Web of Allies

Last Minute Christmas Card Idea

2011-12-21T09:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas cards have likely gone out to business contacts, faraway friends and others, but for those close to you whom you haven’t purchased a gift, why not include a delicious dinner or dessert? Not the whole thing, just a recipe! At novelty stores, grocery stores, card shops, there are recipe cards. Cute or witty, plain or serious, get a stack and write out some of your favorite recipes. Put the card in your Christmas card and voila! A great gift to last and last. Don’t have a favorite recipe? Here’s one that went our to some special people this year: (Full Article).....

Keeping Social Media in Focus

2011-12-08T08:55:00.000-08:00

After helping a close contact set up some social media, I realized that one key to success in marketing online is keeping your efforts on track and in focus. Here is an exerpt from an article I wrote this morning or click to read the whole social media article.

Profile names, passwords, and rankings can get jumbled and your efforts may get watered down if you spread yourself too thin. If you are new to online media, it can be intimidating with the plethora of options available. Here is five ways to stay focused and keep your efforts on the right track.
1. Identify your goals. Do you want to create brand awareness or highlight brick and mortar locations? Maybe you want to build value in a dot com or become a social media guru. Regardless of what your goals are, list them, refine them and research the best ways to turn them into a reality. Write them down and keep them handy. Type them out and use them as a screensaver. Set appointments in your phone and get daily reminders. You get the idea.

2. Research, read, write and research a little more. You have more opportunity than just thirty years ago, ten years ago, two years ago. There is information available on just about every conceivable topic. You can save money by not having to buy books or instruction manuals. You may submit questions in forums and get help with areas you don't yet have experience in and you can contribute your success and failures to help others as well....

(Click for the entire article)

Clearing out your spaces

2011-12-06T08:26:00.000-08:00

For the last part of 2011, I suggest on my Facebook page and will duplicate the suggestion here, that you clean out your spaces. From offices to people, from thoughts to visualizations, it's time to clean up anything that stands between you and your goals for the future. 2012 is going to be monumental-where do you want to be?
Head into that office space, tackle the filing cabinet and get an orderly system together so that you can be successful and calm while you complete tasls and meet goals. You will feel better and more focused if you know where your working items are and your space will be supportive of you meeting your goals and making it through obstacles. Put up an old fashioned calendar to keep you reminded of important dates and meeting times before they get there. Think of what you will need to succeed and contact anyone you could use for advice and mentoring.
Your thoughts will create your reality and if there are any blank spaces or questions, use your social media or get out to meet people in your local area. Strike up conversations with the people around you, talk to people about what you are doing and what your goals are. Think them through but don't be rigid. Clear out any people in your life that are not supportive. Let them know where you are headed and why. It's important to have the proper support and if you don't already have it, find it or make it yourself. Keep pictures, video and notes of your successes and put them where you will see them. Pat yourself on the back and compliment your own efforts.
See your success. Really know what it will look like when you are working hard and realizing your true talent and lifestyle. What is your optimum life? Is it being home more with your kids? Is it owning a jet or traveling to foreign places? Maybe it's a simple life with the necessities taken care of for the next few generations. No matter what you are setting out to do and accomplish, visualize and clear until the new year arrives. Yes, you can work now as well, but the end of the year is a great time in the cycles to really clear the way to lay your path.

Jennifer Lynn Consulting on Facebook

2011-12-05T14:16:00.000-08:00

I have decided it's time to branch off my social media into the consultative and professional/personal directions that make sense. For my new facebook page, I will be discussing media from traditional to social to guerrilla, relating experiences that can help your business or brand and dig into what the future seems to hold for online. Click over and like my new page to be kept in the loop and get valuable information on how to track and add to your success.

My School and I Moves forward

2011-11-30T12:53:00.000-08:00

My School and I is a business being built to fund schools from the inside out. With the help of consumers, we can fund, grow and sustain our schools and quality of education. The business idea has been in development for some time now and partnerships are being formed.
What can you do to help? Help me by visiting the site, sending me the contact information for your school's district or for your charter school and by buying through the links on the My School and I domain. Soon there will be another link where individuals will be able to sign up for their own page, get a log in for the school purse and earn money for themselves!
Thank you for your support while we grow and watch for upcoming evolutions to help fund our schools and families!

The Final Push_A Countdown to the Transitional 2012

2011-11-25T12:25:00.000-08:00

It's Black Friday and now there is a push of energy until the end of the year. Self assigned and socially instituted goals and timelines impact us all as we rush to the finish-whatever that finish may be. Maybe it's Christmas or the New Year. Maybe it's finishing projects that have been put in motion. Perhaps it's finishing up with a cycle. Regardless of the goal, here are a few tips that might help out in the final days of 2011.

