Fracking Debate

Make sure fracking is done right

This is the first "fracking" related article I've read that shows both sides of the issue. From what I've read, not all fracking is created equal. For instance, some companies do a much better job of reusing/recycling their waste water. Unfortunately, the industry as a whole is extremely adverse to any additional regulations, and they are in complete denial when mistakes are made. If the oil and gas industry continues to protect the bad apples, they are going to end up cutting off their nose to spite their face.

Energy Dependence Day: Chapter 4 Quote

Thankfully, none of the mutawa bothered to take her statement. For once, being a second-class citizen had its advantages. At this point, Azzah wasn't sure she could have handled it and feared she would have fainted on the spot. Still, she took some small measure of satisfaction in the fact that she'd gotten away with it. After all, it was only a kiss.

New Review of Energy Dependence Day

A new review of Energy Dependence Day has just been posted at:
Red City Review.com

Energy Dependence Day: Chapter 3 Quote

Alone in his office, Professor Ratib contemplated the days events. While he had not been able to refinance, Allah had provided him with not one, but two ways to make additional money.

Which of these blessings will I deny? Am I to choose, or should I embrace both?

Consumer Protection - Tesla & the Auto Dealerships

Tesla vs. The Car Dealerships

Tesla is far from the only automobile company to benefit from government handouts and low interest loans. The Chevy Volt qualifies for similar government incentives as the Tesla Model S. When hybrids were first introduced, there were also incentives. NADA is much more interested in maintaining the status quo than consumer protection. Given the recent billion dollar judgment against Toyota for unintended acceleration and the GM recalls, Tesla is not the company that I need protection from.

Army General Sex Assualt Case

Brigadier general accused of sex assault must pay over $20,000; no jail time

Rank evidently has it's privileges. This case reminds me of a similar incident regarding an Air Force general that I encountered during active duty. The general was screwing some Captain's wife when the Captain was deployed overseas. In my mind, it's not the adultery that's really the issue. Rather, it's the abuse of power. The notion that these "relationships" did not impact the generals' decision making and directly or indirectly put other service men and women in harms way is ridiculous. The military is supposed to be held to a higher standard not a lower one.

Energy Dependence Day: Chapter 2 Quote

“Let's get this wound bandaged,” Al-Faruq barked. The rest of the squad exchanged shocked glances, but said nothing. Grabbing the radio operator's neck, Al-Faruq checked for a pulse. There was none.

Energy Dependence Day: Chapter 1 Quote

“The Afghanistan I know is merr. We have to leave, start anew.”
“But why now? We've been through tough times before.”
“The Americans are leaving, and once they are gone, it'll be even more chaotic.”
“And will life in Peshawar be any different?”
“It can't be any worse.”