If Elected I Will: Promises Made by Politicians

  Election time is here ! We can tell by the sprouting of signs in lawns, billboards, newspapers, TV and Radio ads.  (which is, it seems at least one or two out three ads).  They fall into three different catagories.  One is telling you how bad a person their opponent is.  The second is telling you what a terrific person the one who’s being told what a louse he is by his opponent.  The Third is PROMISES, that are in truth what the politician thinks the people he represents want to hear.  So, today let’s take a short look at how valid, or likely those freely strewn promises have of actually happening.  It is really more complicated than what we see here; but this will give you somewhat of an idea how most of the things promised Won’t happen.  I would much rather hear, “These are the things I WANT to do”.   Rather than, “This what I WILL do, if elected”.  Doesn’t that sound more truthful? So here we go. When politicians run for office, they often make a variety of promises to the electorate. These campaign promises are designed to align with their constituents’ values and concerns, and are intended to illustrate the candidates’ goals if they are elected. However, it is true that these promises sometimes extend beyond what the politicians themselves can personally deliver. Let’s look at some of the reasons why this is the case. 1. Separation of Powers: In many democratic societies, powers are divided among different branches of government. For example, in the United States, power is split between executive, legislative, and judicial branches. If a candidate running for an executive office (like President or Governor) makes a promise that requires legislation to be passed or changed, they will need cooperation from the legislative branch where lawmakers may not share their views or objectives. 2. Opposition: Politicians often face opposition from other elected officials who either have different views or might not want them to succeed for political reasons. This opposition can come from within their own party (intra-party) or from other parties (inter-party). This opposition might block or delay legislation needed to fulfill certain promises. 3. External Constraints: Sometimes events outside a politician’s control can hinder their ability to fulfill promises made during campaigns. The economy could enter a recession; there could be natural disasters; international events could demand time and resources–all these factors can divert attention and resources away from certain campaign promises. 4. Public Opinion: Public opinion can shift over time due to external factors or changes in societal attitudes which may make it difficult for politicians to keep certain campaign promises without risking public approval. 5. Constraints by Law and Constitution: Many countries have constitutions that place restrictions on what government bodies can do within their jurisdiction which may limit a politician’s ability to fulfill some election promises. Despite these constraints, it’s important for citizens in any democracy to hold elected officials accountable for their campaign pledges within these realistic limits. If a politician consistently fails to meet their promises without good reason, voters can express their dissatisfaction at the ballot box in the next election. An educated electorate is a key pillar of any healthy democracy, and understanding the real constraints politicians face can help voters make informed decisions about which candidates truly have their best interests at heart. Views: 156

THE FUTURE of SOLDIER FIELD: RENOVATE or RELOCATE?

[adrotate group=”1″]      🏈The Chicago Bears’ association with Soldier Field is one steeped in history and tradition. As one of the NFL’s oldest franchises, the Bears’ decision to either remain at Soldier Field or move to a new stadium is fraught with both sentiment and strategy. Here, we explore the pros and cons of each option. Pros of Staying at Soldier Field      Historical Significance:  Soldier Field has been home to the Bears since 1971 and is a monument to American football history. It stands as a testament to the team’s storied past and offers fans a sense of continuity and heritage.     Location:  Nestled within the city’s metropolitan area, Soldier Field is easily accessible for city dwellers and offers stunning views of the Chicago skyline, enhancing the game-day experience.     The stadium generates significant economic activity for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and vendors, especially on game days. Cons of Staying at Soldier Field Outdated Facilities:  Despite renovations, Soldier Field struggles to meet modern standards for amenities and technology compared to newer stadiums. Limited Capacity:  With a seating capacity of just over 61,000, it is one of the smallest stadiums in the NFL, limiting ticket sales and revenue potential. Restrictions on Expansion:  Soldier Field is a historical landmark, which imposes restrictions on any significant structural changes or expansions. Pros of Relocating State-of-the-Art Stadium:  A new stadium would offer modern amenities, increased comfort for fans, and advanced technology for an enhanced viewing experience. Increased Revenue:  A larger stadium would allow for more ticket sales, luxury boxes, and events, significantly boosting the team’s revenue. Opportunity for Growth:  A new location could provide space for additional facilities, such as training complexes and administrative offices, fostering growth and development. Cons of Relocating Loss of Tradition:  Moving away from Soldier Field would sever ties with a rich history that has become a part of the team’s identity. Financial Burden:  Building a new stadium is a massive financial undertaking, with costs often running into the billions, which may not be recouped quickly. Community Impact:  Relocation could negatively impact the businesses and workers who rely on the stadium’s presence in the city. In conclusion, the decision to either revitalize Soldier Field or build a new home for the Bears is complex. It involves weighing the benefits of modernization and potential revenue against the intangible value of tradition and history. The Bears’ choice will ultimately reflect their vision for the team’s future and its legacy.      This  post is a high-level overview of the considerations involved in the decision-making process for the Chicago Bears’ potential move from Soldier Field. For a more detailed analysis, further research and input from stakeholders, including fans, city officials, and the team itself, would be beneficial.🏈 [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 145

