There are some days when you meet someone that restores your faith in mankind. Yesterday I met with Jim Keeton of Keeton Enterprises just north of Fort Collins.
Jim is one of those guys who has been trying to retire for a couple of years now, but when you talk to him you know he'll never retire for the simple fact that he just loves what he does. Oh, what does he do? He is one of those guys that is into aquatics. It might be as simple as helping that beautiful pond in your yard stay healthy, to keeping a lake healthy or as in my case helping me get off the ground with the shrimp/prawn business. He's been all over the world helping shrimp farmers keep their farms afloat, and has saved many of them when others went away for one reason or another.
But he didn't sit there and brag about his resume'. What he did do was sit and listen to what I needed, talked to me about some options, and we talked some more. In the long run he talked about how I can do what I am trying to accomplish and still save money. In addition he also talked about the possibility of investors once we got up and going. He felt that I had what it takes to do this. He made me feel like I belonged. It was more than just stroking my ego. The reason I say that is because although it is my name on the business, it could ultimately be his name behind that. If he was out to make money he would be trying to sell me the latest and greatest of everything. But instead of telling me that I needed a top of the line $2000.00 water test meter, he told me how I could do the same thing with about $700.00 of equipment. He also gave me ideas on how I could do several other things without sacrificing quality but still saving money, and I would be able to grow into the system. There was never any talk of trying to go bigger than I needed at this point. He knew my plan for growth in the future, so we talked about how this current system would fit into that.
But the bottom line was he was just a man who has been doing business long enough that he knows he doesn't have to throw a lot of fluff and B.S. your way just to get your business. If he wasn't sure of something he was genuine enough to say let me check on that.
Do you think I'll continue doing business out there? Ya, I think so too. A Colorado company that is located 30 minutes away, they stand behind what they do, and they want to see this succeed as well. But mostly because there is an owner of a business that I could just sit down and talk to like I had known him all of my life. After an hour there is a trust factor there I haven't been able to match.
Thanks Jim.
Scott
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Jobs and Benefits
So Premier Rocky Mountain Prawns does plan on hiring employees. We know that at first they will be part time. We say at first because we need to wait and see what our production rate is going to be. For the actual "farming" aspect it isn't overly labor intensive. However, fulfilling orders could turn into a nightmare without employees. Once we start to fulfill orders we could very well turn into a couple of full time employees and several part time employees with quite a few hours a week.
Now, with that said, according to the National Health Care act we won't be required to provide Health Care Insurance for our employees. WAIT!!! Although we won't be required to, that doesn't mean we won't want to. First of all, why won't we have to? We will be an employer with under 50 employees. We can't promise when it will happen, it is going to depend on our growth, but we have all intentions on providing this as soon as we can. If nothing else we will provide a % of what our employees are paying for their health care if their spouse isn't receiving health care through their employer. If we can't keep our employees healthy and give them a chance to get treated when they are sick, they won't do us any good.
But what else is a benefit? I truly believe that people only consider a benefit something huge like health care and life insurance. If you look at some of the most succesful companies today, they may allow their employees to bring their dogs to work. They may provide tickets to a local sports team.. or discounted tickets. Bring your kids to work and provide day care. Or how about this, even ask your employees what would be important to them outside of the norm. What a concept! Employee input.
I was driving the backway behind some businesses the other day. In short trying to escape the traffic in front of all the businesses. And there in back of one business that for some reason I just never thought I would see this was a group of probably a dozen or more employees being led in exercises. Doesn't seem like it is anything to big does it? But you know: studies have shown that just stretching can keep employees healthier and make them more productive. The leader had that look about him like he was an actual trainer. They were all in work out clothes, and who knows, they may have been getting ready to go on a power walk or a jog. The employer may have put an exercise program into effect where there was a bonus program. It's hard to tell.
A company in Japan was paying employees not to drive their car. You could ride your bike or car pool. The first month not that many employees took advantage of it. The 2nd month the parking lot was more than 1/2 empty. The amount paid was only about $15 a month. Not much, but if you add it up, that is 180.00 a year.
So when you talk about providing benefits, a company doesn't always have to just provide the big ones like health care or life insurance. Yes, those are definately big and important. But if your company is small enough to where they aren't required to provide those, there still isn't a reason that they can't do something special for their employees.
