http://www.pulitzer.org/year/2007/public-service/works/wsjps18.html
Authors must write articles that appeal to a target audience. Charles Forelle wrote an excellent feature article, “How the Journal Analyzed Stock Option Grants,” for “The Wall Street Journal,” that exemplifies an author appealing to a particular audience. The audience demographic of this feature is obviously business people. First, Forelle writes very well to suit his audience’s interests. Second, he speaks in the mentality and understanding of economists', financiers', and large scale business managers' mindsets. Third, he gives the scientific data, methodology and references that all savvy economists and business people must have to consider such information valid or invalid. Forth, the accused and the accuser's arguements are presented in an unbiased fashion that avoids ostrisizing readers while detailing the methodology used to reach the given conclusions. Forelle created a well written feature article that exemplifies the characteristics of articles that appeal to many people of business and economic interests.
Business people have many generalized characterizations and Forelle capitalizes on two in particular. First, business people are nearly always interested in their investments, particularly if someone is manipulating their earnings or losses that may amount to millions and, at times, billions of dollars. Second, many middle management and higher business officers live extremely hectic lives that often consist of 60+ hour work weeks. Therefore, time is a precious commodity that is in scarce supply. Forelle wrote a concise piece that appeals to his readers interests and time constraints.
Mathematical principals govern much of the knowledge base of Business and Economics. Forelle focuses the meat of the article on detailed statistical information and the methodology for independent calculations. To further encourage his cynical audience, Forelle provides references to leading scholars that support the findings.
Forelle references leading scholars of multiple opinions to provide reporting that can be appreciated by most business and economic readers. Discourse between the two primary opinions could continue to occur after reading this article.
The writing style of Charles Forelle, although boring by many creative measurements, can be considered nearing perfection for an article directed at the cynical, overworked, precise, and discerning population of economists and business people of the United States.
Correction to the article: Forelle states, "The 20-day price rises don't present an immediate opportunity to profit, since options can't usually be exercised until held a year or more." This is inaccurate. According to the regulation specifed by the SEC (Securities Exchange Commision) on http://www.cnh.com/corporate/insider_trading_policy.asp there are many opportunities for financial officers to abuse the trading system, especially the lucrative options market. Financial Officers are banned from trading during "blackout periods." "Each Regular Blackout Period commences three weeks prior to the date that the Company’s quarterly earnings are scheduled to be released and ends on the second business day following the Company’s public release of its quarterly earnings" (5.1). "No Insider may engage in a short sale of the securities under any circumstances" (6.3). Options must be exercised by the third Friday of each month. Whether the option trade was made 3 years or 1 day in advance, the option exercise date is on the third Friday of the specified month. Therefore, the system described by "The Wall Street Journal" to buy options backdated to minimum prices would be completely plausible and possible for insider traders using call options outside of the "blackout periods." "Blackout periods" limit approximately 92 days a year. The rest of the trading days in a year (roughly75%) are fair game for financial fruad, especially when scholars are opposing the statistical system outlined by "The Wall Street Journal" to identify securities fraud.
It also must be noted that the only reason financial fraud using a backdating system is detectable results from the exorbitant greed of its perpetrators. If these perpetrators chose to backdate to a higher price that was still profitable the detection system would become useless.
More information on backdating: http://www.biz.uiowa.edu/faculty/elie/backdating.htm
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Kalamazoo Promise
On November 10, 2005 the Kalamazoo Promise was unveiled to the public. It was created for the future economic well being of the population of Kalamazoo.
A group of anonymous donors have given hundreds of millions of dollars to the children of Kalamazoo. It is far too much for any child to responsibly spend, but like a good parent the anonymous donors have invested it in these children’s college funds.
The endowment is estimated to be valued between 200 and 250 million dollars. It is amazing that someone would sacrifice so much anonymously for the benefit of strangers. Fortunately for the community of Kalamazoo some individual values the well being of Kalamazoo and its future enough to donate the massive amount of funding.
There is a catch to this however. The recipients of the benefits of the Kalamazoo Promise must be residents of Kalamazoo and attend Kalamazoo Public Schools. It is a welcomed relief to parents that are unable to afford the private school tuitions that are miniscule compared to the amount that college tuitions currently cost.
The only other communities in the United States to have created similar programs to catalyze future and current economic growth are Newton, Iowa and Denever, Colorado.
Parents should not get too excited yet, however, students that were in first grade or further at the time that the Kalamazoo Promise was enacted are required to pay the following amounts based on the length of attendance in the Kalamazoo Public School System:
K-12
100%
1-12
95%
2-12
95%
3-12
95%
4-12
90%
5-12
85%
6-12
80%
7-12
75%
8-12
70%
9-12
65%
10-12
None
11-12
None
12-12
None
It is nearly impossible to find a single resident of Kalamazoo that does not praise the Kalamazoo Promise.
When the promise was first enacted many were in disbelief of the generosity. When asked how she felt upon hearing of the Kalamazoo Promise Monalise James said, “Disbelief. I went to church on Sunday and one of the students that I was mentoring came up to me and said ‘MonaLisa, I can go to college now.’ I have never seen so much hope before. Kids who have always wanted to, but never had the opportunity can go to college now. Kids who never had the opportunity for academic or athletic scholarships. Seen the kids becoming more focused on school and schoolwork. The Promise has inspired them and they have inspired me. It is unlimited what can happen. Parents can show their kids that they can make it. I live in Kalamazoo and have no children, but if I decided to have children, I would consider moving to Kalamazoo for the Promise. Thinks that KPS needs to change academically to prepare students for college before she would send her children there.” The story of a hopeful child and an adult that appreciated the help that this endowment provided to the community is motivation for children and parents alike to strive for greater goals.
Although the Kalamazoo Public School System did not directly receive funding James recognizes the changes that have occurred in the way the organization is run. James said, “New programs for students in KPS. Still tossing around other ideas about how to better serve the community in light of the Promise.” Many others in the community feel the same way about the motivational changes that have occurred from the new hope offered to the children of Kalamazoo. Bronson hospital has, according to James, “Started new programs. Is talking with other organizations in the community to determine how Bronson can support the community. Bronson will still continue to have an annual scholarship for the sons and daughters of Bronson employees that are interested in going into the healthcare field.” Perhaps other major Kalamazoo organizations will follow suit to provide a renewed hope for Kalamazoo. Prior to this the outlook was bleak for many of the students. Michigan’s house foreclosure rate is at an all time high. Michigan’s unemployment rate is increasing. Michigan business are relocating. All of these factors decreased the likelihood that the less fortunate residents of Kalamazoo would be able to achieve and obtain a college education.
The principle of Woodward Elementary School, Victoria Ichungwa, had similar praises to speak of the Kalamazoo Promise. When asked about the indirect economic effects she said the Kalamazoo Promise will, “bring more families to the city, improve the economy, increase jobs and job opportunities enhance access to higher education.” The increased population that is moving to Kalamazoo to take advantage of the Kalamazoo Promise has created unique problems for the school system. When asked what Kalamazoo School systems have had to do to offset the increased number of students Ichungwas said they have had to, “Add more staff and provide a more diversified and improved way to teaching. This is because, the more children we have, the more creative we become.” Fortunately for the students the Kalamazoo School system has proved very resourceful.
The Kalamazoo Promise has opened the door to many Kalamazoo students and removed the burden of a difficult economic situation. With many people having less money to spend, especially those that send their children to Kalamazoo Public Schools, there is a general sense of relief for the philanthropic effort. Most importantly, the students, the children, are the future of Kalamazoo and fortunately for the community they are receiving the education that is the hallmark of successful cities.
A group of anonymous donors have given hundreds of millions of dollars to the children of Kalamazoo. It is far too much for any child to responsibly spend, but like a good parent the anonymous donors have invested it in these children’s college funds.
The endowment is estimated to be valued between 200 and 250 million dollars. It is amazing that someone would sacrifice so much anonymously for the benefit of strangers. Fortunately for the community of Kalamazoo some individual values the well being of Kalamazoo and its future enough to donate the massive amount of funding.
