Hasta La Gadget!

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama says his travels beyond the capital and his visits with selected letter writers demonstrate the need for Congress to act on his stalled economic agenda.

In his weekly radio and Internet address Obama cited meetings this week with a college student and with owners of a Colorado sandwich shop franchise. Obama went to Colorado and Texas this week, continuing a practice of meeting with chosen pen pals whose letters catch the eye of the White House.

Obama says the economy is better off. But he says Republicans in Congress have blocked measures, such as an increase in the minimum wage, that would improve people’s lives.

Republicans argue Obama’s proposals would hurt business and have proposed their own measures that have also stalled in a divided Congress.

Read Obama’s full address below:

Hi, everybody. This week, I spent some time in Colorado and Texas, talking with people about what’s going on in their lives.

One of them was Elizabeth Cooper, who’ll be a college junior this fall. She wrote to tell me something I hear often: how hard it is for middle-class families like hers to afford college. And she shared something I know many of you feel when you wonder what’s going on in Washington. She said she feels “not significant enough to be addressed, not poor enough for people to worry [about], and not rich enough to be cared about.”

I ran for President to fight for Americans just like Elizabeth – people who work hard, do everything right, and just want a chance to build a decent life for themselves and their families.

And after the worst economic crisis in generations, our businesses have now created nearly 10 million new jobs over the past 52 months. The unemployment rate has fallen to its lowest point since 2008. By almost every measure, our economy is better off than it was five years ago.

But while we’ve created more jobs at this point of the year than any year since 1999, too many families barely earn what they did in 1999. It’s harder to pay for college, save, or retire, because people’s wages and incomes have not gone up. Nearly all the gains of the recovery are going to the very top – and aren’t making a difference in your lives.

And I believe America does better when the middle class does better. And I’ve laid out an opportunity agenda to create jobs, train workers, educate our kids, and make sure hard work actually pays off.

These are the things we should be doing to grow the middle class and help folks work their way into the middle class. And it’s pretty uncontroversial stuff. I hope we can work together on it. And I’m always willing to compromise if folks have other ideas or if it advances generally the interests of working Americans.

But so far this year, Republicans in Congress have blocked every serious idea to strengthen the middle class. Lifting the minimum wage, fair pay, student loan reform – they’ve said no to all of it. And that’s when I’ve acted this year to help working Americans on my own– when Congress won’t act.

I’ve taken actions to attract new jobs, lift workers’ wages, help students pay off their loans, and more. And the Republican plan right now is not to do some of this work with me – instead, it’s to sue me. That’s actually what they’re spending their time on. It’s a political stunt that’s going to waste months of America’s time. And by the way, they’re going to pay for it using your hard-earned tax dollars.

I have a better idea: do something, Congress. Do anything to help working Americans. Join the rest of the country. Join me, I’m looking forward to working with you.

You know, on Tuesday, I met with Carolyn Reed and her husband David, who own six Silver Mine Sub shops in Colorado. Two days later, they announced they’re giving their hourly employees a raise to ten dollars and ten cents an hour.

They’re not waiting for Congress. Carolyn said, “We are happy to be a part of what I hope will be a growing voluntary trend in increased wages.”

Carolyn and Americans like her all across the country are happy to do their part. Congress now needs to step up and do its part. And next week, I’ll travel to a couple of job sites to talk about how Democrats and Republicans can work together to grow the economy and protect nearly 700,000 jobs by passing a highway bill by the end of the summer.

I’m here because hardworking Americans like Elizabeth and Carolyn. That’s something I’ll never forget – it’s something I’ll never stop fighting for. Thanks, and have a great weekend.

As the tech job sector continues to grow in the United States there is a constant competition going on between employers to get the best talent available. However, there is a true disconnect between many businesses looking to hire talent and what the high tech worker really wants from a job. Many businesses are undervaluing culture and overvaluing wages. Many believe this leads to lower retention and production. I thought it would be interesting to dive into a recent report done by The JDL Group and a technology consulting firm, Paige Technologies. The February 2014 data and study focused on a survey of 275 high tech job candidates. Many of the key takeaways were very interesting and should be eye-opening for c-suite level employees. All of the results and assessments have a direct effect on predicting job performance.

1. Tech Job Applicants Value Projects Over Profits And Power

Yes, tech job seekers would rather work on interesting projects over jobs that pay them higher. Tech workers in demand would much rather build cool things that function well and look good than make more money. They truly enjoy science and aesthetics way more than affiliation and commerce. A focus on quality is very important, as well as the surroundings they work in. Tech job applicants have a deep desire for knowledge and real enthusiasm for curiosity. They are motivated by the value of security and entertainment of the work rather than the power and recognition from peers, as well as public praise the work brings to them. Employers need to understand motives and values of the tech job seeker if they want to recruit the best and the brightest in the tech world.