THE DISRUPTIVE SHIFT

[adrotate group=”1″] Daylight saving time, that biannual clock dance, disrupts our internal rhythms. Here’s how: Health Risks:  The sudden shift messes with our bodies. Researchers link DST to increased risks of heart attacks, strokes, mood disturbances, and hospital admissions. Inflammatory markers spike due to stress, and car crashes become more likely after the spring forward. Energy Conservation Myth:  Benjamin Franklin’s candle-saving idea birthed DST, but today it’s questionable.  Lighting accounts for less energy use, and extending daylight hours encourages more air conditioning and heating. Mood Disorders:  Contrary to popular belief, extra evening sunlight doesn’t necessarily make us healthier. Data suggests DST exacerbates mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Circadian Rhythms:  Sunlight synchronizes our internal clocks.  While evening light is great for outdoor activities, it can disrupt our sleep patterns, making it harder to fall asleep at our usual bedtime. The Two-Hour Gap Now, let’s focus on the peculiar scenario of a state being two hours ahead of the sun. Imagine waking up while the world outside is still cloaked in darkness. Here’s what happens: Darker Mornings:  After DST, mornings become gloomier. The sun rises later, affecting our wake-up routines. On March 9, Milwaukee will see sunrise at 6:11 a.m., but on March 10, it won’t rise until 7:09 a.m. Evening Sunsets: On the flip side, evenings gain extra daylight. By April 15, the sun sets at 7:36 p.m. in Milwaukee, granting 13 hours and 29 minutes of daylight. Trade-Off:  While longer evenings are delightful, the cost is darker mornings. Finding the right balance is tricky. Longest Day of the Year Remember the Summer Solstice? It’s the longest day, when the sun reaches its zenith. This year, Milwaukeeans will bask in 15 hours and 25 minutes of daylight on June 20. The sun rises at 5:10 a.m. and sets at 8:36 p.m. DST isn’t just about adjusting clocks; it’s about recalibrating our lives. As we spring forward, let’s be mindful of the effects—both positive and negative—of this temporal tango with time.  BUT,  Our government officials do not care about OUR HEALTH.  All they care about is having more time to play Golf and enjoy the benefits of their extravagant lives.  Nevermind the average working man’s needs.  I suggest those who want DST should adjust their times to their schedules, NOT force the general  public to observe DST’ers to go along with their whims. DST’ers I ask you.  How much time have you saved.  (SAVED, as a rule means to put aside for use at a later date).  When to you plan to make that withdrawal of time.  Answer YOU HAVE NOT ONE MINUTE IN YOUR BANK.  YOU WILL NEVER USE IT.  Maybe DST should really be called SDT (SUN DELAYED TIME), at least that would be more HONEST! [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 148

