Daily Archives: May 20, 2009

Is America ready for smaller cars?

May 20, 200911:54 a.m.

CORRECTION Obama AutosIt’s impressive that automobile manufacturers, both foreign and domestic, are supporting a significant increase in fuel-efficiency standards, after years of fighting higher standards. In the case of GM and Chrysler, though, that may be because they have no choice.
Requiring an average of 35.5 miles per gallon should have a dramatic impact on the environment and our fossil-fuel dependency, saving an estimated 1.8 billion barrels of oil through 2016. But it remains to be seen whether automakers will be able to achieve this standard and do so profitably, given that many American consumers prefer bigger cars. A Wall Street Journal editorial noted: “All that’s left to arrive at the president’s new destination for the American way of driving are huge, unanswered questions about technology, financing and the marketability of cars that will be small and expensive.”

By Rhonda Holman | Filed under Business, President Obama | Comments (140)

Upside to downturn?

May 20, 20096:04 a.m.

moversWriter Michael Medved sees in the dramatic decline in residential mobility “grounds for encouragement and reassurance,” he wrote for USA Today, viewing it as especially positive for kids and stable families and communities. “Too often, news reports ignore the unanticipated blessings that flow from the tough business climate,” he said. “Numbers suggest a dramatic drop in revenue for lotteries and casinos meaning less money squandered on gaming and less risk of gambling addiction. Other figures suggest fewer divorce filings as fewer couples can afford legal bills and separate residences.”

By Rhonda Holman | Filed under Economy | Comments (44)

Open thread 5/20

May 20, 20096:03 a.m.

thread3100

By The Editors | Filed under Open thread | Comments (206)

Center is opening not a moment too soon

May 20, 20096:02 a.m.

jobless9Some struggling Wichitans likely wish it was already open, but it’s good that Laid-Off Workers Center is now taking appointments. The center opens June 1 and will offer financial assistance for food, shelter and utilities and help in job searches. Kudos to the United Way of the Plains for operating the center and for its commitment to helping those in need. To make an appointment, call the United Way’s information number, 2-1-1, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

By Phillip Brownlee | Filed under Economy, Wichita | Comments (4)

Arena already spurring redevelopment

May 20, 20096:01 a.m.

unionstation1Plans for the former Union Station sound promising and are an example of how the Intrust Bank Arena is spurring redevelopment, even in a down economy. Phil Frigon of Cantilever Wichita hopes to close on purchasing Union Station in the next 90 to 120 days and plans tenant announcements soon after. Steve Martens of Grubb & Ellis/Martens Commercial Group said that the arena’s proximity was a big factor in marketing the landmark building, which first opened in 1914. And as Jeff Fluhr, president of the Wichita Downtown Development Corp., noted, “adding retail and hospitality to the arena neighborhood is a huge win for downtown.”

By Phillip Brownlee | Filed under Wichita | Comments (37)

75 years of helping children, families

May 20, 20096:00 a.m.

heartspringsCongratulations and many thanks to Heartspring for 75 years of helping children with disabilities and their families. The Wichita center began at the University of Wichita in 1934 and became the Institute of Logopedics in 1949. It was renamed Heartspring in 1993, and its primary focus now is on outpatient care and clients with autism. During its 75 years, the center has helped thousands of children from around the country. As an Eagle article noted, it has given a voice to children without one.

By Phillip Brownlee | Filed under Health and safety, Wichita | Comments (4)