Tapestry™
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Blagojevich: Cultural Genius?
Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich has shown he is a genius when it come to using cultures to for success. The governor is facing a potential impeachment vote for attempting to sell Barack Obama’s senate seat to the highest bidder. The Illinois legislature is embarking on this dethroning move to prevent a special election after Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid refused to seat any appointment by the governor. (The United States Constitution allows the legislative branch to refuse to seat congresspersons).
As a posturing move, critics say Blagojevich is irrelevant as governor due to the controversy surrounding him.
Now Blagojevich has made a brilliant move.
In appointing former state attorney general Roland Burris the embattled governor has put Reid and others on Capital Hill in the position of standing in the way of seating who would be the only black in the Senate.
In announcing the appointment, members of the black caucus, lead by Representative Burns, immediately changed their earlier stated position of opposing any Blagojevich appointee. Burns, on record saying no Blagojevich appointee should be seated for any reason said the Senate should not hold it against Burris because he had done nothing wrong.
So, understanding culture, Blagojevich has guaranteed one of two things will happen:
Reid will seat Burris, proving Blagojevich is still relevant (after all, he was able to navigate through Reid’s gauntlet).
Attention will be focused on Burris and Reid, removing the governor from the front page.
Cultural knowledge may save Blagojevich. It could also save you business or career if you take the time to study the dynamics of cultures.
Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich has shown he is a genius when it come to using cultures to for success. The governor is facing a potential impeachment vote for attempting to sell Barack Obama’s senate seat to the highest bidder. The Illinois legislature is embarking on this dethroning move to prevent a special election after Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid refused to seat any appointment by the governor. (The United States Constitution allows the legislative branch to refuse to seat congresspersons).As a posturing move, critics say Blagojevich is irrelevant as governor due to the controversy surrounding him.
Now Blagojevich has made a brilliant move.
In appointing former state attorney general Roland Burris the embattled governor has put Reid and others on Capital Hill in the position of standing in the way of seating who would be the only black in the Senate.
In announcing the appointment, members of the black caucus, lead by Representative Burns, immediately changed their earlier stated position of opposing any Blagojevich appointee. Burns, on record saying no Blagojevich appointee should be seated for any reason said the Senate should not hold it against Burris because he had done nothing wrong.
So, understanding culture, Blagojevich has guaranteed one of two things will happen:
Reid will seat Burris, proving Blagojevich is still relevant (after all, he was able to navigate through Reid’s gauntlet).
Attention will be focused on Burris and Reid, removing the governor from the front page.
Cultural knowledge may save Blagojevich. It could also save you business or career if you take the time to study the dynamics of cultures.
Labels: Ethnicity, News, Politics
¶ 1/04/2009 0 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Congress’s failed traditional leadership culture
The United States Congress is providing the strongest example we have seen in recent years of the failed leadership style of the 1900s. You know the style: those in power more concerned about their own future than that of their company or organization and decisions are made based on the impact to their power silo.
Here are the facts you already know: over $700 billion in loan guarantees given without testimony, restrictions, questioning, or business plan presentations to various bank and financial institutions. The reason: the credit market had dried up for housing. Along came auto companies suffering from the same dehydrated credit base looking for 3 percent of what the banks were given without even having to ask. The Big 3 executives and leader of the UAW were humiliated by the congressional inquisition they faced.
Here is what you may not know:
The United States Congress is providing the strongest example we have seen in recent years of the failed leadership style of the 1900s. You know the style: those in power more concerned about their own future than that of their company or organization and decisions are made based on the impact to their power silo.Here are the facts you already know: over $700 billion in loan guarantees given without testimony, restrictions, questioning, or business plan presentations to various bank and financial institutions. The reason: the credit market had dried up for housing. Along came auto companies suffering from the same dehydrated credit base looking for 3 percent of what the banks were given without even having to ask. The Big 3 executives and leader of the UAW were humiliated by the congressional inquisition they faced.
Here is what you may not know:
- Sources report Alabama’s Senator Shelby, who helped make an issue over the auto makers use of private jets for their first trip to Washington, has been spotted taking Alabama auto maker Toyota’s corporate jet on trips.
- Tokyo and Berlin have already given government cash to Toyota, Volkswagen, and Audi so they can compete while auto sales are slumped. Other countries are looking at helping their own auto industry but not the foreign auto companies making vehicles in their country.
- Toyota sales were down more than General Motor’s sales in the recent reporting period. Yet no congressman mentioned that, some saying America’s auto makers do not make what customer’s want. Incidentally, the American made Chevy Malibu was up 51 percent while sales had dropped more than a third at Toyota.
- The UAW was criticized for asking and auto makers criticized for granting “overly generous” benefit and pay packages. Actually the UAW has been a partner in reducing benefits while the same congressional leaders failed to mention their benefit package, and that of most federal employees, exceeds what is given to the hard working auto employees – and congress has not asked government employees for give-backs.
- Polls show people will not buy a car from a bankrupt company meaning it will be impossible to restructure under Chapter 11.
- What bank would grant DIP loans to any of the Big 3 to get them through the restructuring period?
- America’s automotive factories are used for military purposes during war. Would Toyota have allowed one of their factories in Alabama to make missiles during World War II?
- Congress asked the automotives leaders to take a single dollar in pay because they were losing money. Congress has run up a trillion dollar deficit (it is congress, not the White House that writes checks for the government) yet they have not even rejected their raise let alone dropping to a buck.
The truth is that members of congress are biased to their home constituencies (the folks they need when reelection time comes). Rather than look out for the good of the country these civil servants are looking out for their individual desires to return for another term.
This same thinking dooms companies and organizations. When leaders are overly interested in personal goals they overlook long-term needs.
America cannot succeed unless politicians are able to exercise contemporary management – that is, management built on the greater goals.
¶ 12/16/2008 0 Comments
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This same thinking dooms companies and organizations. When leaders are overly interested in personal goals they overlook long-term needs.
America cannot succeed unless politicians are able to exercise contemporary management – that is, management built on the greater goals.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Vietnam drivers must pass eye and chest test
The Health Ministry in Vietnam has recommended that in addition to the eye examine, women must also pass a chest test before given a driver’s license. According to the ministry it is dangerous for a women whose chest is less than 28 inches is dangerous when driving a motorcycle.
Now I do not like choosing sides in a national debate, but it seems like larger breasts would be more dangerous. Not only could they be an obstacle in a sharp turn, they could cause accidents as other drivers were distracted.
Think of the humiliation for the repeat offender. How do you explain to your cellmates that you are serving time for being less endowed?
The Health Ministry in Vietnam has recommended that in addition to the eye examine, women must also pass a chest test before given a driver’s license. According to the ministry it is dangerous for a women whose chest is less than 28 inches is dangerous when driving a motorcycle.Now I do not like choosing sides in a national debate, but it seems like larger breasts would be more dangerous. Not only could they be an obstacle in a sharp turn, they could cause accidents as other drivers were distracted.
Think of the humiliation for the repeat offender. How do you explain to your cellmates that you are serving time for being less endowed?
Labels: Ethnicity, gender, News, Regional
¶ 11/07/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Deadly impact of Daylight Savings Time
I have often wondered why much of the world participates in the needless practice of Daylight Savings Time. When I think of the expense and energy involved in turning our clocks back and forth each year I ponder if their may be some more worthwhile exercise. How silly it seems to me that we must adjust our clocks for nothing more than a mind game allowing us think it is later than it really is.
Yet most people on both sides of the equator follow this ritual.
