There is a secret in Evansville. It is a secret that many of the bloggers know. It is a secret that every weightlifter and athlete knows. It is a secret that every musician or guitar player knows. What is this secret?
What is the number 1 Academic Goal of the Evansville School District for the 2005-2006 school year?
The answer is: (drum roll) To Improve Student Writing.
At the recent Evansville School Board meeting it was explained that the district is implementing the 6+1 traits writing methodology. The rationale: "The State and ACT Test scores indicate need for improvement in writing. Improvement in writing has been shown to improve performance in other academic areas."
It is clear that in reviewing the traffic statistics for the Evansville Observer that our local bloggers are doing their best to improve the average time spent writing per day for Evansville. Some bloggers have barely taken time to sleep in their effort to increase that average. I commend them. Others need to begin writing however. The bloggers can't do it all. It is time for students to start their engines.
Over at the weight room, that's door #26, the lifters learn that you have to train every day to be a champion. In music, you learn to sing and train your voice--every day-- to be a champion singer. In guitar playing, you aint going to be a champion if you don't play every day. Ok... it's a passion so it aint no problem. The drummers...well...they saw "Blue Man Group.".. they know... The point is. It's the same rule. " Every day. "
I have challenged some of the local bloggers to watch to see when after writing every day to note and then email me when they begin writing the stories in their sleep..... When, after listing the topics on a note card, the stories just come and are ready in the morning. The bloggers have been a little defiant. They have said "If you train like that every day on ANYTHING you would be changed. "
Yes
That is the secret
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Refelctions on "Mr. and Mrs. Smith"--the movie; On marriage...and the Open Meeting Law
Recently we've had a debate in our family. After viewing "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" staring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, I theorized that this indeed was the perfect marriage. Rough in the beginning. O.K. very rough. And then in the end it is just perfect ballet.
My middle daughter, who wishes to remain anonymous, objected strenuously. She is a psychology major and I inquired whether the textbooks describe the marital bond as similar to that of Brad and Angelina. "Heavens no, dad. Are you saying that marriage is like the elevator scene where she nearly kills Brad?"
"Yes," I replied. "That is so real." "The only part that seems too long is the scene at the end where they move in perfect harmony with the machine guns killing all the enemy. Without even a nick or scratch from flying fragments. I am still waiting for that in real life.
Recently "Fred" has written about what he learned about the "open meeting" law at a recent municipal conference for new aldermen. He says:
"One thing I'm learning is that the requirements of open-ness and transparency in local government gives rise to a general slowness in getting things done. For example, alders can almost never have private conversations among themselves about issues. The monthly meetings, held in the public eye, are where we must discuss things before coming to decisions. That's to protect us from accusations of "secret deals" etc, and to ensure that you the citizens have access to the decision-making process."
So, as a matter of debate, I would propose that meetings in our fair city should resemble the relationship of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie during most of the movie----with wild differences of thought that are aired---but rather in public not in private.
If one ever sees orchestrated movement in perfect harmony we will know that something is wrong--terribly wrong. It is only an absolute miracle if all alders could agree in the normal happening of things on anything, and then probably only if they had chatted in private before the meeting or something. Heaven forbid.
So there it is. "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" the movie and the politics. If we ever see perfect harmony, perfect lawyering, perfect grant proposals, perfect public works and perfect dancing with machine guns----or perfect harmony in voting---we will know.
Now. Who is the Brad Pitt? O.K. you all can fight about it.
My middle daughter, who wishes to remain anonymous, objected strenuously. She is a psychology major and I inquired whether the textbooks describe the marital bond as similar to that of Brad and Angelina. "Heavens no, dad. Are you saying that marriage is like the elevator scene where she nearly kills Brad?"
"Yes," I replied. "That is so real." "The only part that seems too long is the scene at the end where they move in perfect harmony with the machine guns killing all the enemy. Without even a nick or scratch from flying fragments. I am still waiting for that in real life.
Recently "Fred" has written about what he learned about the "open meeting" law at a recent municipal conference for new aldermen. He says:
"One thing I'm learning is that the requirements of open-ness and transparency in local government gives rise to a general slowness in getting things done. For example, alders can almost never have private conversations among themselves about issues. The monthly meetings, held in the public eye, are where we must discuss things before coming to decisions. That's to protect us from accusations of "secret deals" etc, and to ensure that you the citizens have access to the decision-making process."
So, as a matter of debate, I would propose that meetings in our fair city should resemble the relationship of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie during most of the movie----with wild differences of thought that are aired---but rather in public not in private.
If one ever sees orchestrated movement in perfect harmony we will know that something is wrong--terribly wrong. It is only an absolute miracle if all alders could agree in the normal happening of things on anything, and then probably only if they had chatted in private before the meeting or something. Heaven forbid.
So there it is. "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" the movie and the politics. If we ever see perfect harmony, perfect lawyering, perfect grant proposals, perfect public works and perfect dancing with machine guns----or perfect harmony in voting---we will know.
Now. Who is the Brad Pitt? O.K. you all can fight about it.
"The Story of the Zen Master," or; How Things Change
Once upon a time a Zen Master and his favorite student were climbing a huge mountain. Yes, it was a very hot day. The climb was getting pretty difficult. Pausing to take a breath, the young student asked the teacher, " Master, how does one reach enlightenment?"
The Zen Master paused and then ----------punched the student in the mouth......When the student awakened, he reached enlightenment.
I have thought a lot about that story over the years. I remarked to a friend recently that as a human being we have the burden and responsibility to look forward to the future. Is it not prudent to plan accordingly?
"Well that's a nice theory," he replied, "but that's not how things really work. Right before HUGE change, people get REAL tired. They can't bear to think of the change to come. Whether this is at GM or anywhere. Then-----and ONLY THEN---when the crisis erupts---like Pearl Harbor---is there energy to address the challenge. All I am saying, Wolfman (he always did call me wolfman) your theory is BOGUS. Folks do not want to see. The reality is right before them, but it is too painful to see.
I guess it is the same thing with "Nirvana" or whatever------ the Zen thing. It is really not out there somewhere. It is really right in front of our noses----It's just that it takes a punch in the mouth to see it.
The Zen Master paused and then ----------punched the student in the mouth......When the student awakened, he reached enlightenment.
I have thought a lot about that story over the years. I remarked to a friend recently that as a human being we have the burden and responsibility to look forward to the future. Is it not prudent to plan accordingly?
"Well that's a nice theory," he replied, "but that's not how things really work. Right before HUGE change, people get REAL tired. They can't bear to think of the change to come. Whether this is at GM or anywhere. Then-----and ONLY THEN---when the crisis erupts---like Pearl Harbor---is there energy to address the challenge. All I am saying, Wolfman (he always did call me wolfman) your theory is BOGUS. Folks do not want to see. The reality is right before them, but it is too painful to see.
I guess it is the same thing with "Nirvana" or whatever------ the Zen thing. It is really not out there somewhere. It is really right in front of our noses----It's just that it takes a punch in the mouth to see it.
