Thursday, February 05, 2009

Political observation

Yesterday I read an article that there might be an addition to the new economic stimulus package in which new car purchased will be subsidized by tax breaks. I undertand the attempt to try to prop up the auto industry, but I just wanted to hear someone say that putting more cars on the road is working against the country's stated goal of energy independence. Instead of subsidizing more auto purchases, I would rather see more subsidies for mass transit - especially rail service. Those troubled auto manufacturers oculd help produce the new engines and technology to run this mass transit (in addition to building the rail cars themselves).

Also, I wanted to note that this proposed subsidy would cover up to 49,500 towards the purchase of a new car. That's interesting that the threshold is so high, as often the more expensive cars are less fuel efficient.

Just an observation I wanted to share as I prepare for today's Global Warming Teach In day.

Sunday, February 01, 2009

Skating Machine



Henry loves playing hockey. He is the next generation of the Goons. I can't wait until he can say to me 'Dad, let's go play some hockey' and then he and I and Meg will all go to the outdoor rink and we'll have a great time. Here's some photos from today's skate.

Super Bowl Thoughts

As I'm watching the Super Bowl tonight, a couple things are crossing my mind. Going into the game, I really didn't care who wins. However, after the first few minutes, I was so annoyed with how much the announcers were in love with Ben Roethlisburger (I know, that's not Ben's fault) that I just couldn't help myself but root against Pittsburg.

Once I decided to root for the Cardinals, I found it interesting how a game I really didn't care about would get me all riled up. Really, I don't care at all who wins, but the human emotion (at least mine) finds itself getting invested in something and letting it affect me.

I really thought there was going to be more qushing love given to Kurt Warner, being such a big comeback type year and underdog story, but so far it hasn't been that way. I have to admit I am pleasantly suprised, as that was the one thing I had going against Arizona going into this game.

You know that statement that about how you're supposed to seek the permission of the NFL for any rebroadcast, transmission or description of the events is allowed? What is that statement all about? I understand the rebroadcast part, but the description? Am I not allowed to say that the Steelers just ran back an interception for a touchdown (pending review) at the end of the half? That is ridiculous. MLB does that too - not only is it not enforceable, I don't see how that could even be legal. If I go to a game, they can't limit my freedom of speech to describe what I saw.

That being said, what an end of the half!