Enrot



Yesterday, we learned that Enron founder Kenneth Lay died after experiencing a massive heart attack, just six weeks after experiencing a massive prosecution.

Here at Lomblog, we always show respect for the deceased. So let us be the one major news organization to highlight the positives of Mr. Lay's life and legacy.

Most retrospectives on this influential CEO have naturally focused on his central role in one of the country's largest corporate-abuse scandals. Others noted his longstanding friendship with President Bush. What most will overlook is the major contribution to charity he made with the millions he stole.

During his time at the top, Lay's largesse financed everything from construction of the baseball stadium Minute Maid Park (once named "Enron Field") to the Houston Holocaust Museum (once named "Enron Death Camp Exhibit"). There was even a Katy, Texas YMCA named in his honor - until it was decided that association with a convicted criminal and the Village People was too much stigma for one recreational center.

But more than what he gave us in life, there's the lesson he's given us with his death.

Once, like in 1987 or so, it was said that Greed was Good. But now we know the truth: Greed - along with stress brought on by the prospect of life in prison - Kills.

There's a reason why men like Lay burn out in the prime of life - 64 - while the likes of Warren Buffett continue to shine brightly well into their mid-seventies. It's because bilking old ladies out of their life savings puts a terrible strain on the arteries. If Lay had simply acted on the up-and-up, he might still be up-and-up.

So Mr. Lay's passing is just one more chapter that closes the books - cooked or otherwise - on the Age of Greed.

That's assuming he actually is dead.

During his corporate career, Lay proved to be one cagey hombré. It's possible that he has cheated Death too, by, say, shifting his vital signs to a part of his anatomy not yet examined by federal investigators.

But for now, let's listen to a MIDI rendition of "Everytime You Go Away" and think fond thoughts of Ken.

Adieu for today!