Perhaps the larger issue is that people are looking for alternative fuels as an all or nothing proposition. Ethanol as a substitute for gasoline is a loser for many reasons (read here: http://economicefficiency.blogspot.com/2008/07/adding-up-cost-of-ethanol.html) such as it takes 1.3 gallons of gas to make one gallon of ethanol.
However, the addition of bio diesel to the existing supply of petroleum diesel is a good thing, as its production is usually the result of waste materials.
Alternative fuels should be seen as a supplement to the existing hydrocarbon fuels, and not as a replacement. As such, the market will determine how much of the supplement it wants. If production of the supplement becomes cost neutral or less expensive than hydrocarbons, the supplement becomes the main fuel.
The same is true for alternative energy. Base loads are most efficiently generated through nuclear and coal plants. Solar, wind, etc, should be seen as supplements and priced accordingly, i.e., no subsidies.
What Verizon wants to do is share the information between Verizon Communications, Verizon Wireless, and Verizon Business. If you have Verizon Wireless, but not Fios, Verizon the mother ship wants to market you Fios.
While changes in privacy policies rightly raise red flags, in this instance, Verizon has to request customer authorization to share customer data between its corporate entities.
The popular vote does count, as spelled out by the Constitution and the Amendments.
The Congress (House and Senate) are directly elected by the people. Elections below the federal level are all direct.
The President is elected by the Electoral College to respect proportional representation, but at the same time giving weight to smaller states interests.
My concern is that we are beginning to descend into lawlessness. The first sign was the White House asking for direct control of the census. That is a constitutionally mandated process and has no business being in the hands of the President.
The Constitution is a brilliant document. Those who wish to change it can do so, but by the existing process.
Let's not forget that iron lungs and dialysis machines started this way. The liver is an amazing organ and has great regenerative properties. However, it can be easily damaged and transplants aren't very successful.
It is sad that China, known for organ harvesting, has led the research on this.
I sort of agree with your comments about the public domain, however... Battery technology is very sensitive, as the enemies of the US still use diesel-powered submarines,like Iran, China, Russia. I know that China and Russia aren't stated enemies, but have the potential to be. When submarines are on battery power, they are quieter than nuclear powered submarines.
Further, I would like to see batteries developed that make the use of home alternative energy more accessible, like wind power.
The other issue that isn't being considered is that many high tech workers are "fire fighters." They swoop in and make the big fix, often using unconventional methods. That type of behavior and thinking is anathema to unions.
Further, much of the tech work is in positions exempt from the Fair Labors Standards Act and not ripe for unionization.
Perhaps you shouldn't conclude that observation means from afar. While some managers may do that, it is ineffective, as you mention.
While you speak to specifics around projects, I was speaking more generally.
Both professional and academic experience tells me that experienced professionals require less direction and more enablement to perform at their best. To that end, a new manager shouldn't look to make changes haphazardly, rather respect the experience of the team and value their contributions. In that, we think alike.
Were I you, the first thing is to observe your team to identify their personalities, leaders, and quirks.
Secondly, clearly set out expectations and how you measure success.
Thirdly, communicate regularly. Remind them of your requirements and ask them to tell you how you are doing as manager.
Finally, don't tell them how to do their job. They are adults. Managers not only set the tone and lead, but they also support and protect their employees. Ask them where you can run interference or otherwise make doing their jobs just a little bit easier.
Honest communication and feedback makes this happen.
I agree about the buzzword merchant part, but disagree about Web 2.0 not having any substance. I think Web 2.0 is a business adaptation to how a generation is developing culturally. Specifically, if you 25 and younger, the internet has been something you have always used. You are used to the speed and volume of data. Additionally, the collaborative aspects of the internet and supporting technologies are expected.
Web 2.0, Facebook, Slashdot, and YouTube represent the attempt to monetize social expectations. Further to that point, business is mimicking this generation's requirements for community, collaboration, speed, and matrix teaming.
As other generations become more adapt at using the Web 2.0 technologies, they are adapting insight into how this new generation thinks and what their expectations are. I read an entire series on the Web 2.0 manager and found it quite interesting, found here.
Google is a private enterprise and well within their rights to run the business as they see fit, assuming there is no illegality.
However, Google decided to enter the political arena, specifically their stand on California's Proposition 8. This, and other criticisms have brought into question whether Google could be trusted with opposing view points
Were I a shareholder, I would question any political expenditure, that didn't directly relate to running the business.