There is a catch to this however. The recipients of the benefits of the Kalamazoo Promise must be residents of Kalamazoo and attend Kalamazoo Public Schools. It is a welcomed relief to parents that are unable to afford the private school tuitions that are miniscule compared to the amount that college tuitions currently cost.
The only other communities in the United States to have created similar programs to catalyze future and current economic growth are Newton, Iowa and Denever, Colorado.
Parents should not get too excited yet, however, students that were in first grade or further at the time that the Kalamazoo Promise was enacted are required to pay the following amounts based on the length of attendance in the Kalamazoo Public School System:
K-12
100%
1-12
95%
2-12
95%
3-12
95%
4-12
90%
5-12
85%
6-12
80%
7-12
75%
8-12
70%
9-12
65%
10-12
None
11-12
None
12-12
None
It is nearly impossible to find a single resident of Kalamazoo that does not praise the Kalamazoo Promise.
When the promise was first enacted many were in disbelief of the generosity. When asked how she felt upon hearing of the Kalamazoo Promise Monalise James said, “Disbelief. I went to church on Sunday and one of the students that I was mentoring came up to me and said ‘MonaLisa, I can go to college now.’ I have never seen so much hope before. Kids who have always wanted to, but never had the opportunity can go to college now. Kids who never had the opportunity for academic or athletic scholarships. Seen the kids becoming more focused on school and schoolwork. The Promise has inspired them and they have inspired me. It is unlimited what can happen. Parents can show their kids that they can make it. I live in Kalamazoo and have no children, but if I decided to have children, I would consider moving to Kalamazoo for the Promise. Thinks that KPS needs to change academically to prepare students for college before she would send her children there.” The story of a hopeful child and an adult that appreciated the help that this endowment provided to the community is motivation for children and parents alike to strive for greater goals.
Although the Kalamazoo Public School System did not directly receive funding James recognizes the changes that have occurred in the way the organization is run. James said, “New programs for students in KPS. Still tossing around other ideas about how to better serve the community in light of the Promise.” Many others in the community feel the same way about the motivational changes that have occurred from the new hope offered to the children of Kalamazoo. Bronson hospital has, according to James, “Started new programs. Is talking with other organizations in the community to determine how Bronson can support the community. Bronson will still continue to have an annual scholarship for the sons and daughters of Bronson employees that are interested in going into the healthcare field.” Perhaps other major Kalamazoo organizations will follow suit to provide a renewed hope for Kalamazoo. Prior to this the outlook was bleak for many of the students. Michigan’s house foreclosure rate is at an all time high. Michigan’s unemployment rate is increasing. Michigan business are relocating. All of these factors decreased the likelihood that the less fortunate residents of Kalamazoo would be able to achieve and obtain a college education.
The principle of Woodward Elementary School, Victoria Ichungwa, had similar praises to speak of the Kalamazoo Promise. When asked about the indirect economic effects she said the Kalamazoo Promise will, “bring more families to the city, improve the economy, increase jobs and job opportunities enhance access to higher education.” The increased population that is moving to Kalamazoo to take advantage of the Kalamazoo Promise has created unique problems for the school system. When asked what Kalamazoo School systems have had to do to offset the increased number of students Ichungwas said they have had to, “Add more staff and provide a more diversified and improved way to teaching. This is because, the more children we have, the more creative we become.” Fortunately for the students the Kalamazoo School system has proved very resourceful.
The Kalamazoo Promise has opened the door to many Kalamazoo students and removed the burden of a difficult economic situation. With many people having less money to spend, especially those that send their children to Kalamazoo Public Schools, there is a general sense of relief for the philanthropic effort. Most importantly, the students, the children, are the future of Kalamazoo and fortunately for the community they are receiving the education that is the hallmark of successful cities.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Final Assignment Update
I am writing my final assignment on the Kalamazoo Promise. I hope to explore the positive effects of the massive philanthropic work.
Final Draft of Lt Dan. (Untitled)
In 1967, the United States government drafted Dan Clifford to fight in Vietnam in defense of American ideals. When asked forty years later how he felt, he replies, “angry, but it was the best decision I ever made.” Clifford, a reserved story teller that often does not elaborate past the facts, becomes excited when recalling “the best decision” he ever made. “The decision,” applying to Officer Candidate School upon receiving his draft notice.
Drafted as an enlisted soldier, Clifford utilized his recently obtained college degree to enter the Officer Candidate School (OCS), an organization that educated him in organization and leadership. Over three years, Clifford prepared to lead a detachment of his countrymen. Knowledge Clifford gained during his training serves him well to this day when administering to his community, his true passion.
Military service changed the course of Clifford’s life and directed him to his job as a Public Administrator in Wayne County. Clifford states, “There is nothing I would rather be doing.” When describing the course of his life, Clifford, usually reserved, quickly excites to describe his civic duties. Contrasting the detailed description of his less threatening responsibilities, in Wayne County, stories of the War in Vietnam lack the detail many would expect from such a stressful and exciting experience. Understanding the mentality of this young man, sent unwillingly to war, remains difficult when speaking to Clifford.
Clifford tells the story of his Vietnamese experience that is extraordinarily similar to the character, Lt. Dan, in the movie, “Forest Gump.” Lt. Dan Clifford’s personality, however, starkly contrasts the fictional character that eagerly charged into battle awaiting the day that he could die on the battle field.
Clifford first arrived in Vietnam in February of ’70. Armed with two weapons: a gun and the rank of Lieutenant, he commands a platoon that effectively contributed to the deracination of localized Viet Kong by utilizing “vastly superior American fire power.” Clifford quickly describes his first three months of fighting in Vietnam without any great elaboration. However, Clifford often comments on the unequaled American fire power that fostered a secure sense of safety in the Lieutenant.
Lt. Dan fulfilled his duties as a platoon commander by maintaining a well disciplined combat unit. Lt. Dan recalls one negative incident in his unit, “three of his soldiers smoked marijuana.” Such situations required immediate attention from a collected leader to avoid physical risk to the platoon. The description of the event decades later still contains just the facts that characterize the majority of Lt. Dan’s Vietnam war stories.
Lt. Dan’s service became much more exciting on April 25, 1970, the President of the United States ordered troops into Cambodia. On May 4, 1970, this command would result in the deaths of nine and wounding of four at Kent State University. This is an interesting note that Clifford shares to highlight the social volatility that awaited his return to the United States.
When asked about his feelings regarding the deaths of three of his men, he simply says, after being asked twice, “We did not really talk about it.” A short pause after this statement gave a feeling of sentimental recollection. Unemotional description of his tour on rare occasions gave way to excited stories of relatively mundane events. During Lt. Dan’s description of his tour in Vietnam, only twice did the stolid story come to life with enthusiasm in his voice.
June of ’70 Lt. Dan’s platoon entered the most deadly ambush organized by the Viet Kong against their platoon since arriving in the combat zone. Bullets whizzed through the air inches above them. Lt. Dan and his platoon use what little cover they can scramble to while firing their unmatched American weaponry. Suddenly, a grenade exploded enveloping Lt. Dan with shrapnel. The subsequent wounds rendered his arm useless for the remainder of his combat career. Nevertheless, the collected commander with a robotic sense of logical rationale continued his role without showing signs of fear, that he claims never crossed his mind. A B-52 flew over head delivering its massive ordinance on the enemy. In true Lt. Dan fashion, the battle description lacks excitement but the anticipation he felt to glimpse the B-52 resonates unmistakably in his voice. He describes the excitement that rushed through his mind as the massive 2000 lbs bombs explode on the enemy positions rattling the earth like an earth quake.
As a result of Lt. Dan’s injury, the United States Army filed his honorable discharge. The Lieutenant makes the journey from a Vietnamese hospital to Japan on his way back to America. Clifford requested to reenter the United States through the state of Washington, a state he never before visited. This final description of Clifford’s Vietnamese odyssey brings an emotional description of his return to the United States, the country he nearly died for.
