Wake Up Call: President Bush ‘Pardons’ Himself
Either I was asleep at the wheel or I forgot to post this. Here’s a YouTube video of CNN’s Jack Cafferty talking about a bill which secretly includes a provision to pardon George Bush of war crimes. It is matters such as these why I question the intelligence of humanity at times. When you don’t question life, this is the outcome.
When will Americans get ’sick and tired’? I’ve been ’sick and tired’ for years, hence my thoughts, rants and occasional street action to encourage Americans to think.
A Teary Farewell: Bill Gates Has Left The Building
Credit: REUTERS/Robert Galbraith
It’s official: Bill Gates has retired from Microsoft. Five years ago, he began a slow and transitional path to this day when he handed his day-to-day responsibilities to now CEO, Steve Ballmer. I have many fond memories of Bill and Microsoft. I made many friends at the company, gained the respect of Bill himself and had the pleasure of learning about life, business and success from an incredible individual.
Regardless of whatever opinion you might have of Bill and Microsoft, he certainly deserves the honor and recognition for his contribution to our modern world. He, along with many other role models, helped define my passion for many interests over the years. I am especially grateful for all the wonderful experiences I’ve had with Microsoft over the years. Bill was supportive the entire way.
By Daisuke Wakabayashi
REDMOND, Washington (Reuters) - Bill Gates said a teary goodbye on Friday to Microsoft Corp, the software maker he built into the world’s most valuable technology company based on the ambitious goal of placing a computer on every desk and in every home.
He leaves Microsoft, which he co-founded with childhood friend Paul Allen in 1975, to focus on his philanthropic organization, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the world’s largest charity, funded in part by his vast fortune.
At an employee event at Microsoft’s scenic headquarters campus here, Gates joined Chief Executive Steve Ballmer on stage to deliver a short speech and field questions from employees.
“There won’t be a day in my life when I won’t be thinking about Microsoft, the great things that we’re doing and wanting to help,” said Gates, who wiped away tears as the group of employees rose to give him a standing ovation.
Ballmer, a Harvard University classmate who joined Microsoft at Gates’ behest, got choked up as he tried to describe Gates’ impact on the company and society at large.
“There’s no way to say thanks to Bill. Bill’s the founder. Bill’s the leader,” said Ballmer. “This is Bill’s baby.”
Gates will leave behind a life’s work developing software to devote energy to finding new vaccines or to microfinance projects in the developing world. He will remain chairman of Microsoft and work on special technology projects.
Ballmer spoke about how he contemplated quitting Microsoft a month after joining the company and return to Stanford University business school. Bill passionately implored him to stay and laid out the vision of the company.
(via Reuters)
Lijit Becomes Media Sponsor of SXSW Live Coverage
I’m pleased to announce that on March 5, social search and website statistics provider Lijit became a premier sponsor of my forthcoming live video coverage of the world famous SXSW conference held in Austin, Texas this March 7-11. I’m very proud of this new relationship and am grateful to Lijit’s VP of Business Development, Micah Baldwin, and the entire staff.
My appearance at this great event as a panelist and social media producer is possible due to Lijit’s support and generosity. It’s also a wonderful endorsement of my social media work and I’m thankful for Lijit’s participation.
Starting March 7th, Lijit will become part of an integral SXSW experience which will encompass ronaldlewis.com, Justin.TV, Interviews Podcast and Twitter. Be sure to tune in for exciting panels, parties, conversations and much more!
Microsoft, Google and Yahoo! Fined $32 Million by DOJ
Microsoft, Google and Yahoo! Fined $32 Million today by the DOJ for alleged participation in online gambling operations. Microsoft is reportedly donating its portion to charity.
DOJ press release (excerpts)
St. Louis, MO: Microsoft Corporation, Google, Inc. and Yahoo! have entered into settlements with the U.S. to resolve claims that they promoted illegal gambling, United States Attorney Catherine L. Hanaway announced today. The total amount of the three settlements is $31.5 million in value to the United States.
These settlements involve corporate conduct the Government found in violation of the Federal Wire Wager Act, federal wagering excise tax laws and various states’ statutes and municipal laws prohibiting gambling. Unregulated commercial gambling is illegal throughout the United States.
Keeping It Simple, Man!
Just two months in, I’ve once again refreshed ronaldlewis.com. This time, the refresh and layout is fairly basic and simple — A theme I’m going forward with for a lot of things. I believe we often underestimate the power of simplicity — That “Less is More” in many cases. Thus, I hope you find your visit here easier and more engaging. Thanks for visiting.