http://www.tigardtimes.com/opinion/index.php Portland and surrounding area community news and information http://www.tigardtimes.com/opinion/story.php?story_id=126767041761483900 2010-03-04 00:00:00 http://www.tigardtimes.com/opinion/story.php?story_id=126767041761483900 en-us Schouten best choice for commission chairman In our troubled economy, who in Washington County would be best to help guide us to prosperity as the next chairman of the Board of Commissioners? Dick Schouten, currently a commissioner, is the clear choice. He has been a leader in Washington County ... http://www.tigardtimes.com/opinion/story.php?story_id=126767033318364100 2010-03-04 00:00:00 http://www.tigardtimes.com/opinion/story.php?story_id=126767033318364100 en-us Deciding public policy oftentimes is not an easy task. It frequently requires that elected officials set aside differences, compromise and ultimately agree on what is generally best for the common good of the citizens and communities being served. Such a case is coming to a boil locally. At issue ... http://www.tigardtimes.com/opinion/story.php?story_id=126767014370734900 2010-03-04 00:00:00 http://www.tigardtimes.com/opinion/story.php?story_id=126767014370734900 en-us For decades, bankers have gotten a free ride from American taxpayers. The U.S. Department of Education currently subsidizes student loans to the tune of $9 billion every year. Banks service these loans, collect the debt, keep the interest and turn a profit. When borrowers default on their loans, ...