Think about it...

On TV in the Newspapers and Magazines, the "Financial Experts" OFTEN "blame the Home Owners" being Foreclosed on for:

1) Getting into a Mortgage they could not afford.

2) Getting into a House they could not afford.

3) Getting in to a Bad Mortgage. Such as: "Pay Interest Only", "No Money Down? No Problem!", "Bad Credit? No Problem!"

Only now is Wall Street AND President Bush getting the blame for this mess. Remember that video clip when Bush was on TV saying "...by 2010, Minority Homeowners MUST increase by 5%" (or words to that)?

Clearly Bush Jr. was still not very popular and wanted to do OR is that 'say something' to make himself look good. When I saw the video clip, I had one question: Why did he say "Minority Homeowners MUST increase"?

He will be out of the office in 2009....unless the 2008 voting system gets screwed up.

Leading to MORE Questions: "Minority Homeowners MUST increase"? Not to sound racist...but, what does that mean?  Since when did he care more about 'Minority
Homeowners'? Especially in the same sentence? What happens IF "Minority
Homeowners does NOT increase"?

Any guesses? I would love for one to ask Bush 'what does that mean'?

Come on News Journalists! Put that "Degree in Communication" to REAL Use and ask him "REAL Questions". Not those 'Scripted Questions'.

MY guess: America will look racist when it comes to Homeownership looking more like it's for 'Whites Only'.

Let's say that IS the case.

For me, a 'Minority Homeowner', you have no idea how often Non Blacks give ME that 'YOU own a house?' reaction. (For more on this: Read my 'VERY Disturbing Blog - "The Color Of Money."')

True: Many American's wanted to own a House to call their own. 

Enter the Wall Street Plan to let that happen: "Sub- Prime Mortgage Lenders".

Those "Sub- Prime Mortgage Lenders" came running out of the wood work - thanks again to Bush AND Wall Street.

Many 'Minorities' with Low Income, Poor Credit, No Money to put down...were still led into the scam created by Bush AND Wall Street.

Can you say "Ponzi Scheme"?

Soon after that Video Clip of what Bush Jr. said, "Foreclosures" were making their way into National News. Why? Those monthly interest payments to Sub-prime Mortgage Lenders went up. $1,000 per month, for example, went to $2,500 per month! Those in the Low Income bracket were hit First and HARD. The Foreclosures surged from there.

We saw Wall Street still gain more points in the mean time...until the bottom fell out (CNN's Special: 'Mortgage Meltdown' can tell this better in more detail than I could).

Clearly, we know the "Financial Experts" already knew this. They tried time and time again to put the blame more on those that got suckered into the Sub-Prime Mortgages. And, said less about why Wall Street 'really' kept going down.

By then, Bush Jr. is out of the picture. He said little to nothing about helping those loosing their homes. Meanwhile, "Bear Stearns" got a NICE bailout?

The "Financial Experts" often said '...the Home buyer got into mortgages they could not afford'. Did they say why it happened? They did not say enough of why it happened.

They ARE "Financial Experts". Right?

I'm not a "Financial Expert" but, I pay much attention to the news. Did you?

I noticed the "Financial Experts" RARELY blamed 'just one more party' that obviously FEW of them will ever Blame: The Employer!

Did you see THAT?

Yes. The Employer RARELY gets the blame!

You gotta ask yourself: Why do the "Financial Experts" RARELY speak of them? They do not want to face being incriminated themselves. Think 'Implication'. So they try to steer away from that...in hopes no one will catch it.

Or fall into a sink hole. But this is no ordinary Sink Hole...

No one wants to go down there...people just walk around it. Are you fearful to look?

What's the problem? It's a Sink Hole and too many 'capable people' don't want to go down there?

OK. Come on. You know it's true about the Employer.

Just because you land a job that pays well enough to buy a house...sooner or later THAT employer may look at you...correction... "WILL look at you" and say "we are trying to save money...no raise for you". The 'no raise' can go on for months or years.

The words "Don't touch my paycheck!" will be respected by SOME Employers. As for the rest of us, the employer will just 'smirk'.

This year "Home Depot" announced they are closing 15 Underperforming stores. Google for more information.

January 2007 was this:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/01/03/AR2007010300553.html

Think about those mergers, too.

1) NEVER believe every employees job is secure after two companies merge.

2) NEVER believe the PR Person when said "Everyone's job is safe" or words to that to make it sound like 'no one will get terminated.'

Imagine how I felt when a guy in a bussiness suit showed up at MY job to tell me "...you have been locked out. Gather your things and leave the building. I will escort you out." HE earned more money than ME!! Since that day in June 2002, I rarely trust people in Business suits!

It seems many don't say much to people in Bussiness Suits. It's 90 degress out side. Do people stare at the Suits? Hardly! Why? Perhaps the Suit IS a CEO and no one will look "out of fear".

Think "CEO! Don't look at them! Don't look at them! They may fire you!

How do you feel about seeing someone in a Bussiness Suit? Knowing the person personally IS one thing. If the person is a total stranger, I'm asking myself: HEY! How many people did you send Foreclosure Notices to? How many employees did you layoff? Deny raises to? Approve raises to (though there are those that DON'T deserve it)?

As is the situation for my Fulltime job - 'no raise for months' became "no raise for years". In fact, I saw my wage go down more and more. The CEO is laughing - in private - at my daily struggle to make ends meet.

And I thought I will have the job for a solid 30 years or more with no Financial Troubles...EVER!

Many employers know they can save money and pull stunts by pushing people out BEFORE they can save enough to retire or are about to retire. Again, the CEO (that authorized such action) is laughing...in private.

Are you READING this AMC/Loews?

No wonder many people leaving the USA for Europe seem to love it and want to stay there in Europe. Why? Most of the Government Body there got it right!

America. THE Greatest Country On The Planet?

You would think -

A) "Get another job."

Still looking. 

B) "Get a second job."

I have that, too.

C) "You must be doing something wrong if you are still not getting paid enough."

Interesting. No one can tell me what it is I am "doing wrong".

D) "You have just got to go to the employer with the attitude you will get the job."

Really? They will look at me as if I am high on drugs or something. No wonder I can't get a Girlfriend, either.

See "C", again, for the "same typical response".

If 'a','b','c' or 'd' were 'Irrelevant'. You would ask "Did you ask for a raise?"

Um...Yeah! Many times (at my Fulltime Job). I do that extra effort just so it looks good on me, too. As the Corporate Thugs look to 'save money'...you can go the extra effort to look good to them for the 'extra work you do'. Careful! The Corporate Thugs may just see you as 'Cheap Labor'.

