Maverick: Xima

Proposed Quality Improvement Plan

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 12:46:00 +0800

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TOPIC: Far Eastern University – Central Student Organization Information Dissemination System

I. GROUP MEMBERS:

Leader: Maverick Adelbert L. Sy

Assistant Technical Leader: Ivan Ray. T. Verzonilla

Secretary: Christian Joy C. Paz

Treasurer: Carlo R. Sampang

Members:

Gino E. Dela Cruz

Jenina Ruth M. Leyba

Jeb Aufred C. Nery

Sarah Chincuanco

II. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY:

A student society or student organization is a group operated by students at a university whose membership normally consists only of students. Student organizations play a strategic role in molding the intellectual and civic consciousness of students. They serve as fertile grounds that build and nurture the character and dynamisms of young people to search for the truth and contribute to the betterment of society. In effect, student organizations are the bridges that link the intellectual discourse in the classroom to the social realities and the demand of a human community for equity and justice. ^[1]

In Far Eastern University there are 51 recognized student organizations that respond to the different needs and interests of the students. Most of them have bulletin boards for information and recruitment purposes ^{[2] [3]}. This study will look into the Far Eastern University – Central Student Organization (FEUCSO), the university’s mother organization. The role of FEUCSO is to promote student awareness about campus events. FEUCSO aims to manage and create projects and events are aligned with the mission and vision of the respective orgs, and the university in general.

The focus will be placed on Information Dissemination System – which is how FEUCSO makes projects and programs known to organizations and students as a whole. This study will compare and analyze FEUCSO with Ateneo de Manila University’s – Council of Organizations of the Ateneo (COA) as a control. Comparisons can thus be made regarding how similar or contrasting each school’s information dissemination systems are and the feasibility of an improvement on the current system can be.

III. PROBLEM STATEMENT

With Organizations

· There is poor communication between the two parties

Problems in coordination between the two sides are prevalent and often result in delays of projects or events planned.

· Meetings between the two parties are few and far between

Both parties do not meet regularly enough to form a check and balance between them.

With Students

· Apathetic students

A significant amount of students themselves are unmotivated about school events or activities.

· Many are unaware of FEUCSO projects

Students from across the university are likely to be aware of their respective institute’s programs if at all, however are almost unaware of FEUCSO’s projects.

· Dissatisfied with FEUCSO and respective Institute projects

A survey made by the Advocate had shown that a majority of students found the projects made to be ineffective ^[4].

· Students are not given enough projects to promote participation

A survey by the Advocate provided data that 75% of students believed that not enough focus on participation has been made in projects ^[4].

Within the Organization

· Disseminated information is not monitored thoroughly

Although there is some extent of information being distributed from the mother organization to respective student organizations, not enough thoroughness in making sure that the information has been effectively sent to the students themselves is not made

IV. ROOT CAUSES OF THE PROBLEM

Manpower

· Inadequate recruitment of disseminating personnel

· Apathetic students

· Unity of the dual parties that represent the student organizations and mother organization

Material

· Inadequate means of promoting posters

Methods

· Not enough thoroughness in making sure end-users are made aware

· Meetings only for pre-existing collaborated projects and not a preset regular meeting

· A proper check and balance system

V. RECOMMENDATION & BENEFIT

The study has shown that, the problem of information not being disseminated efficiency is not simply because of one factor, but a multitude of inter-related factors. In particular, the factor of the relationship between the mother organization and the student organization body is the initial impediment, which further connects to the organization body as whole with the student population.

1.Creation of Regular Meetings

PRESENT

Currently FEUCSO and student organizations meet in the House of Congress during times when projects are proposed in order to set goals and settle issues.

PROPOSED

Create regular meetings in the established House of Congress between FEUCSO with student organization presidents in order to address this problem and make it known in order to create awareness the issue and to be able to regularly coordinate with each governing body with regards to activities and programs planned.

This allows for greater understanding among parties involved which will provide a suitable foundation for further actions planned. In this way, both parties are also able to regularly coordinate with each other, and not just meeting when projects are being planned and thought out.

2.Usage of the “Reply” system

PRESENT

The current system uses text messaging as a means of communicating information among parties involved; however there is no strict protocol with regards to actual confirmations whether the information was received properly or not.

PROPOSED

Implement a “reply” system with the use of text messaging as a medium in order to fully confirm information delivery. This simply yet effective addition to the current system will provide a cheap solution to a very deep rooted problem of ineffective and inefficient information dissemination within each organization and towards other parties involved.

3.Adequate Check and Balance System

PRESENT

There are no true system of a strict check and balance system that will hold each officer accountable to their tasks.

PROPOSED

Once there is an effective means of distributing and confirmation information reception, the third step is to create a check and balance system in order to create accountability among those tasked with disseminating information. In order to achieve this, another simple system of implementing a “buddy” system will be installed. This system will use 2 to 3 people groups assigned to a specific target recipient of information. Each group will be accountable to each other and thus need to remind each other of tasks at hand, restrictions regarding protocol on how sending of information is going to be done will be implemented to further streamline the system.

4.The CORE Group

PRESENT

The currently system for getting JMA members up to speed with events and projects made by JMA is through class beadles

PROPOSED

The CORE Group system creates a further subgroup in each block. Each group will be divided into 15 to 20 people, headed by 2 to 3 COREs or group heads. As groups increase in size, the likelihood of them being active in discussions and asking more queries will be less, therefore decreasing the number of people per group will encourage more student involvement.

The CORE group will act as a small family, not simply disseminating information to the group members. 2 or 3 heads are selected per group inorder to apply the previously mentioned “Buddy” system, to further reinforce this proposed system.

VI. IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

A.Process Flowchart

For Bigger Image of Flow Chart Click Here

The process flowchart is designed to offer an algorithm or steps to take in order to effectively put this plan into action taking into account the possible occurrences during the process.

B.Improvement Chart

For Bigger Image of Improvement Chart Click Here

The improvement chart is designed to show how the process to be implemented will help the corresponding parties involved in the process. And show the general and specific benefits acquired from this proposal.

BENEFICIARIES

1. FEUCSO

2. Institute Student Councils

3. Student Organizations

4. Students

5. Far Eastern University

VI. REFERENCES:

[1] www.up.edu.ph

[2] Far Eastern University Student Handbook, 2009-2010

[3] 50 student organizations, Wikipedia Encyclopedia

[4]FEU Advocate, November-December 2009; Bol. XIII no. 5

APPENDICES

Interview

An interview was conducted with the current president of the Ateneo Electronics and Computer Engineering Society (AECES), Gazelo D. Arcilla, V BS Electronics and Communications Engineering.

Interview Proper:

1. What is AECES all about?

The Ateneo Electronics and Computer Engineering Society (AECES) aims to equip its members with skills that will prime them to be in service to society. AECES does this through skills training, academic support and by providing opportunities to exercise leadership in an organizational environment.

2. What is COA all about?

The Council of Organizations of the Ateneo is an organization composed of all the Office of Student Activities (OSA) - accredited organizations in the Ateneo. COA fosters the unity of the student organizations, and together, the Council crafts overall strategies and policies cascaded down to the individual orgs.

