Random Facts Friday: December 16, 2011

We are heading in to the last weekend before Christmas.
Taking off any days next week?
Hope you have a good holiday!
Here are some random facts when you need to catch your breath and relax...

1. I live in Ohio and was happy to find out that John Heisman who coached football in the late 1800's and early 1900's, got his start in college football at Oberlin College in Ohio. The Heisman Trophy is named after him.

2. The winter solstice can occur between December 20 and 23rd. The last December 23 solstice occurred in 1903 and will not occur again until the year 2303. A December 20 solstice has occurred very rarely, with the next one occurring in the year 2080.

3. The seasons do not have the same amount of days because of the earth's elliptical orbit. Spring lasts 92.8 days, Summer is 93.6 days long, Fall is around for 89.8 days, and Winter is with us for 89.0 days.

4. Christmas Eve, 1907, has the first telecast over a wireless radio. Reginald Fessenden began reciting: “And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed…” After reading the Christmas story, he picked up his violin and played “O Holy Night”, the first song ever played over the radio.

5. Caramel Corn. Can you not think of anything better around the holidays? I got this from Allrecipes.com and the submitter said they got the recipe from an Amish family. They give the Caramel Corn as a gift around Christmas time to friends and neighbors.

• 7 quarts plain popped popcorn
• 2 cups dry roasted peanuts (optional)
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup margarine
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Place the popped popcorn into two shallow greased baking pans. You may use roasting pans, jelly roll pans, or disposable roasting pans. Add the peanuts to the popped corn if using. Set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C). Combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, margarine and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring enough to blend. Once the mixture begins to boil, boil for 5 minutes while stirring constantly.
3. Remove from the heat, and stir in the baking soda and vanilla. The mixture will be light and foamy. Immediately pour over the popcorn in the pans, and stir to coat. Don't worry too much at this point about getting all of the corn coated.
4. Bake for 1 hour, removing the pans, and giving them each a good stir every 15 minutes. Line the counter top with waxed paper. Dump the corn out onto the waxed paper and separate the pieces. Allow to cool completely, then store in airtight containers or resealable bags.

Working Wednesday: Doing Business within China and other countries

Last week I attended a seminar with speakers from the U.S. Department of Commerce. They have a U.S. Commercial Service and more specifically, The China Business Information Center. You may want to visit their website, export.gov/china. They have information on the basic first steps; qualified buyers and distributors; laws, regulations, and customs; and market research.

The Commercial Service has offices in 78 countries, all listed on the website. Besides the web, the Commercial Service can be contacted at 800-USA-TRADE (800-872-8723). These countries represent more than 90% of the world's market for exports. The Commercial Service international offices generated $18.3 billion in exports for U.S. companies and their domestic offices facilitated $5.8 billion in U.S. export sales during fiscal year 2010.

Roberta Ford, who is the Director of the Commercial Service office in Columbus said that Ohio has seen a 21% increase in exporting to China, placing Ohio 10th in the nation. There are 6 offices in Ohio: Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, and Dayton.

She reminded the audience that 95% of the consumers in the world live outside of the U.S. The Commercial Service will have 25-30 trade shows throughout the U.S. per year. These will be listed on the website. Also, see http://www.trade.gov/cs/states/csinyourstate.asp and click on Ohio. You will see events coming up, such as the conference in March in Cincinnati.

There is a National Export Initiative under the U.S. Small Business Administration that wants to double U.S. exports by 2015. Ohio has partnered with SBA to create the Ohio International Market Access Grant for Exporters (IMAGE). Funding is available to help small business market at the international level such as participating in an international trade show, funding for services provided by Commercial Service, and defraying some costs related to a trade mission. See www.IMAGE.development.ohio.gov or contact their office at 614-466-5017 for more details. The Ohio Department of Development's Office of Export Assistance may also be of assistance to you.

Alone in the Car: Religious Holidays and Public Education

For my regular readers, you know I mentioned in my last "Alone in the Car" blog these statistics: 78.4 % of Americans are Christian, 1.7% are Jewish, .7% are Buddhist, .6% are Muslim, .4% are Hindu, and less than .3% are Native American in terms of their religious affiliation taken from a Pew survey.

Through a variety of gathering information means, reports are showing that elementary school principals  are banning anything directly or indirectly related to Christmas, a Christian holiday held in December, but allowing the study of Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, and other religious holidays. Clearly, the majority of this country is Christian.

The study of cultures is fascinating. I fully support such research. Religion is part of a culture, and in an elementary school setting should be approached as objectively as possible--what I term an "encyclopedia" or "reference room" library definition.

I myself have taken my children (during their younger years) to visit different churches/religions other than our own for several purposes: 1) to learn from the people who practice that religion the tenets of said religion and 2) to learn to show respect to people from faiths other than our own. This has given them a wide variety of experiences including meeting with denominations within Christianity to the Hindu religion.

If religion is going to be part of the curriculum, which I think it should be--it is a major influence within any culture--then All religions should be given the same time, objectivity, respect, and honor they deserve. A principal is not the one to make the call on which religion can be studied. It should be All religions or None. I hope "none" is not the choice. Culture is part of partnership, whether it be in our communities, on a business level, keeping our country safe, or having a world at peace so great minds can put their energies on solving real challenges. We need to understand one another to work things out and that means taking time to get to know the whole person sitting across the table. Relationships will then follow.

Random Facts Friday: December 9, 2011

 It is a great time of the year, but it can be busy!
Take a breath, "rest your oars" and relax with these random facts.

1. The first time the term "First Lady" was used to describe the woman who lived in the White House was Dolley Madison. Zachary Taylor said it in his eulogy at her funeral.

2. Cover Up: You can loose up to 60% of your body temperature while getting a massage if you are not under blankets.

3. Peter Robbins was 9 years old when he did the voice over for Charlie Brown in "A Charlie Brown Christmas" cartoon special in 1965. His salary was $125.00.

4. James Edgar is credited with being the first department store Santa in a store he owned in Brockton, Massachusetts in 1890. He decided the North Pole was too far away--children needed to see Santa. James fashioned his costumed after drawings from famed cartoonist Thomas Nash.

5. Recipe: Homemade gifts come straight from the heart. Try these recipes for clay ornaments to slime to homemade silly putty found on this website: http://opossumsal.homestead.com/clay.html

Working Wednesday: Broadband Cable strengthened in rural Ohio

Let's face it, without high speed internet any size business can't compete in this local, state, national, or global economy. They need to sell their products and services at competitive prices. Agribusiness can change daily and the slow modem means of communication may mean the loss of income for those selling their crops, etc. Some businesses, antique dealers for example, saw the exact opposite. Some items once thought unusual can easily be found thanks to the internet. In either case, speed is everything.
And it affects the small business owner twice--they may be too far away and it may cost too much since there are only a few customers in the area.

In a news article from Columbus Business First, OARnet, is partnering with 3 cable companies to bring a more efficient high speed internet to rural Ohio. OARnet stands for the Ohio Academic Resource Network and is a division of the Ohio Board of Regents. See: http://www.oar.net/about/index.shtml for more information. It is a public entity networking with schools, healthcare, and government facilities.

OARnet will link their 1,850 miles of network with 3,000 miles of private network owned by these companies to create a public-private partnership. This will make a stronger and faster system for those in rural Ohio. For the full article, see: http://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2011/11/29/oarnet-getting-faster-better.html?ed=2011-11-29&s=article_du&ana=e_du_pub

We really need a strong fiber optic cable system in Ohio, for all citizens, for all businesses, for all counties. This partnership is another step in that direction.

Alone in the Car: Merry Christmas

According to a Pew Forum survey, 78.4 % of Americans are Christian, 1.7% are Jewish, .7% are Buddhist, .6% are Muslim, .4% are Hindu, and less than .3% are Native American in terms of their religious affiliation.

