Atlanta has placed five players on MLB.com's Top 100 Prospects list for the upcoming season. Julio Teheran leads this group as he ranks fourth on the overall list, second among pitchers and first among right-handed pitchers. The 20-year-old right-hander ranked as the 10th-best prospect last year.
Two other Braves pitchers -- Arodys Vizcaino (36) and Randall Delgado (42) -- rank among the game's Top 50 prospects. The organization's other additions to this year's Top 100 list are shortstop Andrelton Simmons (65) and catcher Christian Bethancourt (91).
via Braves land five prospects on Top 100 list | braves.com: News.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Braves land five prospects on Top 100 list
Now here is some good news. I am a firm believer that with the right investments, the Atlanta Braves can continue to improve this year. This is a good sign.
Bill Johnson - Reformation Through Loyalty
[youtube http://youtube.com/w/?v=y7OFTHhpqfY&feature=youtube_gdata_player]
Bill uses Daniel as an example of how we can bring about transformation in a corrupted kingdom, how we are called to be light on a hill, leaven in a lump of dough, and salt that preserves the world we are in. Bill talks about Daniel's radical loyalty and it produced a radical redemption in Nebuchadnezzar's life.
At the heart of it, it's about not holding people's sins against them (2 Cor 5:18-19), it's about loving anyone that crosses our path, meaning, we want nothing other than to serve and benefit them, because it's kindness that draws repentance (Rom 2:4)
Check out Bill Johnson's site:
http://bjm.org/home.html
The full version of this message can be found at:
http://www.ibethel.tv/watch/23
iBethel.Tv is a production of Bethel Church,
http://www.ibethel.org
Bill uses Daniel as an example of how we can bring about transformation in a corrupted kingdom, how we are called to be light on a hill, leaven in a lump of dough, and salt that preserves the world we are in. Bill talks about Daniel's radical loyalty and it produced a radical redemption in Nebuchadnezzar's life.
At the heart of it, it's about not holding people's sins against them (2 Cor 5:18-19), it's about loving anyone that crosses our path, meaning, we want nothing other than to serve and benefit them, because it's kindness that draws repentance (Rom 2:4)
Check out Bill Johnson's site:
http://bjm.org/home.html
The full version of this message can be found at:
http://www.ibethel.tv/watch/23
iBethel.Tv is a production of Bethel Church,
http://www.ibethel.org
Atlanta Braves CEO Terry McGuirk discusses payroll (Can we Moneyball it this year?)
I don't know what to make of this. I am generally a "Moneyball" fan but this level of commitment doesn't seem like it will get the Atlanta Braves to where they need to go. It is interesting that this is half of what the Division winning Philadelphia team spent last year. What do you think? Can we "Moneyball" it this year?
The Atlanta Braves have set a player payroll budget of $94 million for this year, leaving them with several million dollars still to spend, the team’s chairman and CEO said.
Terry McGuirk, in a wide-ranging interview with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution in his Turner Field office, also said team owner Liberty Media has expressed no intention of selling the club.
And on another significant note, McGuirk disclosed that the Braves are locked into 25-year local TV contracts that will prevent the franchise from cashing in on Major League Baseball’s trend toward dramatically higher telecast rights fees.
The issues of payroll, ownership and TV rights are integral to the business of the Braves or any major professional sports franchise. Here is more of what McGuirk had to say about those topics:
McGuirk defended the Braves’ payroll, which ranks near the middle among MLB teams and has drawn sharp criticism from some fans during an offseason that has seen the team make no major acquisitions.
He said the Braves have “a little over $90 million right now” committed toward 2012 salaries and will reach the previously undisclosed $94 million budget, up slightly from last year, with acquisitions before or during the season.
“We will be spending 94 this year,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of young guys to look at in spring training. There are still decisions to be made.”
McGuirk said a $94 million payroll is the maximum amount supported by the Braves’ projected revenue, contending the team will operate at that level with “no profitability, no free cash flow.” The Braves ranked 15th in MLB in attendance last season, about the same as in payroll.
McGuirk acknowledged that a $94 million payroll “will look more like $84 million in actual players on the ground” because the team will pay $10 million toward pitcher Derek Lowe’s salary, even though Lowe -- ineffective last season -- was traded to the Cleveland Indians in October.
McGuirk made no apologies for the Braves’ payroll, which was barely half as large as NL East winner Philadelphia’s last season, or for their absence in recent years from competing for top-dollar free agents.
via Ledger-Enquirer.com | 01/29/2012 | Atlanta Braves CEO Terry McGuirk discusses payroll, ownership, TV deals.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Kris Vallotton - Living by Virtues
Check out this videoby Kris Vallotton on virtues. He is masterful at refuting our current culture and what God's word says about virtues.