3. What is the relationship between AECES and COA?

AECES is a member of COA.

4. How are activities/projects planned and made in AECES?

At the start of every year, a Planning Seminar (PlanSem) is carried out by the newly-elected Executive Board (EB). Goals are set and policies are crafted during PlanSem.

With the goals and policies set, one of the six departments’ Vice President (VP), together with his or her Assistant Vice President (AVP) propose the activities for the year. Planning and implementation is carried out by Project Managers and their core groups. The VPs and AVPs screen and select the Project Managers (PM), and the PMs are responsible in recruiting members of their core group.

5. How can COA possibly influence the planning process?

The EB ensures that the goals set for a specific year are in line with the goals of Ateneo and of COA for the same year. The organization also does its best to produce efforts that would uphold AECES’, COA’s and Ateneo’s Vision and Mission.

6. What are the projects done specifically by only COA itself?

COA’s Organizational Development Department (OD) and Training and Development Department (TD) offer each of the member organizations training and support in order to foster growth for each of the organizations.

COA’s Special Projects Department (SP) handle projects such as Recruitment Week (RecWeek), Blue Christmas and IgNation.

7. How is information disseminated from COA to organizations?

All the presidents of the organizations under COA comprise the COA Council of Representatives (COA CoR). COA’s Secretary General sends an email to the COA CoR. COA CoR then disseminates this information by forwarding this information to their organization’s electronic group.

Each organization in COA is also classified under one of nine clusters. AECES is under COA - Science and Technology Cluster, handled by a Cluster Head and Secretary-Treasurer. Information from COA are also disseminated to the organizations by sending a text message or email to the Cluster Head and Secretary Treasurer. The Cluster Head and Secretary Treasurer then disseminate this information to the presidents of the organizations under their cluster.

8. Is the method of information dissemination efficient in your opinion? Why or why not?

It is efficient - it allows the information to be sent to every member of every organization under COA while keeping the disseminators from excessive resource strain (most importantly time in creating and sending messages) and money (cell phone credits). However, it requires a “reply culture” to ensure successful dissemination of information.

9. What have been the steps taken in the past to improve information dissemination in COA (if known), and in AECES?

I was introduced to COA with the current information dissemination system already in place. I am unaware of past incarnations of COA’s info dissem system.

This year, we sought to implement and institutionalize a similar information dissemination system for sending information from the EB to the general body.

10. What means of information dissemination do you think should be done in order to further improve how information is made known in COA and AECES?

I am content with the system currently in place.

11. Has there been a previous study done with this topic that you know of?

12. Are you aware of how the system in FEU organizations and mother orgs are done?

Sadly, no I am interested in knowing FEU student organizations’ information dissemination systems (and the systems of student organizations from other universities) in an attempt to compare and improve on the current system that AECES currently is implementing.

13. Any other thoughts regarding AECES? COA? Organization Information Dissemination System?

Electronic means of information dissemination is the norm today, inside and outside of the organizational environment. It strikes my interest how organizations pre-texting craze were able to carry out their projects without the current iteration of the cellular phone.

There is an apparent problem in just how much the information penetrates the member base even as the project organizers and organization officers use these electronic means. Previous generations probably had to reply on phone calls and note passing, and phone calls then cost a whole than what is charged of us today. Reliance on the electronic movement is not a wrong idea - this is the natural flow we have to follow given advances in technology - but what changed? How were these older organizations able to carry out successful projects without the email and cell phone? I want to know because I want to identify just how much leadership styles have changed given these technological advances

An interview was conducted with the current secretary of the Far Eastern University Central Student Organization (FEUCSO), Angela Manuel, III BS Psychology.

What is FEUCSO all about?

So, FEUCSO stands for Far Eastern University Central Student Organization, so from the name itself it simply says that it is the umbrella organization. It is not necessarily the supreme organization of all the other councils. Unlike other schools where supreme organizations have the authority to command the other organizations, but here in Far Eastern University what we have is the central which is the FEUCSO its an umbrella org, so it connects other organizations.

What is the status of FEUCSO in the Campus Scene?

I’ve been in FEUCSO for two consecutive years already, I was first selected as auditor and then last year as secretary and based on my observation comparing it from before, including what the others told how FEUCSO was before, I think its progressing and the students are recognizing it more and is more popular than before. They are now benefiting more with the projects as compared to being passive last year, when they did not even know what FEUCSO is, so I’m happy with that.

How can FEUCSO possibly influence the planning process?

Since FEUCSO is an organization, definitely it has its own organizational structure and regardless if we are considered as an umbrella organization we are still under another, higher organization which is OSACS. So if student councils are under their respective Institutes, we are directly under OSACS, all the projects that we do, we do it through brainstorming, we plan then make it into a formal project proposal and after that consult each member of FEUCSO then the adviser then submit to OSACS, then the dean endorses it already and submits to the administration, that’s the time we will have to wait whether the administration will approve it or not.

How is information disseminated from FEUCSO to Student Councils and its academic organizations?

FEUCSO is consisted of 6 officers and from those officers we have what we call the PRO, basically info dissemination is the job of the PRO, but then we also have this what we call House of Congress which is chaired by the elected vice president of FEUCSO. Through this House of Congress, it is composed of the different Institute student councils, presidents and FEUCSO representatives, the information that will arrive will come from them. Let’s say for example, there’s a project to be done by FEUCSO and it concerns the other institute councils, so what we do, we conduct a meeting in the House of Congress and we disseminate the information to Institute council presidents and FEUCSO representatives, and then they do the info dissemination to their own institute levels. Regarding the university wide organizations, that’s really the purpose of the PRO so he/she does all the information dissemination.

Is the method of information dissemination efficient in your opinion? why or why not?

Based on my own opinion, for this last batch of FEUCSO 2009-2010, I believe that the information dissemination that we used was very efficient and effective, primarily because our elected PRO came from IARFA, the Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts, major in Advertising, so basically she has the knowledge on how to do effective and efficient advertisement to others. And aside from that, we all know that there has been a lot of progress with regards to Facebook, Multiply and all other networking accounts, these helped a lot to disseminate information.

What have been the steps taken in the past to improve information dissemination in FEUCSO?

So, during our administration 2009-2010, headed by Mr. Ramon Victor Roxas, before the school started, we already set our mind that our theme for the year would be youth mobilization through collaboration and open-mindedness. What we did was, we maximized all the available resources to be effective in disseminating information to the students, so we tried to collaborate with other student organizations; they helped a lot because they are the ones that really have the influence with the students, aside the usual posters, fliers, and advertisement to other programs of students. As what I mentioned before we also use networking accounts, so things are ok.

What means of information dissemination do you think should be done in order to further improve how information is made known in FEUCSO?

Personally, I believe that the best way to disseminate information is through word of mouth because we cannot give all the details of all programs that we are doing to all students one by one, and with that basis, posters did help us a lot with regards to details, but with basic knowledge of the program even the title itself word of mouth is still the most effective. We did need the help of the student councils and we did not fail with that because we were able to build good rapport with them even before we started the school so that all the programs that we were planning were executed well. It was also important that the PRO assigned to the position regarding info dissemination is well known regarding that, because she has the last say whether this is the medium or media to be used.

