Woman Evicted From Home by Mistake

Recently, a bank error led to the eviction of a Homestead, Florida woman -- she had no knowledge that her house was being sold, and came home to meet her furniture in the street.

It wasn't until that hot Florida Wednesday night that Anna Ramirez learned of the man who bought her home. She explained to WPLG-TV that her house was never put up for sale. In fact, Ramirez was in the midst of modifying her home loan with a local Washington Mutual Bank, which mistakenly auctioned off her house. She even submitted her first payment under her new terms. You can see video of the debacle here.

Washington Mutual discovered the error long before the movers were sent to evict Ramirez. At that time, the bank tried to reverse the sale, but the Miami-Dade clerk of Court's Office failed to file the judge's order.

Ramirez was left in tears and with an empty home as she pleaded her case with local news reporters. She repeatedly stated that she did the right thing, and something this severe should have never occurred.

Currently, Ramirez is busy finding a lawyer that will handle her case because many of her belongings were damaged during the eviction process. The judge has reversed the sale, but that information was not sent to the buyer. The county court is trying to fix this issue. The clerk has promised to personally call Ramirez to apologize. Ramirez stated that she has not yet received a call.

One can only imagine how busy housing courts are during these times of increasing foreclosures and home auctions, but that leaves no excuse to allow this to happen to Ms. Ramirez. The courts need to remember that actual people are at the heart of all cases. Ramirez may be one in thousands, but it is still a personal issue when it boils down to her home.

Woman charged $80,000 for each illegally downloaded song

The fight against illegal music downloads is back again. According to Times Online, the federal jury reached ordered Jammie Thomas-Rasset to pay $80,000 per song. She violated copyrights on a total of 24 songs using Kazaa, a peer to peer file sharing network.

Thomas-Rasset and her lawyer have not decided to repeal or pursue a settlement. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) is willing to settle the case for $3,000 to $5,000. Thomas-Rasset is a single mom of four who works for an Indian tribe in Minnesota. She stated that she cannot afford to pay the total amount charged.

I'm puzzled as to how the music industry can charge an individual $80,000 per song. That is an obscene amount of money, and that's the last thing any single parent would want to face during a recession. For any organization to prosecute a charge, the calculated amount must be equal to the loss of revenue. The music industry claims that they have lost billions from illegal downloads.

Times Online states that in December, the RIAA decided that they will stop suing individuals who illegally downloaded music and instead push internet providers to take action. Apparently, there was a shift in strategy.

I was also wondering why Thomas-Rasset chose to use Kazaa, considering all of their legal ramblings. A lot of people currently use LimeWire, whose case is still pending in federal courts. Some music fans rather use the paid legal digital media service that all of us are familiar with- iTunes.

So, what should Thomas-Rasset do? She can choose to settle for a much smaller amount, or continue to appeal in which lawyer fees will add up. The big question is whether or not she actually engaged in sharing music. The RIAA stated that under Thomas-Rasset's email alias, several tracks where shared. Thomas-Rasset denies sharing any music.

