Struck In Traffic - Politics, Economics, Entertainment & Society

American Economics Blog Carnival - Aug 1, 2008

2008-08-01T20:12:00.004-04:00

Welcome to the Aug 1, 2008 edition of American Economics Blog Carnival

The state of the American Economy affects both domestic and international affairs, as well as the financial stability of households and businesses around the world. In an age of globalization, it is important to understand things that influence American economics. This bi-monthly blog carnival includes articles and editorials that reflect various economic topics, realities and perceptions, as well as some information on how to deal with the personal impacts of national economic shifts.

Here are the articles selected for this edition:

Livingalmostlarge presents ALTO - illegal immigation? posted at LivingAlmostLarge, saying, "Should we stop illegal immigration? Will it hurt or help the economy?"

Anthony Luafalealo presents Gas Prices: Print Media's #1 Enemy posted at Amateur Economists, saying, "Gas prices are eating into people's discretionary income, and as people are giving up paper publications in favor of the Net, technology companies are meeting their needs by making it easier for them to get information online. This could mean tough times ahead for print media."

Dorian Wales presents The Big Mac Index – Applying Simple Economic Common Sense posted at The Personal Financier, saying, "Simple ”quick and dirty” economic modeling can give powerful insight"

Linus Bille presents $1,000,000,000,000 posted at viraltimes.com, saying, "1 billion Iraq war dollars put into perspective."

Leon Gettler presents China Syndrome posted at Sox First, saying, "The Chinese economy is starting sputter and that has enormous implications for the US and global economies"

Joe Manausa presents Housing Prices Decline Slightly - A Clear Picture Is Forming posted at Tallahassee Real Estate Blog, saying, "While there have been many articles written on the declining real estate market, most are filled with facts and figures that are difficult for the lay-person to follow. This article is filled with easy-to-understand graphs that demonstrate the modest decline in home prices."

Allen in Fort Worth presents The Cost Is Going Up. Therefore We're Going To Use More??? posted at The Whited Sepulchre, saying, "here's a post on a violation of basic economics."

GrrlScientist presents Thoughts on Poverty in America posted at Living the Scientific Life, saying, "Our federal poverty threshold is identified using an antiquated model that ends up harming more than it helps."

KCLau presents How to Calculate Your Investment Portfolio Return? posted at KCLau's Money Tips, saying, "About how to calculate your investment portfolio returns."

Ben Dinsmore presents Who Owns American Oil Companies: My Garbage Man Does! posted at Trees Full of Money, saying, "A closer look at who really profits from the steadily rising price of energy!"

Helen Anderson presents 5 Credit Card Fees You Probably Didn’t Know About posted at Bankaholic.

Silicon Valley Blogger presents Split Real Estate Markets: Which Homes Are Holding Up In Value? posted at The Digerati Life, saying, "Musings on the real estate market -- how linked is it to other markets?"

Chris Harris presents An idea to fix mortgage origination posted at New venture outsourcing blog.

Joel Gray presents Identity Theft Statistics Are Extremely Alarming posted at Finance Tips 101.

Charles H. Green presents From Financial Relationships to Financial Transactions, Losing Trust on the Way posted at Trusted Advisor Associates, saying, "What happens when transaction benefits are shifted to the long term while transactions persist over much longer terms.

Phil B. presents Stop Using Credit Cards « Phil for Humanity posted at Phil for Humanity, saying, "Save money by stop using credit cards."

Doug Ragan presents Congress Opens Self To Law Suit Over Oil Prices posted at I'm A Pundit Too, saying, "Let me start out by saying that this isn’t going to go over very well at all, but that never stopped me before. I have decided that it is indeed time to sue the US Congress over the high price of energy, and the bill they tried to pass earlier this year has opened them up to the suit."

Hilary Green presents Understanding the Hybrid Car Tax Credit posted at The Green Motorist.

Decision Care presents 5 Essential Habits to Avoid Financial Disasters posted at DecisionCare, saying, "An important article about using simple tips to prepare for financial crises. Thanks for reading!"

Billy Akerman presents Drilling In America posted at Left And Right Politics, saying, "What needs to be done for our survival? Here's a look. Thanks for hosting this carnival."

APH presents Urbanism Legend: Gas Taxes and Fees Cover All Costs of Road Use posted at Market Urbanism, saying, "No doubt, mass production of the automobile is one of the greatest innovations of all times. It has allowed for increased mobility of goods and people, which has greatly improved productivity and leisure. But, is subsidizing mobility at the expense of taxpayers taking things too far?"

Submitters are encouraged to submit only their best articles relating to the American Economy and/or the impacts of globalization.

