golge620

Colonel Sanders

2011-10-31T02:39:00.000-07:00

Harland "Colonel" Sanders

Born	September 9, 1890 Henryville, Indiana, U.S.
Died	December 16, 1980 (aged 90) Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.
Nationality	American
Occupation	Entrepreneur
Religion	Disciples of Christ
Spouse	Josephine King (divorced) Claudia Price
Children	Harland David Sanders, Jr. Margaret Sanders Mildred Sanders Ruggles
Parents	Wilbur David Sanders Margaret Ann Sanders (née Dunlevy)^[1]
Signature	Sanders was born to a Presbyterian family in Henryville, Indiana. His father, Wilbur David Sanders, died when Harland was six years old, and, since his mother worked, he was required to cook for his family. He dropped out of school in seventh grade. When his mother remarried, he ran away from home because his stepfather beat him.^{[citation needed]} Sanders falsified his date of birth and enlisted in the United States Army at the age of sixteen, completing his entire service commitment in Cuba.^[2] During his early years, Sanders held many jobs, including: steamboat pilot, insurance salesman, railroad fireman and farmer.^[3] He had a son, Harland, Jr., who died at an early age, and two daughters, Margaret Sanders and Mildred Sanders Ruggles.^[4]^[5] Harland Sanders at age 20 At the age of 40, Sanders cooked chicken dishes and other meals for people who stopped at his service station in Corbin, Kentucky. Since he did not have a restaurant, he served customers in his adjacent living quarters. His local popularity grew, and Sanders moved to a motel and 142 seat restaurant, later Harland Sanders Café and Museum. Over the next nine years he developed his "secret recipe" for frying chicken in a pressure fryer that cooked the chicken much faster than pan frying. Sanders was given the honorary title "Kentucky Colonel" in 1935 by Governor Ruby Laffoon. He was "re-commissioned" in 1950 by Governor Lawrence Wetherby.^[6] It wasn't until 1950 that Sanders began developing his distinctive appearance, growing his trademark mustache and goatee and donning a white suit and string tie.^[6] He never wore anything else in public during the last 20 years of his life, using a heavy wool suit in the winter and a light cotton suit in the summer.^[3] At age 65, Sanders' store having failed^[3] due to the new Interstate 75 reducing his restaurant's customer traffic, he took $105 from his first Social Security check and began visiting potential franchisees.^[7] Dave Thomas, later founder of Wendy's Old Fashioned Burgers, was offered a chance to turn around a failing Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant. He helped save the restaurant, and revolutionized the fast food industry by simplifying its menu from nearly one hundred items to just basic fried chicken and salads.^[8] The restaurant in Corbin, Kentucky where Colonel Sanders developed Kentucky Fried Chicken Sanders sold the Kentucky Fried Chicken corporation in 1964 for $2 million to a partnership of Kentucky businessmen headed by John Y. Brown, Jr. The deal did not include the Canadian operations. In 1965 Sanders moved to Mississauga, Ontario to oversee his Canadian franchises and continued to collect franchise and appearance fees there and appearance fees in the U.S. (He was locally active. For example, his 80th birthday was held at the Inn on the Park in North York, Ontario, hosted by Jerry Lewis as a Canadian Muscular Dystrophy Association fundraiser.)^[9] In 1973, he sued Heublein Inc. — then parent company of Kentucky Fried Chicken — over alleged misuse of his image in promoting products he had not helped develop. In 1975, Heublein Inc. unsuccessfully sued Sanders for libel after he publicly referred to their gravy as "sludge" with a "wallpaper taste".^[10] Death and legacy Death and legacy Sanders remains the official face of Kentucky Fried Chicken, and appears on its logo Sanders later used his stockholdings to create the Colonel Harland Sanders Trust and Colonel Harland Sanders Charitable Organization, which used the proceeds to aid charities and fund scholarships. His trusts continue to donate money to groups like the Trillium Health Care Centre; a wing of their building specializes in women's and children's care and has been named after him.^[11] The Sidney, British Columbia based foundation granted over $1,000,000 in 2007, according to its 2007 tax return.^[12] Sanders died in Louisville, Kentucky, of pneumonia on December 16, 1980.^[13]^[14] He had been diagnosed with acute leukemia the previous June.^[4] His body lay in state in the rotunda of the Kentucky State Capitol; after a funeral service at the Southern Baptist Seminary Chapel attended by more than 1,000 people. He was buried in his characteristic white suit and black western string tie in Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville. Gravesite of Harland Sanders Since his death, Sanders has been portrayed by voice actors in Kentucky Fried Chicken commercials in radio and an animated version of him has been used for television commercials. A 1982 episode of Little House on the Prairie ("Wave of the Future") paid tribute to KFC by featuring a character implied to be Col. Sanders (portrayed by John Roberts) offering Mrs. Oleson a fried chicken franchise. For legal reasons, this character was listed in the credits as "Bearded Man". Sanders was inducted into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame in 2000. The Japanese Nippon Professional Baseball league has developed an urban legend of the "Curse of the Colonel". A statue of Colonel Sanders was thrown into the river and lost during a 1985 fan celebration, and (according to the legend) the "curse" has caused Japan's Hanshin Tigers to perform poorly since the incident.^[15]

Bill Gates

2011-09-27T02:28:00.000-07:00

Bill Gates

Bill Gates at the World Economic Forum in Davos, 2007

Born

William Henry Gates III
October 28, 1955 (age 55)
Seattle, Washington, U.S.

Residence

Medina, Washington, U.S.

Nationality

American

Alma mater

Harvard University (Dropout)

Occupation

Chairman of Microsoft
Chairman of Corbis
Co-Chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Director of Berkshire Hathaway
CEO of Cascade Investment

Years active

1975–present

Net worth

US$59 billion (2011)^[1]

Religion

Agnostic^[2]

Spouse

Melinda Gates (m. 1994–present)

Children

Parents

William H. Gates, Sr.
Mary Maxwell Gates

Signature

William Henry "Bill" Gates III (born October 28, 1955)^[3] is an American business magnate, investor, philanthropist, author, and former CEO and current chairman of Microsoft, the software company he founded with Paul Allen. He is consistently ranked among the world's wealthiest people^[4] and was the wealthiest overall from 1995 to 2009, excluding 2008, when he was ranked third.^[5] During his career at Microsoft, Gates held the positions of CEO and chief software architect, and remains the largest individual shareholder, with more than 8 percent of the common stock.^[6] He has also authored or co-authored several books.
Gates is one of the best-known entrepreneurs of the personal computer revolution. Although he is admired by many, a number of industry insiders^[who?] criticize his business tactics, which they consider anti-competitive, an opinion which has in some cases been upheld by the courts.^[7]^[8] In the later stages of his career, Gates has pursued a number of philanthropic endeavors, donating large amounts of money to various charitable organizations and scientific research programs through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, established in 2000.
Gates stepped down as chief executive officer of Microsoft in January 2000. He remained as chairman and created the position of chief software architect. In June 2006, Gates announced that he would be transitioning from full-time work at Microsoft to part-time work, and full-time work at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. He gradually transferred his duties to Ray Ozzie, chief software architect, and Craig Mundie, chief research and strategy officer. Gates' last full-time day at Microsoft was June 27, 2008. He remains at Microsoft as non-executive chairman.

Early life

Gates was born in Seattle, Washington, to William H. Gates, Sr. and Mary Maxwell Gates, of English, German, and Scotch-Irish descent.^[9]^[10] His family was upper middle class; his father was a prominent lawyer, his mother served on the board of directors for First Interstate BancSystem and the United Way, and her father, J. W. Maxwell, was a national bank president. Gates has one elder sister, Kristi (Kristianne), and one younger sister, Libby. He was the fourth of his name in his family, but was known as William Gates III or "Trey" because his father had the "II" suffix.^[11] Early on in his life, Gates' parents had a law career in mind for him.^[12] When Gates was young, his family regularly attended a Congregational church.^[13]^[14]^[15]
At 13 he enrolled in the Lakeside School, an exclusive preparatory school.^[16] When he was in the eighth grade, the Mothers Club at the school used proceeds from Lakeside School's rummage sale to buy an Teletype Model 33 ASR terminal and a block of computer time on a General Electric (GE) computer for the school's students.^[17] Gates took an interest in programming the GE system in BASIC, and was excused from math classes to pursue his interest. He wrote his first computer program on this machine: an implementation of tic-tac-toe that allowed users to play games against the computer. Gates was fascinated by the machine and how it would always execute software code perfectly. When he reflected back on that moment, he said, "There was just something neat about the machine."^[18] After the Mothers Club donation was exhausted, he and other students sought time on systems including DEC PDP minicomputers. One of these systems was a PDP-10 belonging to Computer Center Corporation (CCC), which banned four Lakeside students—Gates, Paul Allen, Ric Weiland, and Kent Evans—for the summer after it caught them exploiting bugs in the operating system to obtain free computer time.^[19]
At the end of the ban, the four students offered to find bugs in CCC's software in exchange for computer time. Rather than use the system via Teletype, Gates went to CCC's offices and studied source code for various programs that ran on the system, including programs in FORTRAN, LISP, and machine language. The arrangement with CCC continued until 1970, when the company went out of business. The following year, Information Sciences, Inc. hired the four Lakeside students to write a payroll program in COBOL, providing them computer time and royalties. After his administrators became aware of his programming abilities, Gates wrote the school's computer program to schedule students in classes. He modified the code so that he was placed in classes with mostly female students. He later stated that "it was hard to tear myself away from a machine at which I could so unambiguously demonstrate success."^[18] At age 17, Gates formed a venture with Allen, called Traf-O-Data, to make traffic counters based on the Intel 8008 processor.^[20] In early 1973, Bill Gates served as a congressional page in the U.S. House of Representatives.^[21]
Gates graduated from Lakeside School in 1973. He scored 1590 out of 1600 on the SAT^[22] and enrolled at Harvard College in the autumn of 1973.^[23] While at Harvard, he met Steve Ballmer, who later succeeded Gates as CEO of Microsoft.
In his sophomore year, Gates devised an algorithm for pancake sorting as a solution to one of a series of unsolved problems^[24] presented in a combinatorics class by Harry Lewis, one of his professors. Gates' solution held the record as the fastest version for over thirty years;^[24]^[25] its successor is faster by only one percent.^[24] His solution was later formalized in a published paper in collaboration with Harvard computer scientist Christos Papadimitriou.^[26]
Gates did not have a definite study plan while a student at Harvard^[27] and spent a lot of time using the school's computers. Gates remained in contact with Paul Allen, and he joined him at Honeywell during the summer of 1974.^[28] The following year saw the release of the MITS Altair 8800 based on the Intel 8080 CPU, and Gates and Allen saw this as the opportunity to start their own computer software company.^[29] He had talked this decision over with his parents, who were supportive of him after seeing how much Gates wanted to start a company.^[27]