Back to the Future 2016: A Nightmare Dream
(Ed. note: Due to reader request, I have republished a noted nightmare of mine.
Alas, the nightmare might be coming true.)
Last week there were three things that came together----the school board election, watching the old version of "Back to the Future," and our neighbors having a new baby. The suspense was building on election day when I saw the pickup truck in the driveway ready to go with the babyseat ready. There is just a special look that I have picked up over the years that alerted me--maybe it was the fact that the pickup was turned around with engine near the street for fast exit.
Anyway, that night, I had a dream I was on the way home from the hospital with a newborn. We were driving a pretty exotic car so I knew it was about 2016. Just as we entered the city limits, my wife said to me, "Don't forget to stop by the school so we can drop off the baby."
Yes. In the years since 2006, with enrollments dropping, and with the need for keeping buildings filled--- and teachers employed--- there came to be a push to enlarge the notion of "It takes a whole village" to raise a child, to the mantra, "Schools raise kids--- They know better." Quickly it moved from 4 yr. old kindergarten to 3yr. old pre-kindergarten and so on. Finally when the Coca Cola contract was cancelled at several schools, "Pampers" offered the schools a special volume discount, and nobody could resist the purchasing power and knowhow of schools. Yes. Schools really did know how to raise kids from day one.
When I awoke from the dream, I realized that it was just post election trauma. Sometimes when one loses an election, there is a slight disturbance in the dream pattern. No, the school busses were running as usual. The kids were standing outside ready to go to school. What a relief. For now, parents were still parents.
Alas, the nightmare might be coming true.)
Last week there were three things that came together----the school board election, watching the old version of "Back to the Future," and our neighbors having a new baby. The suspense was building on election day when I saw the pickup truck in the driveway ready to go with the babyseat ready. There is just a special look that I have picked up over the years that alerted me--maybe it was the fact that the pickup was turned around with engine near the street for fast exit.
Anyway, that night, I had a dream I was on the way home from the hospital with a newborn. We were driving a pretty exotic car so I knew it was about 2016. Just as we entered the city limits, my wife said to me, "Don't forget to stop by the school so we can drop off the baby."
Yes. In the years since 2006, with enrollments dropping, and with the need for keeping buildings filled--- and teachers employed--- there came to be a push to enlarge the notion of "It takes a whole village" to raise a child, to the mantra, "Schools raise kids--- They know better." Quickly it moved from 4 yr. old kindergarten to 3yr. old pre-kindergarten and so on. Finally when the Coca Cola contract was cancelled at several schools, "Pampers" offered the schools a special volume discount, and nobody could resist the purchasing power and knowhow of schools. Yes. Schools really did know how to raise kids from day one.
When I awoke from the dream, I realized that it was just post election trauma. Sometimes when one loses an election, there is a slight disturbance in the dream pattern. No, the school busses were running as usual. The kids were standing outside ready to go to school. What a relief. For now, parents were still parents.
"The Honeymoon; or; "It's not like the Movies".
This past Easter, one of my daughters came home from California to visit. In chatting, she told a story of a college chum that had recently gotten engaged. The chum had explained that all throughout college she thought she was just friends of a guy, but suddenly realized after the separation of graduation that it was something more.
Her final words to my daughter were," It's not like the movies."
What a rude shock. It's like all the investment in the long genre of "Princess Bride," and all the rest has been in vain. So--I guess there is the myth of the movies and then there is the way it really is.
Come to think of it, the honeymoon is like that. It really begins earlier in the plans for the wedding. Who to invite. How to please everybody. How to pay all the bills. That process of growth from engagement to the wedding day is very real and is the first real project that a young bride and groom undertake together. (insert your own story here.)
Last night I headed off to the inaguration or installation of the new mayor of Evansville, Sandy Decker, and the new alderman. For the record, I took neither a pen nor pad of paper. I took no tape recorder. I was just going to revel in the moment. Just enjoy. Just smell the roses so to speak. I figured that this was the honeymoon period. This was a sacred time. I needed to give some distance and abstain from writing.
The oath of office was wonderful The mayor had a beautiful corsage and the new male alderman were dressed in the casual sweater look. By the time I had visualized how they might look in white sport coats and pink carnations, the oaths were completed and the first item of business was ready.
The first item seemed pretty simple. The Motion to appoint the Evansville Review the official newspaper of the city for one year. There was a brief discussion of the request for an increase from $850 to $900 per month for the contract price. There was some discussion of the long ordinance printings that had resulted in extra charges that Kelly Gildner explained in detail.
Then, out of the blue, newly elected alderman, Tony Wyse, indicated he had concerns about the objective reporting of The Review in the recent campaign. That seemed to ignite a firefight of dialogue. Gina Duwe of the Gazette reached for her pen. Alas---- I had left mine home. I could not believe that the honeymoon had been so short. Finally, right in the midst of a long letter to the editor read by Kelly Gildner, Sandy Decker did gavel for silence and called for the vote which was unanimous--for the contract. It had to be one of the most contentious unanimous votes in recent memory----by my memory anyway.
The meeting then proceeded and there was open frank discussion about conflict of interest issues, inequity of committee assignments, feelings of members regarding their assignments, etc. etc.
In short----it was frank open discussion like I have not heard much and after a good night of sleep, I find refreshing. We have a new mayor and new alderman. There is a learning curve. This is the honeymoon.
It just does not look like I thought it would.
The Observer is on the job. I promise to take pen and pencil and recorder next time. I promise.
It's not like the movies.
Her final words to my daughter were," It's not like the movies."
What a rude shock. It's like all the investment in the long genre of "Princess Bride," and all the rest has been in vain. So--I guess there is the myth of the movies and then there is the way it really is.
Come to think of it, the honeymoon is like that. It really begins earlier in the plans for the wedding. Who to invite. How to please everybody. How to pay all the bills. That process of growth from engagement to the wedding day is very real and is the first real project that a young bride and groom undertake together. (insert your own story here.)
Last night I headed off to the inaguration or installation of the new mayor of Evansville, Sandy Decker, and the new alderman. For the record, I took neither a pen nor pad of paper. I took no tape recorder. I was just going to revel in the moment. Just enjoy. Just smell the roses so to speak. I figured that this was the honeymoon period. This was a sacred time. I needed to give some distance and abstain from writing.
The oath of office was wonderful The mayor had a beautiful corsage and the new male alderman were dressed in the casual sweater look. By the time I had visualized how they might look in white sport coats and pink carnations, the oaths were completed and the first item of business was ready.
The first item seemed pretty simple. The Motion to appoint the Evansville Review the official newspaper of the city for one year. There was a brief discussion of the request for an increase from $850 to $900 per month for the contract price. There was some discussion of the long ordinance printings that had resulted in extra charges that Kelly Gildner explained in detail.
Then, out of the blue, newly elected alderman, Tony Wyse, indicated he had concerns about the objective reporting of The Review in the recent campaign. That seemed to ignite a firefight of dialogue. Gina Duwe of the Gazette reached for her pen. Alas---- I had left mine home. I could not believe that the honeymoon had been so short. Finally, right in the midst of a long letter to the editor read by Kelly Gildner, Sandy Decker did gavel for silence and called for the vote which was unanimous--for the contract. It had to be one of the most contentious unanimous votes in recent memory----by my memory anyway.