Related Posts:

American Economics Blog Carnival, July 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, July 1, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival - June 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, May 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, May 1, 2008

Sunday Struck Video Break - John Mayer - Say

2008-07-26T23:23:00.004-04:00

This week I was STRUCK by another one of John Mayer's songs Say. I really like the message and lyrics of this song, and it's one of those songs that just makes you want to do something good for yourself or others. Take a few minutes to watch, then "say what you need to say":

Related Posts:

Sunday Struck Video Break - Supergrass
Sunday Struck Video Break - Coldplay
Sunday Struck Video Break - Semisonic
Sunday Struck Video Break - Fall Out Boy
Sunday Struck Video Break - Forever the Sickest Kids
Sunday Struck Video Break - Weezer

Excited about Clone Wars

2008-07-17T11:37:00.003-04:00

I am super excited about the upcoming release of the new Star Wars The Clone Wars movie coming out in a few weeks. I saw the trailer while at another movie, and the animation STRUCK me as very unique, almost like a feature length video game.

If haven't seen it, here's one of the trailers:

How cool was that? I can't wait to see it!

American Economics Blog Carnival - July 15, 2008

2008-07-15T02:39:00.003-04:00

Welcome to the July 15, 2008 edition of American Economics Blog Carnival

The state of the American Economy affects both domestic and international affairs, as well as the financial stability of households and businesses around the world. In an age of globalization, it is important to understand things that influence American economics. This bi-monthly blog carnival includes articles and editorials that reflect various economic topics, realities and perceptions, as well as some information on how to deal with the personal impacts of national economic shifts.

Here are the articles selected for this edition:

Neelakantha presents 8 Ways the Bush Administration Has Caused the Oil Price Boom posted at Currency Trading.net.

Dorian Wales presents Free Market Proponents Call for Regulation on Speculative Oil Futures Trading: Define Irony posted at The Personal Financier, saying, "Analysts say speculative oil trading is to blame for gas prices at $4 a gallon. Congress considers regulation and legislation. What happened to market forces of supply and demand?"

Matthew Philip presents $4.00 per Gallon Gas: The Environment, Economy, and You posted at EnviroHumanImpact, saying, "We recently ran an article detailing the forces behind the rising price of gasoline and how it effects the economy, the environment, and the consumer. Very comprehensive, very well linked, and very interesting for the reader."

R.Pettinger presents Problems of Credit Crunch posted at Economics Essays, saying, "Problems arising from credit crunch and the problems still to come."

Matt DiChiara presents Suburban Wastelands posted at MyNewPlace Blog.

Toni Graybill presents What is wealth? posted at Maximize Health and Wealth, saying, "Everyone talks about it. But do we all mean the same thing?"

KCLau presents How inflation affects your life? posted at KCLau's Money Tips, saying, "n article on how inflation can affect your life. Also, I am giving away a book based on a 10-year study of 200,000 managers and employees. It shows you how the best managers use recognition to engage their people, retain talent and accelerate performance. You will get this great book written by Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton - THE CARROT PRINCIPLE."

Jeffrey Kramer presents Fuel Hedging in the Airline Industry - Calls and Collars posted at Economic Outlook, saying, "This article details how airlines hedge fuel prices using call options and collars."

Allen in Fort Worth presents The Colombia Free Trade Agreement posted at The Whited Sepulchre, saying, "Naomi Klein recently wrote an editorial praising the University of Chicago faculty who petitioned against the new Milton Friedman Institute. She shouldn't have."

Ben Dinsmore presents Is It Finally Time to Drill in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR)? posted at Trees Full of Money, saying, "Call me a pig, but I am 100% in favor of drilling in ANWR, but unlike the mainstream media I am not naïve to think that it will completely solve our energy problems."

Nick presents Economics? solution to Environmental and energy policy posted at EcoFuss Green News, saying, "A rant on how annoying it is that the government strays away from simple economics when making policy decisions regarding increasing/limiting energy consumption and other environmental issues"

Leon Gettler presents The credit crunch - worst still ahead posted at Sox First, saying, "An alarming survey from credit insurance giant Atradius. The 14-country survey found that a vast majority of companies, particularly those in the US, were expecting an impact down the track than what had already been experienced. In other words, the worst is still to come."

Silicon Valley Blogger presents Profit From The Weak U.S. Dollar With Currency Plays And Other Strategies posted at The Digerati Life.

Toni Graybill presents The Road to Wealth is Stuff posted at Maximize Health and Wealth, saying, "Free markets and a growth economy in laymen's terms."

