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.
Panoramic View
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Monday, November 28, 2011
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?
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?
Friday, November 25, 2011
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
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
- 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.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
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
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
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
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!
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!
Friday, November 18, 2011
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.
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.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
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!
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!
Monday, November 14, 2011
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.
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.
Friday, November 11, 2011
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
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
Thursday, November 10, 2011
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.
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.
Monday, November 7, 2011
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.
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.
Friday, November 4, 2011
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.
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.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
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 20th 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 3rd 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.
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