I am a Christian and celebrate a religious holiday in December known as Christmas. I wish people a "Merry Christmas" to denote a happy time, a joyous occasion, a time to be with family and friends. For that is what I remember it to be as I was growing up. Mother would bake different batches of cookies and share them with neighbors and friends; we would participate as audience or on stage with the wonderful sounds of holiday music; and Dad would drive us around to see homes and downtown shopping district decorated with colorful lights, stopping at the big department store with their themed windows just for children. The best part was Christmas Eve, when Mr. Brown, a big band trumpet player and WWII disabled veteran play "Silent Night" from his porch in the dark after everyone had returned from their church services.

I never thought of these activities as political statements or "majority rules". They were just nice things that helped people smile at one another; reminded us to give to and/or visit the poor and the needy; and be grateful.

Let us hope this year that you can say "Merry Christmas" if you are a Christian and if not, please use a phrase from your religion that means hope and happiness too. This is the season for joy and hallelujahs.

Random Facts Friday: December 2, 2011

Can you believe it is December?!
This year has gone fast.
Just can't think about that? I understand.
So give the brain a break and look through these random facts I learned about recently.
See if you know any of them...

1. Yawning helps keep the brain cool, and the sinuses play a role in that process by acting as bellows, a new report suggests. Yawning isn't triggered because you're bored, tired or need oxygen. Rather, yawning helps regulate the brain's temperature, according to Gary Hack, of the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, and Andrew Gallup, of Princeton University.

2. Low Omega-3 intake ranked as the sixth cause of preventable deaths in the US.

3. The Pearl Harbor Attack began on December 7, 1941 when Japanese planes took off from their aircraft carriers at 6am and ended their bombings at 9:45am. During those hours, 2,388 Americans died and 1,178 were wounded. 

4. Mary, the mother of Jesus, is depicted many times wearing the color blue because of the Byzantine tradition (around 500 A.D.)was the color of an empress. Also in medieval times, blue paint came from lapis lazuli, a stone imported from Afghanistan and was more expensive than gold.

5. Need to have little hands busy this time of year? Try Galaxy Playdough:

2 cups of plain flour

2 cups of water with black and blue food coloring (I like the Wilton Cake food coloring)

1 Tbsp. of cooking oil

1 Tbsp. cream of tartar

1 cup of salt

Silver Glitter

INSTRUCTIONS:

Mix liquid ingredients in a large pan.  Begin to heat liquids.

In a separate bowl mix dry ingredients.  Add to the heating liquids.   Stir until the dough gathers and thickens.  Cook until it gets that sheen to it.  Let it cool slightly and then knead to bring proper consistency.  Once cool enough for children to work with, sprinkle glitter on a working surface (table, etc.) Let them work and roll the glitter into the playdough creating their very own galaxy. Store in plastic container.

Working Wednesday: Small Business Finance

The U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy has a newsletter issued bi-monthly. I usually find their articles informative and interesting. Case in point is their October/November issue.
See: http://www.sba.gov/advocacy/810.

One of the articles is "Advocacy Symposium Breaks New Ground Examining the Capital Crunch". We have seen this in Ohio for a long time--small businesses unable to get funding mainly because they don't have equity. This is true for getting loans through private and public means.

Take a look at this article and see what you think. I thought the report was on track. It is important to not only understand what you and your peers discuss as in your local area, but what collegues at the state, and national level feel are priorities too.

Also while you are on this website, sign up for this and other newsletters.

Alone in the Car: "Beading" Economic Stories Together

I make a majority of my own necklaces. In fact one of the small businesses I visited for "Small Business Saturday" was a beading store. I enjoy selecting the beads, usually glass, stone, or minerals, and creating a one-of-a-kind design. I like to see how the colors, spacing, and shapes combine together.

I thought of this analogy this long weekend while many were watching and reading to see how consumers would react to shopping the weekend after Thanksgiving, the traditional kick-off for buying for Christmas. Three news articles caught my attention and I think they are related and need to be "beaded" together.

The first one, appeared in my local paper but it is an AP story and I saw other papers around the U.S. printed it too. In summary, Black Friday--the Friday after Thanksgiving--had sales up 7% from 2010.
Now you have to put it into context because 2010 wasn't great, but it means shoppers bought more than last year. Also, online shopping was up 24.3% on that day alone. Most experts expect a drop after Friday with a total increase for the season of about 3% overall.
See: http://hosted2.ap.org/OHCO/8ef5320729ce4298abefc1903704c7d5/Article_2011-11-26-Holiday%20Shopping/id-8f0cc46e22f8451a99054ea1a8cc9371

The second one is about corporate income versus employee income. There are 3 parts to gross domestic income: money earned by people, by business, and by government agencies' purchases. Employee compensation in the 3rd quarter this year accounted for its smallest share since 1955. Businesses made up their largest share since 1950. Another evidence they are holding on to their cash reserves. The article said savings are down and the prediction of 3% increase of holiday spending is about half of the increase from last year. This was in my local paper from Bloomberg News.
See: http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/business/2011/11/26/corporate-income-outpacing-workers.html

 The third article is about 20 states who borrowed $23.6 billion from the federal government for their unemployment insurance benefit programs when theirs went dry. Borrowing also includes interest and when a state can't pay the feds back in time, there is a penalty as well. All programs depend upon a tax that businesses pay, therefore most states will raise this tax in order to pay the loan, interest, and penalty back. It is estimated there are 14 million Americans unemployed, with approximately half of them receiving unemployment insurance benefits. It is more complicated than this, but I am just summarizing what the article says at this point.
See: http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/business/2011/11/27/states-sell-bonds-to-repay-jobless-insurance-to-feds.html

Ok, I do not have an economics degree, I do not work at a financial institution, nor do I have a large portfolio. I am just a beader who sees these stories as threaded together and I have some questions.

1. If those who are at the top of these companies know that 70% of our economy depends upon consumer spending (not that I agree that it should be that much), why are they not giving their employees raises?

2. Are people going out to shop on Black Thanksgiving (yes, some stores opened that night), knowing there are just a few of something advertised at outrageous prices because they don't have money, and will only be shopping for very practical gifts the rest of the shopping season?

3. Where is our economy heading, anyway?

Random Facts Friday: November 25, 2011

Hello Black Friday Participants and those working today!
Hope your Thanksgiving holiday was a good one.
Here are some random facts to finish the week off.

1. Scientists have sequenced the genome of the monarch butterfly, which flies up to 2,000 miles from North America to central Mexico every fall. This is the first time a complete genome of any long-distance migratory creature, according to a report in the journal Cell. The long migration of monarch butterflies is remarkable in itself, but even more amazing given the fact that the migrating butterflies are two generations removed from those that made the journey the previous year. The researchers also pinpointed the set of genes that enable migrating monarchs to extend their lifespan up to nine months. Non-migrant monarchs only live for about a month.

2. Minnesota produces more turkeys than any other state. The U.S. turkey industry produces more than 250 million birds a year, with each live bird averaging about 25 pounds.

3. Take a look at getjar.com. Every single app is no-fee and will work on smartphones like Android, Blackberry, and iPhone and on feature phones.

4. It is officially the Christmas season since Santa has waved to the crowd atop a float to end the Macy's Thanksgiving parade. The first Christmas movie? "The Night Before Christmas" in 1906. Check out a great list of Christmas movies at: http://www.auburn.edu/~vestmon/christmas_movie.html

5. Recipe: Jumbo Shells Stuffed With Turkey
I usually use stuffed shells as one of my vegetarian meals, but this, from Allrecipes.com may be a T-Day leftover winner! I don't drink alcohol, so I would add grape juice instead of sherry and you may be able to reduce the fat/calories by changing the cream and/or cheese. But this is a good basic recipe to start off with....
Ingredients:   2 cups chopped cooked turkey                            
                      1/2 cup chopped pecans
                      4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley                   
                      1 egg
                      1 cup ricotta cheese                                             
                      3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
                      1/2 teaspoon salt                                                  
                      1 pinch white pepper
                      2 tablespoons butter                                            
                      1/4 cup shallots, minced
                      3 tablespoons all-purpose flour                           
                     1 1/4 cups chicken broth
                     1/4 cup dry sherry                                                
                     1/2 teaspoon salt
                     1 pinch white pepper
                     1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
                     1/2 cup heavy whipping cream                            
                     2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, mix turkey, pecans, parsley, egg, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and white pepper. Stuff cooked shells with the mixture. Place shells in the prepared baking dish.
4. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in shallots, and cook about 1 minute. Mix in flour, and cook about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually mix in chicken broth and sherry. Stir constantly until thickened. Stir in salt, white pepper, Gruyere cheese, and heavy whipping cream. Spoon over stuffed shells, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake in a preheated 350 degree F (175 degrees C) oven for 30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Place under broiler to lightly brown. Serve immediately.

