NOLA, Prayers :o(

An anxious day today.  As we have puttered around J-Land and such, we have been monitoring the situation in the Gulf.   A new friend Miss Ginger, and Beth, have both put up entries regarding the pending hurricane Gustav.  It seems that NOLA is better prepared than previously, with a mandatory evacuation already in place, and [this is for you Indy] there is an evacuation plan for all the critters as well.  Please keep all the people and animals in the Gulf region in your prayers and thoughts, I know we are. 

Tags: NOLA, Gustav, Critters

At A Loss :o(

Hard to believe, but it is a tie.  So, as I type this, I am the last candidate to announce my running mate.  As I mentioned in a previous entry, The Toweler VP Selection, I was seeking your input regarding my running mate.  Alas, it is a tie. 

I considered variations on the results, Jack Cowell, or Simon Nicholson, but neither of them seemed to fit the bill.  So J-Land, I must again infringe on your supreme decision-making capabilities, and seek your input.  Below are a few of my thoughts, and a poll, so please, let me know who I should select to go up against the vastly experienced Biden and the relatively unknown and inexperienced Palin.

Jack Nicholson - What can I say about the icon?  While I have been known to be a tyrant with a 9-Iron, nothing compared to one of Jack's reactions to driving in the city.  He has demonstrated his understanding of the urban mentality, and his various movie roles have shown that he can be in touch with both mainstream and psycho-land.  I have to admit that his lack of foreign film experience makes me wonder if there is a potential weakness in his foreign affairs positions and experience.

Simon Cowell - He is the new kid on the block.  While it might be interesting to see a debate between Sarah Palin and Simon, both of whom know little of American politics,  I think that Simon would mop the floor with her based on his being foreign and all.  What argument could be brought forward regarding illegal immigration, he has the most popular reality TV show in America, and he is a Brit!  As for domestic policy, they are both so far removed from the heartland of America, who could believe or even begin to question their positions.

Both of these superstars could rival Obama as far as name recognition, and they may pull in even more autograph seekers.  Is it possible that by selecting one of these candidates, I could sneak under the super-duper, double viper, radar and get my message heard???

Please help me decide by participating in the poll below.

I am the Toweler and I approve this message :o)

 

Tags: Sarah Palin, Jack Nicholson, Simon Cowell, Toweler

College Applications - Don't Make Common Mistakes

This is a Public Service Announcement :o)

Many students make mistakes on their college applications that cost them the chance to attend the school of choice.   If you want details on the source for this entry, visit www.bottomlinesecrets.com :o)

Do not write a cliched essay.  Students seem to think that colleges like essays about "how I overcame a challenge" or "what I learned working in a soup kitchen on Thanksgiving."  Students should select unique and interesting topics that they are passionate about.  Example: How you developed an interest in plasma physics, or how you taught yourself something interesting.

Using "SAT" words in application essays.  Words such as "plethora" or phrases such as "further my studies" make entrance reviewers cringe.

Failing to sent official test scores.

Overlooking the character questions.  These questions are sandwiched after the essay and before the signature, and if not answered, they may result in your application being discarded.  They are have you ever been suspended/expelled or convicted of a crime. 

Leaving race questions unanswered.  A none answer implies that you are white and are hoping to gain an answer.

Waiting until the last minute to request letters of recommendation from high school teachers.  Get ahead of the curve by getting these written at the end of your junior year.

Tags: College, Application, BottomLine

The Ant & The Grasshopper :o)

I have not included the entire details of the revised version, cause frankly, it does go a tad bit over the top <LOL>. 

 

But I do clearly see some interesting parallels between our two parties and their platforms. 

 

My thanks to my friend Lee in Florida for sending this whimsical information.

 

My kudos to whoever thought up the following modification of an old fable :o)

 

Subject: The Moral of the Story

This one is a little different.. Two Different Versions!  Two Different
Morals!

OLD VERSION: The ant works hard in the withering heat all summer long,
building his house and laying up supplies for the winter.

The grasshopper thinks the ant is a fool and laughs and dances and
plays the summer away. Come winter, the ant is warm and well fed.

The grasshopper has no food or shelter, so he dies out in the cold.

MORAL OF THE STORY: Be responsible for yourself!

-------------------------------------------

MODERN VERSION:

The ant works hard in the withering heat all summer long, building his
house and laying up supplies for the winter.

The grasshopper thinks the ant is a fool and laughs and dances and
plays the summer away.

Come winter, the shivering grasshopper calls a press conference and
demands to know why the ant should be allowed to be warm and well fed
while others are cold and starving.

CBS, NBC, PBS , CNN, and ABC show up to provide pictures of the
shivering grasshopper next to a video of the ant in his comfortable
home with a table filled with food. America is stunned by the sharp
contrast.

How can this be, that in a country of such wealth, this poor
grasshopper is allowed to suffer so?

Kermit the Frog appears on Oprah with the grasshopper, and everybody
cries when they sing, 'It's Not Easy Being Green.'

Nancy Pelosi & John Kerry exclaim in an interview with Larry King that
the ant has gotten rich off the back of the grasshopper, and both call
for an immediate tax hike on the ant to make him pay his fair share.

MORAL OF THE STORY: Be careful how you vote in 2008

Tags: Moral, Tax Hike, Pelosi, Kerry, Larry King

Happy Birthday to my Bride! :o)

 

Today is Beth's birthday, so I hope that J-Land will join me in wishing her a great day (Visit her at Nutwood Junction)!