Optional: See "C", again, for the "typical response".

Let's not forget...just because (in my situation) I have worked the same trade for years does NOT mean I will get paid more money based on experience, elsewhere. In fact, many emlpoyers ARE reluctant to pay more money to someone applying to a new opening at their company.  And...they may look for cheap labor. It's as simple as...

Employer: "How much are you getting now?"

And you tell them. You know it is low...but you tell them 'the Truth'. You expect them to feel sorry for you and pay more. Especially if you know that the job you are after IS Double in pay (for example) than what you get from your current employer.

Guess what? This CAN go both ways. Some employers WILL feel sorry for you and pay you more. It happened to me once. But the job was not for me anymore. I know I am not the only one that has said it. That was a time when many could say that...but not anymore and not as often?

I know many lucky people that broke out of the LOW Pay Bracket. Most of them are Immigrants. Most of them are Non Black.

An Immigrant in a High Income Bracket? 2 Possibilities.

1) Light Skin Color. A known fact.

2) The company wants to pull a fast one and say "This is one one of the Jobs Americans will not do."

Really? I have applied to that job...more than once. I have sent a resume 'in confidence' as requested. No repsonse.

Later, the listing appears again. You will re-apply.   STILL no response.  Sound familiar? It's funny how "Affirmative Action" can 'backfire'/'raise it's ugly head'.

As for other employers (We KNOW who they are), you can read their minds: "You make $8.00 an hour and you want to work for us to make more?"

Typically, the employer is afraid to hire you because they feel you will not earn enough from THEM and you will dump THEM for a better paying job that comes along.

If that's true, those same employers should tell the truth about 'Competitive Wages' with their "Now Hiring/Join Our Team" postings.

Watch closely. When a new place opens up such as a "High End" Shopping Mall. Do you ever 'expect' the pay to be $18 an hour? $20 an hour?

Surprise! It's far less. Such as $8 to $10 an hour! Only those in "upper management" will get the BIGGER bucks. So, the next time you fill out a job application for a job set to open soon, NEVER expect to get paid much more that $10 an hour. A manager may get slightly more. Salaried! But the hours ARE long.

Still expect to earn enough to save for a house when you get that new job, now? Better not get your hopes up. Just keep the words 'Competitive Wages' in mind. You will be surprised what the pay REALLY is. The difference in wage may be no more than a nickel. Annual raise no more than $1 to $2 dollars per year.

Interesting. It would NEVER do with a CEO when it comes to 'competitive pay'!

The CEO and those like them see as much as $10,000 AND more for an annual raise!

Those below that rank, $1 to $2 dollars per year annual raise.

Ever notice that? "The Old Boys Network" has never changed. And, it may NOT be just CEO status, either. Factor in "skin color".

Ever notice the CEO (often a white male) - after getting a Golden Handshake/Parachute - gets a BIGGER house to move into OR build? BOTH?

An In Your Face Question: Why IS a CEO NEVER EVER approached by a 'Collection Agent/Debt Collector'?

Ever notice the 'Collection Agent/Debt Collector' would rather come after YOU for money owed...instead of going after your (former) Employer (that dropped you and never bothered to give YOU a 'Golden Handshake/Parachute')?

- Just because the Stock Market closed up for that week or month or YEAR...does NOT mean my job (or anyone else's for that matter) will give the long Overdue raise. The CEO's will get it in the form of a Bonus...Weekly, Monthly and/or Yearly.

- Just because the company gained profit after laying people off and sparing my job from getting cut...does not mean I will get a raise. I just do the work of two people (like it or not) and still get paid the same as if my duty is ONE thing -  not two.

Let's cut to the chase. If you were in a similar situation...How fast do you get a new job? Is the pay higher or the same when you get it? Is a car required? On Public Transit? Nearby or further away? How long do you keep it? Can you save for retirement at this job? Working hours good?

Did a Temp Agency such as "Aerotek" take their time to return your call when you enquired about a temp job of interest you applied to...only to be told (after several calls left on their voice mail) by a REAL person who finally answers the phone: "The Job Is Already Filled"? BEEN THERE, TOO!

How long until the position you just got gets "outsourced" (for cheaper wage/labor in another country) or given to an Immigrant for low wage like that last one you lost?

Don't forget, that CEO got a Bonus. You and your new co-workers got directions to the nearest unemployment office, again.

'Refinancing' IS a problem. One can try to apply for a low rate and only be told "You don't qualify." "You must do this or that to qualify. " Now it gets more messy for those trying to keep thier home....when 'trying to qualify'.

Don't qualify?

Good luck when you "still" don't see a raise at work and not get a LUCKY break when playing the lottory...while trying to refinance.

Do you owe on the equity bill, too?

So many questions! So many problems!

Again, Skin Color!

DON'T forget the Skin Color! Remember, many 'American' jobs looking to hire can still decide who to hire and fire based on race. It's not always easy to prove, however. 

Pay Scale can be just as Discriminatory on Sex as well. Is the Male or Female paid more or the same? Too often...the Female is still paid less than the Male. Factor in "Skin Color", again.

Remember Bank Of America" when they made news claiming they paid out too much money in serverence pay and wanted those "laid off employees" to pay some of it back? All of it back? Any guesses to how many 'FORMER Emplyees' owning a home used that severence pay to help pay for the mortgage on their home?

Did the same thing happen to the other CEO? Nope.

Remember Xerox fired off a round of layoffs during the Christmas Season years ago?

Or this! Radio Shack sent out Layoff Notices in the form of an Email?

Ford Motor Company? General Motors?

Verizon! Can you hear me NOW?

There are Airlines having their planes Outsourced outside America! For what? Maintenance! Translation: Airline Mechanics Jobs in America are not in demand. Airline Mechanics Jobs OUTSIDE America such as China ARE in Demand.

Just think all of those American 'Hourly Wage Jobs' are shrinking here and are going to low wage countries.

What's Boeing REALLY doing about keeping jobs in America?

How many Hourly Wage American Workers owned their own Home? How many WERE saving to buy one?

Remember when thousands of flights got cancelled in the name of 'inspecting' planes? Delta? American Airlines?

You, the customer lost income being stranded somewhere...while planes got serviced.

Let's not get off topic...but you gotta wonder: Who got compensated for loss in income?

How many of those planes were inspected here IN America? Was the pay good? Was the Technician spared another month or two of struggling?