Microsoft

Main articles: History of Microsoft and Microsoft

BASIC

MITS Altair 8800 Computer with 8-inch (200 mm) floppy disk system

After reading the January 1975 issue of Popular Electronics that demonstrated the Altair 8800, Gates contacted Micro Instrumentation and Telemetry Systems (MITS), the creators of the new microcomputer, to inform them that he and others were working on a BASIC interpreter for the platform.^[30] In reality, Gates and Allen did not have an Altair and had not written code for it; they merely wanted to gauge MITS's interest. MITS president Ed Roberts agreed to meet them for a demo, and over the course of a few weeks they developed an Altair emulator that ran on a minicomputer, and then the BASIC interpreter. The demonstration, held at MITS's offices in Albuquerque, was a success and resulted in a deal with MITS to distribute the interpreter as Altair BASIC. Paul Allen was hired into MITS,^[31] and Gates took a leave of absence from Harvard to work with Allen at MITS in Albuquerque in November 1975. They named their partnership "Micro-Soft" and had their first office located in Albuquerque.^[31] Within a year, the hyphen was dropped, and on November 26, 1976, the trade name "Microsoft" was registered with the Office of the Secretary of the State of New Mexico.^[31] Gates never returned to Harvard to complete his studies.
Microsoft's BASIC was popular with computer hobbyists, but Gates discovered that a pre-market copy had leaked into the community and was being widely copied and distributed. In February 1976, Gates wrote an Open Letter to Hobbyists in the MITS newsletter saying that MITS could not continue to produce, distribute, and maintain high-quality software without payment.^[32] This letter was unpopular with many computer hobbyists, but Gates persisted in his belief that software developers should be able to demand payment. Microsoft became independent of MITS in late 1976, and it continued to develop programming language software for various systems.^[31] The company moved from Albuquerque to its new home in Bellevue, Washington on January 1, 1979.^[30]
During Microsoft's early years, all employees had broad responsibility for the company's business. Gates oversaw the business details, but continued to write code as well. In the first five years, Gates personally reviewed every line of code the company shipped, and often rewrote parts of it as he saw fit.^[33]

IBM partnership

In 1980, IBM approached Microsoft to write the BASIC interpreter for its upcoming personal computer, the IBM PC. When IBM's representatives mentioned that they needed an operating system, Gates referred them to Digital Research (DRI), makers of the widely used CP/M operating system.^[34] IBM's discussions with Digital Research went poorly, and they did not reach a licensing agreement. IBM representative Jack Sams mentioned the licensing difficulties during a subsequent meeting with Gates and told him to get an acceptable operating system. A few weeks later Gates proposed using 86-DOS (QDOS), an operating system similar to CP/M that Tim Paterson of Seattle Computer Products (SCP) had made for hardware similar to the PC. Microsoft made a deal with SCP to become the exclusive licensing agent, and later the full owner, of 86-DOS. After adapting the operating system for the PC, Microsoft delivered it to IBM as PC-DOS in exchange for a one-time fee of $50,000. Gates did not offer to transfer the copyright on the operating system, because he believed that other hardware vendors would clone IBM's system.^[35] They did, and the sales of MS-DOS made Microsoft a major player in the industry.^[36]
Gates oversaw Microsoft's company restructuring on June 25, 1981, which re-incorporated the company in Washington state and made Gates President of Microsoft and the Chairman of the Board.^[30]

Windows

Microsoft launched its first retail version of Microsoft Windows on November 20, 1985, and in August, the company struck a deal with IBM to develop a separate operating system called OS/2. Although the two companies successfully developed the first version of the new system, mounting creative differences undermined the partnership. Gates distributed an internal memo on May 16, 1991, announcing that the OS/2 partnership was over and Microsoft would shift its efforts to the Windows NT kernel development.^[37]

Management style

From Microsoft's founding in 1975 until 2006, Gates had primary responsibility for the company's product strategy. He aggressively broadened the company's range of products, and wherever Microsoft achieved a dominant position he vigorously defended it. He gained a reputation for being distant to others; as early as 1981 an industry executive complained in public that "Gates is notorious for not being reachable by phone and for not returning phone calls."^[38]
As an executive, Gates met regularly with Microsoft's senior managers and program managers. Firsthand accounts of these meetings describe him as verbally combative, berating managers for perceived holes in their business strategies or proposals that placed the company's long-term interests at risk.^[39]^[40] He often interrupted presentations with such comments as, "That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard!"^[41] and, "Why don't you just give up your options and join the Peace Corps?"^[42] The target of his outburst then had to defend the proposal in detail until, hopefully, Gates was fully convinced.^[41] When subordinates appeared to be procrastinating, he was known to remark sarcastically, "I'll do it over the weekend."^[43]^[44]^[45]
Gates' role at Microsoft for most of its history was primarily a management and executive role. However, he was an active software developer in the early years, particularly on the company's programming language products. He has not officially been on a development team since working on the TRS-80 Model 100,^[46] but wrote code as late as 1989 that shipped in the company's products.^[44] On June 15, 2006, Gates announced that he would transition out of his day-to-day role over the next two years to dedicate more time to philanthropy. He divided his responsibilities between two successors, placing Ray Ozzie in charge of day-to-day management and Craig Mundie in charge of long-term product strategy.^[47]

Antitrust litigation

Further information: United States Microsoft antitrust case and European Union Microsoft competition case

Bill Gates giving his deposition at Microsoft on August 27, 1998

Many decisions that led to antitrust litigation over Microsoft's business practices have had Gates' approval. In the 1998 United States v. Microsoft case, Gates gave deposition testimony that several journalists characterized as evasive. He argued with examiner David Boies over the contextual meaning of words like "compete", "concerned" and "we".^[48] BusinessWeek reported:

Early rounds of his deposition show him offering obfuscatory answers and saying 'I don't recall,' so many times that even the presiding judge had to chuckle. Worse, many of the technology chief's denials and pleas of ignorance were directly refuted by prosecutors with snippets of e-mail that Gates both sent and received.^[49]

Gates later said he had simply resisted attempts by Boies to mischaracterize his words and actions. As to his demeanor during the deposition, he said, "Did I fence with Boies? ... I plead guilty. Whatever that penalty is should be levied against me: rudeness to Boies in the first degree."^[50] Despite Gates's denials, the judge ruled that Microsoft had committed monopolization and tying, and blocking competition, both in violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act.^[50]

Appearance in ads

Gates appeared in a series of ads to promote Microsoft in 2008. The first commercial, co-starring Jerry Seinfeld, is a 90-second talk between strangers as Seinfeld walks up on a discount shoe store (Shoe Circus) in a mall and notices Gates buying shoes inside. The salesman is trying to sell Mr. Gates shoes that are a size too big. As Gates is buying the shoes, he holds up his discount card, which uses a slightly altered version of his own mugshot of his arrest in New Mexico in 1977 for a traffic violation.^[51] As they are walking out of the mall, Seinfeld asks Gates if he has melded his mind to other developers, after getting a yes, he then asks if they are working on a way to make computers edible, again getting a yes. Some say that this is an homage to Seinfeld's own show about "nothing" (Seinfeld).^[52] In a second commercial in the series, Gates and Seinfeld are at the home of an average family trying to fit in with normal people.

Post-Microsoft

Since leaving Microsoft, Gates continues his philanthropy and, among other projects, purchased the video rights to the Messenger Lectures series called The Character of Physical Law, given at Cornell University by Richard Feynman in 1964 and recorded by the BBC. The videos are available online to the public at Microsoft's Project Tuva.^[53]^[54]
In April 2010, Gates was invited to visit and speak at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology where he asked the students to take on the hard problems of the world in their futures.^[55]^[56]

Personal life

Bill and Melinda Gates, June 2009

Gates married Melinda French on January 1, 1994. They have three children: daughter Jennifer Katharine Gates (born 1996), son Rory John Gates (born 1999), and daughter Phoebe Adele Gates (born 2002). The Gates's home is an earth-sheltered house in the side of a hill overlooking Lake Washington in Medina. According to King County public records, as of 2006 the total assessed value of the property (land and house) is $125 million, and the annual property tax is $991,000.
His 66,000 sq ft (6,100 m²) estate has a 60-foot (18 m) swimming pool with an underwater music system, as well as a 2,500 sq ft (230 m²) gym and a 1,000 sq ft (93 m²) dining room.^[57]
Also among Gates' private acquisitions is the Codex Leicester, a collection of writings by Leonardo da Vinci, which Gates bought for $30.8 million at an auction in 1994.^[58] Gates is also known as an avid reader, and the ceiling of his large home library is engraved with a quotation from The Great Gatsby.^[59] He also enjoys playing bridge, tennis, and golf.^[60]^[61]
Gates was number one on the Forbes 400 list from 1993 through to 2007 and number one on Forbes list of The World's Richest People from 1995 to 2007 and 2009. In 1999, Gates's wealth briefly surpassed $101 billion, causing the media to call him a "centibillionaire".^[62] Since 2000, the nominal value of his Microsoft holdings has declined due to a fall in Microsoft's stock price after the dot-com bubble burst and the multi-billion dollar donations he has made to his charitable foundations. In a May 2006 interview, Gates commented that he wished that he were not the richest man in the world because he disliked the attention it brought.^[63] Gates has several investments outside Microsoft, which in 2006 paid him a salary of $616,667 and $350,000 bonus totalling $966,667.^[64] He founded Corbis, a digital imaging company, in 1989. In 2004 he became a director of Berkshire Hathaway, the investment company headed by long-time friend Warren Buffett.^[65] In March 2010 Bill Gates was bumped down to the second wealthiest man behind Carlos Slim.