Madeleine Begun Kane presents Wham! Bam! No Thank You, Phil Gramm! posted at Mad Kane's Political Madness.

Submitters are encouraged to submit only their best articles relating to the American Economy and/or the impacts of globalization.

Related Posts:

American Economics Blog Carnival, July 1, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival - June 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, May 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, May 1, 2008

Sunday Struck Video Break - Supergrass

2008-07-13T20:13:00.002-04:00

I loved this song when it first came out over 10 years ago, and I think it is just as good today. Always STRUCK me as a fun song. Check out Supergrass singing Alright (video clip):

Nice and clean ;-)

Related Posts:

Sunday Struck Video Break - Coldplay
Sunday Struck Video Break - Semisonic
Sunday Struck Video Break - Fall Out Boy
Sunday Struck Video Break - Forever the Sickest Kids
Sunday Struck Video Break - Weezer

Wanna See a Slinky Skateboard and Dance

2008-07-07T11:09:00.002-04:00

I missed Sunday Struck Video Break this week due to family fun this July 4th weekend, so I thought I'd share my favorite video of the week with you on Monday instead.

Ever seen a slinky skateboard? Dance? Fly? Here's a fun video by Powderfinger for their song My Happiness (short video):

I love that song! Thanks to a friend on cre8Buzz for sharing the song with me!

Related Posts:

Sunday Struck Video Break - Coldplay
Sunday Struck Video Break - Semisonic
Sunday Struck Video Break - Fall Out Boy
Sunday Struck Video Break - Forever the Sickest Kids
Sunday Struck Video Break - Weezer

Fourth of July Tribute - The Soldier

2008-07-04T12:39:00.002-04:00

It's easy to say that you support our soldiers, even if you don't support the wars that our country is currently involved in fighting. These brave men and women put themselves in harms ways to protect the liberties and freedoms that we as Americans enjoy, and I have a tremendous amount of respect for those willing to lay their lives on the line so that I can live in a land of opportunity.

Personally, I don't agree with every decision made to put our soldiers in harms way, and while America does have a responsibility as a global leader to protect and promote democracy, we do not need to be the world's police force. Our soldiers are not part of the political decisions though, at least not the average soldiers on the front lines executing the missions on a daily basis. And they deserve our thanks for the job they do and risks they take.

I'm proud of the short time I spent in the military, and I'm proud of the many friends I have in the armed forces. Pride is something the military teaches you, and it is contagious to those around you.

This tribute video reminds me of the pride I feel when I meet and talk to veterans and active duty soldiers. I hope you will take a few minutes to watch, listen and think of our soldiers past and present today:

It's an honor to be an American, and I appreciate those who protect my rights at home and abroad. Happy July 4th!

American Economics Blog Carnival - July 1, 2008

2008-07-01T20:20:00.008-04:00

Welcome to the July 1, 2008 edition of American Economics Blog Carnival

The state of the American Economy affects both domestic and international affairs, as well as the financial stability of households and businesses around the world. In an age of globalization, it is important to understand things that influence American economics. This bi-monthly blog carnival includes articles and editorials that reflect various economic topics, realities and perceptions, as well as some information on how to deal with the personal impacts of national economic shifts.

Here are the articles selected for this edition:

Dr. Steven J. Balassi presents Worldly Economic Thoughts: CEO Urges Obama, McCain Not to Talk Down Economy posted at Worldly Economic Thoughts.

Brian M Chin presents Why Gas Price Increases Aren't Really Affecting Your Finances posted at beechin blog.

Cindy King presents Can You Learn From International Social Predictions On Rising Gas Prices? posted at Cindy King, saying, "A German Guys Social Prediction On Rising Gas Prices and How They Will Impact America"

Jeffrey Kramer presents The Future of Oil and Gas - Part 1 of 5 posted at Economic Outlook, saying, "Hello, I have a series of video and text blogs that discuss oil prices." Jeffrey also shares The Airline Industry (Part 1).

Silicon Valley Blogger presents The Weak U.S. Dollar And How The World Is Pwning Us » Money and Personal Finance Blog In Silicon Valley posted at The Digerati Life.

Allen in Fort Worth presents The Minimum Wage Increases Are Working ! ! ! posted at The Whited Sepulchre, saying, "here's where the Law Of Unintended Consequences kicks in." Allen also shares You Owe Your Soul To The Company Store .

Michel Fortin presents Are All Business People Dishonest? posted at The Michel Fortin Blog.

Helen Anderson presents 8 Tips for Saving Money and Your Life at Personal Finance Blog, Budgeting, Debt @ Bankaholic posted at Bankaholic.

