I'm originally from the lower Rio Grande Valley. A place in the USA where the weather is always between 80 to 100 degrees year round. Christmas was celebrated with shorts and a t-shirt. Snow was an extreme rarity.
When I moved to Austin, over 11 years ago, I thought the weather would be a bit more pleasant. I was half right. The winters are comfortable; however, the summers are aweful.
Phoenix has the dry hot air. Central Texas has the humid kind. The heat weighs on a body. The air conditioner seems to be running to keep the house cool at 78 degrees. And this is only June.
What will July bring? Usually August is the worst time of year. Will we be seeing 30 plus days of no rain like the last couple of years? Yuck!
Similar to this cartoon, perhaps I should dress lighter for work. All I have are dark clothing. Maybe I should switch to dress shorts and an oxford shirt and tie. I could start a new trend. Although, I'm not sure how my boss will take that.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Michael Jackson Dies
This is an absolute surprise. The global icon I grew up listen to passed away at age 50. He suffered a cardiac arrest earlier this afternoon at his home in Los Angeles, California.
Despite his eccentricities, his contributions in music, choreography, and his humanitarian outreach will not be forgotten.
Despite his eccentricities, his contributions in music, choreography, and his humanitarian outreach will not be forgotten.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Father's Day
Yesterday was Father's Day, and the weekend couldn't have been better.
On Saturday, while my son was with his grandparents, my wife mowed the lawn, and to be honest, she did an amazing job. She even edged with an electric weedeater.
We spent our Sunday at Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels. With our five year old boy, we rode several water rides throughout the day. He couldn't decided on his favorite ride, towards the end of the day. Mine was the Congo River, which is still under improvements.
The evening ended with a great spaghetti with meatballs meal prepared by my wife. The dinner couldn't be more perfect.
On Saturday, while my son was with his grandparents, my wife mowed the lawn, and to be honest, she did an amazing job. She even edged with an electric weedeater.
We spent our Sunday at Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels. With our five year old boy, we rode several water rides throughout the day. He couldn't decided on his favorite ride, towards the end of the day. Mine was the Congo River, which is still under improvements.
The evening ended with a great spaghetti with meatballs meal prepared by my wife. The dinner couldn't be more perfect.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Facing the Job Market
When is the economy going to get better? Usually around this time, if you are like me, combing the help wanted ads are a must during a Sunday morning. However, the job classified have been a joke.
One column for Professional? What's the deal? Where are the jobs?
Job searching use to be fun. The job classified were filled with help wanted ads. Submitting applications became the norm. A call or two was thrilling. An interview was unbelievable. An offer was amazing.
Let us rewind nine years. I was about 24 years old. I had barely met my wife. I was about to finish graduate school. The ads were filled with promising positions. The job market was hot. Employers were offering good salaries. The ultimate decision came down to the employee to determine whether a job in DC outweighted a job in Austin.
Fastforward nine years. After being married for over five years, with a graduate degree, the ads are slim to nothing. The job market is cold. Employers are wanting to weather the storm and hold off on hiring. If a position is offered, expect a lower-than-expected salary. Now the decision lays on the employer and the company as to whether adding an addition person will make or break the company.
In a previous blog (HERE), I discussed a recent cartoon editorial of baby boomers. In it I argued that baby boomers should begin to train their subbordinates in order for a smooth transition for the organization. Shy of asking baby boomers to retire, because of the recognition of their contribution to the organization.
Honestly, if we were to step back and view this situation on a macro-perspective, we would see a society of an older professional group. However, a vested career in an organization should have a limit; shouldn't it?
The average employee with tenure in an organization may have the equivalent productivity of a middle-management (mid-level) employee. The difference? The employee with the tenure's salary is probably twice of that of a mid-level employee.
Again, terminating our senior level employees may not be the answer. However, it should be a practice within an organization to train and prepare mid-level employees for the possible challenges they may face if they indeed decide to retire and leave an agency.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Las Vegas Survival Guide For Men Version 2
I figured it may be time to update this guide, since the economy has changed. Although much of the information will be constant, there will be some items that I have decided to change or edit. If you'd like to visit the old version, you can go here.