The meeting then proceeded and there was open frank discussion about conflict of interest issues, inequity of committee assignments, feelings of members regarding their assignments, etc. etc.
In short----it was frank open discussion like I have not heard much and after a good night of sleep, I find refreshing. We have a new mayor and new alderman. There is a learning curve. This is the honeymoon.
It just does not look like I thought it would.
The Observer is on the job. I promise to take pen and pencil and recorder next time. I promise.
It's not like the movies.
"On the Strong Finish', or: Why "Q" Yells "Focus" at the 2 mile mark
When my older daughters were in cross country, all the parents would be near the 2 mile mark. We all urged them to "finish strong." Q was there and always urged them to "focus, " but never said exactly on what. Anyway, one race at the golf course, my oldest, Amy, questioned my support. "What's the point, Dad? I am running terrible today; I feel awful. Who cares how I finish at this point?"
She did have a point. However, now that I have had some time to think about, like six years or so, I think the answer is that it is all in the habit of giving everything to the dream. The habit is more important than the particular time.
I think the finish might just define what a person is made of. Anyone can start a race. Most get to the half way point. The fade in the final stretch is legendary.
So, go ahead and FINISH STRONG. When I figure out the "focus" thing Q was yelling about I will write about that too.
She did have a point. However, now that I have had some time to think about, like six years or so, I think the answer is that it is all in the habit of giving everything to the dream. The habit is more important than the particular time.
I think the finish might just define what a person is made of. Anyone can start a race. Most get to the half way point. The fade in the final stretch is legendary.
So, go ahead and FINISH STRONG. When I figure out the "focus" thing Q was yelling about I will write about that too.
"Why Don't My Kids Understand?---a short Lesson in Math
Some years ago, I was bemoaning with a friend that it seemed that my kids had no clue as to where I was coming from. If men were from Mars, and women were from Venus, it was very unclear what planet my kids were from.
After listening intently, he said, "Well, I think I understand."
"Do you remember when the first time was when you really understood where your parents were coming from?"
"Oh yes," I replied. " I remember exactly. It was the momemt we brought our first born, Amy, home from the hospital at birth."
"And how old were you then?" he asked.
"I was 35."
"And how old were you when you graduated from college?"
"21", I replied.
Then he smiled and said, "Well, It took you 14 years from graduation till you had a clue, so I guess to be fair, you should at least give them that long, wouldn't you think?"
After listening intently, he said, "Well, I think I understand."
"Do you remember when the first time was when you really understood where your parents were coming from?"
"Oh yes," I replied. " I remember exactly. It was the momemt we brought our first born, Amy, home from the hospital at birth."
"And how old were you then?" he asked.
"I was 35."
"And how old were you when you graduated from college?"
"21", I replied.
Then he smiled and said, "Well, It took you 14 years from graduation till you had a clue, so I guess to be fair, you should at least give them that long, wouldn't you think?"
"The Statue and the Post"
At the entrance of The Eager Free Public Library is a very large statue. The bronze statue of Mr. Almeron Eager. The man who donated the money, $10,000 in 1907 for the library. $10,000 in 1907 dollars would be how much today? I would guess it would be over $500,000 but some of you finance pros can tell me.
Every young child points to the statue as he/she enters the library. For non-English speaking kids they also ask, "Quien es este?" In my rough Spanish I mention dinero and they understand that Mr. Eager donated it. Then they usually respond, "Gracias." Thank You.
Everyone knows about the statue. Few know the rest of the story. As The Observer, the rest of the story is what I write about.
The donation of Mr. Eager had three conditions; 1) that the library was to be "Free." That was no small matter in 1907. There were few free libraries open to all citizens. 2) The city of Evansville had to pledge to support the library out of the city budget. This was no small task. Many in town did not want the burden of this expenditure. and 3) In addition to naming the library the "Eager Free Public Library", a statute of Mr. Eager had to be placed in the entrance. Without these three conditions being met, the ownership of the library would revert to the Eager family.
So. Surprise, Surprise. When the statue arrived. It was TOO HEAVY for the library floor to support. What shock and awe. Quick thinking. If you go to the basement you will notice the pillar that is right below the statue. Without that pillar put in after the library was erected, we would never have had the statue, and all of the history that goes with it.
That is really the way it is. The statues we cannot really control in life. But beneath each statue is a pillar that supports it. Makes the fame work. As The Observer, I always pay more attention to the pillar---- Rather than the statue. The pillar is where the strength comes from. So just as in basketball we say "Be like Mike." Rather---"Be like the pillar. "
Every young child points to the statue as he/she enters the library. For non-English speaking kids they also ask, "Quien es este?" In my rough Spanish I mention dinero and they understand that Mr. Eager donated it. Then they usually respond, "Gracias." Thank You.
Everyone knows about the statue. Few know the rest of the story. As The Observer, the rest of the story is what I write about.
The donation of Mr. Eager had three conditions; 1) that the library was to be "Free." That was no small matter in 1907. There were few free libraries open to all citizens. 2) The city of Evansville had to pledge to support the library out of the city budget. This was no small task. Many in town did not want the burden of this expenditure. and 3) In addition to naming the library the "Eager Free Public Library", a statute of Mr. Eager had to be placed in the entrance. Without these three conditions being met, the ownership of the library would revert to the Eager family.
So. Surprise, Surprise. When the statue arrived. It was TOO HEAVY for the library floor to support. What shock and awe. Quick thinking. If you go to the basement you will notice the pillar that is right below the statue. Without that pillar put in after the library was erected, we would never have had the statue, and all of the history that goes with it.
That is really the way it is. The statues we cannot really control in life. But beneath each statue is a pillar that supports it. Makes the fame work. As The Observer, I always pay more attention to the pillar---- Rather than the statue. The pillar is where the strength comes from. So just as in basketball we say "Be like Mike." Rather---"Be like the pillar. "
Reflections on Family Tree Maker--the Irony
Well, it's Family Reunuion time again. Time to pack into the car and travel long distances to pot lucks. Time to reestablish all those links of Family.
Some time back I remember a tremendous surge in our family to load every precious memory into a software package known as "Family Tree Maker." In fact, we crashed several computers in the process. So much time was invested that we still have one computer that my spouse can't throw away even though we can't access the data.
Years ago, I heard of a woman who took her young son to the doctor. The son had a mysterious illness. The parents were deeply worried that it was something terminal. The doctor gently asked the woman, " Now tell me of your family medical history." The woman came to the doctor visit prepared with all sorts of notes. "Finally," she thought." all my research has paid off." And proceeded to give the doctor a thorough database of it. The doctor listened very patiently. When she had finished, the doctor gently asked, " Now please tell me of your husband's medical history. " "Well," she replied," I dont know anything about my husbands medical history or any of his relatives."