Now, I'm not a Republican, I'm not a Democrat. So this isn't a discussion about politics. This is just a discussion about how an employer can offer something that might matter and make working for them a little better. But ask the employees what would make them happy. Don't just assume.
Now, with that said, according to the National Health Care act we won't be required to provide Health Care Insurance for our employees. WAIT!!! Although we won't be required to, that doesn't mean we won't want to. First of all, why won't we have to? We will be an employer with under 50 employees. We can't promise when it will happen, it is going to depend on our growth, but we have all intentions on providing this as soon as we can. If nothing else we will provide a % of what our employees are paying for their health care if their spouse isn't receiving health care through their employer. If we can't keep our employees healthy and give them a chance to get treated when they are sick, they won't do us any good.
But what else is a benefit? I truly believe that people only consider a benefit something huge like health care and life insurance. If you look at some of the most succesful companies today, they may allow their employees to bring their dogs to work. They may provide tickets to a local sports team.. or discounted tickets. Bring your kids to work and provide day care. Or how about this, even ask your employees what would be important to them outside of the norm. What a concept! Employee input.
I was driving the backway behind some businesses the other day. In short trying to escape the traffic in front of all the businesses. And there in back of one business that for some reason I just never thought I would see this was a group of probably a dozen or more employees being led in exercises. Doesn't seem like it is anything to big does it? But you know: studies have shown that just stretching can keep employees healthier and make them more productive. The leader had that look about him like he was an actual trainer. They were all in work out clothes, and who knows, they may have been getting ready to go on a power walk or a jog. The employer may have put an exercise program into effect where there was a bonus program. It's hard to tell.
A company in Japan was paying employees not to drive their car. You could ride your bike or car pool. The first month not that many employees took advantage of it. The 2nd month the parking lot was more than 1/2 empty. The amount paid was only about $15 a month. Not much, but if you add it up, that is 180.00 a year.
So when you talk about providing benefits, a company doesn't always have to just provide the big ones like health care or life insurance. Yes, those are definately big and important. But if your company is small enough to where they aren't required to provide those, there still isn't a reason that they can't do something special for their employees.
Now, I'm not a Republican, I'm not a Democrat. So this isn't a discussion about politics. This is just a discussion about how an employer can offer something that might matter and make working for them a little better. But ask the employees what would make them happy. Don't just assume.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
The more you know...
I went to a web site that I know gives several great reading references for the growing/farming and all other kinds of things on freshwater prawn. I've been there several times and have looked at a lot of the articles. Last night I went there to look for the title of one specific book. The title isn't as important as the fact that it is a $400.00 book.
Now, it is probably one of the most highly recommended books there is on the subject of raising and just general knowledge of freshwater prawns there is. And heck, it was updated as recently as 2002. Prawns themselves haven't changed, but the knowledge of farming and raising them have come light years. So I am a little hesitant in purchasing that particular book.
However, I did cheat a little. I did write down the names of specific chapters from the book and then went on a search for the most current information on that particular subject. My dear friends: I am not again the author of this book receiving his fair due for the work he has done. The problem is that in this industry things change so quickly before someone could get a lot of information even published it will be out of date. From researching this business over the last 1+ years, around 2002 although there were changes happening they weren't coming as fast. Right now it's constant. Thus the reason for looking up current information.
Then there is that constant nagging question of who has the best information? Is University A's information and study more accurate than University B? Or did University C actually provide the best data? With that it is going to come down to which football team do you like best, or who did you study with or for whatever reason have you chosen to follow that individuals path?
Do I follow the path of the people who say freshwater prawn can't be raised in RAS tanks, or do I follow the path of the guys who say of course it can, we are doing it now!! What do you think? The guys who say it can't be done are traditionally the ones who tried it 15 years ago before the information and technology was there. The ones making it are the guys doing it now and are using current information and new technology. You probably get the idea.
But it all boils down to you have to constantly learn about your field no matter what it is. If you sit back and try to stay afloat with what you learned 10 years ago it isn't going to work. Farmers today need to stay ahead of the game with new ways of farming. There are new ways of doing things for bankers. My brother the Dentist goes to continuing education classes 2 times a year and looks forward to learning new procedures and ways of doing things 30 years later. You can't sit back and say I have always done it this way.
So keep learning, the more you know the more successful you are going to be. Even if it is different than what you may have done before.