Keep your cool.
If you get wound up or feel anxious and pressured, do things consciously to remind you to stay cool . It doesn't really matter what would potentially happen if you don't, it's what won't happen that matters here. You meeting your goal. Since everyone learns differently, think about your personality and what you respond to and get creative.
     For a:
     Physical person, get a stone or crystal that represents calm or happiness and keep it in your pocket everyday. Don't have a pocket? Keep it where you put your cell phone, you are bound to find it there.
     Visual person, put up a screensaver with the symbol that stands for focus or wealth and register what it means to you, say it out loud even, a few times a day.

Know what you want.
     You can't just do what feels right at the moment if you want to go to a particular place or feel a certain way. You also can't control the process. All you can do is decide where you'd like to go, imagine you are there and attempt to visualize and feel what it would feel like, then relax and trust in the process. Remind yourself periodically and keep on try to use the same or similar visualizations.

Trust in the process.
     Yes, it was just mentioned, but this can be a difficult part. Know what the ultimate goal is and trust. Trust the universe and your environment to enable your success. Yes, you have to. No, it's not just because the all is more powerful than any individual part. It's because we are dynamic and complex individuals who require a multitude of energies and forces to do anything of magnitude. If you have a hard time:
     Remember back to a time when someone was there for you. That individual that was nice when you needed it or the person that pulled you through or out of a hard time. Dwell on it a while and pay attention to how it makes you feel. Thank your universe for always being there for you. It is.

Be kind.
     No matter your mood, your goals, your responsibilities or pressures, try to take into consideration that others have their internal anxiety as well. Be kind and help when possible and when it will not interfere with your goals. By focusing on your goals in this way, you realize how there really is a Virtue to Selfishness but only where it concerns your true core self. The little things are everything else. Enjoy your life, the good will come if you let it.

Give Thanks for Accomplishment.
Considering that we ask the universe for insight, assistance, mercy, justice and other things, it seems right that we also give thanks when we complete a task, finish up with a goal or feel fantastic in a moment. Let the feeling overcome you and say thanks to the many ways you are affected and the energy that went into it. For bonus points, breathe deeply and smile while saying your thanks.

Being Thankful to Your Food _ or _ How Our Energy Affects the Outcome

2011-11-24T10:34:00.000-08:00

When we cook, we should be grateful for the turkey we have, the vegetables that were picked for our enjoyment and the fresh beverages that wash it all down. Why, though? Is it because we feel for the turkey who died or are we to be grateful it had the opportunity to be consumed and provide us with vital
energy?
Either way, how we feel and how we treat our foods tends to affect the outcome, the taste and the overall enjoyment of our food. Perhaps it's because our subtly energies affect the subtle energies around us. Maybe it's because if we are paying attention to what we are preparing, we do it more carefully, with conscious effort and the result is better. Either or both ways, our gratitude affects our meal, the people we share it with and the holiday on which we were brought together for such an opportunity. I am at another's house this holiday season so I will be preparing little, but when I cut up my fruit for the traditional fruit salad (Check out my grandma's simple recipe), I will do my best to cut it all in a way that the bites will fit nicely into the mouth, have the opportunity to mix with as many flavors as possible and taste good to those who eat it. A bit much, maybe, but I really love food.
Happy Thanksgiving.

New Email List

2011-08-10T13:08:00.000-07:00

I am putting together an email list and will be starting up a bi monthly newsletter to allow me to stay in better touch with all of those I've had the opportunity to work with or know. The newsletters will contain interesting items in e or more of these five realms. Society; media; promotion(s); feedback; random. There's five topics because I like the number and because I have to have a wide reach or I'll get bored. I'd also welcome topic ideas if there is anything you'd like to hear about. The first issue we will feature:

Age and social perception
PayPerClick marketing
A local promotion
A survey
A quotable quote

If you'd like to sign up, submit your email. If I already have your card, you will likely get an opt in email in the next couple of days.

EchoSign for a better business

2011-08-08T09:52:00.000-07:00

If you have a business that requires signed agreements and quick processing, use EchoSign. Recently acquired by Adobe, EchoSign is a smooth and easy to use system that will save you time and lost contracts. All you have to do is get an account, upload your agreements and enter the contact information for the agreement. EchoSign does the rest. It sends, gets it signed and tracks how fast you get your responses. If you don't get a response, set reminders to keep you and your clients on track.
I have used EchoSign many times and recommended them to many great businesses-I'd suggest you give it a look!

Get Miso Soup for Radiation, Plus 9 Other Items to Keep On Hand

2011-03-16T09:13:00.000-07:00

I know there is a lot of panicking. I might look to be doing the same. Here are a few of the things that calmed me down and move to the next step in getting ready.
I recogignized where I was at. What the realistic dangers are and what my current situation is.
Then I made a quick mental list and started on a physical list of what else I need to get ready for the just in case.
I realized I am in America. Whether the citizens of today like it or not, we provide aid around the world. This means that should something happen at home, we need to be prepared to take care of it ourselves. Help others and our country will do well. Community is a necessity and the healthier and happier those around you are, the better your environment will be.
Enjoy my latest article with 10 things you should have on hand for now, including Miso Soup.
Peace.
Jennifer

Popchips-your next favorite snack.

