Tapestry™
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Hope for the obese
Some people struggle with weight their entire life. Now the obese have hope.
Researchers in Melbourne, Australia, have discovered an enzyme that may be the cause of obesity. They found that mice without the enzyme were 20% lighter and had 50 – 60% less body fat than mice with the enzyme.
Apparently the enzyme slows down the processing of sugar, which can also lead to diabetes. Without the enzyme, the slimmer mice are much less susceptible to diabetes.
Some people struggle with weight their entire life. Now the obese have hope.Researchers in Melbourne, Australia, have discovered an enzyme that may be the cause of obesity. They found that mice without the enzyme were 20% lighter and had 50 – 60% less body fat than mice with the enzyme.
Apparently the enzyme slows down the processing of sugar, which can also lead to diabetes. Without the enzyme, the slimmer mice are much less susceptible to diabetes.
Labels: Healthcare, News
¶ 4/30/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Why call them “Special People”
The term "Special People" is often used for those with developmental delays. Some feel the term reflects political correctness. Others use the term because they know that each special person contains a miraculous gift or talent waiting to be discovered.
Such was the case when we told you about Carly Fleishman, an autistic girl that can only communicate using the keyboard on her PC. Now I want to share the story of how a special person with downs syndrome changed the corporate culture at a grocery store.
Such was the case when we told you about Carly Fleishman, an autistic girl that can only communicate using the keyboard on her PC. Now I want to share the story of how a special person with downs syndrome changed the corporate culture at a grocery store.
Labels: Corporate, Special_People
¶ 4/29/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Monday, April 28, 2008
Top cultural events of 1968
Many of the people, events, and things that shape today’s pop culture date back four decades. David Hinckley of the New York Daily News has published a list of the top 13 moments of 1968 having a lasting cultural impact.
Admittedly he focuses on American events, however the impact of the events he has chosen had an impact on the Baby Boomer culture around the world.
Here are some of the highlights of the list:
Here is the famous clip of Richard Nixon on Laugh-In:
Many of the people, events, and things that shape today’s pop culture date back four decades. David Hinckley of the New York Daily News has published a list of the top 13 moments of 1968 having a lasting cultural impact.Admittedly he focuses on American events, however the impact of the events he has chosen had an impact on the Baby Boomer culture around the world.
Here are some of the highlights of the list:
- Big Mac is introduced.
- Elvis made a comeback.
- “60 Minutes” introduced the world to the news-magazine format.
- Hollywood introduced movie ratings.
- Richard Nixon appeared on “Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In”.
- Otis Redding won a Grammy posthumously for “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay”.
For the entire list, click here.
Here is the famous clip of Richard Nixon on Laugh-In:
Labels: Generation, News
¶ 4/28/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Alaskans teach Russians culture protectionism
The Inupiat of Alaska was able to preserve their culture then the Alaskan Pipeline was built in the 1900s. Today, the East Siberian Pacific Pipleine is presenting the same challenge to in Yakutia, located in southern Sakha.
As reported in the Arctic Sounder, leaders made trips to Barrow and Nuiquest, both in Alaska, during the last week in March and in early April. Pacific Environment of San Francisco sponsored the event.
Although history has shown that cultures can survive tremendous adversity, it has also shown that consciously working to preserve a culture provides a stronger continuity.
What are you doing to protect your regional culture? Is it worth protecting? ¶ 4/27/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
The Inupiat of Alaska was able to preserve their culture then the Alaskan Pipeline was built in the 1900s. Today, the East Siberian Pacific Pipleine is presenting the same challenge to in Yakutia, located in southern Sakha.As reported in the Arctic Sounder, leaders made trips to Barrow and Nuiquest, both in Alaska, during the last week in March and in early April. Pacific Environment of San Francisco sponsored the event.
Although history has shown that cultures can survive tremendous adversity, it has also shown that consciously working to preserve a culture provides a stronger continuity.
What are you doing to protect your regional culture? Is it worth protecting? ¶ 4/27/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Saturday, April 26, 2008
MySpace uses local cultural info for success
Google and Yahoo have not been able to gain the market presence in South Korea they enjoy throughout the rest of the world. As one of the world’s most wired nations, South Koreans are tech savvy and have enough of a buying power to allow the development of Korean-focused website. Local competitors, such as Daum Communications and Naver Web, are designed specifically for the South Korean culture and are being rewarded by the loyalty of the Asian nation.
Recognizing this, MySpace took the time to learn the local culture and made enhancements to connect with Korean youth. One feature developed specifically for the Korean language site is “Minilog”. Users are able to write down everyday thoughts and feelings.
