Simplifying Your World at Pentad.

Corporate Tax Crackdown. Obama hits tax havens.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Mon, 04 May 2009 18:58:00 +0000

President Obama has initiated a tug-of-war by proposing to reform International tax codes. Tightening loopholes, and addressing the issue of tax havens abroad is the hot topic of the week, and Corporate America is fighting back.

Obama wishes to simplify tax codes, and the plan seems to have a two-fold underlying purpose. Firstly, it would seem that he wishes to stimulate job creation at home, and secondly to finance proposed programs through tax revenue. Closing questionable loopholes means that some of the current outsourcing will be less lucrative.

Corporate America is not taking this sitting down. Early out was the rebuttal and accusation that Obama's plan would cause corporations to lose a global competitive edge, and that countless jobs will be lost.

This may turn into a battle of wills, and it may get a little messy. And yet, the subject interests me for another reason. It will be fascinating to see how the Administration handles the corporate world in a conflict of interest such as this. Why? Because, there are lobbying powerhouses to be dealt with in the future, and many of them have their long arms woven through our national health industry.

Are corporations crying wolf? If jobs head back home, will they be able to compete with the low wages and costs of other countries? Will they lose the competitive edge? Give this short post consideration in your personal opinion.

Will Obama succeed in his tax reform proposal? Can it, and/or should it happen?

Tamera Daun©

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Swine Flu. Follow and track outbreak incidence on this interactive world map.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 02:14:00 +0000

Woe is the Swine Flu, however not many complaints can be aimed at the sources of information keeping us updated. In cooperation with health officials, the mainstream media has, thus far, adequately informed us of necessary precautionary measures as the Swine Flu spreads. The President and his staff maintain calm composure.

In these types of situations I consider it vital that we allow the proper authorities to lead the way. In other words, the rest of the public should avoid adding to any potential cauldron of confusion, sometimes caused by "too much" contradictory information floating around out there. We need to stay out of the way and let the authorities do their jobs, and especially in these initial phases. I know. It's the Nurse in me talking here, but it is more important than people sometimes realize.

The purpose of this post is to encourage everyone to follow public announcements and instructions. I also wanted to share an interactive map I found that shows the city and country breakdown of disease incidence as it spreads. The map is continuously updated.

Be well, and stay safe.

Here's the link:

Swine Flu Map

Tamera Daun©

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Obama and Health. Objectives for the Nation.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 23:33:00 +0000

We all realize that the Obama Administration has inherited a whole host of issues to resolve. There is a wave of uproar sweeping from coast to coast regarding the amount of funds proposed to cover President Obama's plans and initiatives, and his health reform is one of those areas that concerns citizens. This is a legitimate complaint and concern, and it is understandable when people fear that a deficit hole will be deeper than we can manage.

Yet, while we see dollars being spent, there may be additional knowledge of which we are not aware. That knowledge may help us to better understand the health issue currently on the table, and this issue is dynamic and ever-changing.

On the one hand, we witness soaring health-care costs resulting from individual responsibility at suboptimal levels for too many. How do we know this? Well, one manifested consequence of people not taking care of their health is the extreme prevalence of obesity in this country. And, this should also be of interest to citizens in other Western countries as the numbers are increasing there as well. The World Health Organization describes obesity as "an escalating epidemic", and "four of the leading causes of death in the United States are related to dietary imbalance and excess" (Boyle & Holben, 2006, p.12).

So, many of our health-care problems leading to over the top costs are self-created problems. And, this is just one example. However, it does not help using time to lay blame, because that will not aid in getting back on track. We have to dig in and help ourselves, and each other. I bring this point to the table only as a reminder to us all that the heavy load on health-care providers is somewhat preventable.

On the other hand, our government has a responsibility and policy role to play in dealing with the health care issues of citizens. It is not a responsibility that President Obama conjured up, because he felt like spending money. Increasing the number of health-insured people, which provides access to health care, was an objective issued in the year 2000 in order to reach 2 major goals of better health and quality of life for the nation's people by 2010. We have enormous challenges to meet. An estimated "40 percent of our population- some 120 million people- will have a chronic disease or condition by the year 2010" (Boyle & Holben, 2006, p.25).

Getting our collective state of health in shape, demands an immense effort and collaboration across the board between public and private entities. Each of these entities has specific objectives to achieve, and the work is in-progress.

Firstly. Repairing the damage of existing problems and burdens needs immediate action. It is here that difficult decisions must be made, and we have the choice of actually fixing "we, the people" and our system, or leaning on timeless arguments of who gets to foot the bill. As long as insurance companies operate profit-based, the exploitation of people will resume, and countless others are shut out from coverage, and access to quality health-care.

If this is what we want, then I must question if people understand the premises of what the "highest good of this nation" are based upon.

This issue is too important to be viewed from a partisan political perspective. Why? The lives of people are at stake.

"The goals of sustainable development cannot be achieved when there is a high prevalence of debilitating illness and poverty, and the health of a population cannot be maintained without a responsive health system and a healthy environment" (2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development).

Health is recognized as a resource for, and an outcome of, sustainable development. Healthy people means productive people, and it is an important resource factor in our economy.

Secondly. The current Administration is committed to ongoing health education to fulfill disease prevention objectives, in addition to "emergency repair". Again, these working areas are specified in the most recent health initiative, issued in the year 2000.

The health initiative is entitled, Health People 2010: Understanding and Improving Health. It presents a national health agenda for the first decade of the twenty-first century. The Healthy People documents, "represent a national health agenda developed by a consortium of national health organizations, state health departments, the Institute of Medicine, and the U.S. Public Health Service" (Boyle & Holben, 2006, p. 11).

Arguments that satisfy the fear of people regarding a "socialist movement", is only fear. The issue at hand is basic in nature. It is about pursuing the opportunity of fundamental health and well-being for all human beings. Our system currently operates not much better than countries hosting dictatorship regimes, which sabotage the opportunities of its citizens to thrive and be productive.

Healthy People 2010 is the U.S. commitment to work towards that which was outlined by the nations of the world in a 1978 conference on primary health care, and convened by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children's Fund. The goal of the world community is, "to protect and promote the health of all people in the world".

Boyle & Holben (2006). Community nutrition in action. Ca: Thomson.

Tamera Daun©

Relaying an alert to bloggers regarding the site Backtype

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 20:27:00 +0000

I was in such a good mood today that it is almost a pity to interrupt it with a rant. But, here we go. I found something this afternoon that I didn't like. My stats alerted me to numerous searches on variations of my ID. They were coming from the same location, so I clicked on one of those Google search links.

Right at the top of the first search page was an URL to an independent site, www.backtype.com

This is a site that compiles all of our comments from the web, gives them a profile page with our names/handles, and makes them a follow option for people. Others can follow and receive alerts whenever you comment on a site. Everyone should also be warned that this site publishes your Twitters to everyone on the Internet, and even though you haven't given your permission via Twitter. As we all know, we choose to allow certain followers on Twitter.

We also know that Google archives many of our comments, but they are kind of spread all over as individual links, and it really is not interesting to find and read everyone's comments through Google searching all day long. At least if we have a life. It makes it a bit more comfortable to actually comment openly on blogs. We are aware of the fact that Google archives our 'stuff' before we create a site, and they use those back-links to help configure our page-rank. There is an element of mutual consent underlying this agreement.