Philanthropy

Gates (second from right) with Bono, Queen Rania of Jordan, Former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, President Umaru Yar'Adua of Nigeria and other participants in a 'Call to Action on the Millennium Development Goals' during the Annual Meeting 2008 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland

Further information: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

Gates began to appreciate the expectations others had of him when public opinion mounted suggesting that he could give more of his wealth to charity. Gates studied the work of Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller, and in 1994 sold some of his Microsoft stock to create the William H. Gates Foundation. In 2000, Gates and his wife combined three family foundations into one to create the charitable Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which is the largest transparently operated charitable foundation in the world.^[66] The foundation allows benefactors access to information regarding how its money is being spent, unlike other major charitable organizations such as the Wellcome Trust.^[67]^[68] The generosity and extensive philanthropy of David Rockefeller has been credited as a major influence. Gates and his father met with Rockefeller several times, and modeled their giving in part on the Rockefeller family's philanthropic focus, namely those global problems that are ignored by governments and other organizations.^[69] As of 2007, Bill and Melinda Gates were the second-most generous philanthropists in America, having given over $28 billion to charity.^[70]
The foundation was at the same time criticized because it invests assets that it has not yet distributed with the exclusive goal of maximizing return on investment. As a result, its investments include companies that have been charged with worsening poverty in the same developing countries where the Foundation is attempting to relieve poverty. These include companies that pollute heavily, and pharmaceutical companies that do not sell into the developing world.^[71] In response to press criticism, the foundation announced in 2007 a review of its investments, to assess social responsibility.^[72] It subsequently canceled the review and stood by its policy of investing for maximum return, while using voting rights to influence company practices.^[73]
Gates's wife urged people to learn a lesson from the philanthropic efforts of the Salwen family, which had sold its home and given away half of its value, as detailed in The Power of Half.^[74] Gates and his wife invited Joan Salwen to Seattle to speak about what the family had done, and on December 9, 2010, Gates, investor Warren Buffett, and Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook's CEO) signed a promise they called the "Gates-Buffet Giving Pledge", in which they promised to donate to charity at least half of their wealth over the course of time.^[75]^[76]^[77]

Recognition

In 1987, Gates was officially declared a billionaire in the pages of Forbes' 400 Richest People in America issue, just days before his 32nd birthday. As the world's youngest self-made billionaire, he was worth $1.25 billion, over $900 million more than he'd been worth the year before, when he'd debuted on the list.^[78]
Time magazine named Gates one of the 100 people who most influenced the 20th century, as well as one of the 100 most influential people of 2004, 2005, and 2006. Time also collectively named Gates, his wife Melinda and U2's lead singer Bono as the 2005 Persons of the Year for their humanitarian efforts.^[79] In 2006, he was voted eighth in the list of "Heroes of our time".^[80] Gates was listed in the Sunday Times power list in 1999, named CEO of the year by Chief Executive Officers magazine in 1994, ranked number one in the "Top 50 Cyber Elite" by Time in 1998, ranked number two in the Upside Elite 100 in 1999 and was included in The Guardian as one of the "Top 100 influential people in media" in 2001.^[81]
In 1994, he was honoured as the twentieth Distinguished Fellow of the British Computer Society. Gates has received honorary doctorates from Nyenrode Business Universiteit, Breukelen, The Netherlands, in 2000;^[82] the Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden, in 2002; invited in 2003 to deliver the keynote address ^[83] of the Golden Jubilee of the Indian Institute of Technology ,held in San Jose, California ^[84]; Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan, in 2005; Tsinghua University, Beijing, China, in April 2007;^[85] Harvard University in June 2007;^[86] the Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, in January 2008,^[87] and Cambridge University in June 2009.^[88] He was also made an honorary trustee of Peking University in 2007.^[89] Gates was also made an honorary Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) by Queen Elizabeth II in 2005,^[90] in addition to having entomologists name the Bill Gates flower fly, Eristalis gatesi, in his honor.^[91]
In November 2006, he and his wife were awarded the Order of the Aztec Eagle for their philanthropic work around the world in the areas of health and education, particularly in Mexico, and specifically in the program "Un país de lectores".^[92] In October 2009, it was announced that Gates will be awarded the 2010 Bower Award for Business Leadership of The Franklin Institute for his achievements in business and for his philanthropic work. In 2010 he was honored with the Silver Buffalo Award by the Boy Scouts of America, its highest award for adults, for his service to youth.^[93]

Investments

Cascade Investments LLC, a private investment and holding company, incorporated in United States, is controlled by Bill Gates, and is headquartered in the city of Kirkland, Washington.
bgC3, a new think-tank company founded by Bill Gates.
Corbis, a digital image licensing and rights services company.
TerraPower, a nuclear reactor design company.

Soichiro Honda Biography God OF Business

2011-09-23T00:45:00.000-07:00

Born: November 17, 1906
Iwata-gun, Japan
Died: August 5, 1991
Tokyo, Japan
Japanese businessman

An independent person in a country not known for its willingness to accept nonconformists (those that do not cooperate with customs), Soichiro Honda created an automobile giant despite the opposition of the Japanese government. One of his company's cars, the Accord, was a best-selling model in the American market.

Early life

The first son of blacksmith Gihei Honda and his wife Mika, Soichiro Honda was born on November 17, 1906, in rural Iwata-gun, Japan. In 1922 he graduated from the Futamata Senior Elementary School. Honda had little tolerance for formal education and jumped at every opportunity he had to work with his true love: motors. Throughout his life Honda never forgot the impression that was made on him when he sighted his first automobile.
After leaving school Honda began his career as an apprentice (a person who works to gain experience in a trade) auto repairman for Arto Shokai in Tokyo. In 1928 he returned to his hometown as a master mechanic and soon established a branch shop for the firm in Hamamatsu, Japan.

Building an empire

During this time Honda also participated in auto races and became interested in cars and motorcycles. Soon he was experimenting with engines, and in 1928 he organized the Tohai Seiki Company to manufacture piston rings, some of which were sold to Toyota, a major Japanese car manufacturer.
Honda's first attempts at the personal motor business came in the mid-1940s when he designed and manufactured a small engine that could be attached to a bicycle to create a motorbike. The venture proved a great success.
Encouraged by his early success, in 1948 he organized the Honda Motor Company. The following year Honda manufactured a small motorcycle called the "Dream D" and prepared to enter the highly competitive Japanese market, which he did through effective advertising. Within a decade Honda was the leading motorcycle manufacturer in the world and had a larger share of the American motorcycle market than Toyota and Nissan (with its Datsun cars) had in automobiles.
Now Soichiro Honda attracted press attention, and, unlike most Japanese businessmen, he loved it. A small but talkative man, he was the opposite of what westerners imagined Japanese businessmen to be. For example, he promoted executives on the basis of performance rather than age, an unusual practice at large Japanese firms. Honda continued racing autos and motorcycles, dressed casually, and took pride in maintaining his independence from the Japanese business establishment. In addition, Honda openly voiced his admiration of American business practices and way of life.

Automobiles

This was at a time when the powerful Ministry of Trade and Industry (MITI) was

Soichiro Honda.
Reproduced by permission of

AP/Wide World Photos

trying to unite several small companies into a third large one to compete with Toyota and Nissan. MITI and the Department of Transportation tried to discourage Honda from adding to the number of companies, but he persisted. He won MITI's permission by coming out with a low-priced small sportscar, the S 500, which was different from anything produced by the other companies. He followed it up with other sports models. His company was still very small, producing only three thousand cars in 1966—half of what Toyota was turning out in a week. Honda introduced the Civic to the American market in 1972. It got thirty-nine miles per gallon (mpg) on the road and twenty-seven mpg in city driving, remarkably efficient for an automobile. The popularity of the Civic rose throughout the 1970s, and in 1980 Honda sold 375,000 cars in the American market—almost three times as many as Subaru and twice as many as Mazda, but still behind Toyota and Nissan. The reasons for this success were obvious: Honda combined high quality with efficiency and economy. But his small cars still appealed to a limited market.

Transforming Honda

In the late 1970s and early 1980s Honda expanded his car company overseas. In 1979 he opened a motorcycle plant near Columbus, Ohio, and an auto plant followed soon after, prompting other Japanese companies to follow his lead. In the late 1970s Toyota and Nissan sold one-third of their cars to the United States, while Honda sold half of his in that market.
Soichiro Honda did not directly supervise these introductions or the development of overseas plants in the United States and Europe. He resigned in 1973, but stayed at the company as "supreme adviser." In 1988 he became the first Japanese carmaker to be inducted into the Automobile Hall of Fame. Honda died of liver failure August 5, 1991, in a Tokyo hospital. Honda's rise from humble beginnings to a powerful and influential businessman is one of twentieth century's most inspirational stories.

For More Information

Kotkin, Joel. "Mr. Iacocca, Meet Mr. Honda." Inc. (November 1986).
Sakiya, Tetsuo. Honda Motor: The Man, the Management, and the Machines. New York: Kodansha International, 1982.
Sanders, Sol. Honda: The Man and His Machine. Boston: Little, Brown, 1975.

Master Of Business F. W. Woolworth

2011-09-23T00:43:00.001-07:00

F. W. Woolworth
AKA Frank Winfield Woolworth
Born: 13-Apr-1852
Birthplace: Rodman, NY
Died: 8-Apr-1919
Location of death: New York City
Cause of death: Infection
Remains: Buried, Woodlawn Cemetery, Bronx, NY
Gender: Male
Religion: Methodist
Race or Ethnicity: White
Sexual orientation: Straight
Occupation: Business
Party Affiliation: Republican
Nationality: United States
Executive summary: Five and dime magnate
At 20 years of age F. W. Woolworth found work in exchange for room and board at a local dry goods store, and after his employers held a successful clearance sale he saw the possibilities of a discount store. His key innovations were having the merchandise on open display instead of behind the counter, and having prices plainly marked instead of encouraging haggling. With borrowed funds he opened his first F.W. Woolworth store in the outskirts of Utica, New York in 1879, but the store closed the following year. Deciding that his problem had been a poor location, he opened a new store in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania in 1881. Within months he was opening multiple stores in business partnerships with local retailers, and within a few years Woolworth was a millionaire. In 1909 he opened his first store in England, and in 1913 the company opened its new headquarters in New York's Woolworth Building -- then the tallest building in the world.
Woolworth had a deep fear of dentists, allowing his teeth to rot, and died of a dental infection in 1919. The company had more than 1,000 stores at the time of his death, and with lunch counters in many stores, Woolworth was America's largest restaurant chain through the 1940s. The company peaked as the world's largest department store chain in the late 1970s, with more than 4,000 stores. By the late 1990s business was sputtering, and the company closed all of its American department stores, renamed itself Venator, and sold the Woolworth Building. In 2003 Venator renamed itself after the conglomerate's most successful division, Foot Locker, Inc. Under separate ownership, Woolworth stores are still operated in Austria, Germany, Mexico, South Africa, and the United Kingdom.
Woolworth's daughter married Franklyn Laws Hutton, brother of E. F. Hutton, and eventually killed herself. His granddaughter was the unbalanced socialite Barbara Hutton.
Father: John Hubbell Woolworth (farmer, b. 16-Apr-1821)
Mother: Fanny McBrier Woolworth (m. 14-Jan-1851)
Brother: Charles Sumner Woolworth ("Sum", founder of C. S. Woolworth dept. stores, b. 1-Aug-1856)
Wife: Jennie Creighton Woolworth (b. circa 1853, m. 11-Jun-1876, d. 1924, three daughters)
Daughter: Helena Maud Woolworth McCann (b. 17-Jul-1878)
Daughter: Edna Woolworth (b. 1883, d. 1918)
Daughter: Jessie May Woolworth Donahue
University: Watertown Commercial College, Watertown, NY
Woolworth Founder & President (1879-1919)

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Master of Business Rowland Hussey Macy

2011-09-23T00:42:00.001-07:00

Rowland Hussey Macy

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Rowland Hussey Macy, Sr.

