Blog writers union

Some bloggers blog as a means to express themselves, helping others, actual reporting and investigations, or a means to supplemental income. The internet allows anybody with an opinion to express it to the world. A group of bloggers recently met to discuss the possibility and feasibility of forming a Union. They wish to qualify for insurance, set standards and regulation, and turn blogging into more of a profession. It is to be expected, with the presidential election upcoming, that bloggers feel they have a hand in the decision making of America. I believe this is what is driving this movement at this time. Most any message board contains links to blogs, people swear by their favorite bloggers, their work is considered law by many.

Anybody can post a blog, make it look real, and get famous for it. These are the type that need to be avoided. Anything written on-line needs to be verified as much as possible. Benefits of belonging to a coalition of bloggers would be more credibility, more exposure, press passes and the above mentioned insurance and possible more income.

A big downside, and one voiced by others as well is the fact that blogging currently allows people to express their view and opinion as well. Under union or coalition rules, they feel that they will become controlled, or not even allowed to voice certain viewpoints. Even though news reports claim that they are unbiased, most everybody has some bias to their writing. Even Fox news, claiming to be fair and unbiased, has a visible slant to most of their stories. For every blogger that thinks Bush is the greatest and reports his victories, there is a blogger that points out his weakness. Freedom of speech allows these viewpoints, in addition to the fact that there is no governing body forcing them to write with a specific slant. All viewpoints are considered and expressed through the blog empire now.

Some bloggers are very professional in their writings, others not as much, and still more that just write because they enjoy writing. Thousands of people daily log on and read their favorite blogs. A blog union will create a rift in the blogging community, and a sense of elitism could develop among those who are union, and those who are not.

Power Demand in the Tennessee Valley

The Tennessee valley is currently facing the highest temperatures of the year so far. Highs in the 90's, heat index expected to reach over 105, its not a comfortable place to be. Granted other places are hotter, but in Tennessee as in much of the southeast, the humidity is the deal breaker. Air so humid, so unmoving it takes your breath away at times.

The first part of the year was the driest in over 118 years. Due to this heat, hydro generation is down over 54% of normal, and the rivers, reservoirs and lakes are well below average. Hydro is TVA's cheapest form of generation, and having this cut in half may make them buy more expensive power from elsewhere.

It is expected that the current heat wave ( which is expected to last the next week or longer ) could possible task TVA's system. It is projected to exceed the record setting of 31,703 megawatts, set in July 2005. During that record setting, they provided power without a single interruption to clients. Will this year be any different? Will they be able to meet the demand with hydro down?

Currently to supply power, TVA uses Fossil Fuel plants ( 15,000 megawatts of capacity ), Nuclear ( 6,900 megawatts ), Hydro ( which varies based on water ) and Green power ( solar and wind). With water levels down, hardly any air moving for wind generation, TVA will have to rely on their other plants, and possibly buy more expensive power from other generation groups.

TVA has a good solid record, and there is no reason to believe they cannot handle this upcoming demand. However, everybody needs to do their part to conserve while they can. Don't water your yard, wash your car, or fill your pools during the heat of the day. Keep your thermostat above 71 degrees, keep your windows and doors shut, invest in a programmable thermostat, use energy efficient appliances and light bulbs, take showers not baths, and many other little things we can do to conserve energy.

Preview 2007 HOG Rally

Knoxville TN is going to be hosting the 2007 Club HOG downhome rally this year on August 24th and 25th at Chilhowee Park. This event will bring riders from all over the country to Knoxville, and includes many activities. Montgomery Gentry is scheduled to be there on their bikes as will many other bands. There will be stunt shows, demonstrations, and a preview of the 2008 HD. One of the big draws will be Saturday August the 25th in the Maryville shop. They are preparing to do a world record burnout. 100's of motorcycles lined up, smoking the tires at the same time. Registration is required and can be completed every Saturday from 1-4. The Kentucky Headhunters will be performing live after the burnout.

While in town, if bored of the activities, be sure and check out a few other local attractions. If night life and country music is your cup of tea, be sure and check out Cotton Eyed Joes in West Knoxville, conveniently located behind the West Knoxville Harley Davidson store. A ride through the mountains is a must do as well. All though it would be better later in the fall, it is still beautiful and majestic this time of year.

Also, if so inclined one should make the trip to the Dragon, a harrowing series of switchback curves that draws riders from all over the world. Not for the weak at heart. It used to be much better; however, Tennessee Highway patrol is attempting to make an effort to slow down the riders.

East Tennessee plays host to many motorcycle groups through out the year, most notably the Honda Hoot. The hospitality, easy access to mountains and lakes, and good food make East Tennessee a prime spot for such gatherings.