Prof. Toti Dulay|2nd CongDistrict of Marikina City: The Filipino is a Great Race

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:35:27 +0800

Prof. Toti Dulay|2nd CongDistrict of Marikina City: The Filipino is a Great Race:

By Prof. Toti Dulay

We are the only old Christian nation in Asia.
English speaker.

Good looking. A mixture of Hispanic and Chinese race…mga tisoy tayo.
We take a bath daily, even twice a day, so we smell nice. In cold countries, they take a bath once a week, so, you can imagine how they…

Blog Entry: Format of the Final Paper

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 12:48:00 +0800

I. Title of the Page

Far Eastern University Central Student Organization Information Dissemination System

II. Group Members

Leader: Maverick Sy

Asst. Technical Leader: Ivan Ray T. Verrzonilla

Secretary: Christian Joy C. Paz

Treasurer: Carlo R. Sampang

Members:

Gino E. Dela Cruz

Jenina Ruth M. Leyba

Jeb Aufred C. Nery

III. Background

IV. Problems Statement

V. Recommendation & Benefit

- Present

- Proposed

VI. Implementation Plan

- Activity

- Unit/Person Responsible

- Target Date

- Estimated Budget

Finals Requirements

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 12:41:22 +0800

1. Follow All Group Members in tumblr

2. Papers

a. Personal Blog - Individual Paper

b. Group Paper - Assistant Leader in Charge

3. Group Leader to give the grade

Interview Questions

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:09:27 +0800

1. What is AECES all about?

2. What is COA all about?

3. what is the relationship between AECES and COA?

4. How are activities/projects planned and made in AECES?

5. How can COA possibly influence the planning process?

6. What are the projects done specifically by only COA itself?

7. How is information disseminated from COA to organizations?

8. Is the method of information dissemination efficient in your opinion? why or why not?

9. What have been the steps taken in the past to improve information dissemination in COA (if known), and in AECES?

10. What means of information dissemination do you think should be done in order to further improve how infomation is made known in COA and AECES?

11. Has there been a previous study done with this topic that you know of?

12. Are you aware of how the system in FEU organizations and mother orgs are done?

13. Any other thoughts regarding AECES? COA? Organization Information Dissemination System?

London to open 1st exercise area for older people

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:37:55 +0800

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100210/ap_on_he_me/eu_britain_over60s_playground

LONDON – Swinging London will take on a whole new connotation for the capital’s aging baby boomers, who will soon get their own specially designed outdoor playground.

The park will offer low-impact exercise equipment to help older people improve their balance and flexibility and tone muscles that may not have been tested for decades.

“Every park has a children’s playground, very few have playgrounds for adults, and none have playgrounds for the elderly,” said Madeline Elsdon, whose local residents’ association has won funding for the playground, which is planned for London’s popular Hyde Park.

“We wanted something that would be of long-term benefit to people, so we came up with this idea for an older person’s playground.”

Exercise areas aimed at the elderly are popular in Europe and Asia, and there’s already a U.K. precedent — an over-60 playground billed as Britain’s first opened in Manchester’s Dam Head Park two years ago. The equipment there was still seeing use Wednesday — with senior citizens swinging their legs and working their hips on the machines despite temperatures that hovered around freezing.

Elsdon said the Hyde Park playground, which is due to be built by this spring, will have six pieces of equipment bought in Denmark, including a stationary bicycle, a cross-trainer and a sit-up bench.

British group Age Concern, which works to help the elderly, said the playground sounded like a great idea.

“Frankly, it’s the first time I’ve ever heard of such a thing,” spokesman Stefano Gelmini said. “It looks like a nice initiative.”

The group’s charity director, Michelle Mitchell, said in an e-mail that the playground “could be a great way to encourage older people to exercise and socialize.”

“Many older people aren’t exercising enough,” she said, adding that working out with others their own age could help older people alleviate feelings of loneliness and depression.

Elsdon said she had been “absolutely overwhelmed by the number of people who have shown an interest” in the free play area.

Westminster City Council, which gave 40,000 pounds ($60,000) to fund the project, said a sign would identify the area as the “Hyde Park Senior Playground” but anyone of any age was welcome to use it.

It raises the question — why not just go to the gym?

Elsdon said older people have been hard hit by Britain’s recession and many found gyms too intimidating in the first place.

“Too much firm flesh,” she said, laughing.

Insider Secrets to Get Your Resume Read

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:36:53 +0800

http://hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-insider_secrets_to_get_your_resume_read-1118

It’s becoming harder than ever to get your resume read by a real person.

“HR people are drowning in resumes, and despite their best intentions, many can’t keep up,” says executive recruiter Mike Travis.

Help your resume win the attention it deserves by following these up-to-date tips from industry insiders.

* “Keep it shorter, tighter, and more laser-focused,” advises resume expert Louise Kursmark. “Resumes are by necessity becoming crisper and more to the point.” With Twitter, texting, and a barrage of quick-hit multimedia messages, we’re getting accustomed to the succinct. “Readers quickly lose interest in wordy resumes that don’t get right to the point,” she says. This goes for cover letters, too.

* “Show some humor or personality,” says Jennifer Turner, of Talagy recruiting and staffing company. “I recently called a candidate, even though he didn’t match any current positions, because his online resume title was, ‘Smart and Funny Sales Guy.’”

* “Make your resume read like a news story, not an encyclopedia entry,” suggests Sam Levine, of The Buttonwood Group. Pop an eye-catching headline and lead on the top and be sure to include a summary of qualifications.

* “Be results-oriented,” advises Erin Riley, assistant director of career services at the Chapman University School of Law. Whenever possible, quantify your accomplishments. Example: Instead of simply writing “Drafted OSHA appeal,” she says, include results: “Drafted OSHA appeal resulting in 90% reduction of employer fine for employee’s serious on-the-job injury.”

* “Show what sets you apart,” says Nancy Keene, a director of Stanton Chase global executive search firm. “I like to see some indication of personal interests. It’s a good conversation trigger and provides some additional insight into who the person is.”

Riley agrees. “It’s an opportunity to make yourself memorable as an applicant,” she says. While an actual Personal Interest section is not usually advised, you can find ways to integrate your interests into your resume. For example, you could list your volunteer activities to give hiring managers some sense of your passions.

* “Use appropriate keywords,” suggests Kursmark. Since machines are increasingly reading your resume before people are, give the tracking systems what they’re looking for: the most significant keywords from the job description that fit your qualifications — anything from degrees to programming languages and other specialized job-related skills.

* “Let others sing your praises,” says Richard Deems, co-author of “Make Job Loss Work for You.” “We add a section at the end we title, ‘What Others Say.’ Then we list five short statements, usually without attribution, that others have said about the person.” Examples: “Sticks with it until the job gets done,” or “The most creative, prolific employee I’ve ever had.”

* “If your name is difficult to pronounce, include your nickname,” says Heather R. Huhman, president of Come Recommended. Like it or not, “Companies are more likely to call you for an interview if you provide a name they can easily pronounce,” she says.

Take the free resume test to see if your resume has what it takes to make the cut.

And take America’s #1 Free Career Test for help finding the best career for you.