Born	August 30, 1822 Nantucket Island, Massachusetts
Died	March 29, 1877 (aged 54) Paris
Cause of death	Bright's disease
Resting place	Woodlawn Cemetery
Nationality	American
Known for	R.H. Macy and Company
Spouse	Louisa Houghton
Children	Rowland Hussey Macy, Jr. (1847-1878) Florence Macy (1853–1933), wife of James F. Sutton
Parents	John Macy (1786-1849) Elizabeth (nee Myrick) Barnard (1790–1877)

Rowland Hussey Macy, Sr. (August 30, 1822 – March 29, 1877) was an American businessman who founded the department store chain R.H. Macy and Company.

[edit] Life and career

Macy was the fourth of six children born to a Quaker family on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. At the age of fifteen, he worked on the whaling ship, the Emily Morgan, and had a red star tattooed on his hand that became part of the store's logo.^[1] He married Louisa Houghton (1820–1888) in 1844, and had two children: Rowland Hussey Macy, Jr. (1847–1878); and Florence Macy (1853–1933), who married James F. Sutton.^[2]
Between 1843 and 1855, Macy opened four retail dry goods stores, including the original Macy's store in downtown Haverhill, Massachusetts, established in 1851 to serve the mill industry employees of the area. They all failed, but he learned from his mistakes. Macy moved to New York City in 1858 and established a new store named "R.H Macy Dry Goods" at Sixth Avenue on the corner of 14th Street, significantly north of other dry goods stores of the time.^[3]^[4] On the company's first day of business on October 28, 1858 sales totaled $11.08, equal to $279.82 today.
As the business grew, Macy's expanded into neighboring buildings, opening up more and more departments, and used publicity devices such as a store Santa Claus, themed exhibits, and illuminated window displays to draw in customers.^[5] It offered a money back guarantee, although it only accepted cash into the 1950s. The store also produced its own made-to-measure clothing for both men and women, assembled in an on-site factory.^[4] The store later moved to 18th Street and Broadway, on the "Ladies' Mile", the elite shopping district of the time, where it remained for nearly forty years.

R.H. Macy's monument at Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx

In 1875, Macy took on two partners, Robert M. Valentine (1850–1879), a nephew; and Abiel T. La Forge (1842–1878) of Wisconsin, who was the husband of a cousin.^[6]^[7]
Macy died on March 29, 1877 in Paris of Bright's disease.^[8] He was interred in the Woodlawn Cemetery in The Bronx, New York. His will was probated on May 1, 1877, and he left his wife, Louisa H. "absolutely, all the paraphernalia, wearing apparel, watches, rings, trinkets, jewels, and personal ornaments reputed to belong to her, and during her life, the use of all the household furniture, books, clocks, bronzes, and works of art". At her death this was to pass to his daughter Florence. He left only a small annuity for his son.^[2] The following year, in 1878, Macy's partner La Forge died, and the third partner, Valentine, died in 1879.^[6]^[7] Ownership of the store passed to the Macy's family until 1895, when it was sold to Isidor and Nathan Straus.

[edit] In popular culture

Macy was portrayed in the 1947 movie Miracle on 34th Street by character actor Harry Antrim. In subsequent adaptations of the story, the character was played by Don Beddoe in an episode of The 20th Century-Fox Hour in 1955, Hiram Sherman in a 1959 TV movie, and David Doyle in a 1973 TV film.^[9]

[edit] See also

R.H. Macy and Company Store (building) for the history of the flagship store on Herald Square in Manhattan
Macy's for a history of the chain
Macy's, Inc. for a history of Federated Department Stores, owners of Macy's

[edit] References

Notes

^ Evans, Stephen (2005-03-01). "The death of the department store". news.bbc.co.uk (BBC News). Retrieved 2008-11-02.
^ ^a ^b "Rowland H. Macy's Will". New York Times. May 1, 1877, Wednesday. Retrieved 2008-06-14. "The will of Rowland H. Macy, the well known Sixth-avenue merchant, has been filed in the Surrogate's Court. He leaves to his widow, Louisa H., "absolutely, all the paraphernalia, wearing apparel, watches, rings, trinkets, jewels, and personal ornaments reputed to belong to her, and during her life, the use of all the household furniture, books, clocks, bronzes, and works of art ..."
^ Robbins, L.H. (February 12, 1933). "The City Department Store: Evolution of 75 Years. The Macy Anniversary Directs Attention to the Development of The Great Institutions That Serve the American Shopper.". New York Times. Retrieved 2008-06-14. "For long after Captain Rowland H. Macy opened a fancy-goods shop in Sixth Avenue just below Fourteenth Street in 1858, seventy-five years ago, there was no department store in all the world. There were already merchant princes in New York, but they were specialists."
^ ^a ^b Abelson, Elaine S. "R. H. Macy" in Jackson, Kenneth T. (ed.), The Encyclopedia of New York City (2nd edition). New Haven: Yale University Press, 2010. ISBN 978-0-300-11465-2, p.1102
^ Burrows, Edwin G. & Wallace, Mike (1999). Gotham: A History of New York City to 1898. New York: Oxford University Press. ISBN 0195116348., pp.945-946
^ ^a ^b "Abiel T. La Forge". New York Times. February 13, 1878, Wednesday. Retrieved 2008-06-14.
^ ^a ^b "Robert M. Valentine's Will". New York Times. February 26, 1879, Wednesday. Retrieved 2008-06-14. "The will of Robert M. Valentine, late partner in the firm of R. H. Macy Co., was offered for probate yesterday in the Surrogate's office."
^ "Rowland H. Macy, Merchant". New York Times. March 31, 1877, Wednesday. Retrieved 2008-06-14.
^ "Mr. R.H. Macy" on IMDB

Further reading

This Weekend’s LoA Success Story!

2011-09-23T00:34:00.001-07:00

This Weekend’s LoA Success Story!

I suppose one way of manifesting your own Law of Attraction Success Stories is to start a website called, “Law of Attraction Success Stories,” and travel the entire country in search of them. Let me tell you how this past weekend went…
As usual, last week, I attempted to connect with LoA enthusiasts in two ways. Formerly I just sent direct messages to LoA groups via the Meetup.com website. But, then I met Brittany Rose, a 21-year-old college student who operates More Than Cheer!, a cheerleading consulting company in Richmond, Virginia. For some reason I felt moved to ask her for suggestions as to how I might reach more people in the various cities where I’d be traveling. Her response?

“Maybe try Facebook ads. They’ve worked for me.”

So I did. In fact it was a Facebook ad to which Herbie Muench responded last week prior to my trip to Chicago. Herbie is a fantastic guy with many years of experience in the area of Personal Development, Life Coaching and the Law of Attraction. We originally planned to meet Saturday evening, but he later called to reschedule for Sunday evening since he also wanted me to meet his lovely associate and life partner, Shakti Bracilano, herself a Certified Life Coach through the Hendricks Institute and an Osho Meditation teacher.

Herbie Muench

We met in the lobby of the Embassy Suites Hotel O’Hare for a preliminary introduction. Shakti asked me about my work, and I explained that on weekends I travel the country, putting on group presentations, but that my primary career has been as a Voice Talent. (See JonathanLockwood.com for my voice talent website and to listen to my demos.) Both Herbie and Shakti fell back in their chairs in amazement. It took them a couple of minutes to recover, while I tried to guess at the reason for their reaction. Understand that I very rarely run into anyone who does what I do, and people are normally quite uninformed about the field. Finally Shakti spoke…

“For years I’ve been a talent agent–specifically focusing on Voice Talent. I work with a major agency in Chicago, and as a rule do not accept calls from prospective Voice Talent. But you, Jonathan Lockwood, are the Master Manifestor, because you somehow found a way to get me to drive right to your hotel to meet you!”

At the beginning of each day, I meditate, asking the Universe to bring me certain things “in ways I both expect and don’t expect, so that I am constantly amazed at my ability to co-create these things.” (This language was borrowed from Dr. Joe Dispenza’s “Create My Day” piece from the film, “What the Bleep Do We Know?”) I start by asking for more and bigger clients in my Voice Talent work, then move on, asking to find interested and interesting people as I make my way through the U.S. in search of Law of Attraction Success Stories. It’s true that I see myself as already having manifested these things, and I feel the wonderful feelings of already having them. But I can say without question that I never imagined finding an LoA Success Story participant who was ALSO a Voice Talent Agent at a major market agency! This combined both my primary requests of the Universe–and, although I’m not sure how or when Ms. Bracilano and I might work together in the future, indeed brought me this potential in a way I did NOT expect! And the fact that this manifestation WAS so unexpected is further motivation to continue doing what I’m doing, both manifesting my intentions while remaining open to new inspirations.

Shakti Bracilano

Another thing worth mentioning… A young man named Frank Serritella responded to one of my meetup.com messages, and I gave him a call. He told me that he was relatively new to the LoA, and didn’t think he yet had any stories worth mentioning–but would certainly enjoy connecting with others who did, so I encouraged him to join us. To me it felt like a universally-arranged evening. Herbie and Shakti were positively flowing with rich experiences and wisdom, I was the facillitator feeling his way along a similar path, and Frank was the eager beginner, soaking it all in and enjoying it thoroughly. I have at least a couple of hours of video, including all three of them, and we later were even joined by a couple of my close personal friends who I hope benefitted from the experience.
My former video editing tutor has become unavailable, so I’m presently looking for a new one. Then I’ll finally be able to get these fantastic videos posted for everyone’s edification.
Friend, I don’t know where you are with the Law of Attraction, but I’m living in almost constant astonishment.

Podcast #3: Sonia M. Miller

2011-09-23T00:33:00.002-07:00

Interested in finally making this LoA thing work? (If not, why are you here? ;o) ) Well today you’ve come to the right place. I’ve subscribed to Sonia Miller’s blog for quite awhile, and now I know why. Really well-written information for people struggling with manifesting their intentions, from someone who has been studying, experimenting and working on it for over twenty years.
You’ve heard of the three-step process popularized by “The Secret”? (1. Ask 2. Believe 3. Receive) Well Sonia agrees with it wholeheartedly–while identifying an incredibly important step she squeezes in between Steps 2 and 3. Find out what it is.

Sonia's Book

Oh, and check out the reviews of her book on Amazon. It will be hard to resist adding it to your Shopping Cart. It’s entitled, “The Attraction Distraction: Why the Law of Attraction Isn’t Working for You…and How to Get Results–FINALLY!”
Enjoy the interview!
Click here to save as mp3.

Michael Jackson: Why Are We Crying?