Working Wednesday: American Spending Habits

The Great Recession (in my book a depression) was officially over June, 2009. Then the recovery began which has been written about several times in this blog. Now it appears, Americans are spending again through reports showing an acceleration ever since July of this year.
Didn't we learn anything?

Well, there is a little ray of hope. Americans are accumulating less "stuff" and going for more practical  items. Yet, we spent 93.1% after-tax income on goods and services in the 3rd quarter this year and also in October. People spent the same share of income as they did during the 2000s and more than during the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s or 1990s.

Say you own a business, would 6.9% of your funds in your bank account be enough for long term survival?  I am not talking about investments of any kind to make it a simple analogy on purpose. Just saying--could you tuck away about 7% of your net profits and weather the storms and if so for how long?

If we use the June, 2009 date as the time recovery began, then it has been about 2 years and we are back to our spending habits. We were saving our money, deciding what was important, and having "board meetings" in our homes to discuss what to take with the funds left over from paying our bills.

I for one don't agree recovery began in 2009. Too many companies were still in pain. They stabilized by the summer of 2010, but that meant they weren't losing anymore. It didn't mean they were gaining until maybe the beginning of this year. So say by December, 2010 the true recovery was emerging. That means Americans have re-discovered their spending habits within 6-9 months, not 2 years as mentioned above.

Let us take and use some lessons that businesses apply everyday. We also know that companies are holding on to their reserves pretty tight right now. There are too many of them not to ignore this strategy.
There has got to be a reason. After we too have set aside some cash, let us look at our discretionary funds, make wise choices, and support our local economy for a balanced and full way of life.

See: See: http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi/basics/story/2011-11-22/consumer-spending/51354602/1?csp=34news&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+usatoday-NewsTopStories+%28News+-+Top+Stories%29&utm_content=My+Yahoo

Alone in the Car: Thanksgiving Holiday

I have read news reports of schools who don't allow the story of the first Thanksgiving to be taught. I am sorry to hear that. To this day, I still gather facts about the Pilgrims and the tribes that helped them.
I find the story fascinating--religious freedom, learning how to live in a different enviornment, establishing new friendships and trusts, and instituting the Mayflower compact.

One of the hardest things in studying history is overlaying our current culture on top of a culture of long ago. Some things of course are abhorent, no matter what. Other times, I am not sure we can entirely grasp what others felt. I try very hard to express not only the objective but the subjective in my journal writings. I write the entries not for myself, but for my descendents. Perhaps my descriptions will lead them to clues for cures, discoveries, cultural understanding, and of course first person accounts of historical events. Perhaps also, for those that won't know me personally, they will be introduced to one of their ancestors and feel how vast their family tree truly is, whether on this earth or beyond.

It would not be right if I left this blog without saying a few words about what I am grateful for. There are 2 ways to look at this--the truly big things that never really leave your mind and push you along life's path, like "family". Or the little pieces of the puzzle that make you realize how wonderful this world is, like watching fireflies during summer nights. So I decided to list a few from each.

1. The Constitution of the United States
2. Singing
3. Color

4. Gathering seashells
5. Hugs from a toddler
6. Opening up a buckeye nut pod

I hope you have a good holiday.
Would love to hear what you are grateful for this year!

Random Facts Friday: November 18, 2011

 A crisp, sunny November day.
And it's Friday! Time for another Random Facts Friday.
Give your mind a break and see if you know these already...

1. It is hunting season in Ohio. Most know about deer and turkey. Did you also know Ohio has hunting/trapping seasons for fox, raccoon, skunk, opossum, weasel, mink, muskrat, coyotes, wild boars, beaver, and river otter? See Ohio Department of Natural Resources for details.

2. Lactose, the sugar found naturally in milk, occurs rather rarely in nature. In fact, it can’t be found anywhere else except in forsythia flowers and a few tropical shrubs. (Thanks to someone who reads my blog and sent this in for a Random Fact!)


3. The largest commercial building constructed of bamboo is on the island of Bali. It is a chocolate factory made from more than 3,000 bamboo poles and is 3 stories high. The factory is 23,000 square feet under roof.


4. About 100 years ago, half of U.S. residents had blue eyes. Nowadays only 1 in 6 does.

5. Recipe: Corn Casserole
2 eggs                    1 cup milk                  15 saltine crackers, crushed
3 TBSP butter       1 can corn(2 cups)      1 TBSP sugar

Whip eggs. Add milk and 2/3 cup cracker crumbs. Add butter, corn, sugar, salt and pepper to taste. Pour into greased casserole and sprinkle top with remaining crackers. Bake for 40 minutes at 350 degrees. Feeds 4.

Working Wednesday: Make it Yourself

This is a "Part II" if you will from last week's Working Wednesday entry on Small Business Saturday (SBS). This is the Saturday after Thanksgiving and is to encourage everyone to frequent a small business in your community. It could be a dry cleaners, hardware store, restaurant, a service provider, other retail establishments, etc. etc. for they are the backbone of your local economy not a national chain store.

One of the things in these economic times is the returning (for some) of making things yourself. I think of this now during the Christmas season and the traditional gift-gifting that accompanies it. I challenge you, if you are not doing so already, to make something yourself either as a decoration, gift, cards, etc. and purchase the needed supplies at a local small business.

Need ideas? Here are some websites that are really 12 month resources, but great to start off your search:
1. http://makeprojects.com/
Most are on the tech-y side, but simple enough. Heard the Publisher at a conference and I was "hooked". They also have a magazine.

2. pinterest.com
I warn you--once you get started, you won't stop. This is probably more for females than males, but use the "search" block and I bet you will find things.

3. http://tidbits365.blogspot.com/
This has great photos with tutorials as the blogger goes along throughout the project/recipe.

4. http://sciencetoymaker.org/
    http://www.rd.com/home/17-easy-toys-you-can-make-at-home/
These are just a few websites for making toys for children. I like the first one the best. There are some good, selected ones on the second site.

5. http://www.foxfire.org/
If you want to need to feel motivated first, try buying one of the first Foxfire books. These books chronicle the legacy of a Do It Yourself culture deep in the Appalachian Mountains.

Remember the culture you call "home".  Think of your friends, neighbors, co-workers. I would think they all have or remember how to make things from raw materials or "scratch". You can do it, I know you can!

Alone in the Car: Peripheral Vision

Recently, a woman was found wondering a country road. The person who found her, an attorney, called police and she was taken to a near-by hospital. Her story--she was at a fast food restaurant drive-through window, 2 men got into her van, one raped her after they had told her to drive around for some time, and she ended up on this country road. See: http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2011/11/08/woman-says-she-was-kidnapped-raped.html

It took me a few minutes to absorb this story when I first read it. You mean to tell me that when this lady was at a McDonald's drive-through, 2 males climbed into her car? Apparently she did not see the face of the one sitting in the seat behind her, only the one sitting next to her who raped her. I have not read anything about security tapes. There is a police artist sketch of him: http://us2.campaign-archive2.com/?u=0fe36c069bae69228ad5a76de&id=fc69905774&e=21461b6503


I read history to get a handle on current events, to see if the powers-that-be are using the same strategies that were used before(with success or not)and what we may learn through evaluation of those events.  Or have they something new they are presenting that has merit? The incident at McDonalds begs the question, "What part of history are we repeating now?" for I do not consider what happened to be an isolated one. What part of history would criminals feel comfortable enough to get away with jumping into a car at a fast food drive-through at 5:30pm? Or is the question, not only when in history, but where? In either case, the criminals were unafraid.