 

We are heading to Four Winds casino tonight for dinner with some new friends (Brent and Elizabeth), and some gambling.  We are staying at a local hotel, so it will seem like a little bit of a get-a-way.  No computers allowed, so I am sure she will get in her thoughts, concerns, and opinions today :o)

 

So, what can I say about my wife?  It is hard to put into words, we are so lucky to have found each other.  We have been married for almost seven years, we still have never had an argument or a fight - and I certainly do not see that changing!!!. 

 

We are both very positive and optimistic people, and we strive to see the good in people and situations.  We work as a team, with common goals and values.  We have a plan, and we work the plan. 

 

I love my wife with all my heart!

 

 

 

My wife is my best friend!

 

My wife is my soul mate!

 

I love my wife with all my heart!

 

Happy Birthday Beth. 

 

LUWAMHHP :o)

Nice Matters :o)

Am I on a roll tonight or what <LOL>

I added another sidebar link tonight for "Nice Matters".

Again, feel free to snag.  Click on the link to go to the new site.

More importantly, if you would like to get a glimpse of the person who developed the image, then go to Ravens Lament.

Indigo, thank you for your inspiration and your "nice" image :o)  HUGS!

I Must Confess :o(

I have an admission to make.  I am using reading glasses tonight :o(

 

Over the past two weeks, I have been finding myself adjusting the distance of things that I read.  I CANNOT BELIEVE HOW FAST OCULAR DEGENERATION OCCURS.  Middle age, I despise thee, I denounce thee, I.... acknowledge thee :o)

New Sidebar Link :o)

J-Land, please take note, both Beth and I have added new sidebar links.  Please, Please, Please, feel free to snag and use.

The link is to Wildcats Lair, and we say, "dare to enter", cause if you do, you will be in danger of splitting a side from laughter.

Click the link and take a chance.

Olympics, Politics, Work, Kids, LIFE - Are you alert? :o)

Know the nine switches of alertness.

 

Alertness is the optimal, activated state of the brain when creative solutions to old problems emerge.  Alertness makes us make conscious decisions about what to pay attention to and what to screen out.  Alertness keeps us out of trouble, at work or at home.

 

There are nine switches of alertness!

 

Switch #1: Sense of danger, interest or opportunity. 

Nothing snaps you out of drowsiness faster than realizing you are in danger or have just survived a near miss.  We have all certainly been in a situation where we are driving, while we are feeling fatigued, and you get that “jerk” as your body realizes you were going into the alert mode.  The adrenaline rushes, you feel flushed, and your brain goes on full alert.  Conversely, if the situation is boring or monotonous, alertness fades. 

 

Switch #2: Muscular Activity.

Mild activity, such as taking a walk, stretching or even chewing gum [since I quit smoking more than two years ago, this is what I do while driving if I feel tired], is known to keep people awake.  Activities that are more strenuous, again, get your adrenaline pumping, and can raise your alertness for at least an hour afterward [so do not exercise in the evening].

 

Switch #3: Time of day on the circadian clock.

The biological is slow to adjust to newly imposed schedules; it could trigger alertness when you need to sleep and sleepiness when you need to stay awake.

 

Switch #4: Sleep bank balance.

How many hours since you last slept???  Sleeping makes deposits in our “sleep bank”; sustained wakefulness makes withdrawals.  When our balance is low, we become drowsy regardless of the time of day.  Get a good nights sleep for goodness sake.

 

Switch #5: Food

Alertness may be altered by food.  Heavy meals can induce drowsiness, while caffeine keeps us awake.  One of the biggest problems of using caffeine tokeep us alert is that brain chemistry rapidly adapts, so larger doses are needed to have the same effect.  Keep your daily intake constant, and only increase when you really need it.  See Switch #2 for other options for short term remedies.

 

Switch #6: Light

We should take our cues from restaurants.  In expensive restaurants, the lights are low and the pace is slow, we linger and spend more.  Fast-food restaurants are brightly lit, encouraging fast eating and fast departure.  Light is a good way to suppress sleepiness and keep us active.

 

Switch #7: Temperature

Cool air, especially on the face rouses one from a sleepy state.  Heat has the opposite effect.  When was the last time you felt drowsy when you were shivering :o)

 

Switch #8: Sound

Invigorating or lulling.  Rolling surf or the sound of a mountain stream is so relaxing that these sounds are electronically simulated in the white noise machines that many people use in bedrooms.  This type of white noise is especially troublesome in work situations because we do not tolerate intruding noises.  Conversely, irregular or variable sound, such as the intermittent creaking of a door in the middle of the night, keeps us awake.

 

Switch #9: Aroma and comfort

Certain aromas, such as peppermint, make people more alert.  To be fully alert, one needs to be a little uncomfortable, especially in the wee hours of the morning.  So we need to be careful in making our work areas or our automobiles too sterile.

 

Know how to combat drowsiness.  Stay Alert!

Science Scene - Shark Tales (Fins Actually :o)

 

This entry is about the plight of the shark.  Globally, sharks are in trouble.  These animals date from prehistoric times, and so, as goes the shark, so goes our Mother Earth. 

