21st Century Arms Race

Earlier this month, the National Bureau of Economic Research finally solidified the sentiments of many Americans when they inked the pages of history with the great recession of the 21st Century. Stemming from December 2007, the US economy has been on the declining slide. Unemployment rates have risen, spending has slowed to a quicksand crawl, and the almighty GDP has even been turning red. Even the Federal Reserve saw a 0.8% drop in household debt, the first drop for the in the history of reporting.

Yet despite the multiple variables impacting the US economy, one industry that has seemed to remain recession proof is Major League Baseball. Since most American households have thrown the emergency break into effect on spending, most teams seem to have focused on signing key off season players who will bolster both the win column and team revenues. It is true, Baseball teams generate funds. Essentially, the stadium is an ATM machine and each warm seat a deposit.

With that in mind, consider the New York Yankee’s the Major’s economic stimulus. The club continues to spend at a rate that no other franchise in sports could even muster a modest attempt to match. To look at the scenario through a different scope, consider the Yankee’s the United States of Defense spending while the closest contender is Tanzania. The Yankee’s 2008 Payroll exceed 207 million dollars; far and away the biggest in the game. And even though the Bronx have unloaded nearly $90 million in payroll moving into the 2009 season, they will surely spend a large portion of their savings.

The spending spree began last week when the pin stripes signed free agent powerhouse CC Sabathia to a 7 year-$161 million dollar deal that will become the new pinnacle on Mount Olympus for pitching power. Now in all fairness, Sabathia did perform to Zeus standards over the second half of the 2008 season with the Brewers. Over the course of 17 starts, the 6’ 7” lefty went 11-2 with 7 complete games and 3 shutouts. He fanned 128 batters in 130.7 innings while registering an ERA of 1.65. Through his efforts and pitching on short rest, he helped the Brewers slide into the playoffs for the first time in 26 years.

The signing of Sabathia is another example of Baseball teams paying escalating amount for their arms supplies. Though we have not seen a showdown in the likes of Cuban missile crisis, it is evident that a showdown is sure to ensue. Consider the fact that in the past 2 years, the 2 New York teams have paid in excess of 298 million for 13 years of pitching service. In 2007, the New York Mets paid 2-time CY Young winner Johann Santana 137.5 million for 6 years. And though statistical numbers do favor prosperous times ahead, it is also a major investment in one player who is touching the ball every 5 days.

The cost per win in a major league season has entered into the realm of disbelief. Sabathia’s contract is just another aggressive withdrawal from Hal’s trust fund. Looking at the financials, here are some interesting numbers to digest. Sabathia’s deal for $161 million over 7 years averages out to $23 million dollars a year. Take that annual salary against his career average for appearances in a season (34), and Sabathia will earn approximately $676,470 every time he takes the mound. Furthermore, take the $23 million divided by Sabathia’s average season win totals (15) and it will be found that the Yankee’s are paying $1.53 million dollars a win.

Now, admitting that this is a fantastic sum of money for the notch in the win column, Sabathia’s bank account should be contrasted against other premiere pictures over the past 10 years. For instance, Johann Santana signed a 6 yr/$137.5 million dollar deal in 2007. His performance for the first season of the contract was a 16-7 record with 206 Strikeouts in 234.4 innings pitched while maintaining a 2.53 ERA. On the heels of the Sabathia trade, the New York Mets signed free agent Francisco Rodriguez (K-rod) to a 3 year/$37 million deal to fill the injury vacuum created by Billy Wagner. Last season K-rod set a major league record with 62 saves, in addition to accumulating 77 Strikeouts in 68.3 innings. In 2006 Barry Zito was offered a 7 year contract worth $126 million. This has been one of the bigger signing disappointments in recent memory as Zito has performed to a 21-30 record in the first 2 seasons of the contract. The 21-30 record is the result of 251 Strikeouts in 376.7 innings and a 4.84 avg. ERA.

Arguably, the best pitching free agent singing in the last decade was the 1999 signing of Randy Johnson by the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Diamondback’s offer to land the Big Unit did not disappoint. In his first 4 seasons, Johnson amassed an 81-27 record. He recorded 1417 Strikeouts in 1,031.1 innings pitched with holding down a 2.48 avg. ERA. During this time span Johnson earned 4 consecutive CY Young awards and was Co-MVP of the 2001 World Series Champion Diamondbacks.

Though it is useful to see what other great free agent talent has produced in recent memory, it all comes down to any given day on the mound. Though pitching is a key post season ingredient in a World Series mix; run support, defense, and clutch hitting need to help elevate a team into a post season contender.

To offset any chance of rotation weakness, the Yankee’s also signed free agent A.J. Burnett to a 5 year, $82.5 million deal. Burnett achieved an 18-10 record with 231 Strikouts in 221.3 innings for Division Rival Toronto last season. And though these are winning caliber numbers, arm issues threatens his season longevity. However, the Yankee’s are hoping this will help improve a starting rotation consisting of Chien-Ming Wang, Joba Chamberlain, Sabathia and potentially one of the following: Andy Pettitte, Ben Sheets or Derek Lowe. Both Sheets and Lowe are available; it is just a matter of cost.

Now, is it reasonable that the Yankee’s have invested nearly a quarter of a billion dollars in 2 players? In most cases it is a resounding NO. That being said, you are talking about the Yankee’s and an 8 year drought from a championship. Since there pitching has been the Achilles heel of the team in there feeble playoff showings during the past few years, it was the dis-appearance from their 13 year post season showings that has spurred investments. On April 16, 2009 the Yankee’s will take the field in the new Yankee stadium. The new stadium, projected at $1.6 billion bill, will need a team equal in cost to help the cash happy front office to maintain debt payments by filling the seats. And though the pin stripes rarely have an issue selling out, nothing generates revenue like post season success.

So while the rest of us are fretting over holiday Christmas shopping budgets and staying on top of our bills, the Yankee’s have made this holiday season very memorable for 2 New York new comers. If one thing can be concluded from all of this, it is that even when everything else is changing, the Yankee’s spending habits have not.

Red on the Web

The 4th Quarter of the Business calendar has traditionally been the rallying time for the bottom line. From the coffee-riddled shopping day “Black Friday,” to the celebration of Kris Kringle’s one day of work a year it is one of corporate America’s favorite times of the year.

But, with the downturn of the economy; scratch that-recession; this is shaping up to not be the most wonderful time of the year. Retail industry analysts are predicting consumer spending to drop by more than $100 million dollars; estimating metro and suburbanites spending to fall to roughly $830 million, a steep fall from $930 million spent in 2007.

The decrease in spending is the economic reality that we all find ourselves in. With frequent references to the Great Depression and Bailout plans, America’s steadfast capitalist are lining up at the Capital looking for their Treasury endorsed “Advance to Go” card.

There are a lot of reports about why the economic collapse has transpired. Everything from the catastrophe of the sub-prime mortgages, stifling fuel costs, and the pinch of lending has bottlenecked cash flow. Restricted lending and rising mortgage payments has all but eliminated discretionary spending. Non-essential outlets have been reduced to laying off employees, or worse, closing their doors and watching a real estate advertisement hung in their best window space.

One repeated trend that has been reported on has been the steady decline in traffic at stores nationwide. One of the key contributors to declined isle traffic is the cost of gas. Over the course of the summer, AAA reported national average of over $4.00 a gallon. People of all ages were not inclined to cruise to the mall. Though preserving in both the fuel and wallet categories is critical to personal budget stability, it is a virus to retail livelihood.

However, when traffic numbers have been on the decline at the physical locations, potential losses have been offset by online offerings.

