On Tuesday, the BBC announced that it would start providing their TV content on iTunes: In the UK. This is a landmark decision, because quite frankly the BBC has some great shows, some of which don't translate well to the general US market. Unfortunately, for those few of us that follow the cult classics (Jonathan Creek, Rosemary and Thyme, etc.), we are left out in the cold. Sure, we can wait for years until the episodes come to DVD, but wouldn't it be smarter to provide downloads that are compatible with various formats (or at least iTunes for me)?
So, in my quest to get quality television (and no, I don't think American Idol is quality television), I have written an open letter to both the BBC and BBC America. The letter is limited by characters (due to the limitations for their email contact us form):
Recently, BBC Worldwide made (in my opinion) a landmark decision to provide BBC TV shows on iTunes in the UK for download. This is monumental in that quality BBC programming can be delivered directly to those that are more likely to purchase, and the delivery and distribution model is quite simple.
Has the BBC, or BBC America, considered doing the same here in the US? Now that the Apple TV has been designed more appropriately, it would most likely be in the BBC's best interest to consider providing content on iTunes. Popular cult classics like Rosemary and Thyme, or Jonathan Creek can reach a more targeted audience, shipping time will be almost immediate, and your loyal fans (guilty as charged!) will be forever in your debt.
I hope that the BBC will make the decision to provide their material on iTunes, as BBC Worldwide made in the UK. It would be a benefit to those of us who wish to be truly entertained with real, quality television that has not been "americanized".
I hope that the BBC understands that iTunes and similar distribution methods are ideal for targeting those that love the cult classics, lesser known shows, and those shows that have a limited target audience.
Showing posts with label Open Letter. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Open Letter. Show all posts
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Open Letter to West Valley City: A Bike Trail going East and West
My last post was regarding my adventures trying to commute from the west side of West Valley City to the east side, and from there to Downtown Salt Lake City. Well, as there are no real bike trails going East and West, I thought I would start the ball rolling by contacting my City Councilman regarding the need. Unfortunately, the Mayor doesn't have an email for contact, so I will be writing a snail mail letter to him.
In addition, for any of you who are interested in adding your vote to an open letter, I will be posting mine here in this blog entry:
Open Letter to West Valley City Council
Dear West Valley City Council,
The needs of cyclists within your fair city is indeed dire. In a city that has been dedicated to it's citizenry, the protection of those using alternative transportation has been sadly neglected.
How so? By excluding bike lanes from your roads, or by excluding multi-use trails through the city, cyclists have been forced to risk their lives on roads with little or no safety zones behind white lines. Sharing the road with cars is becoming more hazardous as the city expands with new construction.
Because alternative transportation presents a unique and healthy way to combat greenhouse gases, and can also boost the economy within local areas, I respectfully request that you consider multi-use trails and/or bike lanes within your fair city. Those that cycle to work will be more likely to continue to do so, and those that have been less inclined to cycle will be more likely to do so if safe avenues are provided.
Now, I made two claims regarding the benefits of cycling lanes and multi-use trails. Let me go into more detail regarding those benefits.
Greenhouse Gases and Bike Lanes or Trails
Several cities across the nation have plans to expand their bicycle infrastructure specifically to address the need for reducing greenhouse gases. Their plans and rationale can be found at these links:
Plans from Marin County, California
Missoula, Montana plans
Plans from the City of Seattle, Washington
Plans from the City of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
The list could continue on. As you can see, each of these government entities have recognized the need for expanded, save commutes for cyclists through their cities as an essential part of their commitment to reducing the production of greenhouse gases. My argument is the same. Reduce greenhouse gases by allowing people to safely travel the streets and paths through the city on their own power.
Boost to Local Economy
One thing that most "modern" cities lack is a truly local economy. Many cities, like West Valley, are a collection of suburban lots with a central shopping district that is generally too far of a walk to safely visit without driving. The only alternative would be using a bicycle to increase the range of those suburban dwellers that desire to shop. On the surface, this is an excellent example of why we should be looking to local economies when building bicycle lanes.
Another benefit would be the use of cycling lanes and trails by visitors to the city. West Valley can be the first west-side city to take advantage of regular bicycle tours, and those visiting are definitely going to use their dollars along the trails to be sure those trails remain for future tours.