How long until those airlines will stick it to you with inflated Airfares to pay for all of that revenue they lost - while the CEO never ever took a pay cut?

Hey! JetBlue! I did not expect you to offer me $11 an hour to "multi-task duties" such as sell tickets, guide planes in to the gate, fuel, clean then push planes from the gate - after all of that servicing (including 'de-icing' in Winter, of course) - with that Tractor. I expected $15 to $18 an hour just to start!

Yes, I DID tell my freinds of the job and the pay just as your female recruiter suggested. My friends declined the low paying job. They can't save for a house at that wage, either!

The skies just don't look 'friendly' anymore...

Watch American jobs in the airline industry shrink here but grow outside America. That CEO will just get another Bonus...while more American Workers paid by the hour get screwed to the Unemployment/ Low Wage Jobs Line.

In Boston, American Airlines is banning tips. The story:

http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2008/05/01/american_airlines_to_end_tips_for_boston_skycaps/

The ban may have been lifted...but the story - with others like it - will be a part of history. Forever.

So, remember: Foreclosure? Don't just blame the Buyer/Mortgage Lender...blame the Employer.

Also, don't forget to read my VERY Disturbing Blog "The Color Of Money" about the 'reaction/response I get' from mostly Non Blacks about MY being a 'Minority Homeowner'.

Having read "the original", there had to be 'a little more', right?

TRUE. The Employer IS to blame when you face "Foreclosure". But the blame ALSO goes to the Banks AND The Government!

Are you reading this House Speaker Nancy Pelosi? Alan Greenspan?

As the news reports record high foreclosures across the country, Banks & Debt Collectors are out for blood. The 'American' Congress just sits and does nothing but create more jobs in the Foreclosure Real Estate Market. And then take another vacation.

On "Larry King Live", there have been guests  - Experts in this market - giving advice to those facing 'Foreclosure'. Basically the guests are saying "...just give up your home and leave. We don't care if you hated living in an apartment. If your superiors did not give you a decent raise...that's YOUR problem. WE have money. WE worked for it".

How many struggling "American" Homeowners will welcome THOSE words of advice: Just leave?

Especially so, that's 'from guests (on the program) WITH steady income' (no doubt) and 'expecting to buy real estate in less than a year' or words to that?

Here's how I feel about that: Great! More 'financially secure folks' going on TV telling the American people "YOU are screwed...we are not!"

For those of you that know the drill of buying a house...there were all of those forms to fill out. Sign. Sign. Sign.

In signing those forms, do you remember being asked/writing down 'what you do for work'? Perhaps '...income? How long have you worked there?' For the most part, I sure do!

Simple. Harmless questions. Right?

I don't remember signing a form with the words "Here is what the bank does so you can still keep your home when you fall behind on payments due to unforseen difficulties with your Employer. 'Never fear Foreclosure'."

Did YOU sign such a form? o_O

Presently, the bank comes after YOU!

Every late payment reminder letter/notice arriving in your mailbox is very much like a bunch of angry faced people in Bussiness Suits circling you like Buzzards...ready to 'pick apart' their next victim: You!

Why does the bank NOT bring the Employer in to this, too? And not just YOU?

WHY is there no "Safety Net" for the Homebuyer "in case the Employer IS doing a poor job at giving raises, goes under or something"?

Bear Sterns, remember them? They got a Safety Net! The "fannie mae freddie mac bailout", Safety Net! 

What about the Homeowner? Where is THEIR 'Safety Net'?

When your employer(s) will not care, the CEO's are off to the side laughing and partying all weekend. Why are they not held to some accountability? YOU work(ed) for them!

The only accountability the employer presantly has for you: Unemployment!

Now, when you are at the bank to face the music: Increased heart rate. Fluxing body temperature. Dry throat?

Why does the Bank not do a follow up on the employer if the Homebuyer is falling behind? 

A friendly & helpful bank? HA!

The current system leaves Homeownership unfriendly and heartbreaking!

If there were a better system enacted by the "American Government" DECADES ago...working with the bank, the answer should be 'yes, friendly and helpful'.

But it is NOT!

Sure, you sign those papers...you sign them in confidence. You DON'T want to loose your biggest investment. Yeah, I DID see myself living there until I am old and grey!

Did you expect to live in yours until you are old and grey?

Sadly, in this day and age, we have come to know it does not work out for that many. Throw in a failed marriage/relationship, it is just as bad.

No Safety Net for that, either.

The CEO Homies I work for did not up my income. The Bank KNOWS and will not care.

As many of you can relate, the bank will just look at you with that "it's your fault" look on thier face.

Really? Our fault? Let's get this straight. We - the Home buyer - played by the rules to buy a house/Condo. First, go to school for an education. Second, learn as much as possible in school AND on the job for an impressive resume.

The better the resume...the better the income expected. Right?

BUZZ! It's not for everyone! Yes. It worked for those guests on shows like "Larry King Live".

Remember? "...YOU are screwed...we are not!"

Also, you may remember the words "factor in skin color" in my "original" posting on this subject of 'Foreclosure'. Those same guests on "Larry King Live" (expecting to purchase Real Estate in the next few months to a year): White.

A LIVE feed interview with a small family in Florida: White. A woman working with them to help them keep their home: Black.

When you own a house/condominimum, you want to feel more confident your job will keep you and not "just blow you off" and you loose your home.

You expect decent raises just as your superiors get them. You don't expect a Layoff or Paycut. You expect 'job security'. Retirement. A Pension.

You expect a bonus for going that extra mile at work, right? Of course you deserve it.

When American Jobs get Outsourced, WHERE is the accountability in that?

How valuable is the education & resume going to be now?

WHERE is The Safety Net?

I know. I know. For the Government to impliment such a "Safety Net", it will take months.
 
WRONG! The "Safety Net" should have been implimented Decades ago!

Let's be careful here. Remember your American History? Banks were reluctant to give loans to Blacks and other Minorities in the 1960's and back. Even if they have had the income...banks still said no.

Get the feeling Banks are still at it today?

Housing discrimination never should have happened in this country.

Native American Indians got the worst of it centuries ago.

Yes my Overseas Friends, our Founding Fathers/Leaders were VERY brutal.

Had this land NOT been taken from the Native American Indians by force, "Foreclosure" would not have been such a serious problem ignored by America's leaders of today!

"Foreclosure" could have been just 'a blip'. It's more of a Tidal Wave now.

The SAME process of a 'Safety Net' should apply for housing loss in ANY form. Job loss in ANY form.
 