The online shopping experience has evolved. Though the end goal has always been the same (click here, put item A in your shopping cart, enter credit card number, and proceed to checkout- Cha-Ch’ing) the presentation has become interactive. You can pick, zoom in, tailor the apparel to match your body image, listen to a song clip, watch a 30 second preview or read an excerpt. And the best part of is that all of this can be done from anywhere; from the office cube to the living room recliner and in any state; from Red Bull energy spurts to the lingering effects of tryptophan.

But this year, even the internet is poised for a substantial drop. Though there are competing figures, the general theme is RED. Specialized industries are falling victim daily. The one-time advantages of opting for running your e-commerce were low cost domain maintenance and no location lease costs have been eliminated in the time it takes to click the mouse. Even though your competitor is thousands of miles away in actual distance a simple google search and they are off with their money and your profit.

Therefore the decline in online shopping has forced a price war that is rarely seen. Companies big and small alike have concluded that volume is better than margin and that any money is good money. There is a generalized acceptance of the vaporization of profit margins to accommodate the price conscious shopper. Click on any major retailer (Wal Mart, Target, Kmart, etc.) and just look at all the promotional efforts that state “free shipping”.

This aggressive push to provide an added value service is one of the main dishes being served this year. In fact, it is likely that this issue is going to be one of the cornerstones for capturing and retaining holiday traffic. Obviously, mass retailers are in a much better position to absorb the shipping expense. So that being said- go spend an additional $10 dollars!

Revolving banners on most e-commerce sites are in full-on promotional mode. If these efforts stay consistent, the notion of ‘free shipping’ will be another branded motto that consumers will link to the online shopping experience. And if that is the case, this trend is going to stay relevant far longer than any recessional timing. Additionally, with the low expectations for an economic rebound in 2009, consumers will likely continue to expect; better demand, free shipping options for good.

So regardless if you are a business or a consumer, it is apparent that at this point in time, every dollar counts.

Running on Empty

Back in April, I wrote about the downward spiral of the US economy. At that point, I commented on how our collective national feeling was leaning against the railing over-looking the recession valley. The course of our country over the last 6 months has been amazingly tragic. Since then, we have seen a domino effect that has not been experienced for 70 years on the descent into the red. Furthermore, we have seen the US Government become the baby-sitter to Capitalism. Never before have such efforts been made to privatize private profits while socializing their losses. And sadly, it is the bad guys in this story who are going to reap all the fruits of taxpayer charity.

This economic crisis drove one presidential candidate to suspend his campaign to return to Washington to ‘get back to work’. It created a national conversation about dollar amounts that the average American cannot even begin to comprehend. It showed that poor fiscal responsibility, multiple companies’ aggressive means to achieve profit margin goals and little to no accountability for Wall Street can even leave financial wizards in a muted state. It revealed the cause and effect disconnect on Capitol Hill between lobbying efforts/limited oversight and the ultimate impact these actions have on their constituencies’ lives. The standard capitalist defense mechanism has been to “let the markets work its way out.” But, when the market is no longer bearing down on the competitors bottom-lines, and the vicious trend is now devouring their business’s sustainability- the white flag is raised and the government is called in.

For better or worse, all of this has taken place on the watch of George W. Bush. President Bush, the Texan Governor who campaigned on the Republican virtues of fiscal responsibility and limited government, has seemingly strayed quite far from the Elephant ranch. My intention is not to simply conclude that the financial monsoon that we are now in is the direct result of one man’s actions. However, it is under Bush 43 and a Republican party that has enjoyed the power seat for 6 of the last 8 years that have had the best seat for viewing the Bankruptcy of our nation. Through launching multiple wars, easing tax obligations of the richest 1 percent, and trying to privatize the sacred institution of Social Security, they have been grossly negligent in their respective roles as representatives. Shame on them.

And now, in the wave of bailout support to our major banking systems, another industry is screaming for their share of the Treasury piggy bank.

For years, the Auto Industry was a major player in growing the US economy. From the days of the Model T through the latest offering from Chevrolet, people have shown consistent infatuation for their vehicles. There was the deep seated pride in “Made in America,” and Michigan grew up around the manufacturing plants and assembly lines. But, over the past few years, as the credit crunch has set in, consumer confidence tumbling, and lending reserved for those with nose-bleed credit ratings, the Big 3 automakers in the US have seen record drops in their balance sheets.

What can these massive losses be attributed to? Surely there is an array of explanations that would satisfy some while igniting indignation in others. However, some novice observations can point to 3 key contributors. The first is the easiest: INDUSTRY GREED.

For years, the auto industry reaped the profit margins gained through the sale of SUV’s. These suburban cruisers not only clogged roads across America, they also provided amazing profitability margins for manufactures. Industry leaders perfected the building and selling of these gas guzzlers to the tune of $10-$15 thousand per assembly line roll off. So, the executives that were high fiving over 5 digit bonuses have now turned their palms over into the form of a donation cup.

A second contributor to industry woes is OPTIONS.

Manufactures lost their collective focus on making sensible options on vehicles. The new millennium has seen the number of options per model go from 2-3 upwards of 7 or 8. It seems that market research and sensibility was abandoned on the hope that “if we build it, they will buy it.” For example, the 2009 GM Sierra 1500 series has 6 different options alone. If the focus could return to limiting options, research and development funding, additional manufacturing costs, and time to market could all help the bottom line. I am not recommending returning the Henry Ford philosophy of “you can have any color…as long as it’s black,” however; dropping options by 50% could have a significant impact to company financials.

The last observation that is contributing to poor financials is TECHNOLOGY.

This is the scapegoat for a lot of the industry’s wounds as of late. With the historic rise in oil prices and the cost of a gallon of gas rising at an alarming rate until recently, people have been hesitant if not resistant to driving their fuel inefficient vehicles. As was mentioned a moment ago, industry greed saw the explosion of SUV’s on the American Market. Though these beasts of the road provide all the off-roading capabilities that the Suburbs demand, the 9 mile/gallon is grossly inadequate for the family budget. Consumers now want fuel efficiency, they want a car that emits less harmful toxins into the air, and they want dependability. Prior to 2000, the concept of hybrids vehicles came with the “future” label. Auto makers were hesitant to invest in the technology because the profit margins were low.

However, the demand and the technology have spiked tremendously over the past 5 years. Expectations have changed. People are viewing hybrid options less through the eyes of an expense, but rather an investment. But, with the repeated quarterly losses posted, American manufactures have lost the necessary capital to invest in technology. Therefore, if any bailout resources are allocated, I believe that the bailout benchmarks need to be outlined in the contractual obligations to invest, develop, and manufacture efficiency. No more excuses.

Even if the 3 contributors above are addressed tomorrow, the situation would still be in dire straits. This past Friday GM announced that it might not have enough cash to make it to the New Year. Losses that preformed worse to industry analyst expectations in addition to the hemorrhaging of cash have created a slippery slope for GM towards the Bankruptcy fall. The losses amount to a reported $4.2 billion (equivalent to $7.35/share) drop in sales along with cash expenditures of 6.9 billion. The announcement of 3rd Quarter performance saw GM shares drop to a 60 year low.

GM's principal rival Ford also performed below Q3 projections. Though Ford’s losses were not as devastating as GM’s the industry pillar said that current liquidity is safe until 2010. But, if operating costs continue to chip away at the reserves, Ford’s predicament could rival that of GM. To stem the tide of debilitating losses Ford announced that it would cut an additional 10 percent from salaried employment, eliminating bonuses, amongst other efforts. Plans are also in the works to offer an additional 2,600 buyout packages to its union workers.

