I would be the most unlikely candidate to be writing something like this. To an extent. As I am the king of redundant purchases. How many of the same things does one need? This somewhat hoarding behavior can be justified in the terms of interest, hobby or collector.
I know that I get on kicks. Then ending up having way too much of something that one or two of would be quite adequate. Then you are like "which one of these things that are essentially the same do I use"? Creating stress and a realization of spending money that was not necessary.
Using what you have can be applied to your kitchen too. How many times have you bought something that you have three of in the pantry.
forgetting what was needed (make a list). That is why it is a good idea to inventory staples. Maybe not buy too far ahead.
That being said by someone who has twenty bicycle tires in stock! It is enjoyable to get new things. The thrill of opening up new packages with the latest must have. Again I am the pot calling the kettle black in this respect. As we justify acquisitions by taking them from a want to a need.
If you have a hobby or collection that you enjoy it is justified as something that gives you pleasure and hopefully benefits. Not putting yourself in financial panic, disturbing others or a criminal act I suppose it is OK.
Gee, I think I need another kitchen knife and skillet. You know I should have got the enameled cast iron Dutch oven!
Saturday, December 10, 2016
Tuesday, December 6, 2016
$15 An Hour Is $31200 A Year
The coveted $15 an hour is $31200 a year. Still well below the "national average". Unfortunately that national average takes in to account all the billionaires and millionaires. Which drives that average up greatly. I do not know how retirees and people on entitlements figure in this formula.
The national average is about $25 to get to around the $50000 number. How many people do you know making $25 an hour at a job? A quick scan on the local Craig's List seems to show most jobs starting at $8 OR $9 an hour. About half of the $15.
Now the tricky thing is a lot of the the people on the campaign for the $15 an hour are part time workers that receive entitlements and cannot make over a certain amount or they lose the benefits. So if you can only work 10 or 15 hours a week to not exceed the limit this will drop down to 5 or 7 hours a week. Or given the choice of working more hours to get to the $31200 a year and giving up entitlements what do you think the most popular decision would be? Bust your butt and make more or drop down to 5 hours a week, pay no taxes and live the same as someone making $15 an hour. DA!
The national average is about $25 to get to around the $50000 number. How many people do you know making $25 an hour at a job? A quick scan on the local Craig's List seems to show most jobs starting at $8 OR $9 an hour. About half of the $15.
Now the tricky thing is a lot of the the people on the campaign for the $15 an hour are part time workers that receive entitlements and cannot make over a certain amount or they lose the benefits. So if you can only work 10 or 15 hours a week to not exceed the limit this will drop down to 5 or 7 hours a week. Or given the choice of working more hours to get to the $31200 a year and giving up entitlements what do you think the most popular decision would be? Bust your butt and make more or drop down to 5 hours a week, pay no taxes and live the same as someone making $15 an hour. DA!
Monday, December 5, 2016
Would Everything You Own Be Worth $500 At An Auction?
I think we would all be surprised that everything you have would not really be worth much. Not saying that everything that we possess is worthless. As they perform functions for us. But in the real world not much value. Which is why such "deals" can be found at thrift stores and yard sales.
All of your worldly possessions are not worth a grand! The things that mean the world to you are worth nothing. Or next to it. At least they perform a function or value to you. Your wardrobe might not even pass for sale at Goodwill. You would have to pay someone to haul off your furniture. The pawn shop wouldn't lend you $20 for your TV. Sad but true.
The nice thing about this is that thieves probably would try to steal your things. Kind of like robbing a coal train. Again, don't feel bad about it. That $3000 TV your brother in law bought won't bring but a couple of hundred at the pawn shop too.
All of your worldly possessions are not worth a grand! The things that mean the world to you are worth nothing. Or next to it. At least they perform a function or value to you. Your wardrobe might not even pass for sale at Goodwill. You would have to pay someone to haul off your furniture. The pawn shop wouldn't lend you $20 for your TV. Sad but true.
The nice thing about this is that thieves probably would try to steal your things. Kind of like robbing a coal train. Again, don't feel bad about it. That $3000 TV your brother in law bought won't bring but a couple of hundred at the pawn shop too.
Spending Time And Not Money In A Day Without Spending
Ever thought about going a whole day without spend money? I mean nothing. Not running out for gas, milk, bread, smokes, eggs or anything. You have to use what you have on hand. Stretch out consumables for the day. You can however use your utilities as they are already paid for.
This doesn't sound like that big of a deal to some and beyond the pale for others. As some folks run out daily or even multiple times daily to get this and that. I mean not ordering anything online or over the phone. No new apps nothing. Out of soda, too bad.
A day of not spending is a good off day project. Although you can do it on a work day as well. You just have to pack your lunch! You can take an automobile to work as long as you do not need gas. Not so good for you that ride around on an empty tank. An exception can be fare if you use public transportation to get to your avocation or primary employment. For our purposes we will consider this a utility.
If this project is executed on an off day all the better. What better time to do those little things that have been on the back burner and just not done. Clean your living space. Most likely you have everything on hand to do so. Straighten out your closets. Wash the windows. Trim the outside plants. Once started it will snowball into many things.
This doesn't mean having to stay inside as one could take a walk, bike ride, go fishing, clean your car or just hang out. A lesson can be learned from older people that you see doing things that do not cost money. For the most part they can entertain themselves without spending. Although the Great Depression era folks are passing a lesson from them can be learned. As generations after became worst with money, me as well. I find that anytime I leave the house I spend money on something. And now days $5 won't get much so it's like $20.
After your walk come in and reconcile your check book. Have you done that lately. Put on some old movie. Run a scan and defragment your computer. Send an email to someone. Read a book or magazine. Surf the Internet. Learn a new skill. Sharpen up the kitchen knives. Scan and straightenn up those kitchen cupboards. Especially as you will have to use what you have on hand to prepare a meal. Find that can of soup that expired in 2008. And of course don't use it!
A day of not spending does not have to be horrible. And may find that it goes by very quickly. As being busy makes time pass. Piece together a nice meal. Feel like a job well done. Think how you saved and do it a couple times a month.