2011-03-09T11:29:00.000-08:00

There's a competition going on and today is the last day! Get your vote on!

Spring Break Survival Kit Giveaway!

2011-03-08T10:35:00.000-08:00

Spring Break Survival Kit Giveaway! Full of popchips, softlips and more!

The first wrap up article

2011-03-07T15:43:00.000-08:00

There are some great participants and I have met a lot of cool people during the campaign. Since I'm still kind of new back to Utah, it gave me some new ideas and perceptions about my home state. Also, it made me super antsy to travel again! I love the states, love road trips and airports and can't wait to get my school program running to re-tour the states. I heven't been to them all just yet and would love, love to get a cool RV of my own.

Minute to Win It Comes To Utah

2011-03-07T15:39:00.000-08:00

The first article there is a self promoting one. I wrote a couple other articles, too. I wrote these mostly for the great people I met. They've gotten a kick out of them, but we also didn't post this anywhere mainstream. See the title article here and there is a second article with interviews and the like.

Shameless self promotion

2011-03-07T15:01:00.000-08:00

I love free-press-release for self promoting news. It's news to those around me and I only really post it to my sites, but it's got a great layout and it's easy to share.

Popchips top posted article

2011-03-07T14:37:00.000-08:00

This article has gotten the most hits. I just posted on a free PR site, but it will be online for good so the company should get a lot of traffic and the others like it that I have posted.
Popchips is almost finished up with the VP search. Click and vote here!

George Clooney-Not for politics?

2011-02-26T08:03:00.001-08:00

February 23, 2011 by jenniferlynnmason Leave a Comment

There was an article today on MSN’s Wonderwall about George Clooney not going into politics. Apparently he feels that “I drank the bong water” isn’t a good campaign slogan. What does this mean and is it true? I am setting up this blog and will be putting out other materials asserting that not only would the George Clooney’s of the world make good political leaders, but that they are in fact the type of people the populace needs as a voice.

The word politics makes me feel like I should go wash my mouth out, but after reading the article about Clooney, I swallowed hard and looked the word up. Not surprising what I found, just appalled at what we as a global citizenship have allowed it to mutate into. Politics: “of, by or for the citizens”

Sounds familiar. What are “the citizens?” Is it just Americans? The globe? Cultures we can communicate with or that we must interact with?

By any standard, before the last Presidential election, George Clooney would have been considered more of a global force than any of the candidates. He’s made more money than many, traveled the globe and had to learn a long list of persona’s for his roles in Hollywood. His works influence the masses that watch them. How does this not make a good “of, by and for the people” type leader? Is there really a stigma that if you participated in activities that were illegal or considered immoral by some that you are incapable of leading? If that is so, I’d argue that if we could get a realistic accountability rundown, there would be a mass exodus from political offices around the globe. I argue that the difference between a modern day politician and a leader who ‘can’t’ go in to politics is in part the willingness of either to lie about experiences.

Tell the truth. Do it and watch what happens. You will get in more trouble than those willing to lie or manipulate. You will probably have less financially and you will likely lose friends or family when you are honest about everyday experiences. The role of the citizen, however, is to be that person who is willing to do and be what they are because it is furthering them in their life. If this path leads them into a position of influence, there shouldn’t be a need to part from reality in order to capitalize on or educate about the experiences that were had. In fact, it is likely that how you dealt with reality that got you to a position of influence. Sharing these lessons can help others that are on a similar life path further their progress-maybe even sans a few mistakes.

Also, I enjoy freedoms and nice things, but in America, we have been aware of ridiculous government spending and programs for a long time now. We have movies that make fun of the prices paid for government items. Men In Black comes to mind right off, but there are hundreds I’m sure. Also- jokes. I read one the other day that compared the annual tax on an average citizen’s salary to the price of a toilet seat at the Pentagon. We have the right to laugh at government spending, even to be proud and boastful if we so choose. We have the right to let it continue or to demand that it stop. What we do not have, however, is the right to laugh at it, allow it to continue and demand that the socially responsible programs, education systems and court systems get adequate funding as well. If we want to let Washington just go on and do what they are doing, what we need is an alternative to their taking care of the most important aspects of our social structure. Education; housing; food and basic medical for everyone. If we are going to let NASA run to space and back, spend $11 million to develop the space pen (Russia used a pencil), house museums and the like to pay their missions homage-fine, but let’s do the nitty gritty ourselves. Hollywood types, sport heroes and musicians-come help, we need it! Come speak, we want to be motivated in fun ways, not just by the clashing of political agendas. Come lead-you know how to orchestrate hundreds to get something done, so let’s do it in the parts of our world that need the most help. Run for office! Let’s get some non politicians into politics at the highest of levels and let’s transmute what we have into something greater. You don’t always have to tear down the old to have new! Whether we are screw ups, screw offs or just the good ‘ol fashioned type that likes people for people let’s not judge others that are willing and able to do their part.