THE DISAPPEARANCE OF CENTRAL AMERICA part 2

[adrotate group=”1″]         Central America has a rich and complex past, shaped by political upheavals, economic transformations, and social struggles. From its early days as part of the Spanish Empire to the tumultuous events of the 20th century, Central America has witnessed significant changes. Here’s a concise overview: Colonial Era and Independence: After centuries of Spanish colonization, Central America declared independence from the Spanish Empire in 1821. The region initially formed the Federal Republic of Central America, which included present-day countries such as Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica . However, this federation was short-lived. By 1822, some Central American countries were annexed by the First Mexican Empire under Emperor Agustín de Iturbide. Yet, they regained their independence and reconstituted the federal republic in 1823 . Economic Landscape and Social Struggles: In the aftermath of World War II, Latin America’s economic landscape underwent significant changes. The United Kingdom and the United States held political and economic interests in the region. Central America’s economy shifted from relying solely on agricultural exports to promoting internal development. However, this new system often favored capital over labor, leading to socioeconomic disparities . The most marginalized members of society faced unjust land tenure, labor coercion, and unequal political representation. Large corporations exerted influence, displacing self-sufficient farmers and workers . Central American Crisis (1970s-1990s): The late 1970s marked the onset of the Central American crisis. Major civil wars and communist revolutions erupted across the region. The United States feared that communist victories would isolate South America if Central American governments fell to pro-Soviet forces. Consequently, the U.S. supported right-wing governments against left-wing guerrillas . Notable events: Nicaragua: The Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) overthrew the Somoza dictatorship in 1979. The U.S. opposed the revolution due to FSLN’s communist sympathies and backed anti-left-wing rebels . El Salvador: The Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front (FMLN) fought against the military-led government. The U.S. supported the Salvadoran military and supplied arms . Guatemala: Civil war raged between 1962 and 1996, following a CIA-backed coup in 1954 . Legacy and Challenges: The Central American crisis left scars—thousands lost their lives, and societies grappled with trauma. Today, Central America faces ongoing challenges, including poverty, violence, and migration. Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, further impact the region . In summary, Central America’s history is a tapestry of struggle, resilience, and transformation. From colonial beginnings to modern complexities, this region continues to shape its destiny. [adrotate group=”1″]     Views: 123

THE DISAPPEARANCE of CENTRAL AMERICA: A TALE of INEQUALITY, VIOLENCE, and MIGRATION

[adrotate group=”1″]      When I attended school way back in the 1950s, we were taught the 3 AMERICAS.  1. North America:  Canada, United States of America, and Mexico.   Then there was 2. Central America:  Now made up of Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama.  However, you rarely, (if ever), hear Central America mentioned.  Did North America eat up these countries,  OR did South America take them over?   So I decided to do a little research.  This is all I could come up with.  Apparently this area is still CENTRAL AMERICA,  seems the MEDIA is unaware of the existence of Central America.   This will be a two post  story.  Please let me know… DOES CENTRAL AMERICA STILL EXIST? PART 1.      Central America, a region steeped in history and complexity, has witnessed profound changes over the centuries. From colonial conquests to modern-day struggles, its story is one of resilience, tragedy, and hope. In this blog post, we explore the disappearance of Central America—a disappearance not of landmass but of lives, dreams, and stability. Roots of Inequality and Violence Central America’s woes trace back to the age of Spanish colonization. The legacy of inequality and violence has haunted the region for centuries. Here are some key factors: Spanish Conquest: The arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century marked the beginning of a tumultuous era. Indigenous populations were subjugated, their lands seized, and their cultures suppressed. The seeds of inequality were sown. Elites vs. Populations: Over time, small criminal elites thrived at the expense of the masses. These elites controlled resources, perpetuating poverty and injustice. The majority struggled to survive, caught in a cycle of exploitation. US Intervention: The United States played a pivotal role in Central America’s fate. Sometimes unintentionally, other times deliberately, US actions shaped the region. Whether motivated by profit or ideology, the consequences were far-reaching. The Desperate Exodus   Fast-forward to the present day. Families in Central America face a hellish existence—a reality the US has helped create. Here’s how: Costly Journeys: Desperate to escape violence, poverty, and hopelessness, migrants embark on perilous journeys. The cost of smuggling services has skyrocketed—from $1,000 to up to $12,000. Families take out loans, hoping that reaching the US will be their salvation. US Policies: US foreign policy has often favored the powerful and wealthy. When activists championed the dispossessed, the US either intervened against them or turned a blind eye to their plight. The result? Families flee their homes, seeking refuge from a system that failed them. Unintended Consequences: Enforcement measures aimed at curbing illegal immigration inadvertently increased the stakes. Failure meant debt, and the only way to repay it was to keep trying. Women and children migrate, hoping to stay together. The Missing Voices Central America’s disappearance isn’t just about physical borders—it’s about the missing voices. More than two-thirds of migrants fleeing the northern triangle countries (Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador) have experienced murder, disappearance, or kidnapping . The toll is staggering: Guatemala: More than 45,000. El Salvador: Over 5,000. A Call for Change Central America’s struggle continues. Poverty, violence, and corruption persist. But so does resilience. Communities fight for justice, families search for their loved ones, and activists raise their voices. As we reflect on Central America’s disappearance, let us remember the faces behind the statistics—the lives lost, the dreams shattered. And let us advocate for a world where no one vanishes into the void, where every voice matters.   In the end, Central America’s story isn’t one of disappearance; it’s a story of survival, endurance, and the unwavering quest for a better tomorrow. [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 125

