I must admit I did not expect that Iran and Syria would accept the recent Israeli/Hezbollah cease-fire as a stalemate. I figured they would be one to gloat in favor of their Hezbollah brethren. That being said, I think even they are going a bit too far with their recent comments.
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad claims the victory was "God's Promise." Syrian "President" Bashar Assad claimed Israel was "defeated" by the Hezbollah fighters. Great that those lads think that their Hezbollah boys stole the show, but let's remember a couple of things.
First off Israel walked to the Leitani River and probably could have gone all the way to the northern border of the country. All that stopped them was their willingness to heed the international community's call for them to stop.
Second, despite some missteps, they were regimented in avoiding civilian casualties. Unlike Hezbollah, who lobbed bombs without any regard for collateral damange, the Israelis did what they could to avoid it. In cases where it did happen (note that they would actually call ahead and warn that the bombs were coming), it was due to the fact that ordinary citizens were human shields protecting Hezbollah rockets.
The reason why Syria and Iran need to be careful about gloating is that they run the risk of ticking off the Israelis to the point where they damn the consequences and start to overrun the Middle East. In the past if there's one thing we know it's that the Israelis don't lose. Everytime a neighbor tries to take their land they respond by whipping them. Just ask Jordan if they'd like the West Bank back or Syria if they want the Golan Heights. In the end it might behoove both Syria and Iran to ease off a little a bit on the gloating.
Hawk's View: We're in the 54th year of the Israel Vs. The Rest of the Middle East. History says Israel is the strongest nation against its enemies. They are clearly tired of fighting but are also at the end of their rope in dealing with all the nonsense they face around them. The view here is the cease-fire won't last and the next move is Israel not only going back into Lebanaon but going after Syria as well. Unfortunately this will get worse before it even looks to get better.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Those Whiny Northeasterners...
Why is it every time the Northeastern part of the US is faced with any type of weather emergency, the rest of us must be affected as well.
In case you were out of the country this past weekend, the news networks were flooded with reports of "The Great Nor'Easter" or some other lame headline. Yes, believe it or else, the Northeast actually receiving "snow" or some type of snow byproduct. As a result this must be treated as a top news story. I'm assuming the amount of hype wrought from the news agencies meant a run on canned goods and double AA batteries at the local A&P (assuming these folks were brave enough to venture outside).
I've never been a believer or a fan in a so-called "east coast bias" in the media. That's always been a bit of a sham to me. But all that goes out the window when the subject is the weather. For some reason, the weather turns normal mild mannered individuals in stark raving freaks. This is exacerbated by the fact that these individuals work for news organizations and all of a sudden become "imbedded" in the story. Lame.
At the end of the day, it says less about those in the Northeast that they feel this attention is warranted over a Winter storm. For a region that prides itself in being tough, this reaction by its citizens (and the news agencies) is tired and ridiculous. Get over yourselves.
In case you were out of the country this past weekend, the news networks were flooded with reports of "The Great Nor'Easter" or some other lame headline. Yes, believe it or else, the Northeast actually receiving "snow" or some type of snow byproduct. As a result this must be treated as a top news story. I'm assuming the amount of hype wrought from the news agencies meant a run on canned goods and double AA batteries at the local A&P (assuming these folks were brave enough to venture outside).
I've never been a believer or a fan in a so-called "east coast bias" in the media. That's always been a bit of a sham to me. But all that goes out the window when the subject is the weather. For some reason, the weather turns normal mild mannered individuals in stark raving freaks. This is exacerbated by the fact that these individuals work for news organizations and all of a sudden become "imbedded" in the story. Lame.
At the end of the day, it says less about those in the Northeast that they feel this attention is warranted over a Winter storm. For a region that prides itself in being tough, this reaction by its citizens (and the news agencies) is tired and ridiculous. Get over yourselves.
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Can Ford Find Its Way Forward
On Monday, Ford announced sweeping changes to its business model. Dubbed "Black Monday" by the UAW Ford cut wide and deep. They axed 14 plants and 25K workers and 4K "white collar" workers from the payroll. Bill Ford Jr. (current Ford Scion) made the case in plain English to all who were listening: the old Ford was broken and he was going to fix it. No longer would Ford build cars based on capacity availability, it would build cars based on what the customer wanted. What a novel concept.
One can hardly blame Ford for making the changes. North American operations lost over $l.4 Billion last year alone. The company's cost structure has spiraled out of control and is only getting worse. Onerous contracts with the UAW (agreed to by previous Ford managment I might add) have handcuffed the company's ability to be nimble in the everchanging auto market. In the end it was "rip the bandage off" time at Ford and Bill was just the guy to do the pullin'.
So where does this leave Ford now? The rank and file response to Ford's plan is positive but of course it would be when a company with a bloated cost structure hacks off a significant chunk of SG&A. However, a company cannot cut its way to success. Even Jr. mentioned that in his speech to the press.
The bottomline is Ford is losing for the same reasons any company loses in a marketplace: complacency. Ford's problems stem from poor designs and hooking its wagon to SUVs and trucks. They made no attempt to manage their risk against rising gasoline prices. And, most importantly, they stopped listening to their customers.
Can they rebound? Of course they can. And, most importantly, management will have time to do so. The Ford family controls this company and Bill and his cronies are going nowhere. They can ride this long term plan out and not worry at all about losing his job. In effect, if Ford is the right guy to turn around the company (and many feel he is) he will get it done.
Hawk's View: Personally, I'm not a Ford fan. I've never liked their designs and found their cars to be somewhat staid (the Mustang notwithstanding). However, I actually think Ford Jr. can turn it around. As stated before, unlike GM he's the man in charge and is going to be there as long as he wants. This might be bad if Ford Jr. was a lightweight but I don't think he is. As a result, The Hawk thinks Bill Ford's Way Forward Plan will rebound the company and probably make great granddad proud.
Author's Note: If interested in reading more about the auto industry, click on the link in the title of this article. It will take you to Forbes.com and to Jerry Flint. Mr. Flint has been covering the auto industry since the Model T (OK, not really but close). His contacts and insight are second to none. Enjoy.
One can hardly blame Ford for making the changes. North American operations lost over $l.4 Billion last year alone. The company's cost structure has spiraled out of control and is only getting worse. Onerous contracts with the UAW (agreed to by previous Ford managment I might add) have handcuffed the company's ability to be nimble in the everchanging auto market. In the end it was "rip the bandage off" time at Ford and Bill was just the guy to do the pullin'.
So where does this leave Ford now? The rank and file response to Ford's plan is positive but of course it would be when a company with a bloated cost structure hacks off a significant chunk of SG&A. However, a company cannot cut its way to success. Even Jr. mentioned that in his speech to the press.
The bottomline is Ford is losing for the same reasons any company loses in a marketplace: complacency. Ford's problems stem from poor designs and hooking its wagon to SUVs and trucks. They made no attempt to manage their risk against rising gasoline prices. And, most importantly, they stopped listening to their customers.
Can they rebound? Of course they can. And, most importantly, management will have time to do so. The Ford family controls this company and Bill and his cronies are going nowhere. They can ride this long term plan out and not worry at all about losing his job. In effect, if Ford is the right guy to turn around the company (and many feel he is) he will get it done.
Hawk's View: Personally, I'm not a Ford fan. I've never liked their designs and found their cars to be somewhat staid (the Mustang notwithstanding). However, I actually think Ford Jr. can turn it around. As stated before, unlike GM he's the man in charge and is going to be there as long as he wants. This might be bad if Ford Jr. was a lightweight but I don't think he is. As a result, The Hawk thinks Bill Ford's Way Forward Plan will rebound the company and probably make great granddad proud.
Author's Note: If interested in reading more about the auto industry, click on the link in the title of this article. It will take you to Forbes.com and to Jerry Flint. Mr. Flint has been covering the auto industry since the Model T (OK, not really but close). His contacts and insight are second to none. Enjoy.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
GM Gets More Free Advice
Yesterday, Jerry York (Kirk Kerkorian's bobo), weighed in on GM's woes during the Detroit Auto Show. Specifically he highlighted GM's needs to cut their dividend in half, slice executive pay and dump Hummer and Volvo.
According to Mr. York this is only the beginning of what GM needs to do but it would be a good start. And, he coyly promised that Mr. Kerkorian would consider purchasing 24MM GM share to help drive up the price and instill investor confidence.