I am not scared, just more determined. I try to have my peripheral vision on all the time, but I can't honestly say I have been 100% alert of my surroundings when paying for my hamburger or chicken sandwich. Now I know. Now I will do.


Just reminders/tips/ideas:
1. My blockwatch group is an active one. They keep me informed about what is going on around the neighborhood and in the general area. I am geniunely appreciative of these volunteers. Consider starting one or financially supporting those who do. 


2. Remember what you were told, even as a child--lock doors, park under a light, look in the back of the car before getting in, don't talk with people you don't know, where possible have a buddy system, remember where you parked your car, etc. 


3. Let someone know where you will be--your schedule, who you will be with, location, etc. Call along the way/during the day. Just common sense that confirms you take yourself and those you care about seriously.


These are not new, but we need to re-new our commitment to be ever vigilent, having our "eyes in the back of heads", watching for details, etc. When you know your path/route, then you walk/drive with confidence and can be aware of your surroundings. Practice remembering details. 


Everyone has talents and abilities. By combining yours with others, your group (family, friends, etc.) will stay safe and contribute to the well-being of your community.

Random Facts Friday November 11, 2011

Happy Veterans Day to all that served our country!
And to those returning from recent missions, welcome home.

Here are some random facts.
I thought I would appropriately add some about veterans.

1. There is one veteran left from WWI, though all of USA's are gone now. Florence Green of England is 110 years old. There is a list of the last survivor per country on Wikipedia.

2. According to the Veterans Administration, there are approximately 1.7 million WWII surviving veterans. This diminishes about 740 per day. Many WWII vet records were destroyed in a fire some years ago in Kansas City. I encourage you to have your loved ones "tell their tale" before their story is lost forever.

3. There were 5.7 million Americans served in what has been known as the "forgotten war", or Korean War.

4. During the Viet Nam Era, 9 million Americans served their country, 3.4 million were stationed in SE Asia, and somewhere between 1-1.5 million were in combat or exposed to enemy attack.

5. Recipe: Here are websites you may want to look into for sending cookies to deployed troops. Of course, the best way is to contact the U.S. Post Office and get advice directly from them.

http://www.treatthetroops.org/
www.verybestbaking.com/.../Shipping-Cookies-to-Military-Overseas...
anysoldier.com/howtosend.cfm 
http://allrecipes.com/HowTo/how-to-mail-cookies-to-the-troops/detail.aspx 

Working Wednesday: National Small Business Day November 26, 2011

National Small Business Day is designed to support local businesses in your community. It will be held the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Facebook has a page dedicated to Small Business Day. Small businesses, Chambers of Commerce, and others are signing up there. Some are listing their discounts for the day. It would be good for you to contact your local Chamber and ask if they are participating in National Small Business Day and if they know of any retail businesses giving discounts.

We all know the foundation small business gives to our economy. Even during the Great Recession(for most of us a depression), small business has been a vital force within our local economy. They took a hit during the last few years, no doubt. Now, remember the ones who gave you excellent service, advice, and took time with you, even during these past lean years? Please visit them on November 26th. Have your lists and ideas ready. Maybe they have added to their inventory since you last visited. Individuality is sort of fun and maybe even necessary to have amongst the ordinary items in a drawer.

Shopping for price is usually what we tend to do. Taking time with the expert, well--they need our thanks too. There's the dry cleaners, bakery, small restaurant or sandwich shop, shoe store, etc. who know just the way you like or need items done. I wouldn't be surprised at all if you get your hair cut by the same person each time. Why? Because they know how you want it done. They could be ones you stop by too on November 26th.

It isn't just about the small business owner. By helping to keep (buying) their door open, you support their workers and/or their supply chain employees who also live nearby. Lots of threads woven together to keep a town vibrant, isn't there? It will be interesting to see which ones you support November 26th.

Alone in the Car: Occupy Wall Street Sit-In

Occupy Wall Street officially began September 17, 2011. That was the day the protesters moved to Zuccotti Park in lower Manhattan and set up residence. By now, most of my readers probably have an opinion--strongly support, strongly disagree, or not interested. For most of the time, I fell in the last category. During my life time, albeit younger years, I lived through similar protests. They did not catch my interest because for me it was history repeating itself. Though usually that is why I study history--to see if I can learn from the past. I couldn't help thinking about the Wall Street Crash of 1929 and what it did to the wealthy class who survived it. In essence, they became very, very quiet. Only the Nouveau Rich let it be known nowadays.

Then unrest hit the tent towns, the snow came to New York, police were called in and I wondered what would be Part II of the story? News stories about personal and political connections mixed together, the original mission statement of the protesters became broadbased, and with all of this, the result was the cause slowed down.

But here is something to consider based on data. Fortune Magazine's November issue has an article entitled, "The Growing Wealth Gap". It measured the disparity between the rich and the rest of us. An American CEO's pay is 475 times larger than the average worker's. Japan's CEO is only 11 times larger. Germany is 12 times larger, France is 15 times larger, Britain is 22 times larger. The closest one to us mentioned in the article is Venezuela at 50 times larger.

The people heading companies work hard and from what I've seen are pretty intelligent too. CEO's have many to answer to--their boards, stockholders, media. That has to be stressful. It's the bonuses and other benefits that they receive that I don't understand, while laying off their workforce. They say they can't afford their employees, while awarding themselves (or their boards to them) luxuries. That's the disparity I don't get. Salaries (including the entire package as listed above) is usually a big portion of a company's budget. Becoming leaner and more efficient is assumed. Just make sure you start at the top.

Random Facts Friday: November 4, 2011

What a beautiful fall day in Ohio!
Let's ease into the weekend with some random facts.
See if you know them!

1. To avoid eye strain at the computer, look away 20 feet in front of you for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.

2. Pandiculation-- the act of stretching and yawning.

3. It is impossible for an observer to manuever to see any rainbow from water droplets at any angle other than the customary one (which is 42 degrees from the direction opposite the Sun).

4. Reminder: What's the difference between a frost and a freeze? Frost occurs on a clear, still night, as heat radiates from surfaces (your car window, a field, etc.) to the sky. The temperature drops below 32 degrees, and water vapor freezes on those surfaces. The temperature usually won't go much below freezing, because energy is released as the water freezes. Clouds or fog will trap the heat, usually preventing a frost. A freeze is when cold, Arctic air moves into the region.  The air is much colder than 32 degrees, there is wind, and the humidity is very low. Much of the damage we see on plants in a freeze is from desiccation--severe drying of the foliage. 

5. Beef Stew Seasoning Mix: I found this on Budget101.com. I may mix all the ingredients together but leave the flour out for longer storage time, then add the flour for say a winter season, knowing you will use it up. Also, this is a suggestion of flavors. Exchange one herb for something you like better, or if you want more "kick".

2 cups Flour
4 teaspoons Oregano
2 tablespoons basil
4 1/4 tablespoons salt
4 1/4 tablespoons black pepper
4 1/4 tablespoons Garlic Powder
4 1/4 tablespoons Paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 T Celery Seed
4 1/4 tablespoons Onion Powder
2 tsp. rosemary

Measure all ingredients into a large ziploc bag, shake well.

To use:Add 2-3 tablespoons per 2 pounds of meat.

Working Wednesday: Energy Audits

An energy audit is an easy way to help a company's bottom line. It doesn't matter the size of the business-- even those operating in small buildings can take advantage of an energy audit. Businesses who have had a tough time making it through this long economic recession/depression, and are now in that "grey zone" where the fiscal stability is a bit foggy, should seriously consider an energy audit. The major electric companies in Ohio are all accomplished at the task of coming to your offices, researching the existing lighting, wiring, etc., and making suggestions.

Just think, Ohio’s contributions to our way of life by its sons and daughters, like Thomas Edison,  during the 20^th century are numerous and we still are receiving the benefits of their inventions, such as the electric light bulb. Virtually all businesses, schools, and homes are run more effectively since we can see better and for longer periods of time.