2011-09-23T00:33:00.000-07:00

It’s the question I keep asking. Why?
On Tuesday, July 7th, I should have been working in my studio as normal. My wife and I should have driven to our health club for a workout. We should have done the things we normally do, along about the time we normally do them.
But we didn’t.
Instead we spent that Tuesday, watching the memorial service held for Michael Jackson, subsequent televised coverage, listening to his music, and talking about all things related to his life and death. I’m wondering why.
And my question shouldn’t be misunderstood, because I’m not suggesting he is undeserving of our tears, or that any of us should be expected to explain them. I just want to understand why, because I sense the reasons are more profound than we think.
ANSWERS
They’ve been quite simple, and mostly revolve around one realization:

“He is simply the greatest entertainer that ever lived.” -Berry Gordy

Yes, in answer to my question, I hear…
-”His music and performances have inspired people everywhere on earth.”
-”He was a true innovator; a legitimate genius.”
-”He changed the direction of and set all-new standards for the music industry.”
Sometimes people make noteworthy comments about Michael’s contributions as a humanitarian. They also point out the positive messages often found in his music.
So is this it? Is this the reason why the world has been put on “pause”? Why nearly every media form seems to be dedicated to coverage of his funeral and retrospectives of his life? Why almost all of the conversations I’ve had in the last two weeks have had a Michael Jackson component?
Again, I think there’s more to it.
RIVETING ENTERTAINER

I haven’t heard anyone attempt to deny that Jackson was, at the very least, one of the greatest entertainers in history. From his early days with the Jackson 5 to the recent images we’ve seen of rehearsals for anticipated, upcoming concerts, Michael dressed, sang and moved in ways that both delighted and captivated the world.
I grew up in a small town in northern Michigan, then an entirely white region in which the music–especially the music listened to by teenage males–was predominantly hard rock. Van Halen, Ted Nugent and Ozzy Osbourne blasted loudly from our cassette decks. Still, when Thriller hit, it hit hard. This sound might not have been what we were used to, but it oozed an intensity that seemed new and exciting. And who was that playing guitar on “Beat It”? Jesus H. Christ, if it wasn’t Eddie Van Halen himself!!!

In the years to come, even when my musical tastes took me down another path, Michael was hard to avoid. You had to give him credit for his talent–and his awareness of what people would like. He achieved a worldwide recognition that (in my knowledge) only Elvis Presley and The Beatles might have been able to claim. There were stars, and there were super-duper stars, and Michael Jackson was at the top of the latter list. With reports of unbelievable riches and a team of bodyguards to protect him from insane, screaming fans, his fame was awesome to comprehend. COMPELLING STORY

The story of the Jackson family is the sort of thing we like to hear about. A dirt poor family figures out a way to make it big. Though Dad is demanding and abusive, he fuels the children from dire poverty to fame and fortune. The fact that the lead singer of this family band was just a little kid made other little kids amazed–and their parents amused. But that wasn’t the only reason I paid special attention to them.

“Did you hear the Jackson 5 are Jehovah’s Witnesses?!”

This gave me a thrill. Being raised in a religion largely regarded as a kooky cult by the rest of the world, hearing that The Jackson 5 were JWs provided a bit of credibility. “We might be religious nuts, but we’re religious nuts who call the Jackson 5 our spiritual brothers!” Later Michael would tell stories about going from door-to-door, just like us, but in disguises so as not to draw attention.
Now and then some of the people in my congregation expressed doubts that the Jacksons truly were Jehovah’s Witnesses. But my brother-in-law’s brother once wrote me after traveling to a JW convention in California, sharing that he sat right next to Rebbie and LaToya, and chatted with them a bit.
I heard about how The Watchtower Society, the legal body behind Jehovah’s Witnesses, spoke with Michael about some of his Thriller video imagery. For us, this sort of thing was considered spiritistic and demonized. As a result, Michael provided a disclaimer on the video…

“Due to my strong personal convictions, I wish to stress that this film in no way endorses a belief in the occult.-Michael Jackson.”

Michael was also quoted in the May 22, 1984, Awake!, a JW magazine, as promising that the content in the video was a mistake, and exclaiming, “I would never do it again!”
In the book, Michael Jackson: The Magic and The Madness, by J. Randy Taraborreli, the author indicates that this was not what Michael wanted, but “when the elders threatened to force him to leave the religion, Michael became extremely upset,” and provided this statement to keep from being disfellowshipped.
I found out that, in 1987, Michael did what it would take me another seventeen years to do: he left the Jehovah’s Witnesses. Perhaps, like me, he came to see that the religion wasn’t what he thought it was, and that subjecting oneself to the moral dictates of a group of men was wrong.
While I remained a zealous JW–even becoming an elder myself and assuming a position of authority in my congregation–I still found certain negative comments made about Michael to be unsettling. Another elder, an African-American who admitted he’d grown up enjoying Michael’s music, now smirked at his lyrics from “The Man in the Mirror.”

“He says, “If you wanna make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and then make a change.” But the only way this world is gonna be a better place is through God’s Kingdom, which Jehovah God will bring himself–not through the efforts of any man!”

This seemed like a reach to me. Was there really something wrong with ‘taking a look at yourself and making a change?’ I knew Michael was no longer one of us, but I considered it petty to find fault so easily.
APPARENT STRANGENESS

What do you get when you take Michael Jackson, and subtract all of the weird stories and reported eccentricities? I’ll suggest that you get an entertainer who is every bit as talented–but somewhat less famous.

While the adage, “no publicity is bad publicity,” may not always hold true, it often does when you’re a marvelously gifted entertainer. The glove on one hand might have seemed like a simple gimmick, but when the media and the rumor mill started speculating about it, it became something more. Then came news about him sleeping in a hyperbaric chamber, submitting an offer to purchase the Elephant Man’s skeletal remains, and traveling around with a chimpanzee. Some called him a nutcase, while others stood back and smiled.
From an early age I tended not to trust everything I heard. I had enough personal experiences to demonstrate the folly in doing so. I didn’t know what was true and what wasn’t about this guy, and these things seemed harmless enough anyway. I formed the impression that Michael was, if nothing else, an interesting, multi-dimensional character. While I knew that these oddities were contributing to the attention he received, I also got the impression that he (usually) came by them honestly.
What happens when you get together with old friends? You remember stories. Stories, which among other things, recall the intimate details and unusual minutiae that form your fondest memories. In the same way, over the course of many years, we had plenty of stories to tell about Michael Jackson. Celebrities whose lives seem normal are not as interesting to us as celebrities whose lives are unusual. Through all the bizarre stories, he gave us a lot to pay attention to, as he worked his way into our lives.
ALLEGATIONS OF ABUSE
In 1993 Jackson was accused of child sexual abuse by a 13-year-old boy and his father. A few years later I would have the experience of chairing a judicial committee, hearing the case of an elder in our congregation who was similarly charged. I’ve found this subject one of the most difficult for persons to cope with rationally.
People are clearly filled with disgust at anyone who would harm a child in this way. But I’ve noticed that some exhibit a disingenuous demeanor when the topic arises. In dramatized tones they call for the death or dismemberment of any so accused. “Innocent until proven guilty” does not seem to apply when it comes to pedophilia. Does it seem to you that people are often just posturing when they seethe about things like this, hoping to prove by their passion that they are not themselves pedophiles?
In the committee that I chaired, the accused was found guilty. To this day, I am confident that we considered all the evidence fairly and gave this man every opportunity to provide facts and testimony to the contrary. The experience was exhausting, swallowing up four months of my life, but I’m left with some important conclusions.
1) Pedophiles were, in most cases, victims of this abuse themselves. When they are ten year old victims, we want to gather them up in our arms and protect them, but later when they’re thirty year old perpetrators we want to kill them. Yes, we must ensure they are kept AWAY from children, whether that’s in a prison cell or some other secure arrangement. But let’s not let our anger at the individual overshadow what we really need to do here: attempt to halt the cycle of sexual abuse by identifying it quickly and providing the child with the most effective therapy we can give them.
2) There is a strong archetypal model of “protecting innocent children,” and for good reason. But our heroic zeal can handicap our good judgment. Sometimes we can think something is true when it really isn’t, can’t we? And when the charge is pedophilia, we had better have a lot more than a “strong gut feeling” to so condemn a person. Further, if someone is found “guilty” of sexual abuse, there should be powerful consequences, but if he is found “not guilty,” we cannot fairly continue to brand him as evil for the rest of his life.
I know that some of the stories surrounding Michael Jackson’s sleepovers can sound bad. And I do not blame you for thinking there might have been something very wrong going on there. But it reminds me of another judicial committee that came before another body of elders when I was a JW.
There was a JW woman who was both mentally impaired and (for clarity’s sake) considered extremely unattractive physically. A circumstance arose in which she spent the night at the

New York Rep. Peter King

house of a particular non-JW man. Now, official Jehovah’s Witness guidelines provided to elders stated that “spending all night alone with someone of the opposite sex” could be used as evidence of fornication. Let’s skip past how weird it is for a bunch of guys to sit around and cast judgment upon someone like this, and move on to the conclusion they came to. They recognized that, although spending all night with someone of the opposite sex can mean they had sex, it does not mean that they must have done so.

“I would say that an adult male who sleeps with young boys is a child molester.” -New York Congressman, Peter King

Again, I’m not bothered by people who question what was going on at Jackson’s pajama parties. Sorry to say, after seeing what I have seen, I can’t say I’m completely convinced myself. But I’ll also admit I wouldn’t be surprised if nothing sexual occurred at all. Looking at him myself, in all honesty, I see a fragile little kid. The idea that he somehow lost his childhood and was trying to recapture it is perfectly consistent with everything else we know about him. Neverland? During the investigation, Michael was examined by mental health professional, Dr. Stan Katz, who, after spending several hours with him, concluded that he was a regressed 10-year-old, and did not fit the profile of a pedophile. The mother of the original accuser came forward to say adamantly that she did not believe Michael did anything wrong.
How many times have we heard this question: “So would yoooouuu let your child stay all night with Michael Jackson???” A fair person can certainly answer “no,” while still choosing not to forever demonize a man whom twelve people in a court of law agreed was “not guilty.” An honest person might privately express their personal doubts, but the idea that an elected State Representative would go on national television to both dishonor our nation’s legal system and angrily denounce a recently dead man is preposterous. If he disagrees with the media’s intense focus on things like this, (and there are valid points to be raised in this regard,) maybe he could make his point without spitting on the man’s grave with such a slew of thoroughly ignorant statements.
Okay, I’ve gone off on a tangent; sorry. But let’s apply these allegations of abuse to the question asked by this article.
Michael had (wittingly and unwittingly) already maneuvered his way into our hearts, and now he’s being accused of an horrific act. Regardless of your particular viewpoint, this controversy injected even more emotion into our “friendship” with the man. These accusations cut right to the heart of who he is and who we are, based upon the position we take regarding the accusations. Did you immediately defend him as you would a beloved brother? Did you feel disappointed in him him as you might have in a friend with whom you were frustrated? Did you become righteously indignant and denounce him as you might a castoff cousin? Despite the specific reaction, one thing is certain: your virtual relationship had become bigger.
HUMANITARIAN
I have found the following statement posted all over the internet…

“In the Millennium-Issue of the “Guinness Book of World Records,” Michael Jackson is named as the Pop Star who supports the most number of charity organizations.”

