Jeff Prentice 12/12/24 Jeff Prentice 12/12/24

Japan, Economy, Birthrate, Older People in Power, Similarity to Italy Mindset, Japan Onsen, Proximity to Philippines, Possible Philippine Jumping Off Points

Japan’s economy is in a unique spot. The declining birth rate and aging population are serious challenges—they’re already seeing labor shortages and increasing pressure on social welfare systems. However, there are some optimistic aspects to their long-term prospects.

For one, Japan is heavily investing in automation and robotics, which could offset labor shortages. They’re pioneers in using AI and robotics in manufacturing, healthcare, and even elder care. Their advancements could make them global leaders in these industries.

They’re also focusing on green technology. Japan has ambitious plans for renewable energy, hydrogen tech, and sustainability. These could position them as key players in the global green transition.

Jeff Prentice 12/11/24 Jeff Prentice 12/11/24

Syria News, Foreign Aid, Iran, Turkey, Russia, Infrastructure, Polio

Syria is experiencing significant upheaval. In late November, a coalition of opposition forces launched a major offensive against government troops, rapidly capturing key cities including Aleppo, Hama, and Deir ez-Zor. By early December, they advanced into Damascus, toppling President Bashar al-Assad's regime and ending over five decades of Assad family rule. This marks a dramatic shift in the country's prolonged conflict, with international and regional implications as various factions realign power dynamics

Jeff Prentice 12/9/24 Jeff Prentice 12/9/24

Manila business opportunities sound studios

The demand for sound studios is influenced by sectors like music production, film, advertising, and gaming. The Philippines has a vibrant entertainment industry with a strong interest in local and international music, so there’s a steady need for sound recording, mixing, and mastering services. There’s also a growing market in digital media, where sound engineering plays a key role.

Jeff Prentice 12/9/24 Jeff Prentice 12/9/24

Food chain and backyard chickens

I have a question about Michael Pollan. He was discussing four main sources for food. One is industrial, one is industrial organic, the other is organic, and I believe the other is homegrown. Can you verify that and then perhaps expand on it?

Jeff Prentice 12/8/24 Jeff Prentice 12/8/24

Coenosia attenuata, Ed Yong, Neil Stevenson, Michael Pollan, Growing Carrots, Poaching Eggs

Coenosia attenuata is fascinating! It’s a type of fly often nicknamed the "killer fly." Native to the Mediterranean region, it’s a predator in both its larval and adult stages. The adults are especially cool—they hunt and eat other small flying insects like gnats, aphids, and fruit flies, even catching them mid-air. This makes them super beneficial for controlling pests in greenhouses and gardens.

Jeff Prentice 12/7/24 Jeff Prentice 12/7/24

Art, Exhibition,San Diego, Print Techniques, Shop Talk

If you were an artist working in San Diego, perhaps working in digital media or print, more of a fine artist, where would you be looking to exhibit and what kind of opportunities do you think there might be?

Jeff Prentice 12/7/24 Jeff Prentice 12/7/24

Architecture Dubai, convo

I'm looking at a screensaver of Dubai, and I'm wondering, how is it considered among architects and critics as far as architecture? Is it considered cutting edge and, you know, in overall good design, or does it look kind of tacky?