Enter a study from Sweden revealing that the time change is costing lives! It seems that the hour of lost sleep when the clocks are pushed forward generates a 6 percent increase the following Monday and Wednesday, and a whopping 10 percent increase the following Tuesday. There is no offsetting decrease in heart attacks when the clocks are moved back!
Therefore, MBC Global calls upon people north of the equator to stop this practice. Perhaps a one time half-hour shift could occur. Perhaps the practice could just be abandoned. You have six months to stop this needless human killing.
Meanwhile, to those of our readers south of the equator that are turning their clocks ahead this weekend, we offer our sincere sympathy for those that will not live past Wednesday.
I have often wondered why much of the world participates in the needless practice of Daylight Savings Time. When I think of the expense and energy involved in turning our clocks back and forth each year I ponder if their may be some more worthwhile exercise. How silly it seems to me that we must adjust our clocks for nothing more than a mind game allowing us think it is later than it really is.Yet most people on both sides of the equator follow this ritual.
Enter a study from Sweden revealing that the time change is costing lives! It seems that the hour of lost sleep when the clocks are pushed forward generates a 6 percent increase the following Monday and Wednesday, and a whopping 10 percent increase the following Tuesday. There is no offsetting decrease in heart attacks when the clocks are moved back!
Therefore, MBC Global calls upon people north of the equator to stop this practice. Perhaps a one time half-hour shift could occur. Perhaps the practice could just be abandoned. You have six months to stop this needless human killing.
Meanwhile, to those of our readers south of the equator that are turning their clocks ahead this weekend, we offer our sincere sympathy for those that will not live past Wednesday.
Labels: Globalization, Health, News
¶ 11/01/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
How cultures die
Do not feel bad if you did not know Danny Lopez – but learn from his death.
¶ 10/29/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Do not feel bad if you did not know Danny Lopez – but learn from his death. Danny was dedicated to educating others about the Tohono O’odham Nation, a tribe of Native Americans primarily living in Arizona.
Through poetry and storytelling, Danny delighted others with the nuances and beauty of the language and practices of the Tohono O’odham people.
When cultural propagators such as Danny pass on the culture risks dying unless someone else, expert (or near expert but willing to learn) fills their moccasins the culture may also pass on.
¶ 10/29/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Mob culture in Vegas? Check out this museum
When there is a cultural belief you just can’t seem to erase, perhaps you should hit it head-on. Many have long believed the casinos of Las Vegas have strong mafia ties. However the city is taking this cultural conception to the limit when it opens The Las Vegas of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement.
The museum will open in 2010 to showcase the colorful history of Nevada.
When there is a cultural belief you just can’t seem to erase, perhaps you should hit it head-on. Many have long believed the casinos of Las Vegas have strong mafia ties. However the city is taking this cultural conception to the limit when it opens The Las Vegas of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement.The museum will open in 2010 to showcase the colorful history of Nevada.
Labels: Culture_Clash, News
¶ 10/04/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Victory for Dog Culture in California?
Thanks to the veto pen of California, USA, governor Arnold Schwarzenegger dogs it will continue to be legal to hold a dog in a driver’s lap on the west coast state’s highways. Although unbuckled children present a flying and injury hazard, dogs are apparently immune for either vulnerability in the event of a sudden stop or collision. Dogs also must pose a lesser distraction for drivers than speaking on a cell phone, which has been made illegal in many communities.
Baby Boomers often said, “You cannot legislate morality”. Hopefully drivers will be able to make an educated decision to ensure the safety of the animals, themselves, and other drivers and pedestrians. ¶ 9/30/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Thanks to the veto pen of California, USA, governor Arnold Schwarzenegger dogs it will continue to be legal to hold a dog in a driver’s lap on the west coast state’s highways. Although unbuckled children present a flying and injury hazard, dogs are apparently immune for either vulnerability in the event of a sudden stop or collision. Dogs also must pose a lesser distraction for drivers than speaking on a cell phone, which has been made illegal in many communities.Baby Boomers often said, “You cannot legislate morality”. Hopefully drivers will be able to make an educated decision to ensure the safety of the animals, themselves, and other drivers and pedestrians. ¶ 9/30/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Asians drop Finland for Sony
For the first time an Asian manufacturer has taken over as the top brand among Asians. Sony has replaced Finland-based Nokia as their most popular brand name according to two recent surveys. In third place is Japan’s Canon and forth place is held by the USA’s Nike.
It is easy to see the importance of technology to Asians as three of the four top brands being consumer electronics.
¶ 9/16/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
For the first time an Asian manufacturer has taken over as the top brand among Asians. Sony has replaced Finland-based Nokia as their most popular brand name according to two recent surveys. In third place is Japan’s Canon and forth place is held by the USA’s Nike.It is easy to see the importance of technology to Asians as three of the four top brands being consumer electronics.
¶ 9/16/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Urban cultures battle gulls
Say it isn’t true Jonathon – city folk don’t like you. Edinburgh, Scotland has now declared war on gulls (contrary to common belief there is no such thing as a “seagull”). Edinburgh is not alone. Across the globe city dwellers are fed up with the bird population. Large birds, such as gulls and pigeons, cause particular ire.
The birds create a problem on several fronts. Most importantly is spreading disease and creating a clean-up nightmare. However in Edinburgh citizens report birds are increasingly aggressive -- even dive bombing a paperboy.
The city is launching an effort to remove nests and destroy nesting places in hopes of driving the birds into the suburbs.
Say it isn’t true Jonathon – city folk don’t like you. Edinburgh, Scotland has now declared war on gulls (contrary to common belief there is no such thing as a “seagull”). Edinburgh is not alone. Across the globe city dwellers are fed up with the bird population. Large birds, such as gulls and pigeons, cause particular ire.The birds create a problem on several fronts. Most importantly is spreading disease and creating a clean-up nightmare. However in Edinburgh citizens report birds are increasingly aggressive -- even dive bombing a paperboy.
The city is launching an effort to remove nests and destroy nesting places in hopes of driving the birds into the suburbs.
Labels: Culture_Clash, News
¶ 9/03/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Evacuating for the hurricane
As a Floridian I am familiar with the special culture shared among those who have lived through one of nature’s fiercest events – the hurricane (typhoon).
Today there are mandatory orders to evacuate New Orleans on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico and mouth of the Mississippi River. Nobody should be left behind according to officials who are stating that the City of New Orleans will not provide any support for those ignoring the order to vacate.
In spite of the obvious need to leave seen by those never experiencing a hurricane’s direct hit, scores of people will stay behind.
Officials fail to understand.
The reason is really extremely straightforward. Uncomplex. Simple. Clear-Cut. Uncomplicated.
Officials: People do not leave because if they do you will not let them back!
Whenever there was a evacuation of the beach communities on the Pinellas County peninsula officials would wait until conditions were darn near perfect before the bridges would be reopened to allow evacuees access to their homes. In the meantime they were incarcerated in public shelter where respect for individuals was less than a quad room at a hospital.
All the while people were enduring conditions below those given to prisoners by Supreme Court decree, evacuees had to worry about the vandals roaming the unprotected streets of the evacuated area.
New Orleans has made it clear. Leave the city or you are on your own. Hospitals will have limited services available. Police will be in short supply.
Okay, so some police and hospital workers will be there – then why not me? Why leave and risk not being able to come back for days after the emergency passes? Why suffer the disgrace of community shelters when others are going to be in our neighborhood? If it is okay for them, why not me?
This is the culture of coastal people and is displayed every time a hurricane threatens.