I know a lot of people do not have that low threshold of excitement as I do. I just wish that I would have applied this mentality sooner. That retirement at 62 would have been a breeze. Less clutter. Maybe healthier.
I do not know. But I would have had a better handle on it. What about all those good time memories? Well what about those bad time memories.
This doesn't sound like that big of a deal to some and beyond the pale for others. As some folks run out daily or even multiple times daily to get this and that. I mean not ordering anything online or over the phone. No new apps nothing. Out of soda, too bad.
A day of not spending is a good off day project. Although you can do it on a work day as well. You just have to pack your lunch! You can take an automobile to work as long as you do not need gas. Not so good for you that ride around on an empty tank. An exception can be fare if you use public transportation to get to your avocation or primary employment. For our purposes we will consider this a utility.
If this project is executed on an off day all the better. What better time to do those little things that have been on the back burner and just not done. Clean your living space. Most likely you have everything on hand to do so. Straighten out your closets. Wash the windows. Trim the outside plants. Once started it will snowball into many things.
This doesn't mean having to stay inside as one could take a walk, bike ride, go fishing, clean your car or just hang out. A lesson can be learned from older people that you see doing things that do not cost money. For the most part they can entertain themselves without spending. Although the Great Depression era folks are passing a lesson from them can be learned. As generations after became worst with money, me as well. I find that anytime I leave the house I spend money on something. And now days $5 won't get much so it's like $20.
After your walk come in and reconcile your check book. Have you done that lately. Put on some old movie. Run a scan and defragment your computer. Send an email to someone. Read a book or magazine. Surf the Internet. Learn a new skill. Sharpen up the kitchen knives. Scan and straightenn up those kitchen cupboards. Especially as you will have to use what you have on hand to prepare a meal. Find that can of soup that expired in 2008. And of course don't use it!
A day of not spending does not have to be horrible. And may find that it goes by very quickly. As being busy makes time pass. Piece together a nice meal. Feel like a job well done. Think how you saved and do it a couple times a month.
I know a lot of people do not have that low threshold of excitement as I do. I just wish that I would have applied this mentality sooner. That retirement at 62 would have been a breeze. Less clutter. Maybe healthier.
I do not know. But I would have had a better handle on it. What about all those good time memories? Well what about those bad time memories.
Saturday, December 3, 2016
Do Most People Notice The Tiny Details You Think Mean Something?
I can go a lot of directions with this tittle. We could go to brand consciousness. We could go to personal hygiene. We could go to habits and mannerism's. Style and demeanor. That is confusing enough to start I guess.
Brands have their merit though. They were recognized for the quality and innovation. Making the product desirable and pricey Here is an example of one of my brand conscious flops. A few years ago I put some Michelin tires on my commuter bicycle. I thought people would really think that I am cool. But in reality people only seen what was. A fifty something old man riding a forty yea r old bicycle to work because I did not have a car or license. Not for exercise, green planet or saving money. Let alone that it had Michelin tires. So clothing, automobiles, or any other product you can think of has relevance. To some and not others. Brands will generally mean a lot to a small group who dwell on such things and nothing to the vast majority. Next time you get robbed at gunpoint are you going to see if it is a Colt, Smith and Wesson or Beretta? Probably not. Although it would be important to some folks.
How about personal hygiene? Am I sharp as could be or stink? Most people will not look if you are dressed to the nines. But will notice if you stink. Somewhere in the middle will work well. Of course you could be dressed well and still stink. I have cut my own hair (what's left) for eight years. I cam to the conclusion that I am still going to be an ugly old man whether I pay $25 for someone to cut it or do it myself. Less than two haircuts will get you up and going with the tools you need. Do you use the most expensive perfume or after shave? Or just a low priced non offensive pleasant sent. Does your hair and skin look clean? Do you smell bad or not at all?
Let's look at style and demeanor. Do you stand out in a crowd or sort of blend right in? Is your style mainstream or the latest and greatest? You could however dress way old like a leisure suit and a Members Only jacket with a white belt and shoes. Or with the very last word in fashion.
Your demeanor also is a detail. You stand out or blend in basically. A person can be loud and obnoxious. Maybe over nice. Or blend in.
Everybody is wired different. As we all know.
Brands have their merit though. They were recognized for the quality and innovation. Making the product desirable and pricey Here is an example of one of my brand conscious flops. A few years ago I put some Michelin tires on my commuter bicycle. I thought people would really think that I am cool. But in reality people only seen what was. A fifty something old man riding a forty yea r old bicycle to work because I did not have a car or license. Not for exercise, green planet or saving money. Let alone that it had Michelin tires. So clothing, automobiles, or any other product you can think of has relevance. To some and not others. Brands will generally mean a lot to a small group who dwell on such things and nothing to the vast majority. Next time you get robbed at gunpoint are you going to see if it is a Colt, Smith and Wesson or Beretta? Probably not. Although it would be important to some folks.
How about personal hygiene? Am I sharp as could be or stink? Most people will not look if you are dressed to the nines. But will notice if you stink. Somewhere in the middle will work well. Of course you could be dressed well and still stink. I have cut my own hair (what's left) for eight years. I cam to the conclusion that I am still going to be an ugly old man whether I pay $25 for someone to cut it or do it myself. Less than two haircuts will get you up and going with the tools you need. Do you use the most expensive perfume or after shave? Or just a low priced non offensive pleasant sent. Does your hair and skin look clean? Do you smell bad or not at all?
Let's look at style and demeanor. Do you stand out in a crowd or sort of blend right in? Is your style mainstream or the latest and greatest? You could however dress way old like a leisure suit and a Members Only jacket with a white belt and shoes. Or with the very last word in fashion.
Your demeanor also is a detail. You stand out or blend in basically. A person can be loud and obnoxious. Maybe over nice. Or blend in.
Everybody is wired different. As we all know.
Saturday, November 19, 2016
Shaving With A Double Edge Razor
Shaving can be regarded as a thing of the past. Or at least what used to be considered shaving. I consider most people dressing shabby at best at this juncture.
If you are into hygiene and like to look presentable consider using a double edged safety razor.
