I don't advocate gambling. I believe that if you have a better use for the money you should spending it on that.
However, I am tired of people saying that people who gamble are one step away from losing everything and becoming homeless. Ok most exercise poor judgement and are to be pittied.
But, I think that all these opinions and feelings should be directed at people who binge drink. Binge drinkers can become alcoholics, lose everything and become homeless just as easily as problem gamblers. In a way they are worse because they can get into a car while drunk kill themselves, whoever is in the car and take out a couple of pedestrians on the way.
If we pittied them, shovelled the guilt on with an industrial sized shovel and stopped telling them how cool it is to drink that might help. I think someone should create an advertisement about how someone who has been drinking for 30 years looks at 50 compared to a light drinker or non drinkers. Maybe an appeal to vanity might reach the girls.
I don't think that the ads showing the seedy side of a night out drinking help. They see that every time they go out and are probably desensitised to it.
Throw away the cocktails and drink the mocktails. Anna
Monday, November 16, 2009
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
On The Infallible Violence Of Northern Ireland
A few days ago half of Northern Ireland donned their pretentious orange robes and marched around celebrating. The other half sighed and pretended not to notice, except for a few 'angry youths'. You see the Protestant side, comprising of the aptly named Orange Order, who obviously wear orange, march once a year to celebrate the Protestant English victories over Catholic Ireland. To the Irish Catholics this is a bit of a sore spot and the day has traditionally became one of violence and rioting - entire communities at war, attacking Orange Marchers and police. The big problem, and let me tell you it is a BIG problem, comes with the route the marchers take. Each year the Orange March takes a route that will take it through VERY Catholic neighbourhoods. Once in the Catholic neighbourhood they sing sectarian songs and have a jolly good time riling the residents. Each year it causes trouble. In the heyday of the Anglo-Irish war, back in the 60's and 70's each time the Orange order moved into a Catholic neighbourhood they would provoke a riot. One of these riots saw 120 Catholic homes burnt to the ground by Protestant mobs. All 120 homes were from the same neighbourhood. The 1st Light Infantry was called in from Liverpool to help police soothe tensions, one soldier recounted it as this: "When we took off from Liverpool there was a faint glow on the horizon. As we drew closer to Belfast we realised that glow was burning buildings. When we touched down it was like a scence from our days in Lebanon. Burnt out cars littered the streets, shop fronts were blown out and everything was destroyed. its was numbing to realise that this was happening in a part of the United Kingdom."
For many a year after, many wise people suggested banning the Orange March to prevent this kind of violence, but the Protestants would have none of it. "It is our right to celebrate our victories." Each year almost without fail the Orange Order marched into a Catholic neighbourhood and each year without fail rioting and affray ensued. Then, in 1998, after English prime Minister Tony Blair and Sinn Fein leader and IRA army council members Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness succededd in bringing peace, the IRA declared a ceasefire. For the first time in nearly forty years there was peace on the streets of Northern Ireland. The nation held its breath when the day of the Orange March came round. On strict orders from the leaders of the IRA no shots were fired, no bombs planted, no riots rioted. But what they lacked in physical violence they made up for in abuse. The songs of the Orange Order were drowned out by Irish nationalists screaming threats and abuse. Each year after that there were many scuffles but never a riot. The IRA it seemed were intent on keeping the peace. But all was not well. The Provisional IRA, the one I mention above had issued a ceasefire, but other factions, the Real IRA and the Original IRA were intent on the destruction of an English presence in Northern Ireland. In 2005 as the Orange Order marched through a catholic neighbourhood they suddenly noticed people on the rooftops to each side. They had walked right into a trap. The Orange Order, still drumming anti-Irish tunes ran for cover as the Catholic mob hurled home-made grenades and firebombs down on them. The police attempted to move in, only to suffer instant casualties. The fighting was so bad that at one stage every officer of West Belfast Police station was in hospital. After hours of heavy fighting the rioting stopped. More recently, only months ago the first soldiers to be killed in over a decade were shot dead outside their barracks. This was followed by a police officer. Unreported in the news three catholic workers were shot dead outside a pub by two UVF soldiers, the Protestant version of the IRA. Also unreported was the protestant UVF man stabbed to death shortly after by an IRA soldier, a revenge killing. Then only a week ago a bomb was located outside a protestant building, it was detonated with no harm done. Then only yesterday, the Orange Order in their infinite wisdom chose to march through Ardoyne, one of the most Nationalistic Catholic neighbourhoods in Belfast. Nine officers were injured, one teenager seriously injured as firebombs rained in from all sides.