Before all you genetics gurus out there are too hard on this young woman, I would just ask you a simple question. In your family tree, in Family Tree Maker, are you compiling the history of both sides of the family or just one? In my experience, over 90% of families only consider the geneology of their parents and siblings "relevant." Interesting concept of Family. Only half of their Family Tree is ever filled out.
Ditto for the writing of history. Did you ever notice that a family history is deeply affected by who the surviving spouse is that writes the history. Yes, this is a clear argument for all you men out there to survive a little longer. It might clearly affect the way history is written.
So, as you head out on the long trip to meet the distant relatives, gaze across the car and go ahead, ask your spouse a little about the family history that you have left out of Family Tree Maker. It takes a lot of work to create a Family. It's time to begin!
Some time back I remember a tremendous surge in our family to load every precious memory into a software package known as "Family Tree Maker." In fact, we crashed several computers in the process. So much time was invested that we still have one computer that my spouse can't throw away even though we can't access the data.
Years ago, I heard of a woman who took her young son to the doctor. The son had a mysterious illness. The parents were deeply worried that it was something terminal. The doctor gently asked the woman, " Now tell me of your family medical history." The woman came to the doctor visit prepared with all sorts of notes. "Finally," she thought." all my research has paid off." And proceeded to give the doctor a thorough database of it. The doctor listened very patiently. When she had finished, the doctor gently asked, " Now please tell me of your husband's medical history. " "Well," she replied," I dont know anything about my husbands medical history or any of his relatives."
Before all you genetics gurus out there are too hard on this young woman, I would just ask you a simple question. In your family tree, in Family Tree Maker, are you compiling the history of both sides of the family or just one? In my experience, over 90% of families only consider the geneology of their parents and siblings "relevant." Interesting concept of Family. Only half of their Family Tree is ever filled out.
Ditto for the writing of history. Did you ever notice that a family history is deeply affected by who the surviving spouse is that writes the history. Yes, this is a clear argument for all you men out there to survive a little longer. It might clearly affect the way history is written.
So, as you head out on the long trip to meet the distant relatives, gaze across the car and go ahead, ask your spouse a little about the family history that you have left out of Family Tree Maker. It takes a lot of work to create a Family. It's time to begin!
"The Story of Miss Endres: or, on "Sharing Concerns"
In my earlier life, I worked in a middle sized metro hospital. Our nursing director was Ms. Endres. She was a larger than life person, with a blazing sense of humor and she had the ability to cut through to the essence of problems. She was heavy set, and at that time in frail health. As a department head, I always loved the meetings that she was present for.
One January, when the hospital was very full, and we were all at peak stress, there was a meeting of the department heads. There was a presentation by a person on a problem occuring in the surgical unit. There were personalities and staffing issues involved. Anyway, after the report, it was time for Ms. Endres to speak.
" Well," she said, "This is really just bull." If we need PR, we can always go to Eric (the PR dept) and have him paper it over, but this is health care, and we need to get to the root of the problem here. Yes, this is about a complaint, but if you look closely at the upper line on each admission to this hospital, you will see the words "Complaint/Diagnosis". So, I don't want to offend all you professionals in any way, but you really are "Complaint specialists" and the day you are not able to respond with sensitivity and speed, is the day you have burned out and need to find a different line of work. In other words, you may work miracles but you need to get through the "complaint" part first. That's the only way to work the miracle."
" So," she went on, "tomorrow I will meet with the physicians involved and with the administrator and the charge nurses involved and we will get to the bottom of this. We can solve it and will. Together as a team we can get it done."
Well, the effect in the room was as though a bolt of lightning had struck. A good bolt of lightning. Not a tornado.
Later that year, I would add the responibility of "Complaint adminstrator" to my list of duties, and had the responsibility of resolving complaints small and large, from the $1.50 pair of slippers to the larger errors. Every complaint was logged and assigned for resolution. There was a standard of 3 days for a billing error. Medical issues were handled stat, which is immediately. Because all complaints, or "concerns" ,large or small,were centrally logged, any administrator could access any concern to find the status. There was never a "I don't know but I will get back to you." There was never telephone tag. That was a route to nowhere.
At the end of the year, I presented a report. It showed that of all the "complaints". 99% were handled in the objective time frame. Less than 1/2 1% were serious and they were resolved.
More importantly, of the small complaints, some system errors were discovered that saved the hospital lots of money and changes were made in how things were done. It got to the point where my staff would ask on the phone if there was any question at all that the patient had about their bill that they did not agree with or understand. By asking and even inviting "concerns", the customers were a lot more satisfied and the process improved very noticibly. I notice many companies on the phone use this technique. They establish that you are satisfied.
Hence, I have always been interested in "Complaint mechanisms". If you click on the post, you will see one of the 1,000,000 search items for this on Yahoo. The central point of almost all these systems is that there is a central log where "concerns" are logged and resolved. Without that key ingrediant, an organization simply is not interested in resolving problems. Organizations without it are simply spinning wheels.
So, I would theorize that it is always easy to expound on how we would solve the wars far away. It is the "wars" close that are more difficult. I urge governments, school districts, and corporations to take grievance resolution seriously and implement systems to make this happen.
Posted by Evansville Observer at 11:12 AM
One January, when the hospital was very full, and we were all at peak stress, there was a meeting of the department heads. There was a presentation by a person on a problem occuring in the surgical unit. There were personalities and staffing issues involved. Anyway, after the report, it was time for Ms. Endres to speak.
" Well," she said, "This is really just bull." If we need PR, we can always go to Eric (the PR dept) and have him paper it over, but this is health care, and we need to get to the root of the problem here. Yes, this is about a complaint, but if you look closely at the upper line on each admission to this hospital, you will see the words "Complaint/Diagnosis". So, I don't want to offend all you professionals in any way, but you really are "Complaint specialists" and the day you are not able to respond with sensitivity and speed, is the day you have burned out and need to find a different line of work. In other words, you may work miracles but you need to get through the "complaint" part first. That's the only way to work the miracle."
" So," she went on, "tomorrow I will meet with the physicians involved and with the administrator and the charge nurses involved and we will get to the bottom of this. We can solve it and will. Together as a team we can get it done."
Well, the effect in the room was as though a bolt of lightning had struck. A good bolt of lightning. Not a tornado.
Later that year, I would add the responibility of "Complaint adminstrator" to my list of duties, and had the responsibility of resolving complaints small and large, from the $1.50 pair of slippers to the larger errors. Every complaint was logged and assigned for resolution. There was a standard of 3 days for a billing error. Medical issues were handled stat, which is immediately. Because all complaints, or "concerns" ,large or small,were centrally logged, any administrator could access any concern to find the status. There was never a "I don't know but I will get back to you." There was never telephone tag. That was a route to nowhere.
At the end of the year, I presented a report. It showed that of all the "complaints". 99% were handled in the objective time frame. Less than 1/2 1% were serious and they were resolved.
More importantly, of the small complaints, some system errors were discovered that saved the hospital lots of money and changes were made in how things were done. It got to the point where my staff would ask on the phone if there was any question at all that the patient had about their bill that they did not agree with or understand. By asking and even inviting "concerns", the customers were a lot more satisfied and the process improved very noticibly. I notice many companies on the phone use this technique. They establish that you are satisfied.