[youtube http://youtube.com/w/?v=DnZ38dqYbME&feature=youtube_gdata_player]
[youtube http://youtube.com/w/?v=DnZ38dqYbME&feature=youtube_gdata_player]
Atlanta Braves History: Fred Tenney "volunteers" to play in Boston (1894)
On June 16, 1894, despite scoring 26 runs in the 3-game series‚ Louisville is swept by Boston‚ extending its losing streak to 18 games. The streak will reach 20 games before the Colonels manage to win. The next day‚ Fred Tenney‚ star catcher of Brown University‚ "volunteers" to play for Boston. He gets his first hit‚ drives in 2 runs and scores‚ before breaking his finger while catching in the 5th inning. He'll return to action in 5 weeks. In the 1890's, it was rare for a college graduate to play baseball. Fred would become one of the first.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Atlanta Braves History: Dale Murphy - Some after retirement activities
Some players struggle with what to do after retirement. It can be a challenge when most of your life has been playing a sport. After retiring from baseball, Dale Murphy served from 1997 to 2000 as president of the Massachusetts Boston Mission of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was said to be considering a run for Utah governor in 2004, but failed to generate enough interest within the Republican Party. In 2008, he was appointed to the National Advisory Board for the national children's charity Operation Kids. He currently lives in Alpine, Utah. Murphy serves as a National Advisor to ASCEND: A Humanitarian Alliance.
In 2005 Murphy started a non-profit organization called the iWontCheat Foundation to promote ethical behavior, and deter steroid use and cheating in youth athletics. Since 2008 all players from the participating teams at the Little League World Series wear the "i WON'T CHEAT!" embroidered patch above the Little League Baseball logo on the left sleeve of their jerseys.
In 2005 Murphy started a non-profit organization called the iWontCheat Foundation to promote ethical behavior, and deter steroid use and cheating in youth athletics. Since 2008 all players from the participating teams at the Little League World Series wear the "i WON'T CHEAT!" embroidered patch above the Little League Baseball logo on the left sleeve of their jerseys.
Atlanta Braves History - Fred Tenney (1894-1907, 1911)
Fred Tenney played for the Braves when they were know as the Beaneaters, Doves and Rustlers (1894-1907, 1911). He was a first baseman, outfielder, catcher and pitcher. Clearly very versatile. He was born in Georgetown, Massachusetts on November 26, 1871 and passed away on July 3, 1952. He batted and threw as a lefty.
He was truly one of the pioneers in the early years of the game. He was also an amazing first baseman. The Beaneaters great manager, Frank Selee had already won 3 pennants when he spotted Fred. In that day, he was a pretty rare prospect as a left handed catcher. But Selee could spot talent and Tenney would help him win two more pennants and a place in history as the greatest team in the 1890's.
He was truly one of the pioneers in the early years of the game. He was also an amazing first baseman. The Beaneaters great manager, Frank Selee had already won 3 pennants when he spotted Fred. In that day, he was a pretty rare prospect as a left handed catcher. But Selee could spot talent and Tenney would help him win two more pennants and a place in history as the greatest team in the 1890's.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Friday, January 27, 2012
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Technology for empowered employees
Earlier in the week I was on a Forrester call on empowered technology. Here is a good graphic on technology we ought to pay attention to based on business value and time to reach adoption. We need to challenge ourselves to know something about all of these. Good list for learning. The other great thing is we are already on top of a number of these so we are in a good place. What do you think? Where should we focus our strategies?
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Am I willing to dance in the bright light of Jesus?
He is the light. He is the only light.
Will I dance in His light for all to see?
Yes, my Lord, I will.
Will I dance in His light for all to see?
Yes, my Lord, I will.
Monday, January 23, 2012
The Obama administration is keeping its birth control rules
Despite major objections from Christians, the Obama administration refused to scrap a rule that will require most employers to offer health insurance that provides FDA-approved contraceptives with no copayments or deductibles, the WSJ reports. There is an exemption for certain employers if birth control violates their religious beliefs, and those who object but don’t qualify for the exemption have until August 2013 to change their policies, the WSJ says.
Hard to believe.
Hard to believe.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Patriots head to the Super Bowl
The New England Patriots are going to the Super Bowl.
Baltimore Ravens kicker Billy Cundiff missed a 32-yard field goal in the closing seconds of the AFC title game. It went wide left. If Cundiff had made it, the game would have gone to OT. The Ravens sideline looked on with wide mouthed disbelief. The Patriots won 23-20.
It was an amazing game that went back and forth. Patriots QB Tom Brady had a subpar game. After completing six touchdown passes last week against Denver, Brady did not have a single touchdown pass against the Ravens. But the Pats defense picked up the slack especially defensive tackle Vince Wilfork who had six tackles and one sack of Ravens QB Joe Flacco. As Brady just said himself, "I sucked pretty bad but our defense saved us." Nonetheless, Brady will start his fifth Super Bowl which ties him with John Elway. This is also Brady's 16th post-season win tying him with Joe Montana.
Baltimore Ravens kicker Billy Cundiff missed a 32-yard field goal in the closing seconds of the AFC title game. It went wide left. If Cundiff had made it, the game would have gone to OT. The Ravens sideline looked on with wide mouthed disbelief. The Patriots won 23-20.