Though the chief officers at GM and Ford have scuttled the ‘B’ talks thus far, many observers to feel that the auto industry cannot sustain itself back into stable performance without government intervention. If the industry watches the key companies fall into the void and cease all operations, as many as 3 million jobs will be lost in the first year alone. Another key category to focus on is the drop in personal income. An estimated 275.7 billion could be lost due to employment loss related to the industry. Michigan, a state already decimated by the dismal economy and massive job loss in the car sector would slip further away from the path. In 2008 alone, over 110,000 jobs have been lost, 15,000 alone in the month of October. Unfortunately, it will not be a merry Christmas for many families whose livelihoods have been crushed by layoffs.

Therefore, what is the next step? Where does the market go from here? What is needed to stop the bleeding? What is needed to restore confidence? Hopefully you didn’t come to this article for those answers. These are the challenges of the industry and the federal government who are currently working on securing an exit strategy. Let it be noted that if the American taxpayer has to provide any amount of donations to the industry that the government needs to reciprocate some of that generosity back the masses. Possible Government action to help the average American would be to slow down home foreclosures, bankruptcy claims, lower credit card interest payments, suspend student loan payments and the like.

During the long course of the political campaign season, politicians on all sides of the spectrum spoke to the character of the American people. That regardless of our differences, our collective will power will see us through any challenge presented. That being the said, the government should help out the American people and not just big industry. While Wall Street leaders wait in line for their taxpayer donations, countless people see their houses taken away, their small businesses close their doors and their savings depleted. So, at the end of the day, make sure that the ‘little guy’ gets his ticket to the bailout tent event. For if this bailout only address businesses needs and not the people, then the Preamble of the Declaration of Independence needs to be amended to read:

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all big businesses are created equal, that they are endowed by the Government with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Profit, Privatization, and the pursuit of bailout resources when needed…”

The Curse of the Babe

Throughout the past 85 years this phrase has reverberated across the lips of baseball fans. More specifically, the phrase has served as the theoretical basis for the Boston Red Sox continued struggle to gain exclusive access back to baseball immortality. It was incorporated into the nighttime prayers of young Yankee fans. It whispers through the squeaks of the B and D trains. And it provides the twinkle in the eye of all the Yankee greats watching from Monument Park.

But, the phrase carries a lot more metaphorical weight. Take the focus off of the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox and view this statement in terms of US economic and political health. For the past 85 years the US has evolved from a supplemental power on the other side of the Atlantic to a global force that has been able to tap every international resource and export American culture for an unbelievable return.

Over the last century New York has arguably been the Economic Capital of the world. It is the home of Wall Street, Time Square, and the Yankee’s. Though it was the natural capital of the young nation following the revolutionary war, a Dinner party deal between the financial genius Hamilton and the articulated pen Jefferson allowed the move to the swamp land on the Potomac. This moved political undertones to the south and opened New York to the benefits of capitalism. With the boom of capitalism, the expectations and wealth have transferred from the towers of Wall Street to the grounds of Yankee Stadium. Therefore, when the Yankees are winning, the US is winning.

So to get back on the economic tracks, the US needs to re-embrace the Yankees. We need to reacquaint ourselves with our past momentum and realize that the Yankees were right there with the upward trends. The Yankee’s have hoarded 26 World Series Trophies to their display case. Take note of the following years that the Yankee’s finished on top: 1923, 1927-1928, 1932, 1936-1939, 1941, 1943, 1947, 1949, 1950-1953, 1956, 1958, 1961-1962, 1977-1978, 1996, 1998-2000.

The 1920’s was a credit explosion. The flapper nation was thoroughly eating up the financial freedom that lending and credit provided. The art of commodities were introduced. US citizens went from the necessity driven individuals to a company’s target market. With the credit explosion and the lending power of American’s, the owners of the Yankee’s made one of the best investments in New York history, Babe Ruth. The babe was the 1920’s version of an economic stimulus. The swing of his bat and the long ball buzz that he created is why Yankee Stadium is coined “the House that Ruth Built”. 1923 saw the Yankee’s relocate into the newly built Stadium, an edifice that gave New Yorkers the emotional equivalent of what yesterdays Romans felt when they came upon the Coliseum.

In the same year, the Yankee’s took their first championship. Later in the decade as the wealth of the growing nation continued to balloon, the “murder’s row” Yankee’s enjoyed the 1927 World Series. 1928 was also a banner year due to the sustained strength that saw the pin stripes repeat. 1929 was a down year not only for the Yankees; Black Tuesday is a benchmark day in American History. It was the end point of Stock Market Success in the 1920’s as on Black Tuesday the market was deflated at an unprecedented rate that carried on for over a month. With this bottoming out, the Bronx also saw a decline in post season success.

With a tumultuous economic situation, countless individuals looking to the government for answers and assistance, FDR was elected to the chief seat. A native New Yorker, the situation was a welcomed relief. With the newly elected President in place, a renewed sense of confidence in the US economy, an eager Yankee club appropriately welcomed the World Series Trophy in 1932. While the US continued to rebound, seeing employment rates climb out of the basement, and the alphabet soup initiatives impacting multiple communities, the Yankees enjoyed the return to stability and success by taking 4 championships in the second half of the 1930’s. With Europe erupting into World War II, the US enjoyed a public appearance isolationist. But, in 1941 just a couple months removed from the Yankee’s 10th Championship, Japan gave the US naval force based in Hawaii a horrific wake up alarm on December 7, 1941.

From December 1941 through May 1945 the US would work with European allies to defeat the axis of evil. With the worlds focus on the events of Western Europe and the Pacific campaign the Yankees took one more championship in 1943. It was during the War that a lot of talent from the baseball diamond transferred to the various branches of the US forces. Joltin’ Joe, Teddy Williams, and the like joined the rest of the American all stars in the fight.

Let it be noted that never again since World War II has such an unprecedented rally or participation taken place. It is hard to imagine the sport starts of today returning home from Iraq; this isn’t a direct shot at current athletes not is a cheap jab at the war efforts. But, I am sure that leaving for war, or stepping away from contractual obligation to Team A and putting your marketing efforts on hold for Company B isn’t at the top of a modern athletes priority list.

With bits of confetti still decaying on the curbs around Manhattan the Yankees enjoyed another Championship in 1947. They would add one more to the display case before the decade was over. While the newly formed United Nations was trying to assess aid needs to war torn Europe in the early 1950’s; in the Bronx it was business as usual. The Yankee’s enjoyed a 4 year run atop the baseball’s summit. The rest of the Decade was full of “Ike,” the Korean War, I love Lucy, and 2 more world championships for the Yankees. Though much of what took place during the ‘forgotten’ war has never been promoted in our textbooks, the world has a lot more to it than the Yankees and the commercial age of the 1950’s.

The 1960’s had a palpable tone of change in the air. With John F. Kennedy narrowly beating Richard Nixon, the youth of America felt like their President had ascended to the White House. While Kennedy was asking “Ask not what your country can do for you, but ask what you can do for your country…” the Yanks were entering Training Camp with the 1960 AL MVP Roger Maris. 1961 would prove to be a record year for the Yankees. Not only did the M and M boys (Mantle and Maris) chase the Babe, the historic season saw the homerun record leave Ruth’s resume for Maris’s, and yet another trophy for the Yankee front office. The Bronx Bombers would also be successful in their defending title role in the 1962 season. This would be the last Championship for New York for the next 15 seasons.

The 1960’s was an intense era in the US. On the political side, the assassination of JFK, Bobby Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X spoke to the undertones of destructive energies. The sense of hope and the belief in progress was all but eliminated. Though the Civil Rights movement did take steps forward, had the individuals listed above lived, the world we know today could be radically different. On the culture side, America welcomed the Beatles, Height Ashbury, and Woodstock.