Joanne presents The Real Reason for Inflation and Deflation posted at Open Mind Required.

APH presents Urbanism Legend: Zoning Creates Density posted at Market Urbanism, saying, "In many different contexts, I have heard people argue that liberalizing zoning restrictions will cause “overdevelopment” or high density development filled with low income people. Even in relatively low density areas, people make the sensationalist argument that if zoning restrictions were lifted, high rises would be built in their community, creating congestion and overburdening infrastructure."

KCLau presents Personal Asset Inventory Template posted at KCLau's Money Tips, saying, "On why one shud write a wll. What personal assests inventory and what items should be included under it."

Shan Siddiqi presents My business doesn?t pay taxes because it?s too expensive posted at Globally Rational.

Brice Hogan presents Avoiding the Worst posted at Financialzip.com.

Leon Gettler presents Banking squeeze posted at Sox First, saying, "Lehman Brothers $2.8 billion loss is a warning for investors: banks simply don’t trust each other any more which is a worry for anyone who has invested their money in financial services."

Dan Ray presents Is this a recession? It quacks like one, says new Fed paper posted at blogs.creditcards.com, saying, "If it walks like a recession and quacks like a recession, it's probably a recession, says a new working paper from a Philadelphia Fed researcher."

Jose DeJesus MD presents Creating Incentives and Recognizing Excellence in Your Employees posted at Physician Entrepreneur.

Phil B. presents What is Rich? <<> posted at Phil for Humanity, saying, "Almost everyone has a different definition of being rich."

The Shark Investor presents Do It Yourself Projects As a Source of Alternative Income posted at The Shark Investor.

the baglady presents What About the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)? posted at xynny.

Charles H. Green presents How Too Many Legal Contracts Are Costing Business posted at Trusted Advisor Associates, saying, "The combined transaction costs of too many contracts may be an actual drag on the economy."

Submitters are encouraged to submit only their best articles relating to the American Economy and/or the impacts of globalization.

Related Posts:

American Economics Blog Carnival - June 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, May 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, May 1, 2008

Election 2008 Video Battle

2008-06-30T11:18:00.005-04:00

Election 2008 will be fought, debated and discussed in all of the traditional ways. You will get pamphlets in the mail; you will see TV commercials; and, the candidates and their cronies will be stumping through your state. If you get a chance to see a candidate speak in person, I would strongly recommend it.

There is a new battlefield, primarily among young voters, in which the candidates will wage a more visual and, some might say, manipulative war for the presidency. Personally, I think this is a good thing - more opportunity and access to information is always better, in my mind. You should strive to learn both sides of the story though.

So, what is this new battlefield? YouTube's You Choose '08 Channel.

I'd definitely recommend exploring this video channel, as it has much more in-depth videos than you see on the regular news. Keep in mind that many of them are edited with a certain spin though, so seek out a variety of sources before making up your mind about where the candidates stand on specific issues.

No matter who you vote for this year, please make sure you vote!

Sunday Struck Video Break - Coldplay

2008-06-29T12:20:00.003-04:00

This week I was STRUCK by The Scientist by Coldplay (video below):

"Nobody said it was easy..."

Related Posts:

Sunday Struck Video Break - Semisonic
Sunday Struck Video Break - Fall Out Boy
Sunday Struck Video Break - Forever the Sickest Kids
Sunday Struck Video Break - Weezer

Sunday Struck Video Break - Semisonic

2008-06-22T01:08:00.003-04:00

No one likes closing time, but this song STRUCK me as pretty cool back in the '90s. Semisonic's song Closing Time would have been a hit no matter when it was released (video clip below):

Related Posts:

Sunday Struck Video Break - Fall Out Boy
Sunday Struck Video Break - Forever the Sickest Kids
Sunday Struck Video Break - Weezer
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 19, 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 11, 2008

Barack Obama on Jimmy Kimmel - Father's Day Fun

2008-06-19T13:08:00.002-04:00

At times, it's good to look at a lighter side of politicians - it makes them more human. Here's a short video of Obama with Jimmy Kimmel:

Basketball court in the White House - I wonder if any other heads of state will play Barack one-on-one?

Related Posts:

Barack Obama on Economic Policy and Responsible Government
The Energy Sector is a Mess - Obama's Position
Economics Can Be Funny

Have You Ever Been on Blog Talk Radio?

2008-06-17T23:10:00.004-04:00

After today, I have! I had a great time as a guest on Soapbox Radio, and I really appreciate all of the people who tuned into the live show and participated in the online chat room. It's always a little uncomfortable to spend an hour talking about myself, but I think Nicole (Soapbox Mom) did a great job conducting the interview. Thanks Nicole!