Okay, so what problem do I have with the site? There is no mutual consent. Their homepage states that people can submit their personal information. If you don't have a website URL to submit when signing up, you can borrow one of theirs! Wow.....This is fine enough for those that wish to do so. If they want others to follow their commenting in the blogosphere as it happens, then that's their business to allow it.

It is NOT okay in my book when my ID and name are included and used without my permission! When I search my name on their site, I get up page upon page of women with the same name, and incredibly enough the site has linked to everyone's blogger profile. Yet, it doesn't seem as though people are aware of this, as I didn't see any added avatars or website URL's, or any other sign that they are willingly participating. Most of my comments being tracked are from Wordpress blogs.

We bloggers choose to join social sites and blog communities, because we wish to be registered there. We knowingly use Twitter to send messages to followers, but it is our choice.

I read some great blogs, and I'd like to feel somewhat comfortable commenting openly without knowing that someone has an alert on what I comment. It is stated by someone on their site that people can track discussions "in case they are important discussions that need participation". But, is it necessary to track individual users and give us a profile page if we do not want it, and did not submit our information personally? I made a log-in profile after I found out about it, so that I could try to find some kind of delete option, and to send them an e-mail.

I've noted which sites my comments have been tracked, and most of them are sites in which I discuss honestly and openly about personal subjects. If any of you receive the comment "nice blog post" in the future you will at least know that I dropped by.

I've written to them and asked that my personal information be excluded, but haven't received a response. Trying to find the option to delete my name is impossible. I've also reported it to Google and explained my 'unknowing' participation submitted by someone, and against my will.

If anyone out there wishes to check out their status on that site, do a Google search on several variations of your blogger ID, and look for, www.backtype.com. You will then see if you have been added and which name they have used. You see, they used a different variation of my name.

That's it for today!

Tamera Daun©

Precious Sleep. A natural viewpoint, and tidbits about sleep.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 22:08:00 +0000

A good yawn that gently coaxes the body into relaxation feels great, doesn't it? And, crawling between the sheets anticipating a good night's rest is equally wonderful. Our biological clock welcomes the experience each evening, and the majority of complaints exclaim too little of this precious thing called sleep. We humans not only need sleep to survive, we love it! We also notice the effects when we lack adequate rest.

Ironically, my attention became fixed on a science program yesterday evening as I was thinking it was time to hit the hay. The Department of Neuroscience at the University of Oxford is turning out some pretty fascinating research about our biological clocks. The exciting part is that natural solutions for those with sleeping difficulties are also becoming increasingly clear as the mystery of the sleeping mechanism unfolds. It was the aspect of natural solutions and readjusting our internal clock if so needed that really caught my attention and interest. I thought to myself, 'finally! Now, we're headed somewhere'.

Aside from the fact that we all operate differently as a result of our biochemical individuality, there is one aspect that we have in common, which not only connects us humans to each other, but also with nature. This aspect is of course, light. Universally, our inner clock that regulates our sleep patterns is a biological response to sunrise, and sunset. It's pretty self-explanatory.

We'd like to think that our physiology is super-modern and capable of any adaptation, but the truth is that our bodies are still quite ancient and paleolithic. Yet, isn't it a beautiful thought? Simplicity is a beautiful thing.

We tend to forget this. Instead of helping ourselves, we fight our nature. It's like walking uphill against gusts of wind.

As I listened intently to the program and the tidbits of information and facts, I became increasingly bothered. My nagging feeling did not come from what I was hearing and seeing, but rather something else. We have a major problem in our modern societies. I know, I know. So, what's new, right?

The problem is that our living and working environments do not support our biological nature.

Let me give you an example. Individuals may feel that they are at their most creative at different times during the day. Some get their creative kick in the morning, and some in the late evening. However, studies show that productivity and clear thinking in the workplace are at their measured highest between 10am and noon. Yet, people race to work early in the morning, and push themselves to stay until evening. And, even though the heart is most vulnerable to stress and heart attacks in the early morning hours. So, it may not be the best thing for people to be stressing down the freeway, worried that they are running behind schedule?

Here's another tidbit. You know that time around noon when we can feel a little drowsy, and we think it's because we've just eaten lunch? Our conclusion is not entirely true. Research shows that our bodies go into modes called micro-sleep dips several times a day, and they are really not food related in their essence. Twenty-five percent of all accidents occur as a result of micro-sleeps, and these accidents are at their peak around 2 pm, each day. It was also stated that all that is needed when these dips happen is a quick 10-15 minutes of rest.

I don't know about you, but my mind began to reel with all sorts of solutions.

There are those that have flexible working hours, but they are far from the majority. Wouldn't it be neat if more people were allowed to work from home in the morning, making their way into the office sometime between 9-10 am? Mornings could begin with a healthy breakfast, and include scheduled work meetings via the Internet, or other small details. In addition, this time and work might be less disturbed and interrupted. Once at work, a micro-rest could be implemented after lunch for all, increasing productivity throughout the afternoon hours.

I'm certain that there are many ways in which workplaces and employers could accommodate our biology, and increase productivity through natural ways without creating stress. Sleep, rest, and less stress are so crucial to our long term health. Working more hours each day does not necessarily mean that we accomplish more. I'm sure that we've all felt that at some point in time.

I won't keep you all much longer, but I just wanted to mention a couple more odd facts. The researchers at Oxford also stated that the use of sunglasses during certain times of the day can help readjust the internal sleeping clock for those that feel it is out of whack. There are certain hours beneficial for those who feel the need to sleep late in the morning and wish to awaken earlier, and certain hours for those people that wake up too early and need an extra hour or two. The whole idea is to manipulate the amount of light entering the eye and brain at certain times, which again influences our long-term sleep patterns.

I have no doubt that simple methods like this take some time to work, but such are the natural ways of healing the body. It takes patience and consistent practice, yet the long term 'fix' outweighs the effects and consequences of medication.

The last tidbit I'll mention is about growing older, however, they didn't provide specific ages. We've all heard and know that we sleep less as we grow older. Even though we have the same number of brain cells that regulate sleep patterns, they become less active with age. In addition, the eyes also begin to fail for many, and glasses are needed. It seems as though the thickness of one's glass lenses play an important role combined with decreased activity in the brain. The thicker the lenses, the less light that reaches the brain. It all kind of works together in a negative circle of events, and many elderly people begin to experience sleeping difficulties. But, for all I know, this may start to affect us in our forties and fifties.

All of this kind of got me thinking about my personal schedule, and my individual dips (micro-sleep modes) and creativity/productivity heights during the day.

So, I was wondering if anyone else out there sees any areas in which they can better accommodate themselves? Are you in sync with your body's natural biorhythms?

What is your best personal tip for a good night's sleep?

One more question. Do any of you think that it is possible for society to do a functional turn-around, and operate in a different way? Or, are we too far gone?

What say you?

I think I'm ready for a nap!