As a introduction, I have been to Vegas practically twice a year since I was born. That's about 33 years of visiting the City of Lights. Or at least the Las Vegas Strip.
If visiting Las Vegas for the first time, it may be best to stay on the strip and enjoy the attractions, the people, and the entertainment.
Of course, this guide is more for men; although, it is well overdue for a couple's guide or a family's guide to Vegas. I promise I'll put one together within the few weeks.
LAS VEGAS SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR MEN
1. Make sure you have at least $800 for your trip--if you plan to gamble, you should reserve an extra $200 to $400. Depending on where you depart, low cost air flights will probably run between $300 and $500. A decent hotels along the Strip and Fremont Street will cost between $100 and $150 a night. Hotels off the Strip will be significantly cheaper. Cab rides and other fares will run about $20 to $30 per trip--don't forget tipping money. The $9.99 filet mignon or the all-you-can-eat-buffets are most common off the Strip. Expect to pay $40 to $100 a day on food and drinks, and if you are planning to experience the Vegas nightlife, set aside an extra $100.
I'll provide a simple solution to help offset the cost for your Vegas trip below.
2. Plan at least three months in advance. A Vegas trip takes planning, and the longer you give yourself the better experience you'll have. Visit the various travel websites to help plan your trip such as: Vegas.com, Orbitz.com, or Travelocity.com. Use these sites as sources for comparison. Often, it may be slightly cheaper to make reservations at the airline's website or the individual hotel's website.
3. How long should I stay? For me, three days in Vegas is enough. Any more is just too long. I'd recommend flying into Vegas either on Monday or Tuesday, and fly out Wednesday or Thursday. You might also find better deals during the week. If you are planning to experience the nightlife, you might want to consider working in a Friday or Saturday on your trip schedule.
4. Where to stay? It all depends on how much you are willing to pay for a room and what you want to do in Vegas. Before making reservations at a hotel, take into consideration that you'll only use the room to sleep and shower. The majority of the time you'll be in the casino or visiting the various attractions. Staying along the Las Vegas Strip will run about $100 to $150 a night, at a decent hotel; although staying at a much older hotel or off-the-Strip may save you a few bucks.
The benefit of staying along the Strip is that all the attractions are within walking distance. Plus, the nightclubs and first class restaurants are found along the Strip. However, everything along the Strip can be a bit pricy. For example, expect to pay $25 for a meal at the hotel. You'll probably spend as much for a buffet as well.
The hotels along Fremont Street are slightly cheaper. You'll probably find a hotel room for less than $100 a night. Meals are much cheaper too. You'll probably find casino tables with a minimum bet of $3 compared to the $5 minimum bet tables along the Strip; of course, minimum bets do increase after noon. However, if you stay along Fremont Street, expect a $20 cab ride to the Strip.
5. Find a group of guys to invite. Here is a simple solution on how you can save money and have a great experience in Vegas. Find a few close friends to go to Vegas. From personal experience, a group of 4 to 6 works best. Any more may be too chaotic. With a group of friends, you will be able to split room costs, cab fares, and even meals. Going out in a group can make things fun. Of course, you'll probably have some wanting to gamble on the tables while others may want to play the slots or watch a game at the Sports Book, but at least you are within a few 100 yards from each other.
Unless you think you can take on the task, select one of your friends to be the trip planner. The planner is responsible for finding the flight to Vegas, reserving the hotel rooms, and making sure everyone is on the plane the day of departure.
6. Don't expect to win. If you are only wanting to go to Vegas to make some money on gambling, then maybe you shouldn't go. The chances of coming back with money is extremely slim. In other words, expect to lose. If you do come back with some extra cash, then good for you.
Accept that there are a few of us who are lucky in nature. My dad and wife are perfect examples. They sit on a slot machine, play a few dollars and win. Whereas, I sit and play a slot machine, a game of mere chance, and lose a couple of $20s.
If you do want to take a chance on slots, then I'd recommend playing the quarter machines. You'll have the option of selecting playing 25, 50, 75, $1, or $1.25. The more you bet, the better the payout. Once you hit a big payout, cash out and move onto a new machine. The best time to play slots is late at night. The best slots are those at or near the corners--they are played the most.