Now, it is probably one of the most highly recommended books there is on the subject of raising and just general knowledge of freshwater prawns there is. And heck, it was updated as recently as 2002. Prawns themselves haven't changed, but the knowledge of farming and raising them have come light years. So I am a little hesitant in purchasing that particular book.
However, I did cheat a little. I did write down the names of specific chapters from the book and then went on a search for the most current information on that particular subject. My dear friends: I am not again the author of this book receiving his fair due for the work he has done. The problem is that in this industry things change so quickly before someone could get a lot of information even published it will be out of date. From researching this business over the last 1+ years, around 2002 although there were changes happening they weren't coming as fast. Right now it's constant. Thus the reason for looking up current information.
Then there is that constant nagging question of who has the best information? Is University A's information and study more accurate than University B? Or did University C actually provide the best data? With that it is going to come down to which football team do you like best, or who did you study with or for whatever reason have you chosen to follow that individuals path?
Do I follow the path of the people who say freshwater prawn can't be raised in RAS tanks, or do I follow the path of the guys who say of course it can, we are doing it now!! What do you think? The guys who say it can't be done are traditionally the ones who tried it 15 years ago before the information and technology was there. The ones making it are the guys doing it now and are using current information and new technology. You probably get the idea.
But it all boils down to you have to constantly learn about your field no matter what it is. If you sit back and try to stay afloat with what you learned 10 years ago it isn't going to work. Farmers today need to stay ahead of the game with new ways of farming. There are new ways of doing things for bankers. My brother the Dentist goes to continuing education classes 2 times a year and looks forward to learning new procedures and ways of doing things 30 years later. You can't sit back and say I have always done it this way.
So keep learning, the more you know the more successful you are going to be. Even if it is different than what you may have done before.
Monday, January 21, 2013
When do we care?
Oh the times when I should bite my tongue. But I don't.
There was the time when we found out that our children's toys were being painted with lead based toys and then were imported from overseas. With good reason we were up in arms. Seriously, who wants their children putting lead based paint in their mouths?
We have cried out with rage with the amount of imports that come in from Asia, and scream at the top of our lungs "BUY AMERICAN MADE". But somehow we turn around and watch lines of people sleep overnight at the nearest Apple Store to buy the next iPhone when they just bought the last newest iPhone last year at the same time.
Now, granted there are just some things that we will never see come back to the states in the manufacturing world because of the price. However, what we don't hear is that the U.S. is still the number one country when it comes to manufacturing. It is a political thing. You know neither party was going to bring that up during the election. It would look bad for one party and the other party would have spent to much time defending it. It wasn't a high priority item. However, the week after the election was over if you paid any attention to any news show you would have seen that we out produce any other nation when it comes to manufacturing.
So here is where I get on my high horse. It comes around to buying U.S. Made. With Premier Rocky Mountain Prawn we are willing to provide a fresh local sustainable produce that will not have any antibiotics, chemicals or hormones in it. People just look at me like "ya, what's your point". I'm not sure how much information I should give them. But would it matter? Over the years there have been several news reports on the national news talking about the conditions of the shrimping industry overseas and what is used in their processing and growing systems. But while we weren't willing to let our children put a toy in their mouth where there was even the slightest possibility of lead coming off the paint, we will watch Americans stuff their faces with shrimp that has been treated with things that we don't even allow the usage of here in the U.S. These shrimp are imported from overseas. Billions of pounds of it come through customs, and less than 1% is even tested.
The European Union has completely banned shrimp from the Asian countries and other places from coming into their country as they gave them a 4 year period to get their act together and provide clean shrimp. In four years they weren't able to do it. But the U.S. said send us everything you have. What is it that Europe happened to know and find that the U.S. is turning a blind eye to?
The U.S. says that aquaculture is the fastest growing segment in agriculture today. When I search grants that are available for aquaculturist they are primarily available to people researching and helping start farms in the countries that we are receiving shrimp from already. Not the U.S. farmer interested in providing fresh products.
We are not going to stop the importing of shrimp from overseas. But the fact that people don't care or want to know what is in the shrimp they are eating instead of shrimp that could be grown in their own backyard with no chemicals at all just astounds me.
Buy America is something that people like to say to make themselves feel better. The Farmer Market season is just ahead of us. If you have never been to one, go check them out. The freshness of the majority of the items will knock your socks off. There is a way you can buy American. Your supermarket for the most part has very little that is bought American. Support the local small farmer. They will appreciate it, and I bet it's going to be healthy.
