Commentation

LEDs: Are they worth it?

2014-02-02T08:27:00.001-05:00

With the passing of the incandescent bulb, CFL's and LEDs are now really the alternative. Is it worth it to run out and replace all your light bulbs with LEDs currently? Obviously the first variable is to look at the cost. LED's are still at the rather high end of the spectrum, with most LED's that fit standard sockets still around $7 to $11 a piece. A rather large increase in price from the ole incandescent, and more expensive than CFL's by about 50%.

Lumen, or light output is the second variable to consider. For years, LED's lacked the light output of other technology; however recent advances in technology makes them a more attractive alternative. Energy.gov uses the term efficacy to rate light bulbs, or lumen/watt. This is a ratio that explains how bright the light bulb is, versus the watts consumed. Current top of the line LEDs produce around 800 lumen for around 12 Watts, which is a comparison to a 60W incandescent lumen output. It should be noted that efficacy does not take into account color or temperature.

Lifetime is an area where LEDs currently shine. According to energy.gov LEDs have almost double the life of current CFL and incandescent bulbs. This allows a bit more leeway in the price, as they will last up to three times as long.

Finally their power quality stamp is the last thing to discuss. If considering for a business, or somewhere that is penalized on power factor, consider this. LEDs have a very poor power factor, unless they have power factor correction built into them. Also, due to the way they are designed, using a lighting control system that dim lights by restricting voltage to the lights does not interact with LEDs very well. As the LED voltage falls below 120, it does dim; however the power factor becomes increasingly worse.

My recommendation is before purchasing them for the home, evaluate your home and your budget before purchasing. It my be more efficient in the long run to install track lighting with LEDs rather then purchasing in socket LED replacements. Listed below are some sources to help make the decision a bit easier to make.

http://energy.gov/public-services/homes/saving-electricity/lighting

http://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/how-energy-efficient-light-bulbs-compare-traditional-incandescents

Summer Time Energy Savings

2010-04-14T13:14:00.003-04:00

So, its summer time coming up which means for most of us the air conditioner will be running full time. Here are a few helpful hints to keep your cooling cost down.

1. Laundry. Everybody needs to do laundry, but when you do it and how you do it can make a difference in your cooling. Typically do your laundry in the early morning or late evening so the additional heat doesn't tax your system. Make sure the dryer hose is connected correctly and there are no holes in it. This keeps the excess heat going outside where it should.

2. Lighting. Make sure during the sunny part of the day, the side of the house facing the sun has adequate blinds or shades pulled down to reduce the solar heating. Of course, feel free to use your judgment if it isn't too warm and you wish to enjoy the scenery.

3. Filters. Clean clean clean your filter. The cleaner your filter, the less your unit has to work to maintain an air flow. This is especially important if you have shedding dogs, as their fur can quickly clog up most filters.

4. Windows and Doors. This is an area that most houses have problems with, leaky windows and doors. Make sure that there is a good seal present. A quick check is to purchase a handheld infared thermometer such as this one. They can be found for a range of prices online and in most hardware stores. This can be used around the seals of windows and doors to see if there is heat transfer.

These are just 4 quick tips to help with summer cooling bills.

Green Pleas for Tennessee

2010-03-25T13:04:00.002-04:00

Tonight at the knoxville expo center I will be attending a meet and greet with several local and state aspiring political candidates, including those with aspirations for governor.

Please take note of what we need in Tennessee. We need to enter the 21st century and catch up and take over the lead among states in energy efficiency and alternative energy. We need to establish state rebates for solar, wind and other types of alternate energy installations. We need to invest in re-charge stations for electric vehicles. We need to offer rebates for home owners and home builders to strive for higher efficiency homes, rebates on retrofits for existing homes.

We need to continue to bring in new business. To do so we need to make this an attractive state to operate in. Not just appearances, but financially and technologically. We need to make sure there are affordable options for land lines, internet, satellite and other forms of communications. We need to focus on our parks and land, to keep it clean, utilizing volunteers to the fullest.

We need above all else to focus on keep corporations here, and not losing them to other countries. We need to increase restrictions on education to help the children be prepared in a technological manner. We need to prioritize our schools and make sure they have the money to operate, and the teachers are paid comparable salaries with the rest of the country.

Are any of you candidates experienced enough to do this?

Am I saving money or not?