The result has been major inroads in building bridges to the South Korean culture, providing a strong challenge to South Korea’s dominant Cyworld.
All companies should have a strategy to reach out to new customers on a cultural basis. ¶ 4/26/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Google and Yahoo have not been able to gain the market presence in South Korea they enjoy throughout the rest of the world. As one of the world’s most wired nations, South Koreans are tech savvy and have enough of a buying power to allow the development of Korean-focused website. Local competitors, such as Daum Communications and Naver Web, are designed specifically for the South Korean culture and are being rewarded by the loyalty of the Asian nation.Recognizing this, MySpace took the time to learn the local culture and made enhancements to connect with Korean youth. One feature developed specifically for the Korean language site is “Minilog”. Users are able to write down everyday thoughts and feelings.
The result has been major inroads in building bridges to the South Korean culture, providing a strong challenge to South Korea’s dominant Cyworld.
All companies should have a strategy to reach out to new customers on a cultural basis. ¶ 4/26/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Friday, April 25, 2008
Are men or women better drivers?
There has long been a gender culture question about who are the best drivers: men or women. We now have the answer thanks to a survey by Private Fleet. Rather than using accident or ticketed violation data, their approach was to confidentially survey drivers to find out “admitted” driving habits.
Women excelled at not driving while drunk, talking on cell phones only when using a hands-free device, and not speeding. In fact there was only one category where men practice safer driving habits – they are less likely to drive while text-messaging.
Some additional interesting outcomes: BMW are the most likely to drive intoxicated while Hyundai drivers are less likely to speed or trying to intimidate other drivers.
It is important to note that negative driving habits were admitted by 32% or less in every category, meaning that the majority or drivers by gender or car-brand are obeying the law.
¶ 4/25/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
There has long been a gender culture question about who are the best drivers: men or women. We now have the answer thanks to a survey by Private Fleet. Rather than using accident or ticketed violation data, their approach was to confidentially survey drivers to find out “admitted” driving habits.
Women excelled at not driving while drunk, talking on cell phones only when using a hands-free device, and not speeding. In fact there was only one category where men practice safer driving habits – they are less likely to drive while text-messaging.
Some additional interesting outcomes: BMW are the most likely to drive intoxicated while Hyundai drivers are less likely to speed or trying to intimidate other drivers.
It is important to note that negative driving habits were admitted by 32% or less in every category, meaning that the majority or drivers by gender or car-brand are obeying the law.
¶ 4/25/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Rents indicate perception is regional
Perception has a great impact on one’s view of reality. What a person accepts as right or wrong depends on cultural norms set, in many cases, by local customs and issues. We have earlier reported that the use of corn as a fuel additive is readily accepted in Canada and Argentina where corn is abundant and thought of as a crime against humanity in Zambia and Ethiopia where non-edible plants could serve the same petroleum stretching goal.
A recent report about global rent rates accentuates this point. In Hong Kong a three-bedroom domicile averages the equivalent or $9,700 per month making it the costliest locality in which to live from a monthly housing perceptive. Find a place for $6,000 per month and thoughts turn to “there must be something wrong with it”. Yet the global average rent, according to ECA International, is $3,820 for three bedrooms. This means the “cheap” rent in Hong Kong would buy luxury in many other places.
The priciest rents were in Hong Kong, Moscow, New York City, Tokyo, London, Mumbai, and Seoul. ¶ 4/24/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Perception has a great impact on one’s view of reality. What a person accepts as right or wrong depends on cultural norms set, in many cases, by local customs and issues. We have earlier reported that the use of corn as a fuel additive is readily accepted in Canada and Argentina where corn is abundant and thought of as a crime against humanity in Zambia and Ethiopia where non-edible plants could serve the same petroleum stretching goal.A recent report about global rent rates accentuates this point. In Hong Kong a three-bedroom domicile averages the equivalent or $9,700 per month making it the costliest locality in which to live from a monthly housing perceptive. Find a place for $6,000 per month and thoughts turn to “there must be something wrong with it”. Yet the global average rent, according to ECA International, is $3,820 for three bedrooms. This means the “cheap” rent in Hong Kong would buy luxury in many other places.
The priciest rents were in Hong Kong, Moscow, New York City, Tokyo, London, Mumbai, and Seoul. ¶ 4/24/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Outlook on education may be cultural
How a student looks at success may depend on their ethnicity and culture according to a recent study from Harvard University. Researchers focused on the relationship between being “cool” and being “smart” among peers. They found children in all ethnicities overwhelmingly desired to be perceived as cool by their peers – and the link between coolness and smartness were strongly linked.