Tamera Daun©

Michelle Obama is Jackie Kennedy? Or, Michelle?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:20:00 +0000

Is anyone else watching the news, and following Obama's visit to Europe? I catch coverage clips now and then, and there is something that has me a little irritated. I'm sure reporters mean well, but I'm growing a little tired of them comparing Michelle Obama to Jackie Kennedy. Constantly.

Jackie was a beautiful First Lady, and she certainly brought style and charm to The White House. In other words, I understand that it is meant to be a positive comparison as people grow increasingly fond of Michelle Obama, but I'll be honest about my thought on that. I told my husband the other evening that Michelle is probably about ready to "puke" from hearing about it all of the time. Every little detail is compared. The way she dresses, what she does, the way she acts, the way she delivers her words and greetings. Everything.

Can Michelle Obama please be allowed to be "just" Michelle Obama? Michelle is a highly intelligent, well-educated, strong-willed and independent woman that knows what she stands for. She has clear values and preferences. She is who she is, and she likes the fashion style that she likes.

Basta.

Related posts:
Michelle Obama's Makeover. What a crock!

Pentad. Simplifying Your World.
Tamera Daun©

Confusing Needs

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 18:52:00 +0000

This is a post that I've been meaning to write since ringing in 2009. It must be a symptom of wise old age, because just as soon as I remember to write it, I forget again. The book that motivated the initial thought has now been in plain sight on the coffee table for several days, so before I forget...

I thought the subject would serve the purpose of a friendly reminder to us all in meeting the new year. I'm sure it will spark various thoughts in each person reading, because we're all in different places at any given time, and rarely on the same page in our everyday lives. I thought the information was fun to look at, and quite interesting.

How many times do we think we know people so well that we assume to know what they like and prefer? How many times do we guess, instead of just asking? Not only that, but is it not naturally human to think about our own responses and conclusions while another person is speaking, instead of really listening? I think it's pretty normal, but I also think that we can help create more win-win situations if we put our egos aside, and really try to understand other people from their shoes. There are so many situations that end in win-lose and resentment, and lose-lose. In other words, nothing progresses.

Eegads, there are so many arenas in which we operate as mere mortal human-beings. We have relations that are more emotional and personal, and some that are less private. They all demand different approaches, so I guess the following information is just a point of awareness that may be helpful to remember.

This example is purely work-related. In other words, it is information based on what managers feel motivates their employees, and what employees say motivates them. The answers are kind of a wake-up call. Yet, there may be something important to remember here, no matter which arena we are in at any given point during a day.

The information is provided by Kurt W. Mortensen, and presented in simple point format (2008, p. 191). Keep in mind that working in different environments/political systems, and other circumstances such as economic crises, may change the order of these rankings.

The MAIN point is the obvious mismatch.

So, let's have a look!

What Motivates Employees as Ranked by Managers:

1. Compensation
2. Job Security
3. Growth and promotional opportunities
4. Good working conditions
5. Interesting work
6. Personal loyalty to employees
7. Tactful discipline
8. Appreciation of work done
9. Help with personal problems
10. Being well informed

What Motivates Employees as Ranked by Employees:

1. Interesting work
2. Appreciation of work done
3. Being well informed
4. Job Security
5. Compensation
6. Growth and promotion opportunities
7. Good working conditions
8. Personal loyalty to employees
9. Tactful discipline
10. Help with personal problems

Given the many variables that may influence rankings at any given time, is it not interesting that we may not know what we think we know about other people? I think it is.

Mortensen responds, "How much more effective could these managers be in motivating their team if they were really in touch with their employees? What we think others want and what they really want are usually two different things. Studies show that only one in ten people are recognized/motivated in ways that are meaningful to them" (2008, p.191).

Any thoughts about this, or experiences of feeling that your needs are/were misunderstood at work? What is/was it that you needed to feel more satisfied and really wish to give that little extra for a manager/employer?

Resource: Mortensen, K. (2008), Persuasion IQ. New York. AMACOM.

Tamera Daun©
Pentad. Simplifying Your World.

Top 'O the Mornin'!

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:57:00 +0000

We tip our hats to the Irish today. To the descendants of those that took the perilous journey Westward long ago and contributed to our melting pot through hard labor, we join ye all in celebration. The "strife and struggle" is not forgotten.

May the luck of the Irish be with you today, and what is this day without a beautiful rendition of 'Danny Boy'? Enjoy!

Dedicated to: fond memories and grateful thanks to the O'Brien Family.

Dreaming of China

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 05:45:00 +0000

See the lady in the picture? That is fellow Tai Chi student, Christine. This was taken while she tied a newly earned belt on her son. Oh, I hope she doesn't 'throw me' in class for borrowing her picture, because I didn't ask her permission. She has no idea that I am writing this post about her.

So, 'what's up?', you may ask. Well, we have a China Dream. A dream and goal to head to China this summer to compete in Tai Chi. Now, our school is not one of those sponsored professional athletic gigs. Nike and Coke haven't yet called, so a few travel costs need to be covered, however it is not impossible. Nothing is impossible.

I believe that we Moms should pursue a dream or two, and I think it's good for our kids to see us, 'go for it'!

Christine is a positive bundle of energy, and it is most difficult to convince her to sit down and relax! She gives her all, no matter what she decides to do, and this includes Tai Chi. She helps people out, and can make anyone smile within seconds. Christine is a single Mom, working outside of the home in addition to her own business. She makes natural products, and she knows her stuff!

Yeah, I know these 'economic times'. I also know that people still pick up a little 'gift' something for people they love. For Easter, Mother's Day, birthdays, and other important dates.

I am going to copy in a little text I found written by Christine about her products. She states it best, herself:

Indulge in delights from around the globe with a clean, green conscience. Sourcing Sustainable, Fair Trade, Naturally Grown, Wildcrafted and Organic raw materials is something A Little Ol’Factory works hard at doing so you don’t have to.

Our Focus: specialty natural materials and accessories for aromatherapy, making toiletries and general wellness (http://www.alittleolfactory.com/).

I make luxury natural soap, creams, incense, perfumes and other wonderful smelling things for a living. I use as many organic, wild grown, naturally grown, ethically harvested and fair trade produced raw materials as possible. In many cases I source them directly from the distillers, farmers and producers. I have customers in over 51 countries plus the United States, mostly acquired through a great reputation spread via word of mouth.

I’ve long been a supporter of corporate social responsibility, promoting a business culture driven by values and producing products governed by ethics.

My business A Little Ol'Factory (est. 1999), was one of the first women-owned, green, essential oils and body care businesses on the net. This entrepreneurial desire blossomed after working many years in the herbal and natural products industry. I decided to provide "a little olfactory" (I always like a good pun and good humor) bliss to folks interested in pure essential oils, and combine that with my love of making luxury natural toiletries and soap (Christine's profile).

So, if you are in need of a neat gift or would enjoy a little something for yourself, you can support a 'green entrepreneur', AND help Christine realize a dream, by visiting her site: A Little Ol'Factory. Natural Aromatics. Remember to mention it to friends and family that love natural products such as these. C'mon everyone. Give that little link a click, and at least take a look. You may want to remember it for future use.

P.S. To Christine: Nike is so going to regret they didn't call.

Pentad. Simplifying Your World.