¶ 8/31/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
As a Floridian I am familiar with the special culture shared among those who have lived through one of nature’s fiercest events – the hurricane (typhoon).Today there are mandatory orders to evacuate New Orleans on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico and mouth of the Mississippi River. Nobody should be left behind according to officials who are stating that the City of New Orleans will not provide any support for those ignoring the order to vacate.
In spite of the obvious need to leave seen by those never experiencing a hurricane’s direct hit, scores of people will stay behind.
Officials fail to understand.
The reason is really extremely straightforward. Uncomplex. Simple. Clear-Cut. Uncomplicated.
Officials: People do not leave because if they do you will not let them back!
Whenever there was a evacuation of the beach communities on the Pinellas County peninsula officials would wait until conditions were darn near perfect before the bridges would be reopened to allow evacuees access to their homes. In the meantime they were incarcerated in public shelter where respect for individuals was less than a quad room at a hospital.
All the while people were enduring conditions below those given to prisoners by Supreme Court decree, evacuees had to worry about the vandals roaming the unprotected streets of the evacuated area.
New Orleans has made it clear. Leave the city or you are on your own. Hospitals will have limited services available. Police will be in short supply.
Okay, so some police and hospital workers will be there – then why not me? Why leave and risk not being able to come back for days after the emergency passes? Why suffer the disgrace of community shelters when others are going to be in our neighborhood? If it is okay for them, why not me?
This is the culture of coastal people and is displayed every time a hurricane threatens.
¶ 8/31/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Historical time in US
Multiculturalism is alive and well in the United States, as evidenced by the two major party slates for this year’s presidential election. For the first time, a legally recognized minority will hold a position in the executive branch of the US government. Depending on which party wins Americans will have either their first African-American or woman in the executive branch of their government.
Both tickets also represent diversity in generation two different generations (Democrat: Obama is a Baby Boomer* while Biden is a Builder, Republican: McCain is from the Builder generation while Palin is in Generation X.
This election is already historical in that the tickets have more diversity than any prior election. It will also make history when the votes are counted and a never before represented culture takes its place in the executive branch of government.
*It is important to point out that generational classifications are based on birth years and are not uniformly accepted. Although all show the year Obama was born, 1961, as designating a baby boomer, some show the year as the first year of Generation X.
Multiculturalism is alive and well in the United States, as evidenced by the two major party slates for this year’s presidential election. For the first time, a legally recognized minority will hold a position in the executive branch of the US government. Depending on which party wins Americans will have either their first African-American or woman in the executive branch of their government.Both tickets also represent diversity in generation two different generations (Democrat: Obama is a Baby Boomer* while Biden is a Builder, Republican: McCain is from the Builder generation while Palin is in Generation X.
This election is already historical in that the tickets have more diversity than any prior election. It will also make history when the votes are counted and a never before represented culture takes its place in the executive branch of government.
*It is important to point out that generational classifications are based on birth years and are not uniformly accepted. Although all show the year Obama was born, 1961, as designating a baby boomer, some show the year as the first year of Generation X.
Labels: Baby-Boomer, Gen-X, Globalization, News, Traditionalists
¶ 8/30/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Friday, August 29, 2008
Restaurants permanent loser in recession
When the global economy emerges from the current recession, restaurants will be the biggest losers according to a survey by Precima. The recession, largely driven by rising fuel prices, has changed te eating, driving, and buying habits of consumers.
The survey found:
When the global economy emerges from the current recession, restaurants will be the biggest losers according to a survey by Precima. The recession, largely driven by rising fuel prices, has changed te eating, driving, and buying habits of consumers.The survey found:
- 82 percent will not return to their culture of eating out, instead they’ll stay at home.
- 84 percent will look for specials in store fliers, with prepared foods likely to benefit most.
- 80 percent say coupons will sway their purchase decision.
- 78 percent will combine store trips to conserve fuel.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Olympians use pizza and burgers to slim down
While politicians spend time attacking the fast food business instead of focusing on economic or energy issues, that is, when they are not on vacation, the Chinese boxing team has stunned the world with their dietary admission.
Light flyweight boxing gold medalist Zou Shiming credits a strict diet of pizza and burgers as keeping his weight in line for his division.
While much of the world condemns these foods, one cannot argue with Olympic success.
¶ 8/28/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
While politicians spend time attacking the fast food business instead of focusing on economic or energy issues, that is, when they are not on vacation, the Chinese boxing team has stunned the world with their dietary admission.Light flyweight boxing gold medalist Zou Shiming credits a strict diet of pizza and burgers as keeping his weight in line for his division.
While much of the world condemns these foods, one cannot argue with Olympic success.
¶ 8/28/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Where’s the patriotism in buying gas?
Americans in border towns have found that cheap gas is more alluring than national patriotism. In North America gasoline/petro taxes are used to pay for road creation and maintenance. In Mexico, which drills and refines oil for export, fuel sells for about half of what it costs in the USA. Consequently, many Americans are sneaking across the border to fill their tanks, some even taking canisters to bring back home.
Likewise, Canadians have long found it advantageous to go south of their border to buy petro, which costs about 25 percent less than in the provinces.
Although the Canadians have not purchased sufficient quantities to dry up stations along the US-Canadian border, stations south of the Mexico-US border are experiencing long lines or complete outages.
Meanwhile, what is happening to the roads? ¶ 8/21/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Americans in border towns have found that cheap gas is more alluring than national patriotism. In North America gasoline/petro taxes are used to pay for road creation and maintenance. In Mexico, which drills and refines oil for export, fuel sells for about half of what it costs in the USA. Consequently, many Americans are sneaking across the border to fill their tanks, some even taking canisters to bring back home.Likewise, Canadians have long found it advantageous to go south of their border to buy petro, which costs about 25 percent less than in the provinces.
Although the Canadians have not purchased sufficient quantities to dry up stations along the US-Canadian border, stations south of the Mexico-US border are experiencing long lines or complete outages.
Meanwhile, what is happening to the roads? ¶ 8/21/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Friday, August 15, 2008
So many religious holidays, so little time off
Many companies struggle with the diversity of religions now found through the world. The difficulty revolves around how to properly handle religious observances and holidays.
In the southern US state of Tennessee Tyson Foods has grappled with this issue as it has been working out a new contract with its union.
Originally there was an agreement in place to exchange Labor Day for Eid al-Fitr, the end of the Muslim holy month of fasting.
However amid much public attention, the company changed the agreement. During the first year of the contract Eid al-Fitr will be a paid holiday in addition to Labor Day, a US holiday marking the formation of the first major union formation. Beginning next year Tyson Foods will no longer close for Eid al-Fitr, however all employees will receive one floating holiday to be used for any observance of their choice, pending a supervisor’s approval.
Although this solution seems amiable, critics point out that Christians do not need to use a personal holiday for their major observances because the plant closes. Therefore Christians are getting a benefit from an extra day off to schedule at will for recreation while other religions must use that day if they are to join family for religious observances.
There seems to be no easy answer given the thousands of world religions.
Many companies struggle with the diversity of religions now found through the world. The difficulty revolves around how to properly handle religious observances and holidays.In the southern US state of Tennessee Tyson Foods has grappled with this issue as it has been working out a new contract with its union.
Originally there was an agreement in place to exchange Labor Day for Eid al-Fitr, the end of the Muslim holy month of fasting.
However amid much public attention, the company changed the agreement. During the first year of the contract Eid al-Fitr will be a paid holiday in addition to Labor Day, a US holiday marking the formation of the first major union formation. Beginning next year Tyson Foods will no longer close for Eid al-Fitr, however all employees will receive one floating holiday to be used for any observance of their choice, pending a supervisor’s approval.
