May 2, 2011 - into the city

This week I am in Manhattan attending the Information and Network Security (IANS) Forum.

IANS is the leading provider of in-depth security insights delivered through its research, community, and consulting offerings. Fueled by interactions among IANS Faculty and end-users, IANS provides actionable advice to information security, risk management, and compliance executives. IANS powers better, faster, technical and managerial decisions through experience-driven advice.

Parking at Princeton Junction is often a challenge for me. If I arrive too late, I miss the opportunity to use one of the non-reserved spots. I made sure to get out early and catch the 6:39 express. Most of the people on the train were dressed in business suits. I have not worn a suit in a long time, and I wondered if I could get used to this sort of morning commute—something to consider.

Despite my best planning, I felt I was running late. I started walking frantically to arrive at my destination — the Roosevelt Hotel near Madison and W45th St. As I walked along 5th Avenue and I looked up and felt compelled to stop just for a moment.

Do I pay $2 per gallon for ethanol but $10 for a box of corn flakes?

I personally believe that creating "cheap" fuel from food ( corn or sugar or whatever ) just shifts the cost burden elsewhere. As demand for ethanol increases so will the demand for corn. That will directly impact the price that food companies pay for corn. It will also increase the cost that farmers pay for feed ( for cows and chickens ).

The MicroFueler will use sugar as its main fuel source, or feedstock, along with a specially packaged time-release yeast the company has developed. Depending on the cost of sugar, plus water and electricity, the company says it could cost as little as a dollar a gallon to make ethanol.

(Via -Home Brew for the Car, Not the Beer Cup - New York Times.)