Clifford did not perceive the war in Vietnam as his opportunity for excitement. Taking pleasure in the simple things that many often dismiss gives Clifford excitement. Just a man that desired the peace and calm of a constructive life style, Clifford took as much as he could from what many considered one of the worst experiences of their lives. Now Clifford puts the knowledge he gained while doing his unavoidable duty to productive use, creating a better Wayne County and improving the lives of his fellow Americans. The events could not be changed, only dealt with and the virtuous individual, Clifford, made the best of bad situation.
Drafted as an enlisted soldier, Clifford utilized his recently obtained college degree to enter the Officer Candidate School (OCS), an organization that educated him in organization and leadership. Over three years, Clifford prepared to lead a detachment of his countrymen. Knowledge Clifford gained during his training serves him well to this day when administering to his community, his true passion.
Military service changed the course of Clifford’s life and directed him to his job as a Public Administrator in Wayne County. Clifford states, “There is nothing I would rather be doing.” When describing the course of his life, Clifford, usually reserved, quickly excites to describe his civic duties. Contrasting the detailed description of his less threatening responsibilities, in Wayne County, stories of the War in Vietnam lack the detail many would expect from such a stressful and exciting experience. Understanding the mentality of this young man, sent unwillingly to war, remains difficult when speaking to Clifford.
Clifford tells the story of his Vietnamese experience that is extraordinarily similar to the character, Lt. Dan, in the movie, “Forest Gump.” Lt. Dan Clifford’s personality, however, starkly contrasts the fictional character that eagerly charged into battle awaiting the day that he could die on the battle field.
Clifford first arrived in Vietnam in February of ’70. Armed with two weapons: a gun and the rank of Lieutenant, he commands a platoon that effectively contributed to the deracination of localized Viet Kong by utilizing “vastly superior American fire power.” Clifford quickly describes his first three months of fighting in Vietnam without any great elaboration. However, Clifford often comments on the unequaled American fire power that fostered a secure sense of safety in the Lieutenant.
Lt. Dan fulfilled his duties as a platoon commander by maintaining a well disciplined combat unit. Lt. Dan recalls one negative incident in his unit, “three of his soldiers smoked marijuana.” Such situations required immediate attention from a collected leader to avoid physical risk to the platoon. The description of the event decades later still contains just the facts that characterize the majority of Lt. Dan’s Vietnam war stories.
Lt. Dan’s service became much more exciting on April 25, 1970, the President of the United States ordered troops into Cambodia. On May 4, 1970, this command would result in the deaths of nine and wounding of four at Kent State University. This is an interesting note that Clifford shares to highlight the social volatility that awaited his return to the United States.
When asked about his feelings regarding the deaths of three of his men, he simply says, after being asked twice, “We did not really talk about it.” A short pause after this statement gave a feeling of sentimental recollection. Unemotional description of his tour on rare occasions gave way to excited stories of relatively mundane events. During Lt. Dan’s description of his tour in Vietnam, only twice did the stolid story come to life with enthusiasm in his voice.
June of ’70 Lt. Dan’s platoon entered the most deadly ambush organized by the Viet Kong against their platoon since arriving in the combat zone. Bullets whizzed through the air inches above them. Lt. Dan and his platoon use what little cover they can scramble to while firing their unmatched American weaponry. Suddenly, a grenade exploded enveloping Lt. Dan with shrapnel. The subsequent wounds rendered his arm useless for the remainder of his combat career. Nevertheless, the collected commander with a robotic sense of logical rationale continued his role without showing signs of fear, that he claims never crossed his mind. A B-52 flew over head delivering its massive ordinance on the enemy. In true Lt. Dan fashion, the battle description lacks excitement but the anticipation he felt to glimpse the B-52 resonates unmistakably in his voice. He describes the excitement that rushed through his mind as the massive 2000 lbs bombs explode on the enemy positions rattling the earth like an earth quake.
As a result of Lt. Dan’s injury, the United States Army filed his honorable discharge. The Lieutenant makes the journey from a Vietnamese hospital to Japan on his way back to America. Clifford requested to reenter the United States through the state of Washington, a state he never before visited. This final description of Clifford’s Vietnamese odyssey brings an emotional description of his return to the United States, the country he nearly died for.
Clifford did not perceive the war in Vietnam as his opportunity for excitement. Taking pleasure in the simple things that many often dismiss gives Clifford excitement. Just a man that desired the peace and calm of a constructive life style, Clifford took as much as he could from what many considered one of the worst experiences of their lives. Now Clifford puts the knowledge he gained while doing his unavoidable duty to productive use, creating a better Wayne County and improving the lives of his fellow Americans. The events could not be changed, only dealt with and the virtuous individual, Clifford, made the best of bad situation.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Response to "Gone: Mass Extinctions and the Hazards of Earth's Vanishing Biodiversity"
The author brings attempts to bring the reader into the environment by offering a detailed description of the environment as the opening. Then the death of an unfortunate hiker is described. Apparently, the detailed description of this death is supposed to serve as an argument for the fragility of species that lack genetic and biodiversity. Humans are simply adapted for a different environment than a lizard or a snake. Unfortunately, the hiker's death had little or noting to do with genetic or biodiversity.
As a side note, some of the species that are most capable of survival in harsh environments have the least, relative, genetic diversity. An example of such are cockroaches. It is imprtant to recognize that cockroaches, like most other species, are adapted for a particular environment. Humans are adapted for a mental, athletic, and beautfy alleles. The process of natural selection rarily pressures humans' genetic code to be more adapted for harsh desert environment.
The author mentions many facts to prove that an extinction is, in fact, occurring. It is important that ignorant people are educated about this fact, but for the author it provides a solid base to build her arguement. She followed this by stating that this sixth mass extinction threatens the human population. How? I can think of no such way that is of great importance to humanity's current physiological survival. The true threat is to the potential improvements that could be generated from knowledge of a soon to be extinct unknown species.
The dilemma of losing potential improvements to humanity through the use of biological traits common to unknown species can be partially avoided by cataloging the genetic codes of all species. This would make identification of desirable traits more difficulty as the features could not be seen in the natural environments, but, nevertheless, it still has some benefits.
The author did not provide facts for diverse arguments. There are many regions that offer compelling arguments for Global Warming. But these regions have their counterparts that do not support Global Warming.
The author did not provide enough unbiased information to convince people that are well versed and opposed to some aspects of her arguments. Nevertheless, her argument was compelling and educational to people that may be knowledgeable and those that are ignorant.
As a side note, some of the species that are most capable of survival in harsh environments have the least, relative, genetic diversity. An example of such are cockroaches. It is imprtant to recognize that cockroaches, like most other species, are adapted for a particular environment. Humans are adapted for a mental, athletic, and beautfy alleles. The process of natural selection rarily pressures humans' genetic code to be more adapted for harsh desert environment.
The author mentions many facts to prove that an extinction is, in fact, occurring. It is important that ignorant people are educated about this fact, but for the author it provides a solid base to build her arguement. She followed this by stating that this sixth mass extinction threatens the human population. How? I can think of no such way that is of great importance to humanity's current physiological survival. The true threat is to the potential improvements that could be generated from knowledge of a soon to be extinct unknown species.
The dilemma of losing potential improvements to humanity through the use of biological traits common to unknown species can be partially avoided by cataloging the genetic codes of all species. This would make identification of desirable traits more difficulty as the features could not be seen in the natural environments, but, nevertheless, it still has some benefits.
The author did not provide facts for diverse arguments. There are many regions that offer compelling arguments for Global Warming. But these regions have their counterparts that do not support Global Warming.
The author did not provide enough unbiased information to convince people that are well versed and opposed to some aspects of her arguments. Nevertheless, her argument was compelling and educational to people that may be knowledgeable and those that are ignorant.
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Lt. Dan Story: Possible Changes
I have concluded that I should use one of two ideas for alterations to my Lt. Dan story. First possibility, add a past tense segment that has flashbacks to Vietnam with a similar story line. Second possibility, focus on the high rate of mortality among platoon commanders. The extremely high death rate relative to other ranks was caused by friendly fire, and inadequate training in the field, despite, being the primary enemy targets in the average fire fight.
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
"Bareback Mountain" Response
Although Limbaugh's strong opinions may alienate many readers, there are many readers that support his opinions with similar vehemence. Limbaugh walks a fine line of opinion and fact as he compacts many opinions into the short space he had been allotted. The quick changes between subject matter increases the perceived reading time. No matter the demographic of the readers more statistics would be helpful.