2010-02-22T14:42:00.003-05:00

Am I saving money or not? Will x device save me money on my energy bill? This is probably one of the most asked questions when it comes to performing upgrades on your house. There are so many "energy savings" devices out there, its hard to know what works, what doesn't, and the load of smoke they blow up your nose when trying to sell a product.

You see so many internet ads claiming this device will save x amount of money over time once you install it. Obviously I am not naming any products names, because there are too many of them out there, and some of these people are so blatantly obnoxious(I have seen them on youtube threaten to "knock their teeth out") that I don't feel like going to court or getting sued.

But, one thing the majority of them do is show you savings based off last years energy bill. Really, that's how they do it. Why is this a bad idea? Why does this not work? Well, for one thing there is no guarantee that for the month of march, in 2009 you used the exact same power as you did in march of 2010. Or 2008, or whatever year they fill like using. Power schemes change from year to year, as does energy usage, as does temperature and weather conditions. Maybe last year was really hot, or really cold and this year was really mild. Why don't they show you from 10 years ago? Or 5? I have seen many years a 18 to 20% difference in energy bills(power used not cost) from corresponding months, based on nothing but a fluke in weather extremes.

Long story short, using energy bills to compare or show savings is a faulty means of correlation. Look for verified lab testing on devices, because that is the ONLY means of proof there can be to identify savings. And make sure the testing was done by a recognized lab, not the manufacture in their garage(I have seen that as well). If this data isn't available, be sure and google the product for blogs or reports that have been published on the device. Or, ask your local utility. They are always willing to help, and many have a list of approved or verified devices that are proved to save energy.

SAving Energy Through Being Smart

2010-02-18T15:05:00.002-05:00

What's that you say? I can save energy by being smart? Well, yeah you can. And it won't cost you a dime.

Leaving the room? Turn off the light, the tv, the radio, the computer, or anything else plugged in that is consuming power.

Going to bed? Adjust the thermostat a bit, you don't need or want the temperature to be 70 degrees at night. Thats what blankets are for.

Use your head and some common sense, you will be great after its all said and done.

Water Savings

2010-01-22T10:03:00.003-05:00

In east Tennessee, we can go from drought to flood conditions in a weeks time. The old saying goes if you don't like the weather stick around a day or two, it will change.

However, rain is not something we should count on, as the drought a few years ago showed us. We need to plan for water for our gardens, flowers and small plants. The easiest and greenest way to do this is to set up a water capture system. It doesn't have to be fancy, and can be done without costing a cent. My great grandmother did it and I remember as a child wondering why bother when you can just turn on a faucet?

To do this effectively, you need to find a location(the more the merrier) where you have water run off during rain, such as a gutter, side of a barn, storage shed, etc. You place a bucket of some type(my great grandmother used a big barrel)in this area to collect the run off water. You will want to use some sort of mosquito net to cover it with, to ensure that you don't get over taken with mosquitos because of the standing water.

When it comes time to water your flower garden, you flower pots, your small vegetable plants, or other items, you simply get your water from the barrel, and use it for your watering needs. This saves you money on your water bill, reduces dependence on water from outside sources, and uses a resource that would otherwise be wasted.

Solar Factory Coming To Clinton

2010-01-21T08:38:00.002-05:00

Just announced last night, there is a solar factory coming to Clinton TN. This is expected to bring in around 400-500 jobs.

This is exceedingly good news for 2 reasons. The first is more solar panels, more off grid support and energy. The second of course is more jobs.

However, dont get too excited yet. People still need to get into the solar idea. Right now, solar is a good supplement, but not the end all of energy solutions. Its best for homes as stand alone or back up power. Especially in east Tennessee, when some springs we can go almost a month with no actual sunlight.

Regardless, the full announcement will be coming this afternoon, so lets hope it spells good news for the people of east Tennessee.

Drama Llama Strikes again

2009-11-12T10:44:00.002-05:00

Ahh, to be a "celebrity" in this world would be amazing. Guest shows, talk circuit, people following your every move.

Being caught in lie after lie and still trying to blame everybody else. Poor Carrie Prejean, if only she would have had the common sense to not act offended when the past is released about her. For somebody claiming the moral high ground, she sure is taking the low road a lot lately. Lied about nude pictures, lied about a sex tape, insulted half the people in California. Actually, of all the things she has done, that is the one I respect from her. Sure her opinion on gay marriage pissed off half the world, but at least she was honest and true to herself over that.