The survey looked at 9,000 students. The optimal coolness was B+ for African-Americans and C- for Latinos, according to the Harvard survey.
Mercury News interviewed California children to understand the reality of the implications of survey results. Their interviews, published at TheLedger.com, suggests changing cultural conceptions could be one of the main keys to improving grade point averages
The survey looked at 9,000 students. The optimal coolness was B+ for African-Americans and C- for Latinos, according to the Harvard survey.
Mercury News interviewed California children to understand the reality of the implications of survey results. Their interviews, published at TheLedger.com, suggests changing cultural conceptions could be one of the main keys to improving grade point averages
Labels: African-American, Hispanic, Millennial
¶ 4/23/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Monday, April 21, 2008
Cultural festivals may feel economic pinch
Cultural celebrations around the world may suffer from global economic worries if a survey from the Kasikorn Research is correct. Taken for the Songkran Festival in Bangkok and reported by the Thai News Agency, the survey found potential attendance may be inhibited by rising travel and living costs.
The Songkran Festival celebrates the Thai New Year.
This could be bad news for any cultural festival that depends on distant tourism to fuel its attendance as the survey looked more at distant air travel than those traveling shorter distances by car, train, or bus.
Cultural celebrations around the world may suffer from global economic worries if a survey from the Kasikorn Research is correct. Taken for the Songkran Festival in Bangkok and reported by the Thai News Agency, the survey found potential attendance may be inhibited by rising travel and living costs.The Songkran Festival celebrates the Thai New Year.
This could be bad news for any cultural festival that depends on distant tourism to fuel its attendance as the survey looked more at distant air travel than those traveling shorter distances by car, train, or bus.
Labels: News
¶ 4/21/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Gas price hikes to be announced 24-hours in advance
The rising cost of gasoline (petrol) is having a dramatic impact on the fixed-income and poor economic cultures, the recreational travel culture and many others. With pricing increasing as much as 10% in a single day, governments around the world are looking for ways to stabilize the daily fluctuation.
In Western Australia FuelWatch is being credited by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission with keeping fuel prices approximately two cents cheaper per liter than the rest of Australia. The program requires gasoline (petrol) stations to post their price for the following day by 2:00 pm the prior day. By 3:00 pm prices are published on the Internet and available on a toll-free number or over text messaging. Motorists are then able to locate the station with the lowest pump (bowser) prices for the next day.
The rising cost of gasoline (petrol) is having a dramatic impact on the fixed-income and poor economic cultures, the recreational travel culture and many others. With pricing increasing as much as 10% in a single day, governments around the world are looking for ways to stabilize the daily fluctuation.In Western Australia FuelWatch is being credited by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission with keeping fuel prices approximately two cents cheaper per liter than the rest of Australia. The program requires gasoline (petrol) stations to post their price for the following day by 2:00 pm the prior day. By 3:00 pm prices are published on the Internet and available on a toll-free number or over text messaging. Motorists are then able to locate the station with the lowest pump (bowser) prices for the next day.
Labels: Economic, News, Recreational
¶ 4/20/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Wal-Mart connects to Organic culture
Wal-Mart is making a commitment to the earth-friendly organic culture with a new clothing line. Made from transitional cotton, Wal-Mart’s newest t-shirts fit into the buying pattern of those interested in a greener lifestyle.
The organic culture is really a subculture represented predominantly in Generation Y and the Millennial generation, the health-conscious, and outdoor recreational cultures.
Wal-Mart says their move will make it easier for their customers to have “eco-essentials” at lower prices.
The t-shirts, carried under the “Faded Glory” label, will be more basic than the fashion apparel chains, leaving plenty of room for retailers tailoring to the younger generations.
Wal-Mart is making a commitment to the earth-friendly organic culture with a new clothing line. Made from transitional cotton, Wal-Mart’s newest t-shirts fit into the buying pattern of those interested in a greener lifestyle.The organic culture is really a subculture represented predominantly in Generation Y and the Millennial generation, the health-conscious, and outdoor recreational cultures.
Wal-Mart says their move will make it easier for their customers to have “eco-essentials” at lower prices.
The t-shirts, carried under the “Faded Glory” label, will be more basic than the fashion apparel chains, leaving plenty of room for retailers tailoring to the younger generations.
Labels: Gen-Y, Millennial, News
¶ 4/19/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Friday, April 18, 2008
The smart generation
The technology focus of the Millennial Generation continues to have its rewards in the educational arena.