But why such violence? Surely after a century of on/off fighting, starting in the 1890's and leading right through to today, they could have come to an agreement? Nope, they can't and nor will they. The Catholic side of Northern Ireland seek a unified Ireland, where they join the Republic of Ireland as an independent country from Britain. The Protestant side of Northern Ireland seek to remain part of Her Majesty's Empire. Both sides are willing to fight and die for their cause. Things have changed however, the corrupt Protestant government which went about gerrymandering to ensure the Catholics couldn't win any elections has been dissolved, the police who were comprised almost totally by Protestants has been reformed to ensure a fairer balance of justice and most importantly, the two sides sat down and talked for the first time ever.
So, the violence will, for the forseeable future continue - not as acts of war but as individual murders and small riots. In 2005 PIRA (Provisional Irish Republican Army) declared that, in conjuntion with the Indepentent International Commitee for Decommissioniong they had put their weaponry 'beyond use'. The Protestant paramilitaries, who said they'd only disarm once the IRA did have not yet disarmed a single weapon. And so, as Gerry Adams once said: "We viewed terrorism as a means to an end, not an end in itself" the IRA disarmed, paving the way for their political wing to take power. And what is the eventual outcome? Every British Prime Minister from 1960-1990 with the exception of that cranky old so and so Margaret Thatcher has recognised that the probable solution and inevitable outcome is a Unified Ireland. An Ireland free from british rule, free to pursue its own culture - for we all know that: "British culture just doesn't fit anybody not British". This would be an Ireland that for the first time in nearly a thousand years would be ruled by the Irish. Imagine that.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Mario’s Family History & Profile
Mario was born 14 June 1968, in the middle of winter. He shares a birthday with a diverse range of characters including Burl Ives, Boy George and Karl Alzheimer (the discoverer of the disease no named after him). June 14 was also the day that Paris fell to the Nazi’s in 1940. It was on this same day – 14 June 1968 – that Salvatore Quasimodo died. He was the only Italian to win the Nobel Prize for literature!
One of his parent’s was born in Italy, and the other was born in Australia, from Irish extraction. Mario’s father grew up in Avezzano in Northern Italy, about two hours from Rome. His mother was born in Dapto, and one of her parents comes from Kangaroo Valley, and her mother was born in Bowral.
Mario’s maternal grandfather grew working on the rail network throughout NSW, laying tracks. He moved from Kangaroo Valley to Oak Flats after getting married, and was one of the original settlers in Oak Flats. His paternal grandfather worked on farms, experiencing country life in Italy. Mario’s father lost his mother during childbirth, when he was only 4 years old. So Mario’s grandfather was responsible for bringing up the children.
When Mario’s father migrated to Australia in 1960, his father (Mario’s grandfather) died five years later. When he came to Australia, he worked in labouring roles in the building industries.
Early in his life, Mario experienced a near drowning experience in the bath, when he was 2 or 3 years old. He is now deaf in one ear, probably as a result of this accident. He also experienced childhood epilepsy, also probably related to the accident in the bath.
When he was legally able to attend school, he had to go to the Para Meadows Special School in Wollongong, which was the only school on the area that had the facilities for children who had some forms of disability, such as epilepsy. Public schools at the time did not have the facilities to handle children with epilepsy or other severe disabilities. Nor were such facilities available in the private school sector.
Mario left school at the age of about 16 years, as soon as he was legally able to. At Para Meadows, the school did not have the same year divisions as is common in other schools. Nor did the school offer public examinations such as the School Certificate. Due to this limited educational opportunities, Mario’s literacy and numeracy levels were not up to scratch, or to the standard levels of the time.
About the same time as Mario left school, his mother’s father died of a massive heart attack, whilst coming home from a wedding. He had Diabetes and was going blind in one eye. If he had survived, he would now be totally blind. His Diabetes came late in life. He had most of his toes removed, and used to tell Mario that the Galah’s had taken them.
A couple of days before he died, Mario was visiting him in Oak Flats Home, and took a photo of him on a chair, and then he died a few days later. The day he died, Mario’s grandfather rang the family, excited about going to the wedding that night, and then he died that night.
When he left school, Mario was employed at Greenacres for less than 6 months, which was all he could stand. Then Mario began TAFE and other training. But it was not until he was 30 that he began to undertake a lot more education courses. Undertaking the TAFE courses improved Mario’s literacy and numeracy skills. The more training he completed, the better he became, and the more able to learn.
Mario has two younger brothers. The second youngest has one son who is now 19 years old, and his youngest brother has a daughter who is about 13. Mario does not have any kids of his own.
Mario’s mother has two sisters, one of whom died many years ago. The sister died from Cancer about a year before Mario’s grandfather. The grandfather took this badly and never really got over his daughter’s death, until he died about a year later.