Unfortunately, her honesty fell to the wayside on other details.

Oh, and she made quite the fool of herself on Larry King last night.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1R0a9xq6uek

Attn Car Dealers: Games you play

2009-10-29T08:46:00.002-04:00

You would think after the beating the auto industry has received, that they would be a little less likely to be playing the same tired old games that turned people off in the past. Let me give you some advice on how to get more business, and how to not have people get mad and walk off the lot.

Advertisement. Advertising through online postings, your own websites, or even sites like craigslist greatly can increase your visibility. And I realize you want to the person to call or get on your lot so you can unload your sales pitch. However, one thing you must absolutely realize is people search online first. We will compare prices and models with other lots. If you don't have the following information, you won't even get a second glance.

Price Price Price! For the love of all that is shiny put the price of the car on there. I don't care what you think, or how you try to get cute, but putting "Ask for price in person" is not going to get me or most people to your lot. And when somebody calls and ask for the price, blowing them off with "its a value, not a price" just pisses me off. Its not a value, its a tool, its a car, its a price. Put it up there. If you are worried about your prices being higher then others, look at your business model and quit being greedy. A truck with 200k miles, dents and bangs all over it is not worth $9,000 no matter how you spin it.
Mileage. Put the mileage on there. Low miles to you may not be low miles to the next person. Sometimes there is miles with no price, sometimes price with no miles. Both need to be clearly indicated.
General information. Is it a manual or automatic? 4x4 or 2wd? V8 or V6? This is the very important information. Things like floor mats and options like that are not as important. That can be added or changed for little or no money, the others is a deal breaker.

These three things are crucial for internet shoppers, and I have many a time passed over a potentially good deal because this information is not available.

Next step, when you get them in the lot, listen to what they say. Don't automatically have a car that is "perfect" for them. I will walk off and not look back once this crap starts. If you don't have what I want, be honest. I will ask you for your card and exchange information with you at that point because you were honest. If you try to sell me something I didn't ask for I am gone.

If for some reason you don't have the price on the car ( a big no-no) and I ask for a price, tell it to me. Don't give me a line about needing to ask your manager, or needing me to fill out some paperwork. Give me the price. There is a lot on Clinton Hwy I recently walked out on because nobody would tell me the price. I got a huge spill about it depends on the color of the sky at the time, and the polar alignment of Venus and Mars. Maybe it was something else, I tuned them out when they started their preprogrammed speech. The funny part was watching the sales manager come running out asking me to come back in. Anyway, neither here nor there but sales managers, makes sure your salesmen have updated price sheets.

Assuming the buyer gets through all this, the next part is the haggling. I think a few people enjoy it, some go just to do it, personally I despise it. It takes forever, and a lot of running on the legs of the salesman running back and forth to the sales or finance manager. Personally I think they have a poker game going on in the back of the office, and its just an excuse to go play a hand. I can't give any advice on this, except when somebody starts to haggle, just take them to the decision maker and let them duke it out.

Dealers have received my advice, now buyers, here is some for you. If you are 2 months late on 6 credit cards, have 2 repossessions and a pending foreclosure, be honest with the salesman. Some lots have financing that can help, others don't. But if you lead the salesman on and waste his time, and their finance departments time, then they find out all this on your credit report, you lose all bargaining position. When you great the salesman, tell him what you are after(car, truck, etc) also tell him your financial standing, along with any positive( been on the job 12 years). Let the salesman know up front what they are looking at. It helps everybody for you to be honest.

Buying a car does not need to be a stressful endevour. Once you find a lot/salesperson you trust, it makes it easier. There are several lots I have been too that I haven't bought from, but because of the nice sales people and their business ethics, I will someday buy from.

Preston at Lance Cunningham Ford. I have bought 2 cars from this gentleman, and the experience is always awesome
Cars Etc in halls TN. I have yet to buy from here, but will at some point because they are upfront and honest in all the dealings I have had with them.
Cogdill Dodge I have bought from before, and may again someday.

I obviously am not going to post the ones I had problems with( all I need is some greedy lawyer trying to sue me) but use your head when shopping.

Condemnation for Rape Watchers

2009-10-28T11:07:00.002-04:00

By now most people have heard of the tragic gang rape that occurred in California. A girl was gang raped for over 2 hours outside of her school homecoming dance. Not only is this disgusting and tragic enough, what makes this even more horrifying is police believe up to 10 people stood around and watched it happen.