If you missed the show, I have the podcast recording to share with you. It's exactly one hour, so grab a beer, glass of wine or cup of coffee and enjoy listening to me ramble. I'd love to know your feedback, as well as answer any questions that we were unable to get to on the show today.

Here's the podcast:

Also, since I mentioned several other bloggers on the show that you may or may not know, here is a list of those people and links to their blogs.

Jim at The Busy Dad Blog, Chuck at D is for Dad, Jason at iVegasFamily, Tyler at Building Camelot, Joe at Joeprah, Mr Lady at Whiskey in My Sippy Cup, Jen at Huckdoll's Hood, Kim at Jogging In Circles, Piper at Bliss in Bloom, Kelby at Type-A Mom and Dadosphere, Matt at The Playpen on Redsparks

Also, the other sites that I publish that were discussed in the interview are: American History Quotes, World History Quotes, Thoughts On Quotes, Lead Inspectors, Discovering Dad and Artistic Pursuit. Nicole mentioned that I was also working on a few other "secret" projects, which I hope to share with you all over the coming months (very excited about them too)!

We also spent a lot of time talking about personal growth and development, and I mentioned a book that was particularly meaningful to me. If you want to buy it, here's my Amazon link to it: Now, Discover Your Strengths (book) or Now, Discover Your Strengths (audiobook). I strongly recommend this incredible book and taking the StrengthsFinder test that comes with it.

Thanks again to Nicole at Soapbox Mom for having me on her show today. I really enjoyed sharing more about me, my sites and my life. I feel very fortunate every day to be able to connect with so many great people through blogging, including you!

Please fee free to share your feedback or ask questions that came from listening to the interview. I'll try to answer them all!

If you want to stay updated on Struck In Traffic, please subscribe to my feed.

Welcome Soapbox Radio Listeners!

2008-06-16T12:45:00.002-04:00

I just wanted to take a quick minute to say "Welcome!" to all of the Soapbox Radio listeners who are visiting Struck In Traffic for the first time. This site features a variety of topics, including my political ramblings, thoughts on the economy, favorite videos and other personal observations about society in general.

Here are a few of the most popular articles that I've written:

10 Things Politicians Do that Drive Voters Nuts
Should U.S. Voters Embrace Multi-Party Election System
Superdelegates - Protectors of Democratic Ideals
Campaign Spending Is Out of Control
Smart Goals Attract Volunteers

In addition, I have a fun video series posted every Sunday with my favorite video of the week:

Sunday Struck Video Break - Fall Out Boy
Sunday Struck Video Break - Forever the Sickest Kids
Sunday Struck Video Break - Weezer
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 19, 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 11, 2008

I also host a popular blog carnival called American Economics Blog Carnival twice monthly, featuring some great posts on the state of the American economy and how it affects both domestic and international affairs. If you have an article about this topic, please feel free to submit an entry.

If you want to stay updated on my postings to this site, please subscribe to my feed.

Thanks again to Soapbox Mom for featuring me on her show this week! I hope to see you all back here again soon!

American Economics Blog Carnival - June 15, 2008

2008-06-16T00:58:00.003-04:00

Welcome to the June 15, 2008 edition of American Economics Blog Carnival

The state of the American Economy affects both domestic and international affairs, as well as the financial stability of households and businesses around the world. In an age of globalization, it is important to understand things that influence American economics. This bi-monthly blog carnival includes articles and editorials that reflect various economic topics, realities and perceptions, as well as some information on how to deal with the personal impacts of national economic shifts.

Here are the articles selected for this edition:

Leon Gettler presents The oil squeeze posted at Sox First, saying, "Oil prices have dropped slightly but it's not over yet. The oil price will continue to rise simply because there is an issue of supply constraints biting against soaring global demand."

Heather Johnson presents 5 Tips for Freelancing Success posted at income for everyone.

Sean Carmody presents Anatomy of a Bubble posted at A Stubborn Mule's Perspective, saying, "Some reflections on the asset bubbles following the sub-prime meltdown."

Shaheen Lakhan presents Conflicts of Interest Among Physicians posted at GNIF Brain Blogger, saying, "At the heart of the issue is whether physicians are just being bought by companies and whether they are not looking out for their patient’s best interest."

Shan Siddiqi presents My business doesn?t pay taxes because it?s too expensive posted at Globally Rational.

Edmund Ross presents Pursuing renewable energy will create jobs and get us off of oil posted at Political Bull.

Save Money presents Changing How I Save Money in My ING Accounts posted at How I Save Money.net.

