Another Ice Storm

We are bracing for another ice storm today and tomorrow. So far, it's only been rain here, but not too many miles to our north and to our west, ice has already fallen and caused power outages, heavy tree limbs and icy patches on roads. The news reported that the entire town of Lamar, Missouri is dark, without power.

We are all hoping this storm won't be of the same magnitude as the January ice storms that broke so many power lines and utility poles causing widespread outages for weeks at a time. Still, the memory is fresh enough that precaution prevails. Grocery stores have been packed with people stocking up several days' supply of food, generators are flying of the shelves, as are batteries, water, flashlights and propane heaters. For many in the area, it was difficult enough last time. Can't blame them for wanting to be prepared this time around.

As I write this, it's 27 degrees. Certainly if precipitation does fall tonight, ice or snow would be the result. Radar shows a band of showers extending all the way back to Texas and growing. Could be a long night.

Debit Cards and Gasoline

The price of a gallon of gasoline is getting way out of hand. Even the filling stations and convenience stores think so. If you pay by debit card, beware. A store could, legally, put a hold on your checking account until such time as the charge you made against it for gasoline goes through. And, sometimes, that could take several days.

In the meantime, you may not be able to get cash from an ATM and checks you write could bounce. And it's all legal. Banks, credit card companies and gas stations say they need the protection to make sure everyone pays for their fuel. But guess who's liable when checks bounce their way back to your bank? That's right - you.

Stores typically put a hold on amounts ranging from $50 - $150 for gasoline purchases, so if you have that or less in your checking account you could experience some problems. Some stations automatically stop their pumps at a certain dollar level and control the issue that way.

Since nothing has to be posted to warn consumers, just be cautious when using your debit card for gasoline purchases.

Winter Storm

A big winter storm hit the area on Thursday sending temperatures into the teens and dumping anywhere from a trace to our south to 17 inches of snow and ice to our north. We got about two inches of ice and sleet here plus about five inches of snow on top of that. These are a couple shots taken Friday morning after the storm passed. There are a few more photos at YourPanorama.com. Just click on the Photo gallery link on the left sidebar.

Driving was hazardous and, since I live about 35 miles from my office, I decided to work from home rather than risk a wreck. The snow alone would have been all right since my truck is a 4-wheel drive but that won't help in icy conditions. But I did get some work done including a press release announcing the new web site - you can read the release here. I also polished up a few articles that I'll be posting at several article clearinghouse sites hoping that other webmasters will find them, post them on their own sites and link back to YourPanorama.com.