I have no trouble believing this is true, but I’ve become suspicious since I cannot find any verification of it. Although the Guinness site contains plenty of MJ records–and even a video in which Michael is welcomed and lauded by the Guinness Editor in Chief–I find no reference whatsoever to this claim about charity.
Regardless, there is no question that Michael Jackson spent an extraordinary amount of time and energy on humanitarian causes. In addition to personally contributing to many, many charities, he also launched enormous campaigns to raise more funds for them too. The sources I’ve found indicate that the grand tally is at least in the hundreds of millions of dollars.
If you ever listened to Jackson speak on the subject, you know he did so at length and with strong feelings about helping others. As compared to the number of celebrities who appear to be so self absorbed, this quality has endeared him to many throughout the world.

“He epitomized the words of our father that an individual hasn’t started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of humanity.” -Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King, Jr., during Jackson’s memorial service

THE MEDIA

“The mainstream and once contemplative media has now become infused and morphed as one with the Paparazzi. As a seasoned journalist, I am now thoroughly embarrassed to call myself one, hence the hatred and scorn of what my profession and what I once felt was my “calling”. To admit one is a journalist now is akin to confessing an immorality of the worst kind.” -Francesca Biller-Safran, as appearing in The Huffington Post

In his 1964 book, “Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man,” Canadian educator and philosopher, Marshall McLuhan, coined the phrase, “the medium is the message.” I recall being exposed to his writing around 1993, but confess that I have only truly grasped his meaning in the last two weeks. He makes the point that the content offered by media has less impact on a society than the nature of the media itself. He likens the media’s content to a juicy piece of meat carried by a burglar to distract the watchdog of the mind. His point was that, while we are focusing on the obvious, namely the content intended to educate or entertain us, we are largely missing the structural changes in our affairs that are introduced subtly, or over long periods of time. Again, McLuhan made these points in 1964! My take? He may turn out to have been one of the great prophets of my lifetime. And it applies to the subject at hand.

Walter Cronkite, CBS Evening News

The changes that have occurred–in the news media alone–over the last three or four decades are utterly astonishing. Television news prided itself on being unbiased and no-nonsense. This is just not something that can be claimed today. CBS network news anchor, Walter Cronkite, would have briefly reported the death of Michael Jackson on the evening news. If he had known Jackson or any of his family, he probably would have phoned to give his condolences. He would no doubt have been personally saddened by the news. But he most definitely would not have set up his news desk outside the Staples Center for a multi-hour extravaganza, joined by music producer Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds.
This isn’t something easily explained to those who are too young to remember–or who just weren’t paying attention. They may seem offended when such a thing is questioned, as if this inquiry is an attempt to somehow discredit the genius of Michael Jackson.
Imagine there’s a traveling circus of epic proportions, featuring all of the world’s greatest entertainers. In each country where they perform, they find some high-profile individual to act as the clown for this event. Who will they pick from the United States? Robin Williams? Jim Carrey? “I know!” someone says, “let’s get Barack Obama!” And imagine Barack Obama actually does it! He dons a furry, orange wig, puts on a big, red clown nose, and drives in on a little clown car. The leader of the free world jumps out, honking a horn, juggling balls and waving all day long.
An exaggeration? Sure, but I’ll bet “clown” is just what Edward R. Murrow would have considered himself if he ended up spearheading an hours-long broadcast from outside a celebrity’s memorial service.
Walter Cronkite was affectionately referred to as “the most trusted man in America,” not because of the celebrities he snuggled up to, a knack for generating advertising revenue, nor for his political correctness. You know how “fair and balanced” he was? Only in recent years have his personal political perspectives been identified. Turns out he leans quite left–but, unlike today, you’d never have known it from his reporting. The news was considered something serious; a newsperson’s credibility and reputation could not be jeopardized by anything that distracted from the sober, objective reporting of the news.

“The network news anchors seemed befuddled by their roles in an unprecedented bit of communal mourning.” -Mark A. Perigard / Television Review

“Some network anchors seemed a bit mortified by their own unstinting and reverential coverage. Brian Williams of NBC, who sat on a special platform outside the Staples Center, told his colleague Lester Holt that the public had a way of deciding for itself what matters, “despite, at some times, the news media’s better wishes.” He added ruefully, “And this is an event because it is.””-Alessandra Stanley, writing in The New York Times

Even the aforementioned Babyface, both a successful performer and accomplished producer who knew Michael personally–and did a fine job in doing what he was asked to do–seemed uncomfortable in his role as “color commentator” alongside CBS News anchor and managing editor, Katie Couric. Shouldn’t CBS have sent their “entertainment reporter” for this? Well we can’t have that. If the other networks are sending Charlie Gibson and Brian Williams, we have no choice but to send Couric, do we? And this is the case why? Because what mattered more than credibility and reputation was ratings. And ratings mean…money. End of story.

Brian Williams, NBC Nightly News

Again, to people who are unaware of the role major news organizations used to play in our society, this is worthy of a simple shrug. To them, the idea that a tragic event surrounding a celebrity will be hyped day and night, seems perfectly natural, be it from “Entertainment Tonight,” “The National Enquirer,” or “NBC Nightly News.” And in the end…they’re right. When are the rest of us going to get it? The major news organizations are just not what they used to be. Journalistic judgment has been replaced by the pursuit of ratings, and there is precious little attempt to deny it these days. The medium has indeed become the message. What were the rest of us waiting for? A leading story simulcast on all the networks entitled, “You Can Stop Trusting Us Now”???
All right, so this has been yet another apparent detour from the primary purpose of this article. But if we are to understand the reason why much of the world is crying over Michael Jackson, we cannot ignore the role the media has played. For we (in the main) have become fixated upon it. Jackson would not hold the meaning he does for us were it not for our present relationship with the media. And, since the media has assisted in administering our ongoing, quarter-century-plus infusion of Michael Jackson, to borrow from NBC’s Brian Williams, he is a part of our lives…because he is.
ATTENTION = ENERGY

“Energy flows where attention goes.” -James Arthur Ray, as quoted from “The Secret”

The above axiom is primary to the Law of Attraction. Whether it is war, pain, peace, love or our income potential, whatever we give our attention to receives energy and becomes stronger. And who, over the past few decades, received more attention–in more ways–worldwide than Michael Jackson?
In considering the attention he received for his abilities as a performer, I think Martin Luther King III said it best when recalling his father during the Jackson memorial service…

“Finally, Martin Luther King Jr. said that in life, if it falls ever your lot to be a street sweeper, you must sweep streets so well. In fact, you must sweep streets like Beethoven composed music. Sweep streets, he said, like Shakespeare wrote poetry. Sweep streets like Raphael painted pictures. Sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heavens and earth and would have to pause and say, here lived the great street sweeper that did his job well.
On June 25th, because he was the best, I believe heaven and earth did pause, indeed, to say of Michael Joseph Jackson, here lived a great entertainer who did his job well.”

But I’ll suggest that it wasn’t only for his accomplishments as a performer that ‘heaven and earth paused.’ Attention had been given him as a singer, dancer, songwriter, performer, oddball, abused child, accused abuser, timid boy-man, kind humanitarian, and on and on…

Michael Jackson, 1958-2009

For all of those things, with their accompanying range of emotions, there had been an unprecedented, universal focus on one person, magnified by a powerful and new sort of media. That our relationship with Michael Jackson might have been created artificially is beside the point. Energy flows where attention goes. And that accumulated universal energy is, I think, behind our tears.
That’s why we’re so affected by the death of someone we didn’t really know. That’s why nearly my entire Tuesday, July 7th, ended up being dedicated to his memory. And that’s why we’re crying.

Anita Stoudmire of Richmond, Virginia

2011-09-23T00:30:00.001-07:00

can’t believe I’m finally typing this, but here it is: We finally have video! And I’m going to start at the beginning; (seems like the only sensible place.)
I found Anita Stoudmire on my trip to Richmond, Virginia, this past April. Anita is the founder of What’s U.P.?, a company focused on personal growth and self-development. She is the creator of the “Unlock Your Unlimited Potential!” workshop series and is a Life Coach and Author. She is passionate about helping people to live their best life now and to create all that they want and desire!
Anita had a joyful, enthusiastic spirit, and as I watch her video now, I am realizing some of the things she shared three months ago–are things I’ve only come to grasp very recently. “Feel good… Do it now,” she says. I concur. Make sure you visit her website: www.YourUnlimitedPotential.net.

Feeling Good…

2011-09-23T00:29:00.002-07:00

In my travels across America, I’ve already found a good number of Law of Attraction enthusiasts who’ve had enormous head-starts on me, some of them being aware of it for more than twenty years. As they tell their stories, I always try to nail down what their process is. Meditation? Affirmations? Writing scripts?
All of those things come up from time to time, but one thing rises to the fore. No matter our intentions, we will manifest positive things in our lives if we keep on feeling positive. To the degree that we do, The Universe will bring to us more things that help us feel that way.

“The Highest Thought is always that thought which contains joy.” -Neale Donald Walsch

Think I’ll make a turkey sandwich and go for a swim!

Downstream vs. Against the Grain

2011-09-23T00:29:00.000-07:00

Abraham-Hicks recommendation to “go downstream.” This group consciousness from the non-physical dimension expressed their amusement that humans seem so intent on fighting the current of life. “Nothing you want is upstream,” they communicate.
But there’s another popular maxim that seems to contradict the downstream approach. Maybe you’re familiar with the Nickelback song, “If Today Was Your Last Day.”

Against the grain should be a way of life
What’s worth the prize is always worth the fight
Every second counts ’cause there’s no second try
So live like you’ll never live it twice
Don’t take the free ride in your own life

If you pay close attention to the other lyrics, it seems to be advising, ‘Life is too short to let your fears get the best of you. Go for it!’ And, while that certainly seems like common sense, you can’t escape the underlying message: ‘Go against the grain! Take the path less traveled! If you want life’s prize, you need to fight for it!’
Let’s put a finer point on this apparent opposition by looking at an actual situation involving two good friends of mine. One is strongly encouraging the other to overcome her fears of public speaking and begin making group presentations. She seems torn between the satisfaction that may come from rising to this challenge–and the considerable dread she feels for actually doing it.
Isn’t it true that many people have found incredible success by overcoming their fears? Isn’t it true that many are deeply grateful they were able to conquer them? Isn’t it also true that taking fears head-on is also perfectly contrary to Abraham’s advice? Isn’t it strenuously paddling upstream instead of pulling those oars in and drifting with the current?
I’d love to get your thoughts on this one. Are these two schools of thought able to coexist peacefully–or are they impossibly contradicting one another?

On My Long Departure

2011-09-23T00:28:00.000-07:00

It’s been fifteen months since my last post. I think I’m now in a position to understand why I stopped for so long.