The counterculture revolution saw experimentation, peace, and protest take progressive strides to make their presence known. Never before, nor since, has a movement of mass participation taken place. And throughout, a stunning soundtrack was solidified by The Grateful Dead, The Doors, Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan; voices of an era that still find a home on iPod playlists nationwide. The 1960’s also saw the US take on the French effort in East Asia; Vietnam. This is a topic much bigger than this piece however it should be noted that the Yankees did not obtain October gold throughout the ‘Police’ conflict.

It wasn’t until 1977 that the Yankee’s hoisted the championship trophy. This was the first taste of baseball glory for the new owner George Steinbrenner who led the charge to purchase the team from CBS in 1973 for a mere $10 million dollars. Steinbrenner or “the Boss” has been one of the most vocal and outspoken owners in Major League History. Through confrontations with managers and players alike, championships, and media controversies, The Boss has elevated the Yankees to one of the richest franchises in American sports history.

Under his stewardship, the Yankee’s have won 6 championships including a run in the late 1990’s that saw the pin stripes collect 4 rings in 5 years. And though he has, for the most part, removed himself from the day-to-day operations, he is still the Boss. During the championship runs of the 90’s, the US went from budget deficits to surpluses, job unemployment rates declined annually, and America knew little of international conflict.

I understand that times change, certain actions need to be taken. But, in the absence of Yankee success, America is suffering as well. Since the Yankee’s last championship in 2000 we saw a scandalous Presidential race conclusion, the experience on September 11th, 2 simultaneous wars, and an economic crisis that borders on the conditions of the Great Depression.

I am not a Yankee fan. In fact I actually have enjoyed their absence from the Fall Classic. Additionally, I am by no means under the assumption that should the Yankee’s start winning again, that somehow our country will start turning around. But, as history has demonstrated, the country has enjoyed certain successes while the Bronx was collecting trophies. On the eve of a critical election, and with the Yankee’s moving into their new stadium, let us all hope that through one means or another, some good is in store for all of us in 2009.

The Minnesota Family Reunion

For Minnesotans everywhere, whether you are purebred or a transplant, it is once again State Fair Time. Knowing that no additional information than that statement is needed for the locals, I feel that it is important for non-Minnie’s to fully grasp the concept of our State Fair.

With the Trailer rally on Snelling Blvd. in full swing, representing the NASCAR event that the State Fair is; the gates are now officially OPEN. Where being 10-years behind in wardrobe and music taste is ideal; it is the perfect cross road between who Minnesotans believe they are, and what they actually are. Where mullets and fanny-packs are proudly displayed, any food choice comes on a stick, and Scandinavian tans (sunburns) are born. It is Minnesota’s annual dosage of soma.

Every year, more than 1.5 million folks pound the pavement at the State Fair. It is a 12 day binge on a food assortment hardly rivaled anywhere in the Midwest. If one so chooses, anything from Pig lickers (chocolate covered bacon) to pails over-flowing with Sweet Martha’s cookies can wet the taste palette. It is a weight gaining event that makes any dieter cringe. But, then again who goes to the Fair to count calories? Deep fried anything’s (DFA’s) and food on a stick is the base of the state fair food pyramid. Fat and sugars are the necessary stimulants to keep ones intensity as you weed through the Midway and the animal stables. It keeps your energy up to run through the haunted house and gives enough muscle jolt to keep your hands held high when rolling down the infamous State Fair Slide on a potato sack.

While you continuously digest a potluck of food, you will find yourself getting tired, sleepy, and having difficulties walking. But, to circumvent the sluggishness that might creep up on fair goers, the saving grace is the Yard stick. An ingenious adaptation or replacement of the cane that allows our glut-toned up bodies to continue to move forward long-after we loose our ability to walk. Have no worry folks, you will arrive at your next eatery shortly…I think that Governor Pawlenty is currently working on a new law that would effectively ban any surgeon in MN from performing gastric bypass surgeries during Fair time. Rest assurred, no one will be left out.

If you are a fan of free, the fair is also your prized location of the summer. With every outfit promoting some service or product, rest assured that you will at least travel home with a new pen. From free water (thanks Culligan) to free bags (name a college-get a bag) you will not have to pay for all the fun at the fair. In fact, the popularity of the University of St. Thomas purple bags is so enormous that it has been rumored that people from Wayzata will wait in line to get one. Additionally, another free component of the fair is the mental pedometer that we all obtain during Fair time. To get from point A to point B, look no further than the soles of you shoes, sandal’s, or crocks. The foot race to the food stands is our justification for our consumption addiction. We mentally assure ourselves that we had to have walked over 5 miles therefore taking in 9,000 calories is justified.

There are also cliques at the fair; certain areas that generate and magnetize corners of the fair population. While Judson Ave. and Underwood St. bring out the best in us, the Midway digresses us back to our youthful indiscretions. The Midway is where camaraderie goes to wither away, and different cultural backgrounds compete for an oversized anything that they are forced to piggy-back through the rest of the fair. The midway is the equivalent of a town’s (insert your’s here) or at best county fair on steroids. The rides are bigger and squeakier, the attendants are missing that many more teeth, and the tickets are that much more expensive. From an eardrum perspective, it is a continuous scream; of either pure joy or fear from the realization that the ride isn’t suppose to make that sound.

For those that are clever enough to stay clear of the midway can escape to a variety of entertainment options. Anything from watching your local news team in action to live animal births is available; it is just dependant on the individual’s definition of fun. The Grandstand provides the stage for a multitude of music options and parades will satisfy the kiddies and the AARP card carrying folks. When the political calendar coincides with the Fair be on the look out for stump speeches at their finest. From the Senate-contenders to your local commissioner seats, everyone is playing the ‘I’m just an average’ Minnesotan card. But, it does provide a unique opportunity to shake a hand, take a picture, and immediately post it to Facebook.

Overall, the fair does a tremendous job with accommodating every taste bud. After all, stimulation is the key. Therefore, in closing I would like to offer up a couple of recommendations to the Fair organizers to consider for 2009 and beyond.

1. Provide all fair goers with some type of elastic waist band (either in a pants, shorts, skirts, etc.) This will allow for maximum eating potential. This will effectively eliminate the self therapeutic “belt-notch” check.

2. Provide a “Golf Cart Express”. When our feet hurt, our yard sticks have snapped like twigs, and our momentum is slowing, having access to an inexpensive ride might be ideal. Though this would only create more street congestion, it would be another revenue stream for the Fair.

3. Finally, make a new State Tax Deduction for “fair contribution”. This could be an after-tax deduction from all participating MN residents to get their Fair expenses accounted for. It could be any where from $0.42 a check ($0.42 x 26 pay checks/yr = $11.00 admission fee) to whole dollar amounts that will equate to food credits at the Fair.

That is all for now. After all, going to the Fair is the only way to truly experience it.

So long and farewell...I have a Scandinavian tan to go work on.

Youthanizing the Election Process

With the political season gearing up for the final months of the 2008 presidential campaign, Barack Obama continues to demonstrate his youthful intuition. Boasting a tremendous internet following; including 1.3 million fans via the social networking site Facebook, receiving millions of single campaign contributions, and running Ethernet cables dry across college campuses; Obama is captivating and energizing the ever elusive 18-25 demographic.

Therefore, continuing to capitalize on the 2 main communications tools of young potential voters, Obama’s campaign announced that when a Vice Presidential candidate is chosen, the first to know will be alerted via email and text messages. More often than not, this move has come under criticism from the mainstream media. But, then again, why wouldn’t it?