It was an amazing game that went back and forth. Patriots QB Tom Brady had a subpar game. After completing six touchdown passes last week against Denver, Brady did not have a single touchdown pass against the Ravens. But the Pats defense picked up the slack especially defensive tackle Vince Wilfork who had six tackles and one sack of Ravens QB Joe Flacco. As Brady just said himself, "I sucked pretty bad but our defense saved us." Nonetheless, Brady will start his fifth Super Bowl which ties him with John Elway. This is also Brady's 16th post-season win tying him with Joe Montana.
Some thoughts on Joe Paterno's death ... may he rest in peace!!
Former Penn State head coach Joe Paterno has died of complications from lung cancer. He was 85. I am so sad about this. Joe was an amazing football coach. He had been associated with Penn State's football program for more than sixty years, first as an assistant coach before taking over as head coach in 1966. Paterno led Penn State to over 400 victories, two national championships and had the distinction of being the only head coach to have his team appear in the Rose Bowl, Orange Bowl, Fiesta Bowl and the Sugar Bowl.
However, Joe will also be remembered for his part in the sex abuse scandal involving his long time assistant coach Jerry Sandusky. After Sandusky was charged, Penn State fired Paterno in November after it became known that he was informed of Sandusky's conduct and did not contact local authorities.
Days after his firing, Paterno's son stated his father had been diagnosed with a treatable form of lung cancer. Who knows some days how it will end. Unfortunately, and this is the sad part, he started better than he finished. So very sad.
Earlier this month, Paterno was replaced as Penn State head coach by New England Patriots offensive co-ordinator Bill O'Brien.
So ... what will we remember Joe for. I hope, over time, the great coach he was. He deserves the benefit of the doubt.
May he rest in peace.
However, Joe will also be remembered for his part in the sex abuse scandal involving his long time assistant coach Jerry Sandusky. After Sandusky was charged, Penn State fired Paterno in November after it became known that he was informed of Sandusky's conduct and did not contact local authorities.
Days after his firing, Paterno's son stated his father had been diagnosed with a treatable form of lung cancer. Who knows some days how it will end. Unfortunately, and this is the sad part, he started better than he finished. So very sad.
Earlier this month, Paterno was replaced as Penn State head coach by New England Patriots offensive co-ordinator Bill O'Brien.
So ... what will we remember Joe for. I hope, over time, the great coach he was. He deserves the benefit of the doubt.
May he rest in peace.
Atlanta Braves History: Dale Murphy - He is also an author
Dale Murphy is talented in many ways. He has written three books. The first, The Scouting Report on Professional Athletics, elaborates details of the professional athlete's lifestyle. Murphy discusses balancing career and family, working with agents, managing business affairs, serving one's community, and preparing for retirement.
In his second book, an autobiography entitled Murph, he talked about his religious faith. He discussed the struggles of his early baseball career and how he overcame problems.
In 2007 Murphy wrote his third book, The Scouting Report for Youth Athletics, in response to what he saw as the increase in negative behavior in youth sports resulting from poor examples set by professional athletes. Included with each book is a 50-page insert which includes contributions from, among others, Peyton Manning, Dwyane Wade, Tom Glavine, and Danica Patrick. In a question-and-answer format, they discuss the lessons they learned from youth sports and how they apply the lessons today. There is also a physician-penned section about illegal performance-enhancing drug use in sports.
Murphy and his wife, Nancy, have eight children. They are sons Chad, Travis, Shawn, Tyson, Taylor, Jake, McKay and daughter, Madison. His son Shawn has played football for the National Football League.
In his second book, an autobiography entitled Murph, he talked about his religious faith. He discussed the struggles of his early baseball career and how he overcame problems.
In 2007 Murphy wrote his third book, The Scouting Report for Youth Athletics, in response to what he saw as the increase in negative behavior in youth sports resulting from poor examples set by professional athletes. Included with each book is a 50-page insert which includes contributions from, among others, Peyton Manning, Dwyane Wade, Tom Glavine, and Danica Patrick. In a question-and-answer format, they discuss the lessons they learned from youth sports and how they apply the lessons today. There is also a physician-penned section about illegal performance-enhancing drug use in sports.
Murphy and his wife, Nancy, have eight children. They are sons Chad, Travis, Shawn, Tyson, Taylor, Jake, McKay and daughter, Madison. His son Shawn has played football for the National Football League.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Nothing sparse at all: A Poem
He has always been supreme.
He was in the beginning and
He will be in the end.
He is leading the resurrection parade.
The Captain in the lead.
He is there for me from the beginning
to the end.
He is always there, never leaving.
He towers strong and mighty
above everything and everyone.
No one can match His marvelous love.
He is spacious in His love.
He has so much room
there is nothing sparse in His love at all.
He has so much room in His love
that everything finds its place
without any crowding at all.
everything dislocated,
everything out of place
and put it all together again.