 

Up to 70 million are killed annually - sometimes for food, sometimes as by-catch (for our unsustainable global fishing industry), and sometimes just for their fins, a commodity used in soup.

 

Sharks are generally slow-growing, slow-reproducing top predators, so the intensive harvesting is clearly unsustainable.  Already, their high prices reflect their scarcity.

 

The Nature Conservancy, an organization that I have belonged to for more than 20 years, believes that if we can figure out where sharks go to breed and feed, we can design better ways to manage and protect them.  So, click this link to the Nature Conservancy, and become involved in their efforts to balance conservation with the realities of our global economy.

Tags: Sharks, Fins, Nature Conservancy

Ghost Deer <woooooooooo> :o)

 

While not a bright picture, I decided to post this one anyway.

 

The lame little flash at the top of my new SLR camera went off,

but it produced an unexpected result.

 

The setting was dusk, the place was the backyard at Nutwood Junction,

and the subject was a white-tailed deer (one of a band of at least nine).

 

The flash was just enough to produce a shine off of the eyes.

 

This went from a questionable picture to one that I really like, and hope that you do as well.

 

I had one-on-one meetings with my employees today, and they had this same "deer in the headlights look" when I asked them, so what to you think of your performance over the past month.  They are so used to getting talked to, that they were shocked to get asked their perspective.  Nice to know I can still shock and surprise occassionally :o)

 

I hope you are having a great week!

Tags: Deer, Ghost, Performance

Family & Friends Tour - San Diego

Alas, this is the last entry for our Friends & Family Tour.  Hope you enjoyed our little journey :o)

 

 

I mentioned previously that I would post some pictures from our Friends and Family Tour.

 

 

This is a picture from Shelter Island, in the San Diego Bay, looking back at the mainland.

 

 

We loved all the boats, and the relative seclusion in the harbor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I could not resist taking this picture, first, we love the T.V. show "The Office", and second, how hard would this setting be to be your place of work.  As MasterCard says, "Priceless".

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last, to the right, is my favorite picture of the trip.  This is a picture of my Brother and his son.  The picture does not do either of them true justice; my brother is 6'-4" tall, and his son has Tattoos from his neck to his ankles.  During our lunch, my nephew's friend mentioned some friends who had Tattoos of their children's feet on their own feet, and he thought this was a great idea.  He has already reserved his back for his married family.  While this sounds strange, he is absolutely a great young man, and we finally have his address and contact information.  We have marvelled at what a wonderful person he is, even though first impressions can be deceiving.

Campaign Corner - Senator Kennedy

As we sit here piddling in J-Land, we have CNN on for the Democratic National Convention (DNC).  Whether you are a fan or not, Ted Kennedy has been in the senate for the third longest in history.  He is an American Icon, and with his recent brain tumor situation, I say, "Hats Off to You Senator."  He has earned our respect if nothing else.

Tags: Senator Kennedy

Friends & Family Tour - Lopez Lake

 

Is this a beautiful setting or what?

 

During our Friends and Family Tour, we headed to central California.

 

Our great friends Kim and Steve have taken up fishing, using only lures, and we had the chance to spend the day with them on Lopez Lake.  If you read Beth's previous entry, you will see that we also got to see a Black Bear. 

 

Steve gave me a few lessons in fishing.  We took the boat out on the lake first while the Ladies visited on the beach.  We trolled around some inlets, casting out to the shore and around some trees at the edge of the water (this is where the fitches like to hang out <LOL>), and even did some shore fishing while the wives were out touring the lake. 

 

So, what were the results???

 

 

 

First, let me say, that I am absolutely hooked (pun intended <LMAO>)

on lure fishing.  We had a great time talking and fishing.

 

While we did not have a lot of luck on the boat, the shore fishing was

a little different.  To the left is a picture of the "big" catch I had for the day :o)

 

Impressive huh???

 

It was a slow day for fishing, but we had a lot of fun.

Tags: Lure Fishing, Lake Lopez, Central California, Black Bear

Book Review - Obama Nation

Time Magazine includes a book review in the Briefing section every week.  The September 1, 2008, issue provides a review of The Obama Nation. 

This is one that I will not be reading.  It is written by Jerome Corsi, who also wrote Unfit for Command: Swift Boat Veterans Speak Out Against John Kerry.  These types of books only muddy the water, and result in a perpetuation of negative campaigning.  Also, instead of campaigning on facts, time must be spent responding to innuendo and inaccuracies, lest a lack of response be construed as an admission of fact.

The review indicates this is a poor attempt to cash in on his previous success, and a slapdash of information, with many inaccuracies (eight factual errors in the first 50 pages).

I think the following quote pretty much sums it up "Obama Nation may be most useful for readers convinced Obama is secretly a radical leftist Muslim smoker; they may find the book comforting, like reading a Wikipedia entry summarizing everything they have read before."

