Where I Stand — Ruthe Deskin: Research can help consumers avoid getting ripped off

Tuesday, April 14, 1998 | 10:51 a.m.

The newspaper business can be mighty frustrating at times.

We get just as annoyed as some of our readers when they feel they have been "ripped off" by automobile repair shops.

Alan Becker wrote a letter detailing his problem when he was told that his air conditioner was gone and it would cost $1,805 to repair. He went to another shop and they fixed the problem for $144.04.

Stavros Anthony's situation was much more complicated. It involved shocks, tires, parts and labor. Actually he was out just $48, but as he explained, "It is not a large amount, however the company must do the right thing, live up to their warranty of 12 months or 12,000 miles."

These are just two examples of the kind of complaints we receive.

There's not much we can do about them.

My first advice to anyone with consumer problems is to contact the State Consumer Affairs Division or the Better Business Bureau.

Unfortunately the answer to that suggestion is "we did, but nothing happened."

In the case of the Consumer Affairs Division, I know they are under-staffed and each case requires investigation. The same could be said, I suppose, of the Better Business Bureau.

A newspaper faces a similar situation. We will not print the names of businesses alleged to have misled or cheated customers without making a thorough investigation ourselves. All of which takes time and staff.

So, what can the consumer do?

For one thing get estimates up front. Check the reputations of businesses with whom you intend to deal. Get second opinions if you believe an original estimate is out of line. If you can, take a friend or relative with you before committing to any major repairs.

Above all, don't be intimidated by mechanics and sales persons.

Now if only I had taken that advice.

For emotional impact and even the shedding of a few tears, there's nothing quite so inspirational as the annual commencement ceremony for graduates of the WestCare substance abuse program.

The graduation will be held May 2 at 1 p.m. at the Harris Springs Ranch facility, located off Kyle Canyon Road on the way to Mt. Charleston.

Clients will be honored for their courage and commitment in completing the extensive and sometimes difficult treatment program.

The testimonials of graduates describing their battles with addiction and subsequent roads to recovery always result in tears being shed -- tears of joy for the beginning of a new life.

The ceremonies are open to the public. For directions on how to get there, call WestCare at 385-2090.

Maureen Brower is a busy lady since being appointed to the Governor's Commission on Substance Abuse Education, Prevention, Enforcement and Treatment.

The former assemblywoman is now government affairs coordinator for WestCare so her appointment to the Commission fits right in with her duties at the substance abuse center.

Brower sees the appointment as a "great opportunity to gain a broader look at how substance abuse affects the different areas of the state."

The 13 Commission members meet at least four times a year and are charged with making recommendations to the governor and the Legislature concerning bills that effect drug policy.

Emerging Artists and Talent in Music -- EAT'M for short.

That's the sensational three-day music conference and festival planned for Las Vegas May 14-16.

George McCabe promises this will be the musical event of the year.

The three-day affair -- presented by Las Vegas Events, hosted by the Desert Inn and produced by Tenner Associates -- will feature emerging artists who will appear on 15 stages in and around the Las Vegas Strip and Fremont Street Experience to showcase their talents.

Conference topics will include trends in music, breaking into the business, rock and roll review and dozens of other subjects relative to the business of music.

For registration and further information contact EAT'M at 792-9430.

Doctors once did their diagnosing without benefit of dozens of "tests."

The modern method of referring patients to labs for all kinds of diagnostic exams undoubtedly helps the doctor in his evaluations.

But, a friend who has been X-rayed, sampled, scanned, and suffered a series of bodily intrusions was asked by a medical attendant why she was undergoing a specific test.

"To help pay for that piece of equipment you are using," was her realistic reply.

A bit of humor from Herm Albright to brighten your day:

"Summer vacations are when parents suddenly realize teachers are grossly underpaid."