Mass media outlets are desperate for information. Furthermore, they will go to amazing lengths to have first access, exclusive rights, allowing them to ultimately present the story as they see fit. But, when a high profile, headline grabbing individual takes this power from them, criticism is sure to ensue. The main argument and mass conclusion casts this move as another scheme to acquire countless email addresses and cell phone numbers. Reporters who have taken the opportunity to sign up for the “First to Know” campaign speak to the daily onslaught of email messages from the campaign; including highlights from campaign stump speeches to Obama’s next appearance on the Daily Show.

If Obama’s campaign is trying gain a countless amount of information, then so be it. His seeming opponent in the November election has already taken amazing strides to solidify a never ending information pipeline. With Senator McCain’s continued support of the Patriot Act he allows the government to funnel an abundant amount of our email address, correspondences, and phone conversations to the biggest database known...the federal governments. So even though Obama may gain some valuable information for potential use in driving his campaign to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, at least he is asking us for it.

But, how are Obama’s efforts of communicating his strategy or campaign news any different from mass media and their news updates? Networks from CNN to ESPN pride themselves on keeping you ‘connected’. From CNN’s podcasts for commute time enjoyment to ESPN’s MVP cell phone service through Verizon Wireless, everyone is competing for our individual attention spans. Most major outlets have the easy link to make their respective webpage your homepage, while at the same time, making every effort to market their coffee cups effectively for office product placement. If the attention of information sharing is to make it easy, then the Obama campaign is simply following established precedent.

So, with momentum and mass information evolving Obamania to internet banners daily, he is one step closer to showing the world how important believing is. By embracing the outlets that fit today’s needs, by communicating to the coveted age group of 18-25 via email and text messaging, he is demonstrating that communication can take place, person to person. It is that personal connection that is the equivalent to political gold. He continues to string together a unified vision of what is and could be; a fearful concept to the old school thought. But, at the end of the Presidential run, there is only one, untouchable process that Obama will not be able to utilize…voting via the internet. The Obama campaign has driven countless individuals to his website for a multitude of reasons. The only thing that people won't be able to do once they get there is vote. If November 4th see’s the vision of Obamania realized, the youthanization movement was the winning strategy. If Obama is not successful, than it is the Old School euthanization of the youth involvement in the election process.

City of Lights

In the song LA Woman, Jim Morrison howls the question “are you a lucky little lady in the city of lights?” Well, a plane ride later, and a lyrical revision on the way and one can easily come up with “you are a lucky veteran now playing in the city of lights”. In a late night transaction that saw Favre’s career officially come to a conclusion in Green Bay, The New York Jets salvaged the veteran from the retirement yard by offering up a 4th round draft pick which is the school yard equivalent of a pudding snack for an apple.

So, for the first time in months or basically since Favre announced his retirement, the focus will move from a small mid-western town to the capital of the world. New York is probably one of the last huge media magnets that will not tire of this melodrama. In a city that publicly embraces all the nuances and idiosyncrasies of their sport stars, the straight shootin’, Mississippi slangin’ Favre will find himself with the most intense vocal workout of his career. Furthermore, with ESPN headquarters located in Bristol, CT, I am certain that the “Sunday Night Conversation” segment will be overhauled to accommodate Favre-mania that is sure to follow. Instead of watching Ed Sullivan and the Beatles, it will be Boomer and Tom Jackson with Favre on NFL Countdown.

But, the trade causes my football conscious to be disturbed. After all, wasn’t the rumoring to be surrounding 2 teams? What happen to the Buc’s in the trade equation? Did 5th Avenue flex its strength? Since this was a deal of discard and move on, I believe that the 4th Round Draft Pick given to the Packers for Favre is a steal. Therefore, a competitive compensation package that enticed the Packers Organization from the Jets is highly unlikely. I believe that the Jet’s were the first to act. Recognizing the uncomfortable shifts in Coach McCarthy’s bear sized frame when having to speak to this issue daily, the Jets capitalized on a mentally fatigued organization, and provided the Packer front office with an exit strategy that would accommodate the timeliness that was needed for closure. Now, the only way that the deal will turn sour in Packerland is if the Jets do start Favre, and the Jet’s records bests the Packers.

Sadly, I was pulling for Favre to end up with the Buccaneers. This would have kept him in the same conference, in a similar system, and best of all he would have followed a lot of other American’s retirement plans by migrating to Florida. After all, since the Buccaneer facility has been coined “One Buccaneer Palace” what better of a retirement home can you conjure up than that. Additionally, had Favre joined the Buc’s roster, we would have been competing against a guy who is nearly his own age. The current starter of the Buc’s is Jeff Garcia, a nomadic veteran of 38 who always plays just well enough to keep desperate teams interested. I don’t question his talent or passion, but he is in an elite group of 2 of quarterbacks pass the age of 37 who still feel like they can start (the other QB just signed with the Jets).

Therefore, had quarterback happy coach Gruden dealt a hand to land Favre, it would have been a like winning the bingo tournament every night at One Buccaneer Retirement Center. In fact, the only championship in Buccaneer history was done with a veteran QB under center in Brad Johnson in 2003. Finally, had Gruden been able to land Favre and convince Jake Plummer to lace up the spikes, he would have been the first coach in NFL history to beckon 2 players from the throws of AARP and Social Security benefits.

Regardless, Favre is now a Jet. And for those who remember Namath running off the field in Super Bowl 3 are just young enough to be able to understand the caliber of talent that has landed. Though it is not probable that Favre will be jogging off the Super Bowl field any time soon, at least the Jet fan base has a good month of day dreaming until reality sets in. New Yorkers can also take solace in the notion that another hall of famer is going to spend some time in their backyard before the sun goes down. In recent memory, players like Wayne Gretzky, Roger Clemen’s (his finale), and Pedro Martinez have filled the void of an established star that wasn’t raised in one of the boroughs. And though the Favre packaging is stamped “Made in Wisconsin,” it is safe to bet you won’t experience a recall on the product. If I remember correctly, the Number 4 Packer edition had a pretty high Consumer Report Rating.

Now sit back and relax. Favre just got into town about an hour ago. It’s time for him to take a look around and see which way the wind blows….

Ticket to Ride

Packer nation- Do not fear a reduction in the loss column or an increase in turnover ratio, fear your quarterback contingency plan after Favre retires…again.

With the popularity of the NFL starting to grind up any other sport story that nears its market share path, the focus has only intensified on Monday August 4 as Number 4 returns to Green Bay. The visit is not to execute a community volunteer event, nor is it to come and talk through his number retirement ceremony slotted for the first week of the NFL regular season. Instead, Brett flew up on a private jet to move Aaron Rodger’s locker accommodations over one spot to reclaim the locker address he has lived at for the past 17 years.

The past 2 months have been a dismal representation of what competition breeds in our sports heroes. Their mind set is unflinching, the focus is intensified, and the determination will leave in its wake a more suppressing sight than a F5 Tornado road through your local town. For anyone who knows what the call letters E-S-P-N stand for, than you are more then aware of the quarterback situation in Packer-nation. Since declaring his retirement, with heartfelt emotion and sincere tears, Brett has yet to exit stage left.

Bowing out, after what can arguably and statistically be his best season since the late 1990’s, Favre had the packers sitting on a 13-3 record and a birth in the NFC Championship game. The accomplishment was largely done on the back of the aging veteran, who’s flare for improvisation and ability to remain tone deaf to critics helped mature a very young team to Superbowl caliber readiness in a season. All the credit should be given to Favre. It was a great transformation to watch after the Pack struggled to 8-8 record in 2006. Going into the 2007 season, the Packers were admittedly focused on the ‘re-build’ year. The fruits of which, Packer coaches and management hoped, would return the franchise to annual playoff glory. But, since Favre announced retirement, it has seemed that his aches have subsided and his mental state has drifted back to Sunday Afternoons.