There was the time when we found out that our children's toys were being painted with lead based toys and then were imported from overseas. With good reason we were up in arms. Seriously, who wants their children putting lead based paint in their mouths?
We have cried out with rage with the amount of imports that come in from Asia, and scream at the top of our lungs "BUY AMERICAN MADE". But somehow we turn around and watch lines of people sleep overnight at the nearest Apple Store to buy the next iPhone when they just bought the last newest iPhone last year at the same time.
Now, granted there are just some things that we will never see come back to the states in the manufacturing world because of the price. However, what we don't hear is that the U.S. is still the number one country when it comes to manufacturing. It is a political thing. You know neither party was going to bring that up during the election. It would look bad for one party and the other party would have spent to much time defending it. It wasn't a high priority item. However, the week after the election was over if you paid any attention to any news show you would have seen that we out produce any other nation when it comes to manufacturing.
So here is where I get on my high horse. It comes around to buying U.S. Made. With Premier Rocky Mountain Prawn we are willing to provide a fresh local sustainable produce that will not have any antibiotics, chemicals or hormones in it. People just look at me like "ya, what's your point". I'm not sure how much information I should give them. But would it matter? Over the years there have been several news reports on the national news talking about the conditions of the shrimping industry overseas and what is used in their processing and growing systems. But while we weren't willing to let our children put a toy in their mouth where there was even the slightest possibility of lead coming off the paint, we will watch Americans stuff their faces with shrimp that has been treated with things that we don't even allow the usage of here in the U.S. These shrimp are imported from overseas. Billions of pounds of it come through customs, and less than 1% is even tested.
The European Union has completely banned shrimp from the Asian countries and other places from coming into their country as they gave them a 4 year period to get their act together and provide clean shrimp. In four years they weren't able to do it. But the U.S. said send us everything you have. What is it that Europe happened to know and find that the U.S. is turning a blind eye to?
The U.S. says that aquaculture is the fastest growing segment in agriculture today. When I search grants that are available for aquaculturist they are primarily available to people researching and helping start farms in the countries that we are receiving shrimp from already. Not the U.S. farmer interested in providing fresh products.
We are not going to stop the importing of shrimp from overseas. But the fact that people don't care or want to know what is in the shrimp they are eating instead of shrimp that could be grown in their own backyard with no chemicals at all just astounds me.
Buy America is something that people like to say to make themselves feel better. The Farmer Market season is just ahead of us. If you have never been to one, go check them out. The freshness of the majority of the items will knock your socks off. There is a way you can buy American. Your supermarket for the most part has very little that is bought American. Support the local small farmer. They will appreciate it, and I bet it's going to be healthy.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Something a little fun
Fish Tanks... just a little different from my usual topics. We see them square, rectangle and occassionally round. But I thought I would throw this in so you can see a few different options if you just want something that makes a statement:
Many people buy fish aquariums as it helps them relax and some simply because
they love fish. But whatever the reason, who wants to buy fish must first
purchase an aquarium or fishbowl. But what type? Here are 10 unusual and unique
fish tank aquariums for you to consider but remember
you must always choose a suitable aquarium for the fish you are planning on
getting.
Just looking at this fish tank makes me uncomfortable, however it is resting on its counter-balanced weight so there’s probably nothing to worry about. Made from premium glass, handblown and slumped by a master glassblower each tank has it’s own unique form and individual characteristics. Available for £295.
This one is a planter and a fish tank joined together. The fish turn their eaten bait remnants into nutrients for the plant, while the water fed to the plant is filtered as it passes though and becomes clean for the fish. It is a totally natural and lovely system.
This highly entertaining accessory allows you to enjoy an aquarium or zen garden within your restroom. The top glass rises in case you need to rearrange the decor and both sides offer a large, circular entry for fish feeding.
This fish tank coffee table is a crowd pleaser. Its base is a fully functional aquarium, and due to the beveled glass, nothing you place on the table will disturb the fish. There is a two inch opening on the surface where feeding occurs and the entire glass top is easily lifted when it is time to add fish or redecorate.
This is a guy who is truly a fan of fish and aquariums. The owner made this awesome pipeline fish tank passes over the heads of customers in his cafe. You cat take a seat, relax and watch fish swims through the pipes. It is very unusual but you must give him a mark for creativity.