7 Reasons You're Still Overweight (and How to Get Slim Fast)

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:35:06 +0800

http://health.yahoo.com/experts/eatthis/45125/7-reasons-youre-still-overweight-and-how-to-get-slim-fast/

Why do some people pack on the pounds effortlessly? It’s not always genetics and it’s not always gluttony, and you can’t always blame it on lack of exercise. Indeed, becoming overweight is often a result of some simple—and easily correctible—bad habits, especially when it comes to dining out. (I know. I used to be a chunky kid.)

As we began researching Eat This, Not That! Restaurant Survival Guide, we discovered plenty of egregious examples of super-fattening foods in both America’s supermarkets and our chain restaurants. And we learned that if you simply know what to order and what to avoid, you can shave off pounds effortlessly. For example, does On the Border really need to stuff more than a day’s worth of calories into its Dos XX Fish Tacos? (Remember when fish was healthy?) And shouldn’t Chili’s warn parents when a selection on its kids’ menu comes with 82 grams of fat, like its Pepper Pals Little Chicken Crispers does?

If you know these secrets, the power to eat what you want and still stay slim is in your hands. That’s why we created the Eat This, Not That! iPhone app!—it’s like having your own personal nutritionist at your fingertips.

In the meantime, here’s the hard truth: There’s more contributing to America’s obesity problem than just fattening food. The restaurant industry has spent decades studying human behavior and figuring out all sorts of subliminal ways to make us want to order and eat more. And a lot of those psychological tricks have become ingrained in our behavior.

In a study in the journal Obesity, researchers looked at the habits of people dining at an all-you-can-eat buffet. Those with the highest body mass index (BMI)—a measure of obesity—shared many of the behaviors listed below. Know them so you can take charge of your waistline—and your health.

#1. Overweight people use larger plates.
When offered two plate sizes, 98.6 percent of those with the highest BMI took the larger of the two plates to the buffet. A bigger plate tricks your eye into thinking you’re not eating as much when you stuff more food onto the surface—and into your mouth. Use a smaller plate, get a smaller belly.

Bonus tip: The same principle holds true for drinks, as we’ve found while researching the upcoming Drink This, Not That! The larger the cup, the bigger your gut. Check out our list of The 20 Worst Drinks in America and The 40 Best and Worst Beers for two eye-opening lineups of belt-busting beverages that’ll drown your diet aspirations. (It’s baffling that some drinks can pack more than 2000 calories!)

#2. Overweight people eat while looking at food.
Of those with high BMIs, 41.7 percent took seats that overlooked the buffet, instead of sitting in a booth or facing in a different direction. The sight of food tends to make our minds think we have more work to do, eating-wise. Keep your food stored in the fridge or stashed in the pantry, not out on the countertops.

#3. Overweight people eat with maximum efficiency.
While Chinese buffets offer chopsticks, 91.3 percent of obese patrons opt for forks. That just makes it easier to shovel in the food.

Bonus tip: For simple steps to live a longer and healthier life, read through Dr. Oz’s 25 Greatest Health Tips Ever. His tips will dramatically improve your life.

#4. Overweight people clean their plates.
Of those patrons who were the heaviest, 94 percent cleaned their plates so there was nothing left. Ignore Mom’s advice—let a little linger, or take it to go.

#5. Overweight people chew less.
Researchers actually monitored the chewing habits of the buffet-goers and discovered that the heaviest one-third among them chewed their food an average of 11.9 times before swallowing. The middle one-third chewed an average of 14 times, and the leanest one-third chewed 14.8 times.

Bonus tip: Whatever you do, don’t chew on these 20 Worst Restaurant Foods in America. Some of these secret meals pack days’ worth of salt, sugar, trans-fat and saturated fat! Learn exactly which ones so you can steer clear.

#6. Overweight people dive in.
The leanest people in the study typically took a lap around the buffet first, to plot out what they wanted to eat. But the more overweight group charged right in; doing so means you may fill up on some less-appealing items, then have to go back to snag that one nosh you have to have but missed the first time.

#7. Overweight people skip breakfast.
A simple habit, but missing this crucial meal raises your risk of obesity by a whopping 450 percent! Start your day with some lean protein and fiber—which will jumpstart your metabolism and keep you full. (An egg sandwich is actually a great choice.)

Top-earning athletes of the 2010 Winter Games

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:32:15 +0800

http://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/news?slug=ys-forbesolyearners020910&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

Last February energy-drink maker Red Bull built U.S. snowboarder Shaun White his own half-million-dollar half-pipe in the backcountry of Silverton, Colo. – so remote he needs a helicopter to shuttle him there. It was here where White invented the most dangerous trick in his repertoire: the double McTwist 1260, an inverted aerial in which he launches himself up off the side of a snow packed embankment and flips head over heels twice while spinning three-and-a-half times and holding his board.

The move helped him win gold at the Winter X Games in Aspen, Colo., and padded his status as an action sport superstar. He also padded his wallet with $40,000 in prize money. But compared to what he earns from sponsors, that was pocket change. Last year, 23-year-old White pocketed $7.5 million from the likes of snowboard-maker Burton, Red Bull, Target, goggle-maker Oakley, game-maker Ubisoft and AT&T, making him one of the highest-earning athletes appearing at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Sharing that top honor is South Korea’s Kim Yu-Na, who is also making top dollar for her dynamic aerial skills – but on ice skates. Last year her triple-triple combination jumps helped her earn the titles of World Champion, Grand Prix Final Champion, and Four Continents Champion and brought her nearly $150,000 in prize money. They also helped the 19-year-old become a marketing darling in her home country, where she earned $7.5 million from sponsors like Hyundai Motor, Kookim Bank, Nike, Proctor & Gamble, just to name a few. Her Samsung Electronics “Yu-Na Haptic” style phone launched in May of last year broke a company record in December when unit sales broke the 1 million mark in less than seven months.

Our list of the highest-earning athletes of the Winter Olympic looks at earnings derived from prize money, endorsements, licensing income and bonuses for the 2009 calendar year and does not deduct for taxes or agents’ fees. All salaried professional athletes, specifically National Hockey League players, were excluded from the list.

In terms of earning potential, White and Yu-Na are typical Olympic athletes. They are dependent on sponsors, rather than competition prize money, to make a living in their sport. But the recent economic downturn has made it harder to turn gold medals into cash. Already at a disadvantage compared to most of their Summer Olympic siblings whose sports are more popular and marketable (think swimming’s Michael Phelps or gymnastics’ Mary Lou Retton), many Winter Olympian hopefuls have struggled with the loss of sponsors leading to the 2010 Vancouver games. Even White lost deals with American Express and Hewlett-Packard.

No Olympic hopefuls’ struggles have been more public than U.S. speedskating team. Its ability to even pay for practice ice time were put in serious peril in October when it lost its sponsor Dutch Bank DSB, who had a four-year agreement worth $350,000 a year including $50,000 for athlete performances. An unlikely lifeline came from the Comedy Central’s Stephen Colbert who raised $300,000 in donations online and whose Colbert Nation became the team’s official primary sponsor for the upcoming games. But the financial crisis the team faces is a problem that goes beyond just the Olympics. With no major sponsor lined up for next year, the team’s growth is in jeopardy.