Back to the present moment, Favre is back in Green Bay after having Commissioner Goddell reinstate him. Mike McCarthy spends 90 percent of his day focused on a position that he thought was resolved while attempting to stay poker faced when talking about the intentions of the organization. This is not an easy place to be in. Public Opinion is a dangerous thing, especially when a town of 100,000 echoes the same sentiment. McCarthy has taken a page from the White House PR room and stuck to the same statement, “Aaron Rodgers is our starting quarterback.” This has been consistent throughout the daytime cheese-opera that is Packer Training Camp.

Now, faced with the reinstatement, it is likely that a showdown of sorts will be held in an open try out between Favre and Rodgers. I don’t think that this is fair to either individual. Obviously, Favre has earned the right to start. Being the iron man of the NFL, Favre has brought the best winning percentage, a Championship, 3 MVP’s and a scroll’s worth of NFL Records to the Packer faithful since his arrival in 1992. His career is the platform that this quarterback debate is being hosted. There is no way to compare Favre and Rogers. But, it was never the intended point to do so. Rodgers is Favre of 1992; unproven, no fan following, and looking for his first opportunity. He was drafted in 2005 to give the Packers a contingency plan to have in place when number 4 walked away. But, with the looming reality that Favre, and quite possibly the Packers, is not ready to pass the torch, maybe Rodgers should be the one asking for his outright release. This would allow the Packers to welcome Brett back as the Savior he is hoping to be, while giving Rodgers the opportunity to test his skills in another city.

It is never easy to watch your hero walk away. From Montana to Young, to Elway to Griese, other great NFL franchises have had to say goodbye. If Brett is still eager to play, there is only one home for him. Watching number 4 play in purple or rallying chicagonites isn’t ideal in any sense. Therefore, commit to one. Don’t promise Rodgers the chance to lead the team only to take him out from center and replace the pigskin with the clipboard.

This is my official declaration/petition to the Green Bay Packers to RELEASE AARON RODGERS.

The odds are heavily against Rodgers having a career that even remotely mirrors that of Favre. So, with that in mind, give Aaron the chance to make his own ‘Packer’ career instead of sitting on the Falcons sidelines in perpetuity.

City of Un-Brotherly Love

In a month that has put the negative public scope on our nation’s police force with the acquittal of the officers responsible for the death of Sean Bell, officers in Philadelphia did not contribute to the already growing discontent between the masses and the individuals chosen to protect them.

In actions that we captured on video Monday May 5, three men that were allegedly fleeing the scene of shooting were introduced to ‘reasonable’ force by Philadelphia police officers. The three men were seen being punched, kicked, and stuck by an estimated 8 officers. From the footage it appears that all police protocol was dismissed as the suspects were dragged from the car before any instructions were given. Miranda rights and hand cuffs are notably absent on the arrest stage, instead the 3 grown men are seen assuming the fetal position and covering their heads in the seemingly only human response to buffer their bodies from the impeding blows. 2 of the 3 men were struck in excess of 20 times each. The irony of the situation is that it was the suspects displaying the only human element to the chaotic scene. It was officers demonstrating a hostility that should be reserved for self defense not criminal apprehension.

What fuels an officer’s aggression, or in this case, a group of officers, to abandon their ‘protect and serve’ civic duty? One part of American society would conclude that it is racially motivated since a majority of the officers where white and the suspects were black. Another part would point to the recent death of police Sgt. Stephen Liczbinski who was shot and killed while attempting to apprehend bank robbery suspects just 2 days prior to this situation. Though both of these reasons could be successfully argued, I want to focus on the officers’ inabilities to control their aggression and their seemingly no concern for the punishment that might be result of such negligent use of police force.

Police Commissioner Ramsey reiterated to reporters on the day after the public octagon that “emotions are running very high in the department right now because we just had our third officer killed in the last 2 years…obviously that puts a lot of stress and pressure on the officers. But, having said that, we do expect them to maintain a standard of conduct on the street that is above reproach.” I can’t imagine that it is easy to be a police officer. Pay is not competitive, hours are long and demanding, and you are held to a higher standard because of the responsibility that comes with the job. But, it is a conscious choice to enter the force. By the time of graduation, one should be very aware of the expectations and duty that is forever tied to that career choice. In most cases, you are not going to be able release your anger or frustration because that is not your job. Your job is to focus on protecting the public and enforcing the law. But, when an officer is guilty of stepping out of that which they are charged with protecting than the law needs to protect the public just as well.

In an effort to save political capital and head off social unease Mayor Nutter said “It is not acceptable…to do anything less than the professional standards we expect from our police officers. The behavior that was at least exhibited on the tape is unacceptable.” Fortunately, we have the tape. As one of the attorney’s of one of the suspect’s states, "We don't take into consideration the emotions of police officers when it comes to the discharge of their duties. ... Your emotional state, being tired, doesn't justify what's on that video.” This is superb rationale. The law is supposed to be free of emotion; it is supposed to provide justice. Despite the tragic death of a colleague only days before, the emotional burnout still lingering in the department cannot provide a blanket of coverage that safeguards the officers from their actions.

Charges have yet to be filed against the officers involved in incident. But, early this week 4 of the officers involved were dismissed from their positions. Though this is a good start, it is not a guarantee that justice will be achieved. If the justice system wants to toe the racial divide, then it will not administer a strong ruling in the case that has yet to take place. City officials have proactively came out and stated that “The videotaped beatings of three restrained men by several members of the Philadelphia police force were inexcusable but had nothing to do with race.” But, I find this hard to believe. There are few things that create more fear in our government than the idea that race is the cause for social unrest. In fact, almost any means to avoid the possible fallout are taken to ensure that our social ‘norms’ are kept intact. It might be too early to see what the black communities reaction will be to this incident, but I am guessing that if any civil disobedience does take place, that it will peaceful in nature.

The gross mishandling of the Sean Bell case in New York didn’t lead to an all out assault on the officers responsible for the wrongful death on an innocent man. The response was protest. Standing alongside one another in peaceful protests was the civilian reaction to the tragedy; where the government’s response was to maliciously attack three men. What if we lived in a society where the opposite was reality? What if civilians took to the streets and sought physical retribution for wrongs to them. How fast would the court system prosecute? If those who are charged with the responsibility to protect and serve fail in all regards to do their civic duty, then there is no accountability. Philadelphia’s rich history is represented by the Liberty Bell. The revolutionary era crack is rumored to be an inescapable symbol of liberty and justice for all. If there is any pride left in the idealism of liberty, then justice needs to be delivered on behalf of those wronged, regardless of race or class.

Law and DIS-order

Three New York Detectives who were charged with manslaughter, assault and reckless endangerment were cleared on all charges stemming from the November 2006 shooting of Sean Bell. The verdict was handed down by State Supreme Court Judge Arthur Cooperman today in what has since become the perfect bull’s-eye for civil, racial, and religious organizations. But, I feel that these groups are missing the point of this tragedy. This case should not be made into another useful piece to hold up a racial or civil platform. Instead, it should be the measuring bar for future police cases to determine if reasonable force was used to resolve a given situation.

A brief case summary states that on the night of November 25, 2006 Sean Bell and 2 friends were on the final stretch of Mr. Bell’s Bachelor party. Around 4 AM a skirmish took place outside the Club Kalua between the victim and another party. Following this incident, Bell and his friends went to their car. What the undercover officers at the club assumed was that these individuals were going to the vehicle to get a firearm. Reacting to this assumption the officers followed the group back to the car.