Hence, I have always been interested in "Complaint mechanisms". If you click on the post, you will see one of the 1,000,000 search items for this on Yahoo. The central point of almost all these systems is that there is a central log where "concerns" are logged and resolved. Without that key ingrediant, an organization simply is not interested in resolving problems. Organizations without it are simply spinning wheels.
So, I would theorize that it is always easy to expound on how we would solve the wars far away. It is the "wars" close that are more difficult. I urge governments, school districts, and corporations to take grievance resolution seriously and implement systems to make this happen.
Posted by Evansville Observer at 11:12 AM
"Why Don't They Speak English?"; or, The Story of the Pokie Little Puppy
Thursday, September 01, 2005
"Why Don't They Speak English?"; Or, The Story of the Pokie Little Puppy
Some years back, I wandered into a local store where the owner, suddenly asked me, "Mr. Woulfe, Why don't your students speak English?"
"Well," I replied, "I bet you were a great reader. Can you remember the first book you ever read?"
"I sure can," she replied. "It was The Pokie Little Puppie." "I remember it like it was just yesterday."
"Well," I asked, "Can you remember how old you were at the time?"
"Yes, I sure do remember. I was seven."
"And I bet your mother read to you each night?" "Oh yes," she replied.
"And I bet you were pretty sharp, too," I asked. "Well, I hope so," she replied.
"Well," I said, "It took you seven years and you were quite bright, so let's just wait seven years and we will see how my students are doing then."
"Why Don't They Speak English?"; Or, The Story of the Pokie Little Puppy
Some years back, I wandered into a local store where the owner, suddenly asked me, "Mr. Woulfe, Why don't your students speak English?"
"Well," I replied, "I bet you were a great reader. Can you remember the first book you ever read?"
"I sure can," she replied. "It was The Pokie Little Puppie." "I remember it like it was just yesterday."
"Well," I asked, "Can you remember how old you were at the time?"
"Yes, I sure do remember. I was seven."
"And I bet your mother read to you each night?" "Oh yes," she replied.
"And I bet you were pretty sharp, too," I asked. "Well, I hope so," she replied.
"Well," I said, "It took you seven years and you were quite bright, so let's just wait seven years and we will see how my students are doing then."
"Lessons on Renting a Limo; or the story of Mark's 40th"
"A Tipping Point--a case study" or; Mark's 40th or; Lessons on Renting a Limo
Sometimes a very small event can change a life, or even in some cases several lives. A case in point was my brother in law, Mark's 40th birthday party. A little background. I married into a very competitive family where all the brothers and male inlaws revel in competing...well..in just about everything. During our 30's we competed on cars, mortgages, fishing, power boats...etc. In fact, the guys got together each year for an annual fishing trip which we billed as really a performance review. We held meetings with secret minutes where each of us could get awards for besting the others. I remember with fondness my special award for the lowest 15yr mtg rate, which was 4.375. I still treasure the award. Anyway....
For Mark's 40th birthday, his buddy, Mert, wanted to do something special. Like a gathering of all the guys in the company and a dinner out and nightclubing and to top it off, a special limo to take them from place to place, and expecially home.
Being competitive, Mert, wanted to impress Mark with how thrifty he was and negotiated real hard on the limo. He wanted the lowest rock bottom price in the world. Finally, thrilled, he got an unbelievable deal. An older stretch Lincoln limo with special suicide doors. It was a classic, not trendy, but at the right price.
It was truly a night to remember. The meal was great. The guys were in rare form. On the way home, however, the limo driver stopped at a gas station to use the rest rooms. When the guys in the limo tried to get out of the limo, they discovered that the door handles did not work. They could not get out.
I never did get the entire story, and that is rare for The Observer. What spiritual awakening really happened back in that limo of guys. I do know that Mark was heard telling Mert " I don't ever want to hear the word "deal" again. No "bargains". Never again. Ok?"
Mark now drives a Lexis. Has a huge home on a lake. And a huge powerboat. All the best. And, when he rents a limo, he always checks the doors first.
Sometimes a very small event can change a life, or even in some cases several lives. A case in point was my brother in law, Mark's 40th birthday party. A little background. I married into a very competitive family where all the brothers and male inlaws revel in competing...well..in just about everything. During our 30's we competed on cars, mortgages, fishing, power boats...etc. In fact, the guys got together each year for an annual fishing trip which we billed as really a performance review. We held meetings with secret minutes where each of us could get awards for besting the others. I remember with fondness my special award for the lowest 15yr mtg rate, which was 4.375. I still treasure the award. Anyway....
For Mark's 40th birthday, his buddy, Mert, wanted to do something special. Like a gathering of all the guys in the company and a dinner out and nightclubing and to top it off, a special limo to take them from place to place, and expecially home.
Being competitive, Mert, wanted to impress Mark with how thrifty he was and negotiated real hard on the limo. He wanted the lowest rock bottom price in the world. Finally, thrilled, he got an unbelievable deal. An older stretch Lincoln limo with special suicide doors. It was a classic, not trendy, but at the right price.
It was truly a night to remember. The meal was great. The guys were in rare form. On the way home, however, the limo driver stopped at a gas station to use the rest rooms. When the guys in the limo tried to get out of the limo, they discovered that the door handles did not work. They could not get out.
I never did get the entire story, and that is rare for The Observer. What spiritual awakening really happened back in that limo of guys. I do know that Mark was heard telling Mert " I don't ever want to hear the word "deal" again. No "bargains". Never again. Ok?"
Mark now drives a Lexis. Has a huge home on a lake. And a huge powerboat. All the best. And, when he rents a limo, he always checks the doors first.
Do You Believe in Halloween?
Thursday, September 01, 2005
---Halloween---;Or, I believe in things Seen and Unseen; Or, Why Flip Wilson was wrong.
One of the amazing things is how all kids really get Halloween. There is no long textbook required. Kids all around the world have some sort of celebration like this.
As a youngster, in church, reciting the Creed....maybe there were some boring parts about the liturgy, but certanly not the words, "I believe in things Seen and Unseen." Yes, that was something that I could really believe in. Something I could understand at a young age.
Some think that Halloween is just about candy, just about sugar. I don't think so. Although I will grant sugar is pretty big these days.
How come when we get older it gets so difficult? So difficult to get from the Seen to the Unseen. We think of Flip Wilson. "What you see is what you get." Was Flip Wilson right?
It seems to the Observer that there is a whole lot more we get besides the obvious. Stuff we were not counting on. For better. For worse. In fact, in the holiday season, when I go back to visit with the old chums from high school and college, it used to be so easy to separate out the beauty queens and cheerleaders from the rest; So easy to know the jocks from the nerds. Not today. Seems they all look alike. It is pretty shocking.
Seems like Flip Wilson was wrong. The kids are right. You get a lot more than meets the eye. There really is Seen and Unseen.
Happy Halloween.
---Halloween---;Or, I believe in things Seen and Unseen; Or, Why Flip Wilson was wrong.