Five-time Olympic medalist in short-track speed skating (and 2007 “Dancing With the Stars” champion) Apolo Anton Ohno has helped himself by negotiating his own marketing deals outside his team. For his efforts, the 27-year-old ranks No. 5 on our list having earned $1.5 million last year through endorsements with Coca-Cola, AT&T, Alaska Airlines and Proctor & Gamble. His most recent endorsement with Nestle has paired him in an advertising campaign with 2008 Beijing Olympic gold medal gymnast, Shawn Johnson.

Skiers too felt the economic pinch. Equipment supplier asked its athletes to take a fifty percent reduction in their agreed upon income, a move it said was necessary to stay afloat during the economic crisis. It prompted American Lindsey Vonn, two-time World Cup overall champion, to switch to equipment maker Head in a deal that lasts through 2014. Combined with her sponsorships from Red Bull, UnderArmour, Proctor & Gamble and recent addition Rolex, Vonn earned $2.5 million last year and another $350,000 in prize money, making her No. 3 on our list of highest earning Winter Olympians.

Then there is prolific and capricious skier Bode Miller, who recently rejoined the U.S. ski team and qualified for his third Olympics. He earned $1.3 million last year from sponsors including Nike, Head, and Superfund and in prize money on the World Cup circuit to rank No. 6 on our list. His way to deal with lagging sponsorship for Winter Olympians? Go after the Summer Olympians’ money. The 32-year-old recently announced he intends to compete in the U.S. Tennis Association’s newly created national playoff tournament in hopes of landing a spot in the U.S. Open in August.

The top five:

1t. Shaun White
1t. Kim Yu-Na
3. Lindsey Vonn
4. Ted Ligety
5. Apolo Anton Ohno

Money Can't Buy Happiness, So Man Gives Away Every Penny of His £3 Million Fortune

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:30:38 +0800

http://neatorama.cachefly.net/money-happiness.htm

Karl Rabeder grew up poor and thought that life would be wonderful if he had money. But when he got rich, Karl discovered that he was unhappy … so he decided to give away every penny of his £3 million fortune:

“My idea is to have nothing left. Absolutely nothing,” he told The Daily Telegraph. “Money is counterproductive – it prevents happiness to come.”

Instead, he will move out of his luxury Alpine retreat into a small wooden hut in the mountains or a simple bedsit in Innsbruck.

His entire proceeds are going to charities he set up in Central and Latin America, but he will not even take a salary from these.

“For a long time I believed that more wealth and luxury automatically meant more happiness,” he said. “I come from a very poor family where the rules were to work more to achieve more material things, and I applied this for many years,” said Mr Rabeder.

But over time, he had another, conflicting feeling.

“More and more I heard the words: ‘Stop what you are doing now – all this luxury and consumerism – and start your real life’,” he said. “I had the feeling I was working as a slave for things that I did not wish for or need. I have the feeling that there are lot of people doing the same thing.”

Best and Worst 2010 Cars

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:29:13 +0800

http://autos.yahoo.com/articles/autos_content_landing_pages/1285/best-and-worst-new-cars-for-the-new-year/

Just because a car is brand-new doesn’t mean that it’s a good buy. In fact, many 2010 models suffer from the same woes as older models — not enough power, poor fuel economy and questionable reliability. Others, however, make great choices.

With so many new-car options available, it can be difficult to separate the best from the worst. Making an informed buying decision requires that car shoppers research and compare every vehicle in a given class. Who really has time for that?

To make the process easier, we’ve identified five of the best and worst new cars offered in 2010. While most are entirely new, others are redesigned or refreshed. Be sure to add the better ones to your short list and consider crossing the worst ones off.

2010s You Should Buy

Hyundai Genesis Coupe

A newcomer to the class of affordable sports cars, the Genesis Coupe provides real rear-wheel-drive sports performance for a fraction of the price. Shoppers can choose between a 210-horsepower turbo I4 engine and a 306-horsepower V6. Plus it features a sleek exterior design, an accommodating four-passenger cabin and good scores in federal government crash tests. Not surprisingly, it debuts near the top of its class.

MSRP: $22,000 - $31,000

Ford Transit Connect

The all-new Ford Transit Connect may be the best thing that’s happened to small businesses since QuickBooks. This workman’s van provides a whopping 135 cubic feet of cargo space, an impressive city/highway fuel economy of 22/25 mpg, and loads of business-friendly features. These include an available in-car computer system that uses 2G and 3G networks to access records and track fleet activity. The Transit Connect is so well-liked that it was recently voted North American Truck of the Year.

MSRP: $20,780 - $22,350

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Redesigned for 2010, the E-Class is an all-around better car than the model it replaces. It provides sportier handling dynamics, an elegant exterior design, a lavish cabin and an old-world feel that few luxury large cars can match. It also features revolutionary safety systems like Attention Assist, which utilizes behavioral detection technology to alarm drowsy drivers — and comes standard. Best of all, the new E-Class is cheaper than last year’s model.

MSRP: $48,600 - $58,800

GMC Terrain

The newly-introduced GMC Terrain adds one heck of a value package to the class of affordable compact SUVs. It shares its mechanical elements with the Chevrolet Equinox, but provides a bolder exterior design and loads of snazzy yet practical interior features. Among them is a standard rearview camera, an iPod interface and a sliding rear seat. Best of all, the Terrain affords excellent fuel economy and even leads its class with a highway fuel economy rating of 32 mpg.

MSRP: $24,250 - $31,000

Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon

For 2010, Cadillac set out to create a vehicle that combines the sporty driving dynamics of its CTS sedan with the utility of a station wagon — and that’s exactly what it did. The CTS Sport Wagon leaves critics impressed with its superb performance abilities and stylish design, inside and out. Among its many selling points, the CTS Sport Wagon is available with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drivetrains. It also features a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which is the longest in its class.

2010s You Should Think Twice About

Honda Accord Crosstour

Given the popularity of its coupe and sedan siblings, much was expected of the new Accord Crosstour, an affordable midsize SUV. Sadly, it doesn’t match the hype. It’s luxurious and is backed by Honda’s superb history of reliability, but commands an expensive price tag. Plus, with only 25.7 to 51.3 cubic feet of cargo space, it doesn’t provide much utility. Critics are also split over its odd exterior styling. Because of these cons, the Accord Crosstour ranks near the bottom of its class.

MSRP: $29,670 - $36,220

Dodge Caliber

Despite receiving a mild refresh, the 2010 Caliber still trails behind in the class of affordable compact wagons. It looks bold and provides a respectable 18.5 to 48 cubic feet of cargo room, but is marked by subpar interior materials, underpowered engine options and sloppy handling. For 2010, Dodge has discontinued the relatively sporty SRT trim and no longer offers a lifetime powertrain warranty. With such cutbacks, it’s difficult to justify buying the 2010 Caliber.

