December 24, 2012

Convicted of killing his neighbor, Trevor Dooley talks of race but not remorse

http://www.tampabay.com/news/courts/criminal/convicted-of-killing-his-neighbor-trevor-dooley-talks-of-race-but-not/1262479

"In his own testimony, Dooley portrayed himself as the true victim, saying he fired only to save his life. After trial, Dooley, who is black, told reporters the whole case was racist. David James was white."

Interesting case of Stand Your Ground in Florida.

December 20, 2012

Encouragement of STEM and future jobs

My daughter is doing a video project on what should be Obama's most important action as President. My belief is that it is securing more high paying jobs for Americans. In particular my daughter is going to focus on STEM (she is already doing a series of youtube broadcasts on STEM education in our state for her Broadcast Journalism class). In particular if encouraging STEM education is actually building a bridge to nowhere (or are our politicians pulling the rug out). Item number one being the lack of resistance to stapling Green Cards to PhD and even MS graduates in STEM.

Anyone have any thoughts?

November 9, 2012

Linking wind energy with production of steel

A further 29% of steel is produced in Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF); much of the electricity used in this process is generated from coal-fired power stations.

About 150 kg of coal are required to produce 1 tonne of steel in Electric Arc Furnaces.

Does anyone know if their are any plans to open an EAF near a high wind resource area. Plenty of wind is available in the iron range of Michigan. Wind economics are difficult because of remote location to where the power will be consumed. Move the mountain to Mohammed and produce steel using wind power located near iron ranges. Dramatically reduce shipment of iron ore and coal. Avoid the burning of 150 kg of coal for every 1 tonne of steel.

November 9, 2012

2nd Administration Challenges

What do you think will be the biggest challenge that may hurt Obama's second administration.