Let’s get moving again! Build up the amazing, albeit the bit spoiled foundation that we have. On a global level, people are all fired up, but let’s not tear down what has value, let’s elaborate on it. Let us outdo ourselves time and again.

Let’s not fight with the powers that be, let us become the powers that be.

My School and I is growing!

2011-01-08T00:14:00.000-08:00

I've mentioned this year will be huge - what a start! With much going on in global news, new media, and more, it is difficult for a curious creature like myself to stay focused and move forward each day. However, it is exciting to see progress already being made on what myself and others feel will be a socially important business.
The foundation for My School and I is building and our first website is due to go online any day. Social media and an online donations portal will also hit the ground running with great supporters. Special thanks to Mayor Corroon, the Jordan, Granite and SLC school districts, Joy Howes and the many others who have reviewed and provided their valuable input.
For 2011, there will be some lofty goals on my part. Ideally, a shift in perspective will occour and individuals and families will stop trying to "Save our Schools" and instead start to realize the potential to make them grow and truly enable our youth. With this in mind, I will continue to develop the business and find the funding to finish the software. Without restrictions on geographical locations or social boundries, the goal is to fund schools, enable families and do so without taking from taxpayers, students or other areas of our social system.
Yes, it keeps me up at night sometimes to realize that education used to be such a core focus now lost in the sea of budgets and political conjecture. The arts, sciences, and healthy living are important for our children, and for society, it is a dire need. New improvements in learning are possible for our multitudes of diverse cultures and personalities. New technologies, schools and communications. Not a one of my volunteers, helpers or review boards can find a flaw-all we need is the remainder of the funding and the short implementation time my team and I will need-all possible within this year!
For information on how you can take part in the program, please contact me or follow our upcoming news features. Together and in partnership with our educators, we can provide the quality education children deserve and our globe needs in these times of intense transition.

We are here!

2011-01-01T11:54:00.000-08:00

My mom informed me how awesome this date is! 1/1/11. Neat! What a great New Year's eve party I had-new friends and people, lots of laughing and some adorable pictures of my little one.
We are off to a great start and I am so happy to start this year! My little brother, Isaac, said something that made me super happy, too. He thinks every day should be treated with as much excitement as the New Year. That is a great idea. I like Monday's and Friday's-all the in between and after, too. He is right.
Happy New Year!
Light, Love, Peace and Joy.

2011

2010-12-31T07:33:00.000-08:00

While I don't know where 2011 will lead-it will take us out of 2010 and that makes me happy. It has been a tough year for me and others as well. This morning, I woke with an excited anxiety-I slept very little and think the pressures of evolving are making me antsy.
On a personal level, I have a lot to be thankful for-I also have much to work on. Far from perfect, there are a few areas where a New Year's resolution won't be enough. I am going to need to dig in, find dicipline and push myself forward.
Happy New Year's Eve to you all. Be safe, have fun and cheers to a wonderful New Year.

Twitter-up and running!

2010-12-30T11:14:00.000-08:00

I finally gave in to Twitter.

Happy Holidays all around!

2010-12-27T13:41:00.000-08:00

What a great holiday season it was! This year, we saw the return of "hustling and bustling" for the season, but once Christmas Eve got here, almost everyone has reported an incredible holiday and a rekindling of some kind. Old traditions, family in from unexpected places and a genuine feeling of togetherness.
As the new year approaches, excitement and anticipation for what's next is building. Many seeds have been planted and most are ready to work for the changes they'd like to see in their world. New areas of study and health are opening up and the sciences are parallelling other areas of research. The arts are seeing an infusion of spirit and industrious designs are creeping into fashion.
On a personal level, 2011 is going to be a year of challenges and opportunity. The sustainable funding program that I have developed with help from a few kind volunteers has seen huge growth in it's PR audience, new partnerships are forming and we are moving ahead with a temporary website until funding to finish the software is aquired. As for the marketing arena, Wisdom Teeth Only is growing online and we are looking forward to the possibility of producing some viral video ads with Flying Leap Films. Also, Body Complete Now will be coming online, hopefully mid-January, watch for these all natural and inexpensive products to help you save money on your personal care items.
As December winds to a close, I am winding up for a fantastic year. I am greatful to my family and friends, my allies in both business and social outings and wish you all the best in the coming times.

Tips for saving and making money

2010-12-14T07:48:00.003-08:00

With so much keeping life busy and high pressure right now, here is a quick article with tips and advice for building in times of decline.

TSA and actual law

2010-12-09T06:43:00.000-08:00

TSA has an issue. Real law. read to learn more or send us your story.

Great response and growth

2010-12-08T08:51:00.003-08:00

Just a quick not to thank those of you who are forwarding my information on. I ahve had a great response from \my latest content and am excited to have such a great network of family, friends and allies.

My School and I opens for businesses

2010-12-04T19:09:00.000-08:00

Businesses that would like to get details on a new, local business marketing opportunity in the Salt Lake Metro Area, can send their business name, phone number and contact name to MySchoolandIBizEntry@gmail.com

My School and I is a new program designed to build on the education system through sustainable funding and green communications. The program is set to launch in Utah in 2011.