Kerkorian has been a thorn in GM's side since he ponied up for millions of shares this past Summer. Maybe because he's approaching his 300th birthday (I kid, he's actually 89) or maybe it is because he wants to ruin a second member of the Big 3 (read, Taken for a Ride, the tome that traced Chrysler's spin out into the arms of Daimler Benz, aided by Kerkorian). Regardless, Kerkorian has a motive. And a good one at that, he wants to see the shares rise because he owns a boatload of them. But his move to suggest cutting the dividend is pure genius. By doing this he is putting himself out there that the biggest GM shareholder would rather sacrifice the sureness of a dividend for the potential of long term benefit (not bad for an 89 year old). The questions is will GM bite and will it help?
Hawk's View: Tough spot for Ric Waggoner and frieds. They could use a share boost. However, if they follow any of Kerkorian's public comments they could be seen as even more weak than they already appear. Cutting the dividend in half would no doubt lead to a sell off from angry shareholders who rely on the dividend for income. Mr. Kerkorian's share purchase may do little to offset the sell off. In the end, look for GM to continue with their own plan to right the ship and for this soap opera with Kerkorian to continue.
According to Mr. York this is only the beginning of what GM needs to do but it would be a good start. And, he coyly promised that Mr. Kerkorian would consider purchasing 24MM GM share to help drive up the price and instill investor confidence.
Kerkorian has been a thorn in GM's side since he ponied up for millions of shares this past Summer. Maybe because he's approaching his 300th birthday (I kid, he's actually 89) or maybe it is because he wants to ruin a second member of the Big 3 (read, Taken for a Ride, the tome that traced Chrysler's spin out into the arms of Daimler Benz, aided by Kerkorian). Regardless, Kerkorian has a motive. And a good one at that, he wants to see the shares rise because he owns a boatload of them. But his move to suggest cutting the dividend is pure genius. By doing this he is putting himself out there that the biggest GM shareholder would rather sacrifice the sureness of a dividend for the potential of long term benefit (not bad for an 89 year old). The questions is will GM bite and will it help?
Hawk's View: Tough spot for Ric Waggoner and frieds. They could use a share boost. However, if they follow any of Kerkorian's public comments they could be seen as even more weak than they already appear. Cutting the dividend in half would no doubt lead to a sell off from angry shareholders who rely on the dividend for income. Mr. Kerkorian's share purchase may do little to offset the sell off. In the end, look for GM to continue with their own plan to right the ship and for this soap opera with Kerkorian to continue.
Monday, January 02, 2006
Putin Gasses the Euros
Russian "elected" leader Vladimir Putin looks harmless enough. He's got a geeky veneer about him but if you look closer you'll see that it is all a ruse. Underneath is the steely way of a former KGB agent turned leader. He's the kind of guy you'd pick a fight with to impress a gal and then he would in turn mop the floor with your head.
Which is why this whole issue around the natural gas feud with Ukraine is scary for the residents of Europe. See Europe get a significant amount of gas from Russia. 90% of which flows through a pipeline in Ukraine. Now that Vlad has cut off the pipeline due to a price dispute, the Euros may have to storm the local Ikea for various sensible designed wood products to burn during the dog days of winter.
Up until now Russia's reputation as an energy supplier was quite good. But that has all changed. First off, Putin clearly has a goal of consolidating power to the point where elections are shams and he is in effect the new Czar of all the Russias. This move with the pipeline only makes the trembling Euros even more uncomfortable (and cold) because this may only be the beginning. Will Putin seek to put Russia back in the Superpower category with the US (with China and India not far behind)? If so, Putin will continue to rule over the world's largest country with an iron fist. He will look to make more deals with "rogue states" (Russia is supplying Iran with all the necessary materials to get their nuclear weapons system online). Never mind the fact Russia sits on a vast amount of natural resources that could tip the global market in their favor.
Hawk's View: I have no illusions that Putin has crowned himself Czar and will continue to make his mark on the world stage. He's made it clear that Ukraine should pay higher prices (in line with what the Euros are charged) versus other former Soviet states, because of the advancement of their economy. That would be correct if that were truly the case. It's not. Putin is punishing the Ukraine people for last year's Orange Revolution when his pick to run the country was beaten out in an election. In the end, Putin will likely make a quick ending to this mess because he has made his point. The Russians are back and we want our seat at the table opposite the US.
Which is why this whole issue around the natural gas feud with Ukraine is scary for the residents of Europe. See Europe get a significant amount of gas from Russia. 90% of which flows through a pipeline in Ukraine. Now that Vlad has cut off the pipeline due to a price dispute, the Euros may have to storm the local Ikea for various sensible designed wood products to burn during the dog days of winter.
Up until now Russia's reputation as an energy supplier was quite good. But that has all changed. First off, Putin clearly has a goal of consolidating power to the point where elections are shams and he is in effect the new Czar of all the Russias. This move with the pipeline only makes the trembling Euros even more uncomfortable (and cold) because this may only be the beginning. Will Putin seek to put Russia back in the Superpower category with the US (with China and India not far behind)? If so, Putin will continue to rule over the world's largest country with an iron fist. He will look to make more deals with "rogue states" (Russia is supplying Iran with all the necessary materials to get their nuclear weapons system online). Never mind the fact Russia sits on a vast amount of natural resources that could tip the global market in their favor.
Hawk's View: I have no illusions that Putin has crowned himself Czar and will continue to make his mark on the world stage. He's made it clear that Ukraine should pay higher prices (in line with what the Euros are charged) versus other former Soviet states, because of the advancement of their economy. That would be correct if that were truly the case. It's not. Putin is punishing the Ukraine people for last year's Orange Revolution when his pick to run the country was beaten out in an election. In the end, Putin will likely make a quick ending to this mess because he has made his point. The Russians are back and we want our seat at the table opposite the US.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
AT&T's Next Move?
Apparently, buying everything they can get their hands on over the past few years has not deterred AT&T (formerly SBC, formerly Southwester Bell, formerly, well, AT&T). Cnn.com reports a deal may be in the works for Echostar Communications (AKA Dish Network).
It is hard to believe that Echostar Chairman Charlie Ergen would want to sell out fully. He's too competitive, but a deal where retains control over the operations could become palatable as he attempts to take Dish to the next competitive arena: High Definition TV service.
The upside of this for AT&T is that they would be in the video business from day one and would not have to roll out an expensive fiber optic service as other telcos (Verizon, BellSouth) are planning. Also, AT&T and Dish have been working together for a couple of years selling bundled services.
The downside of the deal is AT&T is still swallowing two huge acquisitions and the idea of taking on another may make investors a little queezy. Never underestimate Chairman Edward Whitacre's zeal for making a deal and with The Chairman retiring in two years he may well want to make one big huge score before riding off to the nearest Texas Tech University football game (he's a big alum and, funny, Tech's stadium is named Jones AT&T Stadium).
Hawk's View: If AT&T wants to make another acquisition the logical one is to by BellSouth. BellSouth owns 40% of Cingular (with AT&T owning the other 60%). Buying BellSouth would not only give Whitacre's gang wider distribution but it would give them full control over Cingular. However, that acquisition still does not get AT&T in the TV game. In the end the question is whether or not Whitacre wants his final score to be wireless or TV. Only he knows but we are soon to find out.
It is hard to believe that Echostar Chairman Charlie Ergen would want to sell out fully. He's too competitive, but a deal where retains control over the operations could become palatable as he attempts to take Dish to the next competitive arena: High Definition TV service.
The upside of this for AT&T is that they would be in the video business from day one and would not have to roll out an expensive fiber optic service as other telcos (Verizon, BellSouth) are planning. Also, AT&T and Dish have been working together for a couple of years selling bundled services.
The downside of the deal is AT&T is still swallowing two huge acquisitions and the idea of taking on another may make investors a little queezy. Never underestimate Chairman Edward Whitacre's zeal for making a deal and with The Chairman retiring in two years he may well want to make one big huge score before riding off to the nearest Texas Tech University football game (he's a big alum and, funny, Tech's stadium is named Jones AT&T Stadium).
Hawk's View: If AT&T wants to make another acquisition the logical one is to by BellSouth. BellSouth owns 40% of Cingular (with AT&T owning the other 60%). Buying BellSouth would not only give Whitacre's gang wider distribution but it would give them full control over Cingular. However, that acquisition still does not get AT&T in the TV game. In the end the question is whether or not Whitacre wants his final score to be wireless or TV. Only he knows but we are soon to find out.
Saturday, December 31, 2005
2005: And the winners are...