The tables may provide a better payout than the slot machines. Similar to slot machines and the roulette wheel, tables are based on chance; however, there is a bit of skill involved. If you do plan to take a chance on the tables and if you are a beginner, like me, then try Blackjack. It is probably one of the simplest game to learn. But don't expect to win. Play the tables for the fun and not for the profit.
If you are on a budget, visit O'Sheas on the Strip. It's between the Imperal Palace and the Flamingo Hotel. Tables are between $5 to $10 minimum bets, and the facility homes fast food restaurants such as Burger King and Subway.
7. Take a bottle of liquor (optional). Although the casinos will bring you complementary drinks to their playing guests, it may be a good idea to pack a bottle--drinks purchased in Vegas hotels, clubs, and bars can cost between $6.50 to $20. Some stores sell liquor that come in plastic bottles. This is quite convenient since glass can break if packed in luggage. If you do decide to pack liquor, consider placing the bottle in a gallon storage lock bag and between clothes. However, if you feel uncomfortable doing this, then you can always purchase a bottle at the hotel gift shop--although, the cost may be twice as much.
8. Pack your best clubwear. Dress to impress.Vegas is full of beautiful people. Guys are well chiseled and dressed in expensive wear; and the girls are fit and gorgeously posh. These nocturnal beauties can be found at the various nightclubs along the Strip dancing until daybreak. So, pack your best clothes and prepare to let loose. If you don't have any clubwear, don't worry. There are over a thousand stores in Vegas that will help you dress for the night.
Visit Rain Nightclub at the Palms Resort and Hotel. The entertainment is spectacular. Other places you may want to visit are Tryst Nightclub at the Wynn, Pure Nightclub at Caesar's Palaces, Jet at the Mirage Hotel, and the Mix Lounge at Mandalay Bay. These are only a few I've had the privilege of visiting in the past few years. Vegas if full of nightclubs. Best thing to do is ask the bellman for suggestions.
9. Don't over pack. Take luggage no larger than 24" x 16" x 10". If it's small enough, you might be able to carry-on your bag.
10. Make sure to tip. If you tip generously, you'll get special treatment. Trust me.
If taking a taxi from the airport, the standard is $1 per luggage. The same goes for the bellman who helps you carry your luggage to and from the guest room.
If you take a taxi any place, round to the highest 5. For example, if the cab ride costs $16.25, then tip the guy $3.75. Basically, hand him a $20 bill and tell him to keep the change.
If you are served complementary drinks while you play, always tip the waitress well. The more you tip, the faster she'll return with another drink. Two dollars is a good start per drink.
11. Get VIP guest cards to a nightclub. It wouldn't be a bad idea to get VIP passes to a club before arriving to Las Vegas. There is a cost, but it does beat standing in line. If you want even faster access, then try tipping the bouncer. If you want first class service, consider purchasing a table at the club. Tables come with an alcohol decanter and mixers. However, prices for tables may reach over a $1000.
12. Watch your wallet. The last thing you want is your wallet stolen in Vegas. There are plenty of pickpockets ready to strike. The best solution is to carry your wallet in your front pockets and carry the cash you need. Avoid carrying too many credit cards in your wallet. All you really need is one. If you do notice a suspecious individual, turn and look straight at him.
When going to a club, don't bother taking your wallet. Take the cash you need, your ID, and a credit card for emergencies. Leave your wallet in the room--some places provide a lock safe in the guest rooms. Dance clubs can be extremely crowded with people, and a perfect opportunity for thieves.
13. Take caution of call girls. First of all, I've never purchased service from a call girl in the many years I've visited Vegas, and I never will. However, I thought I should include it as a survival tip.
There are plenty of call girls in Vegas, and if you're looking for them, you'll notice them wandering the casino bars or playing slot machines. Some can be found dancing in the night clubs hunting for a client. They are the girls who look as if they just returned from RAVE or Charlotte Russe. The more mature and classy ladies are found at high-end bars.