Tags: Obama Nation, Time Magazine, Corsi

The Toweler VP Selection, It is up to YOU :o)

As you may know, on Thursday, August 21, I declared my candidacy.  As my bride and best friend Beth so eloquently stated: "He's had it with the sniping and grousing, the negativity, the lies, and the idiocy.  He can no longer stomach the constant arguments, the endless debates about finances, and the never-ending discussion of who is smarter than who (although it's quite obvious).   He has chosen to take matters into his own hands and has made a decision that I am proud to support. I give him 100% of my backing, and I have committed to working tirelessly on behalf of the endeavor he has chosen. "

 

Here is my predicament J-Land.  In order to have a chance against the Obama and the McCain, I need to pick my running mate carefully.  I thought seriously about Extra Arm, but felt that her checkered past could cause me problems.  The Kitty clan (Sheeba and Briege) presented interesting options, but in the end, their lifestyles would be a hindrance (mices executions, extreme nippiness, and a tendency to do what ever the F*#@ they want :o).  My top five selections for a Vice Presidential running mate are presented below, as well as my own credentials.  Please vote in the poll, or present your own choices with an explanation as a comment.  Your support and thoughts for this important decision are greatly appreciated.   

 

Tony Soprano:  The head of the family, and a tough food critic, he has to be part of any short list.  To NOT consider him could be a career ending decision.

 

Jack Sparrow's Father:  Keith Richards played this part wickedly, and with his pirate connections, he could bring some foreign policy credentials.

 

Simon Cowell: A man not afraid to speak his mind, and a terrific judge of vocals and potential, his feedback is rarely ignored.

 

Jack Nicholson: While potentially beyond his prime, his past experience cannot be questioned, and he also has an unquestioned golf swing and wit about him.

 

The Donald: A man of money, but unprecedented success and connections, not to mention an awesome helicopter and multiple golf courses, he would be a worthy "Apprentice".

 

 

Ken "The Toweler" R.

 

Born in 1962, blond hair, blue eyes.

 

Known to tease others into laughter. Powerful golf swing considered by all to be intimidating. Some have called him a tyrant with a nine-iron.  

 

Powerful organizational and financial skills have resulted in a position of leadership within the Family; his advice is considered to be sound, but he values excellence in return. Often distracts victims by juggling objects at hand; as they follow the objects intently, he will launch the objects (apples, tennis balls, etc.) at a high rate of speed towards their upper body. Depending on the object, serious injury can result. (It has been documented that a member of a rival organization was hospitalized after receiving three golf balls to the head.)

 

Signature move: tortures victims with repeated towel-snaps to the torso and buttocks. While not confirmed, it is believed that he induced a coma in a man by using a heavy-duty cotton beach towel. The circumstances are not completely known, but most seem to believe that the man had seriously violated safety standards at what the Family calls "The Plant."

 

The Toweler is considered seriously outspoken. If you encounter him, do not attempt to approach him, unless you wish simply to chat. Caution is advised due to extreme sarcasm, teasing comments, and a variety of voices. All newcomers are advised to maintain a minimum of a 3-foot distance, which is considered toweling range.

aoljpollCreated, aoljpollCreated_1

Obama Selects Biden - Upton Made the Call :o)

On July 3, I made an entry entitled Congressional Perspective II, where Congressman Upton from Michigan predicted that Biden would be Obama's running mate.  So, kudos to you Fred on your perspective, and we look forward to see if you get a twofer when McCain makes his selection [Fred predicted Tom Ridge from PA] :o)

Tags: McCain, Biden, McCain, Tom Ridge, running mate

Rhythmic Gymnastics :o(

Here is a clip of Rhythmic Gymnastics.  While these women are very flexible and artistic, this is one event that just has not captured me.  What to you think, vote below:

 

Tags: Olympics, Rhythmic Gymnastics

Airport Happenings :o)

 

As our Family and Friends Tour ended on August 11, we headed to the Los Angeles Airport.  We made great time with the traffic not being bad, and being able to use the carpool lane (two or more riders, all the time, in CA).

 

So, we had plenty of time for a spot of breakfast.  We found a Route 66 themed cafe.  We had a nice breakfast and a Bloody Mary to toast the end of a great ten day excursion.

 

Behind me was this sign, we thought about trying to order one, but I think we could just print and put it in a cheap frame just as easy.  This is definitely going into the double bay spot of our garage where Slick and Blacky are parked (the third single bay is where Blue rests :o)

 

 

 

 

In Minneapolis, when we reached our gate, there were several of these cute little fellas in the window on the outside, which enabled me to get a great shot.  With a quick glance, you get the full silhouette effect.  But if you look at the detail a little closer, you can see the hairy legs (it is even more pronounced on a larger version).  As you look at this picture, can't you feel the little legs moving up the back of your neck (shiver <LOL> :o)

Tags: LA Airport, Minneapolis Airport, Spider

Olympic Update!!!

USA WaterPolo Team to PLAY FOR THE GOLD (see previous entry).   How cool to have seen Jeff Powers score a goal on the way to the gold medal match.

O.K. - Time for a Bucko Comment :o)  Have you happened to notice how the U.S. WaterPolo coach looks like a young "Indiana Jones?"  Beth was doing the Da-Da-Da-Dun-Dun-Dun music. 

Holy Moly - How Cool!

Olympic Moment - Men's Waterpolo :o)

 

The following article came from our internal company Web-site today.  I used to work with Mr. Powers at PG&E in California in the 1990's, and most recently at AEP since 1999.  He is in our Corporate office now, but it is still cool to have such a personal connection.  Go Team USA!

BEIJING -- The U.S. Olympic water polo team, including Jeff Powers, son of Bob Powers, president - AEP Utilities, will play Friday against Serbia, the only team to defeat them in Olympic play. The winner of Friday's semifinal match will move on to the gold medal round on Saturday.