Undercover officers had been staking out these types of locations “because establishments known as "strip clubs" often generate criminal activity including prostitution and narcotics, the Police Department club enforcement unit was given the task of infiltrating such places and pursuing violations of law that would lead toward shutting them down.” It was because officers had been working this angle to take down these criminal rings that officers were monitoring the altercation closely.

When the officers arrived at the car they drew their weapons on the individuals. Remember, the officers where in street clothes as part of their undercover work. Throughout the trial they were never able to prove that the officers identified themselves as policeman. While the undercover officers had their weapons drawn, an unmarked police van arrived effectively closing off the potential escape route of the individuals. Not knowing that the unmarked vehicle and the people with guns drawn on them were police officers, panic set in. Remember, it is early in the morning, alcohol is involved, and you have been trapped by individuals who have guns drawn you…what would you do?

Bell started to drive, narrowly missing one of the undercover officers before running into the unmarked police van. Bell then proceeded to reverse his course, backing the car up into a store front window and taking one more attempt and forcing his way pass the van. In the second attempt to pass the police vehicle, one of the officers declared “gun;” which was his gut reaction to the defendants moving in the car, after which the bullet storm began. In total over 50 shots were fired. Detective Michael Oliver in particular was responsible for firing 31 of these shots. The storyline and actions of the victims seems to warrant some type of police response. But, to what degree that response was should have been at the center of this case.

The beginning of Justice Cooperman’s opinion outlines the definition of a trial, which he says stated is a “formal examination of the facts of a case by a court of law to decide the validity of a charge. It is also defined in the dictionary as a hardship.” But, the key definition that Judge Cooperman overlooked was intent. The Law states that intent is the state of a person’s mind that directs his or her actions toward a specific object. The critical piece missing from this decision was what was the intent of the officers who fired 50 rounds at the victims?

Justice Cooperman speaks to this notion in the first third of his decision when he rationalized “It is important to note that in analyzing what happened here, it was necessary to consider the mind-set of each defendant at the time and place of occurrence, and not the mind-set of the victims.” If this is up for serious consideration, Cooperman seriously fails to go much further than this statement. This is the core of the case. What is the intention of a police officer who fires 31 shots at a victim? How does this incident not constitute criminal behavior? Where is the line between reasonable and excessive force? Unfortunately this was not included in the opinion.

The Bell case is a good representation of a situation that can create social unrest. In fact, I agree with the anger. I empathize with the community. But, I also understand the need for police to use force. However, future cases will need a clear interpretation of what constitutes a police officers right to use of force. This issue has been consistently overlooked over the last 20 years of court rulings. There is no standard. The moral code of wrongful death does not have its protection in the legal code. It is one issue that a young man is dead. It is another that the death came at the hands of the police. But, when the death seems to be excessive in nature and no criminal conduct is found, then what type of message is being sent or reinforced to our communities at large.

If the officers responsible for Bell’s death had been working undercover casing a specific group, then I would find it impossible to rule on the case without assessing the officer’s assumptions as they approached the car. What was their intention for confronting the individuals? As mentioned above, Judge Cooperman said that it was necessary to consider the mind-set of each defendant. Yet, near the end of the opinion, Cooperman steers away from his own introductory logic and concluded that “Questions of carelessness and incompetence must be left to other forums.” Doesn’t an individual’s mind-set encompass questions of carelessness and incompetence? If the mind-set is imperative to reaching a verdict, then how can this core question be passed along the judicial food chain?

Second-degree manslaughter is defined as recklessly causing someone’s death. To define an individuals recklessness, I would argue that the individual’s intention needs to be uncovered. I would not conclude that firing 31 times at a stationary vehicle is a reasonable use of force. Therefore, Judge Cooperman successfully passed along the ‘gray’ area of reasonable force to the next tragic incident. Until the courts are ready to provide a comprehensive definition of police force, social unrest will likely be the forgone conclusion for the time being.

Ding…you are NOT free to move around the country.

With US economic conditions bordering on the cliff overlooking the recession valley, finding means of escape is becoming more of a challenge. No longer are vacations a safe haven away from everyday worries and concerns. In fact, if you can reach your destination you have done more than the individual next to you.

With a summer full of travel agendas ahead and spring breakers tans fading a little bit more with every day back, how do consumers proactively manage their travel plans? For most individuals, the process is a 3 part play:

Act 1: Pick a location
Act 2: Check the bank account
Act 3: Put in your vacation Request

But, in the wake of over 3,000 delays last week alone, consumers need to add one more act to the travel play:

Act 4: Pray to the Travel Gods

On April 2 the FAA officially released its first Airworthiness Directives (AD’s) of the new year. AD’s outline FAA safety initiative’s that hold the airway masters accountable to industry safety standards. These initiatives are the brain child of the FAA stemming back to the 1940’s. Though a complete inconvenience to travelers lately, the newest round AD’s can proudly boast of a 99% industry compliance level across all carriers.

But, even though AD’s have a long line of industry influence the ability for major carriers to execute these yearly updates seems to get worse. When an AD is released, a timeline is established. These Directives can have compliance timeframes from immediate action to years depending on the severity of the safety issue. Though proactively knowing what issues will be listed by the FAA is not the airline industry’s strength, learning how to manage updates should be.

Obviously, safety is an expectation of airline passengers; but so is timing. Most travel plans rely upon it. It is why we choose the departure and arrival times that best fit our needs. It is the starting block. Hotels, Cruises, and even the family reunion caravan needs some form of an ETA. So, when the airlines are forced to comply with AD’s, they should also be forced to accommodate the customer. Unfortunately, this not always the case.

According to the Department of Transportation's Aviation Consumer Protection Division the only time airlines are legally responsible to provide compensation is when a passenger is bumped from an overbooked flight. I would contend that AD’s that ground a flight constitute being bumped. If the airline is not able to execute a reasonable tiered plan to fix the airplanes in their fleet, the end result being that the plane is not able to maintain its scheduled flight, then the passenger is bumped. This would not fit into the DOT’s current rule that the bump was the result of an overbooked flight. But, if the airline is unable to reasonably restructure its scheduled flights to maintain its compliance with AD’s, then alternative options need to be given to consumers. The legal binding of responsibility needs to be more consumer driven.

In a year that has seen the economy continue to falter, food prices on the rise, and gasoline prices dissolving what is left of middle class disposable income all we ask for is our escape route to be protected. Vacations traditionally allow for detachment and rejuvenation. On average, productivity increases upon the return of an employee. Therefore, a message to the Federal government and the airline companies: KEEP THE AIRWAYS OPEN. If you need to update, then plan accordingly. If you ruin the travel plans for your consumers, refund them or give them vouchers. Consumer spending confidence is at a 7 year lull, and flirting with economic confidence levels that were shaky during the Bush (41) presidency. If current trends in the aviation sector continue, the last thing middle class Americans will do with their economic stimulus rebate is buy a plane ticket.

Some still left in the tank

Kiln, Mississippi (YBT) --For the second time in as many days industry insiders are acknowledging that Brett Favre is considering a comeback. The 17 year NFL veteran has been in discussion with numerous contenders, in the NASCAR world.

NASCAR officials wouldn’t elaborate, but it appears that discussions between Favre and seasoned sponsor Quaker State have taken place in the last 48 hours. The deal would allow for a one year training grace period followed by his debut in 2009 in the Green and Gold Quaker State number 4 car. The boost to the Quaker line up would be the NASCAR equivalent to the Fab 5. From an industry star line up consisting Jimmy Johnson, Jeff Gordon, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Casey Mears, Favre would streamline a new fan base to the NASCAR family.

