See Hot Topics forum on this site for why.

bboy, which topic are you referring to?

The economy.

The rising cost of fuel, the endless news reports of landslides and trees still falling, the rising cost of food, hotels, restaurants, shortages in staples beginning to show up on store shelves, housing going down the drain, foreclosures at record levels, job losses, over 50% Americans now have more house debt than equity, the bond market freezing, panic, inflation, falling dollar value, etc etc etc.

Yeah, those.

I know how you feel. I've got a an apartment loan on the coast of WA and it got hit really bad. Nobody in town has time or the expertise to fix it. Sad that nature can do that even here.

I've been to the coast three times this year and the roads are clear. The news reports are scaring people away.

Sorry if this is a dumb question, but is there a Hot Topics Forum here? If so, where?
It's really tough when so many factors combine to hit an area at the same time. I really enjoyed our one trip to the Oregon Coast so maybe we will try to do that again. Unfortunately, we can't bring plants back to Canada. I love visiting gardens so would like to go when the gardens are in bloom.

Look for it in the list on the home page, it's there. Lots of activity, too bad people aren't as interested in plants and gardening as on pontificating about politics etc.

Although, Antique Roses does remain active as well. Is the common denominator prickliness?

Oregon coast gardens to visit:

http://www.conniehansengarden.com/

http://www.shoreacres.net/

Does anyone know of others?

Last night I was reminded California is running TV ads beckoning people to come out for a visit, has spots from the Governator, Rob Lowe etc. Associated address is something like visit.california.com.

I love visiting the Oregon coast. It's a blast to drive out, hit a bunch of wineries and do some tastings on the way, find a random little restaurant and grab a bite to eat once we get out there, then sit on the beach and drink some wine while we enjoy a sunset. Can't go wrong spending a random day (or weekend) doing that - it's a joy every single time. :0)

Unfortunately, if I wanted to go to nurseries or gardens I'd probably be going alone. Don't think I'd be able to talk any of my friends into it.

Well what's wrong with them?! Tch! Imagine!

The beaches south of Grays Harbor were packed with people this afternoon - clam digging opening. Hopefully the shops, restaurants, hotels were getting a boost from the crowd, but me? Didn't stay and spend any money, I got wet for the first time in many years (sneaker wave), filled my hip boots, and came home soggy and sandy. And hungry, I'd planned on Mexican dinner in Westport.

Buyorsell, that was a good point though. DH often works two days, stays one night a week in Seaside and since December 3, many times he and our tech have had the only two rooms occupied at the hotel. I don't know how these people are making it....

Sinfonian, contractors are still working under a 'take a number, get into line' policy since the storm, with those who have more urgent needs being priority. I did get glass back into my porch this week, and the masonry company is telling me possibly as soon as next week to replace my now missing chimney. The roofer will follow him - but my house has been sound and secure where many others weren't so fortunate.

Where does he stay in Seaside? I often stay at the Comfort Inn and like it but could use another hotel.

Seaside Convention Center Inn weekly for about the last three years. Recently, when the staff sees the truck pull in late afternoon, they've been putting chocolate chip cookies in the microwave for them for a warm snack and to make them feel welcome after a long day of work.

They haven't increased (business) rates at all either which we hugely appreciate

Thanks

"Well what's wrong with them?! Tch! Imagine!"

No kidding. Don't worry, I'm in the market for some new friends. :0P