A little poetry... Just to break it up a bit.

2010-12-03T07:09:00.000-08:00

Might not be the world's most insperational poem, but here's one of my latest efforts (after quite a hiatus).

Could schools become profitable?

2010-12-02T18:15:00.000-08:00

A group of Utahn's think so. My School and I has headed into start up funding mode and has their first set of suprisingly large customers on stand-by. What is pushing the plan forward? Sustainability and green/local initiatives paired with multi-billion dollar potential.
With opportunities poppoing up around the globe for innovative new money making ideas and processes, the initial feedback recieved by the simple and inexpensive to implement education funding program has put business development into high gear.
Email the author for follow up information as it becomes available.

Newsletter and projects

2010-12-01T14:22:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I will send out a newsletter to start bringing together the businesses I have in my network. I will feature each one of them in turn and try to get good people aligned with other good people to help businesses and ideas grow.
My projects will also include getting my school funding program off the ground, initiating work in production again and growing a base of clients happy with their marketing and PR results. I have some great successes and will be using the best of my abilities to grow an online network of information and resources, brought to you by quality business owners, affiliate networks and individuals.

TSA Continued

2010-11-22T21:48:00.000-08:00

Here is the latest article I have written about the TSA screening measures and here is a link to the KSL article and the KSL interview I did recently.
Our personal freedoms and happiness are being slowly eroded... "not with a cry but with a whimper" is a quote I have to find again... It keeps popping into my head right now and how suitable is that. Hand in hand with the demoralizing and the submission inducing path of our country right now.

Victim of the Airport

2010-10-31T03:56:00.000-07:00

Please see my new article concerning airport security screening changes. I have ben holdin on to this but will be following it for a while. Also, we will be working on 5 projects and we will work on one per weekday and we will see what happens with the weekends. Back to the grind, vacation is over...

Vacation and Rest

2010-04-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

Time to head to Arizona for a little time off in the sun. I haven't been in a while and am hoping it will be a great trip. Mixing a little work in with some promotion of a great band, Headroom Live. It's great to watch people grow and develop in business, it drives me. In this time of recession and recovery, I am excited to have such a will to work. If I did not have allies, I'd probably be a bum for lack of motivation. I love the work in itself, but the effect on the people around me really makes me want to get better, learn more and have more time to devote to the re-structuring of our social system and economic playing field.

See Headroom live of AZ play at Club Vegas

2010-01-16T16:13:00.000-08:00

January 29th, Salt Lake will be bringing Headroom live of Arizona to Club Vegas after the Ultimate Combat fights. Come watch the fights at 8 pm and stay for the live music after the show or show up at 11 pm for the Headroom show only. Visit Headroom on Facebook or MySpace and become a fan before the show. Headroom will be giving out free stuff at the show and plans to re-visit the Utah circut on a regular basis. Stay tuned for press releases and promotional details.

Independence Day 2009

2009-07-07T15:24:00.001-07:00

What a life changing time it has been this past few weeks. My father-in-law passed away and left a mystery life worth piecing together. I made a trip to Utah and had the best family vacation since I was 12. And my nanny quit, enabling me to stay home in what is an otherwise anxiety rich time.
Amazing, lifes way of taking over whenever it likes. Chaos, maybe? Or order restored after we "get what we..."?
Anyhow, I am happy to be back in Scottsdale and to work, but I am looking forward to the changes in life - and the settling in life- that has occoured and been puncuated by the fireworks of Independence Day, 2009.

The ARM and i-Fortuity

2009-06-05T23:58:00.001-07:00

I am pleased to share with you an article I have written about i-Fortuity. Press Release: I-Fortuity makes VoIP sales and savings as easy as 1-2-3
As a business to watch, i-Fortuity is a favorite. There is the fantastic market that they are in (online business) and the fantastic opportunity that there online business has in the VoIP market.

Poised and search engine optimized, on and offline marketed with a Nationwide tour coming up on the next stop, I will be excited to report on the progress of this network.

Scottsdale Princess and Networking Phoenix

2009-04-25T22:06:00.000-07:00

What a week! There has been a shift in the home business market and I have taken on a new role. I now help people get their money back from fraudulent businesses and plan to build a network owned opportunity. There are so many people willing to get out there, network and grow a business! "Find a need and fill it" has been the moniker of so many, it is hard to deny this simple approach to business as a successful one. One individual, Gelie, is doing that exact thing with the NetworkingPhoenix.com calendar and events. I was lucky enough to be in attendance on Thursday with hundreds and hundreds of other professionals at the Scottsdale Fairmont Princess. There were booths, a raffle, WebTV cameras for testimonials and an individual for almost every market vertical!
You can view my article online, I distributed it through free-press-release.com and I suggest their service for those who have news to report. Also, I was part of a YouTube based soap opera. It's not done, but you can view the beginnings here.
Busy week. And they shall be known by their works!