It was my intention to write a year in review type article but I tabled that idea. There is only one year in review you all should read and that is the one written by Dave Barry. Check out the link at the bottom of the page and do read it. Very funny and very well done as always.
I decided instead to pass out awards for the top performers in 2005. Some are funny, some are sad and some might seem weird but here goes. Drumroll please...
The Civic Duty Award - Goes to the jury on the Michael Jackson trial. Apparently these 12 rubes were not present on this planet during the months the Jackson trial took place. If they were they would have known that "Jacko" was guilty. Alas, they followed the leadership of such other fine California juries (OJ Simpson, the Menendez Brothers, etc) and let him Moonwalk all the way to Bharain (his new home).
Medal of Valor Award - Tie between New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin, Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco and FEMA Director Mike Brown. These three sad individuals botched, rebotched and then botched again the entire mess that ensued before, during and after Hurricane Katrina. All are equally culpable yet each conveniently blames the other while stating they were the "only ones showing leadership." All three should be forced to sweep the streets of New Orleans during Mardi Gras and Southern Decadence.
Corporate Leadership Award - Goes to none other than the Dolan family. This first family of New York media had an out and out feud between father and son over a failed satellite service called VOOM. The old man and son rattled sabers at each other before finally agreeing (begrudginly) to close VOOM and sell the assets. All the while the company's stock took a massive tumble.
The Please Make It Stop Award - Goes to Fox News correspondents Greta Van Susteren and Geraldo Rivera. Geraldo for the Terri Schiavo case and Greta for the Natalee Holloway case. This fine news channel has been co-opted by these two schmos and they need to be outsourced somewhere where no one we'll watch them. Like MSNBC.
The Big Whiner Award - Goes to all the Manchester United fans who claimed Man U would be "ruined" by the purchase of the club by American Malcom Glazer. These weenies claimed the famed club would lose their fan base and there would be repercussion of epic proportions. The result: Man U still sells out and while they are running 5th in the Premiership, they are making money and playing in front of all those rabid fans who vowed never to show up again.
The Boy Did We Get Fleeced Award - Goes to all the Hollywood studios for the pointless trash they greenlighted and that no one went to see. With few exceptions, everything Tinseltown put out landed at the box office with a loud thud. Guys, the key to making good movies is actually "writing a script that's interesting." I know that flies in the face of the new way to do movies which is to blow up lots of stuff and have minimal dialogue but give it a try. You may be surprised.
The Please Pay Attention to Me Award - Goes to North Korean dictator and cartoon looking freak, Kim Jong-Il. Kim, desperately trying to get the attention of anyone, continues to to play nuclear poker with the world. His motive appears to be his need for people to take his phone calls because his "country" doesn't appear to be gaining any additional support nor are they striking any more fear into the world. Perhaps in 2006 Kim will attempt to strike a deal that actually gets food to all those people living around him.
The I Cannot Tell a Lie Award - Goest to baseball "legend", Viagra pitchmen and all around smarmy character Rafael Palmeiro. Shortly after appearing before Congress and emphatically denying taking steriods, Raffy fails a drug test for, wait for it, steroids. Strong work.
The Lion in Winter Award - Goes to General Motors. The titan of the auto industry found 2005 to be a hard year. From poor sales, dealers in revolt, rising health care costs and 217 year old Kirk Kerkorian, GM faces a hard reality and the outcome could be very ugly. The stock is in the tank and their bonds are trading at junk status. Everything from selling off parts of GMAC to filing for bankruptcy is on the table for 2006. Hopefully the venerable car company will find traction very soon.
That's it for 2005. The Hawk has enjoyed his blogging so far and looks forward to more fun and nonsense in 2006. Hope you'll stop by from time to time.
Hawk...
The Year in Review
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/entertainment/13511044.htm
I decided instead to pass out awards for the top performers in 2005. Some are funny, some are sad and some might seem weird but here goes. Drumroll please...
The Civic Duty Award - Goes to the jury on the Michael Jackson trial. Apparently these 12 rubes were not present on this planet during the months the Jackson trial took place. If they were they would have known that "Jacko" was guilty. Alas, they followed the leadership of such other fine California juries (OJ Simpson, the Menendez Brothers, etc) and let him Moonwalk all the way to Bharain (his new home).
Medal of Valor Award - Tie between New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin, Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco and FEMA Director Mike Brown. These three sad individuals botched, rebotched and then botched again the entire mess that ensued before, during and after Hurricane Katrina. All are equally culpable yet each conveniently blames the other while stating they were the "only ones showing leadership." All three should be forced to sweep the streets of New Orleans during Mardi Gras and Southern Decadence.
Corporate Leadership Award - Goes to none other than the Dolan family. This first family of New York media had an out and out feud between father and son over a failed satellite service called VOOM. The old man and son rattled sabers at each other before finally agreeing (begrudginly) to close VOOM and sell the assets. All the while the company's stock took a massive tumble.
The Please Make It Stop Award - Goes to Fox News correspondents Greta Van Susteren and Geraldo Rivera. Geraldo for the Terri Schiavo case and Greta for the Natalee Holloway case. This fine news channel has been co-opted by these two schmos and they need to be outsourced somewhere where no one we'll watch them. Like MSNBC.
The Big Whiner Award - Goes to all the Manchester United fans who claimed Man U would be "ruined" by the purchase of the club by American Malcom Glazer. These weenies claimed the famed club would lose their fan base and there would be repercussion of epic proportions. The result: Man U still sells out and while they are running 5th in the Premiership, they are making money and playing in front of all those rabid fans who vowed never to show up again.
The Boy Did We Get Fleeced Award - Goes to all the Hollywood studios for the pointless trash they greenlighted and that no one went to see. With few exceptions, everything Tinseltown put out landed at the box office with a loud thud. Guys, the key to making good movies is actually "writing a script that's interesting." I know that flies in the face of the new way to do movies which is to blow up lots of stuff and have minimal dialogue but give it a try. You may be surprised.
The Please Pay Attention to Me Award - Goes to North Korean dictator and cartoon looking freak, Kim Jong-Il. Kim, desperately trying to get the attention of anyone, continues to to play nuclear poker with the world. His motive appears to be his need for people to take his phone calls because his "country" doesn't appear to be gaining any additional support nor are they striking any more fear into the world. Perhaps in 2006 Kim will attempt to strike a deal that actually gets food to all those people living around him.
The I Cannot Tell a Lie Award - Goest to baseball "legend", Viagra pitchmen and all around smarmy character Rafael Palmeiro. Shortly after appearing before Congress and emphatically denying taking steriods, Raffy fails a drug test for, wait for it, steroids. Strong work.
The Lion in Winter Award - Goes to General Motors. The titan of the auto industry found 2005 to be a hard year. From poor sales, dealers in revolt, rising health care costs and 217 year old Kirk Kerkorian, GM faces a hard reality and the outcome could be very ugly. The stock is in the tank and their bonds are trading at junk status. Everything from selling off parts of GMAC to filing for bankruptcy is on the table for 2006. Hopefully the venerable car company will find traction very soon.
That's it for 2005. The Hawk has enjoyed his blogging so far and looks forward to more fun and nonsense in 2006. Hope you'll stop by from time to time.
Hawk...
The Year in Review
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/entertainment/13511044.htm
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Should California Save Tookie?
On Tuesday the state of California will likely carry out its most controversial execution since the reinstatement of the death penalty in the early 1970's. The case involves Stanley "Tookie" Williams. Mr. Williams is on "The Row" for his involvement in 4 homicides in 1979. In addition Mr. Williams was the co-founder of The Crips street gang, which still exists today.
Mr. Williams case is a cause celebre for many individuals. Death penatly opponents to Hollywood celebrities have lined up and spoke up on his behalf, demanding he be granted clemency.
The rationale for this is based on the fact that Williams has turned his life around in prison. In his 24 years in prison, Williams has gone from a gang founder to an outspoken opponent of gangs and violence. Along the way he has written several children's books and been nominated for the Nobel Prize 6 times (5 for peace and one for literature).
To be fair the main arugment Wiliams supporters have is the above, but upon further review, those points are tad more hollow than they seem...
Nobel Prize Nominations: While The Hawk is still seeking his elusive first Nobel Prize nomination for this weblog, it should be pointed out that being nominated for a Nobel is not as special as it is cracked up to be. First off, anyone can be nominated. Secondly, nominations are never released by the Nobel committee. Finally, Mohandis Gahndi, Martin Luther King and Desmond Tutu all won the Prize but Adolf Hitler, Joseph Stalin and Benito Mussolini were all in the running for one as well.