While West Valley doesn't have scenic avenues going East to West, it is necessary to connect the Jordan River Parkway to the Oquirrh Mountain paths along the old Bacchus Highway, which is a frequented bicycle tour road. An investment of bike lanes within the City would provide an excellent travel opportunity for anyone touring along that road.
For more information on the economic benefits of bike trails and lanes, feel free to check out the following links:
From Darlington, United Kingdom
Greensboro, North Carolina
Study by the National Trails Training organization
There are many more points that I would like to make, but I hope that this at least gives the City some reasons for discussion, and more importantly reasons for action. This project would save thousands of dollars in gas money for the City residents, provide thousands more in increase economic spending by both residents and visitors, and will give West Valley City a place among the cyclists favored spots.
Please consider this much needed expansion.
Yours respectfully,
Jeremy Robb
In addition, for any of you who are interested in adding your vote to an open letter, I will be posting mine here in this blog entry:
Open Letter to West Valley City Council
Dear West Valley City Council,
The needs of cyclists within your fair city is indeed dire. In a city that has been dedicated to it's citizenry, the protection of those using alternative transportation has been sadly neglected.
How so? By excluding bike lanes from your roads, or by excluding multi-use trails through the city, cyclists have been forced to risk their lives on roads with little or no safety zones behind white lines. Sharing the road with cars is becoming more hazardous as the city expands with new construction.
Because alternative transportation presents a unique and healthy way to combat greenhouse gases, and can also boost the economy within local areas, I respectfully request that you consider multi-use trails and/or bike lanes within your fair city. Those that cycle to work will be more likely to continue to do so, and those that have been less inclined to cycle will be more likely to do so if safe avenues are provided.
Now, I made two claims regarding the benefits of cycling lanes and multi-use trails. Let me go into more detail regarding those benefits.
Greenhouse Gases and Bike Lanes or Trails
Several cities across the nation have plans to expand their bicycle infrastructure specifically to address the need for reducing greenhouse gases. Their plans and rationale can be found at these links:
Plans from Marin County, California
Missoula, Montana plans
Plans from the City of Seattle, Washington
Plans from the City of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
The list could continue on. As you can see, each of these government entities have recognized the need for expanded, save commutes for cyclists through their cities as an essential part of their commitment to reducing the production of greenhouse gases. My argument is the same. Reduce greenhouse gases by allowing people to safely travel the streets and paths through the city on their own power.
Boost to Local Economy
One thing that most "modern" cities lack is a truly local economy. Many cities, like West Valley, are a collection of suburban lots with a central shopping district that is generally too far of a walk to safely visit without driving. The only alternative would be using a bicycle to increase the range of those suburban dwellers that desire to shop. On the surface, this is an excellent example of why we should be looking to local economies when building bicycle lanes.
Another benefit would be the use of cycling lanes and trails by visitors to the city. West Valley can be the first west-side city to take advantage of regular bicycle tours, and those visiting are definitely going to use their dollars along the trails to be sure those trails remain for future tours.
While West Valley doesn't have scenic avenues going East to West, it is necessary to connect the Jordan River Parkway to the Oquirrh Mountain paths along the old Bacchus Highway, which is a frequented bicycle tour road. An investment of bike lanes within the City would provide an excellent travel opportunity for anyone touring along that road.
For more information on the economic benefits of bike trails and lanes, feel free to check out the following links:
From Darlington, United Kingdom
Greensboro, North Carolina
Study by the National Trails Training organization
There are many more points that I would like to make, but I hope that this at least gives the City some reasons for discussion, and more importantly reasons for action. This project would save thousands of dollars in gas money for the City residents, provide thousands more in increase economic spending by both residents and visitors, and will give West Valley City a place among the cyclists favored spots.
Please consider this much needed expansion.
Yours respectfully,
Jeremy Robb
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Jacques Chirac: An Impressive Leader, and Open Letter to Nicolas Sarkozy
Many of you who know me personally know my position on French politics. I have been a critic for a long time, having my opinion reinforced after spending time in Germany. I take issue with many of the policies France has passed in their political career. But that all changed as I started following President Chirac's influence in the recent years.