He has put it all together in harmony.
Nothing out of place.
All fitting in His spacious room of love.
He did this through His blood
and His death.
That precious blood
that poured down from the cross.
of what He can do through His love.
I had turned my back on Him.
I had rebellious thoughts day and night.
I gave Him trouble every chance I got.
But now I have given myself completely to the cross,
knowing He actually died for me.
I am made whole and holy in His love.
I can’t walk away from a gift like that.
I must stay grounded.
I must stay steady.
I must honor that bond of trust.
I must stay constantly tuned in to His Message.
I must lean in and hear what He is saying.
There is no other message at all.
This is the only message.
Every creature in heaven
and earth gets the same message.
May I be His faithful messenger.
He has taken everything broken,
I am a case study.
I am His completely.
He was in the beginning and
He will be in the end.
He is leading the resurrection parade.
The Captain in the lead.
He is there for me from the beginning
to the end.
He is always there, never leaving.
He towers strong and mighty
above everything and everyone.
No one can match His marvelous love.
He is spacious in His love.
He has so much room
there is nothing sparse in His love at all.
He has so much room in His love
that everything finds its place
without any crowding at all.
everything dislocated,
everything out of place
and put it all together again.
He has put it all together in harmony.
Nothing out of place.
All fitting in His spacious room of love.
He did this through His blood
and His death.
That precious blood
that poured down from the cross.
of what He can do through His love.
I had turned my back on Him.
I had rebellious thoughts day and night.
I gave Him trouble every chance I got.
But now I have given myself completely to the cross,
knowing He actually died for me.
I am made whole and holy in His love.
I can’t walk away from a gift like that.
I must stay grounded.
I must stay steady.
I must honor that bond of trust.
I must stay constantly tuned in to His Message.
I must lean in and hear what He is saying.
There is no other message at all.
This is the only message.
Every creature in heaven
and earth gets the same message.
May I be His faithful messenger.
He has taken everything broken,
I am a case study.
I am His completely.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Will I allow God to demolish a massively corrupt culture?
All it takes is to watch the evening news to know we live in a massively corrupt culture. Our Father has given us tools to demolish that culture. To bring it right down. But I can’t fight it the same way the world does. My tools are different. Will I allow God to demolish it in my life?
May I live a life of obedience into maturity. May I receive the good news of God's new goal for me. May I not miss it in my life today.
May I live a life of obedience into maturity. May I receive the good news of God's new goal for me. May I not miss it in my life today.
The world is unprincipled. It’s dog-eat-dog out there! The world doesn’t fight fair. But we don’t live or fight our battles that way—never have and never will. The tools of our trade aren’t for marketing or manipulation, but they are for demolishing that entire massively corrupt culture. We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity. 2 Corinthians 10
Am I humble enough?
Am I humble enough? Not yet and that is important to understand.
Who gets the credit? That is a central question. In God's world that He rules (the Kingdom), God gets the credit. The victory belongs to the Lord. Humility is central to relationships. Central to my relationship with Him. Central to my relationship with others. Love does not boast. That is how I bless others and receive a blessing.
May I always give the Lord the credit. He is God. He is good. He is great.
Who gets the credit? That is a central question. In God's world that He rules (the Kingdom), God gets the credit. The victory belongs to the Lord. Humility is central to relationships. Central to my relationship with Him. Central to my relationship with others. Love does not boast. That is how I bless others and receive a blessing.
May I always give the Lord the credit. He is God. He is good. He is great.
Summing up: Be agreeable, be sympathetic, be loving, be compassionate, be humble. That goes for all of you, no exceptions. No retaliation. No sharp-tongued sarcasm. Instead, bless—that’s your job, to bless. You’ll be a blessing and also get a blessing. 1 Peter 3:8-12
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Are you boarding the wrong train? Some thoughts from Dietrich Bonhoeffer
This is so very important. Think about it. Am I on the right train? Am I following Jesus?
"If you board the wrong train, it is no use running along the corridor in the other direction." ~~Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Blackbaud announces intent to buy Convio
We are customers of both companies but this clearly changes the game for our services for our customers. It will be interesting to see the shake out. No "official word" yet from them to us directly. Waiting for that to happen.
Blackbaud, Inc. (NASDAQ: BLKB), the leading provider of software and related services designed for nonprofit organizations, announced today that it has entered into a definitive merger agreement with Convio, Inc. (NASDAQ: CNVO), a leading provider of on-demand constituent engagement solutions that enable nonprofit organizations to more effectively raise funds, advocate for change and cultivate relationships.
via Blackbaud, Inc. Announces Agreement To Acquire Convio - TheStreet.
What do you think?
Monday, January 16, 2012
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Does God want you to live a pure life?
The Apostle Paul nails it. God wants us to live a pure life. No doubt about it. He makes it clear it isn't about plodding along like some religious zombie. Nope. It's about living a spirited dance with God our Father. It's about pleasing God. When you love someone you want to please them. It's not about "they said so". It's about a living relationship. God wants that. That brings purity in His eyes.
