RANTINGS BOOKS 1+2

The case: A would-be robber was prevented from holding up a man last month near the Beaverton Transit Center. Police said the hold up was averted by the efforts of officers, victims and a bicyclist who was passing by.

Jentre J. Hoffman, 23, was arrested after he tried to rob a Portland man. TriMet police were on patrol at the center and were drawn to the scene of the would-be robbery by the cries of a teenage girl who was walking with the robbery victim. Hoffman took off as police approached, but a passing cyclist knocked him to the ground, giving police enough time to make an arrest.

Update: On Aug. 10, Hoffman pleaded guilty to third-degree robbery.

What's next: He was sentenced to two years probation, and must complete courses for alcohol abuse, anger management and mental health. He was also ordered to have no contact with his victims.

-- The Oregonian

TriMet has now established a clear, discriminatory policy regarding its passengers.

The first-class rail riders continue to receive freebies from the expensive MAX system with its large, sheltered platforms, Transit Tracker signs and a complete police force. The Portland Streetcar receives $3 million annually despite not being owned or operated by TriMet. The WES system costs $33 per boarding ride to help pay for the "free" wireless Internet and specifically denies ridership to anyone without a credit or debit card. And now, Fareless Square will be exclusive to streetcar and MAX riders.

The steerage-class bus rider is subjected to the oldest, dirtiest and most congested bus fleet on the West Coast where the majority of boarding locations lack sidewalks, shelters or any amenities besides a bus stop sign. One out of three buses lack air conditioning. Buses frequently don't show up on schedule or are so full they must pass up willing riders. And now, bus passengers must pay full fare downtown.

Portland is no longer the leader in transit innovation. Instead, it has established that bus riders are no longer worthy of quality transit, while rail service receives infinite attention and funding.

ERIK HALSTEAD
Tigard