Although this solution seems amiable, critics point out that Christians do not need to use a personal holiday for their major observances because the plant closes. Therefore Christians are getting a benefit from an extra day off to schedule at will for recreation while other religions must use that day if they are to join family for religious observances.
There seems to be no easy answer given the thousands of world religions.
Labels: Culture_Clash, News, Religion
¶ 8/15/2008 1 Comments Links to this post
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Palestinian Poet kept culture alive
Mohmoud Darwish, the most famous of the Palestinian poets, died over the weekend in Gaza City. Mahmoud grew up in Palestine and never lost his passion for Palestine, even after decades of exile.
"He felt the pulse of Palestinians in beautiful poetry. He was a mirror of the Palestinian society," said Ali Qleibo, a Palestinian anthropologist and lecturer in cultural studies at Al Quds University in Jerusalem.
Throughout history cultures have been saved from extinction through the poets, artists, and musicians that carry out the culture in their works. Darwish’s works have helped the world remember what life was like in historical Palestine.
“[Darwish] is our heart, and our tongue,” said Issam Makhoul, an Arab lawmaker and veteran member of the Israeli Communist Party.
Mohmoud Darwish, the most famous of the Palestinian poets, died over the weekend in Gaza City. Mahmoud grew up in Palestine and never lost his passion for Palestine, even after decades of exile."He felt the pulse of Palestinians in beautiful poetry. He was a mirror of the Palestinian society," said Ali Qleibo, a Palestinian anthropologist and lecturer in cultural studies at Al Quds University in Jerusalem.
Throughout history cultures have been saved from extinction through the poets, artists, and musicians that carry out the culture in their works. Darwish’s works have helped the world remember what life was like in historical Palestine.
“[Darwish] is our heart, and our tongue,” said Issam Makhoul, an Arab lawmaker and veteran member of the Israeli Communist Party.
Labels: News, Regional, Religion
¶ 8/14/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
USSR Rebirth? Russian culture of aggression
Reports of the death of the aggressive culture of the former Soviet Union may be premature. As Vladimir Putin sat among world leaders watching the opening of the Olympic games, his armed forces were invading the sovereign nation of Georgia.
Russian ground and air forces have moved, according to the United Nations, beyond the provinces of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, a separatist region within Georgia.
Russia is claiming a nobility position saying they are moving into Georgia for humanitarian reason. However the mighty Soviet government has not sought United Nations authority to enter a foreign nation.
Russia has also criticized the United States for entering the dispute by airlifting Georgian forces from Iran (note to America’s critics – Georgia was part of the United Nations multi-nation coalition rebuilding Iraq, in United Nations sanctioned activities there).
Many cultures die hard when the sons and daughter of those made successful by a former culture dream of the visions of greatness handed down by parents and grandparents.
In the case of Russia’s latest moves, it is evident that the Soviet culture remains.
The good news in this is that the western world can once again have a common villain for the James Bond and Mission: Impossible entertainment franchises.
Reports of the death of the aggressive culture of the former Soviet Union may be premature. As Vladimir Putin sat among world leaders watching the opening of the Olympic games, his armed forces were invading the sovereign nation of Georgia.Russian ground and air forces have moved, according to the United Nations, beyond the provinces of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, a separatist region within Georgia.
Russia is claiming a nobility position saying they are moving into Georgia for humanitarian reason. However the mighty Soviet government has not sought United Nations authority to enter a foreign nation.
Russia has also criticized the United States for entering the dispute by airlifting Georgian forces from Iran (note to America’s critics – Georgia was part of the United Nations multi-nation coalition rebuilding Iraq, in United Nations sanctioned activities there).
Many cultures die hard when the sons and daughter of those made successful by a former culture dream of the visions of greatness handed down by parents and grandparents.
In the case of Russia’s latest moves, it is evident that the Soviet culture remains.
The good news in this is that the western world can once again have a common villain for the James Bond and Mission: Impossible entertainment franchises.
Labels: Culture_Clash, News, Regional
¶ 8/12/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Saturday, August 9, 2008
"Eight" babies
In the Chinese culture, eight is the luckiest number. It is one of the reasons this year’s Olympics was given to China to start on the date numerically as 08/08/08.
The impact and fortune of the number eight will be with Hailey Jo Hauer and Jace Rinker all of their lives. You see, not only were they born at 08:08 on 08/08/08, they weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces.
Xander will undoubtedly go into numerology as he is his grandparent’s eighth grandchild and his sister was born on 04/05/06.
Although one could debate the authenticity of the time of birth, the Iowa and Minnesota hospitals where the babies were born could not fudge on the weight.
The impact and fortune of the number eight will be with Hailey Jo Hauer and Jace Rinker all of their lives. You see, not only were they born at 08:08 on 08/08/08, they weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces.
Xander will undoubtedly go into numerology as he is his grandparent’s eighth grandchild and his sister was born on 04/05/06.
Although one could debate the authenticity of the time of birth, the Iowa and Minnesota hospitals where the babies were born could not fudge on the weight.
Labels: News
¶ 8/09/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Starbucks cannot compete in Australia
Starbucks has virtually left the land under saying they cannot compete due to the continent’s sophisticated coffee culture. They are closing all but 23 outlets after admitting defeat in their drive to hydrate thirsty Aussies.
The reason: Australia’s diverse population had already elevated the tastes of java lovers. Espressos and cappuccinos are common place in a land that has been brewing delicious blends since post-World War II migration upped the palates of the average Australian.
The sophistication of the Australian coffee aficionado is so strong they are turned off by one simple piece of the Starbucks formula – having teens prepare the cups. To an Australian it takes experience to be able to get the brew just right.
Starbucks has virtually left the land under saying they cannot compete due to the continent’s sophisticated coffee culture. They are closing all but 23 outlets after admitting defeat in their drive to hydrate thirsty Aussies.The reason: Australia’s diverse population had already elevated the tastes of java lovers. Espressos and cappuccinos are common place in a land that has been brewing delicious blends since post-World War II migration upped the palates of the average Australian.
The sophistication of the Australian coffee aficionado is so strong they are turned off by one simple piece of the Starbucks formula – having teens prepare the cups. To an Australian it takes experience to be able to get the brew just right.
The chain will now be limited to Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne in an attempt to continue to brag about the intercontinental affection for its products.
Labels: Business, Diversity, News
¶ 8/05/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Sunday, July 20, 2008
The "N" Word
Much controversy has been generated this past week throughout North America concerning what has commonly been referred to as “The ‘N’ Word”. A debate ensued with the cast of ABC’s “The View” (see the video below) following a leaked tape of Civil Rights leader Jesse Jackson using the word. Jackson had called for the word to be banned after an incident at the Comedy Factory in Los Angeles where comic Michael Richards had used the word (click here to see the Associated Press article).
As you can see from the debate emotions on this issue are high. People obviously have strong feelings that seem to be well thought out. Yet one must ask if this is a healthy debate.
It is probable nobody has the life experiences to fully understand both sides of the issue. However history tells us that allowing different rules for whites and blacks is divisive. How are arguments justifying use of the word by blacks while banning it from the vocabulary of whites any different from the argument that whites and blacks be assigned seats in different areas of a bus?
Granted, the word is extremely hurtful to people – we do not want to distract from that aspect of the issue. But isn’t defending its use by one class of people only continuing that hurt? Does it not cause us to dwell on the negative? Does it not keep the word in the common vocabulary for future generations?
We have seen what separate rules have gotten us in the past. Separate water fountains, separate schools, separate rest rooms, separate employment and housing opportunities, and more “separates”. Could creating separate vocabularies lead to more “separates”?
This posting is designed to spur dialog. How about joining us with you thoughts?
