MB and Jason both mentioned an article that indicates that the mainstream media is catching on to the threat of a derivatives implosion: Derivatives the new 'ticking bomb' The only good news is that the number of new derivatives contracts has dropped dramatically since August of '07. But then again, that "good" news is indicative that the global economy has stalled and is about to crash and burn.
o o o
Eric recommended this commentary from England: Who knows there's a food crisis? The early signals are there, but the world seems to be sleepwalking towards disaster
o o o
Crude May Rise to $120 in Six Months, Taqa CEO Says
o o o
Rising metal costs may see Aussie coins change
o o o
In an e-mail, reader DAB asked about a recommended source for chimney brushes. We got ours from Lehmans.com. They have a good assortment of brushes--both round and rectangular. Should you circulate the brush with a chain or with rods? I definitely prefer rods, to reduce the time required for cleaning and to reduce the mess. Because the length of brush rod sections dictates high postage costs, I recommend getting rod sections at your local hardware store. How many rods? My suggestion is: Measure your chimney and get four extra feet of rod length than the chimney's height. This will give you plenty of extra "throw" length, thus allowing you to brush your chimney vigorously and thoroughly.
