American Entrepreneurial Success

Wealthiest Americans:
1. Bill Gates - $51 Billion
2. Warren Buffett - $40 Billion
3. Paul Allen - $22 Billion
4. Michael Dell - $18 Billion
5. Larry Ellison - $17 Billion

4 out of the top 5 have made their money in the technology world. Now, that's solid wealth creation - total net worth of $108 Billion. Got to love the american entrepreneurial machine. None of them were super rich when they started their companies. You would appreciate this phenomenon more if you keep going down the list. The next five are from the Walton family, another great american entrepreneurial success story (called Wal-Mart.) And 11th on the list - Steve Balmer, another Microsoft billionaire.

Another Bushism

This one is really good -

Donald Rumsfeld is giving the President his daily briefing on Iraq. He concludes by saying: "Yesterday, 3 Brazilian soldiers were killed.""OH NO!" the President exclaims. "That's terrible!" His staff sits stunned at this display of emotion, nervously watching as the President sits, head in hands. Finally, President looks up and asks, "How many is a brazillion?"

Talking about Bush, have you read the open letter written by Michael Moore.

Kaun Banega Crorepati

My little sister was on Kaun Banega Crorepati (Indian version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire) yesterday. It is exciting. I have not seen the show yet but saw her pictures on the official website. Its very very exciting. I am really proud of her. The best part was that they started airing ads in the morning and she saw the first ad right when I was on the phone with her. Man, she was excited. Can't wait to see her on TV.

Free Healthcare in the US

Conservatives and Liberals seem to be reaching a consensus that US needs some form of free healthcare - for different reasons though. Healthcare costs have been rising and have become a big part of the expenses incurred by large corporations. Starbucks spends more money on providing healthcare benefits to its employees ($200 million) than on procurement of coffee. I am sure you have had your share of arguments/discussions about capitalism, socialism, compassionate conservatism etc. We all have our views. But I think the time has come for the most advanced nation in the world to provide free healthcare benefits to all its citizens. Added benefit - Reduction in expenses incurred by US corporations making them more competitive globally.