How dare you call yourselves human and watch this young juvenile girl get repeatedly raped. Police believe up to 4 or 5 actually raped her over the course of 2 hours, and that several people stood and watched and did nothing! Did nothing! Did none of you scum have a cell phone that you could have dialed 911 with? Did none of you bother to run to the school for help? Why are none of you coming forward now? How would you feel if that was your friend, your sister, your daughter and you found out about it?

Its horrible enough she was raped, even worse by multiple people, but even inconceivable that it all happened while people stood and watched, and even a couple may have participated as well. This is a sign of whats wrong with this country. If even one of you had any balls, or any courage this poor girl would not be in the shape she is in, and the dregs of society that did this would all be in jail now, or at least identified.

How do you sleep at night, or look yourself in the mirror? I hope none of you are sleeping at all, and every second of every day is filled with the horror of what you witnessed, and that your conscience has finally awoken and is making your life a living hell. You can ease it somewhat by coming forward and telling what you know!

Know that every problem this young girl suffers is your fault, know that every bruise, every second of mental anguish is your fault. You may not have done the deed, but you stood by and allowed it to happen, which is as bad as those who did the deed themselves.

Prayers go out to this young girl, her family and friend, and many hopes to the police investigating this that they will catch not only the participants, but the cowardly watchers as well. I hope the prosecuting attorney goes after them all.

Swine Flu Emergency

2009-10-27T12:44:00.002-04:00

So now we have a swine flu emergency, penned and brought into effect Friday night. What do they know we don't? They aren't even testing for, nor reporting swine flu cases anymore. This move among many others seems to be either a smokescreen or a front runner for something else.

Smoke screen? What could it be a smoke screen for? The H1N1 has never been as deadly, or transmittable as seasonal flu, so why the big fuss? How did a vaccine get on the market this fast? Why does the H1N1 show signs of genetic modification? Some reasonable theories of mine are there is something else out there that has been, or will be released in the near future. They now have a good idea of transmit time to get a disease spread almost world wide in merely a weeks time. This appears to have all started in one general area. Imagine now if something that was this infectious was released in several locations? In my opinion, this was a test run of something. Perhaps it is merely being used as an example of how bad health care reform is, and how much they want to cram their version of reform down our throat. Perhaps more sinister, but one thing everybody can agree on is the baffling amount of press response this gets. Enough to overlook other things going on.

One thing to remember and to look for, is when the media gets a whiff of something and they all focus on it(balloon boy?) there is something going on that will not be covered.

The government promised over 100 million vaccines by October, which they have fallen very short of. Why? Some additional studies showing more problems with the vaccine? Not enough problems with the vaccine? Or did it look just too dang obvious that this "vaccine" was developed, tested, and manufactured in 4 to 5 months?

Yes, some will read this and blow it off as a grand ole conspiracy theory, and that's fine. However if only one person reads this and ponders "what if" or looks a little harder at news reports and medical reports and reads between the lines, then its worth it.

Think for yourselves, and don't take any thing the government, the media, or other people tell you as fact.

Resistance is Futile

2009-08-20T09:24:00.002-04:00

Ah Star Trek, the Next Generation gave us the borg, and the beginning of the popular, resistance is futile, you will be assimilated. Those were the first words through my head this morning as I read this wonderful tidbit.

"Dozens of the nation's largest insurance firms must decide whether to honor a request from House Democrats for detailed financial records, part of an investigation into executive compensation and other business practices in an industry that opposes President Barack Obama's health care proposals." Source

So here is the short of it, the insurance companies have been opposing Obama's pet reform plan, so now the white house is going after the insurance companies. Sound familiar? First the banking industry, then the auto industry, now the insurance industry. I know Obama's stalewart followers will hoot and holler saying its time to bring the wealthy to their knees. I say, keep the governement out of the private sector. While this is going on, more jobs and homes are being lost, and Obama is just smiling and telling everybody its going to be ok, his plans will work. Sorry, they aren't.

Its time to keep some of those campaign promises, be honest. Tell the American people the truth, of how the economy is borked. Tell them about the immenent failure of banks coming soon. Tell them about the new record deficit. Tell us about the record debt this country has.

Time for real honesty.