One important thing to point out is that prostitution is illegal in Vegas, so take caution if you are planning to purchase service. Also, consider that the call girls know this profession is illegal. They will only flirt with guys with an alcoholic drink--undercover cops don't drink on the job. They'll wander off if you ask too many questions.
If you do choose to seek service from a call girl, please use protection.
14. Strip joints are pricey. Vegas has strip joints galore. If you are looking for the best strip joints, ask the bellman or the taxi driver; however, some taxis have agreements with certain gentlemen's clubs--they get a cut out of your admission fee.
If you do plan to visit a gentlemen's club, prepare to pay at least a $20 entrance fee. Some of the better strip joints charge more. Lap dances are about $20s. If you want something more, the dancers will provide you a fee structure. For example, at one strip club, for $400 you can get a private guest room for an hour.
Be cautious of the various schemes dancers may pull. If you aren't interested in a dance, let them know. If they insist, excuse yourself and leave. They'll be gone by the time you return, and your reputation of being cheap will be shared with the other dancers.
If you are planning to have a drink, expect to pay $20. Water usually runs the same price. Tap water is never given.
15. Go to a Las Vegas show. Vegas is filled with lots of Vegas shows. Shows run about $100 a person. I'd suggest making reservations ahead of time in order to get good seats.
If you are in the mood for a show, Folies Bergere, The Rat Pack is Back, and a Cirque du Soleil show are some to consider.
16. Watch the Bellagio Dancing Fountains. Want to feel like Ocean's Eleven? Check out the dancing fountains outside the Bellagio. The sight is amazing.
If you are able to, make reservations at Mon Ami Gabi at the Paris Hotel, across the street from the Bellagio. Ask for a seat on the patio.
17. Use the monorail. If you prefer to walk the Strip and experience all the sights by foot, then great; however, there is a monorail that provides service between the hotels along the Strip and out to the Las Vegas Hilton.
For $40 you can purchase an unlimited three-day pass. This is actually a good price, only if you plan to use the monorail.
18. Fly out late. Make sure you plan your departure time towards the evening that way you can enjoy the day shopping for souvenirs. Hotels usually offer their guests bell service where they will store and save your luggage. Remember to tip or your bags may be "accidently" lost.
19. Have fun. Don't go to Vegas to strike gold. It'll probably not happen for you. Accept it. Go to Vegas, spend money, and ENJOY!
As a introduction, I have been to Vegas practically twice a year since I was born. That's about 33 years of visiting the City of Lights. Or at least the Las Vegas Strip.
If visiting Las Vegas for the first time, it may be best to stay on the strip and enjoy the attractions, the people, and the entertainment.
Of course, this guide is more for men; although, it is well overdue for a couple's guide or a family's guide to Vegas. I promise I'll put one together within the few weeks.
LAS VEGAS SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR MEN
1. Make sure you have at least $800 for your trip--if you plan to gamble, you should reserve an extra $200 to $400. Depending on where you depart, low cost air flights will probably run between $300 and $500. A decent hotels along the Strip and Fremont Street will cost between $100 and $150 a night. Hotels off the Strip will be significantly cheaper. Cab rides and other fares will run about $20 to $30 per trip--don't forget tipping money. The $9.99 filet mignon or the all-you-can-eat-buffets are most common off the Strip. Expect to pay $40 to $100 a day on food and drinks, and if you are planning to experience the Vegas nightlife, set aside an extra $100.
I'll provide a simple solution to help offset the cost for your Vegas trip below.
2. Plan at least three months in advance. A Vegas trip takes planning, and the longer you give yourself the better experience you'll have. Visit the various travel websites to help plan your trip such as: Vegas.com, Orbitz.com, or Travelocity.com. Use these sites as sources for comparison. Often, it may be slightly cheaper to make reservations at the airline's website or the individual hotel's website.
3. How long should I stay? For me, three days in Vegas is enough. Any more is just too long. I'd recommend flying into Vegas either on Monday or Tuesday, and fly out Wednesday or Thursday. You might also find better deals during the week. If you are planning to experience the nightlife, you might want to consider working in a Friday or Saturday on your trip schedule.
