Honeywell, best known for their automatic controls and thermostats, bought the patent to the thermostat in 1916 from Albert Butz boosting the company’s sales to almost $300,000 that year (Honeywell Project 1988: 7). However, just prior to World War II, Honeywell consented to its first contract for the defense department. The United States government wanted [...]
Global warming & food choices
Are you stumped by which has a lower carbon footprint: chemically grown Washington apples or organic New Zealand Fujis? Do you wonder which is worse for the climate: processed soy or pastured beef?
The Power of the Political Button
Another Presidential election year is upon us, and I have just enough time to get ready so I can avoid the pitfalls from my 2004 experience. This is how it went down. I was standing in line at a post office in Pittsburgh in the Fall of the 2004 when I noticed a woman behind [...]
The Science of Bliss
Jill Bolte Taylor is a neurological researcher who had a stroke 12 years ago. In her new book, My Stoke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey, she describes her stroke and recovery in detail.
The Crime of Kings
Power of Truth is Final — Free Mumia!
Did the United States Go to War with Iraq for Oil?
The New York Times is reporting that the four major oil companies who were kicked out of Iraq 36 years, have all received no-bid contracts
“White Cloud’s” Racial History (Part 1 of 3)
World peace must represent universal efforts. Anti-war priorities are first. However, since oppression is similarly destructive, informed and purposeful, some of us believe oppressors must be exposed and humiliated, if not punished.
Whose Uncle is Really Crazy? By Mumia Abu Jamal
When conservative hit-shows first began raising questions about Barack Obama’s former pastor, Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright, the Democratic candidate essentially played down the relationship, suggesting that Wright was like the ‘crazy uncle’ common to many families.
Vote Obama*
I feel uncomfortable telling people to vote for Barack Obama without tacking an asterisk onto the end of my plea. I feel disingenuous assuring my friends and family that Barack Obama is different than the other candidates and that once in office
Mayor Villaraigosa, Meet Beatrix Potter
This essay was written in response to Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s plan to take control of the L.A. Unified School District away from the school board. The issue of mayoral control has since subsided in L.A., but the topic of improving our schools is perennial and often misdirected. I am new to California, but I have [...]