« October 2006 | Main | December 2006 »
November 30, 2006
Casualties of Protectionism
From the Wasthington Post:
Latin Americans Wonder If Democrats Are TradersMEDELLIN, Colombia -- At the CI Jeans factory, where 3,900 people make their livings turning bolts of denim into trousers bound for the United States, the American market -- land of the customer -- appears to be slipping away...
"We watch the news and we're nervous about what might happen with what we send to the United States," said Janeth Palacio Ramirez, 35, who supports her 15-year-old daughter and her elderly parents by punching zipper stops onto 7,000 pairs of jeans a day, earning about $200 a month. "Everything we make here goes there, so if there are problems with exports, we'll all lose our jobs."
Posted by Peter Mork at 5:48 PM | Comments | TrackBack
November 23, 2006
Thanksgiving Day Story
On the front page of the Press Democrat this mornining, there was a nice article about a family giving thanks for the opportunity to live the American Dream. Read on:
Giving ThanksAs Miguel and Enedina Ortega of Petaluma sit at the head of a big family table today, it will be the culmination of a Thanksgiving celebration that this year carries a lot more significance than usual.
It was important to round up all family members this holiday because the Ortegas are going home - back across the border to their village in Mexico, taking their dog, Enedina's stove and the satisfaction that they accomplished what they came to America for.
"My job is finished," said Miguel Ortega, 68, who has worked and lived at the same Petaluma dairy ranch for 28 years.
They leave behind their grown children, grandchildren, friends, church, employers and the strawberry plants Miguel put in this month.
Their tale is one of frugality, perseverance, hard work and sacrifice. It also is a story of loyalty, integrity and family. Above all, it is a tribute to a land of opportunity.
Posted by Peter Mork at 10:38 AM | Comments | TrackBack
November 21, 2006
Is Anarchy on the Streets a Good Thing?
Could getting rid of traffic laws make people better drivers and ultimately safer? Not too long ago I would have written off the idea as absurd. But when I read this post over at Cato that talks about how 7 European cities are doing away with traffic signs, I thought they just might be onto something.
The change of heart comes after spending some time in Vietnam. Half the fun of being in HCMC came from standing on a street corner and marveling at how well the traffic flows despite the complete lack of rules.
Read the article above and then take a look at this video from 13 Months for a firsthand look into this “controlled chaos” in Hanoi.