Mario has gained qualifications in many areas, such as:
· Certificates 2, 3 & 4 in Tourism
· Diploma of Tourism Operation Management
· Certificate 4 in Assessment Workplace Training
· Certificate 4 in Business
· Certificates 2, 3 & 4 in Retail
· Certificate 2 & 3 in Information Technology
He is presently studying:
· Certificate 4 in Web Site Design
· Diploma of Management
· Diploma of Media & Communication
· Advanced Diploma in Tourism Operation Management
· Certificate 4 Hospitality
· BA Undergraduate Degree specialising in Journalism from CQU
Most of Mario’s study has been carried out by distance education, although he has attended some face to face courses. Most of his current study is carried out on-line.
He has been involved in a number of business ventures, in areas such as film production, model management, retail, etc. Mario is currently creating web sites for on-line businesses that he will be a part of.
Mario enjoys country music, having grown up with an interest in country music from his mother’s family. This passion for Country music is shared by his mother, as well as his grandmother and grandfather, and his uncle and aunty and their children.
He remembers his grandfather singing Slim Dusty’s classic “The Pub with No Beer”, and since that time, Slim Dusty remains one of Mario’s favourite singers. Mario has many of Slim’s Albums, CD’s, Posters and other memorabilia. Mario has also attended many of his concerts before Slim’s death in 2003 after a long battle with cancer.
At the time of his death, Slim was working on another concert. He had been sick for many years, but kept performing for his fans. When Mario learnt of his idol’s death, he was distraught, and was throwing things and uncontrollable in his anger and grief. On the day of the funeral, Mario attended the funeral at St Anthony’s church in Sydney, along with his mother. As a State funeral, only invited members of the public and guests were allowed to attend, and Mario had to ring the State Government to ensure that he and his mother could attend.
With regards to Mario’s studies, he is hoping to gain suitable qualifications to gain employment in his choice of industry, in Australia or abroad. Mario is a shy person, who has difficulty in mixing well with people, who describes himself as a loner, who doesn’t have many friends. This is part of the motivation in studying, to be able to mix with others. He also uses the internet to chat on-line in chat rooms, with MSN, Yahoo, Face Book and My Space.
He is also stressing out about his age, and is increasingly concerned about his own mortality and health. The most important concern for Mario now is that, with all his study and other achievements, he wants to “settle down”, with a career, wife and children, and a steady life. The older he gets, he feels his “clock” winding down as it ticks away.
One of his parent’s was born in Italy, and the other was born in Australia, from Irish extraction. Mario’s father grew up in Avezzano in Northern Italy, about two hours from Rome. His mother was born in Dapto, and one of her parents comes from Kangaroo Valley, and her mother was born in Bowral.
Mario’s maternal grandfather grew working on the rail network throughout NSW, laying tracks. He moved from Kangaroo Valley to Oak Flats after getting married, and was one of the original settlers in Oak Flats. His paternal grandfather worked on farms, experiencing country life in Italy. Mario’s father lost his mother during childbirth, when he was only 4 years old. So Mario’s grandfather was responsible for bringing up the children.
When Mario’s father migrated to Australia in 1960, his father (Mario’s grandfather) died five years later. When he came to Australia, he worked in labouring roles in the building industries.
Early in his life, Mario experienced a near drowning experience in the bath, when he was 2 or 3 years old. He is now deaf in one ear, probably as a result of this accident. He also experienced childhood epilepsy, also probably related to the accident in the bath.
When he was legally able to attend school, he had to go to the Para Meadows Special School in Wollongong, which was the only school on the area that had the facilities for children who had some forms of disability, such as epilepsy. Public schools at the time did not have the facilities to handle children with epilepsy or other severe disabilities. Nor were such facilities available in the private school sector.
Mario left school at the age of about 16 years, as soon as he was legally able to. At Para Meadows, the school did not have the same year divisions as is common in other schools. Nor did the school offer public examinations such as the School Certificate. Due to this limited educational opportunities, Mario’s literacy and numeracy levels were not up to scratch, or to the standard levels of the time.
About the same time as Mario left school, his mother’s father died of a massive heart attack, whilst coming home from a wedding. He had Diabetes and was going blind in one eye. If he had survived, he would now be totally blind. His Diabetes came late in life. He had most of his toes removed, and used to tell Mario that the Galah’s had taken them.
A couple of days before he died, Mario was visiting him in Oak Flats Home, and took a photo of him on a chair, and then he died a few days later. The day he died, Mario’s grandfather rang the family, excited about going to the wedding that night, and then he died that night.
When he left school, Mario was employed at Greenacres for less than 6 months, which was all he could stand. Then Mario began TAFE and other training. But it was not until he was 30 that he began to undertake a lot more education courses. Undertaking the TAFE courses improved Mario’s literacy and numeracy skills. The more training he completed, the better he became, and the more able to learn.
Mario has two younger brothers. The second youngest has one son who is now 19 years old, and his youngest brother has a daughter who is about 13. Mario does not have any kids of his own.
