butter, pinch of salt, add rice-stir, cover, reduce heat to low simmer until liquid absorbed and rice is tender. Leave with heat off for 5 minutes, fluff with fork).
Remove cover and increase heat to medium for approximately 5 minutes, until the liquid has reduced to a thick glaze.
Serve over rice.

L.E. is noticing $3.60 per gallon prices as he needs to top off his vehicle's tank.
www.automotive.com/gas-prices

http://www.runyourcarwithwater.com/