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.
Panoramic View
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
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.
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.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
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.
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.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
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.
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.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
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
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
Friday, October 14, 2011
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.
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!
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/
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.
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/
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.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
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.
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
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
Friday, October 7, 2011
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.
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.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
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.
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.
Monday, October 3, 2011
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.
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.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
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.
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.
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