4. Where to stay? It all depends on how much you are willing to pay for a room and what you want to do in Vegas. Before making reservations at a hotel, take into consideration that you'll only use the room to sleep and shower. The majority of the time you'll be in the casino or visiting the various attractions. Staying along the Las Vegas Strip will run about $100 to $150 a night, at a decent hotel; although staying at a much older hotel or off-the-Strip may save you a few bucks.
The benefit of staying along the Strip is that all the attractions are within walking distance. Plus, the nightclubs and first class restaurants are found along the Strip. However, everything along the Strip can be a bit pricy. For example, expect to pay $25 for a meal at the hotel. You'll probably spend as much for a buffet as well.
The hotels along Fremont Street are slightly cheaper. You'll probably find a hotel room for less than $100 a night. Meals are much cheaper too. You'll probably find casino tables with a minimum bet of $3 compared to the $5 minimum bet tables along the Strip; of course, minimum bets do increase after noon. However, if you stay along Fremont Street, expect a $20 cab ride to the Strip.
5. Find a group of guys to invite. Here is a simple solution on how you can save money and have a great experience in Vegas. Find a few close friends to go to Vegas. From personal experience, a group of 4 to 6 works best. Any more may be too chaotic. With a group of friends, you will be able to split room costs, cab fares, and even meals. Going out in a group can make things fun. Of course, you'll probably have some wanting to gamble on the tables while others may want to play the slots or watch a game at the Sports Book, but at least you are within a few 100 yards from each other.
Unless you think you can take on the task, select one of your friends to be the trip planner. The planner is responsible for finding the flight to Vegas, reserving the hotel rooms, and making sure everyone is on the plane the day of departure.
6. Don't expect to win. If you are only wanting to go to Vegas to make some money on gambling, then maybe you shouldn't go. The chances of coming back with money is extremely slim. In other words, expect to lose. If you do come back with some extra cash, then good for you.
Accept that there are a few of us who are lucky in nature. My dad and wife are perfect examples. They sit on a slot machine, play a few dollars and win. Whereas, I sit and play a slot machine, a game of mere chance, and lose a couple of $20s.
If you do want to take a chance on slots, then I'd recommend playing the quarter machines. You'll have the option of selecting playing 25, 50, 75, $1, or $1.25. The more you bet, the better the payout. Once you hit a big payout, cash out and move onto a new machine. The best time to play slots is late at night. The best slots are those at or near the corners--they are played the most.
The tables may provide a better payout than the slot machines. Similar to slot machines and the roulette wheel, tables are based on chance; however, there is a bit of skill involved. If you do plan to take a chance on the tables and if you are a beginner, like me, then try Blackjack. It is probably one of the simplest game to learn. But don't expect to win. Play the tables for the fun and not for the profit.
If you are on a budget, visit O'Sheas on the Strip. It's between the Imperal Palace and the Flamingo Hotel. Tables are between $5 to $10 minimum bets, and the facility homes fast food restaurants such as Burger King and Subway.
7. Take a bottle of liquor (optional). Although the casinos will bring you complementary drinks to their playing guests, it may be a good idea to pack a bottle--drinks purchased in Vegas hotels, clubs, and bars can cost between $6.50 to $20. Some stores sell liquor that come in plastic bottles. This is quite convenient since glass can break if packed in luggage. If you do decide to pack liquor, consider placing the bottle in a gallon storage lock bag and between clothes. However, if you feel uncomfortable doing this, then you can always purchase a bottle at the hotel gift shop--although, the cost may be twice as much.
8. Pack your best clubwear. Dress to impress.Vegas is full of beautiful people. Guys are well chiseled and dressed in expensive wear; and the girls are fit and gorgeously posh. These nocturnal beauties can be found at the various nightclubs along the Strip dancing until daybreak. So, pack your best clothes and prepare to let loose. If you don't have any clubwear, don't worry. There are over a thousand stores in Vegas that will help you dress for the night.
