…and their unintended consequences.
As Glenn says, the solution for this at the VA is to simply give the vets vouchers to seek medical care.
2018 Space Predictions
Dale Amon and Doug Weathers (former XCOR employees) have some.
I don’t understand what they mean by Cosmic Girl being in “the Hawthorne area,” though. I would assume it’s in Long Beach, by the Virgin Orbit facility.
Senator Romney
Yes, my problem with Mitt has always been that he is ideologically empty, and executive skills aren’t of much value in a senator. I don’t get it.
For College Administrators
Five New Year’s resolutions for 2018.
Long overdue. Of course, the problem is that many administrators’ jobs are dependent on this nonsense.
America In Space
Keith Cowing is pessimistic.
I’m not. NASA isn’t able to lead, but America will continue to.
[Update a few minutes later]
Speaking of which…
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Launch now NET Jnuary 15th, with static engine test on Saturday. That will be impressive by itself, even without a lift off. If it’s successful, chances of a successful launch go way up. I suspect the biggest uncertainty is plume interaction between the cores, and that will resolve it.
Limiting State And Local Tax Deductions
Yes, it is a big f**king deal.
We accelerated our property tax payment to get it in this year, before the limit hits next year. This will cost us, but I hope it has the effect of finally reining in the tax-hungry politicians in Sacramento. It might even make it a useful campaign issue to get a few more Republicans into the legislature.
[Wednesday-morning update]
States trying to come up with new schemes to get around the limits.
Anything except actually reducing spending.
Aircraft Carriers
Polar From The Cape
A few weeks ago, the commander of Vandenberg said that he was facing competition from Florida. I didn’t understand what he was talking about, but apparently, they’ve found a southerly corridor that will allow them to get to high inclination from the Cape.
Also, though no one is talking about this yet, reusable first stages will probably allow inland spaceports with a high range of azimuths at some point.
Law Clerks
I like this idea. Let’s get rid of them. It could be part of the swamp draining.
[Afternoon update]
Related: Yes, let’s reform the civil service. It’s long overdue.
On The Road Again
We left Denver yesterday, and drove down to Taos. Unfortunately, the galleries were closed; I guess it was considered too chilly to keep them open even on a Friday night in holiday season. But the plaza was decorated, and it was lovely. Heading to Phoenix this evening to stay with Patricia’s sister, then back to LA in time for New Year’s Even tomorrow.