While a company is free do these things and take certain positions, one has to wonder whether share holders and the Board of Directors think it is wise.
Personally, as a highly respected information broker, as well as ad machine, I think Google should stay out of politics and remain neutral.
Here Here! I live within 2 miles of Arlington, and had a tremendous acorn fall about 3 months ago. I was quite surprised to see the volume. Additionally, my squirrel population has remained relatively constant, though they are definitely taking advantage of all of the ornamental pumpkins hanging around.
Give me a break! The ACLU is only about destroying the Constitution and the US because it currently staffed by 1960s retreads (communist sympathizers, socialists, and oddly enough, Bob Barr).
Be more concerned about 0bama's "Truth Squads" in Missouri and his Civilian Corps.
Let's just remember a few points.
1. The construction of a Toyota Prius and its battery unit consumes more resources and generates more pollution than a Hummer.
2. Base load electricity is generated by coal, natural gas, and nuclear. All of which will be required as solar doesn't perform very well at night.
3. Any hybrid is subject to cost benefit analysis versus the price of gasoline.
4. Wide-scale use of batteries require a thorough and thoughtful recycling plan, including more than one plant in Italy.
If energy Independence is the goal, the US should utilize all of its resources: Wind, Solar, Coal, Natural Gas, and Nuclear.
If lower hydrocarbon use is the goal, perhaps considering hydraulic hybrids, which only use a battery to start the car is the way to go. Check out "Hybrid Hummer Hums" at http://economicefficiency.blogspot.com/2008/07/hybrid-hummer-hums.html
It is good to see that the machines will function properly at the 90 degree range, though living in the Mid-Atlantic, humidity is an issue.
We have experienced heat alarms in our labs due to failed AC units, however, the air in the labs wasn't moving.
Perhaps some system of venting and intake would help reduce the ambient temperature.
Another possibility would be to add green roofs to free standing data centers. Instead of big cubes with flat roofs sucking up the sun's rays, a green roof would cut that heat absorption by about 20% and reducing the surrounding temperature.
There was a great article titled "Data Centers Need Green Roofs" at http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/07/data-centers-need-green-roofs.html gives some great examples.
I agree, in general. However, the real value is that advanced education is now becoming freely available.
Sure, libraries have been around a long time, but to have instructor led, multi-sensory experience is a big leap forward.
I would love to see other colleges follow suit and put up courses, following this model. The expansion of knowledge is a great thing!! Harvard could put up a business class, or law class etc.
Let's see what Barclay's has to say about this.
What would be cool is if Barclay's would retrofit the data centers with green roofs.
They would save about 20% on hvac, making the buy an even better deal.
i read about this type of thing in an article called "Data Centers Need Green Roofs" found at http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/07/data-centers-need-green-roofs.html
Good luck finding good work!
However, the batteries have to be shipped, IIRC, to Italy, to be recycled. While I appreciate that each action has a cost and benefit, what are the energy costs to create and then to recycle the battery? Are those costs and pollution greater than or less than what the hybrid will reduce in consuming less fossil fuel?
As mentioned above, it still takes considerable energy to produce the hydrogen for the fuel cell.
What we aren't asking is what is the goal? Is the goal to replace petroleum as the fuel for mobility? Is it to reduce vehicle emissions?
If we ask these questions, then the proposed solutions can be evaluated on their merits and whether they meet their desired goals.
And so it goes into ad hominem attacks. It appears that I have proven my point as you can not question either my logic or my facts.
I have been accommodating and open minded and willing to read your replies. However, your most recent reply is a flight of conspiracy theory fancy.
I would also recommend that you not state as fact
"Considering how many Iraqis have been put in wood chippers, gang raped, and specially treated Saddam style by Americans, with no end in sight I don't expect many thanks from them, no matter how "used to it" they should be by now."
as that is false. Such false witness reflects badly on you, and if you are a believer/follower of the 10 Commandments, you will know its a pretty big no-no.
I wish you peace and hope you find it in your life.
And what source provided you that data? Perhaps AQI is a brand used by local thugs, but there are folks perpetrating the suicide bombings, and they are not US military personnel.
Regarding Al Quds, perhaps this link to ABC News, not known to be big Bush supporters, will convince you. http://abcnews.go.com/International/story?id=2875127 BTW, many of the suicide bombers, at least the ones last year, were Sunni, not Shi'a.
If you are Iraqi and not being put into a wood chipper, gang-raped, or any other Uday/Qusay/Saddam special treatment, thank an American!