What really changed my opinion of France and it's politics was President Chirac's insistence that France lead the peacekeeping mission to Lebanon. In a very sensitive situation, France was willing to devote the necessary resources to lead the UN mission. In my mind, this is a breakthrough that should propel France back into the world stage as a leading country to be respected.
From that point, and with the instance Chirac has given to world security, I have a new, growing respect for the country that assisted the United States in their Independence, and then leave the US to handle the rest of the Viet-Nam war.
With the out-going speech of Chirac, I would like to add the following open letter to incoming President Nicholas Sarkozy:
President Sarkozy,
As I am sure you are aware, your country is in a unique position. Your proposed economic reforms are encouraging, and will most likely build up your country into the economic powerhouse it once was. Your reform of welfare systems is brilliant, and could become a powerful labor asset if executed correctly. Based on the policies that I have read about, here are some humble suggestions that you may find encouraging:
Regarding The Economy
Tax cuts are often looked upon by governments as a disaster. But the additional revenue that is then spent within the economy is the best way to bring a country out of a huge economic slump. When this policy was enacted by Ronald Reagan in the United States, the country's economy grew exponentially. I applaud you for the same thinking, and I'm sure your people will as well. Everyone likes having more money to spend.
One thing I would warn you against is encouraging a debtor society. I would recommend educational programs designed to help your countrymen save as well as spend. While the economy may not grow as quickly, it will save your country when the economy eventually takes a down turn (as every economy does eventually). If the people have savings, they are more secure, and therefore less likely to panic during an economic slump.
Regarding Welfare
One of the best benefits and welfare programs in the world is located within the LDS Church's Welfare Square. The program not only encourages people to work for the welfare they receive (hence keeping their self-esteem from plummeting), but it provides educational facilities for worker training. That way the worker is no longer dependent on the welfare system, and instead is encouraged to get out there and work on their own.
Will there be people that will still try to work the system? Of course, you will get that no matter what system is put in place. While I am sure you already have your plans set, I would still like to extend a welcome for you to visit Salt Lake City, Utah to see the LDS Church Welfare system at work. I think you would be quite impressed.
Regarding Crime
Socrates lamented the call of his friend Crito to escape Athens when Athens had sentenced him to death. Socrates then proceeded to question him on various points of morality, eventually coming to the conclusion that should he disobey the will of the State, the State then has every right to deny him the citizenship for which he claimed. As he loved his country and countrymen, he could not accept the possibility of leaving Athens to save his life when they had condemned him to death.
Along that same thought, those that choose to break the laws should be brought to justice. Justice is necessary to keep a society coherent, and thereby keeps the society strong. Once justice becomes perverted by those that use it for their own purposes, the structure of society becomes equally perverted, and begins to break down.
That being said, mercy is always a virtue, and should be considered when evidence points to a truly repentant person. I am not a judge, and as such do not have to make these distinctions, and I am grateful for it. I do not envy your task in Crime reform, but commend you for the effort.
Immigration
This is an issue that the US has yet to come to terms with, as with many other countries across the globe. Because of the Global nature of the economy, more immigration issues have come to the fore-front. As such, I hope that you approach your immigration policies with understanding, compassion, and a desire to strengthen the nation, and not divide it.
One story I heard about migrant workers in Spain focused on the desire to use mothers from various countries, with the expectation that the mothers are more likely to return to their children. I'm sure you have heard of this story, and perhaps have something similar in mind. I commend you for taking on such a pioneering issue.
The Environment
Despite the movement of the US Government, many in the US believe that environmental reform is necessary for the future of our planet. I commend your push for higher taxes on pollution-producing entities. I would also recommend that you encourage domestic development of alternative energy as well. Also, the plan to increase bike riding within Paris is inspired. I hope it is greeted with a great success!
I am sure you have a number of other positions that you wish to bring forward within the next year. My sincere desire is that you look to President Chirac when considering foreign policy. I do not expect anyone to fall in line with the US on international issues, but I do hope that all nations will have a desire to secure a safer, and therefore more prosperous, world for all to live in.