EDUCATION REFORM

I had a great discussion concerning the nation's education system with a friend. She had some great solutions in mind that I agreed with and together we came up with some ideas about improving national education. The amount of research that I conducted after this discussion could not amount to my own personal experience being a product of the nation's public education system. So, to start off I looked back to my experiences to help generate some ideas. I received a great education at my elementary school (P.S. 103 in the Bronx). I learned all the basics and was very excited about school in general. I also had parents who were involved and had the mindset that education does not end outside of school. My free time was mainly spent studying basic math and English with my parents. My mom always pushed me to study hard and master the material from school so that I could go anywhere for college and become successful. Paying for college was not an issue because I was trained to excel in education so that college finances will be covered through merit based rewards. When I entered fourth grade, New York State issued standardized exams that judged your understanding of reading and math and ultimately decided your promotion to the next grade. I remember struggling at times, but quickly making sure I learn the necessary material to advance. Exams were a wake up call to stay on track with my education. Class sizes in elementary school were average (about 20 students per teacher), but this number gradually increased as the neighborhood population soared and more children attended the school. In fifth grade we were given the option to attend a Prep School or Arts School for Junior High School. Some applied for the Prep School and attended with government remained in P.S. 103 where they were educated in small class sizes and given another chance to reapply with the same options for Junior High School (at the normal 6th grade entrance). A larger number of students were accepted into the Arts and Prep schools, whereas the few remaining students went on to the local public Junior High School. This was when I began to understand the workings of the public school system. As I progressed through High School, the issue of over crowded schools became intense and I always remembered how my elementary school in the undiscovered corner of the Bronx tackled the issue very well. If this strategy were implemented on a state or even national scale... imagine the outcome. More students will be concerned and motivated about their education with hopes of advancing to greater schools that were once thought of as financially impossible. Through my research, I discovered that this system exist across the nation. Its called the "Voucher System" and its a popular topic in Utah (referendum 1). Statistics show that Utah taxpayers spend about $7,500 to educate each child; 50% comes from state funding, 34% from property taxes, and 8% from federal funding. With overcrowding on the rise, government is faced with a serious economic problem of allocating enough funding for resources to accommodate these extra students. The quick solution could be to simply raise taxes, but why should residents suffer an overall problem when the problem lies within the individual student? There is a conflict between struggling, average, and gifted students. No Child Left Behind ( a legislation put forth by President Bush) increases funding for struggling schools to aid students who are behind according to national standards from state exams. I am confused as to how this helps the overcrowding issue and places attention on helping students. This is a bill that needs serious reform. I say, keep the title because in general, no child should be left behind. The program should focus on choices; give students and parents the power in deciding what is the best alternative for their education. Integrating all levels under one public umbrella is shifting focus and resulting in poor results. Thus, leaving our nation's students behind. The students who want to go elsewhere should use a portion already allocated for them through publican education funding for a private alternative. After all, the lump sum of funding already given by the public is a free voucher. Why not issue a voucher with choice to students who wish to advance their education and leave a system that is failing them. When these students are aware that this option exist they will most likely try hard to receive the best education they can to score well in admission to private schools, therefore reducing class sizes in public schools and increasing funding for the remaining children in the public schools by using the left over amount unused by the student going elsewhere. This will also increase teacher salaries in both sectors of education and provide them with the resources they need to help students advance so that they can try again and put their vouchers to use. Studies show that the remaining students in smaller class sizes will do well in a focused environment dedicated to educating everyone on a personalized level. Some, including myself were concerned about private expenses (wondering if the voucher is enough to cover these students). On average, tuition for grades one through three is around 15,000. In Utah, the individual student will be given 3,000 out of their allocated 7,500 public fund for tuition aid (voucher). This of course will be backed with extra government grants, private aid, merit based scholarships, need based aid etc. As for the public system, schools will keep the extra 4,500 unused by this student to help the remaining students on a smaller scale get to the same position in education and ultimately advance from that point on. This is how I see No Child Left Behind working. We increase choices, limit complaining, and placing an end to failure in our education system. We need to focus on preventing the spoiling of our nation's kindergartners each year. We fail a generation each time we continue to use this same system of failure. Its time we give the next set of students a chance to learn with a choice. It begins in grade school, (full of children eager to learn, just as we all were) by providing them with the message on day one that failure is not an option and no child will be left behind. Stand by our words and ensure that America will continue to be prosperous with the most educated citizens that can compete based on merit which stems from good character and motivation to succeed.

NEW YORK CITY WTC RECONSTRUCTION DELAYS

Following the September eleventh attacks, New York City was left with a physical scar in lower Manhattan. It was a site to mourn for the loss of lives and a collapse of a symbol for liberty and the economic growth that was planned for the city. Months later, talks of redevelopment spread across the nation. The city was actively involved and the excitement was unexplainable. The view of a new and improved downtown despite the horrible events that took place spread this feeling of pride among New Yorkers. Being a New Yorker, I am overly passionate about writing this post because the excitement I had for redevelopment was delayed as well. I am a native of the Bronx, but was impacted from the attacks on September eleventh because my mother commuted to work from the inner city suburban sprawl that cradled the money making bustle of Manhattan. Living more than one hour away from this environment left me longing for the monthly visits to downtown. After the attacks my mom took a job upstate; away from the pain experienced on that day. It was hard on me, because a piece of my imagination was taken away. I was devoted to experience Manhattan for myself. In 2005, I too had to commute one hour away to Manhattan for High School and was excited for the building of the new Freedom Tower to replace the site of destruction. The ghost-like feeling of lower Manhattan will soon be replaced with the pride of economic leadership that we once had. The proposed site was set to be completed by the time I graduated High School. I thought that by the time I left New York for college, the city would rebuild itself and offer me a place that I always imagined for me to return. Unfortunately, this promise was never fulfilled and New Yorkers are angry. The New York Post described the process as "finger pointing". There were consistent decisions to scrap timetables for the project and ex-Governor Pataki left office with a bright vision but very limited physical solutions (cornerstone of Freedom Tower- a marble block... but no promised tower). Now, New York is hit with a recession which spurs talks of coping with construction problems and politicians and developers are developing solutions- delays to a 2013 target! The site was set to include a series of towers, memorial, museum, shopping mall and transit hub. For now, atention is focused on below-ground infrastructure. There is also a plan to build temporary retail space and construct towers later. This angers me because New Yorkers are hungry for development. Just think about the jobs that will be created to build and occupy the space. I understand that financing the project is very diffcult during a recession. Banks are not lending a lot of money due to the development scare and issuing bonds results in limited buyers. For now, taxes and bonds may be the best bet, it just takes a positive message. If politicians promote this project with a positive message, maybe we can restore the excitement that we had from the start. So far, building seven was reconstructed but there were limited bids to purchase office space. Thus, Silverstein Properties, the development company for the new Freedom Tower project, has made this building their official headquarters. I believe that the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation is also based here. I like the idea that this serves as the headquarters for the new site. This goes to show that even though corporations may not purchase space in the new towers, this can be a center for the city and state government. It will be the base for a "new" New York which allows residents to become inovlved (employed) in the effort of improving the city (although retailers and corporations will be a valuable asset). Other projects across the city have been delayed including the Brooklyn Atlantic Yards redevelopment project which is set to include affordable housing, office space and a new Nets Stadium which will further improve Brooklyn's economy. Also, we cannot forget about the major proposals for the Bronx which includes the Yankee Stadium construcion project with a retaile center, and the southern terminal market area. These projects will definately put us back on the map and restore the sense of pride that is slowly fading away among New Yorkers.