As you can see from the debate emotions on this issue are high. People obviously have strong feelings that seem to be well thought out. Yet one must ask if this is a healthy debate.
It is probable nobody has the life experiences to fully understand both sides of the issue. However history tells us that allowing different rules for whites and blacks is divisive. How are arguments justifying use of the word by blacks while banning it from the vocabulary of whites any different from the argument that whites and blacks be assigned seats in different areas of a bus?
Granted, the word is extremely hurtful to people – we do not want to distract from that aspect of the issue. But isn’t defending its use by one class of people only continuing that hurt? Does it not cause us to dwell on the negative? Does it not keep the word in the common vocabulary for future generations?
We have seen what separate rules have gotten us in the past. Separate water fountains, separate schools, separate rest rooms, separate employment and housing opportunities, and more “separates”. Could creating separate vocabularies lead to more “separates”?
This posting is designed to spur dialog. How about joining us with you thoughts?
Labels: Culture_Clash, News, Race, Video
¶ 7/20/2008 5 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Shirtless calendar excommunicated
Chad Hardy has been excommunicated from the Church of Jesus Christ, Later Day Saints, also known as the Mormon Church.
Hardy created the “Men on a Mission” calendar featuring a different shirtless Mormon missionary each month.
The website for the calendar has been removed, potentially because the high volume of hits following release of the story.
Hardy claims to have no bitter feelings toward the church but says that because the calendar was strictly men he does not see how it has a negative on the Mormon culture.
Chad Hardy has been excommunicated from the Church of Jesus Christ, Later Day Saints, also known as the Mormon Church.Hardy created the “Men on a Mission” calendar featuring a different shirtless Mormon missionary each month.
The website for the calendar has been removed, potentially because the high volume of hits following release of the story.
Hardy claims to have no bitter feelings toward the church but says that because the calendar was strictly men he does not see how it has a negative on the Mormon culture.
Labels: Culture_Clash, News, Religion
¶ 7/15/2008 1 Comments Links to this post
Monday, July 14, 2008
North Carolinian refuses to lower flag
In direct opposition to the order of the Governor of North Carolina, L. F. Eason III decided to retire rather than lower the U.S. or state flag to half-staff in remembrance of long-time State Senator Jesse Helms.
Governor Easley issued the order, which is traditional and customary following the death of notable public figures. However Eason, an employee of the North Carolina Standards Laboratory, was told to lower the flag he sent memos to his employees forbidding such an action to occur.
Eason’s reason: he feels the senator had a doctrine of “negativity and hatred”.
It sounds like Eason is filled with his own negativity and hatred.
The flag was lowered soon after Eason retired.
Read more details from the Charlotte Observer.
In direct opposition to the order of the Governor of North Carolina, L. F. Eason III decided to retire rather than lower the U.S. or state flag to half-staff in remembrance of long-time State Senator Jesse Helms.Governor Easley issued the order, which is traditional and customary following the death of notable public figures. However Eason, an employee of the North Carolina Standards Laboratory, was told to lower the flag he sent memos to his employees forbidding such an action to occur.
Eason’s reason: he feels the senator had a doctrine of “negativity and hatred”.
It sounds like Eason is filled with his own negativity and hatred.
The flag was lowered soon after Eason retired.
Read more details from the Charlotte Observer.
Labels: Culture_Clash, News
¶ 7/14/2008 4 Comments Links to this post
Globalization captures American icon
The proposed purchase of an icon of American beer, Budweiser, by Belgium’s InBev is potentially just the beginning of a trend. As populations continue to migrate around the globe at unprecedented rates, products with well-known names are easier to sell. Couple this with a rapidly descending American dollar and it is easy to see that companies located in stronger currencies, such as the Euro, are ready to pounce.
Few American businesses truly understand the global marketplace as ripe for growth. Companies such as Wal-Mart and General Motors have found great benefit by being savvy global marketplace players. For Wal-Mart, understanding the culture of the budget-minded along with the nuances of local cultures have given the global mega-corporation a safe harbor against the falling dollar. At General Motors, growth in new markets, such as China, is saving the company as it innovates to deal with alternatives to the American SUV marketplace.
American products with high advertising budgets have made their name known around the world. The spread of the population has also carried word-of-mouth name recognition to new customers. As the price tag of American companies drops in other currencies, because 1 billion US dollars is far less British pounds than it use to be, they become targets of international conglomerates that have already learned the importance of reaching across borders for business growth.
Several politicians say they will fight the buy-out due to the negative impact on jobs, which could number as high as 6,000 being added to Missouri’s unemployment roles. They say they fear jobs will be moved to InBev’s headquarters in Europe. InBev is smart enough to know that some presence in the US will be necessary, however it will not need all 6,000.
This should anger the politicians. not because their constituents will be added to the job lost category, but because they were inept in understanding their role in keeping the dollar in the category of strong currencies. In other words, they should not be mad at InBev or Budweiser, but they should be mad at themselves.
Perhaps they should put down a few Buds during their month-long August vacation. It will be interesting to see how much more devalued the dollar is when they return in September.
The proposed purchase of an icon of American beer, Budweiser, by Belgium’s InBev is potentially just the beginning of a trend. As populations continue to migrate around the globe at unprecedented rates, products with well-known names are easier to sell. Couple this with a rapidly descending American dollar and it is easy to see that companies located in stronger currencies, such as the Euro, are ready to pounce.Few American businesses truly understand the global marketplace as ripe for growth. Companies such as Wal-Mart and General Motors have found great benefit by being savvy global marketplace players. For Wal-Mart, understanding the culture of the budget-minded along with the nuances of local cultures have given the global mega-corporation a safe harbor against the falling dollar. At General Motors, growth in new markets, such as China, is saving the company as it innovates to deal with alternatives to the American SUV marketplace.
American products with high advertising budgets have made their name known around the world. The spread of the population has also carried word-of-mouth name recognition to new customers. As the price tag of American companies drops in other currencies, because 1 billion US dollars is far less British pounds than it use to be, they become targets of international conglomerates that have already learned the importance of reaching across borders for business growth.
Several politicians say they will fight the buy-out due to the negative impact on jobs, which could number as high as 6,000 being added to Missouri’s unemployment roles. They say they fear jobs will be moved to InBev’s headquarters in Europe. InBev is smart enough to know that some presence in the US will be necessary, however it will not need all 6,000.
This should anger the politicians. not because their constituents will be added to the job lost category, but because they were inept in understanding their role in keeping the dollar in the category of strong currencies. In other words, they should not be mad at InBev or Budweiser, but they should be mad at themselves.
Perhaps they should put down a few Buds during their month-long August vacation. It will be interesting to see how much more devalued the dollar is when they return in September.
Labels: Business, Globalization, News
¶ 7/14/2008 3 Comments Links to this post
Sunday, July 13, 2008
North America gets smaller
Unlike the failed joint venture of the 80s between Microsoft and IBM, North America is about to benefit from a partnership where corporate cultures and customer demographics are more aligned. Dallas-based Southwest Airlines and Calgary-based WestJet have agreed on a partnership that will connect the American and Canadian airlines for the benefit of the budget minded travelers of both countries.
Both are leading budget carriers in their respective countries and have contemporary management cultures where teamwork and individual contribution is seen as equal among all employees.
The partnership will eliminate passengers from border cities and towns from driving to the other country to get low airfares for domestic travel as international travel will be more seamless and less expensive. Airports in Seattle/Vancouver, Detroit/Windsor, and Buffalo/Toronto have seen passengers drive to their airport across the border in order to domestic air travel.