MSRP: $17,090 - $20,925

Lexus HS Hybrid

Drivers don’t know what to make of the Lexus HS — the first luxury car to emphasize fuel economy over all else. Its interior comes jam-packed with loads of easy-to-use convenience and safety features, but doesn’t meet typical high levels of Lexus quality. And while its combined 35 mpg fuel economy is great for an entry-level luxury car, it’s nowhere near as impressive as the 50-mpg Prius. As such, it doesn’t excel as either a Lexus or a hybrid. The all-new HS ranks at the bottom of the Upscale Midsize Car class. On top of everything else, the HS has also been included in a global safety recall, along with the Prius, due to a defect with the cars’ braking systems.

MSRP: $34,200 - $36,970

Chrysler Sebring

Don’t be fooled by the elimination of its hood strafes — which most reviewers found hideous — the 2010 Sebring is the same bad investment as it ever was. While its lower trim engine options are underpowered, its strongest engine features dismal fuel economy. Reviewers also complain that its cabin features low-quality materials and not much cargo room. The Sebring’s long-term cost of ownership is also a cause of concern, especially now that Chrysler is no longer offering a lifetime powertrain warranty. Not surprisingly, the Sebring ranks near the bottom of the Affordable Midsize Car class.

MSRP: $22,115 - $34,705

Land Rover LR4

Last year’s LR3 is redesigned for 2010 to provide greater on-road performance and more intuitive controls. However, auto writers point out that the LR4’s lackluster city/highway fuel economy (12/17 mpg), Land Rover’s poor reputation for reliability and high sticker price significantly detract from its overall value. And while it’s a superior off-road performer, it’s highly unlikely that anyone would take an SUV this expensive and luxurious over rough terrain. The LR4 ranks near the bottom of the Luxury Midsize SUV class.

MSRP: $47,250 - $47,250

6 Personality traits to admire and acquire

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:26:28 +0800

http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/life/6-personality-traits-to-admire-and-acquire-576756/

I’ve written numerous articles and posts on difficult people, personalities and relationships: Everything from Manipulative Marys to Bullies in the workplace to people who break boundaries to toxic relationships. Let’s face it: In life, we come across all kinds! As humans, we often focus on those who are negative or toxic leaving it difficult to appreciate those who are positive and healthy. Seeking out individuals with healthy, positive traits, however, may do a lot of good. The more we can surround ourselves with those who are positive and healthy, the more we may model those positive behaviors.

If you really think about it, once in awhile you come across a person who knocks you off your socks…legitimately. Maybe they have a fantastic outlook on life, even during difficult times. Maybe they are really humble, although they are extremely gifted. Maybe they make you feel special. All of these are good.

Below, I’ve listed some of the traits I admire most in people. Although I could probably list a dozen characteristics, I thought I’d list those that seem to be the rarest or most difficult to find.

Selflessness: In a world where many people don’t have the time or the interest in others, selflessness is a quality that seems to be less and less common. People can be selfless in the time they give, the ability to listen, their level of patience and the love that they give. Those who are giving and generous in nature have the power to make others feel loved, appreciated and special. While those who are self-absorbed tend to do the exact opposite.
Tolerance: Those people who are tolerant make us feel comfortable with who we are and special as individuals. All of us are different, and many of us have quirks and idiosyncrasies. After all, these differences make the world go round. Having the ability to accept people for who they are and not expect them to be who we want them to be is important in life, happiness and in the health of our relationships.
Genuineness: Having the ability to be real, authentic and honest is unique in a world where we put so much emphasis on the superficial. Feeling comfortable in one’s skin and being true to one’s self is one of the most beautiful traits one can possess. To have a REAL relationship with someone requires honesty…it requires hearing and giving input or feedback that may not always be popular…it means having the strength to tell it like it is and to not be afraid to face the consequences for doing so…it means loving people for who they really are…deep down…and not for what they appear to be.
Sensitivity: So often we are focused on what is important to ourselves that we can forget about those around us. Those who are sensitive are often thoughtful, appreciative and loving, in a way that makes you feel understood, valued and respected. Often, sensitive people are also self-aware, making them mindful of how they impact others with what they do and say.
Integrity: Call me cynical, but I think this characteristic is especially difficult to find. In a time when people will do things that are underhanded to make an extra buck (Bernie Madoff…can you hear me?), expose their personal lives to the public so they can be famous (balloon boy’s dad and any other reality TV mongers) and do what feels good in the moment without necessarily thinking of the consequences (Tiger Woods), integrity is a characteristic that is especially unique today.
Humility: Whether someone is super-smart, extremely talented or drop-dead gorgeous, there is something extra special about them if they don’t come across as though they know it all the time. Humility in those that possess extraordinary traits make others feel special too.

Enough already: Snow breaks mid-Atlantic records

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:24:00 +0800

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/us_winter_weather

WASHINGTON – Worst winter ever? The second blizzard in less than a week buried the most populous stretch of the East Coast under nearly a foot of snow Wednesday, breaking records for the snowiest winter and demoralizing millions of people still trying to dig out from the previous storm.

Conditions in the nation’s capital were so bad that even plows were advised to get off the roads, and forecasters were eyeing a third storm that could be brewing for next week.

For many families, the first storm was a fun weekend diversion. People even went skiing past Washington’s monuments. But Wednesday’s blizzard quickly became a serious safety concern. The Pennsylvania governor shut down some highways and warned that people who drove were risking their lives.

“I’ve seen enough,” said Bill Daly, 57, as gusts of wind and snow lashed his face in Arlington, Va., where streets were nearly empty just a few days after people had been playing in the snow.

“It’s scary and beautiful at the same time. I wanted to shovel but thought if I had a heart attack it could be a while before anybody found me in this kind of weather.”

Old-timers talk about a storm that blew through Washington in 1922, collapsing the roof on the Knickerbocker theater and killing more than 90 people. Their great-great-grandchildren will be able to describe the back-to-back blizzards of 2010, which were not nearly as deadly but set records for the snowiest winters ever in Washington, Baltimore and Philadelphia.

Up to 16 inches fell in parts of western Maryland. Reagan National Airport outside Washington had nearly 10 inches by 2 p.m., and Baltimore got nearly a foot. That was on top of totals up to 3 feet in some places from the weekend storm.

“I have never in my lifetime seen or heard anything quite like this,” said D.C. Fire Chief Dennis L. Rubin, who was born and raised in the District.

The previous records for snowiest winters were 62.5 inches in Baltimore in 1995-96; 54.4 inches in Washington in 1898-99; and 65.5 inches in Philadelphia in 1995-96.

On Wednesday, Baltimore had 72.3 inches so far this winter, the Washington area had 54.9 inches and Philadelphia had 70.3 inches.

Heavy snow also fell in New York and New Jersey. Airlines canceled hundreds of flights, and New York City’s 1.1 million schoolchildren enjoyed only their third snow day in six years. The Washington area’s two airports had no flights coming or going Wednesday.

The streets of downtown Philadelphia were nearly vacant as people heeded the mayor’s advice to stay home.

Entrance ramps to closed highways were blockaded, and the Pennsylvania National Guard had Humvees stocked with food and blankets ready to help anyone who got stuck. Earlier in the day, about 25 vehicles were involved in two separate pileups on snowy Interstate 80 in central Pennsylvania. One man was killed and 18 people injured.

“For your safety, do not drive,” Gov. Ed Rendell said. “You will risk your life and, potentially, the lives of others if you get stuck on highways or any road.”