2. Tech Job Applicants Are Conscientious

The best of the best in the tech industry are prudent individuals who are inquisitive. They are imaginative and quick-witted. They are visionaries who have self-control and are organized. They are not status seekers and act more often than not as team players. They share the ideals and believe in the big picture of the project or business. The top tech job seekers tend to be quick and independent book and theory learners rather than practical and hands-on.

3. Tech Job Applicants Are More Cautious Than You Think

Many think top tech talent employees are bold individuals. However, they are not overly self-confident and are willing to listen to advice. They are very cautious and resistant to change and reluctant to take even reasonable chances for fear of negative evaluations. The best of the best tech performers are not dramatic and do not need to be noticed. They are not always eager to please and are not reliant on others opinions. They believe in making sure all data and pieces of the puzzle are in place before moving forward and never push the envelope.

4. Tech Job Applicants Are Analytical Thinkers

Tech talent is made up of analytical thinkers. Employers should be looking to hire innovative individuals who hone in on logic and analysis. They will not get as high of performance out of individuals whose judgment is impacted by action or interpersonal motives. Past experience and carefulness is very important.

So what does all this mean and what should an employer’s key takeaways be from tech job trends? Compatibility is key. Positive tech job fits are based on many factors, however as more and more assessments are done and this market continues to grow, cultural fit is key. Chris Wood, the Managing Partner of Paige Technologies, believes people create culture, which ultimately becomes what differentiates one organization from the next. “Organizations are really only a representation of the people in them, with stakes high, employers must be diligent about identifying traits and mapping culture,” says Wood.

Employers who want the top tech talent should look at assessment results like these to find the best “true fit” for their organization that will lead to the best performance on the job. These individuals will stay the longest and be the most loyal to the organization thus making the business have more appeal to other potential tech job applicants and be more profitable in the long run.

In a world where the tech job market continues to change, employers need to continue to evolve culturally if they want to find employees who are more than just a set a skills, but rather the complete package.

Disclosure: JGrill Media is a consultant of Paige Technologies.

About the Author: Jason Grill is an attorney and the founder of JGrill Media. He is the co-founder of Sock 101 and the host of the Entrepreneur KC Show. Jason contributes regularly to national publications, radio and TV stations. Follow Jason on Twitter @JasonGrill and on Facebook.

Behind every remarkable woman is a unique life story that has yet to be told. Though her knees may buckle in the face of extreme hardship, she develops strength to rise up and continue excelling. Carmen Rodriguez embodies this mantra. She uses her story as a propellant in her quest to change the world through civic service. By day, she’s a hard working Human Resources professional at BET Networks. By night, she’s Super-Mom managing single parenthood and never-ending career and personal conquests.

Underneath it all, Rodriguez has overcome many challenges in order to achieve success. As a child, she endured immense trauma as a result of her father being murdered in her native El Salvador — he was shot twice and the body was discovered in a nearby well.

Rodriguez’s struggles did not end there. At eight-years-old, Rodriguez and her older sisters crossed the U.S.-Mexican border illegally: “[It] took me and my sisters 24 days to cross the border. We spent a few days in Guatemala and most of the time in Mexico. I was so young that I didn’t fully understand the risk we were taking. At that time, ‘crossing the border’ meant reuniting with my mother; it also meant having a normal life.”

Instead of allowing these events to break her willpower, she started a new and better life for herself in the United States. She eventually attained legal citizenship and decided to use this new life to make a positive impact on others. Rodriguez began to write as an outlet of self-expression in high school; she co-launched a news medium at Mount Vernon High School called “El Punto Latino”, (the Latino Point of View).

Her ambition wouldn’t allow her to be content with an advanced high school diploma alone. Defying the odds, Rodriguez had the determination to complete her bachelor’s in Communication, with a Business minor from George Mason University, while working full-time at BET Networks and mothering a young son. As a first generation college student in her family, Rodriguez desired to use her higher education experience to serve as a voice for the Latino community and achieve economic mobility.

Photo Credit: Photo Courtesy of Gurpreet K. Sandhu Location: BET Networks Washington, D.C.

Rodriguez continues to use that voice by serving on nonprofit boards and as a public speaker at George Mason University and elementary/high schools in Fairfax County and Prince William County.