H1N1

2009-08-17T12:05:00.002-04:00

Swine flu, H1N1 season is about to start, according to the CDC and WHO. Well, about to start as in they guess it will be starting based on seasonal flu. The internet is full of horror stories, conspiracies, facts and fiction concerning this next round of the flu. There are rumors of forced vaccinations, martial law, the military joining in, etc etc. New information comes out daily.

Personally, no I will not get it, even if it is "required". The only time I have been vaccinated against even the normal flu, was over 10 years ago, and it made me sick as a dog. But the H1N1 is a different beast. It appears to be genetically created, combining avian flu, swine flu and human flu together. While there is no proof, hard proof, there is reason to believe so based on the variations contained there in.

Here is some of the latest news from the vaccinations and other internet rumors.

The vaccination is deadly. Well, there is proof starting to appear from this, and not just from internet conspiracty forums. The vaccination comes from a diseased monkey and apparently has several nasty side affects. One of the side affects is Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) which causes paralysis, lack of breathing, and death.

Forced Vaccinations. This is already occuring in some parts of the world, even in the USA.

Greece has mandatory vaccinations.
England is planning on it.
New York City is requiring it of health care professionals(this in my area as well, my mother was informed of this)

None of the links I am providing are from conspiracy sites, most are from mainstream media, which I try to find at all times.

Martial law: As of now, aside from refusing to repeal the Bush Administration freedoms and laws concerning this, there is only speculation concerning martial law. A CNN article concerning military being used is started this, and the forced vaccination speculation in the US.

So, from a non conspiracy point of view, there is things happening here in even the US that will give pause to all but the most hardened skeptic. Just remember, keep your hands washed, eat healthy, and if you are sick, with a fever, the flu, or anything, stay home away from other people, we dont want your germs.

Health Care Reform

2009-08-12T12:36:00.002-04:00

Health care reform is looming large in the news, and seems to be a make or break issue for President Obama. The depths to which this is being pushed, is dividing the nation. Obama's supporters have always been among the most passionate and fervent people in the country, so they are taking it upon themselves to be the front runners in his latest campaign.

But at what cost? The country is being divided daily, and while not to blame, they are a part of the problem, as is the extreme other side of the view. Celebrities(I use that term loosely) such as Rush and Glen Beck have whipped the anit-Obama supporters into just as violent frenzy. It doesn't matter which side is right or wrong, nor does it matter which side starts it, its time for the American people to end it.

This country has, since 9/11, been dividing based on any number of factors. The war on terror, the economy, the election, the loss of constitutional rights, health care reform, housing, jobs, and even the role of normal Americans in this new world we are entering.

Before anybody goes to protest or support at a rally, there are some simple things one needs to do. First, read the bill in its entirity before asking questions or getting inflamed. You may find that your view point is just factually wrong. Become an informed, not inflammed protestor.

Remember the person whose view differs from you is not unpatriotic, racist, idiot, left/right wing nutjob, liberal stoogie, or any other term people use to group those who do not share their viewpoint into. Attack the topic, not the person. They have a family and loved ones, and may be scared about the reform just as much as you are.

Last, keep it civil. There is enough violence, and if things are not drawn to a halt there will be even more division in the country.

Health care reform is needed, desperately, but lets be honest, its not something that should be done all at once, nor pushed and rushed. And please, the questions and concerns needs to be addressed, and answered honestly, not shrugged off as stupid or not worthy of time.

As Americans, we have the right to make our voice heard, but please, do so in a civil well thought out manner. Violence only creates more violence.

The world we know

2009-07-06T16:13:00.002-04:00

It is hard to get through a day without being confronted with the problems the world, American, and even Tennessee itself is facing. Our national debt has doubled this year, now well over 11 trillion dollars. Jobs are disappearing faster then they are appearing, and the economy is shrinking at a rapid rate. I suppose it was some experiences I encountered this weekend that brought it into sharp focus for me.

I got up early Saturday, with the intent of doing some car shopping. Jim Cogdill Dodge ran an add Friday night and had some cars on it I was interested in. I arrive in west knoxville a little after 10, and they were closed. I figured they would open up maybe around noon, so I decided to drive around a bit and look at other cars. First thing I noticed, was kingston pike was all but deserted. If you live in knoxville, you understand how rare this is. Second thing I noticed was more car lots were actually closed then open. On a saturday, and a holiday! I didn't expect them to be open all day, in fact I assumed most would close around 3 or 4. To be met with closed lots, no drivers on roads, got me thinking.