If you do not have enough room in your new office to put an aquarium, just integrate an Aquarium into your desk.
Many people have old tellies lying around their homes, too good to throw out and yet impossible to sell. So what to do with them? Here is an idea turn it into a unique aquarium.
This sofa features aquariums on both its sides under the arm rests. This is ideal for those who love unusual aquariums and the price tag, USD$12,000. Ouch!
This very innovative and rare aquarium is offered in three colors. The tables are produced in cherry, black or carbon fiber and they conceal the rare filtration and lighting components. Fish swim freely throughout the entire aquarium. Designed for tropical freshwater fish.
Poor Little Fish is an unusual approach to saving water. When using this basin, users are prompted into thinking about consumption when the water level in the fishbowl goes down (but does not actually drain out). There are two separate pipelines, so the water refills the fishbowl once the tap is turned off. Don’t worry though, the water from the tap is actually pure and not directly from the fish bowl. After all who would want to wash with fish water?
Source: Bored Panda
10 Unusual And Unique Fish Tanks Aquariums
1. Balancing Fishbowl
Just looking at this fish tank makes me uncomfortable, however it is resting on its counter-balanced weight so there’s probably nothing to worry about. Made from premium glass, handblown and slumped by a master glassblower each tank has it’s own unique form and individual characteristics. Available for £295.
2. One Pot, Two Lives
This one is a planter and a fish tank joined together. The fish turn their eaten bait remnants into nutrients for the plant, while the water fed to the plant is filtered as it passes though and becomes clean for the fish. It is a totally natural and lovely system.
3. Aquarium Sink
This highly entertaining accessory allows you to enjoy an aquarium or zen garden within your restroom. The top glass rises in case you need to rearrange the decor and both sides offer a large, circular entry for fish feeding.
4. Fish Tank Coffee Table
This fish tank coffee table is a crowd pleaser. Its base is a fully functional aquarium, and due to the beveled glass, nothing you place on the table will disturb the fish. There is a two inch opening on the surface where feeding occurs and the entire glass top is easily lifted when it is time to add fish or redecorate.
5. Pipeline Fish Tank
This is a guy who is truly a fan of fish and aquariums. The owner made this awesome pipeline fish tank passes over the heads of customers in his cafe. You cat take a seat, relax and watch fish swims through the pipes. It is very unusual but you must give him a mark for creativity.
6. Aquarium Office Table
If you do not have enough room in your new office to put an aquarium, just integrate an Aquarium into your desk.
7. Old TV Aquarium
Many people have old tellies lying around their homes, too good to throw out and yet impossible to sell. So what to do with them? Here is an idea turn it into a unique aquarium.
8. Aquarium Sofa
This sofa features aquariums on both its sides under the arm rests. This is ideal for those who love unusual aquariums and the price tag, USD$12,000. Ouch!
9. Labyrinth Aquarium
This very innovative and rare aquarium is offered in three colors. The tables are produced in cherry, black or carbon fiber and they conceal the rare filtration and lighting components. Fish swim freely throughout the entire aquarium. Designed for tropical freshwater fish.
10. Poor Little Fish
Poor Little Fish is an unusual approach to saving water. When using this basin, users are prompted into thinking about consumption when the water level in the fishbowl goes down (but does not actually drain out). There are two separate pipelines, so the water refills the fishbowl once the tap is turned off. Don’t worry though, the water from the tap is actually pure and not directly from the fish bowl. After all who would want to wash with fish water?
Source: Bored Panda
Saturday, January 12, 2013
The Cost of Business
I suppose I should state up front that I am not naive and I have always been going into this venture eyes wide open. Shopping around for the best deals here and there. I know that the cost of business is high.
Now that we are to the point of narrowing down our location I know that the cost of water is going to be our main cost concern. So with each possible location I have been contacting the local water company to find out the cost of water on the commercial side. It has been an eye opener. I knew there would be a difference but it is amazing how 3 cities right next to each other could be so different. I won't name which city is which, but let me give you a break down:
City 1) $20,000 for up to 240,000 gallons a year. Any $$ left over from what isn't used is carried over to the following year. We are estimating that the first year since we need to fill our tanks that we would probably have about a 40,000 gallon year. After that, if we didn't have any expansion we would have the usage of maybe a 2 person household. So this is a pretty good deal even though the $20,000 upfront sounds outrageous. Take into account the unused portion carries over.