Mrs. Melvy Jensen taught Rodriguez in high school and has watched her become the woman she is today. She asserts, “Carmen is an amazing person. When I first met her she was in the 10th grade and was already working with her mother at a local restaurant where her mother worked. She kept her grades in good academic standing. For a young 10th grader, she was very dedicated and determined with incredible insight toward a bright and promising future. She is so motivated to always do the best on anything she undertakes. She is a very compassionate and caring person, always willing to volunteer for a good cause.”

Her high school endeavors were just the beginning of a longstanding commitment to do good. For the past four years, she has served as a liaison to many BET Networks employee engagement and community outreach initiatives including College Bound and Everybody Wins! D.C.. These programs largely assist low-income and at-risk youth through mentorship in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Presently, she is a project manager overseeing various technical and logistical functions for the production and administrative freelancers at BET Networks.

The lesson to learn from the “Carmen Rodriguez Story” is that through hard work and dedication you can achieve your personal goals. Though life may hand you obstacles, you can turn them into opportunities. Rodriguez implores you to “Dream big and trust that anything is possible. Have faith in yourself, set goals, take action and never allow fear to stop you from following through with your dreams.”

Aquarium
Outside the New England Aquarium, watch the sea lions play for free, and next door find a Simons IMAX Theatre for some of the best nature documentaries available

Back Bay
This upscale Boston neighborhood is famous for its rows of Victorian brownstone homes, as well as restaurants and shopping nearby on Newbury and Boylston Streets.

Castle Island
Located in South Boston this 22-acre site has been home to a fortification since 1634 and has some of the best views of the city.

Duck Tour
By land or by sea — these amphibious bus tours take riders all over Boston and the Charles River every single day. Quack quack.

Esplanade
The “Esplanade” is a state-owned park situated on the banks of the Charles River. Jogging, bike riding, boat rentals and more are available here.

Fenway Park
The oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, this iconic Boston landmark has been hosting games since 1912. Fenway is a must-visit venue for any sports fan.

Good Will Hunting
“How do like them apples?” This Academy Award-winning movie was set and (somewhat) filmed in Boston.

Harpoon Brewery
Take a tour of the brewery and sample the suds, but don’t miss out on the beer and delicious pretzels in the great hall afterwards. For even more fun, time your trip for the twice-yearly Harpoonfest.

ICA
The Institute of Contemporary Art is a museum and exhibition space along the Boston waterfront. It currently has free admission on Thursday evenings from 5-9 p.m.

JP Licks
J.P. Licks is Boston’s best place for homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt and fresh-roasted coffee.

Kendall Square
Restaurants, lab space, tech start ups, residences, parks and theaters all converge in this beautiful Cambridge neighborhood.

Landsdowne Street
Located in the shadow of the Green Monster, Landsdowne Street offers nightlife and dining options for both Red Sox spectators and the general public.

Marathon Monday
Thousands of spectators cheer on the amazing runners for 26.2 miles through small Massachusetts towns into the city’s center on Patriot’s Day.

North End
Settled in the 1630’s this primarily Italian neighborhood boasts some of the most sought after restaurants in the city, as well as the best dessert shops.

Omni Parker House
The Omni Parker House is America’s longest continuously operating luxury hotel and is located along the historic Freedom Trail adjacent to Beacon Hill.

Paul Revere
Visit Boston my children and you shall hear of the midnight ride of Paul Revere.You can also tour his house. You can also tour the Old North Church where he hung the famed lanterns.

Quincy Market
This building offers food and shopping in the heart of Faneuil Hall — don’t miss the street performers and statue of Red Auerbach (Celtics legend) right outside.

Rose Kennedy Greenway
One of the best parts about the Big Dig disaster (kids, Google this) is the Rose Kennedy Greenway — a linear sprawling grassy area that stretches around the North End and financial district and includes public seating, fountains, and more.

SOWA
The largest open-air market in New England takes place in the South End and has all types of specialty foods, clothing and other items for sale.

T
The “T” is the subway portion of the MBTA system that brings travelers all around the metro Boston area. Use the subway and its various colored lines to get around during your visit.

Union Oyster House
Since 1826 this restaurant has been serving delicious seafood and other fare to hungry Bostonians — located just outside the North End and Faneuil Hall.

Victory Gardens
The Victory Gardens are the oldest continuously operating Word War II Victory Gardens in the United States, spanning 7.5 acres with over 500 gardens.

Whitey Bulger
South Boston mafia king and recent convict. A new Bulger biopic starring Johnny Depp entitled Black Mass is currently filming all over the city.