THE WALL, GUN CONTROL AND OTHER THINGS

I must apologize.  With TAX season upon us; I got busy and didn’t realize my hosting fee was due.  SORRY about that.  But we are up and running again. Let me begin by re-affirming. I AM NEITHER A REPUBLICAN NOR DEMOCRAT. I FEEL THERE IS NO ROOM FOR POLITICS IN GOVERNMENT. Recent events have shown WHY I have this belief. Was Donald Trump my first choice for President of United States. NO! However given the choice between Mr. Trump and Hillary Clinton ( a proven anti American candidate), there was little choice. I figure women voted for her because of their desire to have a WOMAN President. Then you have those people (of both parties) Who will vote for a candidate because he/she is of a certain party. If Hitler were alive and nominated for a political office there is NO doubt he would get the vote of those hard line PARTY MEMBERS. I do not think Donald Trump believed he had a chance to become President. And was really taken off guard when he got the nomination and then actually WON. Had the democratic party chosen an able candidate I may have voted for that one. However given the record of Barack Obama, IT would have been difficult to justify any DEMOCRATIC candidate.. I could write volumes about how Obama wasted eight years of being a very powerful person. (I did like that he appeared to to LOVE basketball). I could also fill volumes of why I feel Ms. Clinton is anti-American. Let me say that I was no fan of Republican Ronald Reagan, or H.W. Bush. Now on to my POST. As I see it TOO MANY OF YOU HAVE BECOME FOLLOWERS. You will sit there and watch a speech or a video account of something and RATHER, Than believe what YOU hear or see. YOU believe the editorialized version you receive from the MEDIA. We have so few NEWS “REPORTERS”. What we have are…” NEWS EDITORIALIZERS” They do not “REPORT NEWS” . THEY merely give you their version. (Or their boss”s version). I have seen many LIVE speeches given by Mr. Trump. Only to see the news version which has been edited. Omitting even a word or two can change the entire meaning. This is one trick they use to convince you to believe their way. I find it hard to believe the majority of DEMOCRATS are being truly represented by the people they elected. (Some Republicans are the same). It just seems that the DEMOCRATS now in office have no LOGICAL THINKING ABILITY. (I am one who relies on LOGIC more than not.   Let us look upon Nancy Pelosi. A person totally void of LOGIC. I know for a fact that Mr. Trump tried in earnest to negotiate with her on the wall deal. But Pelosi (being one minded), refused to try to negotiate. (NEGOTIATE: TO DEAL OR BARGAIN WITH ANOTHER OR OTHERS IN THE PREPARATION OF A TREATY OR CONTRACTIN PRELIMINARIES TO A BUSINESS DEAL). Example: If you are wanting a raise in wages. Say you are really wanting a dollar an hour raise, or if on salary you want a $5000 a year raise. Do you go to your boss and say I want a dollar an hour more. He will com back and say I will give you a quarter and hour and somehow you reach an agreement between his offer of a quarter and your asking one dollar. No you go in and ask for say $2 an hour raise through negotiation you agree to the dollar raise ( or near it), you get your raise the boss feels he has saved $1 an hour. You both are pleased. BUT If you go to the boss and say I want to negotiate a raise. The boss says NO I won’t discuss a raise. Thus you have no negotiations. That is exactly what Ms Pelosi told Mr. Trump. So he did what you and I would do and walked out.   Ms. Pelosi has her own agenda and thinks she is the sole charge of USA. An ego trip if you will. She is not interested in representing the majority of democrats, She is merely trying to make a name for herself. The name she is making I personally would hate to have. I know MANY Democrats whho have tuned her out and are ashamed to admit they are Democrats. People who have been Democrats for SIXTY to SEVENTY years.   Now let’s move to this wall thing. Jim Acosta a CNN reporter was walking along a portion of wall and telling everyone the wall was not needed. After all the businesses behind that wall were all doing well and no trouble with people illegally crossing ACCROSS the border. FROM BEHIND THE WALL.. Did you see the interview of the tthree ranchers whose ranches are along the border? One rancher tells of 2 million illegal crossings on his property and tearing down his fences. (I think that number could have been stretched a little), BUT they are entering our country illegally.. Another tells of 38 trucks coming across with illegal guns to be sold in our USA. Another tells of truckloads of drugs crossing onto his ranch. The third tells of even more truckloads of drugs, crossing over his ranch.   Ms. Pelosi and her comrade Schumer seem to go blind to these things. She claims we need “MORE GUN CONTROLS”; BUT ! Pretends there are illegal guns coming ILLEGALLY, into the USA.. Not to mention, in this day of “IDENTITY THEFT, HOW many of these illegal trespassers are using good citizens identities to obtain “ LEGAL GUNS”.   As to PRESIDENT TRUMP stating he could have not used his power to accelerate the building of the WALL, (I personally don’t like the idea of a wall ….BUT). To delay the inevitable is like shutting the barn door after the horse is out. Lets curb these illegal activities as quickly as… Continue reading THE WALL, GUN CONTROL AND OTHER THINGS