The real success of the partnership may hinge on the treatment the airlines’ passengers are given by customs in both countries.
Read more about the partnership in the article from the Canadian Press.
Unlike the failed joint venture of the 80s between Microsoft and IBM, North America is about to benefit from a partnership where corporate cultures and customer demographics are more aligned. Dallas-based Southwest Airlines and Calgary-based WestJet have agreed on a partnership that will connect the American and Canadian airlines for the benefit of the budget minded travelers of both countries.Both are leading budget carriers in their respective countries and have contemporary management cultures where teamwork and individual contribution is seen as equal among all employees.
The partnership will eliminate passengers from border cities and towns from driving to the other country to get low airfares for domestic travel as international travel will be more seamless and less expensive. Airports in Seattle/Vancouver, Detroit/Windsor, and Buffalo/Toronto have seen passengers drive to their airport across the border in order to domestic air travel.
The real success of the partnership may hinge on the treatment the airlines’ passengers are given by customs in both countries.
Read more about the partnership in the article from the Canadian Press.
Labels: Corporate, News, Regional, Tourism
¶ 7/13/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
People get crazy about animals
Sometimes you see something in a news article that isn’t really in the article. Such is the case with the story of a man given 60 days in jail for blowing marijuana smoke in the face of a valuable kidnapped Pomeranian puppy. Do you see what’s missing?
Let me give you a little more information. The man did not just blow a little marijuana smoke in the puppy’s face – he blew so much that the little canine passed out. Now do you see what’s missing?
Okay, some more 411: an employee of the Petland store in suburban Chicago assisted in stealing the pooch and was placed on court supervision. Certainly now you see what is missing?
Last piece of data for you: the judge was appalled that someone would abuse an animal in such a way saying, “anyone who abuses animals for their own amusement has a problem.” Come on – the omission could not be plainer. Don’t you see it?
He was sentenced for animal abuse! Here we have someone that steals “merchandise” valued at $1,500 from a retail establishment, yet no punishment for that, even though he plead guilty and had two prior convictions. Yet even worse, the man had enough illegal marijuana to incapacitate the dog and there was no drug charge!
Now we do not want to sound like animal haters nor do we want to belittle the sentence for the abuse. But let’s be realistic, what is it about law enforcement that allows us to look the other way on some charges but not others?
What the court has told twice convicted thieves that if they are caught the third time they should plead guilty to some sort of animal abuse (although they do not actually have to abuse an animal). ¶ 7/08/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Sometimes you see something in a news article that isn’t really in the article. Such is the case with the story of a man given 60 days in jail for blowing marijuana smoke in the face of a valuable kidnapped Pomeranian puppy. Do you see what’s missing?Let me give you a little more information. The man did not just blow a little marijuana smoke in the puppy’s face – he blew so much that the little canine passed out. Now do you see what’s missing?
Okay, some more 411: an employee of the Petland store in suburban Chicago assisted in stealing the pooch and was placed on court supervision. Certainly now you see what is missing?
Last piece of data for you: the judge was appalled that someone would abuse an animal in such a way saying, “anyone who abuses animals for their own amusement has a problem.” Come on – the omission could not be plainer. Don’t you see it?
He was sentenced for animal abuse! Here we have someone that steals “merchandise” valued at $1,500 from a retail establishment, yet no punishment for that, even though he plead guilty and had two prior convictions. Yet even worse, the man had enough illegal marijuana to incapacitate the dog and there was no drug charge!
Now we do not want to sound like animal haters nor do we want to belittle the sentence for the abuse. But let’s be realistic, what is it about law enforcement that allows us to look the other way on some charges but not others?
What the court has told twice convicted thieves that if they are caught the third time they should plead guilty to some sort of animal abuse (although they do not actually have to abuse an animal). ¶ 7/08/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Monday, July 7, 2008
Man gives birth – really
Thomas Beatie has given birth to a healthy baby girl! This is not the first time he has been in the headlines. He used to be a model and made it to the finals of the Miss Hawaii Teen USA pageant.
Okay, there is more to this story. The former Tracy Lagondino decided to keep female sex organs during the change to become Thomas Beatie.
It is those organs that enabled Tracy, now Thomas, to conceive and deliver the girl, becoming the first man to have labor. ¶ 7/07/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Thomas Beatie has given birth to a healthy baby girl! This is not the first time he has been in the headlines. He used to be a model and made it to the finals of the Miss Hawaii Teen USA pageant.Okay, there is more to this story. The former Tracy Lagondino decided to keep female sex organs during the change to become Thomas Beatie.
It is those organs that enabled Tracy, now Thomas, to conceive and deliver the girl, becoming the first man to have labor. ¶ 7/07/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Banana alibi
Combating the drug culture is a global problem. Normally vary serious, there is an occasional bit of humor in the drug war. Take the case of two men stopped by the Costa Rican Police near the Panama border. According to the news report they claimed the exorbitant amount of cash they had, $372,000, was for bananas.
If convicted of the money laundering charges, will they a peel? ¶ 7/02/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Combating the drug culture is a global problem. Normally vary serious, there is an occasional bit of humor in the drug war. Take the case of two men stopped by the Costa Rican Police near the Panama border. According to the news report they claimed the exorbitant amount of cash they had, $372,000, was for bananas.If convicted of the money laundering charges, will they a peel? ¶ 7/02/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Award given to 13-year old Autistic Girl
Carly Fleishmann, a 13-year-old Autistic girl from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, has received the first Multicultural Achievement Award from MBC Global for 2008. MBC Global, a cultural education organization based in Rochester Hills, Michigan, USA, presented the award after viewing a story produced by Canada’s CTV.
“Leadership is not a person, it is a culture – a set of ways people act, react, work, relax, and think based on their life’s experiences”, says MBC Global President Rick Weaver. “People that have been placed in roles of leadership do not always fit the culture of leadership. Likewise people that are not in traditional leadership roles may very well display the characteristics of the culture of leaders. Carly has demonstrated strong leadership characteristics in presenting the thoughts and feelings of a culture of very special people.”
Read the full Press release by clicking here.
Read Carly’s writings by clicking here.
Learn more about Autism by clicking here.
See the other Quarterly Multicultural Achievement Award winners by clicking here.
Nominate someone for a Quarterly Multicultural Achievement Award by clicking here.
Carly Fleishmann, a 13-year-old Autistic girl from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, has received the first Multicultural Achievement Award from MBC Global for 2008. MBC Global, a cultural education organization based in Rochester Hills, Michigan, USA, presented the award after viewing a story produced by Canada’s CTV.“Leadership is not a person, it is a culture – a set of ways people act, react, work, relax, and think based on their life’s experiences”, says MBC Global President Rick Weaver. “People that have been placed in roles of leadership do not always fit the culture of leadership. Likewise people that are not in traditional leadership roles may very well display the characteristics of the culture of leaders. Carly has demonstrated strong leadership characteristics in presenting the thoughts and feelings of a culture of very special people.”
Read the full Press release by clicking here.
Read Carly’s writings by clicking here.
Learn more about Autism by clicking here.
See the other Quarterly Multicultural Achievement Award winners by clicking here.
Nominate someone for a Quarterly Multicultural Achievement Award by clicking here.
Labels: News, Special_People
¶ 6/24/2008 1 Comments Links to this post
Smoking culture
Members of the Smoking Culture continue to see the places at which they can smoke dwindle. First it was airplanes, buses, and restaurants. Then bars and hotel rooms became smoke-free. In some countries and states, smoking in all public buildings is banned.
Now the Ontario Provencal government has entered new territory by banning smoking in cars if children are present (read more here). Violators are subject to a $250 fine.