I felt the need to challenge myself on the entire subject of the Law of Attraction. While I had no trouble accepting it myself, it now appears that I was bothered by those who argue against it, and it resulted in cognitive dissonance.

Cognitive Dissonance: Anxiety that results from simultaneously holding contradictory or otherwise incompatible attitudes or beliefs.

Those who dismiss the LOA say two things about it: (1) it hasn’t been scientifically proven, therefore (2) it should be classified along with four-leaf clovers and unicorns as superstitious mysticism.
During my time away and while exploring and reading, I noticed my attention being brought to the truth that (indeed) “some people see the glass as half-full, others as half-empty.” And I admit to being affected by those who frequently dismiss things as hokum. Their motives are often righteous, and if it weren’t for those who challenge

information we might still believe the earth is flat and supported by a gigantic turtle and elephants.
But it’s impossible to avoid that, while critical thinking has often been vindicated, it is just as often found to be short-sighted and false. In paying attention to this subject throughout my life, I’ve come to the conclusion that some people are chronic and opportunistic faultfinders. My theory is that being found a fool is their greatest fear, and in being critical of most everything they are thus playing it safe.
“New and stirring things are belittled because if they are not belittled, the humiliating question arises, “Why then are you not taking part in them?” - H.G. Wells
When investigating the LOA, there have been numerous controlled experiments that demonstrate our thoughts (in the very least) have an impact on our reality. Imagine that in forty years a properly controlled series of experiments and subsequent studies prove, to the satisfaction of critics, that the LOA is scientific fact. In the meantime how am I to lead my life? Must I really wait until all the critics reach consensus before coming to my own conclusions?
Example: I’ve never seen a ghost, and thus can’t say for sure they’re real. But I knew a family in Michigan who told me of a ghost they’d frequently see in their home. Each family member had seen it multiple times; they report it was a dwarf who would sometimes walk about and even sit down at their dining room table. While they can’t really prove to me they saw a ghost, shall they allow my lack of proof to doubt themselves? Shall they allow the fact that most scientists scoff at the existence of ghosts to dismiss their own experience?
And so this topic collides full-force with the realization I came to six years ago. The one that led me to challenge and reject my family’s religion though they shun me to this day for it. The one that led me to start this blog. As I mention on my “About” page, “people usually accept the reality placed before them by other people.” The question for me now is: If I can challenge and part ways with those who, in the name of religion, claim to represent The Truth, am I also willing to do so with those who, in the name of science, profess that if they have not proven it it isn’t true?
At age 44, I have yet to find a better worldview than the one that recognizes our thoughts modify our reality. You don’t have to believe it; neither do most scientists.

Dealing With Woo-Woo

2011-09-23T00:26:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed that Law of Attraction and Personal Development experts from time to time like to remind us that these subjects need not be considered (here comes the term) “woo-woo”?

Many aren’t comfortable with things they think are “far out,” “New Age” or “spooky,” so these experts would like to separate their work from such a stigma.
Here’s the thing: in attending several LOA and Personal Development gatherings and meeting many individuals associated with them, I’ve found that plenty of them are, well, kind of woo-woo. Of course many aren’t, but you don’t have to look far to find people in loose, flowing clothing (sometimes even tye-dyed,) wearing crystals, passing around their aura photo, talking about their Spirit Guides and latest emotionally charged psychic reading.
Don’t misunderstand: I tend to like and get along well with these folks, often finding them interesting conversationalists. Further, I went to a psychic a couple of times, don’t necessarily think things like crystals or aura photos are crazy, and I kinda like loose, flowing clothes myself. But I’m convinced that for some the LOA is simply an extension of the 60s & 70s hippie movement, and they seem shocked when many of us don’t fall in line with things they consider clearly connected.
For example, for a few months last year I met with a group that was studying Kabbalah, the discipline and school of thought that seeks to define the nature of the universe and the human being, the nature and purpose of existence, and various other questions. We were a diverse bunch, but one lady in her late forties was what I would call particularly woo-woo. She was very touchy-feely and gyrated as she spoke about mystical, groovy things. Once when someone began to question a certain personal pattern of thought, this woman raised her hand emphatically and said, “Hold it! That sounds like a lot of judgment to me.” She tilted her head to the side dramatically, whispering, “No more judgment. No more judgment.”
I’d had it up to here with this chick. Everyone else just seemed stunned by her, so I spoke

up. I explained that while I could understand that being harshly judgmental of ourselves and others might be counterproductive, that didn’t mean we couldn’t come to certain conclusions about what worked for us and what didn’t. What, after all, was the purpose of this study group if we couldn’t form judgments for ourselves about what was and was not beneficial? And might her objection not be considered “judgmental” itself?
I was listening to an Abraham-Hicks recording some months ago and heard a participant ask Abraham about how we should conduct ourselves in view of “global warming.” Her question about this subject, which tends to blame humans for the fact that the earth has in recent decades (but not the past decade) been experiencing a warming trend, seemed to suggest this perspective was universally accepted. Yes it must be a foregone conclusion that someone as wise as Abraham, a group of ancient, non-physical entities, would of course agree with this position. What was Abraham’s reply?

“For those of you worried about “global warming,” we ask, Who burned the fossil fuels that melted the Ice Age?”

I did not have video of this, but can only imagine the reaction some people had to it. Abraham expressed what I (and a growing number of others) believe: that our planet’s temperature has always been in a state of continuous change and that the statistical blip people are all worked up over barely registers on history’s scale. But this is a shocking apostasy for those who have created a religion around “climate change.”
While I don’t intend to make politics an important part of Law of Attraction Success Stories, I have wanted to make a distinction between this universal law and the politics some tend to associate with it. I have come to understand why, in “The Secret,” Joe Vitale emphasizes that everything in our life is something we ourselves have created.

“This is one of the hardest concepts to get but once accepted its life-transforming. This is part of the overall giant secret here.” -Joe Vitale

My point is that looking to ourselves–as opposed to (for instance) the government–for our well-being is one part of taking responsibility for everything that happens to us. Therefore, for me, any effort to have government assume a more important role in my life is an attempt to escape responsibility.
You and I might disagree about a few things in this regard, and I’m well aware that there are lots of “responsible” people found throughout the political spectrum. But while “woo woo” is usually pretty harmless, I can’t help but notice some of the political positions taken by many who lean in that direction. Positions that in the name of “peace, love & kindness” seek to transfer responsibility for one’s well-being from the self to the government.
But if like me you are a believer in the Law of Attraction–and want to improve your life through a better understanding of it–I encourage you to avoid supporting any effort that involves your reliance on government or anything other than yourself.

Holosync: Effortless Meditation

2011-09-23T00:24:00.000-07:00

One of the things I’ve tried to do for the past few years is find myself in a nice, consistent

groove of spending time with my intentions. My wife, Rachel, and I have experimented with a number of different meditations, guided meditations, etc., but we didn’t end up sticking with any of them for too long. In Rachel’s case, she was always frustrated with meditation. She just didn’t feel like she was doing it right.
I can relate. You’re relaxed, listening to the music or waves or whatever, focusing on your breathing…but your mind keeps darting around. At some point I decided this was okay. I wouldn’t stress it. But it really bugged Rachel. She felt that, because of her sometimes distracted mind, her meditations weren’t very effective.
Enter Holosync. Now I’d heard about this company over three years ago and had read a bit about it. I’m going to keep it as simple as possible. Holosync is a program that involves listening to audio tracks through stereo headphones. What you consciously hear is waves and pleasant chimes, but in the background have been placed tones. The frequency of the tone being played in your left ear is different than the one in your right ear by a measure of ten cycles per second. When your brain attempts to process these two tones, something very cool happens. Your brain waves will begin to resonate to the difference between those two tones.
Holosync audio tracks will take your brain waves from the ordinary waking pattern of Beta, then to Alpha, Theta and Delta. As this happens the fluctuations in your brain are

continuously increasing. These fluctuations give your nervous system input, but it’s at a level your brain is not used to handling the way it is currently structured. So your brain, being amazingly adaptive, is forced to reorganize itself at higher, more complex levels of functioning so that it can handle what it couldn’t before.
There are different levels to Holosync, and Rachel and I are still on the initial “Awakening Prologue.” For the first two weeks you listen exclusively to the 30 minute track called “The Dive.” Starting on week 3, you listen to “The Dive,” followed by another 30 minute track called “Immersion.” That’s pretty much it. There are other tracks you can purchase that include subaudible affirmations in a variety of areas–and soon Rachel and I will be able to record our own affirmations that the Holosync people will place behind their tracks.
After four months of The Dive and Immersion, we’ll then move onto other levels, which use the same technology, but which begin moving to deeper and deeper frequencies that will continue to keep our brains evolving. But what’s the effect of Holosync?
This is something I deal with a lot. Many programs or neurotechnologies seem to place an emphasis on overcoming emotional dysfunction or learning how to be a happier person. These are not things I struggle with. The good news is that you don’t have to be a basket case to benefit deeply from it. Over time new neural pathways are being created between both hemispheres of your brain, which is purported to lead to what scientists call “whole brain functioning.”
I can testify that, over the past two months of using Holosync consistently, my ability to focus, concentrate and think more clearly has improved. I notice it when reading or in conversations. Also, while I used to stress when writing, now my ability to kick out a blog post seems much easier. But the thing that keeps me coming back to it is this: I enjoy doing it every single day.

The real beauty of it is that you don’t have to worry if you’re doing it right. Your brain could be thinking about a thousand different things totally unrelated to your personal growth; it’s still working! Bill Harris, the founder of Centerpointe Research Institute and Holosync, tells the story of a certain experiment in which several people were having their brain waves measured while using the program. Afterward one woman told the researchers they may as well throw out her data because she just hadn’t been able to concentrate. But they were able to show her that, despite what she thought, her brain waves had dipped deeper than anyone else in the experiment.
Now while you don’t have to reach deep levels of concentration while doing Holosync, you certainly can if you want to. And I have been using these unbelievably relaxing periods of time to focus on my intentions, to see my life the way it will be and have deeply enjoyed the experience of doing so.
The upshot: Holosync is pleasurable experience that helps create a positive routine for me. It’s good knowing that my brain’s capacity is being improved, but it also gives me that opportunity to focus on my intentions every single day. Thumbs up!