Are we as Americans giving up to our fate? Have we decided to roll over and wait for the government to bail us out? Cars gone, jobs gone, homes gone, gas up, food up, people pinching pennies every chance they get. Do Americans honestly believe that bigger more controlling government is the option? I hope not. It was just sad to see so few people out and about on independence day. Nothing like past independence days.

Its time to wake up and take back control of our lives. Don't wait on the government, they will keep spending and sending money to the rich and wealthy, middle class and below wont be seeing a dime. The sooner Americans realize this, the quicker we can recover.

Sarah Palin Gone?

2009-07-06T16:05:00.002-04:00

Among all the hype and publicity of Michael Jacksons death, there was other news in well, the news. Sarah Palin has resigned from her post as governor of Alaska. This is a very surprising move, especially by somebody who was rumored to have presidential hopes.

Of course internet sites are filled to the rim with rumours and speculations about this. Only time will tell what the real reasons were. I do find it suspiciuos that this is the second Republican governor who has recently drew attention. South Carolinas governor is expected to step down soon as well.

Youtube and copyright

2009-03-25T12:59:00.002-04:00

I am sure many of you are like me, and getting frustrated as hell over youtube removing songs and videos because of copyright infringement.

Artist, musicians, companies, let me explain something to you. Something you may not and obviously don't get. The fact that somebody takes the time to create a well done, artistic video, (something a lot of artist can't do)with your song as the backdrop means they like the music. These people have done more to turn me on to more songs and artist then any other means. And by you having them removed, it turns me off. You are getting absolutely free advertising of your music. A lot of people like me will see a good video, go straight to itunes and purchase the song.

Does it hurt you that somebody uses your song in a video and post it on the web? No, not in the least. Are you afraid somebody will hold up a tape player and record a fuzzy version of your song and get it for free? Most would rather pay $0.99 through itunes and get the high quality version.

Its free advertising, it gets your song out there, and it causes you no harm. So stop doing it already!!

Bartering

2009-03-12T09:51:00.002-04:00

The act of trading, or bartering fills some people with extreme excitement, and others with extreme dread. However, in the current economy, people are turning to trade as a means to acquire what they need. One mans junk is another mans treasure. Food for labor, labor for materials, material for material, cars for trucks, etc etc. If you have it, somebody wants it.

All items, services, thoughts, have a value to them. For instance, I can do basic web design, and also have my own hosting service. I can trade my ability to design a website and maintain it for a vehicle, dental work, food, or whatever based on what my client needs or wants. A lot of people want money, but when a lot of people dont have money, maybe its best to go back to a trading means?

One thing people have confusion over is how to place a value on their items/services for barter. And not wanting to get shorted, or short somebody else. For cars, look around and find a trade value or dealer value, these are good indicators of what your car could barter for. Cash price would be less, usually by 20% or so.

The best place I have found for bartering is craigslist. I usually get emails within minutes of putting something up for trade. Also a lot of areas have started a bartering website for the communities. Look around online to see what you can find.

Stimulus time again

2009-02-17T12:35:00.002-05:00

Ah that time of year, when the stimulus package is working its way through congress. Such a happy time, expecting so much help from the government.

Only to find out it is the equivalent of getting cold coal for Christmas as a kid. Nothing in there is going to help anybody out, except the ones who have lost their jobs. I am beginning to believe nobody has a clue on how to fix the economy, other then throw money at it like a monkey flinging poo. And if it keeps up, that's pretty much going to be the equivalent of our money, a big pile of stinking monkey poo.

As I am writing this, the DOW is down a couple hundred points again. Overseas markets were all tanked again over night.

Foreclosures and job loss is up again. How is the stimulus going to help? Where is that money going to go to help them? Well, to be honest, no where. Where is the help for schools? So many school districts are facing shortfalls, there is more job losses coming.

The auto industry needs help. I know, its on the books right now, and I know as well most Americans just think screw em, let them fail. Take a minute and think about how catastrophic this will be to the economy, and the job industry. Think of your neighbors who work at that plant down the road. Now try and remember what they said they do there. Yeah, auto parts manufacture. Not for napa, or autozone, but for GM directly. What happens to those plants when the big three fail. They will lose their job as well.

The economy is getting worse, nose diving and bellyfloping on the pond of life. Only suggestions I have is to plan ahead. If you can afford an extra couple cans of non perishable food, or find a deal on buy one get one free deodorant, grab it. Keep what you can built up, it could be your job gone tomorrow.