Allow me to address your points ceriatem:
1. Yes, in the 1950s the US and Britain agitated the overthrow of Mossadegh. That was a really dumb move, but it was 60 years ago. Khomeni returned in 1979. Which is more relevant? And yes, I know its "Two to Tango," however, Iran and Iraq were fighting, not dancing, thus "tangle." Its called artistic license.
2. Shi'a is a destabilizing force in countries such as Bahrain. Students go to Qom, Iran and study there. The Iranian mullahs teach and profess theories and lessons that the students learn. Later, the students return with these lessons and act to destabilize their home countries.
3. Pakistan and India may be a concern, but were I a member of the Iranian ruling elite, I would be more concerned that Israel would respond to the Iranian nuclear threat with a first strike. That is the price for being a bully.
4. You missed the purpose of my rhetorical flourish. Iran's propaganda arm engages in the rhetoric of force, violence, and aggression. I am merely returning the favor.
5. Dig deeper into what I wrote. I create a clear distinction between the ruling elite and "the people." The ruling elite has a vested interest in the status quo, namely, wealth and power. If Iran, God willing, were able to return to democracy, the ruling elite would likely be tried and executed.
In short, freedom is the natural right of every person. The world witnesses persecution of conscience in China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and other nations. I am talking about torture, jailing, beatings, etc. As we are all creations of God, we all possess human dignity and "certain unalienable rights." Let's hope for the day when peace rules the world and justice prevails. Pax Domini sit Semper Vobiscum!
Put the blame where it belongs, Al-Qaida in Iraq, Iran's special forces, and foreigners who want to completely destabilize the region.
More Iraqis have been killed by other Iraqis than coalition forces, despite what the Lancet says.
Again, ancient history. What the US and other non-Shi'a nations, in particular Israel face is a belligerent and bellicose Iran, whose leadership is intent on funding suicide bombers, destabilizing Iraq, and being all-round jerks.
Instead of smarting about 60 year wounds, take responsibility for the here and now.
Slashdot Mirror
Perhaps the larger issue is that people are looking for alternative fuels as an all or nothing proposition. Ethanol as a substitute for gasoline is a loser for many reasons (read here: http://economicefficiency.blogspot.com/2008/07/adding-up-cost-of-ethanol.html) such as it takes 1.3 gallons of gas to make one gallon of ethanol. However, the addition of bio diesel to the existing supply of petroleum diesel is a good thing, as its production is usually the result of waste materials. Alternative fuels should be seen as a supplement to the existing hydrocarbon fuels, and not as a replacement. As such, the market will determine how much of the supplement it wants. If production of the supplement becomes cost neutral or less expensive than hydrocarbons, the supplement becomes the main fuel. The same is true for alternative energy. Base loads are most efficiently generated through nuclear and coal plants. Solar, wind, etc, should be seen as supplements and priced accordingly, i.e., no subsidies.
What Verizon wants to do is share the information between Verizon Communications, Verizon Wireless, and Verizon Business. If you have Verizon Wireless, but not Fios, Verizon the mother ship wants to market you Fios. While changes in privacy policies rightly raise red flags, in this instance, Verizon has to request customer authorization to share customer data between its corporate entities.
The popular vote does count, as spelled out by the Constitution and the Amendments. The Congress (House and Senate) are directly elected by the people. Elections below the federal level are all direct. The President is elected by the Electoral College to respect proportional representation, but at the same time giving weight to smaller states interests. My concern is that we are beginning to descend into lawlessness. The first sign was the White House asking for direct control of the census. That is a constitutionally mandated process and has no business being in the hands of the President. The Constitution is a brilliant document. Those who wish to change it can do so, but by the existing process.
Let's not forget that iron lungs and dialysis machines started this way. The liver is an amazing organ and has great regenerative properties. However, it can be easily damaged and transplants aren't very successful. It is sad that China, known for organ harvesting, has led the research on this.
I sort of agree with your comments about the public domain, however... Battery technology is very sensitive, as the enemies of the US still use diesel-powered submarines,like Iran, China, Russia. I know that China and Russia aren't stated enemies, but have the potential to be. When submarines are on battery power, they are quieter than nuclear powered submarines. Further, I would like to see batteries developed that make the use of home alternative energy more accessible, like wind power.
The other issue that isn't being considered is that many high tech workers are "fire fighters." They swoop in and make the big fix, often using unconventional methods. That type of behavior and thinking is anathema to unions. Further, much of the tech work is in positions exempt from the Fair Labors Standards Act and not ripe for unionization.