X-ray
This one is technically cheating — but “X-ray” represents all of the top hospitals in Boston including Mass General, Brigham and Women’s, and Boston Children’s Hospital. Ill patients come from all around the world to be seen and treated in Boston.

Yawkey Way
Busy street just inside the Fenway Park gates with gift shops, sausage carts, and thousands of excited fans.

Zakim Bridge
A massive, cable-stayed bridge connecting Boston, Charlestown, and Interstate 93. Colored lights showcase the gorgeous architecture nightly.

When a mystery bidder from Singapore paid $2.2 million at a charity auction to have lunch with Warren Buffett, few thought he was getting a bargain. But after introducing “the Oracle of Omaha” to attendees at Forbes 2014 Summit on Philanthropy last month, I’m not so sure.

Quite a few of the guests at the Forbes Summit lunch (held at the New York Public Library) had signed up for Bill Gates and Buffett’s Giving Pledge, a commitment by billionaires to give at least half their wealth to charity — during their lifetimes or upon their death. That’s at least $500-plus million a pop. Now that’s an expensive lunch.

On the one hand, the popularity of the Forbes Summit and the response to the Giving Pledge (as of May 2014, 127 billionaires have signed the pledge) may simply demonstrate that beyond a certain point, privately accumulated wealth loses its utility value. As Buffett put it, “Nothing I am giving away will change my life, materially, in any way.” Joking about the billionaires who had turned down the invitation to join his Giving Pledge, Buffett remarked, “What they’re really saying is that they can’t make ends meet on $500 million.”

But that’s not all that’s going on. There are growing indications that for high net worth individuals, leaving a legacy is about more than just passing core values like honesty and integrity on to the next generation; it’s about harnessing financial success to help make the community and the world a better place.

According to the World Wealth Report 2014, released in mid-June by RBC Wealth Management and Capgemini, the vast majority of global high net worth investors (92 percent) said they feel it is important that they give their time, money or expertise to causes and activities that make a positive social impact — a sentiment that is strongest among investors under the age of 40.

People of wealth have always volunteered on boards of not-for-profit organizations, or have given their money to charity. (The New York Public Library’s main branch is now named the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building following a $100 million commitment by the private equity maven to the city’s library system.) But today, the percentage of philanthropists giving in traditional ways is equaled by the percentage who are “making investment choices with a clearly defined social objective.”

The World Wealth Report 2014 indicates that “high net worth individuals are venturing beyond traditional means of fulfilling their social impact goals.”

Social impact investing enables investors to align their investment strategies with their values. Those values can range from supporting healthy environments, sustaining communities or promoting diverse workforces and humane working environments.

Unlike traditional financial investments, the returns in impact investing aren’t measured solely in dollars. They are measured by changes in social or environmental policies and outcomes. While the degree of change can be difficult to measure, there are signs that the increasing flows of investment dollars into impact investing are indeed making a difference.

Take for example the increased transparency and accountability at publicly traded companies around the topic of sustainability.

In early June, the Governance & Accountability Institute reported that 72 percent of companies listed on the S&P 500 index now publish corporate sustainability reports. That’s not only an overwhelming majority, but a stark improvement over the mere 19 percent of S&P 500 companies that did so in 2011.

Sustainability reports highlight the economic, environmental and social impacts of companies’ everyday activities. The reports also showcase an organization’s values and demonstrate the link between its strategy and those values.

It’s not a stretch to think that these sustainability reports cater, at least in part, to social impact investors/shareholders, who have become an increasingly important constituency to corporate management.

Corporate responsibility is no longer about how you give money away; it’s about the way you make money — about the culture and the values that inform your operating practices.

A company that gives millions to organizations that preserve and protect the environment yet pays no mind to the impact its own operations have on natural resources isn’t practicing true corporate responsibility.

Clearly, something important is going on. Behind the growing interest in corporate responsibility and “investments of purpose” is, I believe, recognition that we are all members of a global community whose future is our individual and collective responsibility. In a world with seven billion people living in it, a world in which all economies are interconnected and interdependent, no longer can it be argued that any action by a private party doesn’t impact somebody else, somewhere in the world, in some way. That’s why philanthropy and stewardship and community are closely related.

When we see ourselves as members of a community — whether local, regional, national or even global — it is a short step to feeling responsible for others in that community, to viewing our actions in terms of the effect they have on others, and to converting privately accumulated wealth with a personal utility value of zero to socially impactful giving and investing strategies that can help create a future that is better than today.