My thoughts on "Fear of Blogging"
Fear of Blogging, by Dahlia Lithwick, provides clear explanations of situations in which the anonymity of the Internet has allowed for, at times, a hostile environment. The transgressions that violate inalienable legal rights to personal safety are occurring more often and with greater intensity as mass Internet communication gained popularity. She provides many examples that clearly portray the situations people's personal lives were threatened via Internet communications from unknown individuals. The possible solution to this problem follows:
If blog sites increased the amount of advertisement space for sale they would be able to increase revenue. This revenue could be then used to provide monitors which would ban the IPs (a number that identifies a particular Internet connection), email addresses, and accounts of overly zealous individuals. The creation of a new account would require an email address that could only be obtained through domains that required some form identification (service provider email, academic email, business email, etc.). This would provide a means for authorities to track potentially dangerous individuals. Regulations such as these would greatly limit personal Internet threats to individuals that actively avoided sharing personal information and/or correspondence.
Unfortunately many people tempt fate, people often provide personal information that should be kept secret in the public realm. This is one of the main dilemmas that catalyzes may of these cases of the Internet blurring the lines between personal and private.
There are too many cases that are almost unavoidable with current systems and technology.
If blog sites increased the amount of advertisement space for sale they would be able to increase revenue. This revenue could be then used to provide monitors which would ban the IPs (a number that identifies a particular Internet connection), email addresses, and accounts of overly zealous individuals. The creation of a new account would require an email address that could only be obtained through domains that required some form identification (service provider email, academic email, business email, etc.). This would provide a means for authorities to track potentially dangerous individuals. Regulations such as these would greatly limit personal Internet threats to individuals that actively avoided sharing personal information and/or correspondence.
Unfortunately many people tempt fate, people often provide personal information that should be kept secret in the public realm. This is one of the main dilemmas that catalyzes may of these cases of the Internet blurring the lines between personal and private.
There are too many cases that are almost unavoidable with current systems and technology.
Lt. Dan piece possible changes
I have been thinking about changing the way the story is told in terms of the tenses used during certain parts. Opinions?
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Must be said...
When I wrote the Lt. Dan piece I tried a completely different style of writing. In some places it just does not sound right and it must be adjusted. I would like to do that now but I would rather get some feedback before I cut the piece up. I also have more info that Dan Clifford gave me; I have additional info that can be put in to substitute unwanted sections. I will only take out sections though if it becomes apprtent that I need to speed the piece up after I change some of the conjugations.
Most I have learned from any writing assignment
The process of writing the profile on Lt. Dan taught me a lot about story telling and the writing process. It took me about five times to tell the story in prsent tense with an active voice but it was great practice. When I was writing it I had a great time. While I was writing the battle scene in which Lt Dan was injured I was dreaming of the events as if I was there in the fox hole watching Lt. Dan. I honestly stood up from my computer feeling like a million bucks.
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Edits Lt. DAN!!!!
Forcing the young men of the United States into jungles of the Indochinese peninsula loaded with concealed dangers; conscription protects the democratic rights of trammeled Vietnamese, enslaved by the “Bamboo Curtain” of communism. The United States continues the thirteen year effort to defend democracy in Vietnam at the cost of its citizens’ lives. American soldiers, the defenders of democracy, champions of freedom, jeopardize themselves in the name of liberty.
In 1967, one such individual, Dan Clifford, receives the notification of conscription that forever changes his life. The United States Army requires his mandatory military service as a defender of democracy. Clifford utilizes his recently obtained degree to enter the Officer Candidate School (OCS). OCS molds the intelligent man, edifying him into a specially trained infantry officer qualified to lead men to, potentially, death. Over three years, Clifford prepares to lead a detachment of his countrymen against an experienced and beguiling enemy concealed in dense jungles, cities and villages.
In February of ’70, Clifford arrives at his base camp near the Cambodian boarder with two weapons, a gun and the rank of Lieutenant, he effectively contributes to the deracination of localized Viet Kong by utilizing both. Often platoons reject newly transferred individuals but Lt. Dan fits in seamlessly with his men while still maintaining the distance necessary to effectively command.
.When three of his men lose their lives during an ambush Lt. Dan, detached and rational, acknowledges their deaths but exhibits no feeling of loss. He risks the lives of the entire platoon if he losses his preparedness and, therefore, his detachment saves the platoon from confusion. The other platoon members also, generally, refrains from sentimentally discussing the deaths. The soldiers have a difficult and stressful duty to their country.
Lt. Dan’s platoon often exemplifies the coherent force necessary to survive. The levelheaded rational Lieutenant commands the group of 25 with a surreal calmness he exhibits while discussing the events that excite listeners.
Internal threats to the platoon quickly attract Lt. Dan’s attention. When three soldiers endanger the lives of the platoon by smoking marijuana in a combat zone. Lt. Dan brings discipline quickly to insure no future dangers manifest during skirmishes.
Lt. Dan receives a message ordering the platoon to move out for their first of many Cambodian Incursions. The command comes directly from the president, dated April 25, 1970, only a few days later would this order contribute in the deaths of nine and the wounding of four at Kent State University on May 4, 1970. Lt. Dan’s platoon belongs to the 25th infantry that spear heads the new offensive, Cambodian Campaign.
June of ’70 Lt. Dan’s platoon enters the most deadly ambush organized by the Viet Kong against their platoon since arriving in the combat zone. Bullets whizz through the air inches above the dry river bed. Lt. Dan and his platoon use for cover while spraying bullets in random directions praying to his a concealed enemy. Lt. Dan begins to give his order indicating the defensive strategy. Suddenly, a grenade explodes enveloping Lt. Dan with shrapnel. The subsequent wounds render his arm useless for the rest of his combat career. Nevertheless, the collected commander with a robotic sense of logical duty to the platoon continues his role without showing signs of fear, that he claims never crossed his mind. The means of survival and death we his only thoughts. Lt. Dan acts quickly as the incoming fire worsens, he calls in an air strike. Excitement rushes through his mind in anticipation of witnessing his first close air support assault. The massive 2000 lbs bombs explode on the enemy positions. The blasts shake the earth thousands of feet away. Lt. Dan looks up in anticipation to see the plane that brought the earthquake. The jets have already come and gone, delivering their awesome destruction with the efficiencies that represent the antipode of most battles in the Vietnamese and Cambodian wilderness. The Viet Kong disappear back into the jungle to hide in their tiny passageways of a labyrinth that may have opens within a few hundred feet of their position., Lt. Dan orders the platoon to prepare for a fast move back to the base camp where the unequaled American weapons can easily defend the wounded, Lt. Dan among them.
Clifford, finally, returns State Side after a brief stay in a Vietnamese hospital and then in Japan. He requests to reenter the United States through Washington to see a state that he has never seen before. The recollection of this incursion, across the state lines of Washington, brings more excitement than when he nearly died in a shallow ditch.
When Clifford answers questions about his feelings following the draft notice, he answers with the logical sense that acknowledges the events as unalterable. These occurrences can not be changed; only dealt with.
Clifford now regards his enlistment for military service in Vietnam as one of the greatest decisions he ever made. Dan Clifford currently uses his organizational skills as a public administrator in Wayne County, Michigan. He still speaks with an uncommonly calm tone many might consider boring if his stories did not contain such exciting events.
Sources:
Lieutenant Dan Clifford- (248)393-80XX
https://www.infantry.army.mil/ocs/
http://www.vietnamembassy-usa.org/learn_about_vietnam/geography/regions_and_climate/
In 1967, one such individual, Dan Clifford, receives the notification of conscription that forever changes his life. The United States Army requires his mandatory military service as a defender of democracy. Clifford utilizes his recently obtained degree to enter the Officer Candidate School (OCS). OCS molds the intelligent man, edifying him into a specially trained infantry officer qualified to lead men to, potentially, death. Over three years, Clifford prepares to lead a detachment of his countrymen against an experienced and beguiling enemy concealed in dense jungles, cities and villages.