One final word, friends. We ask you—urge is more like it—that you keep on doing what we told you to do to please God, not in a dogged religious plod, but in a living, spirited dance. You know the guidelines we laid out for you from the Master Jesus. God wants you to live a pure life.
via 1 Thessalonians 4:3 - Youre God Taught One final word friends - Bible Gateway.
Without good direction, people lose their way; the more wise counsel you follow, the better your chances. ~~King Solomon
We all need direction. Our vision is always limited. Having trusted advisors makes a difference.
Who am I listening to? Are they wise?
Who am I listening to? Are they wise?
Without good direction, people lose their way; the more wise counsel you follow, the better your chances. ~~King Solomon (Proverbs 11:14)
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Will I say to God, "I'll go. Send me."?
Isaiah was an amazing man of God. He stood in God's presence. He knew God intimately. One day he heard God say "Whom will I send?"
He didn't look around and look and see who he was talking to. God wasn't necessarily talking to Isaiah. God needed someone to go on a mission for Him.
Isaiah answered even though God wasn't talking to him. He was ready and had a heart to go.
He didn't look around and look and see who he was talking to. God wasn't necessarily talking to Isaiah. God needed someone to go on a mission for Him.
Isaiah answered even though God wasn't talking to him. He was ready and had a heart to go.
And then I heard the voice of the Master:
"Whom shall I send?
Who will go for us?"
I spoke up,
"I'll go.
Send me!"
via Isaiah 6:8 MSG - Holy Holy Holy In the year that King - Bible Gateway.
Friday, January 13, 2012
Am I offended by Jesus?
In His hometown, the people He grew up with were offended by Jesus. While they knew Him, they didn’t see what He was doing now. They saw Him for who he was, not who He is. They were stubborn and refused to open up to Him in His fullness of power.
May I see Jesus for who He is today!! May I see what He is doing, not what He is not doing.
May I see Jesus for who He is today!! May I see what He is doing, not what He is not doing.
Jesus told them, ‘A prophet has little honor in his hometown, among his relatives, on the streets he played in as a child.’ Jesus wasn’t able to do much of anything there—he laid hands on a few sick people and healed them, that’s all. He couldn’t get over their stubbornness. He left and made a circuit of the other villages, teaching. Mark 6:1-6
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Atlanta Braves History: Dale Murphy - What a career!
Dale Murphy's number 3 was retired by the Atlanta Braves in 1994. What a glorious day that was.
Murphy finished his career with 398 home runs (19th in MLB history at the time of his retirement) and a .265 lifetime batting average. His MVP awards in 1982 and 1983 make him one of only four outfielders in major league history with consecutive MVP years; at the time, he was the youngest to have accomplished the feat. His many honors also include seven All-Star appearances, five Gold Gloves, and four Silver Sluggers. Murphy led the National League in home runs and RBI twice; he also led the major leagues in home runs and runs batted in over the 10-year span from 1981 to 1990.
One of the most productive and decorated players of the 1980s, Murphy led the National League in games, at bats, runs, hits, extra base hits, RBIs, runs created, total bases, and plate appearances during the decade. He also accomplished a 30-30 (30 home runs with 30 stolen bases) season in 1983. Murphy played in 740 consecutive games, at the time the 11th longest such streak in baseball history. His jersey number ("3") was retired by the Atlanta Braves on June 13, 1994. In 1997, Murphy was inducted into the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame & Museum.
I think you have to love Dale Murphy as an Atlanta Brave. What a career!!
Murphy finished his career with 398 home runs (19th in MLB history at the time of his retirement) and a .265 lifetime batting average. His MVP awards in 1982 and 1983 make him one of only four outfielders in major league history with consecutive MVP years; at the time, he was the youngest to have accomplished the feat. His many honors also include seven All-Star appearances, five Gold Gloves, and four Silver Sluggers. Murphy led the National League in home runs and RBI twice; he also led the major leagues in home runs and runs batted in over the 10-year span from 1981 to 1990.
One of the most productive and decorated players of the 1980s, Murphy led the National League in games, at bats, runs, hits, extra base hits, RBIs, runs created, total bases, and plate appearances during the decade. He also accomplished a 30-30 (30 home runs with 30 stolen bases) season in 1983. Murphy played in 740 consecutive games, at the time the 11th longest such streak in baseball history. His jersey number ("3") was retired by the Atlanta Braves on June 13, 1994. In 1997, Murphy was inducted into the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame & Museum.
I think you have to love Dale Murphy as an Atlanta Brave. What a career!!
Advocacy, technology and You’re the Cure network
Mark Schoeberl, our VP of Advocacy and Health Quality is updating us on his world. Always interesting. Always engaging. Our passion and mission translated to action. We are great partners with his department.
Please join the You're the Cure network. It is easy and it works. And yes, we fund it.