Writing Children's Books: It's nice that he has a hobby but writing children's books does not mean that one should get total redemption from one's past crimes.
Speaking Out Against Violence: One would hope as Mr. Williams got older he would speak out against the violence that got him on "The Row" in the first place. That is the benefit of getting older, you tend to get wiser and more mature.
He's Sorry For His Crimes: Mr. Williams still proclaims his innocence through all of this despite 16 years of failed appeals. At the end of the day, he doesn't want clemency he wants out of prison. While The Hawk does not think that a man should cop to a crime he did not commit, it is not a stretch that a street gang founder, high on PCP could in fact commit such crimes. Again, no evidence (DNA or witness) has come up to suggest Mr. Williams is innocent. It was his gun who killed those people and that we know for certain.
Hawk's View: In the end, Mr. Williams, like everyone on death row, should be granted clemency because The Hawk does not believe in the death penalty. Not because I think the prisoners deserve better but for the exact opposite. The death penalty turns madmen and monsters into martyrs and those folks simply do not deserve anyone's time. Lock them up and throw away the key. They may be alive but they are not living, they are existing in a metal cage to think of all of their past misdeeds. That's the toughest punishment of all. Along the way if some do reform, good for them, but they still have to live with the fact that they will spend the rest of their days irrelevant behind bars waiting for their day to come. That's a long time to live with the shame of crime.
Note: Please read the link above from the Washington Post's Eugene Robinson. Very interesting.
Mr. Williams case is a cause celebre for many individuals. Death penatly opponents to Hollywood celebrities have lined up and spoke up on his behalf, demanding he be granted clemency.
The rationale for this is based on the fact that Williams has turned his life around in prison. In his 24 years in prison, Williams has gone from a gang founder to an outspoken opponent of gangs and violence. Along the way he has written several children's books and been nominated for the Nobel Prize 6 times (5 for peace and one for literature).
To be fair the main arugment Wiliams supporters have is the above, but upon further review, those points are tad more hollow than they seem...
Nobel Prize Nominations: While The Hawk is still seeking his elusive first Nobel Prize nomination for this weblog, it should be pointed out that being nominated for a Nobel is not as special as it is cracked up to be. First off, anyone can be nominated. Secondly, nominations are never released by the Nobel committee. Finally, Mohandis Gahndi, Martin Luther King and Desmond Tutu all won the Prize but Adolf Hitler, Joseph Stalin and Benito Mussolini were all in the running for one as well.
Writing Children's Books: It's nice that he has a hobby but writing children's books does not mean that one should get total redemption from one's past crimes.
Speaking Out Against Violence: One would hope as Mr. Williams got older he would speak out against the violence that got him on "The Row" in the first place. That is the benefit of getting older, you tend to get wiser and more mature.
He's Sorry For His Crimes: Mr. Williams still proclaims his innocence through all of this despite 16 years of failed appeals. At the end of the day, he doesn't want clemency he wants out of prison. While The Hawk does not think that a man should cop to a crime he did not commit, it is not a stretch that a street gang founder, high on PCP could in fact commit such crimes. Again, no evidence (DNA or witness) has come up to suggest Mr. Williams is innocent. It was his gun who killed those people and that we know for certain.
Hawk's View: In the end, Mr. Williams, like everyone on death row, should be granted clemency because The Hawk does not believe in the death penalty. Not because I think the prisoners deserve better but for the exact opposite. The death penalty turns madmen and monsters into martyrs and those folks simply do not deserve anyone's time. Lock them up and throw away the key. They may be alive but they are not living, they are existing in a metal cage to think of all of their past misdeeds. That's the toughest punishment of all. Along the way if some do reform, good for them, but they still have to live with the fact that they will spend the rest of their days irrelevant behind bars waiting for their day to come. That's a long time to live with the shame of crime.
Note: Please read the link above from the Washington Post's Eugene Robinson. Very interesting.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Time Warner's Icahn Problem
In the Spring I posted a couple of stories regarding blowhard investor Carl Icahn and his target at the time (Blockbuster). The first dealt with Icahn being hung up on during a web conference for all the world to hear. The second dealt with heavy handed approach CEO John Antiocco was taking when dealing with Icahn. At the time "Uncle" Carl (as he likes to be known, very man of the people) was lodging a complaint that Blockbuster was not acting in the best interest of the shareholders. Icahn got what he wanted (board seats) and has rest assured made life miserable for Mr. Antiocco since he and his band merry investors ascended onto the board.
Now Icahn has moved on to a bigger target. None other than Time Warner (formerly AOL Time Warner, formerly Time Inc and Warner Brothers, formerly Turner Broadcasting and...well you get the picture). Icahn has put TW CEO Richard Parsons on notice: spin-off the entire cable division, increase the dividend and get rid of AOL or else...
The "or else" in that statement means that if Carl doesn't exact his pound of greenmail that he'll pull the same thing on TW that he pulled with Blockbuster. No doubt making Mr. Parsons life equally miserable as he did for Mr. Antiocco.
Icahn's M.0. is veiled in "unlocking shareholder value." But in essence what he does is take a big stake and then force companies to pay him off in the short term via dividends or buybacks. If he doesn't get what he wants he takes his fight public and drags the company in question out into a war.
The problem is Icahn's moves generally make company's worse off because they are forced to abandon long-term strategies or worse yet put them in a poor negotiating position (E.G., it'll be tough for Parsons and crew to negotiate a "fair" AOL deal if even I know that they are being pushed hard to sell it).
However, Mr. Parsons should not be underestimated. Underneath that sweet veneer is a man who knows how to negotiate and lead in times of peril. It is he who pared down TW's debt, unwound the difficult cable partnership with Comcast and sold the music business for a tidy profit. He can handle Icahn if the board backs him up. The question is of course, will they?
Hawk's View: This is a bit of a cage match but I like it to end in a draw with Icahn getting a nice fat check to go bother some other media company (are you paying attention Viacom?). Look for buybacks to go up and for AOL to get sold off (Microsoft is the one). However, don't expect Parsons to give in when it comes to spinning off the entire cable operation. Parsons knows that business is a long term strategic play and giving it all up now will not nearly bring them enough money for the leverage they will lose. Look for a portion of the cable business to be spun off by late Summer with TW still holding a majority position. And look for Icahn to be stalking some other company by then.
Now Icahn has moved on to a bigger target. None other than Time Warner (formerly AOL Time Warner, formerly Time Inc and Warner Brothers, formerly Turner Broadcasting and...well you get the picture). Icahn has put TW CEO Richard Parsons on notice: spin-off the entire cable division, increase the dividend and get rid of AOL or else...
The "or else" in that statement means that if Carl doesn't exact his pound of greenmail that he'll pull the same thing on TW that he pulled with Blockbuster. No doubt making Mr. Parsons life equally miserable as he did for Mr. Antiocco.
Icahn's M.0. is veiled in "unlocking shareholder value." But in essence what he does is take a big stake and then force companies to pay him off in the short term via dividends or buybacks. If he doesn't get what he wants he takes his fight public and drags the company in question out into a war.
The problem is Icahn's moves generally make company's worse off because they are forced to abandon long-term strategies or worse yet put them in a poor negotiating position (E.G., it'll be tough for Parsons and crew to negotiate a "fair" AOL deal if even I know that they are being pushed hard to sell it).
However, Mr. Parsons should not be underestimated. Underneath that sweet veneer is a man who knows how to negotiate and lead in times of peril. It is he who pared down TW's debt, unwound the difficult cable partnership with Comcast and sold the music business for a tidy profit. He can handle Icahn if the board backs him up. The question is of course, will they?
Hawk's View: This is a bit of a cage match but I like it to end in a draw with Icahn getting a nice fat check to go bother some other media company (are you paying attention Viacom?). Look for buybacks to go up and for AOL to get sold off (Microsoft is the one). However, don't expect Parsons to give in when it comes to spinning off the entire cable operation. Parsons knows that business is a long term strategic play and giving it all up now will not nearly bring them enough money for the leverage they will lose. Look for a portion of the cable business to be spun off by late Summer with TW still holding a majority position. And look for Icahn to be stalking some other company by then.
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
We Don't Need a Fence
I can't believe a guy of my political leanings is writing this but, I'll take my chances.