The Farm Science Review, (fsr.osu.edu) held annually during the 3^rd week in September

 at the Molly Caren Agricultural Center outside London, Ohio is an open air conference for agribusiness. There are a few buildings on the 2,100-acre site including the Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives Education Center. Inside are booths related to energy and this year a booth was staffed by Dan Klear of Superior Energy Solutions. Superior Energy Solutions’ tag line is “ Your Access to Going Green”. One of their major services is a lighting assessment for improvements to lower energy bills. This is done by replacing or retro-fitting with new energy efficient lights.

Dan spoke of K&M Tire in Van Wert with over 130,000 square feet under roof. After a lighting assessment was completed and new lighting was installed, the company was able to reduce their bill by $2,000 a month. Part of the energy plan was to only use lighting when people were in a particular area. Superior Energy Solutions installed sensors that would turn the lights on depending upon where people were located and working, not just having the lights on all the time, everywhere.

This same practice has saved money in high school gyms, fitness centers, and YMCA pools. When an area is not being used, the sensors turn off the lights. But when people access the area, then the sensors automatically turn the lights on.

Utility companies such as AEP have programs and grants that could partially offset the cost of the new lighting. There may also be available tax credits for becoming more efficient. These are worth looking into before starting such a project.

Alone in the Car: To Be or Not To Be A Carnivore

I have had this conversation with myself several times during my lifetime: should I eat meat and its close relatives such as eggs, fish, etc.? I grew up pretty much a city girl, so meat came from a grocery store or butcher. They were packaged in celephane or wrapped in brown paper. Nobody told me the origin of said meat. Eggs were in cartons. What was the big deal? They tasted good. Especially pickled eggs. My grandfathers were both accomplished fisherman and provided for their families by bringing home fish for the dinner table.

And then one day I grew old enough to realize that the juicy meat called "tongue" we had for an occasional Sunday dinner was really a cow's tongue. Oh, dear. I had to think the whole "farm to dinner table" production line. Which opened other ideas as well. I was too young for such responsibility!

Skipping through time, leaving other events out, I am once again pondering the question of "To Be or Not To Be" thanks to a new California law banning Foie Gras. The law's intent is to find another way other than the traditional method to create Foie Gras, because it is cruel to ducks and geese. They are forced fed to increase the size of their liver, then killed. So the law is ok with Foie Gras itself, which I interpret to mean the killing of said ducks and geese, just not the force feeding part. The production of Foie Gras will stop at the beginning of 2012. Once a humane way can be found to increase the liver size, production can once again be allowed in California. Just what am I to do(though I have never eaten Foie Gras)?

I believe I can evolve and accept change, so that is not the problem. For years, the American diet was based on a triangle with breads on the lower level, then fruits and veggies, dairy and protein, and finally at the top oils and sweets. Now we have the circle(plate) as described by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It shows how to divide up a circle into fruits, vegetables, grains, protein. Dairy has its own small circle on the Northeast corner. Ok, I can go from triangle to circle. I can be flexible.

But I still haven't decided which way I will choose about meat. Until I do, I will continue to be a city girl.

Random Facts Friday October 28, 2011

You made it!
Another working week done and the last full week of October accomplished.
Ready for some Random facts? See if you know these...

1. By the end of October, the world will have approximately 7 billion people according to the United Nations. Much of the growth is occurring in African nations south of the Sahara. The U.S. population would be shrinking if not for immigration.

2. IQ tests show that the average teenager is smarter with each generation. The tests are constantly adjusted to keep average at 100, and a teenager who now would score a 100 would have scored a 118 in 1950 and a 130 in 1910.

3. There were fewer than 20 democracies in 1946. Now there are close to 100. The number of authoritarian countries has dropped from a high of almost 90 in 1976 to about 25 now.

4. The first candy corn was made in 1898. 

5. Recipe: Everyone has Halloween treats and cakes that are their favorites. One that is fast and easy:
Make a sheet cake as directed. Ice as usual using white, chocolate, or even grey colored icing. Stick Vienna Cookies vertical into the cake with "candy corn" pumpkins scattered throughout. Looks like a cemetery. Can add other non-edible items from craft store for a more detailed scene.

Working Wednesday: Healthcare Consumerism and Hospital Quality

How many businesses fall under the Healthcare Business Sector? How many people are employed? This is big business, to be sure. Today's blog is about a slice of it--hospitals. Recently a report was released: 2011 Healthcare Consumerism and Hospital Quality in America which documented patient outcomes at almost 5,000 American non-federal hospitals. This study looked at outcomes for 27 procedures using data from 40,000,000 records during 2008 through 2010.

Some of the results were obvious: people were most likely to survive in 5 Star rated hospitals. If you want to see how some of the hospitals in your state are rated, go to HealthGrades.com/MyCity.

Another result of the study found more people were researching to find quality doctors and hospitals rather than the diseases and illnesses. I am not sure I am convinced this is true. HealthGrades was deeply involved and had a vested interest in the research. But I do agree that quality healthcare is on everyone's mind. If it is going to be expensive, people want it done right. There is a huge trust factor that is quivering right now. There are many reason for this, of course. Quality plays an important piece. People want their hospitals to rise to the occasion and give top service. This is a conversation I heard several years ago in an Emergency Room and it went something like this--Communications Staff Member: " I am sorry you cannot go up to a room right now. We just don't have enough nurses and we must keep our nurse/patient ratio correct." Patient: " You are a for-profit hospital, are you not?" Staff: No response.
The patient wasn't buying it about a nurse shortage. If the hospital wanted to have more, they could hire more, but that meant the bottom line would be affected. That is the perception of the public about their hospitals.

For hospitals to be more about their patients and keep business in the black, here are some suggestions:
1. Stop having a huge marketing budget. My insurance, doctor, and friends' recommendations will decide where I go for procedures/surgery. I live in a city where there are hospitals competing everyday with ads and commercials. Rather, use that money to get lab and tests results back on time, rooms clean, and beds that work (all first hand information, folks).

2. Have EVERYONE, and I do mean everyone who comes in contact with a customer(I deliberately used that word instead of "patient"), pass the National Professional Certification in Customer Service. It is through the National Retail Federation and is an industry recognized certification. I can think of a doctor or two, phlebotomist, nurse, etc. who would have benefited from such a course. Bet people will come if they get good service. Quality + quantity = profit.

3. What really is free, which is sometimes what they tell you at the hospital or doctor's office? That is what a nurse told me when I didn't have to give a co-pay for my child's shot. But my insurance who paid for the shot that day is not free. I pay health insurance every month. And what really is on the hospital bill sent to your insurance company? Ever try to get an itemized bill from a hospital? This goes back to trust issues and ethical issues to name a few. If hospitals want repeat business and good recommendations, then they will have to perform just like any other business--quality product, expert advice, and being up front with good customer service.

Hopefully, your insurance allows you choice of doctors and hospitals. Perhaps the study above will be part of your research as to where you go to use the dollars you have set aside for medical care.

Spiritual Sunday: Choosing to rest like Mother Nature

Today I woke up and there was frost on the grass. The flowers were ok, but I know the time for Mother Nature to rest is coming soon. I learned this week that I should pull my annuals before they are smitten with frost because any disease, etc. will be frozen and lay dormant ready to come alive in Spring. I have always hated to pull those flowers while they are still pretty, but now I understand Fall is given to me to prepare for Spring. That makes me feel better.

We have so many choices. Do you choose different activities during Mother Nature's "quiet time"? That is true for me--I read some non-fiction material and perhaps incorporate into my life, needlecrafts, and organizing for example. I also have a goal to rest, thinking Mother Nature has a pretty good idea but I don't always meet that part of my plan!

Of course our bodies and minds need to take a break more times than 1 season. They cannot work properly if asked to be a "top break speed" all the time. They need nourishment AND rest. When was the last time you really allowed yourself to take a true break? When did you choose not to work, go shopping, watch sports, go to a movie, or even go to a restaurant? All of these are people oriented and remind us of the rush-around pace of the world.