The U.S. team defeated Germany 8-7 on Monday, helped by two goals from Powers. With the win, the team won their group with a 4-1 record, having also defeated China (8-4), Italy (12-11), and Croatia (7-5) and losing only to Serbia (4-2) in preliminary rounds. By winning their group, the U.S. men got a bye in the quarterfinals.

In medal round play, Team USA will play Serbia at 7:40 p.m. Friday Beijing time (7:40 a.m. Eastern time). Serbia defeated Spain 9-5 in the quarterfinals on Wednesday. Other teams in the medal round are Hungary and Montenegro.

Powers, 28, a 6-foot-7-inch, 235-pound defender, has five goals and three blocked shots in five games in the Beijing Olympics. He is playing in his second Olympics with the team, also competing in the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece. A first-team All-American and a 2003 graduate of University of California - Irvine, he has been playing nationally and internationally since 1999.

The team has entered the medal round for the first time since the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, Spain, and are looking to win a team medal for the first time since the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, South Korea.

Tags: Olympics, WaterPolo, AEP, PG&E

I AM FED UP!!!

J-Land, I HAVE HAD IT.  I have decided to run for President.  To join my campaign, please click here.

 

Confused by the Toweler references, click here.

My sincere thanks to Joyce at My Extremely Simple Life for giving me one of the best laughs I have had in ages.  Thank you.

Midwest Lights

 

One of the things I love about traveling through O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, is the tunnel that connects the B and C terminals.  This tunnel is at least 15 years old, but I still love the neon lights. 

 

Imagine this if you will, you descend from the brightness of a glass terminal with bright sunshine illuminating all the glass and chrome, and descending via the escalator into the initial quiet of the darkened tunnel.  As you descend, the soft edges of a new age song tickle your inner ear.  You feel a calm wash over you. 

 

 

How disappointing, as I was trying to paint this picture in your mind, I got stumped at something that sounds better than "ear hairs".  I had to settle for inner ear, but it just kind of deflated me when we could not find a name for the ear hairs (inner, not the old man ones that I grow on the outside <LOL>)

 

My work here is done :o)

Tags: O'hare, Lights, Ears

Faux Kiss

 

OK, I could not resist.  Kitty Kiss to the left, while a excellent faux "Kiss" imitation, is not the subject of this entry.  Warning: this entry has a graphic element to it!  Beth and I warned you, we have a warped sense of humor :o)

 

As Beth and I have watched the Olympics, especially the gymnastics, we could not help but notice the difference in the team dynamics between the men's and women's teams.  The men are all high-fives, bumping, and such; while the women are all about Faux Kisses.   

 

 

The picture to the right has the "Mwha, Mwha" perspective of the faux kiss.  My comment to Beth was that when you see their faces, you expect to see them with razor blades clenched in their teeth, slashing as they make their faux kissing motions <squirt, squirt, squirt sounds here>.  The emotions are not genuine, and by the look in their eyes, they would rather be slashing than kissing.

 

I much prefer to see genuine emotion.  I am normally fairly calm, but I have to admit that  I do wear my emotions on my sleeve, maybe I need to get a third arm <LOL>.

 

Until my next entry, the "Toweler" has signed out :o)

 

Confused by the third arm and Toweler references, click here.

Tags: Kiss, Faux, emotions, gymnastics

Campaign Corner - Public Sentiment

A quote I recently came across from Abraham Lincoln states "Public Sentiment is everything.  With public sentiment, nothing can fail; without it, nothing can succeed."  As we count down to the election, please keep the need for public sentiment in mind. 

There is criticism that Obama is being treated as a celebrity, getting ready to make a speech at the Democratic National Convention at the Mile High Stadium (Invesco Field), in front of 76,000+ people.  When was the last time we had a candidate capable of drawing these types of crowds, irregardless if you agree with his message or not.

On the flip side, McCain has the Hollywood celebrity status wrapped up with appearances in the Wedding Crashers, and episode of "24", and countless late-night shows. 

Both candidates have released negative ads treating these celebrity situations as political insults.

With the approval rating for the President and the Democratic Congress at near historic lows, I think it is time for a Public Sentiment candidate.  Based on the last two administrations (Clinton/Bush), our political process has become uber-politicized.  So, it would be great if we could find a way to stop the negativity, and have one of these two "change" candidates actually follow through and bring both sides of the aisle together.

I look forward to watching both conventions to see if "change" is truly in the air :o)

Tags: Obama, McCain, Change, Political Sentiment, Abraham Lincoln

Heavenly Shower :o)

First and foremost, I am home safe and sound.  Glad to see my bride and the kitty critter.  However, I have to admit, I will miss the shower at the Westin Tabor Center in Denver, CO. 

I was amazed when I got into the shower for the first time, it had dual heads, both with adjusters for either spray or massage.  So, I sprayed and then massaged :o)

Happy Hump Day :o)

Tags: Shower, Westin, Denver

Conservative Capitalism

This entry inspired by August 11, 2008 Time Magazine

 

Bill Gates, a multi-billionaire, penned an article for Time Magazine.  So, after this 30-year business mogul made his mark, and committed his fortune to philanthropy, he embraces “conservative capitalism.”  So while I applaud his sentiment and philosophy, I abhor his timing and newfound holier than I perspective.

