In an effort to get gas-guzzling, air-polluting old cars off the road, Germany offered a “scrappage” incentive of $3,194 in January of this year. The program was also supposed to stimulate new-car sales.
Critics said it wouldn’t work because people would just buy used cars with the money. And the program would do little to reduce carbon emissions because making new cars creates emissions.
In February, however, new-car registrations in Germany were up by 21 percent. In the United States, new-car registrations were down by 41 percent.
California and Texas already have their own scrappage programs. Ford is lobbying for a nation-wide program in the United States.

Hitachi hopes to become the first major TV maker to sell sets that respond to gesture commands, such as those used on the Wii. Technology has advanced to the point where gesture-based systems are moving into the TV and PC markets.
Improved cameras in these devices can detect how far away an object is from the lens, making interpretation of movement far more accurate. Prices are expected to fall enough that it will be possible to build them into televisions.
Consumers then will be able to sit in a chair 10 feet away and rotate a hand to raise the volume on a TV.
Hewlett-Packard says it hopes to include gesture technology late this year in certain products.

1st posted speed limit was in NY in 1904—20mph

Seems like car insurance has become a commodity as of late. No mention of more benefits/value or the solid financial well being of the insurance company, just cost.

When almost 100 insurance companies recently had their financial ratings downgraded it came as a shock to many. When companies use projected investment income to offset the cost of an underpriced product they become vulnerable in the worst way….with our money.

We realize the importance of being frugal in these difficult times and are doing something about it. We have undertaken a gigantic project this year at the office to ensure that each one of you is getting the best possible price for your situation. We are preparing comparison quotes for each of you with our best companies. In the case that there are substantial savings, we will be mailing you a package with all the info. for you to look over. Keep in mind, we will be sure to point out any disadvantages of “switching” as well.

I built my business with Erie Insurance and most of you are probably now insured with Erie. I am still a big believer in Erie Insurance and truly feel they are one of the best in the business. With that said, my obligation is to “You” my clients…. And that will be first and foremost when I am searching for better value.

Companies that sell homeowners insurance are looking very carefully at who and what they insure. The industry is trying to rebuild a business that has become a money loser in recent years,

They are declining coverage of houses that have had water damage or severe claims of any kind. Adding to that, they are trying to protect themselves from claims based on dangerous apparatus outside the house. Trampolines, swimming pools, diving boards, or certain kinds of family pets can cause some companies to decline insurance.

Different companies are sensitive to different kinds of risks. Nationwide won’t cover homes that have big dogs like pit bulls, Dobermans, and Rottweilers because they risk injury or death to kids and adults. Other companies cover you if your dog has a good record and hasn’t bitten anyone.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Farmers Insurance will pay one dog bite claim for a policyholder but no more.