Demographics are the closest thing out there to a reliable fortune teller. A nation’s destiny is foretold in its people; the makeup of the population determines what work will be done, what goods will be in demand, and which politicians will take power. Changing demographics are driving growth in India and China, but they are… [Read More]
Blog
Why I Love My Netbook
I know, I know, it’s so horribly old-fashioned in a tablet world, but I am the happy owner of my second ASUS eee PC. It’s a perfect machine for traveling, whether to downtown or halfway across the world. Mine is loaded with the full version of Microsoft Office, so I can do any work I… [Read More]
One First National, in Cans
When I was in college, I had an internship at Sidley & Austin, a big law firm. The offices were in what was then known as One First National Plaza, home of the First National Bank of Chicago. Of all the buildings I’ve worked in, it’s my favorite: sweeping shape, huge open lobby, magnificent plaza… [Read More]
The Irish Pub Directory
I have a theory that every city of any size in the world has a Chinese restaurant, an Indian restaurant, an Irish bar, and a McDonald’s. Further confirmation emerged when I found The Irish Pubs Directory. A few places are missing, like the legendary Abbey Pub in Chicago (where I saw the Wolfe Tones, who… [Read More]
Paying for College: Admissions and Financial Aid
College admissions isn’t quite as difficult as most people think; once you get past the top 30 or whatever colleges, most students who are reasonably serious and reasonably prepared will be accepted. The real trick is paying for it. Different colleges have different approaches. Some colleges are need-blind: they draw up their freshman class without… [Read More]
