You'll Flush And You'll Like It

A lot of toilet technology on these pages lately. Go figure. The latest and greatest are waterless urinals - the perfect application of technology and conservation. Unfortunately, a plumber's union in Philly does not share my sanguine outlook. Apparently, less water means fewer pipes and that means less graft work and overbilling overtime. The unions have flexed their muscles and slowed down work on what was to be a showcase for eco- friendly design in high rise construction. I'm generally sympathetic to unions but not this time. I can't help but read stories like this and think about scenes from a Sopranos' episode where mob surrogates hook up their buddies with imaginary jobs, driving up the cost of business, infliciting violence on those who threaten the gravy train, all so they can afford to re-pave the driveways of their Jersey Shore summer homes. Time to adapt guys, the future has just begun, and while some things may change, I'm pretty sure we'll still be needing water piped into our homes and businesses for a long time.