It's the 21st Century. With Unemployment, Layoff, Termination or Outsourcing, WHY has a system using "ID Smart Cards" instead of forms in triplicate to fill out not been put in place instead?
 
America. The Greatest Country On The Planet?
 
I'm tired of hearing 'Hard Core Americans' say: "This is the land of opportunity. You gotta work for it." Or "Just leave! Go live somewhere else!"
 
Interesting! I'm just one person with an idea with no problem for someone to take it and say it can be done. In this land of opportunity I'm sure there is more than one person that would agree with me (if a comment has been posted - and the account is still active, of course).

America. The Greatest Country On The Planet?

I have asked that question many times. Have you?

Do you REALLY expect Barack Obama or John McCain to solve the growing Forclosure Problem?

THESE two Guys have a BETTER Plan!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4TWap5YMZ8c

Who will YOU vote for?

Here is my comment, word for word, on that VERY Video:

"Forclosure?

Blame elected leaders we voted for. Blame the CEO's that cut/outsource American Jobs in exchange for BIG Bonuses!

I refuse to blame foreclosures on the HomeBuyers.

Think about it. Did they REALLY buy a house/get a Mortgage they could NOT afford? Get sub-prime duped? Did anyone think companies paying enough to buy a house CAN turn around and cut jobs? Cut pay? CUT Overtime?

I BELIEVE that's exactly what's happened.

Remember the Overtime Law Bush struck down in 2004?"

Want to see more?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ek3jAkx9m10

John McCain's 2005 Home

http://www.architecturaldigest.com/homes/features/archive/mccain_slideshow_072005?showall=true

Let me get this straight.

Senator Ted Kennedy had a siezure at his Cape Cod Home in June 2008. He is flown by Air Ambulance to MGH - Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.

After ALL of those tests...it cost him NOTHING!

He got the needed surgery at another hospital days after his ordeal began.

Well wishers...THOUSANDS of them, bid Senator Kennedy a speedy recovery.

Success. And again, it cost him NOTHING!

Kennedy goes home to get rest and spend time with the family.

Now, let's say a Cashier making "Minimum Wage" has the same attack...but, like Kennedy, the victim has a siezure at home. The ambulance comes. There is a FEE for that service.

The hospital runs the tests. $$$$ Treatment for the victim just as Kennedy got treated is $$$$$$. The victim NEEDS the treatment but the Minimum Wage earner CANNOT afford it.

Let's say the bill for the tests came to about the same amount as the TOTAL Cost of what Kennedy got. The Minimum Wage Cashier now has a VERY huge Hospital Bill.

Just a minute...did the Cashier VOTE for Ten Kennedy last time? Yeah.

Why? Because the Minimum Wage earning Cashier 'believed' Kennedy would work for those that are struggling to get by. To make the lives of other Minimum Wage earners everywhere feel better.

Excuse me? There IS a Doctor Bill the Cashier earning MINIMUM WAGE is expected to pay!

At the presant income of Minimum Wage it will take YEARS to pay...unless 1 of 2 things happens. 1 - A Winning Lottery Ticket - FAT Chance for anyone.

2 - FREE Healthcare! YEAH! That's what ALL Americans Deserve. FREE Healthcare.

I know what you are thinking: Health Insurance. Or even Subsidies to help pay for it. Help Pay for it? Why not FREE Care instead? Kennedy got it for FREE. Are we not so important?

I thought about that commercial where the guy says (to the words of) "...over $2 Million in coverage for just $100 per month." Yeah...you know the commercial. THAT got me thinking "So...what do I get for just $99.99 per month? Or better yet, $1.00 Per Month?"

Do you know how often these "Insurance Companies" work to "deny" claims they say they can 'cover' most services? While you are paying so much per month...claim denied, you wind up paying for that bill out of YOUR Pocket.

Add to that, those "Rip-off co-pays" per doctor visit.

Did Senator Kennedy REALLY have to deal with ANY of that? NO! Do you want what he has for FREE Care? I KNOW I would say "yes"!

So...while Senator Kennedy is chillin' at home with family with no Medical Bills to ever speak of, the Minimum Wage earning Cashier has to pay the Medical Bills.

Senator Kennedy will get Doctor visits with NO Co-pays! He will get his prescriptions for FREE and without a hassle. The Minimum Wage Earning Cashier has to deal with Co-Pays for doctor visits. Pay for prescriptions...which could alone last for many, many months.

HEY! Don't forget that Ambulance ride to the hospital! THEY send bills, too! Don't expect the Ambulance bill to be quite so big. The Cashier used 'Ground Transportation' to get to the Hospital. Air Travel is much higher. I don't believe there would have been a charge for carrying personal belongings in the 'Air Ambulance', do you?

Anyway, the Minimum Wage Cashier is NOT going to be able to chill at home with the Homies.

No. No. No.

The Minimum Wage Cashier is going to have to get back to work ASAP to start paying off that medical bill. When the payment is too slow in coming...the hospital Collection Agents will send "Love Letters".

Gee, Senator Kennedy NEVER EVER had to deal with THAT.

Senator Kennedy works hard to make our lives better?

HE supported the bill FOR 'Massachusetts Mandatory Healthcare Reform Law'! The end result - Former Governor Mitt Romney signed it into a law. Now sitting Governor Duval Patrick carries the torch happily saying: "Seeing you live in Massachusetts...you must buy Health Insurance - OR Else!"

Health Insurance NEVER pays 100% of the Medical Bill!

And those "Good thing he's got Health Insurance" ads you see on busses and trains are so misleading! Remember: 'Health Insurance' NEVER pays 100% of the Medical Bill!

Governor Duval Patrick, Senator Kennedy and Former Governor Mitt Romney would NEVER tell you that. Why? Ask THEM! Here it is an Election Year. What HAVE Barack Obama and John McCain said of FREE Healthcare for ALL American's? NOTHING to this date.

I keep thinking about something Barack Obama said sometime last year. In his ads on Radio and Television, Barack is heard saying how it was difficult for his Mom to get the care she needed when he was a little boy. His Mom could NOT afford to pay those Doctor Bills.

Now, Barack is a Senator. He HAS 100% FREE Care.

He is running for President of the United States. He STILL has 100% Free Care!
Yet, he STILL hits us with 'buzz words' such as "Health Insurance" & "Subsidies". "Buy it to get covered...". "Buy what you can afford" is more like what Barack is telling us to sell his Voters to the Corporate Thugs of the Health Insurance industry.