On April 4th the posting was about a 5th grade student that had found a scientific reference error at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington. The sign had been in place for more than two decades with the term in error in prominent boldface print.
Now a story is coming out of Berlin about a 13-year-old (a.k.a. 8th grader) that has corrected the formula for predicting when an asteroid could collide with the Earth.
The youngster noticed the “boffins” in the equation had been miscalculated. Apparently this has something to do with the likelihood of the asteroid first hitting a satellite before entering the earth’s atmosphere.
The findings were discovered while preparing a project for a regional science competition.
The technology focus of the Millennial Generation continues to have its rewards in the educational arena.On April 4th the posting was about a 5th grade student that had found a scientific reference error at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington. The sign had been in place for more than two decades with the term in error in prominent boldface print.
Now a story is coming out of Berlin about a 13-year-old (a.k.a. 8th grader) that has corrected the formula for predicting when an asteroid could collide with the Earth.
The youngster noticed the “boffins” in the equation had been miscalculated. Apparently this has something to do with the likelihood of the asteroid first hitting a satellite before entering the earth’s atmosphere.
The findings were discovered while preparing a project for a regional science competition.
Labels: Millennial, News, Techno
¶ 4/18/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Encourage someone to go on diet – get fined
By Guillermo
Okay, we understand the intent – but how will this one be enforced? In France lawmakers have taken the initial stages to pass a bill making it illegal to promote extreme skinniness. Aimed at the fashion industry, the bill seeks to curb the growing number of anorexia nervosa cases in the French healthcare system.
So the land of rich sauces and gooey crepes will now require judges to make personal calls on whether or not a person is too skinny. And if a person is deemed to be too stick-like the judge will have to decide if someone was overly encouraging in the lack of weight.
Okay, we understand the intent – but how will this one be enforced? In France lawmakers have taken the initial stages to pass a bill making it illegal to promote extreme skinniness. Aimed at the fashion industry, the bill seeks to curb the growing number of anorexia nervosa cases in the French healthcare system.So the land of rich sauces and gooey crepes will now require judges to make personal calls on whether or not a person is too skinny. And if a person is deemed to be too stick-like the judge will have to decide if someone was overly encouraging in the lack of weight.
Labels: Healthcare, News, Regional
¶ 4/17/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Aloha Nona Beamer
Nona Beamer, one of the best experts of the Hawaiian culture, died in her sleep at her Maui home last week. During her 84 years she was a songwriter, author, teacher, and hula instructor. Along with her son, Keola, she founded the Aloha Music Camp which has helped the Hawaiian music culture to spread to new generations of aficionados.
Nona was short for Winona, but it was her middle name that provided the most difficulty for those not familiar with the Hawaiian language – Kapuailohiamanonokalani.
Any region is fortunate to have a cultural expert, but Hawaii was especially fortunate to have one of Nona’s caliber.
Resources:
Her book: Na Mele Hula: A Collection of Hula Chants (Na Mele Hula)
Her music: Na Mele Ho'oheno ¶ 4/16/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Nona Beamer, one of the best experts of the Hawaiian culture, died in her sleep at her Maui home last week. During her 84 years she was a songwriter, author, teacher, and hula instructor. Along with her son, Keola, she founded the Aloha Music Camp which has helped the Hawaiian music culture to spread to new generations of aficionados.Nona was short for Winona, but it was her middle name that provided the most difficulty for those not familiar with the Hawaiian language – Kapuailohiamanonokalani.
Any region is fortunate to have a cultural expert, but Hawaii was especially fortunate to have one of Nona’s caliber.
Resources:
Her book: Na Mele Hula: A Collection of Hula Chants (Na Mele Hula)
Her music: Na Mele Ho'oheno ¶ 4/16/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Muslim Santa teaches Islamic culture
Abu al-Eid is called the Santa Claus for the Muslim world. Created in 2007 by Amal Aysa, a fashion designer specializing in traditional Arab fashion, the character initially called on Jordanian orphanages.
Aysa’s goal was to "spread joy in the hearts of children, whether they're orphans, poor or disadvantaged." Abu al-Eid does this "by giving the children presents and playing with them on the one hand and on the other he also represents Arab Muslim character, similar to Santa Claus”. Santa Claus is considered one of the symbols of Christmas, a Christian holiday.