City 2) If in the City Limits the cost is $1.76 per 1000 gallons, and outside of the city limits is $2.16 per 1000 gallons. This is still a pretty good deal. We know our initial draw will be around 35,000 gallons. Then after that, again it will be around what a 2 person household would be, more than likely less. So not to bad.
City 3) $3.76 per gallon. Straight up. Our initial draw just to fill our tanks would be close to $100,000. Let it be known that this particular city has more breweries in it than any other city in the state. I have a hard time believing that somehow the breweries aren't getting a break on their water somehow. But I could be wrong.
Now, WHEN we start growing and our sales start going through the roof, will city 3 not care one way or another that they are not getting the tax dollars for the fact that we weren't willing to pay the amount to fill our tanks that we could buy 50 acres of land for? I would doubt it. For the simple reason that they won't know.
To those of us wanting to make our business make it in a particular location, but things like this just don't make it possible it's bothersome. But at the same time we are willing to make ourselves at home in a city that is willing to make us welcome.
So when you are starting your business make sure you are checking out everything that is going to concern your business. You might be surprised what you will find.
Have a great weekend.
Scott
Now that we are to the point of narrowing down our location I know that the cost of water is going to be our main cost concern. So with each possible location I have been contacting the local water company to find out the cost of water on the commercial side. It has been an eye opener. I knew there would be a difference but it is amazing how 3 cities right next to each other could be so different. I won't name which city is which, but let me give you a break down:
City 1) $20,000 for up to 240,000 gallons a year. Any $$ left over from what isn't used is carried over to the following year. We are estimating that the first year since we need to fill our tanks that we would probably have about a 40,000 gallon year. After that, if we didn't have any expansion we would have the usage of maybe a 2 person household. So this is a pretty good deal even though the $20,000 upfront sounds outrageous. Take into account the unused portion carries over.
City 2) If in the City Limits the cost is $1.76 per 1000 gallons, and outside of the city limits is $2.16 per 1000 gallons. This is still a pretty good deal. We know our initial draw will be around 35,000 gallons. Then after that, again it will be around what a 2 person household would be, more than likely less. So not to bad.
City 3) $3.76 per gallon. Straight up. Our initial draw just to fill our tanks would be close to $100,000. Let it be known that this particular city has more breweries in it than any other city in the state. I have a hard time believing that somehow the breweries aren't getting a break on their water somehow. But I could be wrong.
Now, WHEN we start growing and our sales start going through the roof, will city 3 not care one way or another that they are not getting the tax dollars for the fact that we weren't willing to pay the amount to fill our tanks that we could buy 50 acres of land for? I would doubt it. For the simple reason that they won't know.
To those of us wanting to make our business make it in a particular location, but things like this just don't make it possible it's bothersome. But at the same time we are willing to make ourselves at home in a city that is willing to make us welcome.
So when you are starting your business make sure you are checking out everything that is going to concern your business. You might be surprised what you will find.
Have a great weekend.
Scott
Monday, January 7, 2013
Hard not to get excited sometimes
Wow.... Roller coaster rides. Ask my kids and they will tell you not only do I not like them, but I can't even watch shows about them on t.v. There is something about that feeling of my stomach being at point A and my body being at point B and why they aren't at the same place. Even watching people on t.v. gives me that blah feeling.
Then again, when I was in the military and we were in the back of a helicopter it would make a sudden dip towards the ground. It was the same principle but because of the focus that was there it never bothered me. As a matter of fact it got the adrenalin rushing. Ok there was that time when the crew chief had me stand up and hold onto a hose that was leaking hydraulic fluid. That was a little unnerving. Holding onto a leak and taking that large dip to the ground at the same time. We weren't quite sure if the dip was supposed to be happening since we were over the ocean. Afterwards he just said "Doc, your magic hands save lives, I figured you could cure the chopper". Thanks sarge...
Where am I going with this? Well when you are doing something like creating a business it is a huge roller coaster ride. There are ups and downs. You slowly climb those hills and it feels great because you know you are getting there, and then you crash, rather that down hill section just drops you. Your heart is up at the top (point A) and your body is at the bottom (point B) and you wonder when they are going to meet up again. But when you realize that what you thought was getting ready to be the big climax just dropped out from beneath you, you sit there for a second, get all your parts and pieces back together again and start to climb that hill again. Eventually you hit the top of the hill, and inside there is this big death chilling scream which you later realize is you falling to the bottom again. And this just constantly repeats itself.