Mario’s mother has two sisters, one of whom died many years ago. The sister died from Cancer about a year before Mario’s grandfather. The grandfather took this badly and never really got over his daughter’s death, until he died about a year later.
Mario has gained qualifications in many areas, such as:
· Certificates 2, 3 & 4 in Tourism
· Diploma of Tourism Operation Management
· Certificate 4 in Assessment Workplace Training
· Certificate 4 in Business
· Certificates 2, 3 & 4 in Retail
· Certificate 2 & 3 in Information Technology
He is presently studying:
· Certificate 4 in Web Site Design
· Diploma of Management
· Diploma of Media & Communication
· Advanced Diploma in Tourism Operation Management
· Certificate 4 Hospitality
· BA Undergraduate Degree specialising in Journalism from CQU
Most of Mario’s study has been carried out by distance education, although he has attended some face to face courses. Most of his current study is carried out on-line.
He has been involved in a number of business ventures, in areas such as film production, model management, retail, etc. Mario is currently creating web sites for on-line businesses that he will be a part of.
Mario enjoys country music, having grown up with an interest in country music from his mother’s family. This passion for Country music is shared by his mother, as well as his grandmother and grandfather, and his uncle and aunty and their children.
He remembers his grandfather singing Slim Dusty’s classic “The Pub with No Beer”, and since that time, Slim Dusty remains one of Mario’s favourite singers. Mario has many of Slim’s Albums, CD’s, Posters and other memorabilia. Mario has also attended many of his concerts before Slim’s death in 2003 after a long battle with cancer.
At the time of his death, Slim was working on another concert. He had been sick for many years, but kept performing for his fans. When Mario learnt of his idol’s death, he was distraught, and was throwing things and uncontrollable in his anger and grief. On the day of the funeral, Mario attended the funeral at St Anthony’s church in Sydney, along with his mother. As a State funeral, only invited members of the public and guests were allowed to attend, and Mario had to ring the State Government to ensure that he and his mother could attend.
With regards to Mario’s studies, he is hoping to gain suitable qualifications to gain employment in his choice of industry, in Australia or abroad. Mario is a shy person, who has difficulty in mixing well with people, who describes himself as a loner, who doesn’t have many friends. This is part of the motivation in studying, to be able to mix with others. He also uses the internet to chat on-line in chat rooms, with MSN, Yahoo, Face Book and My Space.
He is also stressing out about his age, and is increasingly concerned about his own mortality and health. The most important concern for Mario now is that, with all his study and other achievements, he wants to “settle down”, with a career, wife and children, and a steady life. The older he gets, he feels his “clock” winding down as it ticks away.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Look Out The Circus Is In Town
Here we go again. Political Finger Pointing at its very best. Wayne Swan has come out with the budget and it is exactly what we all expected. We now owe so much money I expect Large Russian Men to come around and break my knees.
I recently heard Mr. Turnbull say something along the lines of "What did you expect, they're Labor, you voted for them." You see Malcolm Turnbull thinks that Labor are the ones to blame for the thickset Russian knocking at his door. He seems to be ignoring the fact that, unless K-Rudd is a super-villian the likes of which the world has never seen, Labor couldn't possibly be responsible for the GLOBAL Economic Crisis (which due to our overuse of acronyms is now the GEC). You may notice 'global' spelt in capitals. This isn't because I accidentally bumped Caps Lock. It's because everybody in the world owes money, everybody has Burly Russians chasing them around with baseball bats. But Malcolm doesn't want to accept that. If he does it means he can't use it as his platform to get elected to President (we all know it's coming, the Republic of Australia).
And need I point out that the seeds of the GEC were planted a long, long time ago. Long before Kevin '07, and possibly even before Kevin '97.
But what can you do? Malcolm will always point fingers because he is a smarmy, sleazeball rich kid who is used to either getting what he wants or fobbing off the blame to the man-servant.
I will go down on record saying this: "Kevin Rudd will lose the next election, just as we come OUT of recession, and the Liberals will claim it was them who saved us. Then, in a few years time, we will go INTO recession just as RoboRudd gets re-elected, and the liberals will blame poor management by labor."
And how do I know this? Do I have a crystal ball? Tarot cards? Tea Leaves?
Nope. Just a history book. And history, as the saying goes, always repeats itself.
I recently heard Mr. Turnbull say something along the lines of "What did you expect, they're Labor, you voted for them." You see Malcolm Turnbull thinks that Labor are the ones to blame for the thickset Russian knocking at his door. He seems to be ignoring the fact that, unless K-Rudd is a super-villian the likes of which the world has never seen, Labor couldn't possibly be responsible for the GLOBAL Economic Crisis (which due to our overuse of acronyms is now the GEC). You may notice 'global' spelt in capitals. This isn't because I accidentally bumped Caps Lock. It's because everybody in the world owes money, everybody has Burly Russians chasing them around with baseball bats. But Malcolm doesn't want to accept that. If he does it means he can't use it as his platform to get elected to President (we all know it's coming, the Republic of Australia).