Technology project updates
Our project managers are giving our Managers and Supervisors a quick update on some high priority projects. Some we are hearing about are:
- ECC-LMS Project – Dan Hrnack
- Vision for Volunteerism– Bob Stillwell
(Community Planning Tool Migration to SharePoint Extranet ) - Pay Cycle Project – John Farmer
- Applicant Tracking System Project – Carrie Weeks
- Enterprise Financial Reporting Tool Project – Patricia Ashmore
- Food Certification Anywhere – Gloria Williams
- Research Application Fee – Gloria Williams
Check out the presentation for a quick overview. The focus is on providing value to our business partners. That goes way beyond being within scope, on time, etc.
Customer engagement at the National Service Center
Linda Dickey is talking with our Managers and Supervisors about the National Service Center. During the last several months the NSC has been working on deepening our engagement with customers who contact the NSC for information. We want to continue to engage our customers after they call.
Check out the presentation for some great information.
Change Management and technology
Debra is talking with us about change management at our Managers and Supervisors Forum. Change management is one key difference to success in projects, programs and services in our world.
Emerging technology trends
Technology is moving fast. At our Managers and Supervisors Forum, we looked at 6 today. Each presenter provided a 10-minute presentation on the following tools.
- The impact of emerging technology on higher education and the future of the workforce - Jeff Clines
- Search Engine Optimization - How Business Units increase engagement via websites - Kristi Gouge
- Polycom RealPresence Mobile - Polycom goes mobile, bringing enterprise HD video collaboration to tablets - Steve Barry
- This is very cool. We were able to connect to our large Polycom video solutions from iPad 2's. Read the documentation for set up.
- This is very cool. We were able to connect to our large Polycom video solutions from iPad 2's. Read the documentation for set up.
- Parenting the Business - Thoughts on parenting as it related to new technology. - Jon Gerush
- New ITSM Tool - Siebel Call Center Replacement - Craig Jablonsky
- Active Directory Federated Services - Jim Berger/Corey Clements – great conversation about single sign on as a solution.
I learned a lot. We have so many talented and knowledgeable staff leaders.
Want to learn some more? Ask these experts.
Web Accessibility
I am at our Managers and Supervisors meeting today. Christian Caldwell is having a conversation with us about our web accessibility initiative. Accessibility means inclusion. It means that people with disabilities will find no barriers to success when visiting our web sites and applications. Considering our audience it typically older and that many of our patients have comorbidities that affect vision and hearing, we must make sure that those who may need us most can find us and navigate our information as easily as the able bodied.
Great update and conversation.
More on the Forum here.
How does the customer experience look on social media?
Is the customer experience useful on social media or is it just a bunch of disjointed interactions?
Forrester Research makes a good point that we need to have a good way of managing the experiences for our customers.
"Social media already plays a role at each step of customers' complex journeys to discover, evaluate, buy, access, use, and get support for products and services. Customer experience professionals must align their firms' social activities with their customer experience strategy by documenting existing social activities and mapping them to the customer journey, understanding customers' existing use of social touchpoints, identifying gaps in the journey and disconnects between existing social media initiatives, and establishing guidelines and metrics to keep the organization true to its social objectives." ~~by Jonathan Browne
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Will you make a run for God?
There a lot of things in life we all regret. The could of, would of, should ofs of life. Looking back can bring them all to focus.
But if we make a run for God, we will never ever regret that. We need to use our heads when it comes to what we have authority over and not rebel. We need to learn the lesson that God is in control when it comes to what we judge. Do we not know that our lives are in danger to ignore God? We need to turn to Him. We need to adore Him. We need to celebrate Him. He is in control.
We won’t regret it. Never ever!
But if we make a run for God, we will never ever regret that. We need to use our heads when it comes to what we have authority over and not rebel. We need to learn the lesson that God is in control when it comes to what we judge. Do we not know that our lives are in danger to ignore God? We need to turn to Him. We need to adore Him. We need to celebrate Him. He is in control.
We won’t regret it. Never ever!
So, rebel-kings, use your heads; Upstart-judges, learn your lesson: Worship God in adoring embrace, Celebrate in trembling awe. Kiss Messiah! Your very lives are in danger, you know; His anger is about to explode, But if you make a run for God—you won’t regret it! Psalm 2:10-12
Monday, January 9, 2012
What did it cost Jesus?
I pray that the evidence of the Master’s love in my life will be clearly verified in my life. There is no end to what Jesus has done in me. It is beyond anything I could ever say. It is beyond any thing I could ever know. There is just no end to it. I can’t say enough about the free and open access to our Father that is mine through Jesus. It didn’t cost me a thing but it cost Him everything. It is always open to me. The door is never closed.
May all the gifts and benefits that come from God our Father be mine.
May all the gifts and benefits that come from God our Father be mine.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Dale Murphy - Hall of Fame candidate
With the Hall of Fame announcements looming again, my annual question is will he make it this year? I'm thinking not. His thoughts on his chances this year?