What Does Our Future Hold?

While watching recent news casts, and some reality show, which I rarely do, I began wondering, what DOES our future hold?  Will we be prepared? Here in the good old USA,  (The A is there.  It just doesn’t show up too well on a white background).   Our forefathers lived primarily off the land.  Hunting, Trapping, Fishing, and Tilling the land.  Yes we had merchants, who for the most part bartered their wares for their needs.  We now live in a more industrialized nation. Few people are self sufficient any more.  We mostly rely on someone  else to provide our wants and NEEDS.  NEEDS, being the operative word here.  What I will be addressing today is our Needs.  We all want somethings, but we can live without them.  Needs is what it takes for us to maintain life.  If for some reason our Dollar fails, what will we do?  Revert to the way of our forefathers. Today we have a much larger population.  Less farms, and woodlands.  Less farmland means we have less ground to grow our food.  Looking at it this way the farmer has an edge; very slight.  They will be able to grow crops, plant gardens, and may, or may not,  have a wooded area to Hunt and Trap,  or somewhere to Fish. Will they be able to support all of us?  Let’s probe deeper. When I was a child we had an 80 acre farm.  We grew crops, we had a garden we planted every year.  We had livestock, so we had meat, milk, and butter.  We had chickens, so no problem with eggs, or chicken to eat.  In our garden we also had berry bushes.  We knew our neighbors well, even though there may be a mile or more from us.  We knew if there was something we needed, and our neighbor had it they would help us our,  maybe just out of friendship, or maybe they needed or just wanted, we would trade.  Maybe it was feeding their livestock, or pets, while they were away for a day or more.  Maybe, it was something to be made.  My Mother was an excellent seamstress.  My Father was pretty much a Jack of All Trades.  Now, farmers have fields bigger than our farm. On the obverse side of the coin.  Farmers will need fuel for their machinery, Electricity, to run some of their equipment.  But if our dollar collapses, where will they be able to get the fuel?  Barter for it?  Maybe until the current supply runs out.  Then WHAT? During this time how will people react?  Will they be willing to help?  Or will they become hoarders?  Can’t blame them.  Family comes first. So what will you and I do?  Will we become Looters, or poachers.  Living in the city now, I may become a poacher.  Depending on if someone gives me permission to hunt or trap, or fish, on their land.  Unlike the days of our forefathers there is little open wilderness to pursue these necessities.   I can not see myself becoming a looter.  I have heard depression era survivors, admit stealing bread or some food item to feed their family. Now with loss of so much open land, and the increased population, will there be enough wildlife to  support all of us? There is a group out there referred to as “PREPPERS”.  They tend to stockpile food, guns, ammo, etc..   How long will their stores last?  In a prolonged dollar collapse, they too will be in the same boat as the rest of us.  Personally I do not have the funds available to “prep”.  So I will try to keep my rifles, and shotguns, in good shape, and buy a box of ammunition, when I have a few dollars to spare. (Note to self: invest in real traps, not just the ones I built).  But I doubt I could ever amass enough to last.  (Unlike my teen age hunting buddy, I miss occasionally).  It is not like you could stock up on wild game, you need a freezer or some way to preserve the meat.  Some you could make into Jerky, extending it’s shelf life.  (If you know how to do that the old fashion way, without electricity). Communication:  How will we communicate.  If you are like me I must have the TV on or I can’t sleep.  If for some reason it goes off during my sleep hours, I will awake, and stay awake until it comes back on.  I am sure I will adapt, but not without a struggle.  As a HAM radio operator, I will be able to communicate with other HAMs, until my batteries die.  So I suppose I should look into getting some sort of hand crank generator made to be able to charge my HAM equipment.  Or Better yet,  I need to set up a small solar power system just to keep my batteries charged.  (So you see we do have at least one option to electric power, (as long as the solar batteries last). We all need to prepare ourselves.  I’m not saying I believe anything like such a disaster will happen.  But as Benjamin Franklin said in reference to fire prevention: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.  We need to hone our survival skills.  As a whole I think the AMISH people now have the best chance of survival. Maybe I should look into buying a canoe.???? That Is How I See It. Afterthought: Tools are another thing we should be sure we have on hand.     Views: 114