Recently there has been a movement afoot to build a fence from the Pacific Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico along the US/Mexican border. The fence movement is spurned by many groups who are tired of the millions of people streaming over the border on a daily basis.
The idea comes from an experiment taking place in San Diego where an 18 mile fence was built. The results were positive. Illegal crossings were way down. As a result the idea blossomed to take the fence across the country (see above for diagram)
To be fair the "fence people" are not suggesting we close our border to people here to work. They have a "guest worker" program that would allow individuals to be here legally and enjoy the protection of being a citizen of the US. What they are trying to solve is those who do not work or those of a criminal element (drug dealers, arms smugglers, etc) and of the terrorist element. To be sure national security is the main drum they are banging.
They are right that the fence would make it easier for our border patrol and would be cheaper in the long run than adding more and more people to monitor the border.
But building a fence is not what we do in America. Yes we have an illegal immigrant issues here in the US but the fence won't stop it. The fence will make it harder and more dangerous but it will not stop the problem.
The problem is Mexico is an abomination in developing its economy. The thriving industrial areas are being overrun by corrupt officials and the rule of law is fading. Kidnappings on expats are up to an all time high and the country lost control of the Nuevo Laredo area earlier this year to rival drugs (see link info) http://narcosphere.narconews.com/story/2005/5/10/215352/497
A fence won't stop these problems.
Hawk's View: I'd rather see the US take the "fence money" and enact both an economic and anti-corruption plan for Mexico. Let's face it, without one you can't have the other (see Russia as an example that tries to have a free market sans rule of law). Yes, it sounds pie in the sky and the fence is the quickest way to get short term gains on the "war on illegals" but short term does not solve our problem. The bottom line is America is lucky with its geography. We have no neighbors to the east or west and our northern neighbor is the world's friendliest country. Yes we have a problem with our southern neighbor but a fence will only shield us from the greater issues going on. The best way to protect us is to make our neighbor stronger.
The Bastille is Being Stormed...Again
Most of you saw that France has been mired in a "Car Burning Extravaganza" over the past three weeks. The festivities, triggered by the accidental death of two youths hiding from police, has torn the country in two and brought to light decades of hidden racism among France and it's immigrant population.
France has prided itself as a place that is open to all (except Republicans) and has trumped for years a society of acceptance. However that has always been a (well hidden) facade. In reality, France has run a society that has segregated immigrants (specifically Muslim immigrants) and has created a permanent underclass of people. The uprising is really the modern day "proletariot" rising against the "bourgeois" demanding a better life.
France's government responded in the only fashion they know how: cowardly. First they denied the problem was anything but a "small group of thugs" then they ignored the reason for the issue alltogether. In their attempt to "fix" the problem France decided that tightening immigration and making it harder to be a citizen was the right way to solve this indignity.
Of course, they are wrong. The problem is the individuals who are rising up are doing so only because they seek to be treated equally. They want to be treated like all the other French citizens. They are upset that unemployment is double amongst their populace. They are upset that they cannot express themselves (EG, wearing headscarves as dictated by religious law). In short they want to be treated like humans not as cattle.
Finally, the world can see France for what it really is and always has been: a society of elitist.
Hawk's View: Tightening immigration does not solve the problem, because the problem is with people who are in France now and are LEGAL. Not only will this backfire, I don't think it will play well in the EU either. The first step toward solving this problem is to admit you have one and then make necessary steps. I'll even suggest what the first one would be: begin to break up the enormous ghettos that reside in and around Paris. Attempt to bring new French citizens into French society. Openness will always win over draconianism.
France has prided itself as a place that is open to all (except Republicans) and has trumped for years a society of acceptance. However that has always been a (well hidden) facade. In reality, France has run a society that has segregated immigrants (specifically Muslim immigrants) and has created a permanent underclass of people. The uprising is really the modern day "proletariot" rising against the "bourgeois" demanding a better life.
France's government responded in the only fashion they know how: cowardly. First they denied the problem was anything but a "small group of thugs" then they ignored the reason for the issue alltogether. In their attempt to "fix" the problem France decided that tightening immigration and making it harder to be a citizen was the right way to solve this indignity.
Of course, they are wrong. The problem is the individuals who are rising up are doing so only because they seek to be treated equally. They want to be treated like all the other French citizens. They are upset that unemployment is double amongst their populace. They are upset that they cannot express themselves (EG, wearing headscarves as dictated by religious law). In short they want to be treated like humans not as cattle.
Finally, the world can see France for what it really is and always has been: a society of elitist.
Hawk's View: Tightening immigration does not solve the problem, because the problem is with people who are in France now and are LEGAL. Not only will this backfire, I don't think it will play well in the EU either. The first step toward solving this problem is to admit you have one and then make necessary steps. I'll even suggest what the first one would be: begin to break up the enormous ghettos that reside in and around Paris. Attempt to bring new French citizens into French society. Openness will always win over draconianism.
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
The Hawk's Plan for New Orleans
The newspapers and media have been dominated by Hurricane Katrina and all the horrible things that happened. From "Iron" Mike Brown's so-called FEMA leadership to Mayor Ray Nagin conveniently blaming everyone, save for himself, for all the issues that transpired.
As much fun as it would be to take potshots, I've decided to focus my time, energy and fleeting sleep schedule on what should happen next to New Orleans. I've listed five ideas (along with new city names) that I'm sure the feds will take into consideration (they read this blog you know). All plans for rebuilding the city call for - wait for it - building the city "above" sea level. What a novel idea. Even an Iowa State engineer can figure that one out.
Drumroll please...
1. Vene-Orleans - My favorite plan is to turn New Orleans into a sort of Venice American Style (not to be confused with the poor 70's TV show Love American Style). This idea is kind of cool and the good news is the New Orleans already has a lingering bad smell (similar to Venice). Instead of gondolas the city could use flat bottom airboats.
2. Las New Orleans - That's right, turn the place into Vegas south. They were already there anyway. New Orleans has a casino and the necessary corrupt government and mob ties. All they were missing was the right marketing campaign. How about "What Gets Projectile Vomited in New Orleans, Stays on Streets of New Orleans." OK, maybe something a tad more subtle but work with me here.
3. Dome Orleans - They are probably going to want to pick a different name but why not just dome the whole damn place? It can even be retractable for all three of the days of the year where it is not stifling hot and humid. Think of the construction contract! I still haven't figured out how to land planes in a dome but I'm working on it.
4. AtlantisOrleans - OK, I lied. Not EVERY plan for the city included building it above sea level, but work with me here. Why fight nature. It's underwater, let's work with it. Now's our chance to prove to the world man CAN build a city underwater. We already have a head start as 60% of the buildings are sumbmerged anyway. I'm sure Trump would be interested in getting a casino built. We could call it TrumpTank.
5. Baja Orleans - Let's face it, all we really need from New Olreans is the port, other than that we could probably do without the city. The folks who have been displaced will no doubt find better lives in better cities. Jazz music can move to Memphis and the only other reason to keep New Orleans (the Sugar Bowl) could be moved to Houston. We could give Mexico the city and they could run it and employ all those illegal immigrants in the bars, casinos and strip joints that litter the city. Plus Mexico could get that warm fuzzy feeling that comes with regaining land you lost after getting slapped around a century ago. They get the city, we get paid in oil. What a deal.
Hawk's View: OK, more than likely I'm ahead of my time on my ideas but all kidding aside, New Orleans should be rebuilt (above ground) because that's what America does, it marches on. Look for a new, regentrified, city to be on the drawing board and look for America to embrace it and come back. Because there is nothing more that we love than a comeback story. Go New Orleans.
As much fun as it would be to take potshots, I've decided to focus my time, energy and fleeting sleep schedule on what should happen next to New Orleans. I've listed five ideas (along with new city names) that I'm sure the feds will take into consideration (they read this blog you know). All plans for rebuilding the city call for - wait for it - building the city "above" sea level. What a novel idea. Even an Iowa State engineer can figure that one out.
Drumroll please...
1. Vene-Orleans - My favorite plan is to turn New Orleans into a sort of Venice American Style (not to be confused with the poor 70's TV show Love American Style). This idea is kind of cool and the good news is the New Orleans already has a lingering bad smell (similar to Venice). Instead of gondolas the city could use flat bottom airboats.
2. Las New Orleans - That's right, turn the place into Vegas south. They were already there anyway. New Orleans has a casino and the necessary corrupt government and mob ties. All they were missing was the right marketing campaign. How about "What Gets Projectile Vomited in New Orleans, Stays on Streets of New Orleans." OK, maybe something a tad more subtle but work with me here.