Her intent is to give the traditional Santa Claus a more Arab appearance to teach others about the Arab culture. She wants to invite Arabs and of Muslims “to safeguard their practices and traditions and to be proud of their Arab heritage and the historical personalities of Islam.” ¶ 4/15/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Abu al-Eid is called the Santa Claus for the Muslim world. Created in 2007 by Amal Aysa, a fashion designer specializing in traditional Arab fashion, the character initially called on Jordanian orphanages.Aysa’s goal was to "spread joy in the hearts of children, whether they're orphans, poor or disadvantaged." Abu al-Eid does this "by giving the children presents and playing with them on the one hand and on the other he also represents Arab Muslim character, similar to Santa Claus”. Santa Claus is considered one of the symbols of Christmas, a Christian holiday.
Her intent is to give the traditional Santa Claus a more Arab appearance to teach others about the Arab culture. She wants to invite Arabs and of Muslims “to safeguard their practices and traditions and to be proud of their Arab heritage and the historical personalities of Islam.” ¶ 4/15/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Monday, April 14, 2008
Saudi Arabia offers cultural training for migrant workers
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia challenging organizations, companies, and nations to provide migrant workers with education about Saudi work laws. Although training on cultural customs and/or history is often provided the training does not extend into labor laws.
Ahmed Abdulraham Al Mansour, Saudi Deputy Minister for Labour, issued the challenge to provide extended training at the Saudi-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission, held during the first week of April, 2008.
Ahmed said workers need to know Saudi culture, social norms and values, and labor laws. “Lack of knowledge about the rules and regulation creates problems”, he said, noting the problems cause embarrassment for Saudi Arabia and the nation sending the workers.
Agencies recruiting workers to Saudi Arabia have allegedly cheated workers from Bangladesh that did not understand worker requirements and regulations. He offered his government’s resources to assist in the worker training program, providing a model that all nations importing skilled workers could follow.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia challenging organizations, companies, and nations to provide migrant workers with education about Saudi work laws. Although training on cultural customs and/or history is often provided the training does not extend into labor laws.Ahmed Abdulraham Al Mansour, Saudi Deputy Minister for Labour, issued the challenge to provide extended training at the Saudi-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission, held during the first week of April, 2008.
Ahmed said workers need to know Saudi culture, social norms and values, and labor laws. “Lack of knowledge about the rules and regulation creates problems”, he said, noting the problems cause embarrassment for Saudi Arabia and the nation sending the workers.
Agencies recruiting workers to Saudi Arabia have allegedly cheated workers from Bangladesh that did not understand worker requirements and regulations. He offered his government’s resources to assist in the worker training program, providing a model that all nations importing skilled workers could follow.
Labels: Business, Culture_Clash, Regional
¶ 4/14/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Knowing cultures saves embarrassment
Several years ago I was conducting a business seminar in a historic “meeting house” about 5 miles from Plymouth Rock. It was a charming facility, kept true its origins in the 1600s. Wide wooden floorboards held in place by wooden pegs and a rustic aroma were a part of its charm.
During the first break, a man who had arrived late rushed up to me and asked, “Where is the basement?”
“When this meeting house was constructed people never thought to put in basements,” I replied trying to be an authoritative historian.
Gazing out the window near the end of the break I saw the man rushing back on one of the secluded paths from the river.
“Did you enjoy the walk?” I asked.
“Walk, I had to find a place to go to the bathroom!” was his angry reply.
This is how I learned Bostonians call public rest rooms “basements”. ¶ 4/12/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Several years ago I was conducting a business seminar in a historic “meeting house” about 5 miles from Plymouth Rock. It was a charming facility, kept true its origins in the 1600s. Wide wooden floorboards held in place by wooden pegs and a rustic aroma were a part of its charm.During the first break, a man who had arrived late rushed up to me and asked, “Where is the basement?”
“When this meeting house was constructed people never thought to put in basements,” I replied trying to be an authoritative historian.
Gazing out the window near the end of the break I saw the man rushing back on one of the secluded paths from the river.
“Did you enjoy the walk?” I asked.
“Walk, I had to find a place to go to the bathroom!” was his angry reply.
This is how I learned Bostonians call public rest rooms “basements”. ¶ 4/12/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Friday, April 11, 2008
University likely to lead to marriage for women
Going to university is likely to lead to marriage according to a study from Australia’s Monash University.
Contradicting the myth that highly educated women are more financially independent, the study found that 61% of degreed women between 30 and 34 were married compared to 53% of those without college or university experience.
This marks a change from the same study performed a decade earlier than found no difference in marriage rates between the two groups.
The study, as reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), made no mention that institutes of higher learning also facilitate a great environment for meeting life partners.