And need I point out that the seeds of the GEC were planted a long, long time ago. Long before Kevin '07, and possibly even before Kevin '97.
But what can you do? Malcolm will always point fingers because he is a smarmy, sleazeball rich kid who is used to either getting what he wants or fobbing off the blame to the man-servant.
I will go down on record saying this: "Kevin Rudd will lose the next election, just as we come OUT of recession, and the Liberals will claim it was them who saved us. Then, in a few years time, we will go INTO recession just as RoboRudd gets re-elected, and the liberals will blame poor management by labor."
And how do I know this? Do I have a crystal ball? Tarot cards? Tea Leaves?
Nope. Just a history book. And history, as the saying goes, always repeats itself.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Working in the 21st Century in Financial Services – A Profile
Working in the 21st Century involves a number of characteristics. Employment involves the use of technology, which is constantly changing. Therefore to be working successfully in the 21st Century, a person needs to be able to cope with the technology, and have the flexibility to work with the constant change that we currently experience.
I have chosen to review the career of Les Smith, who works at IMB Ltd. He has been the Branch Manager for Albion Park Branch of the Building Society for the past three years. He demonstrates characteristics of working in the 21st Century, as he currently works in the Financial Industry, although he also undertakes training work as well. Flexibility has been, and continues to be the core of Les’ career.
To work with IMB a person has to possess relevant Financial Industry qualifications such as Certificate 3 in Financial Services, which Les achieved through sponsorship from the IMB. The employer also enabled Les to gain the Certificate IV in Frontline Management. Les also possesses the Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment, which he is currently upgrading.
Similarly, Les has gained a number of recognised qualifications over the years, in areas as diverse as Creative Writing to Theology.
Three and a half years ago, when Les obtained the position of Branch Manager, he had not worked in the Financial Industry previously. IMB employed him, not for his experience or knowledge, but for his skills in people management, marketing and organisational ability. They then provided him with the training necessary to fulfil the role of middle management in a Financial Institution.
Previously, Les had 15 year’s experience in the Insurance Industry, which provided some experience which he has been able to translate into his present position. Les rose through the ranks of a major international Insurance Company to become NSW State Manager, based in Wollongong. When his Head Office insisted he return to Sydney for further advancement, Les allowed himself to be Head-hunted in order to remain in Wollongong.
After 3 year’s with his new employer, he was again under pressure to move to Sydney, so he left to start his own Computer Training Business.
For the 10 year’s prior to his appointment by IMB, Les ran his own Computer Training Company in the Albion Park area. It was the skills gained by this experience, as well as his knowledge of the local area that made him attractive to IMB. During the time of running his own business, Les built up an enviable reputation as a relaxed, fun, proficient trainer. He developed all his own training programs, and his notes are renowned for being comprehensive and easy to follow.
In regard to Les’ work habits, he always ensures that he is the first to arrive at his Branch, ensuring that the premises are secure (a major consideration with Financial Institutions), and all computer and other systems are fully operational, ready for his staff to attend to their duties. He places a great emphasis on staff training, and new employees to IMB are often placed temporarily in Albion Park Branch to receive comprehensive training.
Changing careers as Les did in his mid 50’s, has not been without its challenges. The move from being self-employed to being subject to other’s direction was particularly difficult for Les to adjust to. But it is a credit to his flexibility, that he is now acknowledged as one of IMB’s most respected Branch Managers.
The hallmark of Les’ business career has been flexibility. He has been able to move from industry to industry, and use the experiences he has gained in new and innovative ways. He has also always been ready to learn new skills and knowledge, constantly undertaking further training, both formally (such as the Certificate 3 & IV qualifications stated above) and informally, through Internet searching, reading books and similar activities.
This flexibility has been demonstrated by the variety of careers that Les has had. He has been a Teacher with Adult Education organisations, an insurance claims manager, insurance underwriter, marketing manager, trainer, Home loan lender and Personnel Manager.
It is a tribute to Les’ time management skills and stamina that he is able to maintain his computer training business while continuing to successfully work full time for IMB.
Working in the Financial Industry in today’s climate places a number of stresses on an individual. The Global Credit Crisis has caused an intense impact on the Financial Industry in Australia, and all employees working in it. There are unprecedented set of circumstances placing unique difficulties in the path of all Financial Institutions.
Volatility in interest rates makes it extremely difficult for people working in Finance to be able to advise customers on the best courses of action. This affects both the lending and investing side of finance.
One area of increasing conflict is the area of bank fees. It is recognised that financial institutions need to be profitable to continuing to exist, and the stress placed on the cost of financial institutions in acquiring the funds necessary for lending have meant that a number of banks have increased their fees as a means of survival. This has angered their customers, who see huge profits being announced, as well as highly valued employment packages being offered to senior bank executives.