Here are some suggestions to choose to do on your day off to go away from the crowd and truly rest:
1. Go to a park, bring a blanket, relax. Bring a book, something to eat, a journal to write down whatever thoughts come to mind.
2. Take photos of small objects that you usually take for granted, go by each day, etc. Stay in one place and take photos of the same view every 60 minutes. Print and frame to remember the day.
3. Take time to doodle with pen/paper; playdough(I prefer the homemade cooked recipe); silly putty(also homemade); etc. while listening to favorite music through headphones while outdoors.
4. If you are fortunate to be able to live close to water(creek, pond, river, lake) sit beside the bank and use your senses-hear, see, smell, touch. And for all, pick a nature spot--how many parts of the ecosystem can you identify? How many live in each layer? Get lost in the big picture.

Spiritual Sunday: Restoring Nature

We humans generally have the idea that we can fix ecological imbalances. These "imbalances" we determine to be wrong. They may be perfectly fine to Mother Nature, but do not meet our finer sensibilities and so we try to fix them. Or we bring in an invasive species, plant or animal, on purpose or by accident, and quickly change an ecosystem that sat right in the middle of a seesaw doing ok to one scrambling to exist.

I am here to report one place where humans went back, tried to fix their mistake, and maybe nature will be able to make a go of it. Humans did not get it perfect, but close enough that the original ecosystem just might return and succeed. It took time, lots of work, money(of course), and coordination. Those who live in the area may not even notice. That could be a good thing. The species returning are certainly small, but that is where nature starts, right?

I am hoping this gives others incentive, motivation, ideas for planning and implementation. I also want to salute those involved with the Big Darby restoration project. Well Done.

See: http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2011/10/16/big-darby-restoration-project-bringing-life-back-to-creek.html

Alone in the Car: Graduate School Numbers Dropping

Two articles recently caught my eye. Both having the topic of less people enrolling in advanced degrees.
Please see: http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700182482/Number-of-graduate-students-down-for-the-first-time-in-seven-years.html and
http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/business/2011/10/09/law-school-applications-for-2011-at-9-year-low.html

I thought it was interesting that in the first article, the Council of Graduate Schools noted that usually bad economic times bring students to schools. But in this economic climate, people are concerned that if they leave their current job, there won't be one to return to. Even with employers saying they need those with higher education, people don't want to take the risk.

Another reason--the high cost of graduate school. With the uncertainty of a job, any job, not too many people want to have to pay back high figure loans. Companies who are offering jobs to recent grads are giving lower salaries compared to even a year ago. People are looking at value added for themselves, including if they do go back to school, skipping the higher end universities for a school that's more affordable.

Over the years, reports of the millennial generation have mentioned their observations of the parents. This may be another evidence. They see their parents with college degrees, even advanced degrees, who are now unemployed. Even dentists and doctors have seen their practices decline up to 50%. Though they hear they should get an advanced degree, in real life it doesn't seem to matter.

Right now there is much uncertainty. As long as companies sit tight, so will their workers.

Random Facts Friday October 14, 2011

Almost the middle of the 10th month of the year!
How did your week go?
Mine was pretty good - a healthy grandchild was added to the family.
Here are some random facts to end your work week.
See which ones you already know.

1. Pumpkins originated in Central America. And to satisfy any discussion---they are a fruit.

2. The word "bark" as in the bark of a tree can be traced back to several European languages. It was spelled the same way and meant the same thing in all of them.

3. The average size newborn is 7.5 pounds.

4. The lowest number of births happen on a Sunday and the largest number occur on Tuesdays. On a monthly basis, May has the highest and September/October have the lowest.


5. Recipe: Many of us make homemade chicken soup. I learned a Pennsylvania Dutch recipe some time ago for Chicken Corn Soup: the main ingredients are chicken, drained canned corn, carrots and noodles. Cook the chicken first as usual. Once cooked, remove, dice, and return to broth. Add the corn and fresh carrots which have been cut into bite size pieces and continue to boil. Add herbs and spices to individual taste. Once the carrots are tender, add medium size egg noodles. Cook until noodles are ready. Just before serving, garnish with diced boiled egg. So good on an autumn night!

Working Wednesday: Exports and Imports

I am aware of 3 websites where information about current export and import statistics are readily available: the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis and the Economic Research Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Please see for BEA:  https://mail.google.com/mail/?shva=1#inbox/132fd5674fc1ad1a and USDA: http://www.ers.usda.gov/Data/FATUS/. For some information about Ohio's foreign trade, see: http://www.census.gov/foreign-trade/statistics/state/data/oh.html.

This week, the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, through the Department of Commerce, announced total August exports of $177.6 billion and imports of $223.2 billion resulted in a goods and services deficit of $45.6 billion, virtually unchanged from July, revised. The full text of the release on BEA's Web site can be found at www.bea.gov/newsreleases/international/trade/tradnewsrelease.htm

Update 10/17/11: The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture announced on 10/13 that our country sold 900,000 metric tons of corn to China. See: http://news.yahoo.com/china-corn-purchase-one-largest-ever-084328703.html

I find these statistics interesting. I usually look at what countries receive our American goods and how much is traded between us and them. Just because I find it interesting, doesn't mean I find answers to questions like:
1. if one of my goals is to be self-reliant, would I want my nation to be that way too? Would that shape my trade deals?
2. Would the strongest nations' currency be the most important? The most secure trade? The most trusted trade?
3. Politics must play a part in the export world because of the laws/regulations governing trade between countries. I realize that one of the reasons why the Constitution was created was because each state was making trade deals with other countries. But I also look at the list of countries we export the most to and find it isn't always our friends. Why is that?

If you are a small business and want to talk to someone about exporting, you may want to seek out the U.S. Small Business Administration's Export Assistance Centers. See: http://www.sba.gov/content/us-export-assistance-centers. They are located in several cities in Ohio: Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Toledo. Contact information is on the website.

Spiritual Sunday: Walking Through The Door

Picture yourself coming home from work and others are waiting for your arrival. It could be a pet and/or family members. In the first scenario, your first words may be some form of greeting, but fast becomes one of how tired you are, or some other negative paragraph summary. Little eye-to-eye contact is made, others in the room are soon forgotten.

The second scenario is just the opposite. You walk through the door with a smile. Whatever was on your mind when you left the office, you decided it can wait. This is time set aside for others. A time to connect with the pet, relax or exercise with a friend, or listen to family members tell about their day because you are interested in them for their sake in a casual not causal manner. Smiles beget smiles. Humans need to be with others and need to relax. 

A gemstone carver is a true artist. Cutting a stone to achieve as many facets as possible takes time and research. Without smiling, thinking of others, etc. you are a one facet person. But by listening to others, enjoying learning, and giving the brain some time to relax, you begin to add dimension (facets) to yourself.

You may find there are many more doors you would like to open.

Alone in the Car: True Humorists and Comedians

There is something about hearing a really good joke. In my world, a good joke doesn't need R rated language, late-night topics, or hurtful sarcasm. It can stand alone and stand the test of time. It can even be a comedy routine or a one-liner. It bring smiles, hearty laughs, and people looking at each other and sharing the moment.

Humor is good for us:
1. it releases endorphins into the brain.
2. stimulates the immune system.
3. adds oxygen to the brain, increasing relaxation, deeper thought or learning.
4. alters chemicals in the brain that reduce stress, lift emotions, and sustains a sense of well being.

Let me suggest some ideas for good humor:
1. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uztA6JCKB4s

2. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRGW8MarSno

Random Facts Friday October 7, 2011

Hello everyone,
How has been your week?
Ready to kick back and let your mind rest for a bit?
See if you know these random facts that I found out about this week.

1. The Jinhua Hutou Dog Meat Festival, a 600 year old custom held in Eastern China, has come to its end. This festival is usually held in October but pet ownership has grown rapidly among the Chinese, and an online campaign has effectively shut it down.

