China

Nice cover story in Business Week about whether China can keep up its
growth in light of lax environmental standards, consumer product
safety snafus, and an unwillingness to rein in local leaders who are
too much in bed with business. I tend to be fairly libertarian /
pro-business when it comes to these things, but while government isn't
always the best mechanism, it still needs to play a role. Keep an eye
out, as I know you do - this is a moment in time that could lead to
the creation of the next great superpower, or there could be unrest
and disaster unparalleled in the history of mankind.

http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_30/b4043001.htm

While we're on the subject of China, I had heard about Philly
petitioning for direct flights to Beijing, and then I got this email
from the head of Select Greater Philadelphia (edited because I'm not
sure if they're OK with publishing email addresses and phone numbers).
To the extent that business in China is booming, it certainly puts
Philly on the map to have flights that go there directly. Selfishly,
this could be perfect timing for when we head over there in early 2009
for our second China adoption.

-----Original Message-----
From: Thomas G. Morr
Sent: Thu 7/19/2007 4:43 PM
To: Thomas G. Morr
Subject: Call To Ambassadors: Regional Support for US Airways Flight to Beijing

I am writing all Greater Philadelphia Ambassadors to ask for your help.
US Airways has announced it is applying for the rights to fly nonstop
service from Philadelphia to Beijing, China in 2009. This flight will
be the first step in starting service from Philadelphia to other points
in Asia, and we welcome the economic benefit that will come to the
region as a result.

In order for US Airways to start this service, they must apply with the
U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and be awarded a designation to
serve China. This process involves many steps, one of which is
gathering support from the community. I am asking you to submit a
letter to the DOT in support of US Airways' application.

A process has been set up to help make this easy for you. Attached is a
sample letter that you can copy onto your letterhead, sign, and send to
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). PHL will then submit your
letter to the DOT on your behalf. Any customization of the letter would
be very much appreciated. Please note in the first paragraph there are
two "blanks" that need to be filled in on the sample letter.

The DOT's route selection process for these route rights is compressed,
so the letters need to be submitted rather quickly. We ask that you
please get the letters to Philadelphia International Airport by Friday,
July 27, 2007.

We look forward to the day when the Greater Philadelphia region can
enjoy nonstop service to Asia from PHL, and we hope you will help us get
there.

Sincerely,

Tom

Thomas G. Morr
President and CEO
Select Greater Philadelphia
200 South Broad Street, Suite 700
Philadelphia, PA 19102-3896

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