Mental Decline and Long Working Hours

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 19:27:00 +0000

This is hot off the press from Natural Standard magazine, so I am passing on the information. It is a tidbit about one more study completed on the cognitive effect of working long hours. This happens to be a topic of discussion in a few companies, and even among national administrations, although primarily socialistic admins.

Studies such as these are important, because findings may dispel inaccurate thinking regarding work and employee efficiency. This of course, has economic consequences for companies. In other words, is there a better and more optimal use of human resources? Findings lead us to ask the critical questions, "What do we mean by efficiency? How do we define it? Is working longer hours included in that definition, and what are the consequences/human costs? What are the truths, and how can they be applied to business policy"?

Each study brings us a little closer to a few truths, and further research is needed. Yet, while the search is on, we can at least try to take care of our well-being, cut down on working too much in our free time, and get quality sleep at night. Every little bit helps.

We need to do it for our highest best. First and foremost, for ourselves.

Take a look here;

In a recent study, working long hours was associated with decreased cognitive function in middle-aged adults.

The study examined 2,214 middle-aged British civil servants who were working full-time. The researchers performed various tests to measure the participants' cognitive function at the time of study enrollment (1997-1999) and again at follow up (2002-2004).

According to the authors, working more than 55 hours a week was linked with poorer mental skills, including impaired short-term memory and recall, compared to those who worked a standard 40 hours. Individuals who worked the most hours experienced the greatest decline in cognitive function.

These results were similar after adjusting for potential confounding factors, including age, gender, marital status, education, occupation, income, physical diseases, psychosocial factors, sleep disturbances and health-risk behaviors.

In addition, participants who worked overtime slept fewer hours, reported more symptoms of depression and drank more alcohol than those who worked just 40 hours.

The potential mechanism for these negative effects remains unknown. It is also unclear if the effects may be long-term. Additional research is warranted in this area.

Resources:

Natural Standard

Virtanen M, Singh-Manoux A, Ferrie JE, et al. Long working hours and cognitive function: the Whitehall II Study. Am J Epidemiol. 2009 Mar 1;169(5):596-605. Epub 2009 Jan 6. View Abstract

Pentad. Simplifying Your World.

President Obama! Can you add ducks to your stimulus package?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 21:00:00 +0000

Just say YES to ducks for sustainable agriculture!

As long as we take our kids down to the lake to feed the ducks, why not relocate a few of them, and let them further contribute to sustainable agriculture? How, you ask? They eat, weed, and poop. Sorry. I mean defecate. What about duck farmers, and lots of them?

Fancy the thought.

I know we don't deal in sustainable rice paddy agriculture, but Japan is loving their ducks, and we can too! Has anyone heard of the Aigamo method? It's nothing new, as the Furuno family developed the method over 10 years ago. It is now the craze of Southeast Asia, and is spreading like wildfire.

Take a look at this:

The Aigamo method is currently increasing the income of Third World famers from 20 to 50 percent. It might be called the "One Bird Revolution" since ducks are the key. Twenty ducklings released per tenth of a hectare eat insect pests, golden snails and weed seeds and save 240 hours per hectare of manual weeding. Ducks remain on the paddy twenty-four hours a day until the rice forms ears of grain. They are then removed from the fields.

Nitrogen-fixing Azolla fern and duckweed cover the water surface, feeding the ducks and providing cover for edible fish which feed on duck feces and organisms fertilized by the ducks. The only external input is a little waste grain fed the ducks.

The output is a nutritious harvest of organic rice, duck and fish. the productivity is remarkable- 1.4 hectares yields seven tons of rice, 300 ducks, 4,000 ducklings and an adjacent 0.6 hectare supplies organic vegetables for 100 people.

It was calculated that, by using the Aigamo method, no more than 2 percent of Japanese farmers were needed to feed the nation and make it self-sufficient (Wharton, 2001, p74).

Even though this method is based on rice paddies, ducks still execute the same functions, do they not? We can say 'yes' to organic farming where the land is optimally planned and utilized to get the most from the least amount of area, can we not? Could that not free up some of those agricultural fields to renewable energy sources and windmills?

President Obama! Would you consider ducks in your stimulus plan? We're going to need a heck of a lot of these "eater's-n-poop'ers".

Just say YES to ducks!

Wharton, C.H. (2001). Ten thousand years from eden. Athens, GA: WinMark Publishing.

Pentad. Simplifying Your World.

2009 Stands for Fantastic!

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:02:00 +0000

Blogging breaks are great! Actually, I have been quite busy since ringing in 2009. I hope everyone has had a fantastic year, thus far. I certainly have, and it continues as so many exciting and positive things unfold week by week.

I added this picture as proof of one of the activities that kept me hopping in January and the first part of February. We kicked in the Chinese New Year, and had quite a few demonstration commitments around town at various celebrations. The picture was one in a series taken for Houston newspapers before a demonstration. Closing that season, I took the chance to swoop overseas to Norway for a few days, returning home a little less than two weeks ago. Since then, I've picked up tempo in my studies, and am enjoying the arrival of beautiful Spring weather.

This is a quick update as people were contacting me with, "where are you('s)"? Thank you for your messages, and it is high time to get some blogging done.

How is 2009 treating all of you? What's up?

Chilly Days in Europe. Will someone please turn on the gas?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 16:30:00 +0000

European citizens are in danger of freezing in several areas, due to an ongoing 'gas conflict' between Russia and Ukraine, which seems to be anything but resolved. Recent reports (Reuters) state that the last pipelines were closed today.

So, what is the problem? Go figure. Russia has accused Ukraine of not paying bills, not accepting a new price contract, and increasing gas theft (from the supply to Europe). Ukraine claims that they have not used Russian gas for its own needs, and that problems are due to technical difficulties. Russia blames Ukraine for turning off the last pipeline, and Ukraine claims this accusation outrageous, stating that the taps are in Russia.

BBC News informs us of the consequences the conflict has on dependent countries (Source: European Council on Foreign Relations, 2006 figures) This is how bleak it looks for several of them during a current cold streak;

Latvia, Slovakia, Finland, and Estonia are 100% dependent on Russian gas

Bulgaria, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic are more than 80% dependent

Greece, Austria, and Hungary are more than 60% dependent

And, Germany and Italy account for nearly half of the Russian gas consumed in Europe.

So, I was sitting here thinking about the dilemma, and it might be a good idea to head on a mission to hunt down the elusive pipeline taps. I just need a good code name for the mission. Okay, that and an airline ticket. Let's see if I remember the rhyme correctly; "Lefty loosy, righty tighty".

Yeah, that's the ticket. Roadtrip, anyone?

Here's a map of countries affected by the choke (source; BBC News)

Tamera Daun©

Can Rich Countries Compete with Low Foreign Wages?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 23:15:00 +0000

Can rich countries compete with low foreign wages in developing countries? Do we have reason to fear that the products of foreign factories can undersell products from rich countries? Although we may not really think of the U.S. as too wealthy right now, we definitely know that hourly wages are generally higher than in developing countries.

The press and pull coming from certain political circles would indeed like the public to 'fear all things foreign'. From trade to competition, it sometimes doesn't take much to get a knee-jerk reaction from 'we', the public. But, what should we believe? It isn't easy to know. However in this case, the conclusion that low hourly wages of foreign workers leads to an underselling competitive edge regarding products, is a bit of an economic fallacy.