Most of us have someone in the family that have one laying around. A shaver I mean. I consider Gillette the best. Readily found on ebay. King Gillette was the inventor of the DE safety razor. They are the best.
Several companies are making DE safety razors as we speak. They are all knock offs of the Gillette design.
Like everything else everyone is taking it to the extreme. But a regular old Gillette with Barbasol will shave you nice.
If you are into hygiene and like to look presentable consider using a double edged safety razor.
Most of us have someone in the family that have one laying around. A shaver I mean. I consider Gillette the best. Readily found on ebay. King Gillette was the inventor of the DE safety razor. They are the best.
Several companies are making DE safety razors as we speak. They are all knock offs of the Gillette design.
Like everything else everyone is taking it to the extreme. But a regular old Gillette with Barbasol will shave you nice.
Baking Banana Bread For The Holidays
The Holidays are here again. Everyone has their own agenda. Whether voluntarily or forced. We are herded like sheep into doing things you know.
Gathering and food are paramount during this season. No sense in fighting it. It will not go away and you will only come across as a jerk (while keeping that it is an economic thing in your mind). So let's jump in!
I have dabbled in baking banana bread. I have had a lot of homemade banana bread and thought that it was amazing that someone could produce such a treat at home on their own.
I am not going to go through the recipe as there are many available on the internet.
Make a splash with your family, friends and co workers.
Gathering and food are paramount during this season. No sense in fighting it. It will not go away and you will only come across as a jerk (while keeping that it is an economic thing in your mind). So let's jump in!
I have dabbled in baking banana bread. I have had a lot of homemade banana bread and thought that it was amazing that someone could produce such a treat at home on their own.
I am not going to go through the recipe as there are many available on the internet.
Make a splash with your family, friends and co workers.
Saturday, November 12, 2016
I Do Not Know About Where You Live But My Town Is Looking Sad And Shabby
I do not know about where you live but my town is looking sad and shabby. No one really looks happy. Streets are rough. Weeds growing up, buildings shabby. It is really sad. Like some kind of third or fourth world place.
The people are all sad or afraid looking. People are dressed poorly. They are out of shape. Obese, limping and sick looking. Others look like they haven't eaten for a long time.
The thrift shops have more customers than retail stores. Better prices and better products I would assume. As I see better and more desirable items there then what seems to be available new. At least to me.
There is a lot of traffic on the roads. Where are people going? The average car on the road now is over eleven years old. The people driving the nicer cars have a look on their face like how am I going to make the next payment. The traffic is going to work, doctors offices and stores I guess. Some just driving about.
You also see a lot of people riding the bus. Riding bicycles not because they want to but because they have to. Which I guess isn't a bad thing. You see a lot of homeless looking people as well.
Open up the paper and there are not hardly any jobs posted. The ones that are available are not that great. Most people I talk to hate their jobs. They all want out but have no where else to go. I see people who work with me trying as hard as they can and still not being able to get it done. Everyone is a nervous wreck and seem to be short on money. As prices keep rising.
Let's talk about housing. Even with the interest rates almost nothing the percentage of home ownership is down. Many barely holding on to them. How about rent. Rent is at an all time high. I have lived in the same apartment for 14 years. My rent has almost doubled in that time. While my income is less. This is the same for many people that I talk to.
Thirty years ago I wanted an old Victorian house, a Jaguar and a Rolex. Now a step up would to be on disability and medicade. Sorry, that's how I and many others feel. There are a lot of people who have just given up. There is no motivation to try.
There are a lot of clever people however that are making it in this economy. They are making money on ebay and other legal ways. Then there are the scammers and identity theft. What a good economy.
A vast number of the younger people are physically, mentally and unwilling to join the military service. They can't pass the tests.
The medical system is a mess. Copays and out of pockets have risen as well as the monthly premium costs. Only certain doctors take certain insurance. HMOs are basically worthless now. I had a HMO dental plan that I could find anyone to accept. But I was denied a low income public facility because I had insurance. I had to pay cash up front before they would pull a wisdom tooth. As they took the time to listen to me and not just throw me out the door when I showed them my insurance card. I had an infected toe which had already turned black and left untreated would have let to a foot amputation if untreated. Even with health insurance I had to pay $600 up front for them to treat it. What a system! My mother had to be rushed to the hospital. She had to pay up front to be taken to a room. With insurance. The next day someone came in without insurance and did nothing but complain and was treated like a queen. With the doctors and nurses telling her not to worry about a thing. What a deal.
There are more people on entitlements now then ever. It would be a raise for me. I could never make more at my job than I would make on disability. Why work?
As the country keeps letting in refugees and giving them all kinds of assistance. Where to go. Well I couldn't go to Europe. Well they are having problems too.
I guess I will just keep on plugging along until I can no longer pay my rent. As I keep paying on medical bills. Until something else happens. Whether good or bad.
Monday, October 17, 2016
Want To Make Great Mashed Potatoes? Use A Ricer!
When I was young eating mashed potatoes was a common side. Maybe three times a week. Just a poor peoples food.
I started making mashed potatoes in an other way. I had one of those junky plastic mashers from Kroger. So after about twenty years I got a nice Kitchen Aid masher from Publix. Heavy and cool looking I loved it.
But when I finally got the cooking done pat I seen on Public Televison people talking about and using a ricer. So I had to get one. They are readily available on the Internet through Amazon and a lot of other vendors.
You just peal and boil your potatoes like you always would and then strain them. With a slotted spoon put them into the ricer and squeeze them through. You get the most wonderful evenly mashed potatoes. Add milk, butter and seasoning. You will have the best mashed potatoes.
Put them into the same pot you boiled them in and heat on low. You make what you want now and have some great leftovers.
I started making mashed potatoes in an other way. I had one of those junky plastic mashers from Kroger. So after about twenty years I got a nice Kitchen Aid masher from Publix. Heavy and cool looking I loved it.
But when I finally got the cooking done pat I seen on Public Televison people talking about and using a ricer. So I had to get one. They are readily available on the Internet through Amazon and a lot of other vendors.