Going to university is likely to lead to marriage according to a study from Australia’s Monash University.Contradicting the myth that highly educated women are more financially independent, the study found that 61% of degreed women between 30 and 34 were married compared to 53% of those without college or university experience.
This marks a change from the same study performed a decade earlier than found no difference in marriage rates between the two groups.
The study, as reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), made no mention that institutes of higher learning also facilitate a great environment for meeting life partners.
Labels: Academic, Marital, Survey
¶ 4/11/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Bedroom TV has effect on children
A study from the University of Minnesota found that 62% of the Millennial Generation has a television in their bedroom.
The survey found the net effect has been harmful as children with a bedroom television spend less time reading or doing homework. In fact, these adolescents spend about double the time watching tv than those without a set in their bedroom.
Surprisingly, the study found no connection between the television and obesity even though studies of elementary and pre-school children have made such a link.
A study from the University of Minnesota found that 62% of the Millennial Generation has a television in their bedroom.The survey found the net effect has been harmful as children with a bedroom television spend less time reading or doing homework. In fact, these adolescents spend about double the time watching tv than those without a set in their bedroom.
Surprisingly, the study found no connection between the television and obesity even though studies of elementary and pre-school children have made such a link.
Labels: Millennial, Survey
¶ 4/10/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Teacher’s unusual defense about seductive pictures
By Guillermo
Generation Y and the Millennials are the initial residents of cyberspace. Their comfort with the internet has provided many assets to generational members including creativity and quick thinking. However this world of technology has been less embraced or understood by elder generations.
In an unusual story from Sweden we see how one teacher’s understanding of the Internet has saved her job.
A sex scandal at a school in Kungsbacka, Sweden, revolved around a student’s accusation the teacher tried to seduce him by sending provocative pictures. The teacher stuck an unusual defense: she stated she did not send him the pictures as they were readily available over the Internet!
Generation Y and the Millennials are the initial residents of cyberspace. Their comfort with the internet has provided many assets to generational members including creativity and quick thinking. However this world of technology has been less embraced or understood by elder generations.In an unusual story from Sweden we see how one teacher’s understanding of the Internet has saved her job.
A sex scandal at a school in Kungsbacka, Sweden, revolved around a student’s accusation the teacher tried to seduce him by sending provocative pictures. The teacher stuck an unusual defense: she stated she did not send him the pictures as they were readily available over the Internet!
Labels: Academic, Generation, News, Techno
¶ 4/09/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
The Simpsons not child-friendly, but Baywatch is?
By Guillermo
Just when I return from vacation I see an incredible story that reminds me of the difference in global cultures.
In Venezuela “The Simpsons” was pulled off the air following a decision by the National Telecommunications Commission that the series was inappropriate for children.
The show, which was getting Channel 11’s highest ratings ever in the time slot (11:00 am), was quickly replaced by a more child-suitable show – "Baywatch-Hawaii".
The governmental regulatory agency said showing the cartoon series at that hour could violate national regulations prohibiting "messages that go against the whole education of boys, girls and adolescents."
Just when I return from vacation I see an incredible story that reminds me of the difference in global cultures.In Venezuela “The Simpsons” was pulled off the air following a decision by the National Telecommunications Commission that the series was inappropriate for children.
The show, which was getting Channel 11’s highest ratings ever in the time slot (11:00 am), was quickly replaced by a more child-suitable show – "Baywatch-Hawaii".
The governmental regulatory agency said showing the cartoon series at that hour could violate national regulations prohibiting "messages that go against the whole education of boys, girls and adolescents."
Certainly school has changed over the past hundred years.
This leaves one to wonder about the impact of buxom bikini-clad babes and shirtless stud-muffins on Venezuelan boys and girls.
¶ 4/08/2008 0 Comments
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This leaves one to wonder about the impact of buxom bikini-clad babes and shirtless stud-muffins on Venezuelan boys and girls.
India to increase investment in Africa
India has announced plans for substantial investment in Africa in an attempt to become more prominent on the continent. India is also doubling its credit lines to African national and regional organizations according a story from the Associated Press.
China already has a major investment level in Africa and is growing their trade with the region by double digit annual increments.
Most of the world sees Africa as the next “China”. In other words, they see the continent as the growth vehicle for manufacturing into the middle of the century.
North and South America lag behind in recognizing the potential of Africa’s growth and developing a strategy for growth in the region.
India has announced plans for substantial investment in Africa in an attempt to become more prominent on the continent. India is also doubling its credit lines to African national and regional organizations according a story from the Associated Press.China already has a major investment level in Africa and is growing their trade with the region by double digit annual increments.