One of the amazing things is how all kids really get Halloween. There is no long textbook required. Kids all around the world have some sort of celebration like this.
As a youngster, in church, reciting the Creed....maybe there were some boring parts about the liturgy, but certanly not the words, "I believe in things Seen and Unseen." Yes, that was something that I could really believe in. Something I could understand at a young age.
Some think that Halloween is just about candy, just about sugar. I don't think so. Although I will grant sugar is pretty big these days.
How come when we get older it gets so difficult? So difficult to get from the Seen to the Unseen. We think of Flip Wilson. "What you see is what you get." Was Flip Wilson right?
It seems to the Observer that there is a whole lot more we get besides the obvious. Stuff we were not counting on. For better. For worse. In fact, in the holiday season, when I go back to visit with the old chums from high school and college, it used to be so easy to separate out the beauty queens and cheerleaders from the rest; So easy to know the jocks from the nerds. Not today. Seems they all look alike. It is pretty shocking.
Seems like Flip Wilson was wrong. The kids are right. You get a lot more than meets the eye. There really is Seen and Unseen.
Happy Halloween.
Car Care and Cardiology---a true story
Car Care and Cardiology
-
Update----
Yesterday, I had to take the green Mazda in to see if
I could get the air bag sensor light to stop flashing.
It has been a very draining couple of months with car
care expenses, so I was very aprehensive. The
estimate was about $400.
After waiting two hours, I asked what was up. The
service guy said they had put in the new air bag wheel
sensor and that the codes were still flashing and that
they would have to "Check further".
I said," No. No check further, take out the new part,
put in the old and give me my car back. Further, it is
probably a diagnosis error and I want you to cut the
labor in half."
I paced in the parking lot in 90 deg heat for 45
minutes swearing, praying and wondering what to do now
that it appeared that we would never fix the car.
Indeed, God was dead. So....I said...
"Yo...God...if you are around, big guy, I would
appreciate some help here."
Ten minutes later, Sue called telling me she was
working late. I shared my total despair.
On the way home with the car, the cell phone rang.
Sue had some words from Laura from cardiology. Laura
said to fill the gas in the car to full and force all
the air out of the tank. She had heard on "Click and
Clack" that the sensors were so sensitive that this
could set them off. I filled it up. The blinking
lights on the airbag disppeared.
Does God live? Well.... I do know when we get
our best car care from cardiology, something is up.
-
Update----
Yesterday, I had to take the green Mazda in to see if
I could get the air bag sensor light to stop flashing.
It has been a very draining couple of months with car
care expenses, so I was very aprehensive. The
estimate was about $400.
After waiting two hours, I asked what was up. The
service guy said they had put in the new air bag wheel
sensor and that the codes were still flashing and that
they would have to "Check further".
I said," No. No check further, take out the new part,
put in the old and give me my car back. Further, it is
probably a diagnosis error and I want you to cut the
labor in half."
I paced in the parking lot in 90 deg heat for 45
minutes swearing, praying and wondering what to do now
that it appeared that we would never fix the car.
Indeed, God was dead. So....I said...
"Yo...God...if you are around, big guy, I would
appreciate some help here."
Ten minutes later, Sue called telling me she was
working late. I shared my total despair.
On the way home with the car, the cell phone rang.
Sue had some words from Laura from cardiology. Laura
said to fill the gas in the car to full and force all
the air out of the tank. She had heard on "Click and
Clack" that the sensors were so sensitive that this
could set them off. I filled it up. The blinking
lights on the airbag disppeared.
Does God live? Well.... I do know when we get
our best car care from cardiology, something is up.
Thursday, January 20, 2005
"Errors Cost You Money"
Many years ago, I was a financial consultant for a major Wall Street firm. Shortly after passing my Series 7 Exam, I was working a public offering for a new series of bond funds, which were in fashion at the time. It was just before lunch. I had a stack of "tickets" or orders and carried them to "the wire", which is what we called the teletype operator that sent the orders to New York. As I presented the orders to the operator, I noticed on the very bottom of each ticket the words:
"Errors cost you money."
Just then the branch manager, who was excited about the effort of everyone during that week, offered to buy lunch at the local pizza place. I thought that was a wonderful idea. On the way over to the pizza place, I asked him, " What's the deal with the "Errors cost you money," on the bottom of every ticket."
"Well," he smiled, "If there is a stock symbol error or quantity error on the ticket, and the stock has to be sold out to remedy the error, the difference due to the error is taken from your paycheck. Also, if someone promises to pay for something.....and then does not.....and the stock or bond has to be sold......the difference is taken from your paycheck."
"What if someone lies," I asked.
"You have to hear and know the customer," he replied. "That is your first responsibility. Don't worry; You will learn quickly."
He was right. When lies cost you money, and the money comes out of one's paycheck....one learns quickly....to hear quite precisely.
This is what all bankers call the "Know Your Customer Rule." It is the very first rule of banking. In a small town, it is pretty easy. On the telephone it gets harder.
In the recent Evansville School Board Forum, Tris Lahti was heard to remark that "Who cares if we built a few too many sports facilities and the numbers are a little out of line with our peers."
Who cares?
One has to care because errors in planning cost everyone---taxpayers....students...parents...business....and teachers.......
The reason that it is important to involve the community in any decision about our schools is that we have a huge stake in the plan. Conflict of interest, whether it is in the form of an architectual firm who gets fees for building doing the planning..........or in the form of board candidates who have relatives on the school district payroll....is a detriment to objective review of our community needs.
Now more than ever, we in Evansville need experienced citizens who are committed to avoiding conflict of interest to run for our Evansville School Board. That is why I am running. I do need your vote on April 3rd. Every vote will count. It is spring break. Don't forget to vote.
"Errors cost you money."
Just then the branch manager, who was excited about the effort of everyone during that week, offered to buy lunch at the local pizza place. I thought that was a wonderful idea. On the way over to the pizza place, I asked him, " What's the deal with the "Errors cost you money," on the bottom of every ticket."
"Well," he smiled, "If there is a stock symbol error or quantity error on the ticket, and the stock has to be sold out to remedy the error, the difference due to the error is taken from your paycheck. Also, if someone promises to pay for something.....and then does not.....and the stock or bond has to be sold......the difference is taken from your paycheck."
"What if someone lies," I asked.
"You have to hear and know the customer," he replied. "That is your first responsibility. Don't worry; You will learn quickly."
He was right. When lies cost you money, and the money comes out of one's paycheck....one learns quickly....to hear quite precisely.
This is what all bankers call the "Know Your Customer Rule." It is the very first rule of banking. In a small town, it is pretty easy. On the telephone it gets harder.
In the recent Evansville School Board Forum, Tris Lahti was heard to remark that "Who cares if we built a few too many sports facilities and the numbers are a little out of line with our peers."
Who cares?
One has to care because errors in planning cost everyone---taxpayers....students...parents...business....and teachers.......