How does it actually work?

Firstly, what actually matters is labor costs per unit, not labor costs per hour. Let's look at an example of a U.S. factory worker earning $20 an hour compared to a foreign factory worker earning $4 dollars an hour. The truth of the matter is that richer countries tend to have more advanced technology that aids in producing more units of output per hour than their foreign competitors in developing countries.

The U.S. worker may just produce 20 units per hour, and the foreign worker 4 units per hour as a result. This does mean that the labor cost per unit of output for both workers is $1. It does not mean 'lower labor costs per unit'.

Despite huge differences in labor costs per hour, labor costs per unit are often nearly identical as a result of differences in productivity. Wage differences across countries really do tend to reflect productivity differences.

On a last note, here's a little 'heads up'. There is one way that near equality of labor costs per unit can become screwed up, and accountability ultimately lies on the plates of governments. This happens when governments artificially fix low exchange rates. Yes, this means currency manipulation, and it causes labor costs per unit to seem artificially low to consumers.

Tamera Daun©

Confidence. In the economy or in general, what does it actually mean?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 22:16:00 +0000

The word 'confidence' booms daily throughout the media. Repeated inquiries question confidence people have in the economy, the current and upcoming Administration, and other influential people in charge of decisions that affect our lives. But what does it really mean? And, why do we deem it to be so important?

Firstly, confidence is really only one of several terms/characteristics, which collectively describes a more broad concept of "trust". So, this is a key point for us to understand. I believe that it is actually 'trust' that we are after; as individuals, citizens, and as consumers. To have confidence in something is to 'trust'.

We generally think of 'the economy' in vague and general terms. It is sometimes difficult to understand the complexity, and it is therefore difficult to know what or who to trust. And let's face it, much of it is in the hands of others. It is these individuals that we must relate to, and figure out where we can place our trust. We all have to admit that when a group of industry-related CEO's fly in on separate corporate jets to ask for bailout aid and loans, it does tend to cause skepticism.

It is essential to have 'good plans', but how they will be executed is greatly dependent upon individuals, and these individuals are ordinary human beings, right? So, the characteristic of 'confidence' and the concept of 'trust' are threads throughout any arena in which each of us operate. They permeate each and every area of life; as private people and citizens, and as professionals.

Who we are and that which we have developed into our core being, is what we show the world through the ways in which we operate and relate.

I thought it was quite fascinating to take a closer look at all of this. I won't go into long descriptions of key components/characteristics of individuals that enjoy high 'trust' among others (I don't want you to fall asleep), but rather tick off the generals.

See what you think about them; if you agree or disagree. I used a long time mulling them over to make up my own mind regarding their validity in the practical world of 'life'.

There was a study done a while back about public trust and 42 major professions (Mortensen, K., 2008, p122). It showed that Nurses came in second place topped only by Firefighters (65%). Nurses enjoy a 58% trust level among the general public, but it doesn't come for free. We have to work for, and earn every ounce of that trust, and it's not something that can be 'faked'. If we mess up, it can have dire consequences. The trust of people/patients/clients can never be taken for granted as 'a given', and the 58% means that we have to keep improving ourselves as people and Nurses.

Here are five key components/characteristics of people that gain the long-lasting trust of others (Mortensen, K., 2008, p123-137):

Character: "This is the combination of qualities that distinguish one person from another. They make up who you are on the inside (not an external front). What do you do when no one is watching, when there is no one to impress? How do you treat people when you don't need something from them? Character is also made up of such qualities as integrity, honesty, sincerity, and predictability. It also includes a caring and forthcoming attitude".

Competence: "Competency exists on many levels, but shows knowledge and ability in a particular subject area. It is built from lifelong learning and experience. Can you really do what you say you can do? Can you deliver? Do you have the skills, knowledge, and resources?"

Confidence: "Confidence is a trigger of trust. A few factors that inhibit confidence are; lack of belief, replaying failures, negative attitude, indecision, destructive thoughts, worry, hesitation, and mood. They are all based on 'fear' of some kind. On the flip-side, overconfidence relays an attitude of cockiness and arrogance. What is the difference? Intention. Confidence is motivated by a sincere desire to serve, make a difference, and do a great job. Cocky individuals seek approval, recognition, and honor from all the wrong sources, in all the wrong ways, and for all the wrong reasons. Cockiness is self-centered, and confidence is people-centered".

Credibility: "This includes being calm and well-organized. Honesty also overlaps this characteristic. People that are deemed 'credible' easily admit both their strengths and weaknesses, and are non-fearful of admitting when they may be wrong. People can forgive weaknesses, but are not as willing to forgive cover-ups. Credibility also includes; having expertise, trustworthiness, goodwill, dynamism, extroversion, sociability, and composure".

Congruence: "Congruence is when your words match your actions. Agreement and harmony between what you say and what you do are paramount to instilling trust in others. When you possess congruency, there's no reason to manipulate or camouflage your behavior". Short and sweet. "Are you congruent with your history, your last interaction, and your reputation? Does your nonverbal behavior match your actions? Are your emotions congruent with your messages? If not, suspicion will be roused in others, and they will begin to look for things that are wrong with that which is relayed".

Stick with me here for a moment longer.

Why do we register these qualities, and absorb these impressions? Why are they important to us?

Well, isn't it really because what others decide and do, so often influences and affects our own lives? We use it as a compass in those situations and circumstances in which we may not have all the information/facts on the table, don't know a person well enough, weren't there to observe what happened, or may not have enough influence to effectively 'influence' a situation.

This is actually about each and every single one of us. The bad news is that research shows that most people tend to overrate themselves with regards to these qualities. We think that we master them better than we actually do, and people in our environments would rate us lower on a scale, than we rate ourselves.

The good news is that we can work to develop these qualities and integrate them as a natural way of being and operating in the world, both on a personal and professional level. However, we have to become these qualities to/for ourselves, first and foremost. When they become components of our nature, we don't have to think about them as much, or try so hard. The real reward is that it easily paves our way to success (no matter what we define that to be).

Lastly. Allow me to share the above information in practical application (Mortensen, K., 2008, p138).

Imagine that you've moved to a new city, and you are looking for a good dentist. So, you ask around for recommendations, and this is what you hear from others. These examples clearly bring these qualities into the light of day, and show what happens when they are lacking:

"My dentist has great character. He belongs to my church group. He is one of the most honest people I know. He's not very competent, though. I heard he's famous for sticking the needle completely through your cheek." -Would you go to this dentist?-

"My dentist went to one of the top dental schools in the country, and he's one of the top dentists in the state. He's extremely competent, but has no character. In fact, you will have to wait two months before you can see him because he's in prison for insurance fraud" -Would you go to this dentist?-

"My dentist is a really great guy. He's a goodhearted person, and he always does exactly what he says he's going to do. But he doesn't have much confidence in his work. One time he said to me, 'I've never been very good at reading X-rays. I'm not sure whether I should give you a root canal or just leave the tooth alone.'" -Would you go to this dentist?-

"I'm not sure if my dentist is licensed. I didn't see any degree or diplomas on his wall, and no one seems to know where he went to school. His office doesn't have the latest equipment. he doesn't take insurance and I always have to pay cash instead of writing a check. Everything lacks credibility". -Would you go to this dentist?-

"My dentist is a nice guy, but he doesn't keep his stories straight. There is something about what he says and how he acts that doesn't seem right. He seems to lack congruence. He tells me one thing and I feel something else. I don't think I am getting the whole truth. It just doesn't feel right. He tells you one thing at a time, and another thing the next time. You never know which one is right". -Would you go to this dentist?-

"It's no use carrying an umbrella if your shoes are leaking"
--Irish Proverb--

Resource: Mortensen, K. (2008), Persuasion IQ. New York. AMACOM.