Most of the world sees Africa as the next “China”. In other words, they see the continent as the growth vehicle for manufacturing into the middle of the century.
North and South America lag behind in recognizing the potential of Africa’s growth and developing a strategy for growth in the region.
Labels: Business, News, Regional
¶ 4/08/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Monday, April 7, 2008
Why to grow globally
Investment analysts are increasingly aware of social investment issues, says Alan Harper, VodafoneGroup Strategy Director. They are also very conscious of 'growth', which is beginning to come from new developing markets.
¶ 4/07/2008 0 Comments
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Saturday, April 5, 2008
How spin works: Nike settles strike
Spin doctors can use almost any statistic to paint a picture and public impression. Take for example the settlement of a two-day strike at the Nike factory in Ching Luh, Vietnam.
Spin doctors can use almost any statistic to paint a picture and public impression. Take for example the settlement of a two-day strike at the Nike factory in Ching Luh, Vietnam.- Pro-Nike Spin: the 10% raise is a large windfall for the workers given that globally raises are typically a third of that.
- Anti-Nike Spin: the raise equates a total pay of only $65US per month.
- More Anti-Nike spin: the 10% is minimal against the 18% inflation rate.
- More Pro-Nike spin: the factory workers are earning almost 12,000,000VND, double the average annual wages of the nation.
As you read each of these statements, did you form a mental picture? When it comes to cultures, statistics are used the same way.
Life Lesson: Get all the facts before locking in on your opinion.
Labels: News, Regional, Survey
¶ 4/05/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Friday, April 4, 2008
The Dreamer 40 years later
It was forty years ago today that the life of Martin Luther King, Junior, was gunned down at the Lorraine Hotel in Memphis. James Earl Ray tried to silence this powerful leader, but failed in his attempt. Yes, he stilled the heart that inspired so many to understand the future was brighter than the past. However King's words are immortal.
Most immortal of all words are those King used on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC. Although people discuss the words and phrases in this speech, there is much more to it that makes it one of the best, if not the best, speech ever given. Watch the video and notice something you do not see in today’s leaders. Although he starts with notes, when he progresses he stops referring to the notes or the use of a teleprompter. It is made from his mind and heart – a feat that shows how deeply he believed in the vision he was sharing with those that had gathered.
MBC Global takes King’s word to heart. Our cultural bridges are based on the cultural dominions that make up the content of our character. When you look at the bridges you will notice that virtually everyone has filled each aspect of character differently. Together, these aspects blend to make the content of character so eloquently identified by King.
Most immortal of all words are those King used on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC. Although people discuss the words and phrases in this speech, there is much more to it that makes it one of the best, if not the best, speech ever given. Watch the video and notice something you do not see in today’s leaders. Although he starts with notes, when he progresses he stops referring to the notes or the use of a teleprompter. It is made from his mind and heart – a feat that shows how deeply he believed in the vision he was sharing with those that had gathered.
MBC Global takes King’s word to heart. Our cultural bridges are based on the cultural dominions that make up the content of our character. When you look at the bridges you will notice that virtually everyone has filled each aspect of character differently. Together, these aspects blend to make the content of character so eloquently identified by King.
Labels: Ethnicity, News, Video
¶ 4/04/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Is the Smithsonian smarter than a 5th grader?
Evidently not! A fifth grade student from Alamo Elementary School in Allegan, Michigan, noticed a sign at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington had a major error.
The sign, placed on a museum exhibit 26 years ago, used bold lettering to declare the Precambrian as an era. The boy knew from his science class that this was wrong, so turned in a suggestion card at the information desk.
He received a letter from the museum saying, "The Precambrian is a dimensionless unit of time, which embraces all the time between the origin of Earth and the beginning of the Cambrian Period of geologic time."
The Smithsonian has painted over the world “era”.
Evidently not! A fifth grade student from Alamo Elementary School in Allegan, Michigan, noticed a sign at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington had a major error.The sign, placed on a museum exhibit 26 years ago, used bold lettering to declare the Precambrian as an era. The boy knew from his science class that this was wrong, so turned in a suggestion card at the information desk.
He received a letter from the museum saying, "The Precambrian is a dimensionless unit of time, which embraces all the time between the origin of Earth and the beginning of the Cambrian Period of geologic time."
The Smithsonian has painted over the world “era”.
Labels: Academic, Millennial
¶ 4/04/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Organic Farmers Behind Trend
The healthcare cultures culinary wing is growing faster than organic farmers can expand production.
According to figures released by Statistics Canada and a study from the Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada, demand is far outpacing the transition of land to certifiable organic requirements.