 

Creative Conservatism is not some big new economic theory.  It is an answer to “How can we most effectively spread the benefits of capitalism and the huge improvements in quality of life it can provide to people who have been left out?”  To bolster the fact that this is not something new, in 1889, Andrew Carnegie, the richest man of the day, writes that he believes that millionaires ought to act as trustees for the poor and that man should feed capitalism by giving it away.  Carnegie established institutions such as libraries, parks and universities – that help people better themselves.

 

Conservative capitalism is not an answer to the short-term ups and downs of the economic cycle.  It’s a response to the longer-term fact that too many people are missing out on a historic, century-long improvement in the quality of life.  The feeling that in general the world is getting better is supported by the general views (perception?) that life expectancy has increased, more people vote in elections, and they enjoy economic freedom and express their views.  The problem is, it’s not getting better fast enough, and it is not getting better for everyone. 

 

Today, one billion people live on less than a dollar a day :o(

 

In 1970, Milton Friedman argued that a firm’s duty is to its shareholders. 

 

Capitalism harnesses self-interest in a helpful and sustainable way but only on those who can pay.  Government aid and philanthropy channel our caring for those who can’t pay. 

 

The improvements will happen faster and last longer if we can channel market forces to complement what governments and nonprofits do. 

 

So where do we go today?  It’s about giving companies a real incentive to apply their expertise in new ways, making it possible to earn a return while serving the people who have been left out.  This can happen in two ways: companies can find these opportunities on their own, or governments and nonprofits can help create such opportunities where they presently do not exist.

 

The premise is that companies can profit by providing heavily discounted access to products (especially software and pharmaceuticals) that have low production costs, so companies can come out ahead by selling product for a bigger profit in rich markets and for a smaller profit (or at cost) in poor ones.  The other option is to benefit from public recognition from enhanced reputation that come from serving those that cannot pay.  The objective is for companies to be drawn into a good cause.

Tags: Conservative, Capitalism, Bill Gates

National Guard - Public Affairs

How cool, today, we had a Lt. Colonel from the national guard, on rotation to Washington D.C., originally from Alaska, as one of the presenters.  The National Guard is essential to emergency response - providing live preservation, restoring order, providing communications, and providing government continuity.

One thing I have not had a chance to investigate is that they have a State Partnership program in place, and Indiana is partnered with Serbia.  If you want to see who your state partners with, go to www.ngb.army.mil and check it out. 

One interesting thing to learn, especially as we hear how stretched our Title-10 troops (that is regular army) are, is that our National Guard process ensures that at least 50% of each states reserve is not committed.  We have rarely committed more than 15% of our guard units to overseas commitments.  So, while our combat units are stretched thin, know that we have ample resources at home to protect states and/or for disaster recovery.

Our presenter is involved in Public Affairs, and his quote is "Go Ugly Early - Bad News Does Not Get Better With Time."  I think this has many parallels in every day life :o)

Tags: National Guard, Indiana, Public Affairs

Campaign Corner - Recession Election

Inspired by the August 11, 2008 edition of Time Magazine.

 

Consumer confidence is at an all-time low, and many Americans are struggling to avert foreclosure as they pay $4 a gallon for gasoline.  The economy has become center stage in this election.  With the budget deficit next fiscal year (starts in October) estimated to be $482 billion, where do the candidates stand?

 

On July 7, John McCain promised to balance the federal budget, sort of.  His plan is to achieve balance by cutting spending, but he is fixated on cutting earmarks, which would only net about $20 million per year.

 

On July 28, Barack Obama held an economic summit with his advisors.  Obama isn’t even pretending to balance the budget.  His claim to pay for the things he proposes rests on controversial issues like raising taxes and closing corporate loopholes.

 

Our government, Republicans and Democrats, while both had control of the presidency and congress, have let our infrastructure languish for 20 years.  We need new pipes, wires, asphalt, bridges, power plants, and radar.  The American Society of Civil Engineers estimates that we’re going to have to spend $1.6 trillion over the next 5-10 years.

 

McCain has acknowledged some of these issues, especially energy policy, but he does not seem to have a comprehensive strategy.  McCain does support a cap-and-trade program to limit carbon emissions, even though this is considered a carbon “tax” by many.  McCain was also opposed to the farm bill (which Obama supported) demonstrating a commitment to free trade.  As far as other infrastructure improvements, McCain has not provided a vision.

 

Obama’s reliance on government sponsored solutions has risk as this philosophy has proven to be less efficient than the market in figuring out the most effective new technologies.  A long term program at $21 billion per year for the next ten years would help improve infrastructure, has limited inflationary risk (assuming the Iraq war $10 billion per year cost can be reduced), and would provide limited jobs and infrastructure improvements.

 

In the end, as a nation, we are going to have to get back to fiscal responsibility if we are to keep our great country moving forward. 

Denver Arrival :o)

Pretty uneventful trip to the Mile High city.  Flights were on time, and having only carry on luggage made it pretty easy.  Worst part of the trip was the SupperShuttle van ride from the remote DIA (Denver International Airport).  DIA is one of the newest airports (replaced one that was closer to the city). 

The van had 10 passengers, and I was the last drop (almost 90 minutes later).  The hotel is right down town, only a few blocks from the convention center, which will be hopping in a week when the DNC is in town.  There are already T-shirt stands set up.