You just peal and boil your potatoes like you always would and then strain them. With a slotted spoon put them into the ricer and squeeze them through. You get the most wonderful evenly mashed potatoes. Add milk, butter and seasoning. You will have the best mashed potatoes.
Put them into the same pot you boiled them in and heat on low. You make what you want now and have some great leftovers.
Saturday, October 1, 2016
What About The People That Were Actually Born In The United States?
On the news we are constantly pounded with issues concerning immigrants and refuges. What about the people that were actually born in the USA?
The last President I can recall thinking of natural born tax paying Americans was George W. Bush. I remember getting at least two $600 checks from the Federal Government for economic stimulus. In the last eight years I have received nothing. Except rising insurance costs. Rising food costs. Higher co pays on medical insurance. Higher rent costs. My rent has almost doubled in 13 years for the same apartment.
But the present administration has bent over backwards to accommodate immigrants and refuges. Providing them with housing, food, medical, transportation, cell phones, employment and everything else. Good time to be a refugee.
The other part of the population has been stuck with paying taxes and got stuck with pay the higher prices to pay for everything else.
So why is the country so much in debt. What are they spending the money on?
The last President I can recall thinking of natural born tax paying Americans was George W. Bush. I remember getting at least two $600 checks from the Federal Government for economic stimulus. In the last eight years I have received nothing. Except rising insurance costs. Rising food costs. Higher co pays on medical insurance. Higher rent costs. My rent has almost doubled in 13 years for the same apartment.
But the present administration has bent over backwards to accommodate immigrants and refuges. Providing them with housing, food, medical, transportation, cell phones, employment and everything else. Good time to be a refugee.
The other part of the population has been stuck with paying taxes and got stuck with pay the higher prices to pay for everything else.
So why is the country so much in debt. What are they spending the money on?
Saturday, August 27, 2016
What Ever Happened To Shotgun Weddings?
Back in the day when you got someone pregnant you had to marry them. It was called a shotgun wedding because the father came to you with a shotgun in hands and made you marry the girl taking responsibility of the child you were creating.
Fast forward to now days. The girls get pregnant. Go on welfare. Get section 8 housing, WIC for food, SNAP for luxury item food, medical care, free phone, and assistance with automobiles.
So we have created a Great Society of a welfare state making no one responsible for their own actions. The caveat is a big profit of getting a lot for nothing. Free sex, food, housing and medical care. Pretty good deal if you get a piece of the action.
With this mentality we have became decedent to a point of nearly no return. Young people come to my work place and are always tired and hurting. I ask "what are you going to do when you get my age?". They just look at me like a deer in the headlights.
There has been a total loss of responsibiity, pride, morality and physical health. We are a sick and tired nation.
When you are out and about look at the people around you. They are full of anxiety and lack of patience. In stark contrast to Paula Cole's 1996 song Where Have All The Cowboys Gone?. She all the says "I'll raise the kids and you pay all the bills". You know the old way that made America great. A family structure with everyone taking responsibility for their actions.
So as a nation we have lost all of the ability to make clothes, shoes, steel, consumer products and just about everything else. No one wants to work. The one's that are hate their jobs. The people are continuing to get more demanding because it is their right.
No one can say or do anything about it I guess. That would be politically incorrect. But a cow does not make ham. We have lost a grip on reality. As a society we have became weak and have a bad disposition. The demands put upon the people that are working are becoming beyond the pail.
We no longer have the skills to make clothes, shoes, steel, electronics, tools, energy (although when we did reach a point of being energy self sufficient the administration shut it down. When you have an administration that is against the American Way it takes it's toll. We are even selling off the Strategic Fuel Reserve. Which with cheap oil we should be filling up everything. Every tank, barrel and bucket. And no one thinks of energy conservation anymore. So stupid.
When George Bush was President he sent out a couple of economic stimulus to the people that actually worked. I received at least two checks for $600. Have you seen that with the present administration? No they are just catering to the people on freebies. For votes of course.
An industry that has been neglected is recycling. That could create a lot of jobs. But no one wants to work. When you get everything for free.
We need to bring back shotgun weddings.
Fast forward to now days. The girls get pregnant. Go on welfare. Get section 8 housing, WIC for food, SNAP for luxury item food, medical care, free phone, and assistance with automobiles.
So we have created a Great Society of a welfare state making no one responsible for their own actions. The caveat is a big profit of getting a lot for nothing. Free sex, food, housing and medical care. Pretty good deal if you get a piece of the action.
With this mentality we have became decedent to a point of nearly no return. Young people come to my work place and are always tired and hurting. I ask "what are you going to do when you get my age?". They just look at me like a deer in the headlights.
There has been a total loss of responsibiity, pride, morality and physical health. We are a sick and tired nation.
When you are out and about look at the people around you. They are full of anxiety and lack of patience. In stark contrast to Paula Cole's 1996 song Where Have All The Cowboys Gone?. She all the says "I'll raise the kids and you pay all the bills". You know the old way that made America great. A family structure with everyone taking responsibility for their actions.
So as a nation we have lost all of the ability to make clothes, shoes, steel, consumer products and just about everything else. No one wants to work. The one's that are hate their jobs. The people are continuing to get more demanding because it is their right.
No one can say or do anything about it I guess. That would be politically incorrect. But a cow does not make ham. We have lost a grip on reality. As a society we have became weak and have a bad disposition. The demands put upon the people that are working are becoming beyond the pail.
We no longer have the skills to make clothes, shoes, steel, electronics, tools, energy (although when we did reach a point of being energy self sufficient the administration shut it down. When you have an administration that is against the American Way it takes it's toll. We are even selling off the Strategic Fuel Reserve. Which with cheap oil we should be filling up everything. Every tank, barrel and bucket. And no one thinks of energy conservation anymore. So stupid.
When George Bush was President he sent out a couple of economic stimulus to the people that actually worked. I received at least two checks for $600. Have you seen that with the present administration? No they are just catering to the people on freebies. For votes of course.
An industry that has been neglected is recycling. That could create a lot of jobs. But no one wants to work. When you get everything for free.
We need to bring back shotgun weddings.