Allen in Fort Worth presents Free Trade's Benefits Are Not A Paradox (Shhh...The children might be listening.) posted at The Whited Sepulchre, saying, "here's my analysis of a great writer at work. Enjoy."

Sagar presents 10 Surprising Implications of the Global Rise in Food Prices posted at Currency Trading.net.

Brice Hogan presents Avoiding the Worst posted at Financialzip.com, saying, "Learning from the past and how to counteract the affects of stagglation."

Phil B. presents Inheritance is Not Capitalism « Phil for Humanity posted at Phil for Humanity, saying, "Yesterday, I had an epiphany. Simply put, inheritance is anti-capitalism."

Heather Johnson presents 5 Tips for Surviving a Recession Unscathed posted at Fortune Watch.

mmhabits presents Why are Gas Prices so High? posted at Millionaire Money Habits, saying, "Wondering why gas prices are so high and how much you can expect to pay at the pump by the end of summer? Read this post to get all your questions answered."

Recoil presents Obama Will Raise Taxes - McCain Says DRILL! posted at Double Barreled Opinions.

Jose DeJesus MD presents Business Startup - Testing Your Idea and Yourself posted at Physician Entrepreneur.

Praveen presents Why Are Mortgage Rates High? posted at My Simple Trading System.

Submitters are encouraged to submit only their best articles relating to the American Economy and/or the impacts of globalization.

Related Posts:
American Economics Blog Carnival, May 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, May 1, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, April 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, April 1, 2008

Sunday Struck Video Break - Fall Out Boy

2008-06-08T22:56:00.003-04:00

I've been STRUCK by a "memory" theme lately - guess I'm feeling nostalgic. Anyway, the song Thanks for the Memories by Fall Out Boy totally rocks, and the video is hilarious (video below):

Related Posts:

Sunday Struck Video Break - Forever the Sickest Kids
Sunday Struck Video Break - Weezer
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 19, 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 11, 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 4, 2008

Kid Rock - All Summer Long Video

2008-06-04T10:57:00.003-04:00

I've been thinking a lot about summer lately, and this song brings back some great memories of my high school days down South.

Video of Kid Rock's song All Summer Long:

Hope you have a great summer!

American Economics Blog Carnival - June 1, 2008

2008-05-31T22:44:00.003-04:00

Welcome to the June 1, 2008 edition of American Economics Blog Carnival.

The state of the American economy affects both domestic and international affairs, as well as the financial stability of households and businesses around the world. In an age of globalization, it is important to understand things that influence American economics. This bi-monthly blog carnival includes articles and editorials that reflect various economic topics, realities and perceptions, as well as some information on how to deal with the personal impacts of national economic shifts.

Here are the articles selected for this edition:

Alan K Rudi presents Society, World Change, Globalization, and Business posted at Successful Business Leadership.

Christopher Johnson presents Tax Rebates, Economic Stimulus, And Annual Bonuses posted at christopheraaronjohnson.net.

Michael Snyder presents Radical Depopulation Of The Earth - The Solution To Mankind's Problems? posted at Shattered Paradigm.

Rickey Henderson presents A Memo from the Office of Steven R. Lawlor, CPA, to Indiana Jones posted at Riding with Rickey.

Timothy Moreland presents Obama and Clinton Backwards on Manufacturing Sector posted at timmorelandonline, saying, "This post analyzes the Democrats' take on free trade and manufacturing in America."

Mark Schauss presents What do the Numbers on Your Fruits and Vegetables Mean? posted at Toxic World Blog - Detoxify and Heal Your Body.

Jose DeJesus MD presents Cash Before Treatment - The Crisis in Medical Care Funding posted at Physician Entrepreneur.

Mag Herrera presents What I like about Credit Cards posted at Life. Money. Development., saying, "A balanced review of credit cards' nature and usage."

Save Money presents Save Money In An Emergency Fund posted at How I Save Money.net.

El Burro presents CBS Buys Bleeding-Edge Company CNET, Color Tele-Vision To Follow posted at wonky donky, saying, "M&A Alert!: CBS taking huge risk on this sure-to-fail, n’er-do-well 'in-ter-net' contraption."

Leon Gettler presents "Good" economic news: glass empty or half-full? posted at Sox First.

Dorian Wales presents Higher Gas Prices: A Blessing in Disguise or an American Wakeup Call posted at Personal Financier, saying, "Higher gas prices have got Americans driving less and public transport has never been this busy - A blessing in disguise?"

Carla Alvarez presents Contradictory Messages About Business Confidence posted at Legacy Marketing Services.