Quiet night, iron the clothes, get some room service, watch some Olympics, and do some "surfing".

Hope your weekend was grand and that you slide into the new week with gusto :o)

Denver Bound

I had a chuckle this morning when I was getting caught up on a few journals and e-mail.  I had a funny Garfield strip from Joyce at My Extremely Simple Life, and read an entry from Lori at Dusty Pages, both of which dealt with the "morning".  I chuckled because both Joyce and Lori talk about how they need their time and coffee in the morning.  That is how I am as well, I even have a little statue on my desk at work that one of my previous interns gave me that says "Beware of Ken Until He's Had His Morning Coffee" :o)

So my day started with my weekend routine of coffee (piping hot due to the automatic timer), and the paper.  Then I got caught up on J-Land.  As I was doing these activities, I was also reviewing my schedule and activities to make sure I could get everything done without rushing. 

I am heading to Denver this afternoon for a Pandemic Planning Workshop.  The participants will be the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI), and nuclear power plant Business Continuity Coordinators (BCC's).  I fall into the last category.  Power plants are considered a critical infrastructure, and therefore, we are working to make sure we have a coordinated plan in place for a Pandemic (it is a matter of when, not if).  To get an idea of why this is important, head over to Nutwood Junction for a description of the "Black Death", circa 1348-1351.

So after getting caught up on J-Land, I laid out my packing (I can get by with my laptop bag and a carry-on), and mowed the lawn.  I planned well enough to be able to make a few entries also :o).  Now it is off to the showers.

Assuming they have high-speed internet available, I will check in with you all later.  I will be returning home late Tuesday night, so am taking Wednesday off (hoping to get a client meeting at the local golf course with our insurance agent). 

Have a great Sunday :o)

Tags: Denver, Pandemic, NRC, CDC, DHS, NEI

Friends & Family Tour - Steve's Classroom

As we mentioned during our Vegecation entries, we headed up to the Central Coast of California to visit our great friends, Steve and Kim.  Below are some pictures I took of my bud Steve during the afternoon we arrived (we got their earlier than they expected, and both had a few errands to run).  As a matter of fact, I was buying some cool amber beverage at the grocery store, and I heard a "Ken, how you doing?"  I looked over at the other checkout lane, and there was Steve, doing a little last minute shopping prior to - or during <LOL> our arrival.  Steve is a middle school science teacher, and he keeps a variety of reptiles in his classroom.  Our mission, which I chose to accept, was to get some crickets for the salamander & frog, some mice for the smaller snakes, and a rat for the bigger boa.  It was cool to see him feed them, but gruesome at the same time.  WARNING, SOME OF THESE PICTURES ARE GRAPHIC !!!

 

 

In order of appearance (Thanks Kim):

Gecko is Gieco

Golden Tree Frog is Goldie

Gopher snake is Buddha

Red Tail Boa (the big boy) is Red

Rosy Boa (even though this one isn't rosy) is Azul (blue)

King snake is, well, Elvis!

If you look closely to the very middle picture (bowl of boa :o), you can see the rat hiding in the corner.  Snakes eat/attack based on movement, so as long as the "little rat" is not moving, then it is safe.

The last picture is of my great friend Steve, with one of his cold blooded creatures :o)

 

Tags: Reptiles, Jr. High School

Friends & Family Tour - Summerland

As promised, this is the first of multiple entries that include pictures from our Friends & Family Tour, California Vegecation.  Enjoy.

 

Friends & Family Tour - Summerland. 

 

As Beth wrote about during our Friends & Family Tour, we stopped off on our drive up to central California in Summerland (link to her entry here Summerland). 

 

The car seen at the picture to the left is the convertible we rented (note, put on sunscreen if you are going to be driving for 4+ hours <LOL>, I am still peeling). 

 

At the right is the picture of the brave Seagull that we witnessed stealing food out of the busboy's bin at a nearby table.

 

More entries and pictures in the days to follow :o)

 

Tags: Summerland

Generation "Why"

Workers under the age of 29 that have grown up in the Internet Age are skilled at multi-tasking, but may need reminders on when it is appropriate to concentrate on a single activity, particularly if it relates to public safety (medicine, airlines, nuclear, etc.). 

 

These young workers desire to learn and take on a variety of tasks.  They are not just linear thinkers, you can give them multiple projects to work on, and they will be enthralled.  While this is a great skill, if you are in the cockpit, or the control room of an industrial facility, 100% attention is required, and the disconnection from the Internet can be a problem for this Generation Y (born in the 1980s and 1990s).

 

Today’s young workers are technologically savvy and eager to embrace the latest gadgets.  Again, as we move forward to increase efficiency and communication, this can be a double-edged sword.  The reliance on instant messaging versus e-mail can create communication and documentation problems.  E-mail is not fast enough for this generation, they seek instant response and feedback.  On the flip side, this generation will embrace spreadsheets, databases, and web-based applications.

 

How do you tap this – allow them to create better tools, automate processes, and request them to mentor their less technological co-workers (this makes mentoring a two way endeavor, knowledge to the younger generation, and technological savvy to the older generation).  They need to have opportunities to learn and grow, to move around and learn new things.  This is the “why” generation, so make sure that you explain to them how their activities fit into the big picture.