In February of ’70, Clifford arrives at his base camp near the Cambodian boarder with two weapons, a gun and the rank of Lieutenant, he effectively contributes to the deracination of localized Viet Kong by utilizing both. Often platoons reject newly transferred individuals but Lt. Dan fits in seamlessly with his men while still maintaining the distance necessary to effectively command.
.When three of his men lose their lives during an ambush Lt. Dan, detached and rational, acknowledges their deaths but exhibits no feeling of loss. He risks the lives of the entire platoon if he losses his preparedness and, therefore, his detachment saves the platoon from confusion. The other platoon members also, generally, refrains from sentimentally discussing the deaths. The soldiers have a difficult and stressful duty to their country.
Lt. Dan’s platoon often exemplifies the coherent force necessary to survive. The levelheaded rational Lieutenant commands the group of 25 with a surreal calmness he exhibits while discussing the events that excite listeners.
Internal threats to the platoon quickly attract Lt. Dan’s attention. When three soldiers endanger the lives of the platoon by smoking marijuana in a combat zone. Lt. Dan brings discipline quickly to insure no future dangers manifest during skirmishes.
Lt. Dan receives a message ordering the platoon to move out for their first of many Cambodian Incursions. The command comes directly from the president, dated April 25, 1970, only a few days later would this order contribute in the deaths of nine and the wounding of four at Kent State University on May 4, 1970. Lt. Dan’s platoon belongs to the 25th infantry that spear heads the new offensive, Cambodian Campaign.
June of ’70 Lt. Dan’s platoon enters the most deadly ambush organized by the Viet Kong against their platoon since arriving in the combat zone. Bullets whizz through the air inches above the dry river bed. Lt. Dan and his platoon use for cover while spraying bullets in random directions praying to his a concealed enemy. Lt. Dan begins to give his order indicating the defensive strategy. Suddenly, a grenade explodes enveloping Lt. Dan with shrapnel. The subsequent wounds render his arm useless for the rest of his combat career. Nevertheless, the collected commander with a robotic sense of logical duty to the platoon continues his role without showing signs of fear, that he claims never crossed his mind. The means of survival and death we his only thoughts. Lt. Dan acts quickly as the incoming fire worsens, he calls in an air strike. Excitement rushes through his mind in anticipation of witnessing his first close air support assault. The massive 2000 lbs bombs explode on the enemy positions. The blasts shake the earth thousands of feet away. Lt. Dan looks up in anticipation to see the plane that brought the earthquake. The jets have already come and gone, delivering their awesome destruction with the efficiencies that represent the antipode of most battles in the Vietnamese and Cambodian wilderness. The Viet Kong disappear back into the jungle to hide in their tiny passageways of a labyrinth that may have opens within a few hundred feet of their position., Lt. Dan orders the platoon to prepare for a fast move back to the base camp where the unequaled American weapons can easily defend the wounded, Lt. Dan among them.
Clifford, finally, returns State Side after a brief stay in a Vietnamese hospital and then in Japan. He requests to reenter the United States through Washington to see a state that he has never seen before. The recollection of this incursion, across the state lines of Washington, brings more excitement than when he nearly died in a shallow ditch.
When Clifford answers questions about his feelings following the draft notice, he answers with the logical sense that acknowledges the events as unalterable. These occurrences can not be changed; only dealt with.
Clifford now regards his enlistment for military service in Vietnam as one of the greatest decisions he ever made. Dan Clifford currently uses his organizational skills as a public administrator in Wayne County, Michigan. He still speaks with an uncommonly calm tone many might consider boring if his stories did not contain such exciting events.
Sources:
Lieutenant Dan Clifford- (248)393-80XX
https://www.infantry.army.mil/ocs/
http://www.vietnamembassy-usa.org/learn_about_vietnam/geography/regions_and_climate/
Lt. Dan!!!
Forcing the young men of the United States into jungles of the Indochinese peninsula loaded with concealed dangers; conscription protects the democratic rights of trammeled Vietnamese, enslaved by the “Bamboo Curtain” of communism. The United States continues the thirteen year effort to defend democracy in Vietnam at the cost of its citizens’ lives. American soldiers, the defenders of democracy, champions of freedom, jeopardize themselves in the name of liberty.
In 1967, one such individual, Dan Clifford, receives the notification of conscription that forever changes his life. The United States Army requires his mandatory military service as a defender of democracy. Clifford utilizes his recently obtained degree to enter the Officer Candidate School (OCS). OCS molds the intelligent man, edifying him into a specially trained infantry officer qualified to lead men to, potentially, death. Over three years, Clifford prepares to lead a detachment of his countrymen against an experienced and beguiling enemy concealed in dense jungles, cities and villages.
In February of ’70, Clifford arrives at his base camp near the Cambodian boarder with two weapons, a gun and the rank of Lieutenant, he effectively contributes to the deracination of localized Viet Kong by utilizing both. Often platoons reject newly transferred individuals but Lt. Dan fits in seamlessly with his men while still maintaining the distance necessary to effectively command.
.When three of his men lose their lives during an ambush Lt. Dan, detached and rational, acknowledges their deaths but exhibits no feeling of loss. He risks the lives of the entire platoon if he losses his preparedness and, therefore, his detachment saves the platoon from confusion. The other platoon members also, generally, refrains from sentimentally discussing the deaths. The soldiers have a difficult and stressful duty to their country.
Lt. Dan’s platoon often exemplifies the coherent force necessary to survive. The levelheaded rational Lieutenant commands the group of 25 with a surreal calmness he exhibits while discussing the events that excite listeners.
Internal threats to the platoon quickly attract Lt. Dan’s attention. When three soldiers endanger the lives of the platoon by smoking marijuana in a combat zone. Lt. Dan brings discipline quickly to insure no future dangers manifest during skirmishes.
Lt. Dan receives a message ordering the platoon to move out for their first of many Cambodian Incursions. The command comes directly from the president, dated April 25, 1970, only a few days later would this order contribute in the deaths of nine and the wounding of four at Kent State University on May 4, 1970. Lt. Dan’s platoon belongs to the 25th infantry that spear heads the new offensive, Cambodian Campaign.
June of ’70 Lt. Dan’s platoon enters the most deadly ambush organized by the Viet Kong against their platoon since arriving in the combat zone. Bullets whizz through the air inches above the dry river bed. Lt. Dan and his platoon use for cover while spraying bullets in random directions praying to his a concealed enemy. Lt. Dan begins to give his order indicating the defensive strategy. Suddenly, a grenade explodes enveloping Lt. Dan with shrapnel. The subsequent wounds render his arm useless for the rest of his combat career. Nevertheless, the collected commander with a robotic sense of logical duty to the platoon continues his role without showing signs of fear, that he claims never crossed his mind. The means of survival and death we his only thoughts. Lt. Dan acts quickly as the incoming fire worsens, he calls in an air strike. Excitement rushes through his mind in anticipation of witnessing his first close air support assault. The massive 2000 lbs bombs explode on the enemy positions. The blasts shake the earth thousands of feet away. Lt. Dan looks up in anticipation to see the plane that brought the earthquake. The jets have already come and gone, delivering their awesome destruction with the efficiencies that represent the antipode of most battles in the Vietnamese and Cambodian wilderness. The Viet Kong disappear back into the jungle to hide in their tiny passageways of a labyrinth that may have opens within a few hundred feet of their position., Lt. Dan orders the platoon to prepare for a fast move back to the base camp where the unequaled American weapons can easily defend the wounded, Lt. Dan among them.
Clifford, finally, returns State Side after a brief stay in a Vietnamese hospital and then in Japan. He requests to reenter the United States through Washington to see a state that he has never seen before. The recollection of this incursion, across the state lines of Washington, brings more excitement than when he nearly died in a shallow ditch.
When Clifford answers questions about his feelings following the draft notice, he answers with the logical sense that acknowledges the events as unalterable. These occurrences can not be changed; only dealt with.
Clifford now regards his enlistment for military service in Vietnam as one of the greatest decisions he ever made. Dan Clifford currently uses his organizational skills as a public administrator in Wayne County, Michigan. He still speaks with an uncommonly calm tone many might consider boring if his stories did not contain such exciting events.
