9 chapters across the catalog
Hybrid Electric Ferry Failure, Washington State Ferries
The "Wenatchee," Washington State's first hybrid electric ferry, was pulled from service just two months after a two-year renovation. The vessel experienced mechanical issues while docking in Seattle. Critics point to the dangers of using large battery systems in a saltwater environment as a fundamental flaw in the conversion project.
Good News: Grace Chimchak Graduates with Newborn
The "Good News" segment features Grace Chimchak, who walked across the stage at Ferris State University with her newborn baby just days after giving birth. The story is presented as an inspiring example of motherhood and perseverance, though the hosts also critique the modern hospital trend of scheduled C-sections.
Norway is leading a push for electric transport, aiming for all short-haul flights to be battery-powered by 2040 and banning the sale of conventional cars by 2025. The country is also deploying electric ferries to reduce noise and exhaust. Critics point out that these initiatives are heavily subsidized by the government and funded by Norway's significant oil and gas wealth.
Economic Impact of Tariffs, Ben Stein and "Ferris Bueller"
CNBC uses a clip from Ferris Bueller's Day Off featuring Ben Stein to explain the historical failure of the Hawley-Smoot Tariff Act. However, the real Ben Stein appears on CNBC to defend the new tariffs, citing the need for a strong domestic metals industry in the event of a "hot war" with Russia. The hosts debate the actual cost increase to consumers, noting it may only be pennies for a six-pack of beer but more significant for industries like aerospace.
San Francisco Pillow Fight, Valentine's Day Tradition
Hundreds of people gathered at the San Francisco Ferry Building for the annual Valentine's Day street pillow fight. Participants are encouraged to use synthetic pillows to minimize the cleanup of feathers, though the event still resembles a "blizzard" of debris. While some view it as a romantic tradition, others use the free-for-all to release frustration and anger in a socially acceptable, albeit chaotic, manner.
Brothers Ferris and Dan Wilkes of Cisco, Texas, have emerged as the top political donors of the 2016 cycle, giving $15 million to a Super PAC supporting Ted Cruz. The brothers made their fortune in the fracking industry and previously lived in a "goat shed." They join other mega-donors like the Koch brothers in promising record-breaking spending for the election.
Police evacuated Circular Quay in Sydney, Australia, after a suspicious package was found on a ferry named *Friendship*. The package was later determined to be non-suspicious, leading the hosts to characterize the event as an unnecessary exercise in public terrorization.
Lack of Sick Leave, Public Health Contamination
A discussion regarding the spread of the flu highlights the lack of mandated sick leave for young workers in service industries. Employees at high-traffic locations, such as the San Francisco Ferry Building, are reportedly forced to work while ill, contributing to the rapid spread of the virus. The hosts argue that this lack of legislative protection is a significant public health oversight.
Transatlantic Aircraft Ferry Flight, Tony the Pilot
A 70-year-old ferry pilot named Tony completed his 550th transatlantic crossing, delivering a Cessna 182 from London to Oakland. The six-day journey included a repair stop in Vermont for a broken vacuum pump and a high-altitude leg over the Rockies at 16,000 feet without supplemental oxygen. The aircraft is a retractable-gear model with long-range tanks capable of seven-hour flights.