Two other people were killed when their snowmobile struck a moving vehicle at an intersection in Lancaster, Pa. Michigan authorities said the storm contributed to at least four traffic deaths there.

In Virginia, where some areas had snow totals exceeding 30 inches from the two storms, winds were howling at 50 mph and temperatures were plunging. Gov. Bob McDonnell urged people to stay indoors.

“This snow reminds me of when I was driving tractor-trailers in Saudi Arabia, and the sandstorm starts and you can’t see the roads,” said Syeed Zada, 55, a plow driver for the Virginia Department of Transportation.

More than 100,000 utility customers in Pennsylvania were without power. Some never got it back after the last storm.

Glenn Harvey, 59, who has a lung problem and needs oxygen, had been staying at a Red Cross shelter in Bentleyville, Pa., since Saturday.

Firefighters brought him there after the storm knocked out power to his house Friday night. His wife stayed home with their dog, where she’s using a kerosene heater to keep warm.

“It’s not been easy on her,” Harvey said.

In Washington, officials announced that federal agencies would stay closed for a fourth straight day Thursday. The longest weather-related government shutdown ever was in 1996, when employees did not have to go to work for a full week.

A Caribou Coffee shop in the capital was standing room only. Most people pecked away at laptop computers as snow fell steadily outside.

“Can’t get to the office, but the work still needs to get done,” said attorney Christopher Erckert.

Driving conditions got so bad that officials in Washington and some nearby suburbs pulled plows off the roads. In Baltimore, Pete Korfiatis dumped snow into the Inner Harbor with a front-end loader until city officials decided the roads were too slick.

“They just shut everything down,” he said.

Heavy snow collapsed part of the roof and a wall at a Smithsonian Institution storage building in Suitland, Md. It was not clear if any artifacts were damaged.

The District of Columbia’s representative in Congress asked the White House to declare a federal emergency to help the capital recover.

In New York, George and Natividad Sanchez trudged over slushy sidewalks in boots, parkas and scarves to take their 2-year-old daughter to see “Sesame Street Live: When Elmo Grows Up.”

“I didn’t want to disappoint her,” George Sanchez said as the family arrived for the show at a theater in Madison Square Garden.

The news wasn’t all bad. Washington has not had a homicide in a week. Ski areas were doing brisk business, when people could get to them. And private contractors were making money plowing driveways and parking lots.

But many people were just ready for the ordeal to end.

In a yard in Westmont, N.J., someone used bright orange paint to scrawl nature a message on a white backdrop: “Dear Mr Frost,” it read. “We’re good w/ snow.”

FEUSCO Presidents/Chairmen

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:23:53 +0800

Presidents/Chairman Before the War

1935-36 Primitivo Javier

1937-38 Wenceslao Cornejo

1939-40 Catalino Hernandez

1940-41 Manuel Collantes

Far Eastern University Central Student Organization (FEUCSO)
Presidents

1946- 47 Pricilo Mejia
Institute of Accounts Business and Finance

1947- 48 Enrique “Ike” M. Joaquin
Institute of Arts and Sciences

1948 – 49 Oseas A. Del Rosario
Institute of Graduate Studies

1949 –50 Leonidas Arriola
Institute of Technology

1950 – 51 Clemente M. Roxas
Institute of Education

1951 –52 Eliodoro Robles
Institute of Arts and Sciences

1952 – 53 Clemente M. Soriano
Institute of Law

1953 – 54 Ifor B. Solidum
Institute of Arts and Sciences

1954 – 55 Jaime Ma. Flores
Institute of Technology

1955 – 56 Alberto Javier, Jr.
Institute of Law

1956 – 57 Ronaldo Balboa
Institute of Medicine

1957 – 58 Artemio Panganiban
Institute of Law

1958 – 59 Jesus Elbinias
Institute of Accounts Business and Finance

1959 – 60 Crispin Fernandez
Institute of Law

1960 – 61 Fernando Atienza, Jr.
Institute of Medicine

1961 – 62 Evergisto C. Macatulad
Institute of Accounts Business and Finance

1962 – 63 Augusto Kimpo
Institute of Arts and Sciences

1963 – 64 Antonio Villa Juan
Institute of Accounts Business and Finance

1964 – 65 Bienvenido L. Aragon, Jr.
Institute of Technology

1965 – 66 Melchor Monsod
Institute of Law

1966 – 67 Ramon Sto. Domingo
Institute of Law

1967 – 68 Melanio Capistrano
Institute of Law

+1968 Mario Monasterial
Institute of Law

1968 – 69 Martin Diño

1969 – 70 Benrome Abao
Institute of Law

1970 – 71 Manuel Katapang
Institute of Law

1971 – 72 Carmelo Africa, Jr.
Institute of Tchnology

1988- 89 Rex Sandoval
Institute of Arts and Sciences

1989 – 90 Ronilo Perea
Institute of Arts and Sciences

1990 - 91 Eladio Sebastian
Institute of Arts and Sciences

1991 - 92 Leland Lopez
Institute of Arts and Sciences

1992 - 93 Alexis Claros
Institute of Arts and Sciences

1993 – 94 Sherwin De Peralta
Institute of Arts and Sciences

1994 – 95 Dioscoro Tolentino Jr.
Institute of Accounts Business and Finance

1995 - 96 Arnold Pruna
Institute of Education

1996 - 97 Eugene De Jesus
Institute of Accounts Business and Finance

1997 – 98 Melchor Ng
Institute of Accounts Business and Finance

1998 – 99 Aldwin John Magpali
Institute of Arts and Sciences

1999 - 2000 Victor Avegen Ventura
Institute of Accounts Business and Finance

2000 - 2001 Dennis Medina
Institute of Arts and Sciences

2001 Geoffrey Ellorin
Institute of Arts and Sciences

2001-2002 Eric Ganaden
Institute of Arts and Sciences

2002 - 2003 Ramina Kaye Tan
Institute of Accounts Business and Finance

2003 - 2004 Marc Manalo
Institute of Arts and Sciences

2004 - 2005 Jeffrey Mora
Institute of Arts and Sciences

2005 - 2006 Jan Vincent Galas
Institute of Arts and Sciences

2006 - 2007 Michael Alexander Pamular
Institute of Arts and Sciences

2007 – 2008 Ira Montecastro
Institute of Arts and Sciences

2008 – 2009 Weber N. Amores
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

2009 – 2010 Ramon Victor G. Roxas Jr.
Institute of Nursing

The Least-Trusted Banks in America

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:22:16 +0800

http://finance.yahoo.com/banking-budgeting/article/108801/the-least-trusted-banks-in-america?mod=bb-checking_savings

Customers of the biggest banks in the United States are the least likely to believe their financial institution does what’s best for them as opposed to what’s best for the bottom line, according to a new report from Forrester Research.

The report, Forrester’s annual Customer Advocacy rankings, ranks nearly 50 financial services firms in the United States by the percentage of each firm’s customers who agree with the statement: “My financial provider does what’s best for me, not just its own bottom line.” The results are based on a survey of about 4,500 consumers.

The bottom seven of this year’s rankings, first to last, are Bank of America, Chase, Capital One, TD/Commerce, Fifth Third, Citibank, and in last place, HSBC.