Sources:
Lieutenant Dan Clifford- (248)393-80XX
https://www.infantry.army.mil/ocs/
http://www.vietnamembassy-usa.org/learn_about_vietnam/geography/regions_and_climate/
In 1967, one such individual, Dan Clifford, receives the notification of conscription that forever changes his life. The United States Army requires his mandatory military service as a defender of democracy. Clifford utilizes his recently obtained degree to enter the Officer Candidate School (OCS). OCS molds the intelligent man, edifying him into a specially trained infantry officer qualified to lead men to, potentially, death. Over three years, Clifford prepares to lead a detachment of his countrymen against an experienced and beguiling enemy concealed in dense jungles, cities and villages.
In February of ’70, Clifford arrives at his base camp near the Cambodian boarder with two weapons, a gun and the rank of Lieutenant, he effectively contributes to the deracination of localized Viet Kong by utilizing both. Often platoons reject newly transferred individuals but Lt. Dan fits in seamlessly with his men while still maintaining the distance necessary to effectively command.
.When three of his men lose their lives during an ambush Lt. Dan, detached and rational, acknowledges their deaths but exhibits no feeling of loss. He risks the lives of the entire platoon if he losses his preparedness and, therefore, his detachment saves the platoon from confusion. The other platoon members also, generally, refrains from sentimentally discussing the deaths. The soldiers have a difficult and stressful duty to their country.
Lt. Dan’s platoon often exemplifies the coherent force necessary to survive. The levelheaded rational Lieutenant commands the group of 25 with a surreal calmness he exhibits while discussing the events that excite listeners.
Internal threats to the platoon quickly attract Lt. Dan’s attention. When three soldiers endanger the lives of the platoon by smoking marijuana in a combat zone. Lt. Dan brings discipline quickly to insure no future dangers manifest during skirmishes.
Lt. Dan receives a message ordering the platoon to move out for their first of many Cambodian Incursions. The command comes directly from the president, dated April 25, 1970, only a few days later would this order contribute in the deaths of nine and the wounding of four at Kent State University on May 4, 1970. Lt. Dan’s platoon belongs to the 25th infantry that spear heads the new offensive, Cambodian Campaign.
June of ’70 Lt. Dan’s platoon enters the most deadly ambush organized by the Viet Kong against their platoon since arriving in the combat zone. Bullets whizz through the air inches above the dry river bed. Lt. Dan and his platoon use for cover while spraying bullets in random directions praying to his a concealed enemy. Lt. Dan begins to give his order indicating the defensive strategy. Suddenly, a grenade explodes enveloping Lt. Dan with shrapnel. The subsequent wounds render his arm useless for the rest of his combat career. Nevertheless, the collected commander with a robotic sense of logical duty to the platoon continues his role without showing signs of fear, that he claims never crossed his mind. The means of survival and death we his only thoughts. Lt. Dan acts quickly as the incoming fire worsens, he calls in an air strike. Excitement rushes through his mind in anticipation of witnessing his first close air support assault. The massive 2000 lbs bombs explode on the enemy positions. The blasts shake the earth thousands of feet away. Lt. Dan looks up in anticipation to see the plane that brought the earthquake. The jets have already come and gone, delivering their awesome destruction with the efficiencies that represent the antipode of most battles in the Vietnamese and Cambodian wilderness. The Viet Kong disappear back into the jungle to hide in their tiny passageways of a labyrinth that may have opens within a few hundred feet of their position., Lt. Dan orders the platoon to prepare for a fast move back to the base camp where the unequaled American weapons can easily defend the wounded, Lt. Dan among them.
Clifford, finally, returns State Side after a brief stay in a Vietnamese hospital and then in Japan. He requests to reenter the United States through Washington to see a state that he has never seen before. The recollection of this incursion, across the state lines of Washington, brings more excitement than when he nearly died in a shallow ditch.
When Clifford answers questions about his feelings following the draft notice, he answers with the logical sense that acknowledges the events as unalterable. These occurrences can not be changed; only dealt with.
Clifford now regards his enlistment for military service in Vietnam as one of the greatest decisions he ever made. Dan Clifford currently uses his organizational skills as a public administrator in Wayne County, Michigan. He still speaks with an uncommonly calm tone many might consider boring if his stories did not contain such exciting events.
Sources:
Lieutenant Dan Clifford- (248)393-80XX
https://www.infantry.army.mil/ocs/
http://www.vietnamembassy-usa.org/learn_about_vietnam/geography/regions_and_climate/
Thursday, April 26, 2007
VA Tech Shooting
The piece about Virgina Tech, Virgina Tech Struggles to Recover From Shootings, was well written and thoughtful. It must e, after all, people died. Quotations were used sparingly which I believe to be the result of the lack of hard information. Many of the students interviewed had difficulty saying any solid idea that was not completely predictable. The information about gunman is relatively obscured. Compared to other mass killers this guy seemed to have expressed himself very little.
The article does provide an interesting perspective regarding something that has been talked about and written about many thousands of times over, already.
My thoughts and prayers are with the victums.
The article does provide an interesting perspective regarding something that has been talked about and written about many thousands of times over, already.
My thoughts and prayers are with the victums.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
New Idea for Profile
I have decided to speak with Dr. McKinney, the mayor of Kalamazoo, about the economic growth and change of the city. This will be the basis for my profile.
Personal Essay Revised
“Being good in business is the most fascinating kind of art.”
-Andy Warhol
I have always had a passion for thinking of creative businesses.
For as long as I can remember my conscious thought, I have spent a sizable portion of my time thinking creatively about ideas for changing the way business is done and the products businesses produce. As I have learned more about the way business works, I have increasingly realized the economic and social benefits of these ideas.
Even at a young age my business ideas were quiet good and usually feasible. A few ideas that I have had were my own internet company, a gum company and a design for a faster computer system. These ideas represent a small sample of the many that I have had and are ones that are no longer feasible. They do highlight my ability as a creatively minded businessman. Most importantly, thinking back on these ideas gives me encouragement to continue to strive for my goal of having my own independent company that is capable of innovative change.
The first idea came after my mother signed my brother and me up for America Online. She also took me to a community college class on the internet so that I could better understand the intricate workings of the newly created and relatively unknown technology. I had been familiarized with the workings of the internet and I had a drive to utilize it to the fullest extent. I also had an increasing desire to get a high speed internet connection which drove the thought process of one of my ideas.
I worked out a scheme to get a faster internet that involved selling internet to local subscribes while purchasing high speed internet for myself. I was too young at the time to actually implement my plan despite its high probability of success. Approximately a decade after my idea there were nearly 5000 companies in the
Another idea that I had had in conjunction with the internet idea was one for providing people with a game database that would have hundreds of game titles available. Eventually there were companies that also filled this niche in the market, dashing my plans of creation. My idea for such a company came thirteen years before anyone actually implemented such a company.
Another idea that I was excited about was a gum company. The unique aspect of my gum would be additives such as caffeine. This idea was, unfortunately, patented by Wrigley’s gum company in 2001. Wrigley’s Gum Company had patented this type of gum before I had the innovative idea but it was still promising to me that I thought of it independently.
When IBM unveiled a microprocessor which used light rather than electric binary code, thereby, using another one my ideas that I had saved for the future I was disappointed but encouraged. To create a business that produced such a technologically advanced system would have been infinitely more difficult than creating gum with a little caffeine mixed in or an internet company. Nevertheless, it is representative of my creative ideas aimed at innovation that I had independently from outside influence.
I am continually having ideas like this as it is what I enjoy to think about. I like thinking about how I could improve something so that I would be happier after modifications to the system, organization, or design. During college I have learned that these innovative businesses also greatly benefit consumers and the best means for providing consumers with the innovations.
With many hundreds of ideas saved up, I hope to one day be able to create my own company. One in which I can innovate products but this is an extremely risky endeavor. Many businesses fail soon after being started, such a risk is one that my parents encouraged me not to take. It is, however, my passion.