Tamera Daun©

Bank Robbery Laugh of the Day

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 06:20:00 +0000

How would you plan the perfect bank robbery?

Would you write a threatening note and avoid speaking, so that your voice could not be recognized? That would be a pretty good idea, wouldn't it?

That is exactly what a thief in Chicago did. He handed over a note with the threat of, "Be quick. Give your cash, or I'll shoot"! (BBC News) It got him $400 dollars. As he fled the scene, he left his note behind.

The problem was that he had written his message on the back of his paycheck, which conveniently provided the police with his full name and address.

Ah, haste and carelessness.

Tamera Daun©

Bush's Bailout Loophole. A matter of terms.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 06:33:00 +0000

A looming question has busied the minds of the general public regarding funds given from the initial $700 billion bailout account.

We observed that several financial institutions received unconditional aid, and there were seemingly absolutely no strings attached in Paulson's plan. As the situation unfolded, criticism led a few CEO's to cut their pay and benefits.

Many of us have wondered, 'how can this be'? Why, for example, were The Big Three hit with harsh criticism and clear demands for a plan, while those first institutions basically received an easy check? In a post entitled, Bailout Prognosis. Predicting failure regardless of Paulson flip-flop, written in November, it was so very clear that the dots didn't connect. To state that nothing made sense, would definitely be an understatement.

There was, however, a key piece of information in The Washington Post (last week) that escaped my attention. I'll put it to you as cited by secondary source, The Center for Media and Democracy. Thank you to eddie at The Cliff Walk, for calling it to my attention.

When Congress drafted the $700 billion financial bailout bill, they intended to limit Wall Street executives' sky-high pay. To do this, they included a process for reviewing executive pay, recovering bonuses based on unrealized earnings, prohibiting "golden parachutes" and punishing firms that break the rules.

But just before the bill passed, the Bush administration insisted Congress make one little change in the bill's wording that pertained to that provision.

The change said that penalties would only apply to firms that sold their troubled assets at an auction, since that was how the Treasury Department originally said it planned to use the money. But auctions have not been used to dispose of bad assets after all, and Bush's change effectively created a loophole allowing companies that take bailout money to circumvent restrictions on top executives' lavish pay.

Senators on the Finance Committee are considering whether they should amend the law to assure the enforcement mechanism applies to firms that participate in the bailout.

Senators should get a move on to rectify the situation, and sooner rather than later.

Loopholes and ailing transparency undoubtedly and greatly undermine public confidence. They are confidence and trust killers.

Related Posts;

AIG News
Diversion from Subprime Catastrophe

Tamera Daun©

Merry Christmas, 2008!

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 16:23:00 +0000

I just wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas We were on a Christmas light hunt yesterday evening, and no one 'does it up' like Texans! Enjoy the holidays, relax when you can, and if you can still 'move' after all the eatings, take a look at these lights.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Who ever said George Bush didn't unite the world?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 18:48:00 +0000

Someone is going to throw a shoe at me for writing 'Poor George', but I couldn't resist. Old George looks exhausted, and is probably looking forward to retiring to his corner of Texas.

The world is certainly counting down his last days.

Yeah, that would pretty much be the whole world. Now, who ever said that George Bush didn't unite the global community? That is just not true.

When you need a little break, take a minute and have some fun. Throw a shoe at George Bush. The United States is currently leading, with France in second, and Australia in third of the top ten countries.

Play:

Sock and Awe!

Tamera Daun©

Celebrating 1 Year Anniversary. Pentad's Blog.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 18:30:00 +0000

Pentad's blog celebrates its one year anniversary/birthday today, the 20th of December.

One year ago I sat down and was mind-boggled by profound and deep questions, such as; What is a blog? And, what in the heck is a feed? As the first couple of posts were published, I found myself staring into the screen yelling, "Helloooooooo! Is anybody out there"?

As any blogger knows, a lot of development occurs within the first year, and we experience that people find their way to our sites in the strangest ways. They sometimes punch in some pretty wacky keywords commanding Google to fulfill their quest for 'whatever'. Aside from Sarah Palin and politics in general, the most popular query leading people to Pentad was due to the following post: Michelle Obama's Makeover. What a Crock!

Yet, it was not a keyword like Michelle, or Obama they were typing. No, it was not even the word 'makeover'. It did have to do with a little passage IN the post, and it goes like this;

"I claim that we have gotten to know her. How much do we really need to know? Do we need to know her bra size as well?"

Yes, folks. Almost every day since then, my stats show searches for "Michelle Obama's bra size", and "Michelle Obama's breast size". And even searches for, "Naked pictures of Michelle Obama's breasts".

So many times I've been on the verge of asking the question, "What in the heck"? But, you know what? Taken into account the amount of searches I've seen using the keywords, "gator sex" as a result of all of the posts I've written about our alligator-family out back...I don't even want to know.

I have extra fond memories of the first 3-4 months of this blog's existence, and that has much to do with the process of developing it, banter in the comment section, and the excitement of posting each day.

Sy and Mr. Floog were the first bloggers to ever comment on the site, and although Floog went over to photography, he did guest author here with this post;
From a Man's Heart

Several other bloggers contributed with loads of fun during these first months of fumbling, and they made blogging an exciting adventure! Jane, Intrepid, Eddie, Jack, Blogger Exposed, Piebuko, Houseonahill, Mikiye, Bill, and many more!

To bring back one past tiny success in remembrance, it would have to be the number of times the following video-clip kept Sy laughing. Over and over again.

Anyhow. I'd just like to thank everyone for stopping by throughout these past 12 months! And to fellow blogging-colleagues, I wish you all fantastic blogging success in 2009.

Take Care,
Tami

Every-Which-Way Christmas Commitments

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 21:10:00 +0000

This is it, isn't it? The last weekend before Christmas. Did I hear a choir of 'sighs and grunts' rejoice? How many are torn between commitments each year? No, I don't mean the shopping. I do mean those that feel it is expected of them to be everywhere at once. Now, who would expect such a thing?

Ah, yes. Loving and well-meaning family and friends.

You all know what I mean. Aunt Gertrude hasn't pinched your cheeks in ages, and is anxiously awaiting your arrival wearing her best holiday plum lipstick. Mom and Mother-in-law both expect you to spend the main day attraction, Christmas Day, with them. Yes, both of them. Yeah, that would be at the same time.

Oh, and don't forget all of the grandparents, and great-grandparents! It's a chore to get the kiddies everywhere to visit everyone, and that's in-between the Christmas plays, concerts, school parties, and getting all of those varying family traditions to mix into one friggin' melting pot. I mean, 'beautiful' melting pot. Whew!

