In a word: Snyder

Original at Hysterical Raisins.

And now, some related news.

Detroit News: Snyder reorganizes energy, labor department, gives it new name

Lansing— Gov. Rick Snyder today announced a major reorganization of the Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth that will include a new name — the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

"By consolidating its core functions under one roof and transferring responsibilities that were not compatible to the appropriate agencies, this streamlined department is better positioned to serve its customers while significantly contributing to our overall goal of fostering economic success," Snyder said.

"Its customers" not "the citizens" or even "the taxpayers." Well, it looks like the Tough Nerd is serious about running Michigan like a business. Too bad a state government isn't a business.

So, what did Snyder do with the functions you think are not compatible with the core purpose of the new department, particularly my favorite, energy?

Also moving to the Strategic Fund are the department's energy functions, the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and the Land Bank Fast Track, Snyder said in a news release.

I didn't find the news release, but I did find the executive orders. I'll quote those in a diary on Daily Kos and Michigan Liberal.

Abolished are the Automobile and Home Insurance Consumer Advocate and the position of chief energy officer, both created by Snyder's predecessor, former Gov. Jennifer Granholm, in 2008.

I much preferred the old name--it was a recognition of the roles of labor and energy in economic growth. The new name and organizational chart deny these connections. Why, there is no longer a chief energy officer! Hey, folks, way to signal that Michigan no longer has an energy policy! *grump*

Originally posted as a comment on Daily Kos.

Next Media Animation's take on...George R.R. Martin?

George R.R. Martin began publishing his A Song of Ice and Fire series in 1996. The four books in the series so far have sold more than 7 million copies worldwide and been translated into 20 languages.Because of the series' great popularity, HBO decided to make the first book, 'Game of Thrones', into a 10-episode miniseries set to premiere on April 17, 2011. It cost $45 million, making it one of the most expensive TV shows ever made.

Martin takes about five years to finish each book, causing many fans to wonder whether the story will ever be finished. Martin has said that if he passes away before it's completed, all his notes and manuscripts will be destroyed. Fans' patience has been running at an all-time low due to continual delays in publication of the fifth book, 'A Dance with Dragons'. But good news everyone! Martin has announced the publication date of the fifth book. It will be available in bookstores in the UK and US on July 12th!

PS, Correction at 1:27, should be 七月 (July) :)

My comment: This is the geekiest animation yet. I approve!

Beware the Ides of March!

What did you expect, Shakespeare?