Quaker State’s Senior Vice President of Marketing Anne E. Tawney released a statement indicating:

“We do not want to confirm that any conversations have taken place between Quaker State and Mr. Favre. But, bringing in a proven winner to the Quaker Family will help promote our brand and increase our position in the marketplace. We work very hard to create awareness for the NASCAR campaign and adding such a recognizable individual to our industry will generate access to a fan base that we have not been able to build on yet.”

Other NASCAR officials also feel good about the rumored arrival of the former NFL star. Mike Helton, NASCAR president, mentioned that “I don’t know how much he would bring to the track, but I look forward to watching number 4 on Sunday’s again.” Though the heart beat of NASCAR fans do not embrace quote un quote ‘outsiders’ into their beloved sport, Favre represents the Southern blood the fuels the sports passion. Favre was born and raised in rural Mississippi and completed his college career at Southern Mississippi before being drafted in the second round of the 1991 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons.

Exchanging the Grid Iron for the Race Track, Favre will surely still feel comfortable on his Sunday stage. Favre set numerous NFL records throughout his legendary career such as most wins by a starting quarterback (160), consecutive starts (275) and touchdown passes (442). How this success will translate to the track can only play out over time. Jeff Gordon, potential future teammate of Favre, said in passing “I look forward to it! Just tell him to leave my records alone.” Early indications of possible supporting sponsors to Favre’s second career campaign include some of Wisconsin’s finest. Spokesman for Sargento Cheese, Leinenkugels, and Johnsonville Brats have all given indications that they would help keep the Favre-Wisconsin connection alive.

NFL insiders have failed to comment. With the recent news of Cincinnati’s WR Chris Henry’s release, one would think the NFL would want a positive story. At the kick off of Packer mini-camp, head coach Mike McCarthy laughed at the speculation that Favre would try his hand in racing. But McCarthy did state that, “Well, if I find myself with some free time, I won’t mind watching Brett on the track instead of across the sidelines.”

Recent reports indicate that Favre is considering a return to the NFL with a different team. In the LA Times columnist Sam Farmer wrote “Favre's agent has quietly inquired with teams about their interest in trading for the three-time NFL most valuable player. The sources did not indicate whether Favre knew of the inquiries.” Though the report appears to be a complete fabrication, many networks and media outlets have jumped on this non-story and given it staying power that shouldn’t even last as long as this one…

After all, the only green and gold Favre will be driving in retirement will be his John Deere tractor when he mows the lawn.

More money for Cab fare….

To break it down, this deal is statistically sound and financially clever. Talks between the Detroit Tigers and the perennial All-Star three bagger Miguel Cabrera are on the upside. The upside of these talks will send 153 million to the pockets of Cabrera and leave the Tigers in the upper echelons of a payroll contender. Only season’s end will provide the fitting conclusion to this very expensive World Series ticket investment.

I would like to applaud the Detroit Tigers. Not for trying to buy their way to a world series ring, but for getting ahead of the inflation curve and locking up a proven talent at a fair market cost. Baseball expenses are growing at such an unpredictable rate. Not before long 150 million will be the benchmark for a proven player. 5 years of consistent performance is a good indicator of performance over a longer MLB career. By then Rookie luck and sophomore slumps have subsided and all that is left is the ball player.

Cabrera’s contract will be the 4th largest in the league history. Cabrera would be the caboose in this money train: Manny Ramirez’s 160 million, Derek Jeter’s 189 million and the engine himself Alex Rodriguez at 275 million. When paying the monumental fees that talent now demands what type of productivity is a club investing in? Since Cabrera is on the sun rise of his prime the Tigers foresight may prove good dividends to their season ticket holders. Look at the first five relevant years of the other major players:


In examination of key statistical contributions, Cabrera shows himself relevant in all categories. He hits for average and power. His slugging percentage and OBP demonstrates his ability to extend the inning. Post Season success can be fueled by individual performance and the tigers just purchased their lineup spark plug. For a veteran line up that now graces Comerica Park including Magglio Ordonez, Edgar Renteria, and Gary Sheffield; Cabrera will be the legal performance enhancer.

Fantasy gurus and baseball pundits will head the congratulatory parade if the results pay off for the Tigers. But, strip away the investment, the predictions, and the obvious boost to the top heavy Detroit payroll and you have proven entity that will satisfy a growing Tiger fan base. The Tigers have seemingly beaten inflation, now they just need to beat the rest of the AL. The Tigers payroll has seen it sky rocket from roughly 69 million in 2005 to nearly 130 million in 2007. But one thing that baseball can still take solace in is that championships cannot be bought…the talent still needs to perform. Enjoy your money Miguel.

Conquering Fools

Today, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty awarded the mountaintop of MN justice to an old friend. It is this, a seemingly generous donation to another friend that warrants a good mental walk through.

My initial thought was what about the absence of a process similar to the US Supreme Court confirmation hearings? What about the Framer's idea that there should remain that barrier between the executive office and the bar of judicial reason? Should this process be discarded on the grounds that this is how it has always been executed? Or should one Minnesota tradition be reevaluated.

Obviously, these questions are bigger than a short dip in the pool of judicial nominations. But the opportunity is present.

There are numerous reasons why our government system has a 3 branch system in place. It assures that motivations of the pillars of government are kept in check and regulated by each other. It doesn’t allow our system to be overwhelmed by alliances between any two of the three. In this case, the executive is allowed the opportunity to hand pick the next candidate. End of story. But in the age of partisan strategy, is a neutral candidate a realistic conclusion? Or has the media transformed me into the political skeptic?

Now in all fairness, justices are elected to Minnesota’s highest court for 6 year terms. But, in light of court vacancies, the Governor retains the right to appoint the successor. But, even though this vacancy was made public weeks ago, isn’t there enough time to arrange for an election? Why not promote from within? In this case, the Governor’s appointee is the first to be Chief Justice to not have any court experience in the last 70 years…or since FDR was rolling around the white house. Why the break in tradition? Was the court lacking a competent replacement? Highly doubtful, but in light of change in the public arena all the right things will be said so we will never get the full breathe of internal whispering.

If the state were to propose having some type of approval hearing arranged at least the appearance of a legitimate process would be in place. Having a dual party board or a panel of sitting state justices interview the candidate would be sounder and would leave less room for Governor favors; especially in this case. Had the newly appointed Chief Justice not been a former Law partner of the Governor maybe the distrust wouldn’t be as strong. Now the disadvantages to having this additional step in the approval process would take time, funding, and a revision to the state laws for selecting justices. I feel that 2 of the 3 are easy to arrange. It is the funding that is the key. The Governor is already calling for a 4% decrease in court funding state wide in his new budget plans. In light of this, allocating any more capital to start what essentially would be another bureaucratic committee is far from happening. But, stepping away from the funding and time, the final rationale would revolve around doing the right thing. Now it seems that today’s appointment has gone as smoothly as possible. It doesn’t appear that a lot of backlash has been stirred and that not too much will remain of this subject after this posting. But, to give the public the right representative in our courts, then the right process should be in place.

So be it for my two cents…

Intro

This is what it is. Take it as you may. This is not meant to spar individual ideology but rather to bring about a collective conscious to work towards solutions…plural. In our complex world (or when we make it complicated) there usually is not one line of reasoning that is the end all. Things, thoughts, events, and all in between can become better understood when we allow some time to rationalize our own individual conclusions. It is when we are rushed or poorly influenced that we fail to grasp the core of anything. Give it time, it will come.

With that in mind I want to cover it all. History, Politics, Social issues, and Sports are my passion. With that in mind, let it begin.