As one of the member based financial institutions, IMB are answerable to their members, who are their customers, rather than answerable to shareholders. As a result, such member based organisations generally speaking, have a lower fee structure than the major banks. IMB have a fee philosophy that it will only impose fees that directly recoup expenses incurred. They do not regard collecting fees as a way of raising capital.
Les has found working with IMB, and changing career later in life has been an interesting, profitable challenge.
I have chosen to review the career of Les Smith, who works at IMB Ltd. He has been the Branch Manager for Albion Park Branch of the Building Society for the past three years. He demonstrates characteristics of working in the 21st Century, as he currently works in the Financial Industry, although he also undertakes training work as well. Flexibility has been, and continues to be the core of Les’ career.
To work with IMB a person has to possess relevant Financial Industry qualifications such as Certificate 3 in Financial Services, which Les achieved through sponsorship from the IMB. The employer also enabled Les to gain the Certificate IV in Frontline Management. Les also possesses the Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment, which he is currently upgrading.
Similarly, Les has gained a number of recognised qualifications over the years, in areas as diverse as Creative Writing to Theology.
Three and a half years ago, when Les obtained the position of Branch Manager, he had not worked in the Financial Industry previously. IMB employed him, not for his experience or knowledge, but for his skills in people management, marketing and organisational ability. They then provided him with the training necessary to fulfil the role of middle management in a Financial Institution.
Previously, Les had 15 year’s experience in the Insurance Industry, which provided some experience which he has been able to translate into his present position. Les rose through the ranks of a major international Insurance Company to become NSW State Manager, based in Wollongong. When his Head Office insisted he return to Sydney for further advancement, Les allowed himself to be Head-hunted in order to remain in Wollongong.
After 3 year’s with his new employer, he was again under pressure to move to Sydney, so he left to start his own Computer Training Business.
For the 10 year’s prior to his appointment by IMB, Les ran his own Computer Training Company in the Albion Park area. It was the skills gained by this experience, as well as his knowledge of the local area that made him attractive to IMB. During the time of running his own business, Les built up an enviable reputation as a relaxed, fun, proficient trainer. He developed all his own training programs, and his notes are renowned for being comprehensive and easy to follow.
In regard to Les’ work habits, he always ensures that he is the first to arrive at his Branch, ensuring that the premises are secure (a major consideration with Financial Institutions), and all computer and other systems are fully operational, ready for his staff to attend to their duties. He places a great emphasis on staff training, and new employees to IMB are often placed temporarily in Albion Park Branch to receive comprehensive training.
Changing careers as Les did in his mid 50’s, has not been without its challenges. The move from being self-employed to being subject to other’s direction was particularly difficult for Les to adjust to. But it is a credit to his flexibility, that he is now acknowledged as one of IMB’s most respected Branch Managers.
The hallmark of Les’ business career has been flexibility. He has been able to move from industry to industry, and use the experiences he has gained in new and innovative ways. He has also always been ready to learn new skills and knowledge, constantly undertaking further training, both formally (such as the Certificate 3 & IV qualifications stated above) and informally, through Internet searching, reading books and similar activities.
This flexibility has been demonstrated by the variety of careers that Les has had. He has been a Teacher with Adult Education organisations, an insurance claims manager, insurance underwriter, marketing manager, trainer, Home loan lender and Personnel Manager.
It is a tribute to Les’ time management skills and stamina that he is able to maintain his computer training business while continuing to successfully work full time for IMB.
Working in the Financial Industry in today’s climate places a number of stresses on an individual. The Global Credit Crisis has caused an intense impact on the Financial Industry in Australia, and all employees working in it. There are unprecedented set of circumstances placing unique difficulties in the path of all Financial Institutions.
Volatility in interest rates makes it extremely difficult for people working in Finance to be able to advise customers on the best courses of action. This affects both the lending and investing side of finance.
One area of increasing conflict is the area of bank fees. It is recognised that financial institutions need to be profitable to continuing to exist, and the stress placed on the cost of financial institutions in acquiring the funds necessary for lending have meant that a number of banks have increased their fees as a means of survival. This has angered their customers, who see huge profits being announced, as well as highly valued employment packages being offered to senior bank executives.
As one of the member based financial institutions, IMB are answerable to their members, who are their customers, rather than answerable to shareholders. As a result, such member based organisations generally speaking, have a lower fee structure than the major banks. IMB have a fee philosophy that it will only impose fees that directly recoup expenses incurred. They do not regard collecting fees as a way of raising capital.
Les has found working with IMB, and changing career later in life has been an interesting, profitable challenge.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Baptist Propaganda at Dapto Library
I know this may ruffle a few feathers. If it does, comment on it. Get a discussion going.