The reason that it is important to involve the community in any decision about our schools is that we have a huge stake in the plan. Conflict of interest, whether it is in the form of an architectual firm who gets fees for building doing the planning..........or in the form of board candidates who have relatives on the school district payroll....is a detriment to objective review of our community needs.
Now more than ever, we in Evansville need experienced citizens who are committed to avoiding conflict of interest to run for our Evansville School Board. That is why I am running. I do need your vote on April 3rd. Every vote will count. It is spring break. Don't forget to vote.
On the Perfect Marriage: On "Mr. and Mrs. Smith--the Movie"; On Politics...and more
Recently we've had a debate in our family. After viewing "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" staring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, I theorized that this indeed was the perfect marriage. Rough in the beginning. O.K. very rough. And then in the end it is just perfect ballet.
My middle daughter, who wishes to remain anonymous, objected strenuously. She is a psychology major and I inquired whether the textbooks describe the marital bond as similar to that of Brad and Angelina. "Heavens no, dad. Are you saying that marriage is like the elevator scene where she nearly kills Brad?"
"Yes," I replied. "That is so real." "The only part that seems too long is the scene at the end where they move in perfect harmony with the machine guns killing all the enemy. Without even a nick or scratch from flying fragments. I am still waiting for that in real life.
Recently "Fred" has written about what he learned about the "open meeting" law at a recent municipal conference for new aldermen. He says:
"One thing I'm learning is that the requirements of open-ness and transparency in local government gives rise to a general slowness in getting things done. For example, alders can almost never have private conversations among themselves about issues. The monthly meetings, held in the public eye, are where we must discuss things before coming to decisions. That's to protect us from accusations of "secret deals" etc, and to ensure that you the citizens have access to the decision-making process."
So, as a matter of debate, I would propose that meetings in our fair city should resemble the relationship of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie during most of the movie----with wild differences of thought that are aired---but rather in public not in private.
If one ever sees orchestrated movement in perfect harmony we will know that something is wrong--terribly wrong. It is only an absolute miracle if all alders could agree in the normal happening of things on anything, and then probably only if they had chatted in private before the meeting or something. Heaven forbid.
So there it is. "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" the movie and the politics. If we ever see perfect harmony, perfect lawyering, perfect grant proposals, perfect public works and perfect dancing with machine guns----or perfect harmony in voting---we will know.
Now. Who is the Brad Pitt? O.K. you all can fight about it.
That's how I see it. You heard it on The Evansville Observer
My middle daughter, who wishes to remain anonymous, objected strenuously. She is a psychology major and I inquired whether the textbooks describe the marital bond as similar to that of Brad and Angelina. "Heavens no, dad. Are you saying that marriage is like the elevator scene where she nearly kills Brad?"
"Yes," I replied. "That is so real." "The only part that seems too long is the scene at the end where they move in perfect harmony with the machine guns killing all the enemy. Without even a nick or scratch from flying fragments. I am still waiting for that in real life.
Recently "Fred" has written about what he learned about the "open meeting" law at a recent municipal conference for new aldermen. He says:
"One thing I'm learning is that the requirements of open-ness and transparency in local government gives rise to a general slowness in getting things done. For example, alders can almost never have private conversations among themselves about issues. The monthly meetings, held in the public eye, are where we must discuss things before coming to decisions. That's to protect us from accusations of "secret deals" etc, and to ensure that you the citizens have access to the decision-making process."
So, as a matter of debate, I would propose that meetings in our fair city should resemble the relationship of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie during most of the movie----with wild differences of thought that are aired---but rather in public not in private.
If one ever sees orchestrated movement in perfect harmony we will know that something is wrong--terribly wrong. It is only an absolute miracle if all alders could agree in the normal happening of things on anything, and then probably only if they had chatted in private before the meeting or something. Heaven forbid.
So there it is. "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" the movie and the politics. If we ever see perfect harmony, perfect lawyering, perfect grant proposals, perfect public works and perfect dancing with machine guns----or perfect harmony in voting---we will know.
Now. Who is the Brad Pitt? O.K. you all can fight about it.
That's how I see it. You heard it on The Evansville Observer
"When you Walk..Walk...When you Run,...Run.....Don't Wobble"
Falling off the Bicycle--a true story; Reflections on the Evansville growth bicycle
For over a decade, my wife and I annually receive a brochure from UW Plattville about the European bike tour, that features a 10 day bike ride---Usually there are three different countries to choose from.
As far as dreams go, this one has been on the back burner. Now that two of the kids have finished college, however, we are facing a dream crisis of sorts---the bike trip requires being fit enough to bike 50 miles a day for a week. Yes, I did do the 56 mile Sugar River Trail roundtrip some years ago, but did take a week off afterwords. We do need to get the dream in our lifetime, so....
The other night we both went out to begin training again. I wore my yellow "Lance Armstrong" t-shirt just for the occasion. About the 5 mile mark, I got a little thirsty and noticed that my wife had forgotten her water bottle. Having watched the Tour de France, I knew just what to do. I yelled to my fellow peloton rider, wife, to bike beside so I could pass the water bottle. Just as she was reaching, or over-reaching for the bottle.....she crashed to the pavement.
My wife is a sonographer for a local hospital, and her arm and hands, and yes mind are the keys to her occupation. In a heartbeat, we both held our breath. .....Ok. no broken hips or arms. relax...
Sometimes in pursuing a dream, one can, in the frenzy of things fall off the growth bicycle. Sometimes in reaching too far and not being in touch, reality can come and readjust the dream big time.
For me, it bought back my favorite Zen saying, " When you walk, walk. When you run, run. Don't wobble. "
When you are on the growth bicycle it is important not to overreach. The pavement comes quickly.
For over a decade, my wife and I annually receive a brochure from UW Plattville about the European bike tour, that features a 10 day bike ride---Usually there are three different countries to choose from.
As far as dreams go, this one has been on the back burner. Now that two of the kids have finished college, however, we are facing a dream crisis of sorts---the bike trip requires being fit enough to bike 50 miles a day for a week. Yes, I did do the 56 mile Sugar River Trail roundtrip some years ago, but did take a week off afterwords. We do need to get the dream in our lifetime, so....
The other night we both went out to begin training again. I wore my yellow "Lance Armstrong" t-shirt just for the occasion. About the 5 mile mark, I got a little thirsty and noticed that my wife had forgotten her water bottle. Having watched the Tour de France, I knew just what to do. I yelled to my fellow peloton rider, wife, to bike beside so I could pass the water bottle. Just as she was reaching, or over-reaching for the bottle.....she crashed to the pavement.
My wife is a sonographer for a local hospital, and her arm and hands, and yes mind are the keys to her occupation. In a heartbeat, we both held our breath. .....Ok. no broken hips or arms. relax...
Sometimes in pursuing a dream, one can, in the frenzy of things fall off the growth bicycle. Sometimes in reaching too far and not being in touch, reality can come and readjust the dream big time.
For me, it bought back my favorite Zen saying, " When you walk, walk. When you run, run. Don't wobble. "
When you are on the growth bicycle it is important not to overreach. The pavement comes quickly.