Friday, August 12, 2016
Want To Stimulate The Economy? Lower The Medicare Age To 62
A of people put off retirement and taking Social Security because the cost of insurance is so costly now. Lowering the age of Medicare to 62 would have a lot of ripple effects.
For one thing a lot of people would retire at 62. A lot of companies have discontinued giving retirees health insurance. So they put off retirement till 65 till they can get Medicare. Which when it was designed would cover all costs, not 80%. So most of the people get a supplemental plan for about $200 a month to cover themselves. Although most have a $10,000 liability. Companies have figured out ways to not provide retirees insurance for life. They change names, bankrupt, all legal ways to get out.
So the corporate greed has eliminated the insurance that was promised to retirees. This may be why stocks are high. I do not know as I am not a pundit.
The other thing is that if the Federal Government would change the Medicare age a lot of people would commit to the 62 year old Social Security and loose 33% of their potential pay. But who wants to work till they are 70 years old and half dead to get the full amount? I don't.
They can give Medicaid to young people and aliens. Why not modify Medicare?
Most companies have dropped down to hiring only part time people anyway. And the ones they hire are usually getting WIC, Snap, and Section 8 anyway. So they do not want to work too much to loose their benefits.
I will have to work till 70 to get the full amount of Social Security. Which is still $200 less than if I cold go on Disability right now. I wold receive more money on Disability right now than if I was at the top pay scale where I work. So what is the motivation to want to work? Nothing.
In the event that more people would retire at 62 and take Social Security at that time with Medicare it would open up more jobs. For the younger people that supposes to want jobs.
If the Federal Government can provide health insurance to people that have never paid into Medicare, Social Security or paid taxes, why cannot they make that adjustment?
It should not make the Social Security folks upset because they would be committing to a 33% lower payout. It should not make the medical insurance companies upset because they would have a wave of new customers.
The downside is that those people would be committing themselves to work till death, for the most part. As their Social Security would most likely only cover their rent. So they would still have to work to a certain extent to cover medical co payments and food. So much for the American dreams.
It is a dream alright. But a bad dream. I would however rather work Twenty or so hours part time to get by than fourty. Because I am just wearing down. Work, home, store is about it. I am physically worn out. I started working in 1970. Am are tired.
I just got a bill for $22,000 for surgery that the insurance company approved but is now putting through a hassle to take care of. I won,t make $22,000 this whole year. The system it messed up.
Our lovely President keeping letting outsiders come in and providing refugees with health insurance, housing, cars, cell phones, and jobs. Hillary Clinton will be even worse. She will appeal to the women just to be the first women President. And will cater to the people on entitlements. Keep a good thing going.
As a nation we need to limit entitlements to the people receiving them. One kid only. Period. A working family does not get a raise because they have more kids. They have to bare with it.
Cut the free stuff to President Oboma's personal militia. Get everybody working again.
I do not think that most people my age will make it to the 70 Social Security age. That is the bet. So why not get what you can when you can.
Being off for surgery for eight weeks I figured out it is a lot better not working than working. I started working in 1970 and am getting tired and broke down.
This adjustment to Medicare should happen.
For one thing a lot of people would retire at 62. A lot of companies have discontinued giving retirees health insurance. So they put off retirement till 65 till they can get Medicare. Which when it was designed would cover all costs, not 80%. So most of the people get a supplemental plan for about $200 a month to cover themselves. Although most have a $10,000 liability. Companies have figured out ways to not provide retirees insurance for life. They change names, bankrupt, all legal ways to get out.
So the corporate greed has eliminated the insurance that was promised to retirees. This may be why stocks are high. I do not know as I am not a pundit.
The other thing is that if the Federal Government would change the Medicare age a lot of people would commit to the 62 year old Social Security and loose 33% of their potential pay. But who wants to work till they are 70 years old and half dead to get the full amount? I don't.
They can give Medicaid to young people and aliens. Why not modify Medicare?
Most companies have dropped down to hiring only part time people anyway. And the ones they hire are usually getting WIC, Snap, and Section 8 anyway. So they do not want to work too much to loose their benefits.
I will have to work till 70 to get the full amount of Social Security. Which is still $200 less than if I cold go on Disability right now. I wold receive more money on Disability right now than if I was at the top pay scale where I work. So what is the motivation to want to work? Nothing.
In the event that more people would retire at 62 and take Social Security at that time with Medicare it would open up more jobs. For the younger people that supposes to want jobs.
If the Federal Government can provide health insurance to people that have never paid into Medicare, Social Security or paid taxes, why cannot they make that adjustment?
It should not make the Social Security folks upset because they would be committing to a 33% lower payout. It should not make the medical insurance companies upset because they would have a wave of new customers.
The downside is that those people would be committing themselves to work till death, for the most part. As their Social Security would most likely only cover their rent. So they would still have to work to a certain extent to cover medical co payments and food. So much for the American dreams.
It is a dream alright. But a bad dream. I would however rather work Twenty or so hours part time to get by than fourty. Because I am just wearing down. Work, home, store is about it. I am physically worn out. I started working in 1970. Am are tired.
I just got a bill for $22,000 for surgery that the insurance company approved but is now putting through a hassle to take care of. I won,t make $22,000 this whole year. The system it messed up.
Our lovely President keeping letting outsiders come in and providing refugees with health insurance, housing, cars, cell phones, and jobs. Hillary Clinton will be even worse. She will appeal to the women just to be the first women President. And will cater to the people on entitlements. Keep a good thing going.
As a nation we need to limit entitlements to the people receiving them. One kid only. Period. A working family does not get a raise because they have more kids. They have to bare with it.
Cut the free stuff to President Oboma's personal militia. Get everybody working again.
I do not think that most people my age will make it to the 70 Social Security age. That is the bet. So why not get what you can when you can.
Being off for surgery for eight weeks I figured out it is a lot better not working than working. I started working in 1970 and am getting tired and broke down.
This adjustment to Medicare should happen.
Saturday, July 30, 2016
What Ever Happened To Saving Energy?
Remember when saving energy was on every ones mind. It started in the mid 1970s. But we needed some kind of concern as the Vietnam War had ended. Inflation was on the rise. Environmental issues became paramount.
