Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

Not Helpful: Tribune editorial page

We cut back on our Chicago Tribune subscription a couple of months ago, and I'm glad to save the money. Even more, though, I'm glad I get to avoid the incredibly poor logic it puts on its editorial page, including this gem from today's "All gassed up in the Senate." As an exercise to get blogging again, though, it will suffice.

History suggests that CAFE standards haven't done much to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil. CAFE standards were imposed 32 years ago, when the U.S. imported 35 percent of its oil. Since then, oil imports have nearly doubled. Higher fuel economy makes it cheaper to drive, which encourages Americans to drive more, not less. Higher gas prices, on the other hand, have an immediate pocketbook impact.

Now, perhaps it is politically dishonest to force car companies to increase fuel efficiency, rather than just taxing customers directly. But, the paragraph above has massive logic gaps that anyone taking the LSAT or GMAT could walk right through:

1) CAFE standards were introduced 32 years ago. Since then, oil imports have doubled. Can we think of any other causes for oil imports doubling? Say, the population increasing by 100 milion?

2) The editorial claims that forcing car companies to make more fuel-efficient cars would increase the sticker price on those cars. But, at the same time, "Higher fuel economy makes it cheaper to drive, which encourages Americans to drive more, not less." So which is it?

Friday, July 06, 2007

Helpful: Impeach Dick Cheney

The numbers say it's time...

Interesting: Don't Forget the Lyrics

Please watch Fox on Wed. July 11 at 9:30 Eastern and Thurs. July 12 at 8:30 Eastern to see my family sing karaoke with Wayne Brady! Way to go Lucas!

Wednesday, July 04, 2007

Interesting: Checking in

Well, it's halftime in 2007.

Just two classes and one project left, and I'll be done with my Masters in Urban Planning this December.

I'm 6 weeks into my internship with Debra Shore at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. It's been very interesting so far - I've met some great people and had a chance to study cutting edge environmental problems like pharmaceuticals in wastewater, combined sewer overflows, and other water issues.

My plantar fasciitis is getting better, although I won't be able to run for a few more weeks still. Stretch your calves!

Church stuff continues to be a real source of fun and intellectual challenge. What should a church do to remain relevant and important in an urban neighborhood?


So, whats next?

For the first time since 1999, I'll be looking full-time for a full-time job this summer. I am focusing my search in the following ways:

Organizations:
- Government or *well-funded* non-profit agencies that serve the public and improve quality of life
- Political campaigns for progressive Democratic candidates who care about urban issues
- Companies that solve important problems or reduce people's suffering, while not being evil

Positions:
- Strategy and Planning
- Management
- Training
- New Initiatives
- Business Development

Location:
- Within Chicago city limits

Wish me luck!
http://www.linkedin.com/in/mattkuzma

Sunday, July 01, 2007

Farmer Matt


DSCN3356.JPG
Originally uploaded by kuzmatt9
You can take the boy out of the country...