Recently, whilst perusing the shelves of the local Den of Books I stumbled upon a little leaflett stuck on the shelf.
"Hmm." Thought I. "I wonder what it is about."
That thought led me to stare unbelievably at the little leaflett in my hands. It was a booklet put out by the Illawarra Baptist somethingorother and it told me I was going to hell. Okay, nothing new there. Next to it was a purple booklet, which turned out to be a comic strip called "The Last Rites". In it, the main character, a good-man and a' church-every-sunday' Catholic dies. He gets the last Rites and goes to heaven, only to be denied a spot because Catholicism is actually Idolatory Goddess worship....
It even has a little picture of the pope:
Here, John is talking to God. Here, God quotes the Bible.
It also says: "Dear God, Thank You for showing me what you think about Catholocism. I also reject it."
If you want to read the entire comic, it can be found online --->here<---
^
Now come on. There is no room in today's society for literature like this. I'm not Catholic, nor ever likely to convert to Catholicism, but this is offensive to me. ME. The person who is almost impossible to offend. This hate literature was spread out over the entire science and also the religion section of the library. I spent half-an-hour picking up all the pamphlets. There are thirty all up. Believe it or not there was even a pamphlett on a motocross magazine... Why? Why do they think motocross riders need converting? Why do they think scientists and Buddhists and Muslims and Jews and anybody who isn't them needs to be converted and saved?
Do they really think that God will prevent any person from heaven because they chose to worship the Deity with a different name. Any god who would do this is not God. In fact any god who would deliberatly send somebody to hell is not a worthy God.
Here's a conundrum: Sociopathic Serial Killers - Born, or gain Sociopathic tendencies. If they are born with this sociopathy or psychopathy then it is reasonable to conclude that god made them this way. If God made them this way, knowing they would turn into serial killers and be sent to hell, then is that a god worthy of worship?
I personally like to think that everybody is worthy of a spot in the next place, should it exist. Eternal punishment for a few earthly mistakes seems a bit harsh.
In the end , i'm just a mug with an opinion. I've shared mine, you share yours.
Sorry if I offend anybody, if I did, well, too late now to help it.
Recently, whilst perusing the shelves of the local Den of Books I stumbled upon a little leaflett stuck on the shelf.
"Hmm." Thought I. "I wonder what it is about."
That thought led me to stare unbelievably at the little leaflett in my hands. It was a booklet put out by the Illawarra Baptist somethingorother and it told me I was going to hell. Okay, nothing new there. Next to it was a purple booklet, which turned out to be a comic strip called "The Last Rites". In it, the main character, a good-man and a' church-every-sunday' Catholic dies. He gets the last Rites and goes to heaven, only to be denied a spot because Catholicism is actually Idolatory Goddess worship....
It even has a little picture of the pope:
Here, John is talking to God. Here, God quotes the Bible.
It also says: "Dear God, Thank You for showing me what you think about Catholocism. I also reject it."
If you want to read the entire comic, it can be found online --->here<---
^
Now come on. There is no room in today's society for literature like this. I'm not Catholic, nor ever likely to convert to Catholicism, but this is offensive to me. ME. The person who is almost impossible to offend. This hate literature was spread out over the entire science and also the religion section of the library. I spent half-an-hour picking up all the pamphlets. There are thirty all up. Believe it or not there was even a pamphlett on a motocross magazine... Why? Why do they think motocross riders need converting? Why do they think scientists and Buddhists and Muslims and Jews and anybody who isn't them needs to be converted and saved?
Do they really think that God will prevent any person from heaven because they chose to worship the Deity with a different name. Any god who would do this is not God. In fact any god who would deliberatly send somebody to hell is not a worthy God.
Here's a conundrum: Sociopathic Serial Killers - Born, or gain Sociopathic tendencies. If they are born with this sociopathy or psychopathy then it is reasonable to conclude that god made them this way. If God made them this way, knowing they would turn into serial killers and be sent to hell, then is that a god worthy of worship?
I personally like to think that everybody is worthy of a spot in the next place, should it exist. Eternal punishment for a few earthly mistakes seems a bit harsh.
In the end , i'm just a mug with an opinion. I've shared mine, you share yours.
Sorry if I offend anybody, if I did, well, too late now to help it.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Why you should keep on smoking!
I bet you’re sick of the non-smokers in your family nagging you to stop smoking. I really feel for you so I’ve compiled a list of all the reasons you should keep on smoking.
Smoking is part of your identity. You’re a smoker now and you will always be a smoker. You are a smoker and that makes you special. It makes you a cool rebel. After all “everyone” smokes and “everyone” can’t be wrong.
You have a reason to spend money on yourself. No one can accuse you of being selfish. You can’t help it. You’re addicted to smoking. Besides it’s your money. You can spend it on whatever you like.
