Yout Thoughts And Feedback Are Appreciated!

Another quarter has almost passed.  When we started out together, it was hot, dry and summer was in full swing. Now, there’s no doubt that fall is just around the corner. It’s been a pleasure getting to know all of you this quarter and I hope that you stay in touch, continue to post on the blog whenever you want, and most importantly vote in the upcoming election.

Tomorrow in the 11^th anniversary of the September 11^th attacks.  I hope that we all remember the unity that we felt that day – and that we take the time to call a loved one, be there for a friend, or help a stranger. Our country grows stronger when we stand united, not divided.

With that being said, my final question to you is, “What did you like or dislike about the class?  What could I do to make the class better?”  Answers are due no later than Sunday, September 16^th, 2012. For those of you who lost loved ones in the September 11^th attacks – my heart and prayers go out to you.  For those of you serving in our armed forces – thank you.  You are truly American heroes.  For those of you who are graduating this quarter – congratulations!  Your hard work has finally paid off.  To everyone else – may you enjoy a nice fall break.

Imported From Detroit

Next week, I'll be traveling to Detroit for work.  It may sound weird to some, but I love visiting Detroit. Yes, I know, Detroit isn’t usually on people’s list of top vacation spots, but I love it all the same. I love driving across the bridges, eating in Greek town, visiting the Museum of Modern Art and hanging out at Belle Island. Whether you call it the “Motor City,” “Motown,” or just the “D,” there’s no doubt that Detroit is a classic American city full of culture, diversity and fun.

Which makes it all the more sad to realize that no city in the country has been harder hit by the recession than Detroit. Home to the top three American automakers, Ford, Chrysler and General Motors, Detroit was once seen as a thriving metropolis where people could go to find good jobs. Today, Detroit’s official unemployment rate is slightly below 30% and some figures quote it actually closer to 50%. To put that in perspective; the national unemployment rate is 8.3%. American car companies, that once dominated the auto industry, now are often seen as having inferior quality and reliability compared to their Japanese counterparts.

Some say American car companies are struggling because of their focus on SUV’s. When gas prices started to rise, Americans began looking for smaller, compact cars, which are often foreign. Others say American companies missed the boat when it came to developing green cars with better emissions. We can no longer sell most American cars abroad, because we don’t meet the rest of the world’s fuel efficiency standards. Finally, some say American car companies just mis-managed their funds, giving corporate executives large bonuses, while ignoring their plants, technology and workers.

So my question to you this week is, “What do you think of American cars? Are they inferior to foreign ones? What do you think can be done to strengthen the American auto industry?” You must answer all questions to earn full credit. Answers are due no later than Sunday, September 9th, 2012.