Among Bank of America customers, 33 percent agreed with the statement above, while 31 percent of Chase customers agreed, 29 percent of Capital One customers agreed, 28 percent of TD/Commerce Bank customers agreed, 27 percent of Fifth Third Bank customers agreed and 26 percent of Citibank customers agreed.

Among HSBC customers, only 16 percent said they agreed with the statement, the lowest customer advocacy score ever reported in the United States, down 10 percentage points from HSBC’s score last year and in line with other recent similar poor rankings of other HSBC units.

An HSBC spokesman declined to comment on the survey, since he hadn’t seen it yet.

To put the rankings in perspective, large banks have generally been at the bottom of the list since the survey was initiated seven years ago, and many of the banks have alternated between the bottom spots year to year, said a Forrester vice president, Bill Doyle, who wasn’t aware of anything particular HSBC has done recently that would make its score so low. Last year, for instance, Capital One was at the bottom with 22 percent of its customers agreeing with the statement. In fact, the more customers a banking institution has, the lower its customer advocacy ranking is likely to be, according to Forrester.

Why the poor rankings for the big banks? “Part of it is that the banks are preoccupied with their bottom line. They are public institutions who are in business to make money for their shareholder and inevitably, that shows to customers,” Mr. Doyle said.

A high customer advocacy ranking means that customers tend to believe their bank takes their side in disputes, does what is right even if it’s not required by regulation to do so, gives fair rates or performance comparisons and is clear about charges and fees, Mr. Doyle said.

Wells Fargo/Wachovia, by contrast, did better than the other big banks. About 40 percent of its customers said they believed the bank does what is best for them, with Wachovia’s customers probably pulling up Wells Fargo’s ratings, Mr. Doyle said. Wachovia has generally done substantially better in the rankings than the other big banks.

According to Mr. Doyle, customer advocacy rankings are a predictor of customer retention and attrition, and customers who rate their financial service firms high are more likely to consider their firm for additional products. In contrast, customers who give their banks a low ranking are most likely to switch in the next year and are “going to be reluctant to put any more money and open new accounts at those institutions,” Mr. Doyle said.

This means the low rankings don’t bode well for the bigger banks, many of which are reaching federal limits for how much they can increase deposits by acquiring other banks and must rely on attracting more customers to increase revenue.

Credit unions ranked much higher than the big banks, as they have in previous years, with 70 percent of credit union customers saying their financial institution puts their interests first. Mr. Doyle said this is because of credit unions’ different operating model — they are owned by customers — and because they tend to emphasize customer service.

After credit unions, the bank run by USAA, a financial services company that serves the military and their families, came in next with 64 percent of its customers agreeing with the statement. It was followed by ING Direct, with 46 percent. Regional banks including PNC, U.S. Bank and BB&T came in next with rankings similar to Wells Fargo/Wachovia. Regional banks, which often can’t afford big advertising campaigns, tend to emphasize customer service, Mr. Doyle said.

Insurance firms, meanwhile, remained the highest rated firms for customer advocacy, with more than half of all customers rating their insurers high on customer advocacy and insurers representing two-thirds of the firms in the top half of the rankings. The ranking of investment firms, meanwhile, fell below banks for the first time since the rankings began. Investment firm rankings tend to fall when the market isn’t doing well, Mr. Doyle said.

Michael Jordan's first All-Star Game jersey

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:21:07 +0800

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Phenomenal-Swag-Michael-Jordan-s-first-All-Star;_ylt=Aqb1TgnlDJIQzrxOo1.2IW.8vLYF?urn=nba,218568

Wednesday is the 25th anniversary of Feb. 10, 1985, which just so happens to be the date of Michael Jeffrey Jordan’s first All-Star Game. For the first time since the day he was frozen-out, a reissue of that jersey will be … reissued. This is great news for everyone, even people who don’t like Michael Jordan.

Why is that, Trey? For a lot of reasons, Internet.

First and foremost, this is a historic jersey, no duh. It marks the first huge success of Jordan’s illustrious career, and also one of the earliest slights that Jordan imagined and used to make himself the greatest player in the history of basketball. Pretty big deal.

Also, these jerseys are the best that the All-Star Game has ever seen. They’re so good, in fact, that they could even serve as a reissue for Jordan’s last All-Star Game, as an updated version with way bigger shorts was used for the 2003 contest. Certainly better than his 2002 effort, where Jordan missed a wide-open dunk wearing a Wizards jersey. These are the dark times that we don’t talk about.

And for the haters, if you’re really anti-Mike, you should love this jersey because it symbolizes a time when even the best basketball players in the world were hating on Michael Jordan. It’s like a schadenfreude shirt, or maybe a shirt-enfreude.

Manuel v. Pangilinan Awarded

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:09:12 +0800

the main contributor for the Manuel V. Pangilinan Center for Student Leadership building in Ateneo de Manila University, in which all of the student organizations are based.

http://www.admu.edu.ph/index.php?p=120&type=2&sec=29&aid=7836

Policies

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:59:51 +0800

1. Always come on time

2. Requires common sense

3. Be active

4. Remove pessimism

5. Be attentive

6. Have the initiative

7. Be open-minded

8. Mind your head

9. Go the extra mile

10. Keep yourself grounded

Topic: FEUCSO Information System

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:53:35 +0800

1. Acquire primary data through interviews of both FEUSCO (FEU) and COA (ADMU) organization heads or representatives.

2. Acquire secondary data through newspaper clippings, thesis papers, research papers etc.

3. Analyze and compare the primary and secondary data of each school relative to each other in order to acquire a better picture of the school system.

4. Analyze and compare the schools with each other to see the differences in terms of approaches being done by their respective organizations.

5. Create a comprehensive analysis and recommendation based on the data acquired.

Research Plan

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:46:37 +0800

What?

1. to find out if the Far Eastern university student organization body is efficient in terms of disseminating information among its charged organizations.

2. to compare the methods done by the Far Eastern University mother organization against an arbitrary universitiy’s mother organization.

3. to use Ateneo de Manila University as a measuring stick and means of comparison for the Far Eastern University information dissemination system.

Who?

1. Verzonilla, to interview and ask the head of the FEUCSO with regards to the system being done by the university as well as how information is being distributed among organizations.

2. Paz, Sampang, Leyba are to further acquire information regarding sample organizations and ask how they axquire their information from the FEUCSO. Comparing the data from FEUCSO itself with the organizations it is charged with.

3. Sy, to interview and ask one of the organization heads in Ateneo de Manila University regarding the systems done and are being used by the aforementioned university.

4. Dela Cruz, Nery, Chincuanco, are to further acquire secondary information regarding other universities with regards to their system of organizational commuinication.

Schedule

1. Feb. 6 Sy, to interview the Ateneo organization head of the Electronics and Communications Department.

2. Feb. 8-10 Verzonilla, to interview the FEUCSO president.

3. Feb. 11-15 Set meeting for the summarization and analysis of the data acquired by Leyba, Sampang, Dela Cruz, Nery, Chincuanco, and Paz

4. Feb. 16-21 Full intergration of primary and secondary data, and analysis with recommendations.