“The Science Behind the Secret” Review

2011-09-23T00:22:00.000-07:00

’ll start with some extractions from the back of the book:
“For over forty years writers have described and pondered the aspects of The Law of Attraction in works such as The Power of Positive Thinking, Creative Visualization and the

phenomenal best seller The Secret… Now, Dr. Travis Taylor–scientist, engineer and science fiction writer who has studied the esoteric nature of quantum physics and the universe–takes the reader on an eye-opening journey of understanding this theory.
Through modern quantum physics Dr. Taylor shows that The Secret is actually a restatement of the accepted physical models of quantum coherence and entanglement… The Science Behind the Secret–Decoding the Law of Attraction shows us that with every thought we have we are creating our own reality and that we can control our own realities if we learn how…”
Recently I blogged about the cognitive dissonance with the LoA that I experienced during my fifteen month departure. I read so many books, but it was after this one that I returned to blogging. It’s not that this book had a transformative effect on me, but it was nice icing on the cake.
Let’s get clear on Travis Taylor’s credentials. He holds a doctorate in optical science and engineering, three masters degrees–in physics, aerospace engineering and astronomy–and a bachelors degree in electrical engineering. He’s worked on various programs for the Department of Defense and NASA for the past sixteen years. His current work involves advanced propulsion concepts, substantial space telescopes, space-based beamed energy systems, and next generation space launch concepts. Now to the review.
Taylor uses a very southern-U.S.-folksy tone. I’ll admit that it seems like he reaches just a bit too far with this tone, and at time it feels goofily contrived, but it didn’t keep me from reading with interest and ultimately appreciating the book.
Taylor starts with his incidental viewing of the Oprah program, which his wife likes to watch. One episode featured those who had appeared on and contributed to The Secret. The other featured an interview with author Louise Hay. While a number of comments made him flinch, watching these programs brought him back to themes he’d become aware of in his study of quantum physics and human consciousness.
To start off with, Taylor makes clear that technically a “law” is something that people have hypothesized, theorized, experimented with and tested diligently, and then argued and debated through peer review, often over generations, until the scientific community finally verifies it as a “law.” So we should be clear that, from a scientific viewpoint, the Law of Attraction is not really a law, but more a “maxim.” A maxim is something considered a general truth or principle, which has not been subjected to the above scientific rigor. (I think most people believe deeply in plenty of things that, for one reason or another, the multi-generational scientific community has not “proven” with such rigor.)

One thing I like is how he makes a distinction between two principles: the one you hear all the time and the one that more specifically addresses what the LoA community embraces. We always hear that the basis of the Law of Attraction is that like attracts like. But, as Taylor points out, often this isn’t true at all since science has often shown that opposites attract. Yes, there are a lot of other situations in modern physics in which like does attract like, but the more specifically interesting point is that (to borrow from my About page) our thoughts modify our reality.

“The idea behind it is deeper than just “birds of a feather” or “like attracts like.” The idea is that you create your own reality. You create your universe around you by how you perceive it, interpret it and feel it. And if you don’t believe me…just wait until we get to the science.”

Taylor proceeds with a bit of a history lesson on the LoA, followed by the quantum physics of how it might work. He does his best to describe quantum theory, waves and particles to us in laymen terms. Not easy. Then we get into the real substance of this book as he discusses “qwiff’s” (or quantum wave functions,) what they are and how they move and interact with each other, coming together to manifest an intention equal to or better than what we asked for.
For some, delving deeply into the (usually) very complex things associated with the LoA seems confusing and unnecessary. And if you don’t have the interest in so delving, fine. But still others think that the nature of the LoA is so unusual, so seemingly woo-woo, that it’s ridiculous or even embarrassing to admit an interest in it. For them, I recommend this book.
In case you think the world and your relationship to it is basically defined, documented and understood, you’ll find that scientists have been making many bizarre discoveries for decades. Consider the fact that a single particle can exist in two distant places at the same time. Consider “quantum entanglement,” which shows that two different particles that were once “entangled” will remain such, and when action is performed on one it affects the other despite their distance. Even Einstein called it, “spooky action at a distance.”
And, speaking of Einstein, he also recognized the nature of human consciousness when he said, “Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one.”
I found the book thought-provoking and stimulating. I bought it for around $15 in an airport bookshop. Since airports also charge three bucks for a bottle of water, I imagine you can find it for less elsewhere.

Michael Jackson Life Story

2011-09-22T13:24:00.000-07:00

Michael Jackson Life Story

The Latest on MJ Death Investigation

What is Michael Jackson Life Story? Since the King of Pop's death in 2009 the interest in his life, children, career and the many controversies that surrounded him in life is at all time high.

No one's life - the life of Michael Jackson included - can be told in detail within a brief essay that's why - by necessity - this is but a sketch of a life lived big and cut short.

So, here is Michael Jackson life story: Michael was born on August 29th 1958, in Gary Indiana. (He’s had eight siblings: Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, Rebbie, La Toya, Randy, and Janet.)
Michael started his career at the age of 7 as the lead singer of the Jackson 5; the group consisted of Michael Jackson and his older brothers and was managed by his domineering father, Joseph. Eventually the band became a success and Michael Jackson achieved stardom at the age of eleven.

Few years later Michael embarked on a solo career and introduced African American influence into the world of pop music. He achieved major success as a solo artist, attracting millions of devoted fans. A whole generation of fans followed his every move and supported his success. Millions believed in his talent and Michael didn't let his fans down. He delivered by creating unique and original work: unforgettable live performances, albums and videos, AND by breaking many records. Michael Jackson's top hits speak for themselves.
Three of his albums: "Bad", "Thriller" and "Off the Wall" have broken all existing popularity and sales records. He was listed as the most successful entertainer in the world by Guinness World of Records. Michael has also earned 13 Grammys………

Among Michael Jackson’s most successful works are "For you and for Me", "There Are People Dying", "Make It A Better Place", "If You Care Enough", "For The Living", "Heal the World", "And The Entire Human Race" and "Make A Better Place”.
Michael Jackson’s unique dancing skills and singing talent have set a new standard. Many have learned from and many aspire to achieve his mastery. His videos inspired a new genre………

Michael Jackson's career span nearly 40 years and on a professional level he not only succeeded but exceeded all expectations and seduced the world with his talent. Michael Jackson's career speaks for itself. But all the work, self-sacrifice, fame and success came with a price that he's had to pay as a person and here the real Michael Jackson life story gets complicated.....

After all, Michael Jackson was not only an artists but a human being who unlike the larger than life artist had his struggles. One of them was the insecurity about his appearance which he had tried to correct and then perfect for most of his life. Another was his insistence at preserving his childhood dreams which resulted in the creation of the Neverland Ranch complete with an amusement park and a zoo. Michael was also known for understanding and loving children and on several occasions was accused of child molestation. The shadow of these accusations did irreparable damage to his reputation, career and income.

Michael Jackson's been both: a legend and a mystery. Even though he's had many siblings and parents, he's chosen to live in isolation. The only people who knew the real, grown up, private Michael Jackson the way he really was 24 hours a day and off-camera are his kids.

Gossip about an alleged fourth child aside, Michael Jackson left behind three children. Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. (better known as Prince) was born on February 13, 1997; his sister Paris-Michael Katherine Jackson is one year younger and was born on April 3, 1998. Both Michael Jr. and Paris were born during Michael Jackson's marriage to Deborah Jeanne Rowe, a dermatology nurse and his long-time friend. The couple divorced in 1999 on good terms. Michael Jackson got full custody of the children, the legal wrangling over the terms of the custody however were not resolved until 2006.

Michael's second marriage to Lisa Marie Presley was childless. Michael Jackson's third child, Prince Michael Jackson II (affectionately called "Blanket") was born in 2002. According to various sources, "Blanket" is the product of artificial insemination. His mother remains unknown; it is said that MJ is the biological father.

Two of Michael Jackson's children have caught public attention. MJ's daughter Paris who spoke so movingly of her father after his passing. "Blanket" became a worldwide sensation on the balcony of Hotel Adlon in Berlin when his father showed him to the world in a manner some thought was less than responsible.

Everybody wants to know more about MJ Kids; we'll be watching Michael Jackson's children grow up and hope they'll share some of their memories of their famous father.

Michael Jackson was a unique and prolific artist, as a person an original, and as a human being a notable philanthropist who's helped millions of people worldwide through his charities.

without posing this question: was Michael Vindicated?

Michael Jackson had a very rich life. (Rich, not necessarily a happy one.) He's experienced unparalleled success; has been adored by millions of fans; mingled with the rich and famous of the world. He lived like a king (in keeping with his moniker "King of Pop"); created his very own kingdom which he named Neverland after the world described in his favorite book "Peter Pan". MJ filled his make-believe-kingdom with everything a kid's heart may desire, quite likely to compensate for the childhood he himself never had.

He lived his dreams.

Unfortunately, Michael Jackson experienced also a fall from grace. He's had to face tough accusations, ostracism, financial troubles, loneliness, and a fair share of controversy as well as scrutiny.

MJ has been working on his comeback in the months leading to his untimely death but died just short of actually making it.

But what happened upon his passing? Enormous, spontaneous outburst of love. A revival of interest in his work. How to understand this phenomenon? There was a time when Michael Jackson was convicted in the court of public opinion. When most tabloids made money by besmearing him...

His death seems to have turned the tide in Michael Jackson's favor once again.

The outburst of love, support, and recognition that followed his death left us with the image of Michael Jackson Vindicated. Sad, isn't it? In the last years of his life, the world seemed to be against him. His finances were in a disarray..... Was Michael Jackson too fragile or was the world unfair?

What is Michael Jackson life story? A story of extra-ordinary talent, one-of-a-kind success, major highs and tragic lows. A life befitting of a King, or in this case: the King of Pop.

Photos: Both images are in the public domain.

The Latest on MJ Death Investigation

Michael Jackson’s doctor (Conrad Murray) who was charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of Michael Jackson was ordered to stand trial after a six day preliminary hearing. While announcing his decision, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor ordered also that Dr. Murray be stripped of his medical license. (For now he no longer has the right to practice medicine in California.) Both of the rulings suggest that there is sufficient evidence to convict Dr. Murray of the charge levied against him. If convicted, Dr. Murray could spend up to four years in prison.

According to reports, Dr. Murray used Propofol as a sleeping aid; failed to provide proper care to a patient in distress; and finally, delayed calling 911 by 20 minutes, a time he used to hide evidence which would expose his improper usage of Propofol. As expected in a high profile case, rumors are swirling, with Dr. Murray’s lawyers accusing Michael Jackson of administering the fatal dose of the drug himself….. Stay tuned.

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Colonel Sanders

Death and legacy

Death and legacy

Bill Gates

Contents

Early life

Microsoft

BASIC

IBM partnership

Windows

Management style

Antitrust litigation

Appearance in ads

Post-Microsoft

Personal life

Philanthropy

Recognition

Investments

Soichiro Honda Biography God OF Business

Early life

Building an empire

Automobiles

Transforming Honda

For More Information

Master Of Business F. W. Woolworth

Master of Business Rowland Hussey Macy

Rowland Hussey Macy

[edit] Life and career

[edit] In popular culture

[edit] See also

[edit] References

This Weekend’s LoA Success Story!

This Weekend’s LoA Success Story!

Podcast #3: Sonia M. Miller

Michael Jackson: Why Are We Crying?

Anita Stoudmire of Richmond, Virginia

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Downstream vs. Against the Grain

On My Long Departure

Dealing With Woo-Woo

Holosync: Effortless Meditation

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