3. Dome Orleans - They are probably going to want to pick a different name but why not just dome the whole damn place? It can even be retractable for all three of the days of the year where it is not stifling hot and humid. Think of the construction contract! I still haven't figured out how to land planes in a dome but I'm working on it.
4. AtlantisOrleans - OK, I lied. Not EVERY plan for the city included building it above sea level, but work with me here. Why fight nature. It's underwater, let's work with it. Now's our chance to prove to the world man CAN build a city underwater. We already have a head start as 60% of the buildings are sumbmerged anyway. I'm sure Trump would be interested in getting a casino built. We could call it TrumpTank.
5. Baja Orleans - Let's face it, all we really need from New Olreans is the port, other than that we could probably do without the city. The folks who have been displaced will no doubt find better lives in better cities. Jazz music can move to Memphis and the only other reason to keep New Orleans (the Sugar Bowl) could be moved to Houston. We could give Mexico the city and they could run it and employ all those illegal immigrants in the bars, casinos and strip joints that litter the city. Plus Mexico could get that warm fuzzy feeling that comes with regaining land you lost after getting slapped around a century ago. They get the city, we get paid in oil. What a deal.
Hawk's View: OK, more than likely I'm ahead of my time on my ideas but all kidding aside, New Orleans should be rebuilt (above ground) because that's what America does, it marches on. Look for a new, regentrified, city to be on the drawing board and look for America to embrace it and come back. Because there is nothing more that we love than a comeback story. Go New Orleans.
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Posting Update: Man United - The Yanks Go Marching In...
Man United, the venerable UK soccer (NOT football) club, won at home this past weekend for their first home win in this season Premier League.
The biggest news was that people were actually in the stands. When the club was sold to the Glazer family earlier this Summer Man United fans took to the streets with the crown of thorns sitting firmly atop their heads. They promised boycotts of Man U products and matches. No way those dastardly Americans would succeed owning this piece of British Culture.
As predicted by The Hawk, nothing has come of these blowhards. The stands at Old Trafford were full of beer imbibing soccer fans. The British Empire has not come to an end (if the cooking or Camilla Parker Bowles didn't do it, this certainly wouldn't).
Again, if the Glazer's use the type of forthright they did with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (sports worst franchise ever when they took over) than the boys from Man U will be fine. That's unfortunate for those boycotting blokes...
The biggest news was that people were actually in the stands. When the club was sold to the Glazer family earlier this Summer Man United fans took to the streets with the crown of thorns sitting firmly atop their heads. They promised boycotts of Man U products and matches. No way those dastardly Americans would succeed owning this piece of British Culture.
As predicted by The Hawk, nothing has come of these blowhards. The stands at Old Trafford were full of beer imbibing soccer fans. The British Empire has not come to an end (if the cooking or Camilla Parker Bowles didn't do it, this certainly wouldn't).
Again, if the Glazer's use the type of forthright they did with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (sports worst franchise ever when they took over) than the boys from Man U will be fine. That's unfortunate for those boycotting blokes...
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Coming to a Cable System Near You...The AK-4700 Club Hosted by Pat Robertson
Just when you thought you had heard it all, out comes this. The story of a America's favorite televangelist (just ask him) sounds off that we need to rub out the President of Venezuela.
You just can't make it up. Pat Robertson, he of Liberty University, The 700 Club and failed presidential runs, has decided that we need to take out the dastardly "Honest" Hugo Chavez of Venezuela.
Make no mistake Chavez is a clown. He's forced himself into power (via "elections") in the western hemisphere's largest oil producer. He's buddy-buddy with Fidel Castro and wants to use Venezuelan oil as a "weapon" against the US. Never mind that Venezuela currently happily sells oil to the US.
While the above is all true, Robertson's response is one of those things you think but DO NOT SAY. Especially on national TV (although The Hawk feels Robertson's audience probably agreed with him). Maybe Robertson's old and just doesn't care or maybe he's pining for attention. Either way his comments are a pathetic attempt by a man who's days as a relevant social voice are behind him. I even wonder if Robertson has some sort of business interest in Venezuela that makes him lean toward have "Honest" Hugo bumped off. Certainly if that is the case we will know more about that soon.
Hawk's View: Chavez is a thorn in the side of the US and make no mistake we want him out of there. But it won't come to us rubbing him out or even invading. We'll neuter him the way we do other despots. In the end Hugo will realize that the only way he can stay in power is by selling oil to the US. As for Robertson, maybe he can have a show on the NRA Network called the AK-4700 Club. Stay tuned.
You just can't make it up. Pat Robertson, he of Liberty University, The 700 Club and failed presidential runs, has decided that we need to take out the dastardly "Honest" Hugo Chavez of Venezuela.
Make no mistake Chavez is a clown. He's forced himself into power (via "elections") in the western hemisphere's largest oil producer. He's buddy-buddy with Fidel Castro and wants to use Venezuelan oil as a "weapon" against the US. Never mind that Venezuela currently happily sells oil to the US.
While the above is all true, Robertson's response is one of those things you think but DO NOT SAY. Especially on national TV (although The Hawk feels Robertson's audience probably agreed with him). Maybe Robertson's old and just doesn't care or maybe he's pining for attention. Either way his comments are a pathetic attempt by a man who's days as a relevant social voice are behind him. I even wonder if Robertson has some sort of business interest in Venezuela that makes him lean toward have "Honest" Hugo bumped off. Certainly if that is the case we will know more about that soon.
Hawk's View: Chavez is a thorn in the side of the US and make no mistake we want him out of there. But it won't come to us rubbing him out or even invading. We'll neuter him the way we do other despots. In the end Hugo will realize that the only way he can stay in power is by selling oil to the US. As for Robertson, maybe he can have a show on the NRA Network called the AK-4700 Club. Stay tuned.
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
Big Labor Gets Competitive Again
Last week in Chicago the AFL/CIO had its annual meeting/Democratic fundraiser. Usually the meeting is a backslapper with the obligatory bashing of all things non-labor (Read: Wal-Mart).
Only this meeting provided a few more fireworks. As expected, AFL/CIO President John Sweeney won a reelection, but in the face of it he is staring at a massive defection that has never been seen before in the labor union.
Both the Teamsters and the SEIU have stated they will be splitting off and taking their members with them. More than likely other unions will follow suit. The reasoning for the split is both simple and reasonable. The AFL/CIO has become too concerned with raising political dollars and in the process put recruiting new members on the backburner.
The decision to split makes sense. Labor representation in the workforce is at historic lows and everywhere you look companies are either shunning labor (Wal-Mart) or shafting them (the auto and airline industry). The mantra that the AFL/CIO has followed for years (being lap dogs to the Democratic party) has done zero to advance the cause of the labor union.
Hawk's View: Competition is a good thing. Having two competiting groups out there fighting for members will mean less time will be spent on funding Ted Kennedy's campaign and more time advancing the labor cause. Frankly this split should have happened ten years ago and that if nothing else it will make for great fun to watch the two groups out there shouting their message. The Hawk has his wings crossed that their first target will be Wal-Mart.
Only this meeting provided a few more fireworks. As expected, AFL/CIO President John Sweeney won a reelection, but in the face of it he is staring at a massive defection that has never been seen before in the labor union.
Both the Teamsters and the SEIU have stated they will be splitting off and taking their members with them. More than likely other unions will follow suit. The reasoning for the split is both simple and reasonable. The AFL/CIO has become too concerned with raising political dollars and in the process put recruiting new members on the backburner.
The decision to split makes sense. Labor representation in the workforce is at historic lows and everywhere you look companies are either shunning labor (Wal-Mart) or shafting them (the auto and airline industry). The mantra that the AFL/CIO has followed for years (being lap dogs to the Democratic party) has done zero to advance the cause of the labor union.
Hawk's View: Competition is a good thing. Having two competiting groups out there fighting for members will mean less time will be spent on funding Ted Kennedy's campaign and more time advancing the labor cause. Frankly this split should have happened ten years ago and that if nothing else it will make for great fun to watch the two groups out there shouting their message. The Hawk has his wings crossed that their first target will be Wal-Mart.
Monday, August 01, 2005
Hockey's Back
In case you didn't notice (and judging by their previous TV ratings, you didn't), hockey is back. I'll pause as the 12 guys in the bar in Yellowknife slam a Molson in excitement.