All those little annoying smoking related symptoms like smoker’s cough can really pay off. This gets you lots of sympathy and gives you something to complain about. When someone gets sick of your whinging you can elicit even more sympathy and start whinging about how you’re addicted.
Who needs the biggest loser? Smoking keeps the weight off. It keeps you from putting food in your mouth. You buy less food because smoking is so expensive.
Speaking of money. Smoking gives you the perfect excuse to borrow money. Even if you have half a packet of cigarettes left it’s a built in reason to borrow money. Another bonus is that people who are dumb enough to lend you money for cigarettes know that you won’t pay them back and won’t expect you to because you’re always broke because you smoke.
At work you have an excuse to take more breaks than non-smokers. If your boss is a smoker this is even better. He’s not going to complain about you not pulling your weight because he’s probably outside smoking with you. This is a great time to get inside information, ask for a raise or ask for a promotion. You can also get your rival fired because you have the boss’s ear. You can also gossip about non-smokers.
You can meet and bond with other smokers. If you see someone smoking you can go up to him or her and ask him or her if you can use their lighter. It immediately gives you common ground because you can talk about which cigarette brands are the best, which you prefer, etc. You understand each other. You can both whinge about people who try to stop you from smoking.
Now that I have your attention I can say don’t be a fool, smoking isn’t cool. If you want to stop smoking you can. Lots of people give up smoking many times so there's proof it can be done. If you want it to be permanent don’t label yourself. Don’t call yourself an ex-smoker or even a non-smoker. Don’t talk about when you used to smoke. Forget you ever had a cigarette. If someone offers you a cigarette say "no thanks." Don’t say "I don’t smoke anymore" because they will push you to accept a cigarette. Don’t think or act like you’re making the biggest sacrifice because you’ll talk yourself into feeling deprived and you’ll start smoking again. If smoking is so great why is everyone trying to give it up? Why do people, even smokers themselves, talk about the negative aspects like it makes your breath smell, it’s expensive and it’s bad for your health? No one, not even smokers go on about all the good things about smoking. They may say they like it but then in the same breath they say they want to give it up. People who don’t smoke don’t think that they’re missing out.
I bet you’re sick of the non-smokers in your family nagging you to stop smoking. I really feel for you so I’ve compiled a list of all the reasons you should keep on smoking.
Smoking is part of your identity. You’re a smoker now and you will always be a smoker. You are a smoker and that makes you special. It makes you a cool rebel. After all “everyone” smokes and “everyone” can’t be wrong.
You have a reason to spend money on yourself. No one can accuse you of being selfish. You can’t help it. You’re addicted to smoking. Besides it’s your money. You can spend it on whatever you like.
All those little annoying smoking related symptoms like smoker’s cough can really pay off. This gets you lots of sympathy and gives you something to complain about. When someone gets sick of your whinging you can elicit even more sympathy and start whinging about how you’re addicted.
Who needs the biggest loser? Smoking keeps the weight off. It keeps you from putting food in your mouth. You buy less food because smoking is so expensive.
Speaking of money. Smoking gives you the perfect excuse to borrow money. Even if you have half a packet of cigarettes left it’s a built in reason to borrow money. Another bonus is that people who are dumb enough to lend you money for cigarettes know that you won’t pay them back and won’t expect you to because you’re always broke because you smoke.
At work you have an excuse to take more breaks than non-smokers. If your boss is a smoker this is even better. He’s not going to complain about you not pulling your weight because he’s probably outside smoking with you. This is a great time to get inside information, ask for a raise or ask for a promotion. You can also get your rival fired because you have the boss’s ear. You can also gossip about non-smokers.
You can meet and bond with other smokers. If you see someone smoking you can go up to him or her and ask him or her if you can use their lighter. It immediately gives you common ground because you can talk about which cigarette brands are the best, which you prefer, etc. You understand each other. You can both whinge about people who try to stop you from smoking.
Now that I have your attention I can say don’t be a fool, smoking isn’t cool. If you want to stop smoking you can. Lots of people give up smoking many times so there's proof it can be done. If you want it to be permanent don’t label yourself. Don’t call yourself an ex-smoker or even a non-smoker. Don’t talk about when you used to smoke. Forget you ever had a cigarette. If someone offers you a cigarette say "no thanks." Don’t say "I don’t smoke anymore" because they will push you to accept a cigarette. Don’t think or act like you’re making the biggest sacrifice because you’ll talk yourself into feeling deprived and you’ll start smoking again. If smoking is so great why is everyone trying to give it up? Why do people, even smokers themselves, talk about the negative aspects like it makes your breath smell, it’s expensive and it’s bad for your health? No one, not even smokers go on about all the good things about smoking. They may say they like it but then in the same breath they say they want to give it up. People who don’t smoke don’t think that they’re missing out.
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