Visit Rain Nightclub at the Palms Resort and Hotel. The entertainment is spectacular. Other places you may want to visit are Tryst Nightclub at the Wynn, Pure Nightclub at Caesar's Palaces, Jet at the Mirage Hotel, and the Mix Lounge at Mandalay Bay. These are only a few I've had the privilege of visiting in the past few years. Vegas if full of nightclubs. Best thing to do is ask the bellman for suggestions.
9. Don't over pack. Take luggage no larger than 24" x 16" x 10". If it's small enough, you might be able to carry-on your bag.
10. Make sure to tip. If you tip generously, you'll get special treatment. Trust me.
If taking a taxi from the airport, the standard is $1 per luggage. The same goes for the bellman who helps you carry your luggage to and from the guest room.
If you take a taxi any place, round to the highest 5. For example, if the cab ride costs $16.25, then tip the guy $3.75. Basically, hand him a $20 bill and tell him to keep the change.
If you are served complementary drinks while you play, always tip the waitress well. The more you tip, the faster she'll return with another drink. Two dollars is a good start per drink.
11. Get VIP guest cards to a nightclub. It wouldn't be a bad idea to get VIP passes to a club before arriving to Las Vegas. There is a cost, but it does beat standing in line. If you want even faster access, then try tipping the bouncer. If you want first class service, consider purchasing a table at the club. Tables come with an alcohol decanter and mixers. However, prices for tables may reach over a $1000.
12. Watch your wallet. The last thing you want is your wallet stolen in Vegas. There are plenty of pickpockets ready to strike. The best solution is to carry your wallet in your front pockets and carry the cash you need. Avoid carrying too many credit cards in your wallet. All you really need is one. If you do notice a suspecious individual, turn and look straight at him.
When going to a club, don't bother taking your wallet. Take the cash you need, your ID, and a credit card for emergencies. Leave your wallet in the room--some places provide a lock safe in the guest rooms. Dance clubs can be extremely crowded with people, and a perfect opportunity for thieves.
13. Take caution of call girls. First of all, I've never purchased service from a call girl in the many years I've visited Vegas, and I never will. However, I thought I should include it as a survival tip.
There are plenty of call girls in Vegas, and if you're looking for them, you'll notice them wandering the casino bars or playing slot machines. Some can be found dancing in the night clubs hunting for a client. They are the girls who look as if they just returned from RAVE or Charlotte Russe. The more mature and classy ladies are found at high-end bars.
One important thing to point out is that prostitution is illegal in Vegas, so take caution if you are planning to purchase service. Also, consider that the call girls know this profession is illegal. They will only flirt with guys with an alcoholic drink--undercover cops don't drink on the job. They'll wander off if you ask too many questions.
If you do choose to seek service from a call girl, please use protection.
14. Strip joints are pricey. Vegas has strip joints galore. If you are looking for the best strip joints, ask the bellman or the taxi driver; however, some taxis have agreements with certain gentlemen's clubs--they get a cut out of your admission fee.
If you do plan to visit a gentlemen's club, prepare to pay at least a $20 entrance fee. Some of the better strip joints charge more. Lap dances are about $20s. If you want something more, the dancers will provide you a fee structure. For example, at one strip club, for $400 you can get a private guest room for an hour.
Be cautious of the various schemes dancers may pull. If you aren't interested in a dance, let them know. If they insist, excuse yourself and leave. They'll be gone by the time you return, and your reputation of being cheap will be shared with the other dancers.
If you are planning to have a drink, expect to pay $20. Water usually runs the same price. Tap water is never given.
15. Go to a Las Vegas show. Vegas is filled with lots of Vegas shows. Shows run about $100 a person. I'd suggest making reservations ahead of time in order to get good seats.
If you are in the mood for a show, Folies Bergere, The Rat Pack is Back, and a Cirque du Soleil show are some to consider.
16. Watch the Bellagio Dancing Fountains. Want to feel like Ocean's Eleven? Check out the dancing fountains outside the Bellagio. The sight is amazing.
If you are able to, make reservations at Mon Ami Gabi at the Paris Hotel, across the street from the Bellagio. Ask for a seat on the patio.
17. Use the monorail. If you prefer to walk the Strip and experience all the sights by foot, then great; however, there is a monorail that provides service between the hotels along the Strip and out to the Las Vegas Hilton.