The last couple of days I have gone from that roller coaster ride to being back inside that Marine Helicopter. One sailor inside of a chopper with his platoon of Marines. Everyone of those Marines has his back and they aren't going to let anything happen to him. Things are flying fast at this point. But now when there is a drop it isn't as devastating I'm to the point where I know we are finally getting down to the end, where that chopper is going to land and the mission will be on. The things that previously just dropped my to the bottom now just have my stomach turn just a little, but I know that I'm still in the air. My focus is steady, it is able to see the goal. That pilot is the SBA, the co-pilot has come in the form of people I didn't even know two months ago. They keep in touch with me and give me unsolicited support. And of course, there is that one crew chief that still has me stand up and grab that hydraulic hose. I swear he does that just to get a rise out of me. Trust me, I still have a pulse even if it doesn't look like it.
So in the past I started holding back that excitement for fear I was in line for a roller coaster ride. Not now. I'm back on that Chinook and am waiting to land with those Marines in front of me.
Scott
Then again, when I was in the military and we were in the back of a helicopter it would make a sudden dip towards the ground. It was the same principle but because of the focus that was there it never bothered me. As a matter of fact it got the adrenalin rushing. Ok there was that time when the crew chief had me stand up and hold onto a hose that was leaking hydraulic fluid. That was a little unnerving. Holding onto a leak and taking that large dip to the ground at the same time. We weren't quite sure if the dip was supposed to be happening since we were over the ocean. Afterwards he just said "Doc, your magic hands save lives, I figured you could cure the chopper". Thanks sarge...
Where am I going with this? Well when you are doing something like creating a business it is a huge roller coaster ride. There are ups and downs. You slowly climb those hills and it feels great because you know you are getting there, and then you crash, rather that down hill section just drops you. Your heart is up at the top (point A) and your body is at the bottom (point B) and you wonder when they are going to meet up again. But when you realize that what you thought was getting ready to be the big climax just dropped out from beneath you, you sit there for a second, get all your parts and pieces back together again and start to climb that hill again. Eventually you hit the top of the hill, and inside there is this big death chilling scream which you later realize is you falling to the bottom again. And this just constantly repeats itself.
The last couple of days I have gone from that roller coaster ride to being back inside that Marine Helicopter. One sailor inside of a chopper with his platoon of Marines. Everyone of those Marines has his back and they aren't going to let anything happen to him. Things are flying fast at this point. But now when there is a drop it isn't as devastating I'm to the point where I know we are finally getting down to the end, where that chopper is going to land and the mission will be on. The things that previously just dropped my to the bottom now just have my stomach turn just a little, but I know that I'm still in the air. My focus is steady, it is able to see the goal. That pilot is the SBA, the co-pilot has come in the form of people I didn't even know two months ago. They keep in touch with me and give me unsolicited support. And of course, there is that one crew chief that still has me stand up and grab that hydraulic hose. I swear he does that just to get a rise out of me. Trust me, I still have a pulse even if it doesn't look like it.
So in the past I started holding back that excitement for fear I was in line for a roller coaster ride. Not now. I'm back on that Chinook and am waiting to land with those Marines in front of me.
Scott
Thursday, January 3, 2013
And another farm
People still think it is odd that I want to open a prawn farm here in Colorado. It isn't a matter of being the first one to do it. It is more a matter of being pro-active. That is another thing people don't quite understand. How can you be pro-active with something like this? Well, how many times have you seen something come out on the market and think to yourself "I have thought about doing something like that so many times"? Or a similar thought?
In all of my research I have realized that this isn't a passing fad. This is an industry that once stayed put in the southeastern United States. (not counting overseas). Now, I'm not just throwing names of states out here. When I first started looking into this business, here is where there were similar types of shrimp/prawn farms. Texas, Florida, New Hampshire and Nevada.
It is now about 8 months later, and here are the states that I know of that now have Recirculating Systems. Texas, Florida, New Hampshire, Nevada, Ohio, Iowa, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, New Mexico, North Carolina. Today an article came out that a new RAS farm just recently opened in Massachusetts.