2. A Benedictine Monastery outside of Minneapolis commissioned the only handwritten and illuminated Bible by a Benedictine group in the more than 500 years since the invention of the printing press. Scribes working in Wales used quills cut from goose or swan feathers. The paper is of vellum(calfskin) and paints are from gold, silver, malachite, and other precious minerals or stones. The Bible has 1150 pages.

3. Republicans in Congress use Twitter twice as much as Democrats. Sen. John McCain leads the Senators and Speaker John Boehner leads the House for the Republicans. Sen. Claire McCaskill and Rep. Nancy Pelosi lead the Democrats.

4. White Castle hamburgers' square shape date back to the 1940's when they figured out they could put 30 burgers onto a grill at the same time. The five holes mean they don't need to be flipped for quick cooking.

5. Recipe: Try this twist to the traditional Waldorf Salad and support Ohio's Maple Syrup and Apple Agribusinesses--
3 cups cut up Apples        1/2 cup Chopped Nuts          2 TBSP Dressing/Mayonnaise        
3/4 cup Raisins                 2 TBSP Maple Syrup

Toss all gently in large bowl until all is covered. Chill 1 hour before serving.

Working Wednesday: Electronically Mobile Workforce

The lingering economic downturn has made companies think about how they conduct their business. And these new approaches will have a significant impact on the type of employees a company recruits.

I recently read an article from SHRM(Society for Human Resource Management) that overall didn't surprise me and probably you. Loosely translated-- the downward spiral of the economy "encouraged" companies to conduct businesses in new ways. SHRM's emphasis of course was on the effects of recruiting and what type of person the company will now be looking for.

There is a theory that everyone is waiting. Business owners are watching those in Washington. Once the environment becomes a friendly and stable one, then growth will take place and savings will once again be balanced with expansion. And as the article seems to agree with the theory-- those employees who can hang on to their job until that time, are watching their leaders from supervisor clear up the chain to CEO. They are watching to see who is telling the truth to them, who is hypocritical, who are effective leaders and who are not. These factors will count in determining whether or not the employee will bolt from the company once things get better. If a company cares about their employees, those employees have neighbors, friends, and are part of organizations in their community. People find out who these companies are and decide to buy products and services from ones that have a soul as well as a brain.

Another point has to do with flexible working hours. That in itself is not new. I believe the article was addressing jobs beyond the typical flexible ones currently like sales and adding many more since electronic means gives more workers the capability to complete assignments anywhere. From an h.r. perspective, how do you define working hours if someone is connected to work through electronic means 24/7? For some jobs, this 24/7 accessibility is going to be a plus for the employer for sure. Does accessibility have boundaries and if so, where on the organizational chart do boundaries count or not?

Where do you find people who can work off-site and be productive? Not everyone is a self-starter. Many do well under some type of management style. People, from kindergarten on, have had someone in charge. How does h.r. recruit those who can be entirely on their own?

If nothing else, as the article states, it gives new meaning to the term "teamwork". Gathering the team together when they were at work during the same hours had some perks --less set up time, brainstorming ideas bouncing off each other in the same room, etc. What does one gain if they are not at the office? If the team is doing their job, more first hand experience perhaps. Also, the realization that both employer and employee are relevant and can contribute.

The last point the article brought up made me ponder. We all know about Mars/Venus when it comes to men and women. Deborah Busser, a career expert at Essex Partners, helps to define teamwork as "playing your positions" (often more of a male mind-set) to "everyone chips in and does what is needed" (more of a female approach). I had never heard of approaching teamwork from a Mars/Venus mindset before.

No doubt we are in an economic evolution. I truly believe it is as significant as the one that took Western Civilization from farm to factory. Having a mobile workforce will be part of this changing business landscape.

Peace versus Fun

Remember the old adage: Eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow you may die? I think this was the motto for the entire '60's decade. It meant basically do whatever you want to, at whatever degree you want to because you who knows- you could die the next day. It gave the person the excuse to have no behavior boundaries, to be gluttonous with fun.

Even gluttony has payback. And those who had too much fun and decided they wanted to get back to "even", will tell you it was a long trail and trial. This earth and its human race was just not designed to be at extremes. There is balance here.

Which brings us to peace. Inner peace. There is a still small voice in each of us. Some may call it a "gut feeling". It is the voice that rights our ship, if you will. It keeps us on a steady a path. A path that may not be overly glamorous, or extremely filled with adrenaline, or watches others "have all the fun".
But it doesn't pull us into the places that feel nice and warm which seem ok and then too late realizes we  are in life threatening situations and can't get out.

Staying on the path that we know is right feels good and gives us ultimately, peace.

Alone in the Car: Nuclear Energy and Jobs for Southern Ohio

I have been following a "developing" story for 3 years now involving a nuclear power site in Piketon, Ohio. Just this past week, more announcements were made by the major employer there, USEC. Please see the Columbus Dispatch article,"USEC prepares for possible layoffs": The company which wants to build a uranium enrichment plant in Piketon says it can't do so without a long awaited $2 billion federal loan guarantee". http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2011/09/30/USEC-layoffs.html

I have been following this story for personal as well as professional reasons. This story involves 2 other places--Idaho and their Idaho Nuclear Engineering Laboratory(INEL) and Paducah, Kentucky. My husband once worked for a contractor associated with Idaho and so I am familiar with it and my grandmother's family resides close to Paducah.

There are many jobs that rest on the judgement call of the U.S. Department of Energy. Currently there are 264 employees at the plant who report to USEC. If DOE approves a $2 billion dollar conditional loan guarantee commitment to USEC to build a uranium enrichment plant, then USEC would then need to hire 4,000 people. Obviously a true boon to the economy for Southern Ohio and good jobs too. If you read my Wednesday blog, this would mean 1 and only 1 job for families with no need for supplemental income sources.

Three years ago USEC applied for this loan guarantee along with INEL. After some time elapsed, Idaho got the contract in May, 2010. It will be at a location called Eagle Rock and will employ 1,000 people. See: http://energy.gov/articles/doe-offers-conditional-loan-guarantee-front-end-nuclear-facility-idaho. DOE then said it would re-consider USEC's application and could also approve its application.

USEC has an uranium enrichment plant in Paducah but feels it needs a plant that can be more efficient. Thus it has waited and waited for DOE to guarantee the loan. USEC has others who have planned all along to invest in the project if the federal government will back the project. They have waited for 3 years to hear from DOE. They can wait no longer. Thus USEC has announced layoffs beginning at the end of this month.

I feel part of the problem is Piketon itself. It has approximately 1900 people. Would more people be interested if the plant had a different location? Part 2--this story is about government energy strategy. Which means this also includes political strategy of the Administration and Congress.

Energy Strategy is "hot" right now (excuse the pun). But I will tell you what I am doing: watching how I run the dishwasher, going back to heating my water on the stove not in the microwave for tea, turning off lights and turning on candles, exercising at night in the winter, and wearing a hat inside the house. These are the things I can control, these are the things that are in my sphere of influence that will count towards my energy/utility bills. I urge you to find the little efforts in your daily living that will add up and make a difference that you can see for yourself.

Random Facts Friday September 30, 2011

How was your work week?
Regardless of your week's activities, ready to give your mind a rest?
Ready for some random facts?
See which ones you already know!

1. Georgia normally produces 1 million tons of peanuts a year, or roughly half of the U.S. harvest. Jif is the biggest selling peanut butter brand.

2. If you plan to make your own canned pumpkin, the only safe way mashed pumpkin can be stored is to freeze it. Mashed pumpkin cannot be processed by a water bath or by a pressure cooker.

3. Ohio contributed more soldiers per-capita than any other state in the Union during the Civil War. Almost 35,000 Ohioans died in the War and some thirty thousand carried battle scars with them for the rest of their lives.