OBAMA'S ENERGY TEAM

As promised, I am paying close attention to the development of the "Obama Administration". As stated in the previous post; this is an extremely exciting moment to see a political transition happen. In my opinion, energy is one of the top issues in need of a skilled team. President-elect Obama has appointed Nobel Laureate, a former EPA administrator, several New Jersey and Los Angeles officials to lead energy and environmental initiatives. Steven Chu, director of Lawrence Berkely National Laboratory, leading physicist and winner of a Nobel Prize is the appointed Secretary of Energy. I think that its a wise decision for a scientist to have a seat on the energy board but I think someone with political experience is more suited for the position. A politician is experienced in creating policies for the people of the country, whereas a scientist conducts research and proposes solutions for everyday problems. A combination of both is ideal for a Secretary of Energy position. To fill this gap, President-elect Obama has appointed Carol Browner as "energy czar"; she headed the EPA under the Clinton administration. So far, the energy team is analyzing the effects of greenhouse gasses and how government can play a role in regulating emissions to reduce environmental harm. Its great timing for an energy team and I think its fascinating to follow the transition team. I just hope that this organization continues to work and develop some great ideas for our nation. A bipartisan effort is among my major concerns in policy making for the next four years. Obama's team reflects Democratic views, but the point is to also look at Republican ideas and devise a combined solution. There are many faults to both views (especially on energy solutions) which is why we need to focus on the greater good of America. Leave a comment!

WALMART'S RECESSION PROOF STRATEGY

With the worst holiday season among us, many retailers are suffering due to the lack of consumer discretionary spending. However, discount retailers such as WalMart are surviving the economic fall. The fact is that consumers are holding on to their cash for necessities. People will always need items for living such as food, clothes, health, and sanitary products (most of these necessities are produced by Proctor and Gamble). Its a simple strategy and WalMart has used it well. On their website's home page, the company features a tracker displaying the amount of money consumers are saving by shopping at WalMart. The company also has a new campaign with advertisements featuring average families sharing their story about saving money at WalMart (the new slogan: save money, live better). Recently, I purchased some items at a nearby WalMart and spent $18! Perfect spot for the holiday recession. A business that focuses on necessities will always do well if managed correctly. As for the rest of the retail industry, the holiday will be tough. Surprisingly, my visit to the mall this weekend provided me with a positive outlook for retailers this holiday. Shoppers were everywhere and high end retailers were making sales. Maybe there is hope; is this a sign of a stronger economy? As always, leave a comment.