So why am I being pro-active? I started to look about 3-5 years down the line and I can tell you with certainty that Colorado will be one of the next states to have a shrimp/prawn facility. We already have Tilapia farms, trout farms and more. The aquaculture system in our state is close to a $15 million industry annually. So yes, there is money to be made. What I really don't want to have happen is to have someone who didn't grow up in Colorado to move in and say they understand what is going on here.
So with my Community Funded page, http://communityfunded.com/projects/premierscott/for-the-health-of-us-all/ and I do grovel for help getting up and going, it's not a ploy, it's not because I'm trying to scam anyone. It's an honest effort to get a business that will provide jobs for Colorado-ans A chance to provide a community garden that will help our neighbors that might be able to use the extra nutrition for their kids. All that warm fuzzy stuff.
But it is about being pro-active. The RAS facilities are getting closer. It isn't a passing fad. I know a lot of people feel that way. Think about what you would like to see here. Imported frozen goods at the store are easy. This takes a little extra work. I'm willing to put in the work for you and your family.
Scott
In all of my research I have realized that this isn't a passing fad. This is an industry that once stayed put in the southeastern United States. (not counting overseas). Now, I'm not just throwing names of states out here. When I first started looking into this business, here is where there were similar types of shrimp/prawn farms. Texas, Florida, New Hampshire and Nevada.
It is now about 8 months later, and here are the states that I know of that now have Recirculating Systems. Texas, Florida, New Hampshire, Nevada, Ohio, Iowa, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, New Mexico, North Carolina. Today an article came out that a new RAS farm just recently opened in Massachusetts.
So why am I being pro-active? I started to look about 3-5 years down the line and I can tell you with certainty that Colorado will be one of the next states to have a shrimp/prawn facility. We already have Tilapia farms, trout farms and more. The aquaculture system in our state is close to a $15 million industry annually. So yes, there is money to be made. What I really don't want to have happen is to have someone who didn't grow up in Colorado to move in and say they understand what is going on here.
So with my Community Funded page, http://communityfunded.com/projects/premierscott/for-the-health-of-us-all/ and I do grovel for help getting up and going, it's not a ploy, it's not because I'm trying to scam anyone. It's an honest effort to get a business that will provide jobs for Colorado-ans A chance to provide a community garden that will help our neighbors that might be able to use the extra nutrition for their kids. All that warm fuzzy stuff.
But it is about being pro-active. The RAS facilities are getting closer. It isn't a passing fad. I know a lot of people feel that way. Think about what you would like to see here. Imported frozen goods at the store are easy. This takes a little extra work. I'm willing to put in the work for you and your family.
Scott
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
U.S. Shrimpers requesting subsidies
Farmers get subsidies.... well, it just seems like everyone gets subsidies doesn't it. Not it is the shrimper on the coasts right? Now, I'm not saying that all industries deserve or should get them, but here is the basic story on what our shrimp fleets go through. They have about a 4-5 month shrimping season. Overseas they are primarily farming everything in shrimp and prawn. (ok, this ultimately effects PRMP as well, so we are interested). With an annual world wide sales of over $110 Billion dollars in shrimp, the U.S. is producing about $1.6 Billion. I want to provide you with the following information and see if the U.S. shrimp fleets are in their right to be a little angry, and should probably be filing suit with the WTO. Or our government should:
Coalition of Gulf Shrimp Industries Fact Sheet on Shrimp Subsidy Petitions
• As shrimp imports drove down prices in 2012, the USA shrimp industry began to suffer operating losses.
• The petitions document more than $13.5 billion in government subsidies to the aquaculture and seafood processing industries in these countries, with the shrimp industry as the primary recipient.
• The petitions detail over one hundred programs benefiting shrimp producers in the seven countries, including direct government grants and equity infusions, cheap loans, debt forgiveness, tax breaks, the direct provision of land, shrimp feed, and other key inputs, as well as numerous export subsidies.
• The Government of Thailand intervenes in the market to buy shrimp from farmers and provide that shrimp to processors at artificially low prices.
• The Indian government provides subsidies to reduce shrimp processors’ ocean freight costs, with an added subsidy specifically for exports to the USA.
• In China, the government is providing financing to build what it hopes will be the world’s largest shrimp processing and export platform.
• The Malaysian government is investing tens of millions of dollars to build vertically integrated shrimp farms and processing facilities to target world export markets.
nough said?
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