Set your thermostat to a higher temperature in the summer and a lower one in the winter. Drive more efficient automobiles. Use a bicycle or public transportation.
Industry responded with more fuel efficient automobiles, downsizing many. The national speed limit was dropped to 55 miles per hour. Appliances were built to use less energy. It all sounded like a great plan that 30 years later we have taken for granted.
Our appliances have became more efficient. But now were have more of them. Switching CFLs instead of incandescent light bulbs saved me 30% on my bill the first month. Now that LED lighting is dropping in price that accounts for further savings.
This sounds like a better public concern that fighting among ourselves. This may be something we can unite ourselves with rather than unnecessary violence.
The United States has a lot of coal and natural gas. With efforts and technology can be used. It seems enough oil has been found. Coal and gas can be used a fuel for automobiles, construction equipment, etc. Let us use it and fix up the Strategic Reserve fuel area and every empty container full of fuel. This also creates jobs and opportunities for business to open up and provide more jobs.
Hydro electric power plants used to be able to keep up with the demand 100 years ago. Not so now. Many countries make the majority of their electric needs from wind and solar.
As much as 60% of the food produced is thrown out. Either rotten or not good enough looking to put in the market. Let us figure out a way to use it.
There are thousands of jobs to be created in the area of achieving nearly !00% recycling.
So let us rally behind something useful like this.
Set your thermostat to a higher temperature in the summer and a lower one in the winter. Drive more efficient automobiles. Use a bicycle or public transportation.
Industry responded with more fuel efficient automobiles, downsizing many. The national speed limit was dropped to 55 miles per hour. Appliances were built to use less energy. It all sounded like a great plan that 30 years later we have taken for granted.
Our appliances have became more efficient. But now were have more of them. Switching CFLs instead of incandescent light bulbs saved me 30% on my bill the first month. Now that LED lighting is dropping in price that accounts for further savings.
This sounds like a better public concern that fighting among ourselves. This may be something we can unite ourselves with rather than unnecessary violence.
The United States has a lot of coal and natural gas. With efforts and technology can be used. It seems enough oil has been found. Coal and gas can be used a fuel for automobiles, construction equipment, etc. Let us use it and fix up the Strategic Reserve fuel area and every empty container full of fuel. This also creates jobs and opportunities for business to open up and provide more jobs.
Hydro electric power plants used to be able to keep up with the demand 100 years ago. Not so now. Many countries make the majority of their electric needs from wind and solar.
As much as 60% of the food produced is thrown out. Either rotten or not good enough looking to put in the market. Let us figure out a way to use it.
There are thousands of jobs to be created in the area of achieving nearly !00% recycling.
So let us rally behind something useful like this.
Thursday, July 28, 2016
What Is This Upcoming Election Really About?
I wish someone would tell me. I have a degree in Political Science and I am really on the verge of being about another civil war. First of all there has been an entire brain washing on both sides.
It used to be the parties were broken up between the supposed haves and have not. Big business. Union and workers. rich and poor.
Our society has successfully been divided into stereo types. All which fit into their own little pigeon holes and act as if they are like robots in their particular divisions. The best way to take over is to create a Malay. You have made enough confusion, division, hatred, fanaticism, violence, ambivalence, activism, desperation and ignorance to take control. The environment then lends itself to an easy takeover by people who really do not have your own best interest in mind.
The country as a whole has gotten weak. The systems that were created to end poverty and inequality have been abused. Making a huge burden on the government and society. I do not see that many people starving to death. Fact is I do not see that many people without a smart phone, car, computer, a place to live, TV, clothing, housing, electricity, plumbing or anything. So we are there. I guess we are the Great Society. Kind of.
But there seems to be more unhappiness and discontent. Why? Because we have been busted up as a society to be that way. Every one wants something for free. Live the good life. Do what ever they want. Why? Because we have had it beaten into our heads for years.
What ever happened to shotgun weddings? When I was young if you got a girl pregnant you had to marry her.
Can we ever go back to the "good old days"? Not as it was. But there has to be middle ground. Live and let live. But do not think that you have the right to do whatever you want. There are laws you know.
I do not care if you are white, black, Asian, purple or from Mars. Let us just be nice. People are dissatisfied when it has not been much better.
A big root cause was the economic situation in the late seventies and early eighties. High interest rates created an environment for a lot of small manufacturers to just close down and not have to deal with taxes and employees.
So if anyone has an answer please leave it in my comment section.
It used to be the parties were broken up between the supposed haves and have not. Big business. Union and workers. rich and poor.
Our society has successfully been divided into stereo types. All which fit into their own little pigeon holes and act as if they are like robots in their particular divisions. The best way to take over is to create a Malay. You have made enough confusion, division, hatred, fanaticism, violence, ambivalence, activism, desperation and ignorance to take control. The environment then lends itself to an easy takeover by people who really do not have your own best interest in mind.
The country as a whole has gotten weak. The systems that were created to end poverty and inequality have been abused. Making a huge burden on the government and society. I do not see that many people starving to death. Fact is I do not see that many people without a smart phone, car, computer, a place to live, TV, clothing, housing, electricity, plumbing or anything. So we are there. I guess we are the Great Society. Kind of.
But there seems to be more unhappiness and discontent. Why? Because we have been busted up as a society to be that way. Every one wants something for free. Live the good life. Do what ever they want. Why? Because we have had it beaten into our heads for years.
What ever happened to shotgun weddings? When I was young if you got a girl pregnant you had to marry her.
Can we ever go back to the "good old days"? Not as it was. But there has to be middle ground. Live and let live. But do not think that you have the right to do whatever you want. There are laws you know.
I do not care if you are white, black, Asian, purple or from Mars. Let us just be nice. People are dissatisfied when it has not been much better.
A big root cause was the economic situation in the late seventies and early eighties. High interest rates created an environment for a lot of small manufacturers to just close down and not have to deal with taxes and employees.
So if anyone has an answer please leave it in my comment section.
What Is This Upcoming Election Really About?
I wish someone would tell me. I have a degree in Political Science and I am really on the verge of being about another civil war. First of all there has been an entire brain washing on both sides.