When I entered business as my chosen major, which is in a way saying that I will be in business in 15 years, I was very hesitant. I knew that there was a significant possibility of ending up at a cubical job with an ass hole idiotic boss and very little financial breathing room. What kind of life would that be? Maybe my dad was right, maybe becoming a doctor is the way to go. It is not so bad being worked to death in the educational system until you are 32 to get a doctorate in nuclear medicine. It would not be so bad being on call for 36 hour shifts occasionally. At least I would be able to be independent and not really have a boss.
I just have to trust that my intellect, creativity and knowledge are enough to set me apart in the business world.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Profile Update
I have been made aware that I can not make up a character to give a voice for my profile. I was extremely excited about writing in the first person for a soldier recently drafted and sent to fight in the Vietnam War. O well, I will have to save that for one of my personal writing adventures.
My new character has not been picked but I think that it is extremely important to give a voice to someone that would either be interesting to read about or has no way of expressing their voice. After a chat with Roger (http://professorrog.blogspot.com/), who was extremely helpful in getting the creative ideas flowing, I have identified a few options for the people I would like to write about.
The first possible character would be a Kalamazoo homeless person. There are so many homeless people in Kalamazoo relative to anywhere that I have ever been and I believe that all of them have an interesting story. Interviews would be easily obtained but the truth of such interviews would be extremely questionable. Having spoken with homeless people on numerous occasions, as they followed me to and from local parties, I, like so many others in Kalamazoo, have heard numerous interesting stories from homeless folks. Stories of past boxing careers that ended with a knock out punch from Mike Tyson or of honorary college degree bestowed for unbelievable accomplishments. I hope to wade through the interesting nonsense to find the true, "uncut," stories of what actually happened in their lives to bring them to where they are today. It is likely that many interviews would have to be done but each would be easily obtained in exchange for a few cigarettes and some attention.
The second possible character would be a Kalamazoo high school teacher. The Kalamazoo educational system has been given a unique opportunity with the Kalamazoo Promise to provide its youth with the highest levels of education beyond secondary school. I would like to discover if there has been a change in the drive of students and teachers to achieve more by utilizing the Kalamazoo Promise. The future of the United States’ economic system is a highly educated labor forces and the seedling for the tree of knowledge that will come to symbolize the new economic might of the United States is being planted in Kalamazoo.
The third possible character would be a specialized doctor. I would like to increase the knowledge the general population has about the changes in medicine. First, technological changes are abound as medicine reaches new heights increasingly more quickly. Second, the nature of the economic structure of medicine is changing and the general population should be aware of these changes when problems become apparent in health care issues and government intervention. Third, the general mentality of doctors has been shifting with each successive generation that graduates from medical school. Forth, the pandemic problem of health care in the United States has reached deplorable levels, despite, general economic prosperity, unsurpassed levels of technology and previously unimagined levels of efficiency.
All of these characters would provide interesting and educational stories. Please leave feedback of what would be most interesting and beneficial.
My new character has not been picked but I think that it is extremely important to give a voice to someone that would either be interesting to read about or has no way of expressing their voice. After a chat with Roger (http://professorrog.blogspot.com/), who was extremely helpful in getting the creative ideas flowing, I have identified a few options for the people I would like to write about.
The first possible character would be a Kalamazoo homeless person. There are so many homeless people in Kalamazoo relative to anywhere that I have ever been and I believe that all of them have an interesting story. Interviews would be easily obtained but the truth of such interviews would be extremely questionable. Having spoken with homeless people on numerous occasions, as they followed me to and from local parties, I, like so many others in Kalamazoo, have heard numerous interesting stories from homeless folks. Stories of past boxing careers that ended with a knock out punch from Mike Tyson or of honorary college degree bestowed for unbelievable accomplishments. I hope to wade through the interesting nonsense to find the true, "uncut," stories of what actually happened in their lives to bring them to where they are today. It is likely that many interviews would have to be done but each would be easily obtained in exchange for a few cigarettes and some attention.
The second possible character would be a Kalamazoo high school teacher. The Kalamazoo educational system has been given a unique opportunity with the Kalamazoo Promise to provide its youth with the highest levels of education beyond secondary school. I would like to discover if there has been a change in the drive of students and teachers to achieve more by utilizing the Kalamazoo Promise. The future of the United States’ economic system is a highly educated labor forces and the seedling for the tree of knowledge that will come to symbolize the new economic might of the United States is being planted in Kalamazoo.
The third possible character would be a specialized doctor. I would like to increase the knowledge the general population has about the changes in medicine. First, technological changes are abound as medicine reaches new heights increasingly more quickly. Second, the nature of the economic structure of medicine is changing and the general population should be aware of these changes when problems become apparent in health care issues and government intervention. Third, the general mentality of doctors has been shifting with each successive generation that graduates from medical school. Forth, the pandemic problem of health care in the United States has reached deplorable levels, despite, general economic prosperity, unsurpassed levels of technology and previously unimagined levels of efficiency.
All of these characters would provide interesting and educational stories. Please leave feedback of what would be most interesting and beneficial.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Idea for Profile
Main Character: Robert Jones
Age: 20
Character Introduction Job:
Development Job: Artillery Job
Leisure Preference: Getting high and chilling
Hometown: Rice Lake, Wisconsin
Economic Class: 38th %tile
Opening Setting: Wisconsin
Time Period: January, 1964
Ending Opening Scene: Naslam Training Base Nevada
Time Period: February, 1964
Middle Setting: Vietnam
Time Period: End of March, 1964
Closing Setting: California
Time Period: 1972
Lesson: First, a disillusioned society that is in disagreement with its governments policies can lead to the destruction of those that are required by duty, legality, or morality to support that government. Second, present new ideas about the fighting of
Unique goals: Have a story line that provides points to supporters of
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Blog I Enjoy
I enjoy reading tuckermax.com
Many people probably have never heard of this blog but if everyone in the class has I would be willing to bet a lot of money that the majority of people would not approve of it. I don't care though, I enjoy the stories. Most of the stories that he tells are things that I would probably do. In fact, the way that I found out about the blog was when friends of mine, on spereate occasions, told me that Tucker Max reminded them of me. SO I checked it out and I liked it. When I read the stories I often feel as though I am reading about myself if I were placed in this Tucker Max's evironment.
tuckermax.com
Many people probably have never heard of this blog but if everyone in the class has I would be willing to bet a lot of money that the majority of people would not approve of it. I don't care though, I enjoy the stories. Most of the stories that he tells are things that I would probably do. In fact, the way that I found out about the blog was when friends of mine, on spereate occasions, told me that Tucker Max reminded them of me. SO I checked it out and I liked it. When I read the stories I often feel as though I am reading about myself if I were placed in this Tucker Max's evironment.
tuckermax.com
When I Write
When I write...
First: I learn about the subject matter.
Second: I consider what I want to leave my audience with.
Third: I write about the subject matter while continually considering my audience.
Forth: I check my work so that I don't sound dumb.
Fifth: I present my work.
For me the majority of the writing that I do is done in the academic field and I normally hate the subjects that I am forced to write about. This has trained me to write from perspectives that I do not really sympathize with and has resulted in a jaded mentality that does not really concern my true beliefs on the subject matter.
When I do write for leisure it is usually about things that I feel must be said to friends or collegeauges about a change in the system in which we are attempting to improve. These letters are usually filled with citations, factual information and a few subtle jokes that normally mock those that are acting as a hinderance. Most of the time, these letters are meant to bring about change in thought that I feel is long over due, and, as a result, they tend to be extremely forceful and not something most people would prefer to read for pleasure.
First: I learn about the subject matter.
Second: I consider what I want to leave my audience with.
Third: I write about the subject matter while continually considering my audience.
Forth: I check my work so that I don't sound dumb.
Fifth: I present my work.
For me the majority of the writing that I do is done in the academic field and I normally hate the subjects that I am forced to write about. This has trained me to write from perspectives that I do not really sympathize with and has resulted in a jaded mentality that does not really concern my true beliefs on the subject matter.
When I do write for leisure it is usually about things that I feel must be said to friends or collegeauges about a change in the system in which we are attempting to improve. These letters are usually filled with citations, factual information and a few subtle jokes that normally mock those that are acting as a hinderance. Most of the time, these letters are meant to bring about change in thought that I feel is long over due, and, as a result, they tend to be extremely forceful and not something most people would prefer to read for pleasure.