THE CRUDE AWAKENING

People are jumping for joy because of the happy headlines of $100/barrel Crude Oil. Despite the present relief from inflation, the economic truth states that the continued drop in oil prices negatively reflects the economy. Earlier this year, when oil prices were at their peak, people blamed supply interruptions, speculation and the Middle East. Now that prices are falling, many are questioning why. Simply put, demand has decreased because of the past spike in prices. People are driving less and overall energy consumption is down. However, one might wonder why prices are continuing to fall when we are in the perfect season for energy consumption. The winter weather spurs demand for heating oil, but due to climate change, resdients demand less. Maybe prices are falling because there is more production. Recently, President Bush lifted the executive ban on drilling in previous government locked land such as the Western shale and other offshore locations, thus making speculation a reason for lower oil prices. Bush is now pushing Congress to allow drilling in certain restricted areas for longterm energy price stability. Going back to the source of the problem, lower demand is a major contribution to the price drop. Its interesting to see the relations between the overall economy and the commodities market which reflects our current position. During the peak of inflation when markets were suffering, commodities (especially oil) were rising, now oil is experiencing a serious fall. As I was observing the economy play out from the Spring of 2008 to present I had a basic economic view: commodity prices soared which caused businesses to increase their prices to make up for production costs (inflation- Spring). With inflation on the rise, consumers used less to save the little money they had from jobs from the same corporations that had to raise prices and could not afford workers. At that point I paniced because I knew consumers will demand less as inflation continued... but if they continue to purchase and use less, businesses are not going to have enough income to cover the high production costs. We see this happening now and to increase demand businesses must lower their prices but cant afford to. With the convinient drop in commodity prices, business are able to do so. I now realize that the panic I had of a depression can be solved. The time is now to act and we cannot afford to miss this moment to rebound our economy and come back stronger. I would hate to see the nation get sidetrack from the gift of low commodity prices by using more energy and acting irresponsibly; all to fall back into the same hole where gas prices go back up and national panic to return. The focus should be on energy independance by using domestic resources, renewable energy and maintaining low energy consumption. Lastly, we cannot forget the fact that oil supply can and will run low in the future and a domestic solution is key. This means government and commercial involvement in renewable energy by using the nations wind and solar corridors, domestic and offshore drilling (especially in ANWR, a small area in the coast of Northeast Alaska which caught national attention from several politicians including Governor Palin pushing Congress to open the site for drilling), nuclear, clean coal and natural gas (my favorite.. cheap, clean, and abundant). I just dont want us to get too excited for the sudden decrease in prices. We need to stay focus and keep prices reasonable. President-elect Obama needsto appoint the right person for Energy Secretary of the DOE (a position that I will like to see filled by Governor Palin, but a more realistic pick considering current conditions will be tough). The wrong way of thinking and acting got us into the mess of inflation, to make this same mistake when prices are falling is simply un-American. History shows that whenever we were faced with a crisis, we learned our mistakes and came back strong. The vision of an energy independent nation needs to stay clear and an effort from everyone is needed.

OBAMA'S NATIONAL SECURITY TEAM INCLUDES SENATOR HILLARY CLINTON

Terror attacks in Mumbai, violence in Pakistan, Russian conflict with Georgia, war in Iraq, and threats to the United States puts national security among the top points on the national agenda. Today, President-elect Barack Obama introduced his national security team and stated that our nations security challenges are just as grave as the current economic crisis. Earlier at a Chicago news conference, Obama nominated Senator Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State. First, I would rather see Clinton as Vice President but her position as the leading cabinent member will definately provide her with more experience abroad (potentially for a later presidential run). Senator Clinton is already established and is well known across the world. Thus, this will make her a good Secretary of State in representing our country in the global arena. At first, this appointment came as a shock to me considering Clinton's lack of foreign issues present in her presidential campaign (I would expect something within the lines of social welfare). As for the rest of Obama's national security team there is expert CIA turned Defense Secretary Robert Gates, Marine General James Jones as National Security Advisor, former Supreme Court Judge and Obama campaign legal advisor Eric Holder as Attorney General Advisor, Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano who has experience with immigration issues (border state) turned Secratary of Homeland Security, and National Secuirty Council member Susan Rice as United Nations Ambassador. I think this is a good team that can get things done and ultimately protect and promote our nation. Despite some inexperience with some members such as Susan Rice and Janet Napolitano, now is the chance for exposure. Some members like James Jones, Clinton, and Robert Gates are the ultimate picks for the job considering the wealth of experience and outlook for our nation. Obama wants to consult with military commanders before settling on a timetable for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. The sixteen month timeframe is still a mission of Obama. I think analyzing the process of creating a political team is great for the American public to become involved in the direction of the nation. People now know who is part of the Presidents cabinent and team and can better influence policies.