Minimum Wage Debate (My View)

Do We Need A New National Minimum Wage?? There are arguments  FOR and AGAINST.  Most of you have heard the arguments FOR.  Fast food restaurants, janitorial workers, migrant workers, etc, etc..  (Aside:  Does a sentence ending in an abbreviation need 1 period, or 2;  one for the end of the abbreviation, and one to end a sentence.  If you know please tell me).   I realize these are low paying jobs, with little benefits.  BUT: what about the waitresses , for example.  In the state I live, these people earn about $2-$3, an hour.  The reason for this is the proprietors expect the patrons to pay their help. (TIPS), This is another topic for later. True some waiters/waitresses make big tips.  I was speaking to a WAITER, who works  in our State Capital, near all the Convention Centers, and Athletic Arenas.  This restaurant is well known all across the USA.  The wealthier clients entertain there quite often.  He told me he and his colleagues earn between $60,000.oo and $70,000.oo, in TIPS a year.  But away from there in your average town I have noticed the average tip is about $1.oo per Person.  Therefore you can add that  to the low wage paid and they are still making less than the average fast food server.  In just this instance we have a huge difference in pay.  So you raise the Minimum wage for the small town wait people, to lets say $10.oo an hour.  That sounds good.  Specially to the ones in the big City Fancy Restaurants who are making the $60-70,ooo.oo tips.  (by the way the wait people in our area are required by the management to split their TIPS with the BUSBOY, COOK, DISHWASHER, and I have been told the owner of the establishment in some cases. So a minimum wage raise may help some people, and others even more. But how will this affect the Senior Citizen. The same Citizen who financed the bailouts, by not getting Social Security raises for 2 years running.  When I calculated the money the government saved more than doubled the amount used for the bailout. My friend who was forced into retirement, and lost not only money in his 401k, but was forced to spend it to pay off bills that would have been paid, had he been able to work the next 6 years as had been planned.  (His place of employment closed it’s doors.  Although qualified and able he could not get a job.  Why? AGE.  Not what he was told but the real reason).  Making him rely heavily on Social Security for his needs.  He showed me his check, after working, and paying into Social Security for 45 years his check,  after  the government takes out for his MEDICARE.  Oh yes they take that out of your Social Security check.  Break the remainder down to a40 hour week, then down to per hour. His gross pay is $6.49 an hour.  (Which puts him, I believe, below poverty level.  This before he pays his Supplemental Insurance, which helps pay what Medicare does not.  Plus he has to pay for Eye Care, Dental, and Medicine.  This Supplemental Insurance costs him $150.oo a month, and his insurance agent tells him that will go up effective the first of August.  He tells me this insurance goes up more each year the small raise he gets.  In other words he goes further behind each year. Will he get a raise to even things out in purchasing power.  Well not as long as Obama, is in office. So.  What is my point you ask. Raising the minimum wage will put more money in some people’s pocket.  Business knowing there is more money out there will merely raise their prices, thus negating the raise.  It always happens.  The government will take in more money, via taxes.  People will cheer a Minimum Wage Increase.  What they don’t understand is it is merely a sham.  They won’t be able to live any better. So What Is The Point? T hat  Is How I  See  It. PS:  Sorry if  I rambled on and strayed, but I think you get the idea.   Views: 120