Writing How I Feel Right Now
A hoard of rings am I, but no fit gift for a bride; I await a sword's kiss.
Telling True Stories Blog
"Stories are the connective tissue of the human race..."
-Katherine Lanpher
The section in "Telling True Stories" describes very well why stories are so important. They allow people who were not present during certain events to experience those events. Therefore, people who are willing to tell stories are the individuals that bind people together through thought.
The effects of binding people through stories may not occur due to a disagreement with the conveyed knowledge or ideals but for those that are receptive there can be many affected aspects. People that are listening to the story may gain a moral insight, historical understanding, realization of perspective, or greater understanding of factual information.
Jesus told parables to his followers to teach them morality. This was done with increased efficiency through the use of stories. It provided an entertaining aspect to a serious subject that would be better received by listening to another individual's experiences. It is human nature to feel an empathetic connection to others.
When historians discuss the events of the past they almost always site specific examples that are accompanied by stories that are representative of the events that occurred. These help the average human's empathetic connection to be more willing to receive the knowledge that the story teller is attempting to convey. The history of the events will then be better received and less likely to be forgotten. The knowledge of the history will then be continued.
One of the most important aspect of story telling that plays into the deepest aspect of the human connection is the understanding of perspective. For some the understanding of perspective is automatic, but, for those that are less aware, stories provide the perfect tool to force people to see a varied perscpective. The story can force people to visualize the events that others endured. Stories are "the connective tissue" that links one human mind to another.
Factual information is often glossed over and seen without due appreciation when it is presented without an accompanying story. For a would be conveyer of factual information, a well told story is one of the best means to achieving the necessary thought process in the recipient of knowledge for the acquisitition of factual knowledge.
Stories are the primary reagent for catalyzing the thoughts that create "the connective tissue of the human race."
In "The Narravtive Idea," by David Halberstam, there is, what i perceived to be, a competition between print journalist and television news. I do not feel that there should be such a competition. Television is just more efficent and quicker. It is not as though journalism has been taken out of the news realm or that it is no longer effective. The role has just been changed. It is time for story tellers to utilize the television aspect more as the first step in conveying knowledge. A picture is said to be worth a thousand words, let that hold true. Let the writen word be used as a means of response and communication for less pressing information. Let the written word be used as the leisure entertainment for those that never really stop thinking when the relax.
-Katherine Lanpher
The section in "Telling True Stories" describes very well why stories are so important. They allow people who were not present during certain events to experience those events. Therefore, people who are willing to tell stories are the individuals that bind people together through thought.
The effects of binding people through stories may not occur due to a disagreement with the conveyed knowledge or ideals but for those that are receptive there can be many affected aspects. People that are listening to the story may gain a moral insight, historical understanding, realization of perspective, or greater understanding of factual information.
Jesus told parables to his followers to teach them morality. This was done with increased efficiency through the use of stories. It provided an entertaining aspect to a serious subject that would be better received by listening to another individual's experiences. It is human nature to feel an empathetic connection to others.
When historians discuss the events of the past they almost always site specific examples that are accompanied by stories that are representative of the events that occurred. These help the average human's empathetic connection to be more willing to receive the knowledge that the story teller is attempting to convey. The history of the events will then be better received and less likely to be forgotten. The knowledge of the history will then be continued.
One of the most important aspect of story telling that plays into the deepest aspect of the human connection is the understanding of perspective. For some the understanding of perspective is automatic, but, for those that are less aware, stories provide the perfect tool to force people to see a varied perscpective. The story can force people to visualize the events that others endured. Stories are "the connective tissue" that links one human mind to another.
Factual information is often glossed over and seen without due appreciation when it is presented without an accompanying story. For a would be conveyer of factual information, a well told story is one of the best means to achieving the necessary thought process in the recipient of knowledge for the acquisitition of factual knowledge.
Stories are the primary reagent for catalyzing the thoughts that create "the connective tissue of the human race."
In "The Narravtive Idea," by David Halberstam, there is, what i perceived to be, a competition between print journalist and television news. I do not feel that there should be such a competition. Television is just more efficent and quicker. It is not as though journalism has been taken out of the news realm or that it is no longer effective. The role has just been changed. It is time for story tellers to utilize the television aspect more as the first step in conveying knowledge. A picture is said to be worth a thousand words, let that hold true. Let the writen word be used as a means of response and communication for less pressing information. Let the written word be used as the leisure entertainment for those that never really stop thinking when the relax.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Turning Nothing into Something
“Being good in business is the most fascinating kind of art.”
-Andy Warhol
I have always had business on the mind.
The first memory I can recall having for a viable business plan came when I was in second grade. My mom had just signed us up for America Online, the internet access program.
In 1992, very few people really understood what the internet was. So my mom made me take a class at the community college with her to learn about the internet.
At first, my brother and I just used the internet to go into sex related chat rooms and tell 25 year old ladies that we wanted to “cyber”. After a few months, the Cybercool (me) and Cyberfire (my brother) screen names were banned from just about every AOL chat room.
Then we discovered computer games. We thought that these were just the most amazing things ever made but they were terrible to play on the slow dial up connection. We began to scheme and plan to get a high speed internet connection.
In 1992, there were no commercial DSL or cable internet connections available. If someone wanted to get something faster than dial up they had to invest in a T1 connection that would cost $1000 per month (too much for video games).
Our solution to this dilemma was simple, be the people that sell internet. We knew that there were only two companies selling internet in our region at this time, America Online and Prodigy and they charged $19.99 and $12.99 per month, respectively, in 1992. We knew that we could sell internet for $5 per month and easily find at least 20 people to purchase the internet connection from us.
A T1 connection is capable of supporting 28 dial up users, all downloading at maximum speed, at once. Not everyone would be online at the same time and people would not be constantly downloading. Therefore, this was a viable business plan.
There were numerous advantages gained from purchasing dial up internet access from a local provider rather than a large corporation. First, the majority of the decreased speed of dial up was caused by the distance that the connection needed to travel over the dual copper wires that made up the old phone network. If that distance was only across town rather than across the state the connection would be much faster. Second, paying $5 per month is better than pay $12.99 or $19.99 per month.
All that was required to give someone internet access at this time was to have a phone line that people could dial into and a computer that was already connected to the internet that could answer the phone call with a modem.
My brother and I subscribe to the mentality “if we like it then everyone will probably like it”. While examining our goals we realized the reason we had thought this entire thing out was to play video games. We added the final change to the plan, the cherry on top, a game database.
A game database would make more money. It would attract customers that would want access to thousands of games and they could be charged a small fee for each game they downloaded. At this time games were tiny, even on dial up they could be downloaded in less than an hour or so.
In 2002, ten years after our plan, there were approximately 5,000 businesses that followed the exact business plan of purchasing high speed internet and selling it to dial up users. In 2006, three companies were created that allowed people access to a database of videogames. An example is gamefly.com.
This was intended to be a personal essay but my brother and I are very closely related on the subject of business. Both of us are constantly having innovative plans for businesses that are not necessarily spawned out of the goal of making money but from the need to fix a problem that we have.
I am continually having ideas like this as it is what I enjoy to think about. I like thinking about how I could improve something so that I would be happier after modifications to the system, organization, or design.
For most of my life my thoughts have gone back to this type of thought process without a conscious decision. When I was in college and I began learning about the way the business world actually worked and grew, I knew that was what I wanted to do.
When I entered business as my chosen major, which is in a way saying that you will be in business in 15 years, I was very hesitant. I knew that there was a significant possibility of ending up at a cubical job with an ass hole idiotic boss and very little financial breathing room. What kind of life would that be? Maybe my dad was right, maybe becoming a doctor is the way to go. It is not so bad being worked to death in the educational system until you are 32 to get a doctorate in nuclear medicine. It would not be so bad being on call for 36 hour shifts occasionally. At least I would be able to be independent and not really have a boss.
I just have to trust that my intellect, creativity and knowledge are enough to set me apart in the business world.
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