FUTURE OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY

Following a defeat during the presidential elections, all eyes are on the Republican Party and their future strategies for leading the nation. During John McCain's campaign, the American people became weary of the "old, less energetic" candidate compared to the young and vibrant Barack Obama. Then came Alaska Governor Sarah Palin; she created a modern image of the Republican Party. She drew large crowds and drew in media attention. However, the attacks grew and the public was not impresed with the sudden shift of the "conservative" Republican brand. I think Palin has a bright future ahead of her and needs to focus mainly on getting familiar with the issues such as energy. Aside from Palin, a new savior for the Republican Party: Lousiana governor, Bobby Jindal (age 37). Similar to Obama's discovery during a big speech at the Democratic National Convention, Jindal sparked talk about 2012 presidential run following a series of speeches in Iowa (convenient location for early caucus vote. Jindal ingores speculation and focuses on rebuilding his state following massive destruction from hurricane floods. McCain's chief strategist applauds Jindal by stating "the question is not whether he'll be president, but when he'll be president." Also, according to Rush Limbaugh, Jindal is the "next Ronald Reagan". I havent followed Jindal but it seems as if everyone supports him which is good for the future of the party. There is still time for experience from both governors. Palin needs to focus on the issues by attending several conferences, media events, panel discussions etc. She needs to create a serious image and promote innovative ideas for the challenges being faced. As for Jindal, he should focus on improving Louisiana. If he can create a stronger Louisiana following the disasters, he can use this experience to handle future crises (Jindal the "crisis manager"). So far, both Palin and Jindal have the popularity, now its time for exposure and experience.

RETAIL'S ONLY HOPE FOR HOLIDAY RECESSION PROFITS

Economic downturn? Recession? These words hardly cross the boardrooms within the corporate headquaters of American Eagle and the like. The truth is that consumer spending is at an all time low and same store sales are falling. The retail industry is facing a crisis. During the summer, analysts were growing weary about the industry's economic outlook. However, the summer of 2008 was a time when the United States economy was suffering while the rest of the world was still in decent shape (still declining but not as severe as the U.S). Thus, domestic retail stores were cashing in from tourist spending who toke advantage of our weak dollar. As the summer season passed, the worl economy began to collapse and consumer spending crumbled after. What can keep retailers alive for the holiday season? The working parents are not spending as much for Chrismas gifts and retailers desperately need some sales. The one group thats willing to spend are teens. This consumer group has disposable income from jobs that are willing to pay them less (rather than hiring a working mom to be paid a higher salary, teens can work at minimum wage), and they also have less responsibilities. Teens live for the shopping experience. I always say: Abercrombie survives paycheck to paycheck (collecting all of teen disposable incomes). It seems as if retailers are getting the signals with ghost designing on TV fashion obsessed shows such as The Hills and Gossip Girl on the rise. Its strange that same store sales from Abercombie, American Eagle, and Gap are all down. I think its a pricing issue. My last visit to the Gap tore a whole in my wallet... I barely had enough for a sweater! Few brands get the pricing issue straight, and have effective marketing strategies. Urban Outfitters is one; with second quarter earnings up by 79% this year and a 43% profit surge, this company is recession proof...for now. Theres no doubt that retailers will face a lot of troubles this holiday season, but there is proof of how effective marketing helps. Leave a comment, and Happy Holidays!

DEATHNOTE TO MICHIGAN? The Auto Bailout

Earlier today, the CEO's of the big three US auto makers (General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler) pleaded for Government aide. The basic argument was that the big three can run out of funds without government support. The bill will provide the major US auto companies and suppliers with "bridge loans" for at least ten years with favorable interest rates (think of it as a government investment). Of the $25 Billion package, ten to twelve billion will be lent to GM, seven to eight billion to Ford, and seven billion for Chrysler. The money will be used to pay employees, cover current current operating costs and development of new products. GM states that they have placed some vehicles on hold due to financial troubles. The hearing was a good opportunity to listen to both sides of the argument. I definately agree that the US automakers are an important part to our economy because they employee a majority of Michigan residents. If these companies go under, a large number of jobs will be lost. However, it is too soon to call. Yes, the auto industry is running out of cash daily but so are other businesses that are directly affected by the economic downturn. Its just the nature of the game; not all businesses are recession proof, and it takes good management for a successful transition. I fear that if this bailout plan goes through, it may spread a mission that government is the bank for failure. We have to realize that this will be a serious decision. The true question is whether or not the auto industry has a large enough impact on the US economy for a bailout. Let us look at other scenarious for comparison. The bailouts started off with Fannie and Freddie; major mortgage lenders that desperately needed government assistance. I think that this call for assistance is a surrender to keep pushing. Look at the airline industry; they were struggling since 2000, then got scarred by the unexpected attacks on September 11, 2001, struggled with a spike in fuel costs, and more. They never asked for a bailout and instead filed for Chapter eleven and immediately worked to restructure operations. To this day the airline industry is suffering. In my opinion, if a bailout is to be issued... no one qualifies for a bailout more than the airline industry that employees far more Americans than any one of the major auto makers and greatly affects the US economy. After all, the US airlines transport money (from tourists) into this country. I dont think that the automakers will tank anytime soon, and filing for Chapter eleven bankruptcy is a better route than using tax dollars for a bailout. Again, if this bill passes, then all businesses hurting from the economic downturn qualify for a bailout. For example, Circuit City recently filed for Chapter eleven (bailout? This company is not giving up the battle), restaurants are suffering from the lack of consumer spending and they employ the greatest amount of Americans (mostly poor and middle class)... again, bailout? The auto market still has time to recover. They need to refocus and pay attention to consumers. Toyota (a Japanese company) is doing just that; with the Prius and other sustainable innovations, this company is in fact "moving forward". GM continues to create gas guzzling vehicles and Chrysler has yet to innovate according to consumer demand. Ford has taken the necessary steps but again, they need to take a risk and restructure. It's too soon and too much for a bailout that does not seem right.