Perhaps you shouldn't conclude that observation means from afar. While some managers may do that, it is ineffective, as you mention. While you speak to specifics around projects, I was speaking more generally. Both professional and academic experience tells me that experienced professionals require less direction and more enablement to perform at their best. To that end, a new manager shouldn't look to make changes haphazardly, rather respect the experience of the team and value their contributions. In that, we think alike.
Were I you, the first thing is to observe your team to identify their personalities, leaders, and quirks. Secondly, clearly set out expectations and how you measure success. Thirdly, communicate regularly. Remind them of your requirements and ask them to tell you how you are doing as manager. Finally, don't tell them how to do their job. They are adults. Managers not only set the tone and lead, but they also support and protect their employees. Ask them where you can run interference or otherwise make doing their jobs just a little bit easier. Honest communication and feedback makes this happen.
I agree about the buzzword merchant part, but disagree about Web 2.0 not having any substance. I think Web 2.0 is a business adaptation to how a generation is developing culturally. Specifically, if you 25 and younger, the internet has been something you have always used. You are used to the speed and volume of data. Additionally, the collaborative aspects of the internet and supporting technologies are expected. Web 2.0, Facebook, Slashdot, and YouTube represent the attempt to monetize social expectations. Further to that point, business is mimicking this generation's requirements for community, collaboration, speed, and matrix teaming. As other generations become more adapt at using the Web 2.0 technologies, they are adapting insight into how this new generation thinks and what their expectations are. I read an entire series on the Web 2.0 manager and found it quite interesting, found here.
Google is a private enterprise and well within their rights to run the business as they see fit, assuming there is no illegality. However, Google decided to enter the political arena, specifically their stand on California's Proposition 8. This, and other criticisms have brought into question whether Google could be trusted with opposing view points Were I a shareholder, I would question any political expenditure, that didn't directly relate to running the business. While a company is free do these things and take certain positions, one has to wonder whether share holders and the Board of Directors think it is wise. Personally, as a highly respected information broker, as well as ad machine, I think Google should stay out of politics and remain neutral.
Here Here! I live within 2 miles of Arlington, and had a tremendous acorn fall about 3 months ago. I was quite surprised to see the volume. Additionally, my squirrel population has remained relatively constant, though they are definitely taking advantage of all of the ornamental pumpkins hanging around.
Give me a break! The ACLU is only about destroying the Constitution and the US because it currently staffed by 1960s retreads (communist sympathizers, socialists, and oddly enough, Bob Barr). Be more concerned about 0bama's "Truth Squads" in Missouri and his Civilian Corps.
Thank you for your scepticism, as it tests ideas and either validates or refutes them. Please see the following links: http://www.impactlab.com/2007/03/14/prius-outdoes-hummer-in-environmental-damage/ http://www.evworld.com/library/rmi_hummerVprius.pdf http://thesocialage.com/blog/2007/09/10/better-for-the-environment-hummer-or-prius/ and two articles that support your point of view: http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-9750840-1.html http://www.autobloggreen.com/2006/10/01/forbes-says-prius-ben-and-jerry-s-ice-cream-bad-for-the-environme/ My contention is that several factors should go into whether to buy a hybrid or not.
Let's just remember a few points. 1. The construction of a Toyota Prius and its battery unit consumes more resources and generates more pollution than a Hummer. 2. Base load electricity is generated by coal, natural gas, and nuclear. All of which will be required as solar doesn't perform very well at night. 3. Any hybrid is subject to cost benefit analysis versus the price of gasoline. 4. Wide-scale use of batteries require a thorough and thoughtful recycling plan, including more than one plant in Italy. If energy Independence is the goal, the US should utilize all of its resources: Wind, Solar, Coal, Natural Gas, and Nuclear. If lower hydrocarbon use is the goal, perhaps considering hydraulic hybrids, which only use a battery to start the car is the way to go. Check out "Hybrid Hummer Hums" at http://economicefficiency.blogspot.com/2008/07/hybrid-hummer-hums.html
It is good to see that the machines will function properly at the 90 degree range, though living in the Mid-Atlantic, humidity is an issue. We have experienced heat alarms in our labs due to failed AC units, however, the air in the labs wasn't moving. Perhaps some system of venting and intake would help reduce the ambient temperature. Another possibility would be to add green roofs to free standing data centers. Instead of big cubes with flat roofs sucking up the sun's rays, a green roof would cut that heat absorption by about 20% and reducing the surrounding temperature. There was a great article titled "Data Centers Need Green Roofs" at http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/07/data-centers-need-green-roofs.html gives some great examples.