APH presents How McCain or Obama Can Permanently Eliminate the Gas Tax, Cut Pork, Help the Environment, and Save Face posted at Market Urbanism.

Larry Russell presents The Top 25 Low Cost Best US Money Market Funds posted at THE SKILLED INVESTOR Blog.

Edmund Ross presents Tax Rebate Smoke and Mirrors to Stimulate the Economy posted at Political Bull.

Chris Carter presents Why the Gas Tax Should Be RAISED posted at David Makes Cents.com.

Wenchypoo presents Taxing the Rich? Hell, You Can't Even SOAK 'Em! posted at Wisdom From Wenchypoo's Mental Wastebasket.

Matt DiChiara presents Apartment Rental News Top Story: Federal Housing Measure on the Move posted at MyNewPlace Blog.

Uncle Leo presents The Regulatory Dilemma with Derivatives posted at Uncle Leo Rumbles.

Dollar Frugal presents Use Company Vehicle for Company Errands posted at Dollar Frugal.

Master Your Card presents Why America NEEDS a Recession posted at Master Your Card.

Yi Hui Chang presents Be a conscious shopper posted at The Simple Wealth.

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of American Economics Blog Carnival using our carnival submission form. The carnival is posted on the 1st and 15th of every month, with submissions due 2-3 days prior.

Submitters are encouraged to submit only their best articles relating to the American Economy and/or the impacts of globalization.

Related Posts:

American Economics Blog Carnival, May 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, May 1, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, April 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, April 1, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, March 15, 2008

Sunday Struck Video Break - Forever The Sickest Kids

2008-05-31T21:38:00.002-04:00

This week I was STRUCK by Forever the Sickest Kids video Whoa Oh! (Me vs. Everyone). It's a rockin' video that I hope you enjoy too:

Have a great Sunday!

Related Posts:

Sunday Struck Video Break - Weezer
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 19, 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 11, 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 4, 2008

Memorial Day - A Day to Remember and Be Proud

2008-05-26T01:46:00.005-04:00

Memorial Day is a U.S. Federal holiday, in which the men and women who served and died in the line of duty are honored. I'm proud to be an American, and I appreciate all that our brave men and women in uniform have done to protect and preserve our way of life.

As such, I felt it appropriate to share this video by Lee Greenwood for his song God Bless the USA:

Related Posts:

Tear by Tear - Iraq War Video set to Sister Hazel

Sunday Struck Video Break - May 25, 2008 - Weezer

2008-05-24T22:42:00.003-04:00

Weezer has always been one of my favorite bands. Why? Because their songs are smart and funny, and now they've got a great video that truly shows the best side of the viral video world and all of its pseudo-celebrities. If you're not STRUCK by Pork and Beans by Weezer, then check your pulse - you're probably not breathing (video below).

Related Posts:

Sunday Struck Video Break - May 19, 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 11, 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 4, 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - April 27. 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - April 20, 2008

Early Arrival and Wii Contest - STRUCK in Babyland

2008-05-22T23:29:00.004-04:00

Sorry for the light activity this week everyone. My wife and I were STRUCK on Monday morning with a surprise arrival of our little girl 6 weeks early! Mom and baby are doing well. If you'd like to see a brief slideshow, you can visit one of my other sites and see my beautiful new addition.

Since the baby is still in the hospital, I am running a contest on another site, and I wanted to share the opportunity with readers here too.

'Bringing Out the Kid in You' Contest - Win a Nintendo Wii game system!!!

Anyone can enter - see the post for a few rules and requirements.

Thanks for your ongoing support, and I'll look forward to getting back to normal posting soon!

Sunday Struck Video Break - May 19, 2008

2008-05-18T01:15:00.002-04:00

I was STRUCK this week by Rockin' the Suburbs by Ben Folds Five (video):

"Ya'll don't know what it's like bein' male, middle-class and white...." I just had to laugh. Life is good, and it's good to poke fun at ourselves from time to time.

Related Posts:

Sunday Struck Video Break - May 11, 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - May 4, 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - April 27. 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - April 20, 2008
Sunday Struck Video Break - April 13, 2008

American Economics Blog Carnival - May 15, 2008

2008-05-15T11:07:00.002-04:00

Welcome to the May 15, 2008 edition of American Economics Blog Carnival.

The state of the American economy affects both domestic and international affairs, as well as the financial stability of households and businesses around the world. In an age of globalization, it is important to understand things that influence American economics. This bi-monthly blog carnival includes articles and editorials that reflect various economic topics, realities and perceptions, as well as some information on how to deal with the personal impacts of national economic shifts.