THE COUCH POTATO ADVANTAGE

News broke out this morning that TiVo will offer subscribers the option to order Domino's pizza directly from their television. The new feature allows viewers to simply browse through a Domino's menu and click "I want it." Ron Weisburg, the Vice President of precesion and print marketing describes it as "couch commerce". Here is how it works: Subscribers can order pizza or delivery or pick-up, and track delivery timing from their TV sets using the Tivo service (30 minite gurantee delivery time). I really like this idea! The TiVo, Domino partnership will definately serve the "on demand' generation. They're taking the traditional TV Dinner to the next level. Click on COMMENTS to provide feedback on this post.

CALIFORNIA'S STATE OF EMERGENCY!

Lately, wild blazes have engulfed 22,000 acres (and still counting) in California. So far, there have been 30,000 evacuations and 750 structures ranging from mansions to mobile homes are in flames. This recent wildfire adds to the existing 1.56 million acres already burnt by previous wildfires that have engulfed most of Southern California. The state has spent more than $500 Million on firefighting since January 1st of 2008 and Governor Arnold Shwarzenegar reasures us that the state has enough money for emergencies despite financial struggles. Fires are no longer occuring in the hot summers and late fall. Due to climate change, fires are now year round. Southern California has experienced intense drought and record high temperatures this season. Also, the cost for firefighting have reached new highs. The state's emergency department are currently working very hard to improve conditions and fight this wild fire. Despite Governor Shwarzenegar's comments on the current emergency financial stability, we need to be concerned about the long term affects on California's and the nation's economy. California is the leading state in renewable energy and natural resources. The protection of this land is crucial to our economic growth and success. Several crop fields are in ruins and this in turn has a negative effect on the commodities market. If this destruction continues, there may be an increase in agricultural inflation. However, the state can recover from a massive construction boom which will employ construction workers considering the current housing slump (this boom rest in the hands of residents.. will they move back?) Also, the substantial amount of waste left over from the devastation can be converted into energy that can fuel Southern California. As always, leave a comment!

Amazon Set To Unveil NEW E-Book Reader

Many predict that the world will become fully "downloadable" in the future. Music, videos...and now books. Sony convinced some to convert our physical library into a small e-book reader. Next HP followed and a small trend formed. Unfortunately only a few bought in... it is not working. Barnes and Noble continues to prosper with physical books and not many people even know that books can be downloaded. Most readers download an audio book or use an online reading source. Amazon.com thinks that this download craze is a threat... they want in. The largest online retailer started out with Amazon Online Reader. This allowed users to download an entire book and read it on their computer screen. It did well.... I even use it to preview (Search Inside) a book. According to the New York Times, Amazon.com is set to unveil a new e-book reader of their own: The Kindle. Similar to Sony's, The Kindle will use a new type of display to offer readers a pure screen for text. The device will also be capable of wireless syncing; allowing the user to download products from Amazon.com. I think that Amazon.com can do well with this. They must convince publishers to transfer over to downloadable format. However, Amazon must change that tacky design.... LCD screen, shiny, black... its the 'trend'. E-books have so much potential to do well but somewhere along the line... these companies miss the mark. Amazon.com is an innovator. I think that they know how to play the game. I'll keep you posted on this one.

Organic Milk FRAUD

Is six dollars per gallon for organic milk really worth it? Recently, the USDA discovered that Aurora's organic milk didn't meet national standards. The company sells to major retailers such as WalMart, Costco, Target and Safeway. Foods must meet the guidelines in the Organic Foods Production Act to be classified as organic. Aurora Organic Daily, based in Boulder, Colorado stated that they did not brake any rules. The company has made a legal agreement with the USDA to clean up their act. Aurora's Vice President of Marketing, Clark Driftmier stated: "We're doing a transformation-cows reduced, pasture increased, all animals organic from birth..." I think that this is terrible, this is yet another case of a company trying to taking a positive movement for granted. This is not a company to trust. I am appalled that they even denied that they have done wrong! The first step is to admit and then you build, correct, and move on. Obviously their best interest is not the consumer... I think they should be penalized. I am proud of the USDA for doing their job... this will ensure that such a fraud will most likely not occur in the future. Company's will now think twice about their actions and the consequences that will arise. This all goes back to ethics... I strongly believe that every corporation... big or small should have someone in charge of ethics (most likely PR). Careless mistakes... what more can I say?