It used to be the parties were broken up between the supposed haves and have not. Big business. Union and workers. rich and poor.
Our society has successfully been divided into stereo types. All which fit into their own little pigeon holes and act as if they are like robots in their particular divisions. The best way to take over is to create a Malay. You have made enough confusion, division, hatred, fanaticism, violence, ambivalence, activism, desperation and ignorance to take control. The environment then lends itself to an easy takeover by people who really do not have your own best interest in mind.
The country as a whole has gotten weak. The systems that were created to end poverty and inequality have been abused. Making a huge burden on the government and society. I do not see that many people starving to death. Fact is I do not see that many people without a smart phone, car, computer, a place to live, TV, clothing, housing, electricity, plumbing or anything. So we are there. I guess we are the Great Society. Kind of.
But there seems to be more unhappiness and discontent. Why? Because we have been busted up as a society to be that way. Every one wants something for free. Live the good life. Do what ever they want. Why? Because we have had it beaten into our heads for years.
What ever happened to shotgun weddings? When I was young if you got a girl pregnant you had to marry her.
Can we ever go back to the "good old days"? Not as it was. But there has to be middle ground. Live and let live. But do not think that you have the right to do whatever you want. There are laws you know.
I do not care if you are white, black, Asian, purple or from Mars. Let us just be nice. People are dissatisfied when it has not been much better.
A big root cause was the economic situation in the late seventies and early eighties. High interest rates created an environment for a lot of small manufacturers to just close down and not have to deal with taxes and employees.
So if anyone has an answer please leave it in my comment section.
It used to be the parties were broken up between the supposed haves and have not. Big business. Union and workers. rich and poor.
Our society has successfully been divided into stereo types. All which fit into their own little pigeon holes and act as if they are like robots in their particular divisions. The best way to take over is to create a Malay. You have made enough confusion, division, hatred, fanaticism, violence, ambivalence, activism, desperation and ignorance to take control. The environment then lends itself to an easy takeover by people who really do not have your own best interest in mind.
The country as a whole has gotten weak. The systems that were created to end poverty and inequality have been abused. Making a huge burden on the government and society. I do not see that many people starving to death. Fact is I do not see that many people without a smart phone, car, computer, a place to live, TV, clothing, housing, electricity, plumbing or anything. So we are there. I guess we are the Great Society. Kind of.
But there seems to be more unhappiness and discontent. Why? Because we have been busted up as a society to be that way. Every one wants something for free. Live the good life. Do what ever they want. Why? Because we have had it beaten into our heads for years.
What ever happened to shotgun weddings? When I was young if you got a girl pregnant you had to marry her.
Can we ever go back to the "good old days"? Not as it was. But there has to be middle ground. Live and let live. But do not think that you have the right to do whatever you want. There are laws you know.
I do not care if you are white, black, Asian, purple or from Mars. Let us just be nice. People are dissatisfied when it has not been much better.
A big root cause was the economic situation in the late seventies and early eighties. High interest rates created an environment for a lot of small manufacturers to just close down and not have to deal with taxes and employees.
So if anyone has an answer please leave it in my comment section.
Friday, July 8, 2016
Non Stick Cookware vs Stainless Steel
I have done a post about iron skillets. Now we will write about non stick cookware vs. stainless steel.
First we will speak of non stick. Non stick like any other types range greatly in price. From the cheap aluminum to the hard anodized type. Aluminum leaches into the food. So the best way to go is the anodized. It makes the aluminum twice as hard a stainless steel. Aluminum heats quickly and fairly evenly. I also have a T-fal stainless steel nonstick. A trait of non stick however is that regardless of cost and brand it wears out. Both of the non stick pans I have a hard anodized Cuisinart claim to be dishwasher safe and safe for metal utensils. And be oven safe to 500 degrees F. But when you open the box they suggest hand washing and plastic or wood utensils. Low to medium heat is also suggested. They also do not sear meat well do to the low heat tolerence. Non stick is good for cooking eggs, fish and other items that do stick in iron and stainless. There are also a lot of non stick coatings out there made by about three different companies. Just a couple of uses with metal tongs put small marks on the Cuisinart I just got. No more metal in this one. Some last and are better than others. Check it out on the Internet. Also the new copper pans on TV have gotten rotten reviews.
Now we come to stainless steel. Again a big spread in price and quality. Stainless steel itself does not conduct heat well. It also has hot and cold spots. But there is a way of making stainless work well. It is called tri clad or tri ply. Where the bottom or the pan and some higher end products have copper or aluminum layered in the metal. Causing the stainless steel to conduct heat well and evenly.
People complain about food sticking with stainless. It will. Unless you do it correctly. the first thing to do is heat the pan. To a temperature that if you throw a drop of water in the pan it will dance around. Then add any oil or butter that you plan to use. Then that heat up as well. After that add you food. Do not try to turn your food over too quickly. As it will naturally release when it is timed to be turned. Good stainless with a metal handle will also take the heat to sear meat as a steak and go into the oven up to 500 degrees.
As far as cleaning goes, just let it soak in hot soapy water for a while. The only time I have had a hard time with cleaning stainless is after having the burner too hot or not wiping off the coil from the electric stove after using a seasoned iron skillet which will leave grease on the burner passing it on to the next skillet.
I am suprised as to how many of the cooking show folks use non stick. And with metal utensils. Of course then probably get a new pan for every show. Then you will see them all using stainless the next time.
A good stainless steel skillet will last a lifetime as you learn how to use it.
First we will speak of non stick. Non stick like any other types range greatly in price. From the cheap aluminum to the hard anodized type. Aluminum leaches into the food. So the best way to go is the anodized. It makes the aluminum twice as hard a stainless steel. Aluminum heats quickly and fairly evenly. I also have a T-fal stainless steel nonstick. A trait of non stick however is that regardless of cost and brand it wears out. Both of the non stick pans I have a hard anodized Cuisinart claim to be dishwasher safe and safe for metal utensils. And be oven safe to 500 degrees F. But when you open the box they suggest hand washing and plastic or wood utensils. Low to medium heat is also suggested. They also do not sear meat well do to the low heat tolerence. Non stick is good for cooking eggs, fish and other items that do stick in iron and stainless. There are also a lot of non stick coatings out there made by about three different companies. Just a couple of uses with metal tongs put small marks on the Cuisinart I just got. No more metal in this one. Some last and are better than others. Check it out on the Internet. Also the new copper pans on TV have gotten rotten reviews.