Dale Murphy first appeared on the writers' ballot for the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999, the earliest possible year of consideration. He has failed to gain election, joining late New York Yankees outfielder Roger Maris as the only Hall of Fame-eligible recipients of multiple MVP awards not in the Hall. His failed candidacy has drawn particular notice due to his reputation as a clean-living player whose career was immediately followed by baseball's scandal-plagued "steroids era".
Baseball writer Rob Neyer feels that the former MVP's candidacy has been hurt by a career that "got a late start and suffered an early end." Stuart Miller, baseball writer for the New York Times, also notes the "sharp decline" in production that plagued Murphy after the age of 31 in arguing, "Players who were great for a short time do not receive much [Hall of Fame] recognition." Finding "one of baseball’s best players in the 1980s" to be "undervalued," Miller nonetheless writes that the Brave great "is typically considered a 'close but no' guy." Bill James, father of sabermetrics, says of Murphy, “It certainly wouldn’t offend me to have him in the Hall of Fame. I just wouldn’t advocate it.” James' "current metric for Hall induction was 300 Win Shares (a complex mathematical equation weighing what players contribute to their team’s victories)...." Murphy stands at 253 Win Shares. James ranks eight Hall of Famers below Murphy.
However, others contend, "Murphy's incredible nine-year run in Atlanta was every bit as good as anyone else during his era." Neyer notes that the explosion of power during the steroids-fueled era that began after Murphy's retirement may have caused Murphy's numbers to pale in comparison for many voters. Some have argued that Murphy's reputation for clean-living may encourage voters to "look more favorably on what Murphy did without using performance-enhancing drugs." (Murphy weighed in on the steroids issue in asserting that career home run leader Barry Bonds "without a doubt" used performance-enhancing drugs.) Sports Illustrated's Joe Posnanski has endorsed Murphy as an "emotional pick . . . a larger-than-life character who signed every autograph, spoke up for every charity and played brilliant baseball every day for mostly doomed teams."
Nonetheless, though he continues to earn the requisite 5% to remain on the ballot, Murphy averaged only 13.6% average over the first twelve years of voting. (Election to the hall requires 75%.) In the first decade of his eligibility, he "peaked at 23% in 2000 and fell to 11.5% in 2009." Moreover, as writers may only vote for ten players each year some have argued that the candidacy of stars from the 1980s—such as Murphy, pitcher Jack Morris, and outfielder Tim Raines--will become imperiled as a wave of more recently retired players with more statistically impressive credentials become eligible in the 2010s. Noting his low vote totals, Murphy has said, “Since I’m not that close [to election] ... I don’t think about it that much."
I’m always kind of optimistic. Not really frustrated, I think because my percentage hasn’t really been knocking on the door, you know? I think if it’d been at 60 percent for five years, it might be different. I know my percentage is pretty low and you need 75. And I’m not really close. To be honest, I thought my percentage would be higher over the years. It hasn’t been high. I tend to feel like I’ll get a bump this year. There’s been some talk about guys that played in the ’70s and ’80s, that there might be some revisiting of their careers [by voters], and I have some people that have been supportive. So we’ll see. I appreciate the support and I try to stay optimistic.
Dale Murphy first appeared on the writers' ballot for the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999, the earliest possible year of consideration. He has failed to gain election, joining late New York Yankees outfielder Roger Maris as the only Hall of Fame-eligible recipients of multiple MVP awards not in the Hall. His failed candidacy has drawn particular notice due to his reputation as a clean-living player whose career was immediately followed by baseball's scandal-plagued "steroids era".
Baseball writer Rob Neyer feels that the former MVP's candidacy has been hurt by a career that "got a late start and suffered an early end." Stuart Miller, baseball writer for the New York Times, also notes the "sharp decline" in production that plagued Murphy after the age of 31 in arguing, "Players who were great for a short time do not receive much [Hall of Fame] recognition." Finding "one of baseball’s best players in the 1980s" to be "undervalued," Miller nonetheless writes that the Brave great "is typically considered a 'close but no' guy." Bill James, father of sabermetrics, says of Murphy, “It certainly wouldn’t offend me to have him in the Hall of Fame. I just wouldn’t advocate it.” James' "current metric for Hall induction was 300 Win Shares (a complex mathematical equation weighing what players contribute to their team’s victories)...." Murphy stands at 253 Win Shares. James ranks eight Hall of Famers below Murphy.
However, others contend, "Murphy's incredible nine-year run in Atlanta was every bit as good as anyone else during his era." Neyer notes that the explosion of power during the steroids-fueled era that began after Murphy's retirement may have caused Murphy's numbers to pale in comparison for many voters. Some have argued that Murphy's reputation for clean-living may encourage voters to "look more favorably on what Murphy did without using performance-enhancing drugs." (Murphy weighed in on the steroids issue in asserting that career home run leader Barry Bonds "without a doubt" used performance-enhancing drugs.) Sports Illustrated's Joe Posnanski has endorsed Murphy as an "emotional pick . . . a larger-than-life character who signed every autograph, spoke up for every charity and played brilliant baseball every day for mostly doomed teams."