Toyota: Moving Forward

Having sold over one million hybrid vehicles to date, Toyota is leading the hybrid revolution. According to the largest auto maker by profit, "change is in the air". The company is one of the first to expand it's Hybrid line. Toyota calls it 'Hybrid Synergy Drive'. The line includes the Prius, which is the top selling hybrid car in America. The company's website even features real stories from Toyota hybrid owners. I admire Toyota for 'moving forward'... I wish that others would do the same. The company is devoted to saving the environment and they are placing their best interest in the consumer. Drivers are proud that they own a Toyota hybrid vehicle because they are saving the environment. I have always stated that going green is the latest trend and companies like Toyota, GE, and many others are making a huge profit by doing right.

Big Mac Turns 40!

Forty years ago in 1967, Jim Delligatti, a Pennsylvania franchisee introduced the Big Mac and since then has become a trademark for McDonald's. To celebrate, Delligatti is opening a Big Mac Museum Restaurant this week. While McDonald's is celebrating... America is in disgust. Some say that "a 540 calorie sandwich is nothing to celebrate" and that the Big Mac marks forty years of an obesity epidemic. Many people believe that the Big Mac sparked America's 'super sized culture'. I think that the Big Mac has been a success for McDonald's but we cannot be blindsided by the fact that its harmful to the health of consumers worldwide.

Home Depot Under Construction

StreetBlabber has always complained about how Home Depot needs to improve. The company has a poor organizational structure, stores are cluttered, dirty and overcrowded, and most of all customer service is horrible. Its time for a renovation. Fortunately, Home Depot has realized this problem and seeked out help. The solution: military control! Not quite... The company's CEO, Bob Nardelli is incorporating military-style rule from experience. Nardelli isn't the only employee with a military background. In fact, more than thirteen percent of Home Depot's 345,000 employees have military experience (according to Business Week). Nardelli plans to change Home Depot by importing ideas and people from the military into the company. With rivals such as WalMart expanding their home improvement line, and Lowe's offering a better setting for customers, Home Depot needs to step-up. The company recently invested billions of dollars on technology such as self checkout aisles and in store Web Kiosks. Overall, Nardelli wants to create Home Depot, the nation's third largest retailer, into a more centralized organization. Unfortunately, some analysts aren't buying it. Skeptics say that Nardelli's plan will refocus Home Depot from a retailer into a service business. I think that Home Depot is a great model but just needs to focus on customer service and organization of its stores. The company needs to undergo a major transition. Start by remodeling stores... make them brighter, clean, and spacious for customer convenience. Its unfortunate that Home Depot stores are not like how they're portrayed in commercials. Each Home Depot TV spot features a happy customer and a proud employee with an orange apron helping a hand. The company needs to hire more experienced employees... not with military backgrounds but in the home improvement industry. A customer should be able to gain advice on what paint to use or which faucet works best. Lowe's definitely has the better hand but they are still distant to me. Both companies need to step up... a campaign is once again needed. I think these home improvement giants can and will benefit greatly from global warning's effects. Hurricanes, storms, freezing temperatures, and earthquakes. These natural disasters can cause major problems for home owners. We are all at risk of potential floods and other serious damages. Customers will have no choice but to enter Home Depot or Lowe's stores and prepare for a catastrophe or rebuild. This means that there is potential for Home Depot to succeed but they must start now. Hurricane Erin is on the way and a new image can re-gain those lost customers. Similar to an insurance commercial... Home Depot should have a "campaign for preparation"... alert the nation of potential disasters and urge them to prepare by stocking up on items such as storm windows. Getting back to the main point, Home Depot needs to better their customer service and organizational structure. It will take a lot of work but I believe it could happen.

Can Boeing's New 787 Save The Airline Industry?