Ramifications of TVA Ash spill

2009-01-05T12:08:00.002-05:00

A large environmental disaster has occurred in Roane county Tennessee. A dam has broken spilling ash from a coal plant across the countryside. The results of this has been misplaced home owners, dead fish and animals, and extremely high levels of arsenic in the drinking water. 100 times the suggested safe levels to be exact.

There are many concerns surrounding this disaster. First is the enviroment. Pictures are showing up online of shoreline littered with dead fish. This will spread to the birds and other animals that make fish a large part of their diet. It also contributes to the already stank odor in the air just from the spill

Next is the residents and homeowners in the area. Many are being relocated, during the holidays of all times, and are unable to return to their homes. Their homes, their cars their dream, last in a wave of ash. Several lawsuits are already filed, and Erin Brochevich herself is coming to view the area. With a team of New York lawyers of course.

Last is the arsenic in the water. The EPA reported it is 100 times the safe level, but tap water is safe to drink. Consuming arsenic contributes to bladder and kidney failure, increase the rate of cancer, and is generally not safe at all.

Currently TVA is seeding the area with grass seeds to try and contain it as much as possible, although I think this idea is rather stupid. The grass will be eaten by herbivores at some point, passing arsenic on to the carnivores. A rather long and tedius cycle.

As it stands now, there is high level of arsenic, cadmium and lead in water, air and earth in the area. The end results will not be realized for many years to come. Suprisingly, there is not a lot in the news except locally about this. I only hope more word gets out and more people become aware of what is happening.

Mr. Obama's Challenges

2008-11-07T10:44:00.002-05:00

As predicted, Obama is now the president of the USA. He is facing more challenges then any other candidate before him has. Two wars, a decaying economy, horrible job market, housing problems, and general disaster at home and abroad.

The first thing he needs to do it begin fixing the economy. Step one of this is put his foot down on Pilot, BP, Shell, Exxon and the like. Curb their prices, disallow the price control they exhibit over this country. If they have record billion dollar profits, they are doing something wrong. Once gas is regulated, food and utililty prices will come down a bit.

Second is the jobless problem. This will take longer because jobs have to be created, and money has to be available to do so.

Third the wars. He has promised to continue to fight Al Queda, and pull the troops out of Iraq. Good luck with that.

International policy. Yes, world leaders are rejoicing. Rejoicing we have an untested, untried president. Russia is thumbing their nose in your face by expaning their missle policy, china owns us through trade debt, plus the middle east.

Time to drop the change we need, all for change, hold hands dance and be lovely dovey. Time to get firm, decisive, and make the change that the country needs.

Foreclosure pains

2008-10-31T13:02:00.003-04:00

Its getting to the point now, where almost daily the news reports somebody doing something drastic when the repo man comes for their home. There have been reports of suicides, chaining, fights, desecration and more.

I know times are tough, and people are struggling, but killing yourself doesn't hurt the banks. And it leaves family and friends with the burden of having to bury you. Think of them before you kill yourself.

Why the Republicans will lose this election

2008-10-23T09:20:00.002-04:00

Yes, I am calling it now. The republicans will and have already lost this election. They are not even trying anymore.

It began with Sarah Palin. I understand that it was political, to get a women in for VP pick. However in this case it was the wrong choice. She is and was mired in controversy in her home state of Alaska. This alone should have been reason enough not to pick her. But by picking her McCain destroyed his claims of inexperience on Obama. If something were to happen to McCain, Palin would become president. She is not experienced enough to handle that, and the American people know and understand this.

The next major failing is their inability to handle the racist remarks coming from their supporters at their rallys. McCain had the decency to look embarressed, but did nothing to stop the hecklers. As much as he proclaims himself to be decisive, he appears terribly undecisive when facing these dregs of humanity.

Their poll numbers are collapsing daily, and Obama really doesn't have to do anything except to not make a political, or personal gaffe. The republicans I believe know this, and are throwing the rest of the election. The main reason is the disaster the country is in. The shape of Amreica cannot be fixed in 4 years. Progress can be made, but not a complete and utter recovery. In 4 years the republicans will be back to rescue America, or that will be how they play it. The fickle Americans who love to debate over sports, cars and American Idol will believe the new stance, and we will have a Republican again for 4 or 8 years, to undo the mess of the Democrats. It will be the same type of campaign that allowed our current president to remain in power for 8 years.