Scottsdale International Film Festival

2009-03-27T13:09:00.000-07:00

I am lucky to be a part of the 2009 Scottsdale International Film Festival, thanks to Director, Amy Ettinger, the Board of Directors and the press release I posted last year. I am so thankful to have an opportunity to be a part of broadening the audience for such an amazing program. The films that were shown when I participated last year were incredible. The schedule was filled with dynamic films from around the globe with a wide range of real humanist perspectives (in my opinion). I loved "Phoebe in Wonderland" and think of it often. Elle Fanning is phenomenal (and has always been a favorite actress of mine) and Patricia Clarkson a perfect fit for the role, movie and fellow cast.
This year, there is sure to be a spectacular lineup and I will post as soon as I can. I did hear yesterday of a Film with a Cause and an Event that will be hosted to honor the two while garnering support. If that makes sense. Update soon to come!
I know that this is a difficult time in the economy and the unification of the globe will be no easy task, but I'd like to encourage everyone to find time to donate your talents to those around you who work hard on the areas of life you enjoy. Work hard, play hard and volunteer.

The Return of Cash

2009-02-27T09:41:00.000-08:00

In this time of economic decline, there is mass opinion on how we can stabilize the economy, return money to consumers and help businesses improve their bottom line. Pay in cash, pay in cash, pay in cash.

Every time a credit or debit card is used, the credit card company, merchant service provider and the terminal service gets a piece of the charge. Typically about 2.35% to Visa, MasterCard, AMEX or Discover, .25 or .35 to the Merchant services company and a monthly fee for the terminal service. The consumer doesn't see any of these charges, but they are deducted from the sale before any of the money ends up in the Merchant's bank account. So what, some say.
Lets look at how, eventually, the credit card companies will have all of the money, leaving the economy in an imbalanced state and the consumers wondering where all the money has gone.
For the sake of space, we will pretend that $10 is the total of all the money in America.

We start out with $10. We swipe a debit/credit card. Of the $10, $.24 goes to the credit card whose logo is on the card used and another $.25 goes to the processor (On a monthly level, there is also the terminal fee, usually about $125.00 but we will ignore that for now.).

So, after one use, the $10 is now 9.51. This money goes into the Merchant's bank account. When they go to spend it, there are the same types of fees if they use credit or debit card. $9.51 minus the 2.35% (.22) and the .25 transaction fee an we are at $9.04. $9.04 and the fees goes to $8.58. At this pace, we can handle 24 more purchases until we end up with $.24 and don't have enough funds for another transaction.

It is imperative that we take a look at spending and the systems that have been put into place. There is an obvious problem with the continuation of credit cards and debit cards. These fees are only a portion of how the major processors make their money. There are set up fees, there is the interest they charge the consumer and fees associated with the liberal charge back policies of the credit card companies. I will discuss charge backs soon. Return to your checkbooks and wallets. Leave the plastic at home in case you need to rent a car or hold a reservation, but withdraw your cash and leave some money in our economy.

The ARM-Giving you more than a hand

2009-02-24T08:37:00.000-08:00

Artists Recording Media
This is a personal marketing company I have had the concept for for over a year. I want to take businesses, organizations and establishments and combine them with peoples individual talents or abilities and create a network of self motivated, self promoting individuals.
Today, I am taking a cameraman to drive with me to the NetworkingPhoenix.com meeting I have at the Paradise Bakery (love their croissants and fresh fruit, not to mention the cookies!) in Scottsdale. I am going to go over more of my upcoming plans, my new connections and concepts. I also am looking to build alliances with those who, like me, feel obligated to society to pull up out of our commonrecession and impress a future plan of action on the minds of our peers.
There is so much opportunity at times like these! On the internet, especially. I see it as the future of employment in addition to one of the few places in our social system where class, education and credit take a back seat to talent and ingenuity.
Giddiyup and wish me luck.

Social Construct meets Change

2009-02-17T21:48:00.000-08:00

Today was filled with surprises. So many people willing to mis-represent themselves in order to get something in return. Some accolade, some position, money or a sense of loyalty. I say, if you must mis-represent yourself at any turn, perhaps you should consider that the ends do not justify the means and there is no true, real or valuable mis-representation.

In discussing the social situations that seem to be changing at a remarkable pace, I spent a lot of yesterday evening talking about male/female relations and what the ideal wife and husband would consist of in addition to what we must evolve into. The ideal wife, in my and many-a-man's opinion is, among other things is: submissive; compassionate; loyal; knowledgeable. An ideal husband may have differing qualities, but all women want: leadership; confidence; intelligence and security. But times have and continue to change.

We are headed for social, environmental and internal evolution. Just a few generations ago, women didn't work. This meant that women did not require and were not admired for their Independence, definition or social position. Now, both parties need to work, whether married, dating or otherwise. Both the man and woman have to define and enable themselves in order to be successful, survive or help their family and peers.

