Google's first CEO is back, amid doubts

Google's first CEO is back, amid doubts

Google Inc. cofounder Larry Page is known for his vision, passion, and intelligence. Yet there is concern that his other known traits - aloofness, a rebellious streak, and an affinity for pursuing wacky ideas - might lead the company astray. Page takes over as chief executive officer Monday as fast-rising rivals and tougher regulators threaten Google's growth.
Investors used to Google's consistency in exceeding financial targets worry that new leadership will bring more emphasis on long-term projects that take years to pay off. And many people are not sure he has enough management skills to steer the Internet's most powerful company.
Page already has learned that smarts alone won't make him a great leader. Although Page impressed Google's early investors with his ingenuity, they still insisted that he step down in 2001 as Google's first CEO. He turned over the job to Eric Schmidt, who began working in Silicon Valley in the early 1980s while Page was still in grammar school.
Page's admirers say that at 38, he is more mature and less apt to be chronically late to meetings or tune out of conversations that do not stimulate his intellect - habits he fell into during his first stint as CEO.
"There are parts of being CEO that don't fit Larry's personality," said Craig Silverstein, the first employee Page and Google's cofounder, Sergey Brin, hired when they started the company in 1998. "You wear a lot of different hats when you're CEO. Some of them are very interesting to Larry and some of them, presumably, are less interesting."
True to his taciturn form, Page hasn't said much publicly since Google announced in January that he would replace Schmidt as CEO. Google said Page wasn't available for an interview.
Page, though, has left little doubt about his top priority: to dissolve the bureaucracy and complacency that accompanied Google's rapid transformation into a 21st-century empire. It is expected to end the year with more than 30,000 employees and $35 billion in annual revenue.
In Page's mind, Google needs to return to thinking and acting like a feisty start-up. Rising Internet stars such as Facebook, Twitter, and Groupon are developing products that could challenge Google and make its dominance of Internet search less lucrative.

Lowe's to Donate $1 Million to Red Cross Relief Efforts in Japan

Lowe's to Donate $1 Million to Red Cross Relief Efforts in Japan

(NYSE: LOW) announced today the company will donate $1 million to support the Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami relief effort that is assisting victims in Japan. Lowes.com and Lowe's Canada website, Lowes.ca, will also serve as donation points for customers who wish to contribute to the American Red Cross and Canadian Red Cross, making it convenient for people who want to join Lowe's in making a difference.

"We are truly grateful for Lowe's generosity to help those affected by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan," said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the American Red Cross. "Lowe's support is enabling the Red Cross to provide critical assistance and essential relief items in this time of urgent need." The Red Cross already has committed $10 million to assist the people of Japan.

Local volunteers are handing out relief items, including more than 65,000 blankets. More than 100 medical teams, made up of more than 700 people, are providing assistance in the most affected areas through mobile medical clinics.