Policies and politcs change with the wind, and the American peoples opinion goes with it. Who knows the shape we will be in come 2012, but one thing will be certain, there will be a Republican who is young, experienced and ready to attack Obama running a smooth and slick campaign.

Barack Obama and the Sheeping of America

2008-10-21T11:21:00.002-04:00

Not since JFK have Americans fallen in love with a candidate so completely, and not since Bill Clinton has there been such a polished and articulate public speaker. Obama firmly has America under his sway, hanging on every word, every moment. Obamamites, as I like to call them, believe he is the messiah, can do no wrong, will fix every problem, and will lead America to a glowing new age. A few see him for what he is, and that is a politician.

Make no mistake, Obama is brilliant, articulate, well groomed, and very charismatic. However, and this is not a slam against him, he is a politician. This campaign has turned into a mudslinging campaign, finding it hard to seperate fact from fiction.

There are in my opinion, 3 types of Obama supporters.
Type 1: Obamamites. These are the ones who are turning this into a religious experience. He can do, and has done no wrong, is Jesus re-incarnated and will be the saviour of the country. Comments about Obama are responded to with accusastion of racism, or anti American, or being stupid, or part of a Rovian comspiracy to undermine the election. They are fanatics of the worst kind.

Type 2: The Traditional Democrat. These are the people who vote democrat, no matter what. They would never dream of voting any other way. Their parents, friends, family have always voted democrat, and they are a proud follower of this tradition.

Type 3. The "He is the lesser of two evils" type. This is actually two subtypes. People in this catagory have reservations about him. Either based on his policy, or his past voting history. The other half are of the he is not bush camp. People in this catagory typically have thought this out, compared the two on their own, and are voting based on the difference between the two campaigns.

There may be a few other types, but for the most part, his supporters fall into one of these three categories.

Obama himself has a large lead, probably unsurmountable without a major mistake on his or Bidens part. And honestly, as cliched as it is, this country needs change right now. Record foreclosures, record gas, record bankruptcies and unemployement has the average American scared about the future. But can or will Obama fix it?

First is can he fix it. At this point, there will be drastic actions that will be needed to "fix" most of the problems. He will have congressional support for a while, and will get to pass a few things. His tax plan is decent enough, and should help middle and lower America. His energy plan however is unsubstantiated and will not alleviate that problem. Plus he never really explains where he will get the majority of the funding to do what he wants. He says he will cut government spending, but how much? He will instantly lose support if he starts cutting out pet projects and people paycheck. Like every other politician before him, he will have to toe the line between feasible and doable.

Will he fix it. Once again, he will make attempts, but if past voting history is an example, it will not be something the people want. Do not forget, he voted yes to FISA. Against everything he has claimed, he preached, he voted to enable eavesdropping, and to not prosecute those who have and did. He also voted for the bailout bill, even though every economist said it was a bad idea. Granted McCain did as well.

He also voted against a Low income energy amendment to increase funding for this program. (Bill Number: HR 3010)

Has voted for defense budgets as are.

Has had a large number of NV in the past year( primarily so they can't be held against him).

Vote for Obama if you think he can help this country, but don't vote for him because you think he will change it all. You will be dissapointed. He is above all else, a politician.

Meals Cheap

2008-10-15T08:40:00.002-04:00

Most people right now are struggling for money and trying to find places to cut back, save an extra dollar anyway they can. Many look to cut cost everywhere, but food.

If you want to make a serious attempt at saving money, quit eating out first and foremost. Secondly, use some coupons. Honestly, coupons can save a lot of money if you use them correctly. Correctly? Is there a wrong way? Sure there is. Don't buy something you don't need just because you have a coupon for it.

Here is my list for a weeks shopping.

1 Loaf of bread. Get the two pound kind if your store carries it.
1 dozen eggs
2 lbs of meat
2 boxes of hamburger helper
2 boxes of rice.
5 cans of soup
1 pack of cheese
1 package of sandwhich meat
2 green peppers
1 cucumber
1 12 pack of generic mountain dew
1 box of oreos.

Mix and match various things to fit your taste buds. Remember, we aren't trying to get the best, but survival food. You want to spend only about $30/week on groceries if possible. The average person will spend around $100/week on food, including eating out and buying groceries that sit on the shelf and rot or go uneaten. If you can do this, thats an easy $200 a month in your pocket.