How long will we maintain and continue to watch statistics disprove the majority? Why do we watch society, social systems, beliefs and the like fail when a simple and quick look at history will prove that we, en mass and in our enthusiasm, define reality.

Mis-representation means the wrong path. Reality is our joint and congruent perceptions and only has the emotional, confident backing of reality if it is cohesive with nature and our global evolution.

We are responsible for our individual selves and the assistance of the evolution of the individuals in our locale. Be true in your associations, relations and profession. Watch those who are willing to do the same flourish in your connection. Enable change.

Social Networking

2009-02-16T09:37:00.000-08:00

I am a frequent visitor of Sedona, AZ. My favorite past time is to visit the Shambalah Healing Center, home to the Llama's and Ani's in assistance to the Buddah Maitreya. I have had the opportunity to hear the words of Llama Ian, who helped to calm me at a difficult time. I heard the words of The Buddah, which helped me to understand my relations and their value. I don't have an exact quote, however, the basis of The Buddah's comment was how technology and modern communications have altered and sped up the human relationship. Where it used to take us months or years to have a conversation across long distances-the phone, the cell phone, pager, text and internet have sped us up. We can now have real-time conversations with the masses-without using our voice, resources or going anywhere. This enables us to know more people, get to know them faster, extract the value from a relationship in a shorter period of time and-yes, move on.

What does all this have to do with Social Networking?

First, let me say I signed up to see what twitter.com is all about and saw the words of MC Hammer:
"Perception is the value proposition (we buy perception) and reality offers a balance(true value)... "Control Perception, Analyze Reality".

I'm in sales and this just afforded me much in understanding. I don't know MC Hammer, though I did have some great "Hammer pants" back in the 5th grade. I don't know him and may never- however, I was able to log on to a social networking site, see his conversation with another and extract value from that relationship.

Social Networking has long been the golden ticket in grassroots marketing, but insofar as humanity, social consciousness and the evolution of our inner selves, there is nothing like it. Do you remember when the first chat rooms came about? Everyone I knew was suddenly someone different! Guys were pretending to be young girls, young girls were pretending to be lesbians- men were gay, lesbian, young, rich. It was a mess! As the Internet lost the shiny newness of anonymity, people began to develop online personalities, host their own sites and express themselves better and more freely that they did in their day-to-day lives with their family and friends. There became a balance of who they were and who they dared to be. This was odd to me-stood out as an anomaly that no one discussed. Who were they, really? Why is it that people were so different when they got online? Why were they more free?

My personal belief is that there is a deep desire in everyone to be what they are 100%. Everyone wants to be of real value to their peers, but there has been no medium until this point. Up until now, we have readily accepted people if they offered up a useful personality (their
"value proposition") and even the best of people, who want to be useful and valuable to as many others as possible, twisted and contorted their personality, traits and appearance in order to appeal to their familiars. But it was in vein and the false acceptance-well, it was empty.

Once on the Internet, these contortions were no longer necessary. There was an overwhelming
concept available-that there must be someone out there who could appreciate a true person,
one who felt it necessary to build themselves into an advertiser of their personality. For sure, there was acceptance available for all of us freaks and wanters and self promoters and self-centered and shameless lovers of that which we are.

In comes social networking. It takes the idea of six degrees of separation and makes all that that implies- null. Social networking is important at best, revolutionary in my opinion. It does something so much more important than let us promote talents, virtues, hobbies and associates. It is better than all the sexting and chat rooms and immediate information. Social Networking allows us to focus on and develop ourselves. It enables us- requires those that participate- to answer-"Who are you and what do you want?" For the first time, we have a place-albeit a virtual one- that we can decide and go after our real goals, speak our minds and have interactions with people that are not cloaking themselves in order to feel comfortable or be accepted. It allows us to be the self serving person we are and-this is the beauty of it-when we become those true selves it is the only time where our persona's "value proposition" will be congruent with reality-"true value"-and allow us to feel good, truly good, while bringing our real and amazing value into society.

Inspiration from Within

2009-02-13T21:09:00.000-08:00

There is going to be a need to find raw inspiration. To identify energy that fuels our drive and the ability to perform. Our economic indicators, consumer confidence-they are all irrelevant compared with the will of the masses and intelligent wisdom being applied by the few. In the past couple thousand years there, has never been so many compelling reasons to unite the cultures, the genders and the social classes. But it will take more than politics, war and re-structuring. It will take a global rising of social consciousness and our responsibility to one another. It will be upon individuals to make a decision to come together or stick with the old evolutionary tactic of the survival of the fittest.

Let me digress. I have been panicking my entire life. I have been wise to global warming (Make sure to stick around and find out why global "warming" won't be so warm after all!) since the age of seven or eight. I remember clearly the careful research-sans Google- that I put into my elementary school presentation. CFC's and the dangers of causing holes in the ozone. Twenty plus years later, I am just now starting to hear about the apparent problems from my peers- and I'd guess that nine and a half out of every ten don't know what CFC's are. As a debater in High School, I studied foreign policy with China and Juvenile crime. Toss up which one of those topics made me lose more sleep, but eleven years later, we are just starting to see the repercussions of our ignorance-our confidence that knowing was half the battle and that the remainder would be carried out by, well, someone else (or the pharmacist).

