Today, perhaps more than ever before technology seems to nearly run our lives. We rely on technology and specialized software utilities every day. Not only do these advances make our lives easier, but they allow us to work more efficiently and often with higher productivity. Technology has also permeated our personal lives as well. Modern advances and conveniences are now taken for granted. Technology such as remote controls, garage door openers, and microwaves have certainly changed our lives and we use them today without a second thought.

I didn’t really truly appreciate all of the technology at my disposal until I was away from work on maternity leave. The devices that I had learned to lean on were suddenly not as readily available to use or completely removed from my life. I rarely used my Mobile Outlook calendar because I couldn’t sync to my work computer, my personal computer decided to become a haven to a hard drive crippling virus, etc. At one point I would admit that I enjoyed the short respite, but after about two hours, I missed my laptop computer and Outlook calendar. How was I expected to schedule my son’s doctor appointments or keep the inevitable influx of relatives and in-laws straight on my own without my technological crutches?!

This week, Apple unveiled their new Ipad. Essentially, this new technology is an enormous Ipod Touch. While I am not surprised in this latest step up the technology ladder, it makes me wonder what is next? I am constantly trying to find ways to become more efficient and productive with my work. One sure-fire way to help is look for technology that will help achieve my goals. There are numerous softwares that claim to be the “best” or “industry leader” (don’t even start me on all of the 3-D rendering softwares available!) but how can we be so sure without shelling out large sums of money? Purchasing a specific software with the intentions of increasing efficiency only to find out the product doesn’t fit the needs of the organization will cause headaches and stress. However, there are some steps we can take to increase efficiency and save money, turning us from office dunce to hero in about as much time as it takes to download a new program.

When researching new software, I have found that most software companies offer a trial version of the software you want for download. These trials can be for as little as 24 hours but most seem to run for at least one month. What I would recommend is to make sure you have enough time to use the software so you can make a reasonable determination if the program will sufficiently meet your needs (and perhaps finish that important project). Additionally, there is a wealth of information available on the internet that will provide valuable feedback through online reviews and discussion groups from people just like you. If you are really fortunate, you might find that perfect software at no cost (yes, they are out there, just very hard to find)!

We all have our favorite technologies that help us in our daily professional and personal lives. What are yours?

Submitted By: Amanda Medlen

On January 12, 2010 the citizens of Haiti were literally shaken to their core by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake. Daily reports have conveyed the tragedy and devastation as people search for loved ones, food, water and shelter. Mothers have unselfishly offered to give their babies to foreign workers so that they might have a better opportunity of survival. Volunteers, support agencies and government aid from around the globe have tirelessly spent the past nine days trying to provide the basics in food and water, as well as, rescue or recover victims trapped beneath the rubble.
As I have watched the nightly news coverage, I am awed by the practical compassion demonstrated from ordinary people around the world. They have temporarily stepped away from the security of their lives to willingly give, serve and comfort hurting people. I personally believe that this can only arise from a deep call within; which reveres the value of human life and humanity. Our true worth in time and talents can never be measured by what we get for them, but by how we are willing to serve.
The many volunteers in Haiti are a reminder that human service is the most sustaining resource available to mankind.

Submitted By: Cherie Anderson

Throwing a get together for the upcoming Colts AFC Divisional Playoff Game? As I prepare my menu, clean my house, refill snacks and restock cold beverages for family and friends – surely this goes beyond the scope of any “how to” blog, since a great party can only be defined post-hoc, after it is over, and is the result of a combination of superb planning and astonishing good luck regarding such uncontrollable issues as the weather and guests’ moods, interactions and especially how the Colts play…..
The best I can hope for is to plan ahead with care and then “wing it”. Here are a few tips that make the party planning a little easier…
Plan ahead.
Decide on the guest list, and invite them…easiest way – Evite
Figure out what to serve in the way of the food and drinks, and make center arrangements…I love to reuse game programs and hang all the freebies that the Colts marketing department hands out during the “Blue Friday” events.
Set up the music play list for guest arrival and pre-game festivities then turn the radio to ESPN the fan 1070 on the am dial…I love the enthusiasm of that Bob Lamey! Just place the volume on low during the game…
Make sure that the place is tidy and functional…so that people can circulate, sit down when they need to, and use the washroom and other facilities during the game without walking in front of those who will not move until the game is over.
Develop a theme and encourage your guests to dress according to the theme…of course everyone this weekend must wear blue and certainly it is a pitch-in, so less stress for me…I assign who will bring what after they RSVP.
Always try your best and have lots of fun!
GO BLUE!!!!! GO COLTS!!!!!

Submitted By: Donna Metallic

While driving to work this morning, I was listening to my favorite band of all time, yes; you guessed it – The Beatles. When one of their many hit songs blared through my car speakers, I couldn’t help but think that this particular song pretty much characterized my 2009. With the economic conditions we all faced last year and after personally experiencing three very close family tragedies over a five month period, it was truly “A Hard Day’s Night” or should I say A Hard Day’s Year? Thanks to the love, support and prayers from family and friends, I was pretty much able to endure the aftermath and deal with executing 3 estates. Despite the challenges our family faced in 2009, our year ended on a higher (Beatles) note (no pun intended), as my wife, Cindy, willingly and without hesitation donated her kidney to my brother, Ed, thus giving him at least another twenty years of a precious life.

After being able to kick back over the holidays, and count my many blessings, 2010 has started off much better for me. With that said, The Beatle’s song that immediately came to mind for this early part of the year is “Good Day Sunshine”.

After being inspired by Jill’s “Giving versus Getting” blog from last week, coupled with all the blessings that have been bestowed upon me, my blog entry this week gives me an opportunity to not only talk about the greatest band in the universe but also say “Thank You” to our valued clients for their continued business and support. In today’s difficult economy, we truly value the loyalty and confidence our clients have entrusted in us … and we pledge to do whatever we can to maintain the best possible fees and service that have satisfied them in previous years.

We are looking forward to a prosperous New Year … and fully realize that the success of our Firm depends on the dedication of our Associate’s and the solid business partnerships / relationships that we have built with our clients. We want our clients to know that they are appreciated, and if there is anything we can implement to enhance our innovative service offerings and/or serve them better, we are open to their constructive guidance! Again, many thanks and best wishes for an economically sound future …

So, in closing, what was your 2009 song and what will be your 2010 song?

Submitted By: Gary Pino