Now we come to stainless steel. Again a big spread in price and quality. Stainless steel itself does not conduct heat well. It also has hot and cold spots. But there is a way of making stainless work well. It is called tri clad or tri ply. Where the bottom or the pan and some higher end products have copper or aluminum layered in the metal. Causing the stainless steel to conduct heat well and evenly.
People complain about food sticking with stainless. It will. Unless you do it correctly. the first thing to do is heat the pan. To a temperature that if you throw a drop of water in the pan it will dance around. Then add any oil or butter that you plan to use. Then that heat up as well. After that add you food. Do not try to turn your food over too quickly. As it will naturally release when it is timed to be turned. Good stainless with a metal handle will also take the heat to sear meat as a steak and go into the oven up to 500 degrees.
As far as cleaning goes, just let it soak in hot soapy water for a while. The only time I have had a hard time with cleaning stainless is after having the burner too hot or not wiping off the coil from the electric stove after using a seasoned iron skillet which will leave grease on the burner passing it on to the next skillet.
I am suprised as to how many of the cooking show folks use non stick. And with metal utensils. Of course then probably get a new pan for every show. Then you will see them all using stainless the next time.
A good stainless steel skillet will last a lifetime as you learn how to use it.
Non Stick Cookware vs Stainless Steel
I have done a post about iron skillets. Now we will write about non stick cookware vs. stainless steel.
First we will speak of non stick. Non stick like any other types range greatly in price. From the cheap aluminum to the hard anodized type. Aluminum leaches into the food. So the best way to go is the anodized. It makes the aluminum twice as hard a stainless steel. Aluminum heats quickly and fairly evenly. I also have a T-fal stainless steel nonstick. A trait of non stick however is that regardless of cost and brand it wears out. Both of the non stick pans I have a hard anodized Cuisinart claim to be dishwasher safe and safe for metal utensils. And be oven safe to 500 degrees F. But when you open the box they suggest hand washing and plastic or wood utensils. Low to medium heat is also suggested. They also do not sear meat well do to the low heat tolerence. Non stick is good for cooking eggs, fish and other items that do stick in iron and stainless. There are also a lot of non stick coatings out there made by about three different companies. Just a couple of uses with metal tongs put small marks on the Cuisinart I just got. No more metal in this one. Some last and are better than others. Check it out on the Internet. Also the new copper pans on TV have gotten rotten reviews.
Now we come to stainless steel. Again a big spread in price and quality. Stainless steel itself does not conduct heat well. It also has hot and cold spots. But there is a way of making stainless work well. It is called tri clad or tri ply. Where the bottom or the pan and some higher end products have copper or aluminum layered in the metal. Causing the stainless steel to conduct heat well and evenly.
People complain about food sticking with stainless. It will. Unless you do it correctly. the first thing to do is heat the pan. To a temperature that if you throw a drop of water in the pan it will dance around. Then add any oil or butter that you plan to use. Then that heat up as well. After that add you food. Do not try to turn your food over too quickly. As it will naturally release when it is timed to be turned. Good stainless with a metal handle will also take the heat to sear meat as a steak and go into the oven up to 500 degrees.
As far as cleaning goes, just let it soak in hot soapy water for a while. The only time I have had a hard time with cleaning stainless is after having the burner too hot or not wiping off the coil from the electric stove after using a seasoned iron skillet which will leave grease on the burner passing it on to the next skillet.
I am suprised as to how many of the cooking show folks use non stick. And with metal utensils. Of course then probably get a new pan for every show. Then you will see them all using stainless the next time.
A good stainless steel skillet will last a lifetime as you learn how to use it.
First we will speak of non stick. Non stick like any other types range greatly in price. From the cheap aluminum to the hard anodized type. Aluminum leaches into the food. So the best way to go is the anodized. It makes the aluminum twice as hard a stainless steel. Aluminum heats quickly and fairly evenly. I also have a T-fal stainless steel nonstick. A trait of non stick however is that regardless of cost and brand it wears out. Both of the non stick pans I have a hard anodized Cuisinart claim to be dishwasher safe and safe for metal utensils. And be oven safe to 500 degrees F. But when you open the box they suggest hand washing and plastic or wood utensils. Low to medium heat is also suggested. They also do not sear meat well do to the low heat tolerence. Non stick is good for cooking eggs, fish and other items that do stick in iron and stainless. There are also a lot of non stick coatings out there made by about three different companies. Just a couple of uses with metal tongs put small marks on the Cuisinart I just got. No more metal in this one. Some last and are better than others. Check it out on the Internet. Also the new copper pans on TV have gotten rotten reviews.
Now we come to stainless steel. Again a big spread in price and quality. Stainless steel itself does not conduct heat well. It also has hot and cold spots. But there is a way of making stainless work well. It is called tri clad or tri ply. Where the bottom or the pan and some higher end products have copper or aluminum layered in the metal. Causing the stainless steel to conduct heat well and evenly.
People complain about food sticking with stainless. It will. Unless you do it correctly. the first thing to do is heat the pan. To a temperature that if you throw a drop of water in the pan it will dance around. Then add any oil or butter that you plan to use. Then that heat up as well. After that add you food. Do not try to turn your food over too quickly. As it will naturally release when it is timed to be turned. Good stainless with a metal handle will also take the heat to sear meat as a steak and go into the oven up to 500 degrees.
As far as cleaning goes, just let it soak in hot soapy water for a while. The only time I have had a hard time with cleaning stainless is after having the burner too hot or not wiping off the coil from the electric stove after using a seasoned iron skillet which will leave grease on the burner passing it on to the next skillet.
I am suprised as to how many of the cooking show folks use non stick. And with metal utensils. Of course then probably get a new pan for every show. Then you will see them all using stainless the next time.
A good stainless steel skillet will last a lifetime as you learn how to use it.
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