Flight delays, cancellations and congestion. If you have traveled by air between September 11, 2001 and now you are most likely one of the many thousands of dissatisfied passengers who are simply fed up due to poor service from airline carriers. Airlines throughout the world are currently facing a major crisis. The industry is suffering from financial problems and poor operations. Earlier this year, many of JetBlue's airplanes were stuck at New York's Laguardia Airport due to an ice storm which left hundreds of passengers stranded for hours! Events like this have raised concern. Many often wonder about what can save the airline industry. Maybe a larger airplane that can accommodate more passengers and reduce the frustration of delays. Instead, we receive Boeing's new 787 Dreamliner. Surprisingly, Boeing's latest aircraft is smaller and accommodates only two hundred people and will be used for point to point traveling. So far, Dreamliner is in high demand. Boeing has managed to sell to forty-seven airlines through the year 2015. The first flight is scheduled for late September. Although the 787 Dreamliner is smaller, its Eco-friendly and designed for comfort. The new aircraft is also technically advanced, therefore it saves a lot of money on fuel and makes the pilot's job safer and more efficient. Overall, the Boeing 787 is the latest attempt to create passenger convenience. But will it work? I think that passengers are not so much looking forward to a trendy ride at the moment. If you can get rid of the frustration and get me on board and to my destination... I'm one happy person. If you can flatter me with that first and then offer a trendy look and nice setting... great. First fix the problem... so many have failed to do so. I think that these airline companies need to better their operations and place the passenger first. Boeing's 787 is 'hip' but will only make matters worst. Its small and that's a problem... passengers will still be squeezed in. I will keep you posted on this topic as Boeing sets for take off this fall. For now... Boeing needs to seriously sit down and figure out how they can build a larger plane that has enough space for 'passenger convenience'. Boeing's biggest competitor, Airbus has released a double decker aircraft that I think is perfect for the industry. The population is rising... passenger traffic is at all time highs and the new Airbus A380 might just work. Great idea: combine Airbus' size with Boeing's features and you just might save the airline industry.

Inside Timberland: Uncovering What Went Wrong

Enjoy the outdoors and take in the New England rustic landscape. A crisp fall day and the typical '90s American' joins the outdoor trend. There was once a popular go-to spot for outdoor fashion: Timberland. Best known for their quality boots used for hiking and mountain climbing, Timberland has grown into an 'outdoor giant' and quickly disappeared into what I like to call- "The Corporate Black Hole". The vision began in 1918, when Nathan Swartz sewed boots by hand at a small Boston shoe company which he later purchased. In 1955, Swartz created Timberland as a family business with he help of his sons. By the 1960s, the Swartz family created one of the first truly waterproof boots. These boots became a signature product of Timberland (the idea was to create a unique waterproof boot...in yellow). In the 1970s the company expanded and added casual and boats shoes to their product line. Shortly after, the company went international and became known for their quality boots and devotion to the outdoors. This image quickly shifted and their target market was ignored. So what exactly went wrong? As Timberland sold casual footwear and clothing, the urban market bought in. Timberland quickly became a staple in the hip hop community. The company experienced a rise in sales and demanded more. Hip-Hop artists began marketing the Timberland brand by wearing the clothing and the company's iconic yellow water proof boot. Timberland even received a 'street name'- "Timbs". The company's website now features a custom section which allows customers to create a boot according to their specifications. One can include graffiti and browse through a range of colors (instead of the traditional...or ICONIC yellow, black or brown boot). The urban market once again bought in and many can be spotted wearing red, blue or even pink "Timbs". Unfortunately, Timberland missed the mark and their target market- outdoor mountain climbers and the casual suburbanite. These consumers were limited and Timberland stopped creating products that benefit the outdoors experience. Timberland became an urban brand. The typical Joe who enjoys camping out in the woods with the family will not wear red or pink boots and a jacket with graffiti. Consumers felt betrayed and went elsewhere; specialty stores like EMS, Burton REIand Eddie Bauer. Unfortunately, Timberland was just a fad for the urban market and ironically, those consumers turned to specialty stores such as North Face, Burton and EMS. Now, Timberland is stuck. I must say that the company has tried to regain their title by going back to their original 'look'. I think that Timberland should have realized that the urban market bought in because they strive to become like the original Timberland consumers: the outdoors type. Companies should always stick to their mission because that's what motivates them to succeed... you have to do something that you take pride in. However, I do applaud Timberland's recent efforts. All of their stores offer shoppers a rustic setting that sets the mood and displays the true culture of the brand. Timberland has also gained some free publicity by going green. The company eliminates glue and ink on all shoe boxes and instead places a nutrition label that states the product's environmental and community impact, and where it was made and manufactured. "We are accountable for what we do...and are not ashamed of telling the truth" says Jeffrey Swartz, Timberland's CEO. I feel that the best way for Timberland to make a successful comeback is by launching a campaign that displays short inspirational stories about mountain hikers, snowboarders, campers etc. and why they use Timberland's products. The company can also market their casual line by featuring a New England family wearing Timberland products by a fireplace during the winter season. I think they have what it takes but they just need to remind themselves of the spirit and culture that Timberland was built upon.