AIG puts bailout money to good use

It was. It wasn't just the execs; brokers from other companies were also present.

I guess they never heard of the Conference Call or WebEx.

I'm glad that my share of the bailout ($2300 or so depending on who you ask) is helping to purchase a pedi for an AIG employees wife. It warms my heart to give to the needy.

I'm going to reheat last night's Ramen and enjoy my meager feast knowing that those who are less fortunate than myself are doing well.

I am not a defender of executive pay or perq's. However, if this is a standard sales pep-rally, its part of the rewards system for the people and partner companies that bring the money in. If you want part of that action, figure out how be a top sales person. Bring a few million dollars into my life and I'll throw you one big berkleying party.

http://www.236.com/news/2008/10/09/how_many_rub_n_tugs_can_we_get_9433.php

I mean this sort of stuff is pretty standard these days..

An extra $850 for champaign and underware. Can they do anything right?

http://www.clusterstock.com/2008/10/a-grand-time-for-vips?Betterheadline

As it turns out, a declining market doesn't hurt strip clubs at all. Chelsea's V.I.P. club says business is up, and 80% of their patrons are Wall Street types. Things are going so well that VIP has introduced the most ridiculous thing ever: the $1000 lap dance.

Here's how the New York Times describes the Grand Dance:

In a moment of shrewd business, perhaps, Mr. Zherka and the club decided to introduce a premium product: the $1,000 lap dance package.

The package will buy a 20-minute lap dance, a bottle of Dom Pérignon and a private Champagne room. Not to mention, as Mr. Zherka did, they also “get to keep the girl’s G-strings.”

Of course, at the standard price $20 a dance, you could get a twenty-minute lap dance for around $150. So you're basically paying $850 for champagne and underwear.