UA earnings conference call

An archived copy of the UA earnings call which was held on Thursday the 21^st 2011 can be found here. I'm sure most of you read the highlights of the call as reported in the various newspapers, but there are two sections of the call lasting several minutes apiece regarding the ongoing negotiations at United. The first can be found beginning around the six minute mark and the second begins at the 52:40 mark. In between there is one other quick reference to bargaining and the question was "why are you dragging out negotiations?" at the 34:04 mark and that Q&A lasts for about a minute.

If you have the time the call lasts about an hour and it is certainly worth listening too.

Historic plane order

American just ordered a mix of Airbus and Boeing planes totaling 460. Here is the article.

It’s only money

Here is an article describing the ongoing battle regarding the Metro station at Dulles. While it appears much work has been done while traveling up the Dulles toll road, my guess is it will be many more years before this vital transportation link is completed. The article describes the debate about an above ground station as opposed to a below ground one. The difference looks like only one billion dollars.

TSA groping with a twist

Here's an interesting twist on groping at airport security.

Autism Speaks

Some of you know, and others do not but my two youngest sons are deaf and both also suffer autism spectrum disorder. When my wife and I first learned this, it truly felt like a death sentence. However as time went by and we learned how to help them manage their lives, we both realized it was not a death sentence, only a different path in life. Along the way we learned sign language, advocacy and patience along with other skills that made us into the people we are. Normally I wouldn't share this but I witnessed a young man at the convention in Las Vegas who is blind and autistic sing the National Anthem and Lean on Me. His performance was inspiring to say the least. One thing I know, having lived it, even given the challenges he faces he will be successful in life because of his drive. My middle son had the same determination and eventually received a full scholarship at Gallaudet University. My youngest son still continues the struggle with autism but he grows more every day. Here are the links to Christopher Duffley singing at the convention. The National Anthem and Lean on Me.

If you would like to learn more about Autism please visit Autism Speaks. And if you are looking to donate money please consider this fine organization.