Organic is quickly reaching mainstream as the appetites of the globe’s population embrace the healthier lifestyle. As this trend continues, the laws of economics is making organic more in line with the costs of non-organic products, which further increases the demand for organic.
If Canada is representative of the world-wide trend in farming conversion, organic products will continue to grow. For every certified organic farm in Canada, there are three reporting they have moved to organic but have yet to be certified. ¶ 4/03/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
The healthcare cultures culinary wing is growing faster than organic farmers can expand production.According to figures released by Statistics Canada and a study from the Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada, demand is far outpacing the transition of land to certifiable organic requirements.
Organic is quickly reaching mainstream as the appetites of the globe’s population embrace the healthier lifestyle. As this trend continues, the laws of economics is making organic more in line with the costs of non-organic products, which further increases the demand for organic.
If Canada is representative of the world-wide trend in farming conversion, organic products will continue to grow. For every certified organic farm in Canada, there are three reporting they have moved to organic but have yet to be certified. ¶ 4/03/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Most minority children see themselves as leaders
A survey released this week by the Girl Scouts of the USA found that 75% of minority children see themselves as leaders while only 50% of white children view themselves as leaders. The survey defined minority as African-American or Hispanic.
According to the Washington Post, experts feel the difference is due to the leadership roles children take when both parents have full-time jobs. Children in two-income homes are given more responsibility and thereby see themselves as demonstrating the leaders qualities they value, such as teamwork, values, and improving the world.
A survey released this week by the Girl Scouts of the USA found that 75% of minority children see themselves as leaders while only 50% of white children view themselves as leaders. The survey defined minority as African-American or Hispanic.According to the Washington Post, experts feel the difference is due to the leadership roles children take when both parents have full-time jobs. Children in two-income homes are given more responsibility and thereby see themselves as demonstrating the leaders qualities they value, such as teamwork, values, and improving the world.
Labels: African-American, Hispanic, Millennial, Survey
¶ 4/02/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Transition from salesperson to VP
Being the top salesperson does not necessarily equate to being a great Vice President of Sales. Leading a large sales organization is a completely different skill set and being able to close sales.
This was a painful lesson when a leading salesperson at a home-building company accepted an offer to become vice president of sales.
To continue reading this case study, click here.
Being the top salesperson does not necessarily equate to being a great Vice President of Sales. Leading a large sales organization is a completely different skill set and being able to close sales.This was a painful lesson when a leading salesperson at a home-building company accepted an offer to become vice president of sales.
To continue reading this case study, click here.
Labels: Success_Story
¶ 4/02/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
The revival of Opera?
The world of opera has experienced the loss of some of its greatest performers over past years, causing many to wonder if the art itself would suffer irreparable harm.
Before you fall into the trap of agreeing the curtain is falling, consider Paul Potts, a mobile telephone salesperson from Wales.
He stunned the audience of the television program Britain’s Got Talent, as seen in the video below. Watch the video twice. First listen to the wonderful singing – even if you have never heard opera before the beautiful tones will bring a tear of happiness to your eye.
Second watch to see the audience reaction. Leading the standing ovation was not the traditionalist generation, but hip-hop and pop loving Generation X. If legend is correct, they should have walked out when he started singing or stick iPod headphones in their ears to hear the latest Green Day release. Instead they too were captivated by Potts’ stirring performance.
Before you fall into the trap of agreeing the curtain is falling, consider Paul Potts, a mobile telephone salesperson from Wales.
He stunned the audience of the television program Britain’s Got Talent, as seen in the video below. Watch the video twice. First listen to the wonderful singing – even if you have never heard opera before the beautiful tones will bring a tear of happiness to your eye.
Second watch to see the audience reaction. Leading the standing ovation was not the traditionalist generation, but hip-hop and pop loving Generation X. If legend is correct, they should have walked out when he started singing or stick iPod headphones in their ears to hear the latest Green Day release. Instead they too were captivated by Potts’ stirring performance.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLF9iEXnBRo
To further prove the point, listen to this virtual duet featuring Paul Potts and Pavarotti.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBbf3cy_wYM
As long as people like Potts are around, opera will survive. He brings a highly sophisticated art to the appreciation requirements of multiple cultures.
To further prove the point, listen to this virtual duet featuring Paul Potts and Pavarotti.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBbf3cy_wYM
As long as people like Potts are around, opera will survive. He brings a highly sophisticated art to the appreciation requirements of multiple cultures.
Labels: Economic, Recreational, Video
¶ 4/01/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