What product users will be the next to see their rights go up in smoke? ¶ 6/24/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Members of the Smoking Culture continue to see the places at which they can smoke dwindle. First it was airplanes, buses, and restaurants. Then bars and hotel rooms became smoke-free. In some countries and states, smoking in all public buildings is banned.
Now the Ontario Provencal government has entered new territory by banning smoking in cars if children are present (read more here). Violators are subject to a $250 fine.
What product users will be the next to see their rights go up in smoke? ¶ 6/24/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Drug trial halted by Sudoku
It transcends cultures because it is the same in any language. It is Sudoku, a cleaver little number puzzle where a cube of mini-cubes containing the numbers 1 through 9 cannot be repeated in any row, column, or mini-cube. Originated in the Japanese culture where there is a continual drive to keep the mind working and thinking, Sudoku is now extremely popular throughout the world.
Its fascination has now cost the government of Australia one-million of their dollars as a drug trial had to be halted after several jurors were found to be playing the game during the trial and deliberations. As a result, the three month drug trial will need to be restarted with a new jury.
What gave away the gamey violation was that several of the jurors were observed taking note vertically instead of horizontally! ¶ 6/14/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
It transcends cultures because it is the same in any language. It is Sudoku, a cleaver little number puzzle where a cube of mini-cubes containing the numbers 1 through 9 cannot be repeated in any row, column, or mini-cube. Originated in the Japanese culture where there is a continual drive to keep the mind working and thinking, Sudoku is now extremely popular throughout the world.Its fascination has now cost the government of Australia one-million of their dollars as a drug trial had to be halted after several jurors were found to be playing the game during the trial and deliberations. As a result, the three month drug trial will need to be restarted with a new jury.
What gave away the gamey violation was that several of the jurors were observed taking note vertically instead of horizontally! ¶ 6/14/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Friday, June 6, 2008
Apology not wanted – cough up cash
When it comes to pets, there are distinct differences between dog-lovers, cat-lovers, and those that love both. There are also those that like pets, but prefer alternative animals like ferrets, fish, birds, retiles, and others. One thing is for sure, all love their pets like as much or more than other family members.
Imaging the shock when Shawn and Beth Snider went to pick up their dog at the animal shelter in Denton, Texas, to learn it had mistakenly been put to sleep that morning.
The shelter has apologized and changed procedures to prevent future problems, but the Sniders aren’t happy. They say the apology isn’t enough as “it won’t bring their dog back.” Their remedy: cash! They have requested the city pay $206,000 to them for mental anguish and lost breeding fees.
Newsflash: cash won’t bring the dog back either!
We do not want to belittle the incident, but workers at animal shelters tend to be animal lovers. They are assuredly distraught over the mistake. No one will be a winner and the lawsuit will only prolong the suffering.
When it comes to pets, there are distinct differences between dog-lovers, cat-lovers, and those that love both. There are also those that like pets, but prefer alternative animals like ferrets, fish, birds, retiles, and others. One thing is for sure, all love their pets like as much or more than other family members.Imaging the shock when Shawn and Beth Snider went to pick up their dog at the animal shelter in Denton, Texas, to learn it had mistakenly been put to sleep that morning.
The shelter has apologized and changed procedures to prevent future problems, but the Sniders aren’t happy. They say the apology isn’t enough as “it won’t bring their dog back.” Their remedy: cash! They have requested the city pay $206,000 to them for mental anguish and lost breeding fees.
Newsflash: cash won’t bring the dog back either!
We do not want to belittle the incident, but workers at animal shelters tend to be animal lovers. They are assuredly distraught over the mistake. No one will be a winner and the lawsuit will only prolong the suffering.
Labels: News, Recreational
¶ 6/06/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Prison work = Child labor in Uganda
Breaking rocks is a mythical activity at prisons around the world. However to the children of Uganda, breaking rocks puts food on the table and a shelter overhead. In an article by Katy Pownall of the Associated Press, hundreds of people, including children, use homemade hammers as the work in a Kampala quarry.
It is a way of life in an area of the world where conflict had raged for decades. Unfortunately, they see no other opportunity except for their current lifestyle. ¶ 6/05/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Breaking rocks is a mythical activity at prisons around the world. However to the children of Uganda, breaking rocks puts food on the table and a shelter overhead. In an article by Katy Pownall of the Associated Press, hundreds of people, including children, use homemade hammers as the work in a Kampala quarry.It is a way of life in an area of the world where conflict had raged for decades. Unfortunately, they see no other opportunity except for their current lifestyle. ¶ 6/05/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Biking to work – all 42 miles!
Last week we reported how cultures are being changed by the rising costs of petroleum. Now we have learned through the KERO television in Bakersfield, California, about Louie Buentiempo. He is riding his bike 42 miles each way to work.
His positive comments on biking will certainly be motivational to the biking culture and bad news for petroleum producers.
Last week we reported how cultures are being changed by the rising costs of petroleum. Now we have learned through the KERO television in Bakersfield, California, about Louie Buentiempo. He is riding his bike 42 miles each way to work.His positive comments on biking will certainly be motivational to the biking culture and bad news for petroleum producers.
Labels: News, Recreational
¶ 6/04/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Beijing tells Olympic guests to follow local culture
Olympic organizers have published an extensive list of requirements visitors to the country’s big event in August. The list is designed to protect the Chinese culture from the many other cultures that will be participating in the world-wide athletic competition.
The Chinese are not the only ones passionate about their way of life. It serves any international traveler well to learn about a culture before taking a business or please trip.
To get the list, go to the official website. You will need a translator as the list is only available in Chinese. ¶ 6/03/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Olympic organizers have published an extensive list of requirements visitors to the country’s big event in August. The list is designed to protect the Chinese culture from the many other cultures that will be participating in the world-wide athletic competition.The Chinese are not the only ones passionate about their way of life. It serves any international traveler well to learn about a culture before taking a business or please trip.
To get the list, go to the official website. You will need a translator as the list is only available in Chinese. ¶ 6/03/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Monday, June 2, 2008
House hunting after 239 years
To some house hunting is easy. With transient lifestyles predominant throughout the world, many are experienced at locating a new residence.
But to the Gyanendra family in Kathmandu, Nepal, house hunting is a new experience. You see, they have lived in the same house for 239 years – the sprawling Narayanhity Palace.
When the Nepal assembly voted to turn the government into a republic, they gave the former royal family just two weeks to move out. Just imagine the challenge!
The ousted king has a plan tough – astrologers! He hopes they can help him locate adequate housing for his family and 239 years of stuff in the palace.
Be sure to visit our Cultural Bridges to learn more about the cultures that flavor our world. You can even add to the material to help others understand your culture!
To some house hunting is easy. With transient lifestyles predominant throughout the world, many are experienced at locating a new residence.But to the Gyanendra family in Kathmandu, Nepal, house hunting is a new experience. You see, they have lived in the same house for 239 years – the sprawling Narayanhity Palace.
When the Nepal assembly voted to turn the government into a republic, they gave the former royal family just two weeks to move out. Just imagine the challenge!
The ousted king has a plan tough – astrologers! He hopes they can help him locate adequate housing for his family and 239 years of stuff in the palace.
Be sure to visit our Cultural Bridges to learn more about the cultures that flavor our world. You can even add to the material to help others understand your culture!
Labels: News
¶ 6/02/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Sunday, June 1, 2008
No more paper airline tickets
The Millennial Generation may never know the trauma of searching for a paper airline ticket. Starting this month only 6% of scheduled international flights will still accept paper tickets. The move was originally designed to save money, but also provides ecological benefits.