You read right: He's expecting Americans to "buy" that stuff! American jobs are disappearing left, right and center. Wages ARE shrinking. How do we 'buy' that stuff? A Better Question: WHY do we have to "buy Health Insurance"?

Will that cover the need for Nursing Home Care? Or, does one have to buy "Health Insurance" for THAT, too?

WHY is he not taking a hint from what his mother went through when he was little?
He can then use BETTER 'Buzz Words' "Free Care For ALL Americans", "...regardless of Income, you ARE 100% covered.", "...Federal Law: Free Care For ALL Americans".

A friend of mine commented 'Corporate Backers would never support him if he promised such a system...'. Those Corporate Thugs worry too much about money!

Still, I hope average people Barack Obama speaks with while touring America to run for President will grill him and ASK: WHY are you getting it for FREE and you expect us to buy Health Insurance?   Don't forget the waitress in New Hampshire back in 2007 grilling Mitt Romney. When he said he would spend $5 Million to help Africa with their health system, She spoke up asking "What about us...?" Mitt Romney had no answer at that point!   Get the picture? SHE nailed him! He never brought it up again. And bailed OUT of the campaign weeks later. Still, he's looking to be Vice President!?

Yet, the news said time and again how hard Senator Kennedy fought for Americans to get Healthcare.

Ted Kennedy is NOT fighting for ME. Ted Kennedy is NOT fighting for YOU! He's NOT fighting for some American going through the same ordeal HE went through!

Think about it!

I wonder what do the THOUSANDS of "Well Wishers for Senator Kennedy to have a speedy recovery" have to say now?  

Still, Ralph Nader IS doing the right thing to throw his hat into the ring!

Think Outside The Box!

Are you happy with the current Healthcare America has for you?

Again, Think Outside The Box. Brace yourself....

I looked back at an old thread "Health care is a right", I responded to on "current.com" in February 2008.

It began with this from Brigid2157:

"No parent should have to decide between buying food or buying medicine for a child. What kind of nation asks a parent to make such a decision? It's shameful. Period."  

My Response: "I agree. The current system is no good. No one should buy Health Insurance.  Period.

The Healthcare the President of the USA gets is paid for by our Tax Dollars. Ever since I became aware the president and other 'elected leaders' get it for free...I asked myself 'Why do THEY get it for FREE and we have to pay for it'?

Remember "The Flintstones" episode (when 'Pebbles' is born) when a guy is seen whining down the corridor 'The pain! The pain!' When Fred asked about him, the receptionist responded "He got the Doctors Bill".

It used to be funny then. But today, in the 21st Century, it is NOT funny at all!

I seem to remember asking "why is the care not FREE?" Even though it is just a cartoon?  
Enter Jawnybnsc:  

"FREE Healthcare?!!!

FREE?!!!

While you're whippin' up that next latte, Mr. ModelTrainGuy, dreaming about how you're going to spend that nice tax refund you're sure to get and all the nice things that Uncle Sam's Gravy Train is going to bring you . . . remember that there are people out here who are paying for your ride. People like me who build and grow businesses and who send FAT TAX CHECKS to Uncle Sam EVERY QUARTER. People who provide jobs for people like you who pay NO TAXES while complaining that the government just isn't doing enough for you.

FREE?!!! Hardly!!! "  

Jawnybnsc responded to one named 'Spoon'   "spoon,

You can talk about the census and uninsured numbers all you want. The plain truth of the matter is that many of the uninsured are voluntarily uninsured. When given a choice between weekends club hopping and paying for health insurance, many of your uninsured will be found gettin' their drink on at the club."  

My Response:   "Thanks for the reply. But you have it all wrong about me.

I am not getting a ride. I hold two jobs and still earn below $30,000 annually. You must think I get financial assistance, too. No. I NEVER asked for it.

You must think I have never asked for a raise. I have. I never got one. You must think I should get a new job at higher pay. I have searched. I get "The most we can pay you is $9.00 an hour." But I get $12.00 and no raise in 8 years. You must think I am doing something wrong' when I job search.

I did do something wrong. I stayed in school to get an education. I speak 'proper English'. I went to college to continue my education. I learned as many job skills as possible...for an impressive resume.

I will tell you, and not to get off topic, that Tax Rebate plan will NOT work. I will NEVER get such a check (After I filed my taxes, I was told I do get a check. It spared me for ONE Week before going broke. Again.).

Free Health Care. You sound like you are against it. Let me ask you a few questions:

1) How do you feel about former First Lady Nancy Reagan having a fall at home and her Medical Bills are automatically paid for by OUR Tax Dollars?

2) How would you feel if one of your elderly family members had a fall at home. Would THEY get the same coverage? No. Some of that medical bill will get paid for but guess who has to pay the rest? YOU!

3) Do you like the coverage you have?

4) Would you rather have the same FREE Care all US Presidents have? How about Mayors, Governors and their families (children, for example)?

5) If you have kids (I have none and I am not ashamed to say I am glad I have none)

6) Did you know buying insurance NEVER pays 100% of the medical bill? Sure you can 'buy insurance'. The insurance pays for some of the bill. But you - yes YOU - will have to pay the rest.

Think about it: You pay $1,000 Annually for insurance. You get a medical bill for $10,000. YOUR insurance plan covers $2,000 of it. YOU pay the rest out of YOUR pocket. Why? Because Insurance Companies look for ways to SAVE Money. That means your claim is DENIED.

7) Where does the savings go? To the Greedy CEO as a 'Year End Bonus'. Meanwhile, you are dealing with what to pay for while paying for a Medical Bill that should have been paid for 100% by YOUR insurance provider.

8) So are you happy with the current plan of paying for the rest of the bill yourself?

9) Would you rather get Healthcare for FREE or pay for it? Remember, insurance NEVER pays it in full. It is either partial pay or 'Denied' (you pay the entire bill).

10) Notice the President of the United States NEVER seems to worry about his medical bills?

11) How would you feel if the president got treated for the same illness you have...but the president got it for FREE? Meanwhile, you are at home in need of treatment but you don't have the money for it.

12) How do you feel about the news reporting "The president is resting after his operation." And you cannot rest after yours...you have to get to work or lose your coverage. Or get taxed every month for NOT having it?

13) Having read all of this, do you really think I have it easy and you don't?

14) Have you written to your Congressman/Woman to complain? I DID!

I have it easy? Think again."  

Jawnybnsc:  

"Dude . . . you're totally missing the point.