Starting is a merge. An incredulous and awesome merge of Science and Religion, History and Myth, Fact and inevitable futures. These are a tid bit of the components, but you get the idea. In this macrocosm of social elements, it sounds exciting, but on the scale of day to day life, this means a rift and a shift in Medicine and Health. It means the breaking down of old ideals and belief systems. It means a change in the concept of employment, social class and structure. On the level of culture, I would call it a Social Drift as opposed to the Genetic Drift we all may be used to reading about or perhaps are bewildered by when we assume there is a missing link.

As we reach a critical mass of sorts, as things continue to disintegrate and change, we must be flexible within our environs and self motivated to continue until we have found our "New Social Settlement" if you will. Our new way of utilizing technology without polluting the planet and radiating ourselves. A new way to travel and communicate without health depreciating devices. We must be driven to find a way that all Nations, People and Environmental Kingdoms can grow and interact with the other elements of life. And we must find the inspiration for these changes within our selves and avoid the pitfalls of a competitive spirit with our neighbors, enemies or peers. We will do best to learn to be self sufficent while making every effort to contribute to the whole. Action from inaction, inspiration from within.

Happy Friday the 13th.

Free-Press-Release.com

2009-02-12T14:38:00.001-08:00

For all you talented writers, social butterflies and opinionated web bugs, there is an amazing service to help you in your online Public Relations. It is Free-press-release.com. With statistics tracking, easy account management and submission practices, this is an invaluable tool for any online marketer.

Action from Inaction

2009-02-12T09:18:00.000-08:00

I have practiced what I am about to preach and add to it daily. Beginning projects, assigning myself work and homework. Tasks. Testing myself in a variety of ways and enhancing my qualities, working on deficits. It seems easy, to live. I don't find it easy and I can't seem to "just live my life" or "grow up." I call myself a true believer, I have been called many things, but at the end of the day, they all break down to the same thing. I am a worker. A builder.

Yesterday, I added to the frequency and topic areas for my online press releases. I have, in the past, written about topics ranging from the Nobel Peace Prize Winner to the Operation VoIP Launch party for i-Fortuity. Yesterday, I went forward promoting two diverse groups - Aristocrats and NetworkingPhoenix.com. Though grassroots, social networking, entrepreneurs and the future are at the core of each group, the individuals in control of them could not be more different. I say, for now this doesn't matter. It's the work that can be accomplished at each, but to what end? Do I have the right to judge the people I work with or is my work the only ideal? I'm not sure.
*****
Social responsibility is difficult at best. I read, travel and participate in culture all the time. I have a broad knowledge base, but it makes it harder to narrow down that which is important. I also enjoy people, their ideas, motivation and, in adding to it, I feel I have accomplished something for society. It takes a lot to begin something, to have an idea and then actually set it in motion. Inaction and passivity are admired and easy. Trail blazing and initiative are at the core of the entertainment and suspense many of us crave as well as the real life actions that inspire it. Does it matter the direction of the motivation? Does society need all we all have? I truly think we are at a time when we will see what section(s) of society have the staying power, the work ethic and the foresight necessary to traverse these beguiling times. We will also see where we have lived in excess, on false pretense or with unwarranted expectation. Our work will not end for some time and our responsibility for those around us will continue to heavy. I get excited, not knowing what lies ahead and at the same time feel a grave and guilty sense that I have a part in it. We all do.

I say, Let's get to work. Let's find our common needs and put our past couple of thousand years of knowledge, tenacity and skill to work. Let's not sit, depressed or idle. As the masses, let's engage our individual futures and see the Social Responsibility we have to live bravely, fully and in a conscious state of awareness as to how we affect all that is around us. Let's not give reason for us to have a single moment in the future where we say "We should have," "Could have." Let's shine through this transitioning in business, this unification of culture and the changes to the global economy and bring a sense of excitement and childlike wonder to this necessary stage in evolution.

Social drift, perhaps?

Conscious Social Responsibility

2009-02-11T15:11:00.000-08:00

Action from Inaction
Inspiration from Within
Provided by a Lust for Life
Pure love,
No Care of Sin

Know before I do, do before I think=pure action.
Stop holding your righteousness and energy from our planet. Stop keeping your ideas inside, killing them slowly out of fear that someone else might do it for you.
Stop being afraid to live, it is your social responsibility.

In this blog, I will attempt to convey some of my widest and most open thoughts as well as some of my most pointed opinions and hypothisis. Some of the material will not make sense unless read a half dozen times and other segments will seem obvious, though they may still be unknown. In every case, the goal is to find, motivate, and enable a web of allies. Allies to Society. Those who are ready to become Socially Responsible for who they truly are.