Actually, you are on to something. The history of public transportation in Chicago is a sorry condemnation of the private industry model of providing a public utility. When the various competition transit lines made money, they wanted public rights of way. When they could not, they wanted public subsidies (or to be purchased when the concerns failed). GM worked to destroy a well-developed light rail network that served the midwest well...so that new, public transit companies would have to buy their buses and not maintain long lasting streetcars. We have be realistic about how does (and has done) what in our country in order to make real improvements.

"Shame on us. Since the oil embargo of the 70's we have known that we have NO control over imported oil ... USA is made up of millions of "ME" 's. " Good post! As it is, it's not just the politicians at fault, it's most everyone. I won't include myself and others like me who modify their vehicles for improved mileage, experiment with alternatives, who don't wait on the government or on the automakers or big business in-general, etc. At least you can see this and you speak out. Alternatives don't have to cost more or even THAT much more and as a whole they're cheaper over time.

excellent comments about the gulf spill and BP - you did a good job breaking it down and glad to see that someone isn't blaming obama for all of it. my dad used to say that
"hindsight in always a perfect 20-20", keep up the honest commentary.

Hey Rich! Liked your posts. Hope you're doing well. Anyhow, thought I'd invite you as a friend. I'm a little late getting to this, but I thought I'd include you as well: Joyeaux Noel/God Jul/Feliz Navidad/Mele Kalikimaka/Buon Natale/Mitho Makosi Kesikansi/Hyvaa Joulua/Merry Christmas to you too! I won't be on much during the next week, so Feliz Ano Nuevo/Bonne Annee/Sretna Nova Godina Happy New Year to you and your family and friends as well. I wish I could get to everyone's profile here and say it, but I can't do it being homeless as I am these days. Q'apla (Klingon)/Succes! Tai nasha no karosha (Vulcan, first language--pronounced tie nah-shah no kah-ro-shah)/Live long and prosper! Shalom (Hebrew)Peace as well as goodbye.

the oceans are rising. don't worry not a problem for you, unless you have sea level or ocean front property