Living legends aren’t easy to come by. Actually shaking one’s hand is a very special experience. Seeing the noble and flawed human who represents the legend is really encouraging. The imperfections allow one to accept the truth of the person’s accomplishments.
Chop wood, carry water
A few years ago, I began to get excited about the return of manufacturing to the U.S. and now it’s happening. Mind you, I don’t expect it to regain the prominent position in our economy that it had prior to the 1970’s. In those days, the U.S. manufacturing industries led the world. Prior to 1973, we were a net exporter to the rest of the world in manufactured goods, oil, grains and investment capital. We were a net attractor of the world’s intellectual talent. Some of these trends took longer to reverse, but manufacturing changed early on.
Posted in Politics and Business
Tagged domestic manufacturing, manufacturing, U.S. manufacturing
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I’ll get mine
The little pastel spoons dip into the gelato. Curly Top asks her boyfriend, “Is our city better today than it was four years ago?”
He ponders a few moments. “I don’t think I know about the city as a whole. My life in particular has gotten better, and the impact of ‘the city’ on me personally seems minimal.”
Curly Top pressed further. “Well, have you noticed more crime in your neighborhood, or less? Does your car hit more potholes along the same routes, or less? Are you paying more in city taxes while parks go into disrepair and libraries shut down? Do you think we even need parks and libraries?”
Posted in The People
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The realities of “reality” television
It’s a very interesting turn of events in the world of entertainment. “Reality” programming has taken the lead on presenting a compelling business argument for advertisers. First, the cost of production is much, much less than for scripted storylines. You need a willing cast of amateurs, who fight each other to participate. You need a soundstage. You need cheap locations that require little if any modification. You don’t need special effects, expensive stunts or big name stars who demand huge paychecks. You just need people who are willing to sell their dreams and fears to the public, in public.
Posted in The People
Tagged advertising, advertising on TV, reality television
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