I wish you luck, and best wishes from the United States of America.
What really changed my opinion of France and it's politics was President Chirac's insistence that France lead the peacekeeping mission to Lebanon. In a very sensitive situation, France was willing to devote the necessary resources to lead the UN mission. In my mind, this is a breakthrough that should propel France back into the world stage as a leading country to be respected.
From that point, and with the instance Chirac has given to world security, I have a new, growing respect for the country that assisted the United States in their Independence, and then leave the US to handle the rest of the Viet-Nam war.
With the out-going speech of Chirac, I would like to add the following open letter to incoming President Nicholas Sarkozy:
President Sarkozy,
As I am sure you are aware, your country is in a unique position. Your proposed economic reforms are encouraging, and will most likely build up your country into the economic powerhouse it once was. Your reform of welfare systems is brilliant, and could become a powerful labor asset if executed correctly. Based on the policies that I have read about, here are some humble suggestions that you may find encouraging:
Regarding The Economy
Tax cuts are often looked upon by governments as a disaster. But the additional revenue that is then spent within the economy is the best way to bring a country out of a huge economic slump. When this policy was enacted by Ronald Reagan in the United States, the country's economy grew exponentially. I applaud you for the same thinking, and I'm sure your people will as well. Everyone likes having more money to spend.
One thing I would warn you against is encouraging a debtor society. I would recommend educational programs designed to help your countrymen save as well as spend. While the economy may not grow as quickly, it will save your country when the economy eventually takes a down turn (as every economy does eventually). If the people have savings, they are more secure, and therefore less likely to panic during an economic slump.
Regarding Welfare
One of the best benefits and welfare programs in the world is located within the LDS Church's Welfare Square. The program not only encourages people to work for the welfare they receive (hence keeping their self-esteem from plummeting), but it provides educational facilities for worker training. That way the worker is no longer dependent on the welfare system, and instead is encouraged to get out there and work on their own.
Will there be people that will still try to work the system? Of course, you will get that no matter what system is put in place. While I am sure you already have your plans set, I would still like to extend a welcome for you to visit Salt Lake City, Utah to see the LDS Church Welfare system at work. I think you would be quite impressed.
Regarding Crime
Socrates lamented the call of his friend Crito to escape Athens when Athens had sentenced him to death. Socrates then proceeded to question him on various points of morality, eventually coming to the conclusion that should he disobey the will of the State, the State then has every right to deny him the citizenship for which he claimed. As he loved his country and countrymen, he could not accept the possibility of leaving Athens to save his life when they had condemned him to death.
Along that same thought, those that choose to break the laws should be brought to justice. Justice is necessary to keep a society coherent, and thereby keeps the society strong. Once justice becomes perverted by those that use it for their own purposes, the structure of society becomes equally perverted, and begins to break down.
That being said, mercy is always a virtue, and should be considered when evidence points to a truly repentant person. I am not a judge, and as such do not have to make these distinctions, and I am grateful for it. I do not envy your task in Crime reform, but commend you for the effort.
Immigration
This is an issue that the US has yet to come to terms with, as with many other countries across the globe. Because of the Global nature of the economy, more immigration issues have come to the fore-front. As such, I hope that you approach your immigration policies with understanding, compassion, and a desire to strengthen the nation, and not divide it.
One story I heard about migrant workers in Spain focused on the desire to use mothers from various countries, with the expectation that the mothers are more likely to return to their children. I'm sure you have heard of this story, and perhaps have something similar in mind. I commend you for taking on such a pioneering issue.
The Environment
Despite the movement of the US Government, many in the US believe that environmental reform is necessary for the future of our planet. I commend your push for higher taxes on pollution-producing entities. I would also recommend that you encourage domestic development of alternative energy as well. Also, the plan to increase bike riding within Paris is inspired. I hope it is greeted with a great success!
I am sure you have a number of other positions that you wish to bring forward within the next year. My sincere desire is that you look to President Chirac when considering foreign policy. I do not expect anyone to fall in line with the US on international issues, but I do hope that all nations will have a desire to secure a safer, and therefore more prosperous, world for all to live in.
I wish you luck, and best wishes from the United States of America.
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