1) The healthcare that you keep saying is FREE is not FREE. It will be paid for by taxpayers like me. I wasn't talking about the rebate. I was talking about the fact that at your income level, you don't pay very much, if anything, in taxes and you get a rebate every year. As a business owner and someone who is self-employed, it is I who will pay for your "FREE" healthcare. I don't expect any thanks, just acknowledge the fact that your "FREE" healthcare is paid for by someone else.

2) None of this is meant to disparage your job situation in any way. You're working and doing what you can. I have no problem with that. The fact remains . . . you are NOT a taxpayer. That said, you seem to expect a lot from your government, while very little is required from you.

That is the problem with our system and with giving more of our economy, money and power over to government control. It pits people like me against you. In the competition for resources in this redistributionist system, my loss is your gain. It's not right, but it is a natural consequence of this slide toward socialism we're on.

I am very happy with my plan. I save money and when I need to pay for medical care, I pay for it myself. I am covered for catastrophic care, which is exactly what insurance should pay. Nothing more. Those that can pay, should pay. You want to reduce costs? Make individuals responsible for their healthcare costs. Return to a free market system and stop demanding that someone else provide for you what you should be willing to provide for yourself."  

My response:   "

I am aware Tax Dollars pay for the Free Healthcare people are asking/demanding.

To be clear: I am 6th Generation Black American. Blacks ARE and have been Socially/Financially Oppressed for decades. Only a SMALL Percentage of Blacks are not. So, say what you will about that.

You said: "I am very happy with my plan. I save money and when I need to pay for medical care, I pay for it myself. I am covered for catastrophic care, which is exactly what insurance should pay. Nothing more."

Agreed. Your coverage should pay for your medical bills. You are fine with that.
Not every one can afford the plan you have. I stand with them.

You also said: "Those that can pay, should pay. You want to reduce costs? Make individuals responsible for their healthcare costs. Return to a free market system and stop demanding that someone else provide for you what you should be willing to provide for yourself."

That said, I don't smoke, drink or do drugs. But still, people can get sick no matter what they do to stay healthy.

How do I take care of my health if I am in the same building living with smokers below me. You think I can 'just move'? You think I can just tell them 'please don't smoke'?

On our Transit System in Boston, the no smoking laws are ignored. Transit employees will smoke on the train.

Cough! Cough! I cannot afford a car to avoid the smokers. Car pool? HA! None of my colleagues live close enough to give me a ride. And, too many of them just think of themselves and their car. In other words, if I were to seek a ride home...NONE will be generous to say "I can give you a ride to the station".

I KNOW who my friends are...and they are NOT what I call 'friends'.   Flu Shots for this year - 2008 - rattled a lot of nerves. You must have heard the Flu Shots people got this year are not as effective. Perhaps you never got a flu shot? That's fine. There are those that must have a Flu Shot and I respect that.

When I heard the Flu Shots are not as effective, I got to thinking..."How many people got Flu Shots? How much did they pay?" I then got to thinking: "The Government SHOULD pay for our Healthcare." Here is why: Those defective products, for example, such as food and other consumer goods being let into this country that contain 'lead' and other dangerous chemicals can make people sick. Right? Why would the Government ''allow" those products in? People are put in danger because our Government will NOT, repeat "NOT" do more to strengthen to make our borders safer.

Sure. There are inspectors to do that. Where are they? There are not enough of them. I would apply for a position. There are no port inspector jobs that I know of here in Boston.

NAFTA creating jobs? I don't think so.

Do you really think the country that sent us their goods will care what is in their exports? Would you care about what you bought off the shelf? What about Immigrants working for you - if any? Were they quarantined?

Sure, there was a just a cough. Would it concern you?

Should you be concerned? Do you like the idea of Illegal Immigrants coming here to get Healthcare at the expense of Tax Payers? Think of the many women arriving here 'Pregnant' at the right moment to give birth. Tax Money pays for that.

Why would OUR Government do little to protect its citizens? Immigrants are coming in with who knows what for a nasty bug. And the border rules are not so strict (think about the two border guards on the US/Mexican Border put in prison for 'doing their job' last year).

OK, you don't want the government involved for looking out for the American People? Not strengthening our Borders? Fine. Let more items enter this country uninspected - though they were shipped as safe, they could have been tampered in some way during shipping - and NOT inspected upon arrival at our ports. Let Immigrants with potential health problems in without cause for quarantine.

Did you see the movie "SiCKO"?

Other countries with a better system are laughing at us.

You are right. I should leave. Would you pay for ALL of my moving expenses? Think of the investment you will make. After all, you are self-employed...and you are tired of the American Government looking after us, when many people can't look after themselves and it is NOT their fault."  

Jawnybnsc:  

"My head is spinning there my friend. So many strawmen and red herring . . . how to address them all? You know what . . . take it . . . I'll just pass and wait for my next unwitting victim."  

Marilynn_Murray responded:  

"Health Care Is A Right. You bet it is. Take a look at Dennis Kucinich's plan. True Universal Health Care. http://current.com/items/88850559_this_is_the_universal_heath_care_plan_we_need  

(I looked at the link. Fascinating!)  

END!
 
OK People. WHO will you vote for? Obama? McCain? Nader?   Which one WILL give us the BEST Healthcare Plan?

Think for a moment! I remember less than a few weeks ago, Barack said (at one of his campaign stops) on Television to the words of" ...by the end of my First Term" Americans will have Health Coverage!   MANY Cheered! There was also what "sounded like" jeering from some in the crowd. It's as if THOSE heard 'jeering', realized what he just said!   "WHAT?! It's going to TAKE another 4 years of waiting to do that?!"  

WAKE UP, America!
 
 THAT'S NOT 'change'. That's the same SLOW business as usual coming from The White House!   You remember when Senator Clinton was First Lady? Need I remind you, she DID mention "Universal Healthcare" for Americans. Then 'someone in the White House' told her to "keep quiet".   

THAT was over 15 years ago! Do YOU really want to wait another 4 years?  

WHY has no one asked Barack: Why not do it sooner? Say 'On DAY 1 of your Administration' you sign into FEDERAL LAW: Free Healthcare for ALL Americans. Including those 'Ambulance Fees!' Regardless of Income/Employment!   Imagine Barack saying THAT on National Television! Why did he not say it? Simple! The Corporate support him.  

If he had said THOSE very words, the Corporate will dump him on the spot. He NEEDS them more than your support.  

Think about it! He LOVES the cheering from you. He LOVES the support from the Corporate.  