"Welcome Failure: Failure is the Breakfast of Champions"---a true Story
Chinese Fortune Cookie Corner: "Welcome Failure: Failure is the Breakfast of Champions"---a true story
Yesterday I had to take my youngest to Janesville for a driver education road lesson. Before the lesson, we had a little time together for her to shop and then to share a bit of Chinese at the Food Court.
I have a habit of opening the fortune cookie first--- before the meal. The Fortune Cookie read: " Welcome Failure: Failure is the Breakfast of Champions."
I have mentioned in an earlier post, that over thirty years ago, right after a fortune cookie that read, "Not Now, but Soon," I had received a layoff from an employer. Ever since, I have paid strict attention to those fortune cookies. That being said, I wish they were more precise. The vagueness in unnerving.
Relax. The driving lesson went fine.
I think the Chinese were directing the fortune cookie towards those who did not know that the world of school and life are different. Nobody gets 99.992% success all the time and still ranks at the median of the class.
Most folks are blessed with enough failures so they have a balanced view of their strengths and weaknesses. Or at least the whims of the world.
After reflection, I feel pretty confident that I have had enough failures thank you. I do not need any more.
Then again, maybe the Chinese fortune cookie WAS talking about that planning commission meeting last week---what a devastating failure in the unanimous defeat of the efforts of the community of the 4th Ward to prevent the bar on Exchange Street. Was that what the cookie was talking about? We will never know for sure.
The Observer still recommends that this specific fortune cookie be eliminated from the mix till it can be more specific. I hope the Chinese Observer is taking notes.
Yesterday I had to take my youngest to Janesville for a driver education road lesson. Before the lesson, we had a little time together for her to shop and then to share a bit of Chinese at the Food Court.
I have a habit of opening the fortune cookie first--- before the meal. The Fortune Cookie read: " Welcome Failure: Failure is the Breakfast of Champions."
I have mentioned in an earlier post, that over thirty years ago, right after a fortune cookie that read, "Not Now, but Soon," I had received a layoff from an employer. Ever since, I have paid strict attention to those fortune cookies. That being said, I wish they were more precise. The vagueness in unnerving.
Relax. The driving lesson went fine.
I think the Chinese were directing the fortune cookie towards those who did not know that the world of school and life are different. Nobody gets 99.992% success all the time and still ranks at the median of the class.
Most folks are blessed with enough failures so they have a balanced view of their strengths and weaknesses. Or at least the whims of the world.
After reflection, I feel pretty confident that I have had enough failures thank you. I do not need any more.
Then again, maybe the Chinese fortune cookie WAS talking about that planning commission meeting last week---what a devastating failure in the unanimous defeat of the efforts of the community of the 4th Ward to prevent the bar on Exchange Street. Was that what the cookie was talking about? We will never know for sure.
The Observer still recommends that this specific fortune cookie be eliminated from the mix till it can be more specific. I hope the Chinese Observer is taking notes.
"Rocky VII,..Rocky VII"
One of the traditions of the dental clinic where our family goes is what I call the "announcement." When you arrive for your appointment, over the speaker of the clinic booms the voice of the front desk receptionist, "Annie7, Annie7" or whichever dental hygenist is assigned to you plus the number 7. The number 7 is the universal number which means that the customer has arrived. It is time to serve. It is showtime.
In Evansville recently, a discussion has ensued over whether if 95% of the folks in Evansville believe in a target for growth, it is to be considered the "public will" or just "mostly the public will" and something to be disregarded. The decision will come at the Evansville Common Council meeting in August. Plan on attending.
There has also been discussed whether it is possible for Sylvester Stallone to really come back in Rocky VII. Miracle Max thinks the patient is dead. "Grumps" says it is never too late for "Rocky" especially when "Eye of the Tiger" is playing in the background.
Click on the post for the analysis of "Fred" on the issue of Smart Growth for Evansville and what it all means for the meeting in August.
For the Observer, I wish to simply announce:
"Rocky VII, Rocky VII"
It is time to show up. The customers have arrived. It is time to serve.
In Evansville recently, a discussion has ensued over whether if 95% of the folks in Evansville believe in a target for growth, it is to be considered the "public will" or just "mostly the public will" and something to be disregarded. The decision will come at the Evansville Common Council meeting in August. Plan on attending.
There has also been discussed whether it is possible for Sylvester Stallone to really come back in Rocky VII. Miracle Max thinks the patient is dead. "Grumps" says it is never too late for "Rocky" especially when "Eye of the Tiger" is playing in the background.
Click on the post for the analysis of "Fred" on the issue of Smart Growth for Evansville and what it all means for the meeting in August.
For the Observer, I wish to simply announce:
"Rocky VII, Rocky VII"
It is time to show up. The customers have arrived. It is time to serve.
"True Love" or "Where is Miracle Max When We Need Him?"
(Ed. note. Due to the many requests of readers, I have reprinted this post of 7-13-2006. Enjoy. )
Many of you remember the blogger "Miracle Max" who posted for many days here on the Observer site. It sure would be nice to get his advice during this period in our local history---here is the question.
First a little background. In the movie "Princess Bride", after Wesley and the princess get out of the forest and the pit of despair, Wesley is apparently killed and he is dragged to the house of "Miracle Max."
"Miracle Max" is not too happy to come out of retirement to treat Wesley. He performs a preliminary test and asks Wesley...."What do you seek?" Wesley says something. Miracle Max says that Wesley has said "Tru Blave"----that he just wants to be brave which is not a strong enough reason to save him.
The wife of Miracle Max then strongly speaks up and says that Wesley has instead said "True Love." And she insists that this is a noble calling worth saving his life for.
Well. The rest of the movie is pretty clear cut.
Here is my question. Was this just a hearing problem with Miracle Max? or something deeper. I have always wondered.
Recently on our local scene, 95% of the folks in Evansville have said that they want a growth rate of 27% or less. Some say that they cannot hear this. I am the Observer and would give anyone a chance. A benefit of the doubt.
This may just be a hearing problem.
You make the call.
Many of you remember the blogger "Miracle Max" who posted for many days here on the Observer site. It sure would be nice to get his advice during this period in our local history---here is the question.
First a little background. In the movie "Princess Bride", after Wesley and the princess get out of the forest and the pit of despair, Wesley is apparently killed and he is dragged to the house of "Miracle Max."
"Miracle Max" is not too happy to come out of retirement to treat Wesley. He performs a preliminary test and asks Wesley...."What do you seek?" Wesley says something. Miracle Max says that Wesley has said "Tru Blave"----that he just wants to be brave which is not a strong enough reason to save him.
The wife of Miracle Max then strongly speaks up and says that Wesley has instead said "True Love." And she insists that this is a noble calling worth saving his life for.
Well. The rest of the movie is pretty clear cut.
Here is my question. Was this just a hearing problem with Miracle Max? or something deeper. I have always wondered.
Recently on our local scene, 95% of the folks in Evansville have said that they want a growth rate of 27% or less. Some say that they cannot hear this. I am the Observer and would give anyone a chance. A benefit of the doubt.
This may just be a hearing problem.
You make the call.
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