For $40 you can purchase an unlimited three-day pass. This is actually a good price, only if you plan to use the monorail.
18. Fly out late. Make sure you plan your departure time towards the evening that way you can enjoy the day shopping for souvenirs. Hotels usually offer their guests bell service where they will store and save your luggage. Remember to tip or your bags may be "accidently" lost.
19. Have fun. Don't go to Vegas to strike gold. It'll probably not happen for you. Accept it. Go to Vegas, spend money, and ENJOY!
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Thursday, June 11, 2009
June 11th Evening Storm
Check out the dark skies. But more importantly, look at the charge coming from the little bush in our yard. Is it an anomaly?
Major Storms with Tornadoes
This evening we were hit by some major storms around the Austin area. There were even sightings of tornadoes touching down.
We were hit mildly. There was a lot of wind and lightning. No signs of hail or fallen tree limbs in my neighborhood.
There are reports of outages in the NW part of Austin.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
The Oregon Pony Steam Engine
This is odd. A picture I took last year received five hits today. It was taken when me and the family went on our vacation in Oregon.
The Oregon Pony Steam Engin is located at the Port of Cascade Locks about an hour east of Portland. The museum was closed, but the place had a fantastic park.
More Oregon pictures can be seen here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/14244677@N08/sets/72157605420849152/
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Baby Boomers and the Economy
This editorial cartoon by David Fitzsimmons seems to be getting a lot of visits lately. Could it be because his message is a strong one?
Let's look at this in a macro-sense. The U.S. economy is struggling. Our new graduates are going into the workforce competing fiercely against one another for low paying entry positions.
The babyboomers, my parents, who have been in the workforce are deciding to stay working and not retire--although, many are over eligible to retire. Probably they are avoiding retirement because of the economy. However, this is placing a burden on our young generation.
Those of us in middle-management positions are unable to advance, preventing others from move up the ladder, and eventually limiting openings to new employees. Put aside the office politics, this is causing stress in the job market.
Should we ask our babyboomers to retire? I wouldn't. There is a reason companies, agencies, and businesses succeed. It is because of the establishments--those individuals who have dedicated years of their lives to the profession. The foundation of a corporation is in those individuals who have been the seeds of the organization since its inception.
On the other hand, babyboomers should realize that retirement is inevitable. Passing that baton of knowledge to the next generation can help a company's legacy continue onward to success.
Let's look at this in a macro-sense. The U.S. economy is struggling. Our new graduates are going into the workforce competing fiercely against one another for low paying entry positions.
The babyboomers, my parents, who have been in the workforce are deciding to stay working and not retire--although, many are over eligible to retire. Probably they are avoiding retirement because of the economy. However, this is placing a burden on our young generation.
Those of us in middle-management positions are unable to advance, preventing others from move up the ladder, and eventually limiting openings to new employees. Put aside the office politics, this is causing stress in the job market.
Should we ask our babyboomers to retire? I wouldn't. There is a reason companies, agencies, and businesses succeed. It is because of the establishments--those individuals who have dedicated years of their lives to the profession. The foundation of a corporation is in those individuals who have been the seeds of the organization since its inception.
On the other hand, babyboomers should realize that retirement is inevitable. Passing that baton of knowledge to the next generation can help a company's legacy continue onward to success.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Returning to Vegas
It's that time of year again. The traditional trip to Vegas is four days way--a tradition that was developed four years ago.
The days are spent playing, the evenings are spent playing. The nights are spent at clubs, and the mornings are spent either playing or sleeping; however, sleeping is for the weak. Why sleep in Vegas?
The high-rollers in our group keep us entertained with suspense. While they bet $500, a friend of mine and I--the frugal of the group--bet the minimum $5 or $10.
To prepare for my trip, I have gotten my Vegas Survival Kit ready. Crown Royal, or a liquor of your choice, is a must . A drink before going out can save a bit of money. A packet of Dominican Republic Cohibas and cloves cigarettes can help relax a tourist before hitting the tables. Of course, a must inclusion are cookies and candies for those times when the blood sugar drops.