It's the VERY same reason with John McCain...the corporate.  

And, that's why many People never liked Ralph Nader. The Corporate hate him. He wont let The Corporate control American Government.  

America. THE Greatest Country On The Planet?

We ALL love music of some kind. Right?

Here is my take. I LOVE Movie Soundtracks.

Recently, I saw "The Dark Knight".

After seeing the first one, "Batman Begins"  I HAD to buy the Movie Soundtrack to that movie! I think of the music as a "Turbo Charged Symphony".
 
The amazing thing about that was when riding the subway train, the timing could be "perfect" when 'Molossus' (CD track 10) begins to play. About 8:48 to 8:52AM the Acela Express is seen zipping past my (subway) train at ground level!

That music track and seeing the Acela Express would often remind me of the Monorail Scene in the movie. It was always fun to manage to time the CD just right...even if the Subway Train is running late or a tad early exiting the tunnel.

Having heard "Batman Begins" so often since 2006, I could not wait for the next one "The Dark Knight". When the movie was set to come out, I would wait to see the movie first.

It was quite easy for me to do! When I went in to see the movie...I could not wait to hear the music IN the movie! After sitting through the movie for 2 hours 32 minutes and about 15 seconds...I could NOT wait to get the Movie Soundtrack!!

I got it as a gift! WOW! O_O The music in "The Dark Knight" just blew me away!

I think of it as a "Turbo Charged Symphony - with a Turbo Boost (on a couple of tracks)"

Suggestion: Headphones in a VERY Quiet room. That's all I can tell you.

"Batman Begins" & "The Dark Knight", soundtracks. I LOVE Them Both!

Other movie Soundtracks I have (and recommend):

"The Incredibles" (Multi-award winner!) - The music just jumped out at me! Interestingly enough...I thought of it as "required listening" The short of it: If you ever had trouble understanding/following the music beat in music class, the music in the End Credits reminded me it's easy to understand.
 
"Eragon" (check out 'Battle For Varden'!'), "The Shadow", "Koyaanisqatsi"  all 6 "Star Wars" Soundtracks.

Ever listen to the music in "Transformers" (the Summer HIT Movie for 2007) - now that it is on (ahem) "DVD"? Focus just on the music next time. Trust me. ^_^

(I THOUGHT I posted this. While searching for a blog, I realized I did NOT post it. Posted from another site in August 2007.)

I'm riding the Bus on my way home from work, one evening. I'm working at a museum at the time. And Museum Employees don't get paid much.

Anyway...the bus ride is fine, as usual.

"Rear Door!" shouted a passenger when wanting to get off the bus at the Bus Stop. When the passenger was clear after getting  off the bus, the bus driver (Hispanic) attempted to close the doors.

The Front Doors closed. But the Rear Doors did not. The bus does NOT move with the Rear Doors open (the brakes release when the rear doors are closed - it's a 'Safety Feature' those busses had). After several tries to close the doors, the Bus Driver said '...everyone off the bus.'

I was among the last to get off the bus. I told the Bus Driver to '...shut off the air supply to the doors.'

He looked at me like I did NOT know what I was talking about.

I insisted he do it. Reluctantly, he went to the driver seat and shut off the air supply for the doors.

THE REAR DOORS CLOSED! And the Brakes, released!

As everyone got back on the bus, I could hear people say '...HE (being 'Me' ) should be driving this bus.'

There were 3 problems with that:

1) I had no Driver License at all.

2) I was not old enough to drive a bus, yet.

3) I did TRY later in the future to apply for jobs at the MBTA (Massachusetts Bay

Transportation Authority). No Luck landing a job there. Last attempt was September 2005: 'Streetcar Operator'.

How about THIS:

At work, I was passing by the Main Elevator...I was unaware it had broken down & stopped between floors (it was between mine and the one below). As I got closer to it, I was told there were 3 people inside.

Building Management did not know fully how to open the elevator doors. The Elevator Technician was still far from the museum. The concern was to get the passengers out of the Elevator. I remembered how Opening the elevator doors was done before. I started with the Outer Elevator Doors...got them open. Next, I got THE Elevator Doors Open. DONE! The people trapped inside all got out safely.

Building Management was VERY Impressed and knew what to do next time. I got 'High Praise' that day. I felt, '...if I can do things like THAT - and like what happened on the bus - the Job Market WILL Take Notice.'I wanted a Higher Paying job. I felt I deserved it because of the hidden talent I have.

Well, the 'Job Market' "Took Notice", alright.

Black male. Living in the Inner City. A High School Diploma and later, some college credits.
My annual Income has ALWAYS been  Below Poverty Level since my first job out of High School. I CAN'T afford a car at all! That potential talent I have and I'm seen as 'a threat' to the Job Market. As well as 'Cheap Labor' for them.

Think about it. I'm a passenger on a bus, smarter than the Bus Driver. I'm a low paid Museum Employee smarter than the Building Management.

ALL of that happened about the late 1980s.

No matter what, even to those "higher paid and/or educated people", I'm seen as 'a threat' to them. Especially if THEY dropped out of high school.

Working in the 'Technical Field' now, I STILL make far less $$$$ than what 'other technicians' get.

NOT to sound Racist: IF I were a White Male High School Dropout (BONUS Points if I were a Non Black Immigrant) with that kind of talent, I would be making a decent annual income? Yes. This IS a known Fact.

TRUE. My Income DID go up enough for me to afford a house. But what you don't realize is my Income DROPPED soon after, thanks to "The Corparate Greeds" out there. But how many people REALLY think about that?

Remember these well known statistics: 1 in 4 White Male High School Drop-outs can still get a job. 1 in 8 Black Male High School Drop-outs can still get a job...and at LESS Pay than the White high school dropout! Known Facts!

In 2002, I 'find out on my own' about the "Elevator Builders Union" (funny no one tells ME about them sooner). I took a test for that in early 2003. I'm not good at BIG Math Equations.

So, I failed that part of their test. I have no idea what I got right, overall.

It's funny people complained about "...And, The American Way" being left out in 'Superman Returns'. I'm just a Talented 6th Generation Black American that's seen as 'a threat'.

See my other Blog: "Since You Like Trains So Much...".

Recently updated. Thanks for stopping by.

Tuesday, November 13^th 2007: It is reported in the news (CNN told it very, very well) despite the strengthening Economy in America, the Income gap between White Families and Black Families grew.  The study showed, when the Income for the Black Man is adjusted for Inflation for the last 30 years, his Income went down. When the same is done for the White male, his Income went up! Despite those findings, a SMALL Percentage of the Black Population in America is doing well financially.

