Hi Everyone,

 Its that time again. Meeting tomorrow night (Wednesday, June 17th) 6pm. Salem Hospital, Basement Room D. 

 I would like to start a cook book to share so if you would like to share your recipe please bring them to the meeting. I'll be collecting them over the next few meetings then I'll start putting them together and when finished I'll bring them for anyone who would like a copy. 

 I'll see everyone tomorrow night.

 Pam

Lori! 

I haven't seen you online in ages..................hope life is treating you well.  We still have a trip to Multnomah Falls.............just let me know when. 

Its certainly an interesting little town!  My family (dad, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.) have lived there in some form or another for over 60 years.

The weather is wonderful -- especially for winter storm watching.  It doesn't get too hot in the summer (I think they may have reached 100 once or twice but its a rarity from what I recall).

One of the problems you might face, though, is that they're very protective of their area from outsiders (hey, its a western thing, I guess -- the Tom McCall "you're welcome to visit now go home" attitude).  Because of my family ties I wouldn't be seen as much of an outsider as the typical person moving in.

The whole area is very depressed economically.  Finding quality anything can be a challenge -- at least until you get to be known.  Walmart has really taken over most of your purchasing opportunities but there's still Fred Meyers...

Schools, because the economy is so bad (and has been for many, many years), aren't the best.  I'm not the best to answer this question because I feel you get out of your education what you put into it.  There is a community college in the area, too, for some extra education.

I wouldn't want to move to the area unless you didn't need a job or if you had a service-related job (like a retail sales clerk).  Many of the government jobs are held (or given) to family members.

All of that being said, Coos Bay/North Bend is certainly my second home (Vancouver is my first but its starting to get too big for me!) and I love it and the people dearly.

McMinnville has a lapband group why cant we? Anyone interested in meeting up West of Portland? I live in Beaverton Near Highway 26.

Post here, giving me an idea where you are and we can pick a middle point for coffee or something or since school is out if there are those with kids we can meet at a park and talk while the kids play.

Tina

I am planning to go see Dr. T in 3-4 wks if you want to carpool??