Yes the sport that brought you toothless men, the coolest trophy around and guys who think "eh" is actually a word will drop the puck in October in front of dozens of people in arenas around North America.
The sport missed last season due to a lockout as billionaire owners, who seemingly forgot how they became billionaires (guys, if you spend more than you take in that means you LOSE money...) finally realized they needed to be saved from themselves. But boy were they in for a lesson. The owners were up against a union that was stuck in its principal. "When it comes to a salary cap, we will not waiver" they screamed to the media. The players were prepared to fight it out and show those good for nothing owners (OK, just the guys who own the Blackhawks are good for nothing) who's in charge.
And boy did they do just that. Not since the French let the Germans roll through Paris WWII had a collection of individuals lay down collectively like the players association, and their fearless leader Bob "General Custer" Goodenow, did in these negotiations. For those of you who think I'm being too harsh, check out the scorecard below...
Salary Cap:
Player's Take: Not over my hockey-hair headed body
Reality: $37 MM cap
Salary Cuts
Player's Take: We scoff at that idea...
Reality: 24% rollback for everyone
Individual Salary Cap
Player's Take: What do you think this is the WNBA
Reality: No salary higher than $7MM
I think it's safe to say the owners ten runned the players on this one. However, the rub is that had the Union gotten serious about negotiating earlier they would have gotten a better deal. Goodenow and crew never thought the owners would shut down the season. Little did they know that the Gang of 30 would have been just fine taking a Winter off. When it got down to crunch time the Union hemmed and hawed at a salary cap of $42 MM. When they waited too long the owners pulled the deal. And the Union ended up getting less. The whole thing cost Union head Bob Goodenow his job (as it should).
Hawk's View: I don't consider myself much of a puckhead but I think hockey can make it back. Hockey fans are notoriously loyal and I expect teams will draw well (although don't expect the owners new found "cost certainty" to reflect in lower ticket prices). Where hockey really has a shot is with High Definition TV. The game represents better than any sporting event out there in HD (yes, even football) and is a lot more fun to watch. It'll take time but the Hawk feels that the future of the NHL is bright. Don't you agree, eh...
Yes the sport that brought you toothless men, the coolest trophy around and guys who think "eh" is actually a word will drop the puck in October in front of dozens of people in arenas around North America.
The sport missed last season due to a lockout as billionaire owners, who seemingly forgot how they became billionaires (guys, if you spend more than you take in that means you LOSE money...) finally realized they needed to be saved from themselves. But boy were they in for a lesson. The owners were up against a union that was stuck in its principal. "When it comes to a salary cap, we will not waiver" they screamed to the media. The players were prepared to fight it out and show those good for nothing owners (OK, just the guys who own the Blackhawks are good for nothing) who's in charge.
And boy did they do just that. Not since the French let the Germans roll through Paris WWII had a collection of individuals lay down collectively like the players association, and their fearless leader Bob "General Custer" Goodenow, did in these negotiations. For those of you who think I'm being too harsh, check out the scorecard below...
Salary Cap:
Player's Take: Not over my hockey-hair headed body
Reality: $37 MM cap
Salary Cuts
Player's Take: We scoff at that idea...
Reality: 24% rollback for everyone
Individual Salary Cap
Player's Take: What do you think this is the WNBA
Reality: No salary higher than $7MM
I think it's safe to say the owners ten runned the players on this one. However, the rub is that had the Union gotten serious about negotiating earlier they would have gotten a better deal. Goodenow and crew never thought the owners would shut down the season. Little did they know that the Gang of 30 would have been just fine taking a Winter off. When it got down to crunch time the Union hemmed and hawed at a salary cap of $42 MM. When they waited too long the owners pulled the deal. And the Union ended up getting less. The whole thing cost Union head Bob Goodenow his job (as it should).
Hawk's View: I don't consider myself much of a puckhead but I think hockey can make it back. Hockey fans are notoriously loyal and I expect teams will draw well (although don't expect the owners new found "cost certainty" to reflect in lower ticket prices). Where hockey really has a shot is with High Definition TV. The game represents better than any sporting event out there in HD (yes, even football) and is a lot more fun to watch. It'll take time but the Hawk feels that the future of the NHL is bright. Don't you agree, eh...
Motown Becomes Woetown
Good news came to all 300,000,000 Americans earlier this Summer - everyone of us was hired by the Big 3 automakers in Detroit. Yes that's right, each one of us now gets the employee discount. The same price every Ford, GM and Chrysler serf pays for their domestically made bucket of bolts.
The Motor City Madmen have once again reached a new low when it comes to selling cars. They are all so desperate to keep factories running so pension and health care costs can be met that they must churn out cars or perish. Yes, in the short run things will look good. However, the issue on the table has not changed - people still think Detroit still makes blah cars. The blip that all three will see in the short run will wear off quickly and they will all return back from Dreamland.
Throw out heavy trucks and a couple of models by GM (Cadillac) and Chrysler/Dodge and Detroit is still giving us a little better version of the cars we saw in Michael Moore's well done 1985 epic Roger and Me. Design, quality and marketing still win the war.
However, Detroit is not built that way. So hamstrung by concessions they have given to the UAW over the years, the Big 3 have a cost obligation that has completely dominated their scope for the better part of 15 years. It's all about volume, volume, volume and less about what people want.
The bottom line here is we should get used to the fact that good news coming out of Detroit will only arrive when moneylosing deals are thrown to customers. Right now the Big 3 are playing prevent defense just trying to survive the day. While they do that, Japan and even Korea for heaven's sakes, are running up the score on the legendary companies.
Hawk's View: I find the car industry fascinating (although I have a well known hatred of actually buying cars). Historically it has proven what is great about America. It is, to me, still what drives our economy. However, it is sad to see and industry that was once so great, be run as if it is taking cues from the Soviet Union central planning office. Detroit needs to get sober and find a middle ground with the Unions that will get costs in line. If it can't be negotiated than it may be time for a reorg to get this great industry back in the game.
The Motor City Madmen have once again reached a new low when it comes to selling cars. They are all so desperate to keep factories running so pension and health care costs can be met that they must churn out cars or perish. Yes, in the short run things will look good. However, the issue on the table has not changed - people still think Detroit still makes blah cars. The blip that all three will see in the short run will wear off quickly and they will all return back from Dreamland.
Throw out heavy trucks and a couple of models by GM (Cadillac) and Chrysler/Dodge and Detroit is still giving us a little better version of the cars we saw in Michael Moore's well done 1985 epic Roger and Me. Design, quality and marketing still win the war.
However, Detroit is not built that way. So hamstrung by concessions they have given to the UAW over the years, the Big 3 have a cost obligation that has completely dominated their scope for the better part of 15 years. It's all about volume, volume, volume and less about what people want.
The bottom line here is we should get used to the fact that good news coming out of Detroit will only arrive when moneylosing deals are thrown to customers. Right now the Big 3 are playing prevent defense just trying to survive the day. While they do that, Japan and even Korea for heaven's sakes, are running up the score on the legendary companies.
Hawk's View: I find the car industry fascinating (although I have a well known hatred of actually buying cars). Historically it has proven what is great about America. It is, to me, still what drives our economy. However, it is sad to see and industry that was once so great, be run as if it is taking cues from the Soviet Union central planning office. Detroit needs to get sober and find a middle ground with the Unions that will get costs in line. If it can't be negotiated than it may be time for a reorg to get this great industry back in the game.
News Corp's Family Feud
Today the Wall Street Journal featured a cover story on the sudden resignation of Lachlan Murdoch - Rupert Murdoch's son-in-waiting at News Corp.
The money on the table was Lachlan was likely to take over after his father leaves the earth sometime in the next 20 years. His resignation to "spend more time with his family" rings hollow to some who think that the real reason Lachlan is heading back Down Under is because there is a growing rift between the Old Man and his four eldest children.
Turns out that theory may be true. According to the Journal, there is a serious family feud brewing between Rupert's original family (4 grown children) and the new family (a thirtysomething wife with 2 young children). Apparently Rupert and his wife are changing around the family trust which is seriously diluting the inheritance (and power) the older children were said to be expecting to reap.
Apparently this spat and Rupert's constant meddling in Lachlan's affairs (he was COO of News Corp prior to his resignation) were to much for the lad. He chose to go the route of Rupert's two older daughters who have fled News Corp. Only Harvard drop-out and current bSkyb CEO James remains in the Empire. He is now the new leader in the clubhouse in the CEO sweepstakes.