Vegas is a place I like to rejuvenate myself. Similar to my dad, I enjoy the city for its entertainment, its atmosphere, and its excitement. For more tips, visit my previous blog here.
Vegas, here we come.
Rock Rosemallow
I took this picture a few days ago from my garden. It's not much of a garden, and believe me, you wouldn't be impressed with the variety of plants I have. This one is probably one of my favorites I have, though. The pedals open during the morning and close in the afternoon. Birds, bees, and butterflies love this plant.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Tennis anyone?
This weekend, we spent most of our time outdoors...playing sports. What triggered this unusual event? Our friends suggested meeting on Sunday to hit some balls at the nearby driving range. Of course, this called for a visit to the local Academy store.
While shopping for golf supplies, we ended up at the tennis aisle. When our five year old boy noticed the tennis racquets, we decided to purchase a small one for him and visit the tennis courts. We got home, changed, and made our way to the local high school tennis courts.
It had been close to seven years since my wife and I have set foot on tennis court. Prior to being married and becoming parents, we use to spend some evenings at the tennis courts at her old apartment complex. Last night reminded us of how much fun my wife and I had pre-parenthood.
Although, it is fun spending time with our little boy on the court. Like every other five-year-old, our son expressed an interest then gave up and then regained interest again. I did manage to hit his forehead with a ball. He didn't like that much.
Today, my wife and I spent our morning at the golf driving range. It was her first time with her "new" clubs since they were given to her as a Christmas present three years ago. I hadn't been to the driving range in close to two years.
For being her first time in a very long time, my wife did very well. Hopefully, she can pick this up as a new hobby.
While shopping for golf supplies, we ended up at the tennis aisle. When our five year old boy noticed the tennis racquets, we decided to purchase a small one for him and visit the tennis courts. We got home, changed, and made our way to the local high school tennis courts.
It had been close to seven years since my wife and I have set foot on tennis court. Prior to being married and becoming parents, we use to spend some evenings at the tennis courts at her old apartment complex. Last night reminded us of how much fun my wife and I had pre-parenthood.
Although, it is fun spending time with our little boy on the court. Like every other five-year-old, our son expressed an interest then gave up and then regained interest again. I did manage to hit his forehead with a ball. He didn't like that much.
Today, my wife and I spent our morning at the golf driving range. It was her first time with her "new" clubs since they were given to her as a Christmas present three years ago. I hadn't been to the driving range in close to two years.
For being her first time in a very long time, my wife did very well. Hopefully, she can pick this up as a new hobby.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
SINE DIE
Yesterday, the Texas Legislature sine die the legislative session. What is sine die? Dallas Morning News attempts to define the latin word. Basically, the state's Constitution only allows the state's elected officials to pass legislation within 140 days. The Governor can call a "special session" if the business of the people has not been completed; which may be the case here.
A few weeks ago, several important legislation died on the House of Representatives' calendar. The House has a committee that sets bills passed out of legislative committees to be debated on the floor.
In response to the influx of the voter fraud by the elderly, minorities, and illegals, the state's Republican legislators decided to pass stringent laws to require a form of photo ID along with their voter registration card. The Republican Chair of the Calendars Committee decided to place the Voter ID bill before other important bills. Democrats called foul and decided to stall the noncontroversal calendar of bills, which was set before the regular calendar, for five days. They were successful in preventing debate of the Voter ID bill.
However, because of the Democrats' tatic, legislators had to find other bills to amend and piggyback and save their bills that were casualties of the Voter ID debacle. Some succeeded. Many caused other bills to collapse due to non-germane amendments.
Five state agencies were among the casualties of the last couple of weeks of the legislative session. On September 2010, the state's transportation department, insurance department, racing commission, affortable housing corporation, and the office of public insurance counsel, will be shut down. One option that is being widely discussed is a possible "Special Session."
The Governor of the State would have to call a session by proclamation on particular issue. In this case, he'd have to call a special session on the continuation of these state agencies. However, if History teaches us anything, the Governor can call legislators back to Austin and tackle other issues, such as Voter ID.
Nonetheless, for now, SINE DIE.
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