4. Many believe John Spilsbury, a London map maker, was the person who created the first jigsaw puzzle from a map of Europe cut along country boundary lines. In the 1880's the treadle saw allowed

Search This Site Web This Site __________________ Buy Jigsaws Buy great jigsawsfrom All Jigsaw Puzzles. __________________ __________________ Puzzle Trivia There are many famous jigsaw puzzlers. The Queen, Bill Gates Stephen King and Albert Einstein. I think jigsaws are great for relaxing, and losing yourself in a great puzzling time. Jigsaw puzzles are the best game ever! How to solve jigsaw puzzles by sorting, looking for shapes and patterns. Getting started through to gluing the final puzzle. Lots more quick facts in our trivia pages __________________ Seniors Benefits Keep that great brain moving. Socialise with old friends and family over a jigsaw. Enjoy the challenge and the successful completion. There are brilliant large piece puzzles if you need them. More benefits.... __________________ Antique Puzzles Buy stunning rare antique jigsaw puzzles. Fabulous names like Victory, Chad, Tuck Zag Zaw and Zig Zag. Also great advertising jigsaws such as the 1930s Pears puzzle. See our page for antique puzzles. __________________ Puzzle Benefits Jigsaws give you a great way to relax. Lose yourself in the challenge and keep that brain moving. They are a great way to socialise. Nothing beats that feeling of success when you finish. Gaze at the final puzzle with pride. More benefits.... __________________ Family Benefits Get the family together and have a great puzzling time. Talk, laugh and play together, you will feel closer. More benefits.... __________________ Computer Puzzles Create your own computer jigsaw with your own car images. I use Jigtopia to very simply load in images and play great puzzles. Flexible and very simple use. Click here for lots more info. Buy Jigtopia _______________

for better dissection and the name for these puzzles became known as jigsaw puzzles.

5. Recipe:  Silly Putty. Mix together equal parts of Elmer's glue and liquid starch. Sometimes not all the starch is absorbed into the mix, but knead the mixture until as much of the starch is absorbed. May also add food coloring. I like using Wilton's cake colors for homemade playdough. They produce such rich colors. You may want to try them in this recipe too. I have tried other brands of white glue, but I always come back to Elmer's. I get the best results with that brand. Store in a plastic container. May have to drain some starch again after the putty sits overnight.

Working Wednesday: Minimum and Self Reliant Wages

The U.S. Census Bureau recently released a report on poverty in this country. I will be using that report coupled with several other statistics for my comments below:
*46.2 million people/15.1% live at or below the poverty level. This rose for the 4th straight year.
*U.S. unemployment rate is 9.6%. Ohio's August rate was 9.1%.
*14.5% of American households are food insecure--their cupboards are bare on occasion.
*The Census Bureau defines "poor" as any individual living on an income of less than $11,139, or any family of four living on less than $22,314. That measurement was developed over 40 years ago and some feel the equation has flaws.

The Census Bureau is using the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Federal Poverty Guideline. The U.S. Department of Labor has its own definition of poverty--Lower Living Standard Income Level. The income rates are very similar to the Poverty Guidelines, but are nonetheless different. That means 2 separate agencies have their own definitions of poverty which is bureaucracy at its worst.

The reason I am leading off with these statistics is to underscore the importance of a self-reliance wage.
There are 2080 hours in a 40 hour work week in a year. The Census Bureau's definition of poor for a family of four means that those working combined in that household are making approximately no more than $10.00/hr. Minimum Wage in Ohio is $7.40/hr.

And thus the discussion begins: do benefits count when considering hourly wage? In my view they do not because they don't contribute to a household income but others argue they help with medical insurance which would be an out-of-pocket expense if it wasn't covered by insurance.

Here is something else: several jobs are a way of life in some areas of the state--a low paying job and odd jobs/freelance work. The combination barely gets the household by but they are counted together to form a "working wage" for the household. The first job is not self reliant. The employer and the employee knows that.  The supplemental source of income may not be odd jobs. It could very likely be the government. Government programs such as "food stamps", "medical card", WIC, and others provide the support the family counts on to make up the difference. This is not self reliance, but again minimum wage does not support a family of 4. Whatever it is, the first job is not enough. There is always a supplemental source of income.

This is a very complicated situation that involves employers, a skilled workforce, a community with strong standards, and everyone understanding what is at stake if they get selfish. Self reliance begets self esteem, self motivation, self discovery and determination. Workers who are trusted give back and companies who are trusted give back too. It is in everyone's best interest to seriously consider self reliance and what it would mean for their community.

Spiritual Sunday: Sifting through Sand

Did you ever have a sifter designed to use in a sandbox as a child? Usually they were the size of a round cake pan with numerous small holes and you would dip into the sand and gently shake the sand in the sifter. The object was to see what "treasures" you would find. Sometimes these treasures would be buried on purpose and sometimes they had just drifted on their own into the sandbox. Sometimes we would take them to the beach and see if we could find pretty shells buried below the surface.

People will use "sifting through time" or "sifting through the years" as reference to the above activity, referring to memories of days gone by. Usually they are thinking of an important event or perhaps a way of living that has put its mark on history and is no more.

I heard someone mention their parents had recently passed on and now the siblings were sifting through their loved ones' home. They were able to rebuild, if you will, the type of life their parents had led by the evidence they had left. Their belongings, writings, books, etc. confirmed to the children they had led a good life, a life the children could confirm was an honorable one.

What would relatives or those entrusted find when they sift through your home at your passing? Evidence of an honorable life, one of service to others, one that was kind and helpful? One that used your natural/acquired talents and gifts? One that figured out what was really important in life?

We know how to be a good person- say please, tell the truth, give to the poor, etc. Talents/skills/gifts may be harder. So many times we think of these as insurmountable obstacles - time, money, etc. that we don't even try. But we can be a good person and we can use our talents. At the beginning we may have to actually write them into our planner (volunteer at...., sign up for the class......., personal time.......) but gradually they become an integral part of us and our brain just knows what to do. You have the capacity to have an honorable and good life and leave the evidence behind to prove it.

Alone in the Car: Medical Coding

Annually  I make sure I make an appointment to see my gynecologist for an examination and testing for cervical cancer. If this does not apply to you, it is still important and I encourage you to pass this story on to other women.

About 2 years ago there were changes in my insurance coverage so the annual visit became free. Previously there was a co-pay as any other visit to the doctor's, which in my case the doctors in our health insurance plan expect me to pay at the time of the appointment.

My annual falls in December which I did in December, 2010. I recently received a bill from my doctor and it did not list the reason why so I called their business office. It turns out I was receiving a bill from the December visit. But I explained I had come to the office for my annual visit. Yes, they agreed. But since I had discussed other things with the doctor during the visit, it could be coded as more than just my annual visit and the business office was doing just that. Thus I owed the doctor a co-pay since they were putting the paper work through the insurance for reimbursement for the visit.

Do you see what just happened? If I had only said "hi" to the doctor, the doctor performed the pap smear, and I left, the appointment would have been free. But since I had a conversation with the doctor about other things, rightfully so the doctor's office put through paperwork to the insurance with a different medical code. When I called in to make an appointment, the receptionist wrote in the medical code for my annual visit. But when looking a the doctor's notes, the business office figured out they could put my visit through insurance as something else.

This is important for several reasons.

1. Check with your insurance. You may have a similar situation and think your pap smear visit is free but as soon as you bring up other subjects, the business office will bill you for the visit.

2. Most Americans forget that doctors/dentists, etc. are small business owners. They have seen their practices/appointments reduced by 25-50% during this recession. They have had to make decisions too just like any small business.

3. The business office was doing what it was hired to do. I called them up, we had a good conversation, and they deleted my bill, but they didn't have to. I certainly don't blame them for what they are doing. I do wonder about the 9 month lapse.

4. Health insurance is extremely complex and complicated. Obamacare is going to make matters worse. I grew up at a point in history when employers were not involved at all in health insurance. It will be interesting to see the next step in this evolution play out.

5. We need to be very aware. Check your bills, ask for a details, etc. A long time ago when my children were young, I once asked about the cost of a shot. The reply - "oh, your insurance is covering it, so it is free." No, it is not. We have an amount taken out of my husband's check each month. It is definitely not free. Those monthly charges are based on all the statistics the insurance company collects and costs incurred. That shot was a cost.

For business, everything is about their bottom line. For a household, we have to do the same.