Granted, there are many that rev up their adrenalin, and enter the season in full vigor and excitement. But that doesn't mean that hustle-and-bustle is for everyone. There are those that wake up on January 2nd to the aftermath of dirty dishes and piles of shopping receipts and ask the turkey carcass before them on the counter, "What just happened?", and "Where am I"?

Well, this post is for those of you that don't feel like 'turkey talking' this year. Just look at it as a gesture of encouragement and support. I am currently reading an entertaining book, and I wanted to share a fable the author shared with 'us', his readers. It may seem like a self-improvement book by the story, but it's not. The author didn't cite the source in his endnotes, so I have no idea where it came from. Maybe someone out there has heard it before.

It portrays a message of; "Try to please everyone, and you will please no one"

The Man, the Boy, and the Donkey.

A man and his son were once going with their donkey to the city. As they were walking along by the animal's side, a farmer passed them and said, "You fools, what is a donkey for but to ride on?"

So the man put the boy on the donkey and they went on their way. But soon, they passed a group of men. One said, "See that lazy boy; he lets his father walk while he rides the donkey."

So, the man told his boy to get off, and then he got on himself. But they hadn't gone far when they passed three women. One said to the other, "Shame on that lazy man to let his poor little son walk".

Well, the man wasn't sure what to do, but he and his son began to ride the donkey together. By this time, they had come to the town, and the people began to holler and point at them. The man stopped and asked what they were yelling at. The men said, "Aren't you ashamed of yourself for overloading that poor donkey?"

The man and the boy got off the pack animal and tried to think what to do. They thought and they thought. They cut down a pole, tied the donkey's feet to it, and raised both the pole and the donkey to their shoulders. They then walked along in the middle of the laughter of all who met them.

Finally, they came to a bridge. That's when the donkey, getting one of his feet loose, kicked and caused the boy to drop his end of the pole. In the struggle, the donkey accidentally fell over the bridge, and because his feet were tied together, the donkey drowned.

Simplify.

Ho, ho, ho....

Happy shopping everyone. But before you go, here's a little entertainment to get you in the mood;

Hit it, Santa!

Tamera Daun©

George Bush Addressed 'The Big Three' Question Today

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 19:25:00 +0000

George Bush went on record today with a preliminary bailout assessment regarding 'The Big Three'.

Bush pointed out that he believes that failing entities should be allowed to fail. But as he stated this, he also emphasized that, "these are no ordinary circumstances". He said that he personally has no wish to go down in history as the President that led the nation into a greater depression since the last Great Depression. Taking the advice of his experts, he seems to believe in this potential reality.

George informed us that the "financial system is tightly interwoven", domestically and internationally. And if the auto industry were to go down, the ripple effects would be devastating for everyone.

It was announced that Obama and Bush will be meeting soon for a 'get together'.

Meanwhile, The Big Three have decided to delay projects and shut down production plants all the way up to Canada. They inform that these plants will be closed for a month, and some even longer. They attempt to 'save costs' due to stagnant credit flow and low sales.

In addition to cutting expenditures, is it not also a tactic utilized to put pressure on Washington, and/or banks? The measure does present a 'preview' of a looming disaster. Does it not? It may just push up the time line on a Bush bailout.

Related posts:

Inevitable 'Big-Bridge-Loan-Out' for The Big Three

Tamera Daun©

Inevitable "Bail-Bridge-Loan-Out" for The Big Three

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 18:00:00 +0000

That's it, folks. Bailout. Bridge loan. Call it what you want, The Big Three will eventually receive a rescuing hand. It is inevitable, and there seems to be overwhelming consensus in wishing for The Big Three to remain afloat. Or, would that be keep the wheels turning? Yes, even Toyota wants Ford, Chrysler, and GM to be bailed out.

The discussion was nothing but a display. Yes, absurdly futile proceedings. That would mean a complete farce, and a waste of time.

Among others, Honda and Toyota fear that suppliers they share with The Big Three would go down with them, causing production problems and affecting the expenditure end of the issue.

"Since most parts in an automobile have only a single supplier producing them, the disruptions in production will be severe and prolonged." (cnn.com)

They also fear that it would crush an already weak demand on the consumer end. Yet, the fear does not end there, because the greatest is the longterm effect of new competition entering the market;

The failure of a U.S. automaker could open the door for a Chinese or Indian automaker to buy up the assets of the failed company and create a new low-cost competitor in the U.S.

"You could open the door for foreign companies to buy distressed assets at rock-bottom prices," Erick Merkle (auto analyst) said. He pointed to India's Tata (TTM) and China's Geely as two automakers in the developing world that are already on record as being interested in expanding into western markets like the United States. (cnn.com)

Glancing over the pond, GM and Ford were both profitable in 2007 and the first half of 2008, however, they would most likely not sustain independently without their parent companies in the U.S. Again, the trap lies in shared suppliers filing bankruptcy and low demand;

Over the years, Ford has tended to be stronger in Europe while G.M. has been more successful in China, said Peter Morici, a professor at the School of Business at University of Maryland. And in recent years both companies have enjoyed hefty profits in Latin America, especially Brazil.

“Until now, overseas operations have not been drains on cash,” said Rod Lache, a Deutsche Bank analyst in New York. “But with sales now down 35 percent-plus in Brazil and off 30 to 35 percent in Western Europe, every market in the world looks like it will burn cash.”

While it has been largely obscured in the current debate in Washington over aid to the ailing industry, Detroit and Europe are closely intertwined.

Ford and G.M. employ a combined 120,000 workers across Europe and together sold roughly four million cars there last year. Nearly a quarter of the 9.37 million cars G.M. sold worldwide in 2007 were purchased by European customers. (New York Times)

Fear of new low-cost competition rumbles through the industry. Oh, 'woe is status-quo'.

And, new competition lowers demand for suppliers? Really? Huh.

Perhaps business really isn't about sustainability and viability after all.

Humor me here. I have another unpopular question to ask. Maybe 'auto industry' just isn't our 'thing' anymore? Are there better uses for those resources that would create jobs, and new profitable markets for this nation in the future?

George Bush is expected to save the day. Did you all catch his statement yesterday? Yes, he is 'moving away from free-trade principles in order to save free-trade'.

Yeah, that's the ticket. Move along people. There's nothing more to see in the "Three Ring Circus".

Tamera Daun©

Economy Students Plan Coup in 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 22:40:00 +0000

Rumors of an economic upheaval are making their way throughout university halls. Students aim to shake the very foundation of the neoclassical economic paradigm.

Manifestos will be signed, teach-ins will be held, provocations will air on mainstream channels, and professors will meet the angry and disgruntled faces of their students.

"The neoclassical paradigm is only taught as a result of institutional lethargy, tenure and fear. But now, with ecological and financial crises looming all around us, the time is right for newly inspired students to crash this archaic system and set the profession on a new path. The post autistic movement paved the way, now we finish the job" (Adbusters Magazine).

The following is an example of a manifesto that will be nailed to the doors of professors. (www.truecosteconomics.org):

We, the Undersigned, make this accusation: that you, the teachers of neoclassical economics and the students you graduate, have perpetuated a gigantic fraud upon the world.