I agree, in general. However, the real value is that advanced education is now becoming freely available. Sure, libraries have been around a long time, but to have instructor led, multi-sensory experience is a big leap forward. I would love to see other colleges follow suit and put up courses, following this model. The expansion of knowledge is a great thing!! Harvard could put up a business class, or law class etc.
Let's see what Barclay's has to say about this. What would be cool is if Barclay's would retrofit the data centers with green roofs. They would save about 20% on hvac, making the buy an even better deal. i read about this type of thing in an article called "Data Centers Need Green Roofs" found at http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/07/data-centers-need-green-roofs.html Good luck finding good work!
However, the batteries have to be shipped, IIRC, to Italy, to be recycled. While I appreciate that each action has a cost and benefit, what are the energy costs to create and then to recycle the battery? Are those costs and pollution greater than or less than what the hybrid will reduce in consuming less fossil fuel?
As mentioned above, it still takes considerable energy to produce the hydrogen for the fuel cell. What we aren't asking is what is the goal? Is the goal to replace petroleum as the fuel for mobility? Is it to reduce vehicle emissions? If we ask these questions, then the proposed solutions can be evaluated on their merits and whether they meet their desired goals.
And so it goes into ad hominem attacks. It appears that I have proven my point as you can not question either my logic or my facts. I have been accommodating and open minded and willing to read your replies. However, your most recent reply is a flight of conspiracy theory fancy. I would also recommend that you not state as fact "Considering how many Iraqis have been put in wood chippers, gang raped, and specially treated Saddam style by Americans, with no end in sight I don't expect many thanks from them, no matter how "used to it" they should be by now." as that is false. Such false witness reflects badly on you, and if you are a believer/follower of the 10 Commandments, you will know its a pretty big no-no. I wish you peace and hope you find it in your life.
And what source provided you that data? Perhaps AQI is a brand used by local thugs, but there are folks perpetrating the suicide bombings, and they are not US military personnel. Regarding Al Quds, perhaps this link to ABC News, not known to be big Bush supporters, will convince you. http://abcnews.go.com/International/story?id=2875127 BTW, many of the suicide bombers, at least the ones last year, were Sunni, not Shi'a. If you are Iraqi and not being put into a wood chipper, gang-raped, or any other Uday/Qusay/Saddam special treatment, thank an American!
Allow me to address your points ceriatem: 1. Yes, in the 1950s the US and Britain agitated the overthrow of Mossadegh. That was a really dumb move, but it was 60 years ago. Khomeni returned in 1979. Which is more relevant? And yes, I know its "Two to Tango," however, Iran and Iraq were fighting, not dancing, thus "tangle." Its called artistic license. 2. Shi'a is a destabilizing force in countries such as Bahrain. Students go to Qom, Iran and study there. The Iranian mullahs teach and profess theories and lessons that the students learn. Later, the students return with these lessons and act to destabilize their home countries. 3. Pakistan and India may be a concern, but were I a member of the Iranian ruling elite, I would be more concerned that Israel would respond to the Iranian nuclear threat with a first strike. That is the price for being a bully. 4. You missed the purpose of my rhetorical flourish. Iran's propaganda arm engages in the rhetoric of force, violence, and aggression. I am merely returning the favor. 5. Dig deeper into what I wrote. I create a clear distinction between the ruling elite and "the people." The ruling elite has a vested interest in the status quo, namely, wealth and power. If Iran, God willing, were able to return to democracy, the ruling elite would likely be tried and executed. In short, freedom is the natural right of every person. The world witnesses persecution of conscience in China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and other nations. I am talking about torture, jailing, beatings, etc. As we are all creations of God, we all possess human dignity and "certain unalienable rights." Let's hope for the day when peace rules the world and justice prevails. Pax Domini sit Semper Vobiscum!
Put the blame where it belongs, Al-Qaida in Iraq, Iran's special forces, and foreigners who want to completely destabilize the region. More Iraqis have been killed by other Iraqis than coalition forces, despite what the Lancet says.
Again, ancient history. What the US and other non-Shi'a nations, in particular Israel face is a belligerent and bellicose Iran, whose leadership is intent on funding suicide bombers, destabilizing Iraq, and being all-round jerks. Instead of smarting about 60 year wounds, take responsibility for the here and now.
That is old news, though you are correct that both the US and British were meddling where they didn't belong.