Pre-digested opinions about political matters appear to be the norm, and the persistence of mistaken perceptions (the belief that something is true though all evidence points to the contrary) afflicts many more people than just the late-night hangers-on at Flag Brew. These pernicious human tendencies prove problematic for democratic society whenever important decisions have to be made. But, leading up to an election… well, wouldn’t it be nice if we could put our dearly held (including erroneous) … [Read more...] about I Have No Clue What I’m Talking About, But Neither Do You
Columnists
New Policy for Dreamers Likely to Result to Permission to Work
Janet Napolitano, secretary of Homeland Security, issued a memorandum on June 15, 2012, that is likely to result in the issuance of thousands of work visas to certain categories of undocumented persons. In a nutshell, the executive branch will not fully enforce federal immigration laws against individuals who: Came to the United States under the age of 16; Have continuously resided in the United States for at least five years preceding the date of June 15, 2012, and are present in the … [Read more...] about New Policy for Dreamers Likely to Result to Permission to Work
Painting Your Home
I have a customer who repaints at least one room in her house every other year, but she’s never happy with the results. The color is all wrong once it’s on the walls, paint ends up splattering on the floor, no matter how many drop cloths she and her husband put down, and she realizes – after the project is done – that some things like faux finishes are better left to the experts. Painting is one of the simplest home improvement projects to manage. However, as my customer has learned the hard … [Read more...] about Painting Your Home
Interventional Cardiology
Interventional cardiology deals specifically with the catheter-based treatment of heart diseases. Interventional cardiologists are board certified cardiologists who perform interventional cardiology procedures, most often in a cardiac catheterization lab at a hospital. The majority of interventional cardiology procedures are performed in the cardiovascular (heart, veins and arteries) system. Most interventional cardiology procedures are considered to be minimally invasive because they do not … [Read more...] about Interventional Cardiology
Heading North to Alaska
Alaska is still one of the most popular travel destinations, and now I know why. We were able to travel there last month and just loved it! Denali is the largest National Park in the United States. It was rainy and cold, but we got to spot several grizzlies, moose and a huge herd of caribou. We then took the dome train to Anchorage. The scenery is just breathtaking and makes the eight hours go by very quickly! Anchorage is a beautiful city and we decided to check it out by taking a Segway … [Read more...] about Heading North to Alaska
HED
Ask any credible financial planner the best way to get one’s finances in order and their immediate response will likely be: “Complete a budget and stick to it.” It’s a great tool for any family, business or entity to use to track their money – no matter how big the wallet. In an organization as large as Coconino County, which serves more than 134,000 residents, a budget serves as a critical planning, communication and fiscal document that outlines the operations and services relied upon by … [Read more...] about HED
The How and When of Buying Investment Properties
Are you ready to buy an investment property? Here are some things to consider. 1. Location, location, location. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again. Invest in the best location you can afford. It will determine the kind of tenants you will attract and how much rent you can charge. A property in a desirable location will also appreciate more over time and be less susceptible to the ups and downs of the real estate market. It will also stay more fully rented, helping your cash … [Read more...] about The How and When of Buying Investment Properties
Creating the Right Atmosphere
Consider your favorite restaurant or retail shop: when you’re there, how do you feel? Are the surroundings austere or lush? What colors are used in the space? Are there artworks on display? What message do they convey about the business? The right surroundings, including the art, create a mood that speaks oceans about the character of your business. Experienced business owners Reggie and Sharlene Fouser know the importance of creating the right mood in their business’s location. When they … [Read more...] about Creating the Right Atmosphere
Pearls Before Guys
I like practical books. It’s fine to read about the exploits of successful business gurus. But I’m always left wondering if their success might be more a matter of luck than the sure-fire strategies they wave about with so much bravado – starting with the fact that most of them are men. Face it, ladies! We need practical advice. It really is harder for women to succeed – even now when more of us go to college and even though we are apparently much better hedge fund managers than men. That’s … [Read more...] about Pearls Before Guys
Heart Care and Aspirin Allergy
People who undergo cardiac procedures often get a new lease on life. Once again, their heart can pump blood to a body previously starved of oxygen. To remain successful, this new life has some non-negotiables: a nutritious diet, exercise and medication. For many, therapy includes a low dose “aspirin a day” regimen, which improves the outcome for cardiac patients. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for some people to have an aspirin allergy. Although aspirin is normally a well-tolerated drug, … [Read more...] about Heart Care and Aspirin Allergy