 

What else is important to this generation?  A competitive salary is the ticket to the dance, but once on the dance floor, younger workers expect a balance between their work and personal life.  They appreciate flexible work schedules and want to have time to make a contribution to society outside of work (they definitely volunteer more and want to make a contribution to the betterment of the world).

 

Inspired from August 14, 2008 edition of Nucleonics Week, a McGraw Hill Publication. 

Tags: Generation Y, Flexible Time, Volunteer, blogplugs

Olympic Badminton :o)

 

One of the sports that we were really hoping to see during these summer games was Badminton.  Today, we got to see the womens gold medal competition, China vs. China.  It is something to watch.  Zhang Ning wins!  During the match, the announcer mentioned that the shuttlecock "Lands like a butterfly with sore feet".  What a great quote!

 

We are hoping to catch some table tennis as well.  I know when I was in college, we got to the point in the dorm common area where we played 10-15 feet from the table, close to the table by Olympic Standards :o)

 

BEIJING (AP) Defending champion Zhang Ning of China has won the gold medal in women's singles in the Olympic badminton tournament, defeating Xie Xingfang in three sets.

Tags: Olympics, Badminiton, Zhang Ning, Table Tennis

Olympic Antics :o)

We certainly do love our Olympic Games!

Whether it be the winter or the summer ones, it makes no difference to us.  As long as the sport is pure, the politics is absent or silent, and the judging is fair, it can't be any better for us [except that we have started saving for the 2016 summer games, whether they are in Chicago, or elsewhere, we will be there :o)]

As you may have figured out by now, Beth and I have a unique sense of humor, and we crack each other up when the Olympic anthem plays.  We alternate between the drums, the arm raising celebrations, and what I have started to call semaphore (a combo of the two, "tanks Beth for the spell assist :o). 

Between the jet lag from coming back from Sunny CA, and watching the Olympics, I have not been to bed before 1:00 A.M., this week (Men's team, Woman's team, then Men's all-around, and last night Women's all-around).  But I am managing, and more importantly, enjoying the games [I have four more years to sleep <<LOL>>].

The swimming ends tomorrow, but just now, Phelps won his 7th Gold (1/100th of a second), tie with Spitz, and a chance for the best Olympics ever tomorrow in the medley.  UNBELIEVABLE.

Tags: Olympics, Phelps, UNBELIEVABLE

The Amazing Benefits of Journaling :o)

This entry is paraphrased from the August 15, 2008 edition of “Bottom Line Personal” and is based on an interview with Kathleen Adams, director of Center for Journal Therapy.

 

First, some Bucko commentary.  I know some people who have been through counseling, or as I recently wrote about a co-worker who had some difficulty with another co-worker, “Unsent Letters” or other forms of writing and expressing your feelings was been recommended.  Certainly, this is a good forum, but alas, some people have so much pent up anger, that this is not enough of an outlet, and they cannot resist the urge to lash out.  Venting can be healthy, but if you cannot vent without lashing out, then all you accomplish is to make yourself look foolish.  As I have written many times here in my journal, we find J-Land to be a very positive place, and we resist the urge to be negative or to lash out.  Please note that, just as this entry demonstrates, this does not prevent us from expressing our opinions.  So, without further ado, here is a paraphrase of the article.  My thoughts are shown in red.

 

“Writing in a journal is not just a way to keep track of daily life – it actually can make you happier, more successful, even healthier.  Example: A study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association found that writing about stressful experiences in a journal relieves stress and thus increases the body’s immune response, reducing the impact of chronic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and asthma.”  The article does produce a trap statement – “People who write only about difficult life circumstances in their journals sometimes find that the process makes them feel worse, not better.”  My advice is to make sure that you balance positives and negatives as you write your journal, talking about pleasurable events or thoughts can only bring a smile to your face and positive endorphins into your system :o)

 

The article documents seven effective journaling strategies:

 

1.                 Unsent Letters: useful if you are angry or unhappy with someone in your life.  Useless if you write and deliver the message!

2.                 The Five Minute Sprint: useful if you feel stressed or overwhelmed.  This should actually help you feel more organized and in control.

3.                 Listing: useful if you suffer from depression or low self-esteem or are feeling overwhelmed.  This requires you to identify things you are thankful for or that bring you pleasure :o)

4.                 Emotional Release: useful if you feel that you have not recovered from an emotionally difficult or stressful event in your past.  Unfortunately, some people find the need to use this method in J-Land, when the method is actually designed to be private.  The intent is to leave the baggage behind you, not to make it available to the public.

5.                 Dialogue: useful if you are interested in improving your relationships.  This is definitely how Beth and I use J-Land :o)

6.                 Weight Control: useful if you are trying to lose weight.  This deals with documenting the calories you consume, your feelings and awareness, and your habits.

7.                 Captured Moments: useful if you feel stressed, anxious, or depressed.  For this “useful” description, I take umbrage.  I think that a Captured Moment is an opportunity to share joy and pleasantness, again, something that this J-Land Duo endeavor for each and every day :o)

 

Disclaimer: this was a paraphrase of an article that I read.  If you feel any anxiety, please consider that this is not directed toward you.  As I have said, our J-Land community, for the most part, finds the positives in each of the seven journaling strategies.  So, in honor of the AOL Journals anniversary [click here to go to Magic Smoke], this is my contribution to our J-Land Community.

Tags: blogplugs, journaling, anger, stress, overwhelmed