Only don't be so sure. Another angle that has not been addressed is that Rupert's "publicly traded" company may end up in the hands of an outsider after he leaves. Specifically current president Peter Chernin. Rupert has said he wants his children to take over the company but only James remains (unless Rupert hangs around for another 20 years in time for either daughters Grace or Chloe - 2 and 3 respectively to take over). Another prospect - perish the thought - is that current wife Wendi Deng takes over (she was a former News Corp exec in Asia). Either way this promises to play out like one of Fox's insufferable reality shows.
Hawk's View: The Feud will be the stuff only the tabloids can love (maybe even one of Rupert's own rags will get the scoop) but investors should not fret the issue. At his heart the conservative Murdoch is a true capitalist. News Corp will not suffer a negative backlash from a family issue (unlike Cablevision). The Hawk believes in the bloke from Australia and will continue to ride his less-than-significant investment in News Corp. At $17 a share it's a bargain, family feud or not.
The money on the table was Lachlan was likely to take over after his father leaves the earth sometime in the next 20 years. His resignation to "spend more time with his family" rings hollow to some who think that the real reason Lachlan is heading back Down Under is because there is a growing rift between the Old Man and his four eldest children.
Turns out that theory may be true. According to the Journal, there is a serious family feud brewing between Rupert's original family (4 grown children) and the new family (a thirtysomething wife with 2 young children). Apparently Rupert and his wife are changing around the family trust which is seriously diluting the inheritance (and power) the older children were said to be expecting to reap.
Apparently this spat and Rupert's constant meddling in Lachlan's affairs (he was COO of News Corp prior to his resignation) were to much for the lad. He chose to go the route of Rupert's two older daughters who have fled News Corp. Only Harvard drop-out and current bSkyb CEO James remains in the Empire. He is now the new leader in the clubhouse in the CEO sweepstakes.
Only don't be so sure. Another angle that has not been addressed is that Rupert's "publicly traded" company may end up in the hands of an outsider after he leaves. Specifically current president Peter Chernin. Rupert has said he wants his children to take over the company but only James remains (unless Rupert hangs around for another 20 years in time for either daughters Grace or Chloe - 2 and 3 respectively to take over). Another prospect - perish the thought - is that current wife Wendi Deng takes over (she was a former News Corp exec in Asia). Either way this promises to play out like one of Fox's insufferable reality shows.
Hawk's View: The Feud will be the stuff only the tabloids can love (maybe even one of Rupert's own rags will get the scoop) but investors should not fret the issue. At his heart the conservative Murdoch is a true capitalist. News Corp will not suffer a negative backlash from a family issue (unlike Cablevision). The Hawk believes in the bloke from Australia and will continue to ride his less-than-significant investment in News Corp. At $17 a share it's a bargain, family feud or not.
Sunday, June 19, 2005
Dam The People
One of my favorite things to read about these days is the building of the Three Gorges Dam in China. When completed the dam will the world's largest and will free the Chinese people from the perils of the ravenous Yangtze River which has for years been a pox on the lives of those who lived near it.
The dam is not without its doubters. Naysayers ranges from environmentalists who claim the dam will fill up with silt and overflow, to geologists who are concerned that the dam is being built on a fault line to Amnesty International who is upset with how China is "moving" citizens out of the dam area.
They all may be right in their concerns but the one that sticks out to me right now is the issue with how China is treating the peasants living near the dam area. On the outside the government is claiming they are being careful and considerate with moving their citizens but what is happening is not the case. People are being forced out without compensation, some violently, and there is very little that can be done about that.
Or maybe not. The link in the article reads about how peasants are starting to fight back. Despite being outgunned and outmanned they are definitely no longer going quietly into the night.
This does not bode well for the "other China." The China we read all about talks about how the economic growth is something we have never witnessed in our lives. While that maybe true there are in fact two China's. The one we read about and the one that lives in almost medievel conditions. The fact that the second China is rising up and demanding better treatment is alarming to the overall stability of the country. There are a lot more poor people then well off people in the country. If the poor continue to fight back it might become even a bigger issue.
Hawk's View: I think that China's problems with their poorest citizens is the elephant in their room of progress. Yes they have a gifted and industrious society. But they also have what amounts to a new age feudal system and that does not sit well. Look for the issues to get much worse before they begin to get better. And also look for the dam to be an environmental nightmare.
www.threegorgesprobe.org
The dam is not without its doubters. Naysayers ranges from environmentalists who claim the dam will fill up with silt and overflow, to geologists who are concerned that the dam is being built on a fault line to Amnesty International who is upset with how China is "moving" citizens out of the dam area.
They all may be right in their concerns but the one that sticks out to me right now is the issue with how China is treating the peasants living near the dam area. On the outside the government is claiming they are being careful and considerate with moving their citizens but what is happening is not the case. People are being forced out without compensation, some violently, and there is very little that can be done about that.
Or maybe not. The link in the article reads about how peasants are starting to fight back. Despite being outgunned and outmanned they are definitely no longer going quietly into the night.
This does not bode well for the "other China." The China we read all about talks about how the economic growth is something we have never witnessed in our lives. While that maybe true there are in fact two China's. The one we read about and the one that lives in almost medievel conditions. The fact that the second China is rising up and demanding better treatment is alarming to the overall stability of the country. There are a lot more poor people then well off people in the country. If the poor continue to fight back it might become even a bigger issue.
Hawk's View: I think that China's problems with their poorest citizens is the elephant in their room of progress. Yes they have a gifted and industrious society. But they also have what amounts to a new age feudal system and that does not sit well. Look for the issues to get much worse before they begin to get better. And also look for the dam to be an environmental nightmare.
www.threegorgesprobe.org
Friday, June 17, 2005
Senator Byrd Fesses Up
There's a new book coming out by Senator Robert Byrd (D) West Virginia. The book chronicles Byrd's life growing up in the coal mines of his home state and his rise to power in the United States Senate.
To its credit the book discusses Byrd's turn in the Ku Klux Klan during the early 1940s. Byrd even credits his time in the KKK as his catalyst for entering politics. He won his local election to be "Immortal Cyclops" and was known as one of the best recruiters in the state.
When Byrd ran for office in 1946 he was called on to the carpet for this time in the white hood. He claimed to have only spent parts of 1942 through 1943 in the group but there is evidence to suggest he hung around longer.
What really got me on this one was Byrd "spinning" the Klan as a sort of "Southern Rotary Club" and full of upstanding citizens like doctors and lawyers. That may be all well and good but calling the Klan a Southern Rotary club is like calling the Irish Republican Army a recreational paint ball team. It is just all a bunch of nonsense.
Hawk's View: Byrd was in the Klan and why I don't condone that one bit he claims he was not part of any violent acts. There is no evidence to suggest he was and I don't think he ever did. But what is a complete sham is his suggestion that it was more of a social club than a place to promote hate. Byrd's decision to leave the Klan was the moral choice, period. What is not moral is trying to sell us all on how the Klan was "different" back then. No it wasn't and all Byrd had to say was he realized his life was taking him down a path he didn't want to go and that's why he made the change. People can understand that reason, but like The Hawk, they can't understand the reason he gave.
To its credit the book discusses Byrd's turn in the Ku Klux Klan during the early 1940s. Byrd even credits his time in the KKK as his catalyst for entering politics. He won his local election to be "Immortal Cyclops" and was known as one of the best recruiters in the state.
When Byrd ran for office in 1946 he was called on to the carpet for this time in the white hood. He claimed to have only spent parts of 1942 through 1943 in the group but there is evidence to suggest he hung around longer.
What really got me on this one was Byrd "spinning" the Klan as a sort of "Southern Rotary Club" and full of upstanding citizens like doctors and lawyers. That may be all well and good but calling the Klan a Southern Rotary club is like calling the Irish Republican Army a recreational paint ball team. It is just all a bunch of nonsense.
Hawk's View: Byrd was in the Klan and why I don't condone that one bit he claims he was not part of any violent acts. There is no evidence to suggest he was and I don't think he ever did. But what is a complete sham is his suggestion that it was more of a social club than a place to promote hate. Byrd's decision to leave the Klan was the moral choice, period. What is not moral is trying to sell us all on how the Klan was "different" back then. No it wasn't and all Byrd had to say was he realized his life was taking him down a path he didn't want to go and that's why he made the change. People can understand that reason, but like The Hawk, they can't understand the reason he gave.
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