July 19, 2008 — 9:46 PM

Big changes are afoot

For the past couple of months my local Safeway has been undergoing some major renovations. They have kept the store open throughout the process. But I have sometimes wondered if it wouldn't have made more sense to shut down for a few days and just work hard without having to work around employees, shoppers, and delivery people. This whole working and being open thing has made for some very annoying shopping outings.

Today I was there again and I actually saw signs of progress. Places that had been blocked off for work were now re-opened with shiny new counters and layout. And floor tile that had been ripped up was now replaced making the whole place seem brighter.

The biggest bummer of the trip was having to double back several times because much of the inventory has been moved around and the signage is only moderately helpful. When I finally found all that I had come to buy, I made my way to the checkout area. I was happy to discover that I had fewer than 15 items allowing me to go through the express lane.

As I made my way to that end, I noticed something new - six new self-checkout stands! I totally went that route. Besides having to wait for the employee assigned to trouble shoot this area to reset the machine that seemed to have crashed, the experience was very easy and quick.

Those are not terms I would typically use of my checkout experience at this Safeway. Hooray for technological advancements!

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July 15, 2008 — 8:20 PM

Presbyterians get a shout out on NPR

Today on my way home from work I was listening to the afternoon offering on NPR of the program "All Things Considered." For the year or so that I was not a regular commuter I really missed having my daily dose of "Morning Edition" and "ATC." Since my commute is only 35-45 minutes long, I never get to hear the whole program. That's okay with me. I still get to enjoy hearing the top headlines and a few in-depth stories.

One of the main stories that I got to listen to today was about the role that the National Guard continues to play in New Orleans. The NOPD continues to struggle with handling the demands of areas that are still only partially inhabited and thus more susceptible to crime. This is where the Guard come in very handy.

As the story progressed, the reporter talked with one woman who gave all the credit for her being able to move back to New Orleans to two groups - the Presbyterian volunteer workers and the National Guard. In that order.

It was so nice to hear nice words about how members of my larger church have had an impact on the world. So often the news media focus on our in-fighting and possible splits.

Go Presbyterians!

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