College Campus Basketball Games

Recently it was announced the Rivalry Between INDIANA UNIVERSITY, and their cross river Rival, the UNIVERSITY of  KENTUCKY, will cease to be in the upcoming 2012-2013 Season. What?  Say it  isn’t so.  ……But, alas it is. How did this happen? The way I understand it the University of Kentucky,( AKA, know as the minor league of the NBA), in it’s usual fashion of believing Basketball at UK is a business, only, situation.  They see $$$$ ,(dollar signs), in this long enduring confrontation.  Indiana University doesn’t. Yes folks, it all comes down to money, as so many things do.  The University of Kentucky Wildcats, want to move the games from the home gyms, to an off Campus site which seats, more people, thus, more money to line the schools pockets. Indiana University, says, NO!!!  The way the Hoosiers, of IU look at it is….This is a SCHOOL team.  It should be played on the campuses, to allow all students the opportunity to watch and participate.  By moving to an off Campus arena would require those students to drive or by some other means go arrive at the playing site, and thereby limiting overall school participation by those students who cannot travel. As for me I must take the Hurryin Hoosiers side on this.  It is a school event and should therefore be played on campus.  Yes the extra money would be nice…..but let us not lose sight of  the fact. of which has been lost for some time in College, and some cases High School,  SPORTS  are   intended merely to be an extension of the class room.  There, believe it or not, are things that can only be learned in a sports setting. BUSINESS,or LEARNING experience? That Is How I See It What Do You Think? Take Our Poll [poll id=’1′]   Views: 149

Teach Your Kids to Save Money

A lot of teens today do not understand the value of earning and spending money. They were not taught;  that investing is necessary. Although they may  still be  students. Parents, you play a crucial role in this area. You should be able to teach your kids  how to save money. They should be able to understand the concept of money and investment as early in childhood as possible. This will prepare them to learn money management, as they grow old. Here are some tips on how you can teach your children to save money: 1. Your children should be educated of the meaning of money. Once your children have learned how to count, that is the perfect time for you teach them the real meaning of money. You should be consistent and explain to them in simple ways and do this frequently so that they may be able to remember what you taught them. 2. Always explain to them the value of saving money. Make them understand its importance and how it will impact their life. It is important that you entertain questions from them about money and you should be able to answer them right away. 3. When giving them their allowances. You need to give them their allowances in denominations. Then you can encourage them that they should keep a certain bill for the future. You can motivate them to do this by telling them that the money can be saved and they can buy a new pair of shoes or the toys they want once they are able to save. 4. You can also teach them to work for money. You can start this at your own home. You can pay them fifty cents to one dollar every time they do extra work.  I say extra work, because they should be expected to contribute to the family in some way.  If you pay them for doing their regular chores, they will miss the meaning of family helping each other.   This concept of earning a little “extra” money will make them think that money is something they have worked for and should be spent wisely.   (As a side note, you could always deduct “taxes”.  This will help them learn about how we support our government.  (The “taxes”  can be put into a special fund for their future use). 5. You can teach them to save money by giving them piggy banks where they can put coins and wait until they get full. You can also open bank accounts for them and let them deposit money from their allowance.  I know, I know.  They would never earn enough interest on their money to be able to show them any benefit to a savings account.   But you can take this money and invest it in an IRA like account.  Giving them the chance to learn about stocks, bonds. Mutual Funds, etc.   You should always show them how much they have earned to keep them motivated. Money and saving is not something that is learned by children in one sitting. You should be patient in teaching them and relating the value of money in all of their activities. Children will learn this easily if you are patient and consistent in guiding them and encouraging them in this endeavor.   Views: 391