Net Neutrality

The whole idea that we should trust corporations to keep the Internet open for us is pretty naive. Whenever their interests are at stake, beware. Also notice what always is brought out first to support their argument: lost jobs. The jobs loss will happen, but not because of regulation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics,

"Employment in the telecommunications industry is expected to decline by 9 percent over the 2008–18 period, compared with 11 percent growth for all industries combined. Despite an increasing demand for wireless Internet, cable television, and mobile technologies, productivity gains will result in a reduced demand for workers. As telecommunications infrastructure becomes more reliable, for example, fewer workers will be needed to make repairs. Also, consolidation among organizations will lead to productivity growth across many occupational groups, as combined operations generally require fewer total workers."

Costa Ricans: Happiest People on Earth

A recent Gallop poll asked people to rate their happiness on a scale of 1 to 10. The results were as follows:
Costa Ricans average 8.5.
Denmark is next at 8.3
The United States ranks 20th at 7.4
and Togo and Tanzania bring up the caboose at 2.6.
More info about Costa Rica from the New York Times: "What sets Costa Rica apart is its remarkable decision in 1949 to dissolve its armed forces and invest instead in education. Increased schooling created a more stable society, less prone to the conflicts that have raged elsewhere in Central America. Education also boosted the economy, enabling the country to become a major exporter of computer chips and improving English-language skills so as to attract American eco-tourists. "
BTW: My husband and I are going there at the end of June!

EWG's New Sunscreen Rating Is Out for 2010

In case you are unaware of the number of dangerous chemicals in sunscreens, this is something you should read, especially if you have children. For the past year, I've been following the work of this group. They evaluate products and rate them based on their ingredients. Although I have a hard time dealing with the problems in our food supply (you have to eat), it is much easier to control the voluntary products we put on our bodies. To find out how your sunscreen rates, and which sunscreen is the best out there, go to http://www.ewg.org/2010sunscreen/best-beach-sport-sunscreens/