Here are the articles selected for this edition:

Christopher Johnson presents Saving Money At The Gas Pumps posted at christopheraaronjohnson.net.

R.Pettinger presents Why is the US not in a Recession? posted at Economics Essays, saying, "Despite popular belief, the US economy is not officially in a recession. Why is this?"

Heather Johnson presents 8 Recommended Sites for Economic Research posted at Quantitative Trading.

Phil B. presents Subsidies and Tariffs are Anti-Capitalism « Phil for Humanity posted at Phil for Humanity, saying, "Are subsides and tariffs fair in a free market?"

Steve Faber presents - When the Bush Tax Cuts Expire - For the Rest of Us posted at DebtBlog.

Uncle Leo presents America: a Nation of Bailouts? posted at Uncle Leo Rumbles.

Danny Simkin presents American crisis-lite, very lite | Sub-prime mortgage crisis doesn't start a major recession posted at Samson BLinded.

Jim Glass presents You thought the 2007 federal budget deficit was only $163 billion? How about $2.4 trillion by the accounting rules the private sector uses! posted at Scrivener.net.

Raymond presents Warren Buffett’s Single Most Important Piece Of Advice For Stock Market Investors posted at Money Blue Book.

The Whited Sepulchre presents All I Need To Know, I Learned At Auctions Part 1 posted at The Whited Sepulchre.

Jed Norwood presents Forex Trading The News | Tips and Tricks posted at Forex Strategy Secrets, saying, "This post helps you understand what the risks are when news about the economy comes out and affects the direction the market moves."

Shan Siddiqi presents Hillary doesn't need economists! posted at Globally Rational, saying, "Where is this country going if one of our major Presidential candidates publicly denounces the unanimous opinion of economists?"

Walter W. Fouse presents Avoid Large Actively Managed Mutual Funds posted at Best No Load Funds.

Logan Flatt, CFA presents Why Are Oil Prices So High? Gold Solves the Riddle. posted at PowerWealth.com.

Larry Russell presents The Financial Services Industry is Still the Largest S&P 500 Sector - Even after the Collapse of its Stock Values posted at THE SKILLED INVESTOR Blog.

Michael Bass presents Why Americans Can’t Afford Credit posted at Debt Prison, saying, "Pause for a second and think of the percentage that you feel best represents the amount of income you pay in taxes. Your real tax rate is 40%." And, Why Americans Can’t Escape Gasoline.

Wenchypoo presents This Just In: Seen on CNBC--Commodities Researcher Says It Only Gets Worse From Here posted at Wisdom From Wenchypoo's Mental Wastebasket.

Dorian Wales presents Spontaneous Observations on Commodity Prices - Will Prices Remain so High? posted at Personal Financier.

Sagar presents 6 Ways Greenspan Caused the Current Economic Crisis | Currency Trading.net posted at Currency Trading.net.

Lisa Spinelli presents Is Fair Trade Coffee About Profit, Politics or People? posted at Greener Pastures: Personal Finance.

KCLau presents Don’t be stupid! Keep paying. posted at KCLau's Money Tips.

Christopher Johnson presents Smart Personal Finances posted at christopheraaronjohnson.net.

Dollar Frugal presents Dollar Frugal » Blog Archive » Emergency Fund Etiquette posted at Dollar Frugal.

That concludes this edition. Submit your blog article to the next edition of American Economics Blog Carnival using our carnival submission form. The carnival is posted on the 1st and 15th of every month, with submissions due 2-3 days prior.

Submitters are encouraged to submit only their best articles relating to the American Economy and/or the impacts of globalization.

Related Posts:

American Economics Blog Carnival, May 1, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, April 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, April 1, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, March 15, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, March 1, 2008
American Economics Blog Carnival, Feb 15, 2008

Barack Obama on Economic Policy and Responsible Government

2008-05-13T14:31:00.008-04:00

If you missed this speech by Barack Obama, which he made at Cooper Union in New York City in March, it's worth watching. He explains his take on current economic policies, as well as the history behind how we got to this point. He also describes the role of responsible government in creating an environment in which economic prosperity can occur.

The economy is the #1 issue facing all of us during this election cycle, so please take the time to watch and listen to this video. Then, ask yourself, which candidate is really going to implement the changes needed to get the U.S. economy turned around.

We need stability and sustainable growth to return. Several issues need to be addressed, and the existing policies are not working. We need a change. Please take the time to get informed about the economy, and other important issues, prior to deciding your vote for president this fall.

No matter who you vote for, please remember to VOTE!

Related Posts:

The Energy Sector is a Mess - Obama's Position
When the Dollar was Good as Gold
Economics Can Be Funny