Passengers now need only to be able to identify themselves, which is a requirement for virtually all international travel, in order to board a plane for which they have a paid reservation.
According to the airline industry, the savings are $3 billion per year – which can be used to buy fuel.
¶ 6/01/2008 0 Comments
Links to this post
Passengers now need only to be able to identify themselves, which is a requirement for virtually all international travel, in order to board a plane for which they have a paid reservation.
According to the airline industry, the savings are $3 billion per year – which can be used to buy fuel.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Riots highlight immigration problems
Almost every industrial nation is experienced new, heightened levels of immigration. North America’s United States and Mexico are seeing record numbers of new people from the nation directly to their south. Likewise, South Africa is experiencing a fluid movement of Africa’s population.
Rioting has broken out in South Africa as protesters are targeting foreign owned businesses. Assaults, looting, and murder are becoming too common as long-term local residents show their displeasure with immigrants whom they see as taking jobs in poorer areas of the country from the North West province to Johannesburg and Pretoria.
As with much of the world, the problem exists largely because of a separatist mentality. Immigrants need to get involved with a community and build relationships. This is not to say they must act, dress, eat, worship, or in anyway try to be “like” local residents. However the bonds of friendship will trump immigrant status almost every time.
In other words, immigrants should keep their original culture while integrating with their new neighbors.
Rioting has broken out in South Africa as protesters are targeting foreign owned businesses. Assaults, looting, and murder are becoming too common as long-term local residents show their displeasure with immigrants whom they see as taking jobs in poorer areas of the country from the North West province to Johannesburg and Pretoria.
As with much of the world, the problem exists largely because of a separatist mentality. Immigrants need to get involved with a community and build relationships. This is not to say they must act, dress, eat, worship, or in anyway try to be “like” local residents. However the bonds of friendship will trump immigrant status almost every time.
In other words, immigrants should keep their original culture while integrating with their new neighbors.
Labels: Culture_Clash, News, Regional
¶ 5/29/2008 0 Comments Links to this post
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Careful OPEC: High prices are changing cultures
Steeply rising crude prices could be severely hampering the future of the traditional petroleum industry as global cultures deal with alternatives. From Detroit to Cambodia more employees are turning to biking as a way to get to work, with many forming bike clubs to travel together.
Four-day workweeks are being introduced as a way to get drivers off the road, reducing oil consumption and road wear. Many institutes of higher learning are also cutting their schedule to four days by taking Monday-Wednesday-Friday classes to Monday-Wednesday only classes using the twice-a-week model already used for Tuesday-Thursday classes.
The move to smaller vehicles and alternative fuel vehicles is also becoming a part of regional and economic cultures.
Once the thinking of cultures has changed, they have difficulty reverting to older, abandoned ideas. This could mean OPEC will see a decline that will be difficult to offset without substantial population growth.
Steeply rising crude prices could be severely hampering the future of the traditional petroleum industry as global cultures deal with alternatives. From Detroit to Cambodia more employees are turning to biking as a way to get to work, with many forming bike clubs to travel together.Four-day workweeks are being introduced as a way to get drivers off the road, reducing oil consumption and road wear. Many institutes of higher learning are also cutting their schedule to four days by taking Monday-Wednesday-Friday classes to Monday-Wednesday only classes using the twice-a-week model already used for Tuesday-Thursday classes.
The move to smaller vehicles and alternative fuel vehicles is also becoming a part of regional and economic cultures.
Once the thinking of cultures has changed, they have difficulty reverting to older, abandoned ideas. This could mean OPEC will see a decline that will be difficult to offset without substantial population growth.
Labels: Business, Culture_Clash, News
¶ 5/28/2008 2 Comments Links to this post
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Chinese culture provides cure for bad breath
The secret to stopping bad breath recently discovered by the Wm Wrigley Jr Company of Chicago is actually a long-known fact by the Chinese culture. Magnolia bark extract, used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years, or longer, is now being added to Eclipse gum and mints.
The natural bark extract kills the microorganisms causing bad breath without staining teeth like many other solutions are known to do.
The secret to stopping bad breath recently discovered by the Wm Wrigley Jr Company of Chicago is actually a long-known fact by the Chinese culture. Magnolia bark extract, used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years, or longer, is now being added to Eclipse gum and mints.The natural bark extract kills the microorganisms causing bad breath without staining teeth like many other solutions are known to do.
Labels: Healthcare, News
¶ 5/27/2008 1 Comments Links to this post
Monday, May 26, 2008
Which is stronger: Laws or culture?
There has been a tremendous controversy brewing the United Kingdom as it struggles with a “Knife Culture”. Youth have latched onto the knife as a way to show dominance and territory, criminals are using knives more aggressively in robbery and murder.
It is very serious. During the past weekend, the out-of-control knife culture claimed the life of Rob Knox, one of the cast members of “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”. The 18-year-old was stabbed outside a bar in London.
The debate has turned into culture versus law. Some claim the only way to control the violence is through legislation. Others say the problem can only be reversed through culture.
History has taught us legislation does not work. With every new law written new outlaws are born.
For any societal negative the positive rests in changing the hearts and minds of the citizenry. When people’s views are changed, they will become societal norms. Education and experience produce stronger, more consistent results than the pen strokes of high-ranking governmental, religious, or business figures.
Baby Boomers throughout the world proclaimed the truth in the 1970s. “You cannot legislate morality.” It was an accurate battle cry that should not be forgotten.
There has been a tremendous controversy brewing the United Kingdom as it struggles with a “Knife Culture”. Youth have latched onto the knife as a way to show dominance and territory, criminals are using knives more aggressively in robbery and murder.It is very serious. During the past weekend, the out-of-control knife culture claimed the life of Rob Knox, one of the cast members of “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”. The 18-year-old was stabbed outside a bar in London.
The debate has turned into culture versus law. Some claim the only way to control the violence is through legislation. Others say the problem can only be reversed through culture.
History has taught us legislation does not work. With every new law written new outlaws are born.
For any societal negative the positive rests in changing the hearts and minds of the citizenry. When people’s views are changed, they will become societal norms. Education and experience produce stronger, more consistent results than the pen strokes of high-ranking governmental, religious, or business figures.
Baby Boomers throughout the world proclaimed the truth in the 1970s. “You cannot legislate morality.” It was an accurate battle cry that should not be forgotten.
Labels: Millennial, News, Parental
¶ 5/26/2008 2 Comments Links to this post
Friday, May 16, 2008
Africa culture in America threatened by development
When the American Civil War ended and West African slaves burnt the plantations on Sapelo Island as the white owners fled to mainland Georgia. What developed was a microcosm of the West African culture, which was still fresh in the minds of many of the newly freed slaves setting up their community.
Today the Atlantic island is a popular destination for tourists who want to learn more about this unique “Geechee” culture.
However the culture, which has survived for over a hundred years, is now under attack by development. Former residents left the island during the Great Depression and recent economic downturn. They are being offered huge sums for the property they still own on the island by developers seeing profits from the possibilities presented by the strategic recreational location of Sapelo.
When the American Civil War ended and West African slaves burnt the plantations on Sapelo Island as the white owners fled to mainland Georgia. What developed was a microcosm of the West African culture, which was still fresh in the minds of many of the newly freed slaves setting up their community.Today the Atlantic island is a popular destination for tourists who want to learn more about this unique “Geechee” culture.
However the culture, which has survived for over a hundred years, is now under attack by development. Former residents left the island during the Great Depression and recent economic downturn. They are being offered huge sums for the property they still own on the island by developers seeing profits from the possibilities presented by the strategic recreational location of Sapelo.