Nonetheless, though he continues to earn the requisite 5% to remain on the ballot, Murphy averaged only 13.6% average over the first twelve years of voting. (Election to the hall requires 75%.) In the first decade of his eligibility, he "peaked at 23% in 2000 and fell to 11.5% in 2009." Moreover, as writers may only vote for ten players each year some have argued that the candidacy of stars from the 1980s—such as Murphy, pitcher Jack Morris, and outfielder Tim Raines--will become imperiled as a wave of more recently retired players with more statistically impressive credentials become eligible in the 2010s. Noting his low vote totals, Murphy has said, “Since I’m not that close [to election] ... I don’t think about it that much."
"He wants you to be a “living sacrifice”— to let Him have all your strengths that have been saved and sanctified through Jesus." ~~Oswald Chambers
It is of no value to God to give Him your life for death. He wants you to be a “living sacrifice”— to let Him have all your strengths that have been saved and sanctified through Jesus (Romans 12:1). This is what is acceptable to God.
via My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers.
“Whoever does not see God in every place does not see God in any place.” ~~Rabbi Elimelech
“Whoever does not see God in every place does not see God in any place.”
via Rabbi Elimelech | Flight of the Beacon's Butterfly.
via Rabbi Elimelech | Flight of the Beacon's Butterfly.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
"A gadabout gossip can't be trusted with a secret, but someone of integrity won't violate a confidence." ~~King Solomon
Jesus wants us to be people of integrity. Everyone we know needs to be able to trust us completely. It is important in His world that we are cabable of maintaining a confidence. Any other way is not the way of wisdom.
A gadabout gossip can't be trusted with a secret, but someone of integrity won't violate a confidence. ~~King Solomon (Proverbs 11:13)
Friday, January 6, 2012
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Above all else, Focus!!! A realization not a resolution
Above all else, Focus!! This is more a realization than a resolution. It is only coincidental that it comes at the first of the year. When I am most successful, it is a result of focus. When I am not, it is the result of too many priorities and distractions. Scott Williams makes some great points in this blog. I love the proverb.
I am also impressed at how men of God focus. I wrote this a while back but I come back to it periodically. Nehemiah knew how to focus. For him it was what would he say yes to and what would he say no to.
The primary reason people fail is not because they don’t have the skills or abilities, they fail because they get distracted. There will always be plenty of opportunities for success and there will be even more opportunities to get distracted. Stay focused and Don’t Get Distracted.
“The lion does not turn around when a small dog barks.” ~African Proverb
via Don’t Get Distracted | Big Is The New Small.
I am also impressed at how men of God focus. I wrote this a while back but I come back to it periodically. Nehemiah knew how to focus. For him it was what would he say yes to and what would he say no to.
How easy is it to get distracted? Well, some days pretty easy. My enemy sends me a great message. Let’s just talk. Come and meet me. What is my response?
Nehemiah was on a mission from God. He was doing some amazing stuff. It was no small thing. He had almost finished but there was still a few things left to do. How did he respond to the distraction of the enemy? Just say NO!!!
So …. when we are centered in the will of God, may we respond that our Yes to God is more important that anything and be able to say, “No, I cannot come down.”
Now when it was reported to Sanballat, Tobiah, to Geshem the Arab and to the rest of our enemies that I had rebuilt the wall, and that no breach remained in it, although at that time I had not set up the doors in the gates, then Sanballat and Geshem sent a message to me, saying, “Come, let us meet together at Chephirim in the plain of Ono.” But they were planning to harm me. So I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work and I cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and come down to you?” Nehemiah 6:1-3
via A greater YES!! An easy NO!! « Michael Wilson's Blog.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Strength and where it comes from
Some things are amazingly simple with God. Here is one of them. God is strong. Nothing weak about him at all. Like the energizer bunny he just keeps going and going. He is always strong. He never sleeps. He doesn't grow tired. He has always been strong and always will be.
His desire for us is that we will always be strong as well. He sent Jesus to die for us and to share in the power of His ressurection. He gave His mighty Spirit so we could be strong. He has given us all the weapons we need to be victorious.
So there!!!
May we always be strong, just as He is.
His desire for us is that we will always be strong as well. He sent Jesus to die for us and to share in the power of His ressurection. He gave His mighty Spirit so we could be strong. He has given us all the weapons we need to be victorious.
So there!!!
God is strong, and he wants you strong. Ephesians 6:10
May we always be strong, just as He is.
Monday, January 2, 2012
"Mean-spirited slander is heartless; quiet discretion accompanies good sense." ~~King Solomon
Speaking ill of others, whether it is true or not, is just not God's way. Jesus summed it up well, Judge not so that you will be not judged yourself.
Wisdom says that it makes good sense to be discrete.
Wisdom says that it makes good sense to be discrete.
"Mean-spirited slander is heartless; quiet discretion accompanies good sense." ~~King Solomon (Proverbs 11:12)
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