You claim to work in a pure science of formula and law, but yours is a social science, with all the fragility and uncertainty that this entails. We accuse you of pretending to be what you are not.

You hide in your offices, protected by your mathematical jargon, while in the real world, forests vanish, species perish and human lives are callously destroyed. We accuse you of gross negligence in the management of our planetary household.

You have known since its inception that one of your measures of economic progress, the Gross Domestic Product, is fundamentally flawed and incomplete, and yet you have allowed it to become a global standard, reported day in day out in every form of media. We accuse you of recklessly projecting an illusion of progress.

You have done great harm, but your time is coming to its close. Your systems are crumbling, your flaws increasingly laid bare. An economic revolution has begun, as hopeful and determined as any in history. We will have our clash of economic paradigms, we will have our moment of truth, and out of each will come a new economics- open, whole, human-scale.

On campus after campus, we will chase you old goats out of power. Then, in the months and years that follow, we will begin the work of reprogramming your doomsday machine.

AIG News. Bonus? Or, Just Bogus?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 04:54:00 +0000

Here we go again. AIG is once more in the spotlight for payouts. It is obvious that increasing scepticism has replaced what little confidence was left, and most went numb weeks ago.

What's up with AIG now? We thought we had heard the last/worst of them.

As we remember, AIG promised right before Thanksgiving that bonus payments would be cut, however they still found a way to pay out the frills. The perks bear no term of "bonus". No, the cash compensation goes by the title of "retention program".

As expected, research on the subject turned up a lot of 'boiling blood'. The limit was reached long ago for many, and the need for fair solutions sorely necessary.

Let's take a look at statements from both sides.

The following is from Bloomberg:

American International Group Inc., the insurer whose bonuses and perks are under fire from U.S. lawmakers, offered cash awards to another 38 executives in a retention program with payments of as much as $4 million.

The incentives range from $92,500 to $4 million for employees earning salaries between $160,000 and $1 million, Chief Executive Officer Edward Liddy said in a letter dated Dec. 5 to Representative Elijah Cummings. The New York-based insurer had previously disclosed that 130 managers would get the awards and that one executive would get $3 million.

“I remain concerned, as do many American taxpayers, that these retention payments are simply bonuses by another name,” Cummings said in letter responding to Liddy.

AIG, which received a U.S. rescue package of more than $152 billion, has been criticized for saying it will eliminate bonuses for senior executives while still planning to hand out “cash awards” that double or triple the salaries of some managers. The payments are designed to keep top employees at AIG while Liddy seeks to sell units and pay back the federal government, which owns 79.9 percent of AIG.

Keeping the managers is necessary to maintain credit ratings and meet requirements in some reinsurance agreements, Liddy wrote. AIG disclosed the initial list of 130 managers in a September filing without saying how much most of the recipients will get. Another 38 people were added “subsequently,” according to Liddy’s letter, which didn’t disclose the new recipients or say when they had been added.

Retention means 'retaining' or 'being retained', correct? And, one meaning of the word retain is, 'to secure the services of a person with a preliminary payment'. In other words, 'key employees' receive offerings in order to stay with AIG, and not jump ship.

AIG, or more correctly CEO Liddy, has answered the points of criticism in their defence. The following is a quick summary of the break-down justifications (from Daily Kos), given by Liddy for the retention program.

Because part of the plan is to repay taxpayers by selling some of the individual businesses under the AIG umbrella, "key employees" must be retained to ensure higher value and thus a higher selling price. Competitors are circling to "siphon off" talent.

If we lose our "key employees," our credit ratings will suffer, which will ultimately affect our ability to repay taxpayers.

Reinsurers are requiring us to retain "critical employees" and will cancel our contracts if they leave.

AIG filed specifics on the payments with the SEC, and here are some of the details:

Directors approved retention payments for 168 employees – which included approximately 130 employees, plus an additional 38 who were subsequently added based on authority granted by the Committee. These individuals were selected to participate based on their individual performance, the importance of their position to the organization, key client relationships that are crucial to retaining our client base, potential for organizational advancement, degree of position difficulty, degree of flight risk, and their ability to recruit others if they were to depart.

Specifically, 13 of the employees who are receiving retention payments have agreed to delay receipt of the first part of this payment until April of 2009. These 13 individuals are executive officers of the company. The agreement by these 13 executives was an important element in the Treasury Department’s latest agreement with AIG. The timetable for these payments is designed to keep our employees onboard during this critical period.

The base salaries for those involved in these retention payments range from $160,000 per year to $1,000,000 per year, and the retention awards range from $92,500 to $4,000,000. These retention payments will be made in two installments over a 12 month period.

The employees who qualified for these payments are highly specialized and cannot easily be replaced.

Liddy states that the top executives are sacrificing. Liddy will receive a salary of $1 in 2009, and will not be eligible for severance payments. Others in the Leadership Group will receive neither bonuses, nor salary increases. AIG's Chief Restructuring Officer will only be eligible for compensation, (2009 and beyond) directly tied to her restructuring efforts (other than her base salary). Liddy elaborates further by stating:

The other five members of AIG’s top-seven-officer Leadership Group will not receive annual bonuses for 2008 or salary increases through 2009. Executive Vice President of Retirement Services Jay Wintrob and Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer David Herzog are included in this group. Also, David Herzog did not accept a raise when he became the company’s Chief Financial Officer. In addition, this group has agreed to defer retention payments that were due to them in December, and they also agreed that they would not be eligible for both unpaid retention and severance payments. The Leadership Group, and an additional 10 executive officers, have also agreed to defer their retention payments due to them in December 2008 and also agreed they would not be eligible for both unpaid retention and severance payments.

There will be no salary increases through 2009 for approximately 40 other top executives who are part of this retention pool.

A lot of people are understandably bitter about AIG receiving that initial rescue package. However, all emotions put aside; sunk costs are sunk. Period. The money is gone. At this point the restructuring process is more important.

People wanted AIG management to cut their own wages. They wanted them to burn as much as average citizens. Is that not correct? I believe so, and even though it may be difficult to admit. Emotions reach rage level in part because these salaries are higher than most people can dream about, and fathom. Yet, I am sure that most would say, "thank you very much" if that type of pay came their way.

Everyone knows that there has been an enormous amount of mismanagement across the board. We all want it to stop, and for restructuring to begin. All entities (down to individual families) are going to have to cut a loss. We also know that our economy is tightly knit and complex. So, there just may be some substance in Liddy's statements.

Now, someone is bound to become enraged for this, and that is quite alright. Let it all out/shout it out (I'm used to it), but I just have to ask a (most likely) very unpopular question;

Is it not just a little strange that people are so adamant in their support of Detroit employees keeping their current wages, rather than cutting them down to levels found elsewhere in the auto industry? Do they want to keep a job through these difficult times, or not?

Yet, people would be happy if Liddy & Co worked for free for the next few years to keep their own afloat, although working for free is not desirable for anyone. Especially not through what will be a difficult restructuring process.

We all understand that there is a vast difference in income brackets, but isn't the principle a bit similar? Aside from anger about mismanagement and bailouts;

Is there not a little envy mixed into that menu?

Tamera Daun©