Did you know about the helium shortage? If you blow up balloons for any reason, you’re probably aware that the stuff which causes balloons to float is at a premium these days. If not, unless you’re a welder, a silicon wafer manufacturer or run an MRI machine, you might not have known about it. Helium is used for all these purposes.
The government stores helium in Texas, and recently prices increased dramatically. The government’s reservoir seems in danger of failing to produce enough in the next few years, and we are responsible for three-quarters of the world’s supply. The leading helium tank manufacturer found in most party supply stores–Balloon Time–has actually added a label to some tanks indicating that some of the gas in the tank is air (with only 80% helium). That means your balloons may not float as long as before.
So now we have another government hurdle to clear. Let’s challenge our candidates and offer to vote for the one who does something about the helium issue. That will put some starch in their shirts (or blouses, depending on whom you are addressing).
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