Category: Soap Box

START SOAPBOX Yes, I can’t help it. I noticed that there are now TV commercials from special interest groups that are once again trying to scare people about health care reform. President Obama is correct in saying that without real health care reform there cannot be a true economic recovery. While the car companies may…

Start Soapbox The new MLB iPhone application will now stream live game video in addition to the audio feeds. The first game to be boardcast is the Cubs versus White Sox. We are in the midst of inter-league play and once again, that unfortunate mistake that will always make the American League the junior league…

Start Soapbox The Vermont legislature is debating and is likely to pass legislation legalizing same-sex marriage. Both Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility and the Lake Champlain Chamber of Commerce have testified in support of this civil rights legislation and it enjoys wide-spread support from the business community in Vermont. Unfortunately, Governor Douglas has indicated that…

There is a lot of talking going on about reforming the way health care is delivered in this country and how solving this dilemma is an essential part of our economic recovery. Unfortunately, the one solution that will do the most to reform health care is not on the table. This is single-payer health care.…

On Thursday I participated in a press conference with Chittenden County Vermont Senator Virginia Lyons. She has introduced a bill to the Vermont legislature that would require electronics manufacturers to fund or partially fund a statewide ewaste recycling program. The bill is still “on the wall” and has not been brought before the legislature. Remarkably,…

I read with great interest about the challenge that former VP and current Apple board member Al Gore tossed out yesterday. He challenged the USA to completely shift its entire electricity production to renewable energy sources and eliminate the dependence upon oil and coal. Challenging the auto industry to have all electric cars in 10…

One of my favorite things to do while on vacation is to meet new people and discuss their feelings on important issues. I spent some time in Jamaica debating the impact of climate change with my host, Jim Boydston. He pointed out that erosion is taking its toll along the seven-mile beach. He explained that…

I am disgusted. I watched the Democratic Debate last night between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton and have nothing but respect for these two leaders for the courage to put themselves up to our scrutiny and choice for the next President of the USA. I feel totally different about Charlie Gibson and George Stephanopoulos, the…

Eliminate the Electoral College By Don, don@smalldog.com I was out to dinner last night and started talking to the waitress about politics (yes, I can’t help myself, I talk about politics in my company newsletter and to strangers, too!). She was very nice and explained that while she votes in local elections she refuses to…

Climbing out of the Money Pit By Don, don@smalldog.com The Pentagon has come to congress with yet another request for an extra $142 billion for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. It is really time to think about our priorities again. The president is vetoing legislation that would provide health care to poor children, which…