Let me be clear on two things:

1) I know many of my Non Black friends find this just as disturbing and are working hard to make a difference. All of us are.

2) Spending money on programs to dealing with Racial Discrimination is only part of the answer...to nip this issue in the bud. Common sense is Free.

Winter 2006/2007: CNN Reported a story on Wall Street: "End Of The Year Bonuses". I watch the video clip VERY closely...ALL of those interviewed for the story is White and mostly male. The males - if they would talk about it on camera - got end of the year bonuses from $50,000 to $100,000,000! AND, many of these "men" contacted financial advisors on what to do with the bonus money (are you kidding me?). One "Financial Advisor" interviewed for the story: White Female. She says she got many calls from men with questions about what to do with that Bonus.

Personally, I REALLY think those guys calling her were just trying to impress the lady...get her (or anyone else on the other end of that phone) to be "matchmaker".

An older looking white male was seen speeding, yes SPEEDING...away in a Ferrari on a VERY wide city street. I presume it is "Wall Street".

It is images like this that tell the rest of the world what America IS like. And why many Non Blacks are surprised I live in a house. Especially Immigrants.

What would I do if I got an End Of The Year Bonus? I will not call a Financial Advisor, that's for sure. I will already know what to spend it on. Yeah, something Model Train related. Why would I want to go out and get myself or others drunk or something??

See? I'm so "different" to some, it's scary. I may just set aside the bonus for 'Retirement'...(since my Income is LOW, anyway).

In conversation with a non Black, I have said: "I live in a house...I own it."

A small few respect that. Too many others will look at me and respond, "YOU live in a house?" And in their minds are the words "Why are you living in a house? Why not an Apartment or some Housing Project"? "What neighborhood is that you live in?"

Even a Haitian Woman (earning more income than I) stopped talking to me all together - I presume - when she saw a photo of my house.

And the most popular question: "How can YOU afford it?" My answer: "I work two jobs."

Then I may be asked (with a puzzled look from them), "Why are you working 2 jobs?" My answer - IF I were pushed enough: "Because many Blacks, myself included - Male AND Female - have to work two jobs to earn the same money the White Man makes."

Silence from some. Sympathy from others.

Other questions they (may) ask: "Can you ask for a raise? Why don't you (just quit) get another job somewhere else?"

My answer: "I have asked. The response from the employer:  We are trying to save money."

I DON'T believe their response. We all KNOW CEO's get Big Raises/Bonuses totaling Millions annually.

Go to school? Get NEW job training/skills? That is just as promising as having a Driver License - no guarantee of owning a car. Besides, how many jobs requiring a College Education remain in America upon graduation? Or pay a decent income? Not all Americans are paid equally...as you already know.

I did expect the same higher wage start, with my years of experience in a trade/profession. Right! Reality Check: No dice. Employers are not that desperate/generous. Go figure.

Those words in the personals profile: '....Woman seeking a White Male, Financially Secure, Educated with a stable Job" seem louder than ever. Not to mention annoying. Welcome to the 21^st Century.

Then come the words (well versed too, as I have heard them time and again) many Whites and NON-Whites (especially Asian) would Ask/Expect me to do: "Why don't you sell your House? You can move into an apartment. And when you save your money...you get a house you can afford?"

FEW Blacks would ever say that. They know 'the struggle' anyway.

'Saving for a house I can afford' as I was asked. I posed a question to one who IS in the High Income Bracket: 'How long will that take?' 'What if that day NEVER comes? And you KNOW it will never come?' 'Do you know someone who would love to buy my house, now? One of your "Family Members" perhaps?'

She was silent.

Response from another: 'you should be positive"..."think positive.'

If I got a dollar every time I was told the above quotes, I would never have to worry about being in the LOW Income Bracket.

Care to guess how often and how long I have been told those words? Care to guess how long I have been trying to be 'positive'? I still am...but the more I keep at it the more it hurts. I would look as if I am high on drugs or something. I NEVER touched that crap in my life.

Still think I "...must be doing something wrong"? I have been accused of it many times. Go figure.

True. This should not be just a 'Black & White' issue.

Looking a little further. It has been reported:

A) Asians are expected to surpass Whites in Annual Income...if it has not happened already.

B) In addition to 'A'...Asian Women in general see White Men as 'Status Symbols' if she does not want an Asian Man  for marriage/lifetime partner.

C) Many Immigrants from South America, entering "Corporate, America" are still paid 'LOW Wages'...that ordinary Americans would NEVER work for (think 'the jobs American's won't do' - as quoted by, among others, President George W Bush. Keep in mind, Bush said those words ON national television/radio. I feel like he slapped me HARD across the face). And...

D) "Light skinned Immigrants are MORE likely to get paid higher than Dark Skinned Immigrants".

An Asian Friend has told me in an Email, her Asian Girlfriends are all dating/married to White men. She can attest to the Racism here in America.

To ad more of a 'sting' to "B" (above)

Part of the reason Asian Women 'prefer' White Men is due to the pressure 'their families will disown them'. I have witnessed it myself. VERY Painful!

Also, on "another Website", a Chinese Woman living in China saw the picture of me in front of my house. She left a comment on the photo not believing I live in the house. She wanted to see the house I really live in. I guessed her English was not very good. So, I sent her a message in Chinese and English to assure her it is my house. To this day, she never responded.

Though there are sightings of Asian Women in relationships with Black Men, some possible reasons (from personal Experience/Observation):

A) She got curious of Black Men

B) Her family 'relented' after getting to know him more

C) An event/common interests brought them together

To be fair, there are relationships between Asian Men and Black Women that are growing. Yet, the numbers are quite small. Asian Men and White Women are not 'a blip' on the screen, either.

Discrimination is what goes on as the American Government continues to look the other way. I'm not forgetting about Condoleezza Rice. She's the token Black Girl.

Barack Obama gains popularity...but many Americans still don't want to vote for him. Many don't believe the many racial problems will go away, either. Still, there are supporters that WANT him to win so America does not look racist to the rest of the world.

I'm NOT ashamed to say "I NEVER voted for (Governor) Duval Patrick". He still did not say why I should vote for him. I was not convinced of his plans to make Massachusetts livable, again. We still have the name "Taxachusetts".

July 30th, 2008 - There has been talk about an apology for the sins of Slavery. The Treatment of the Native American Indians...the list goes on! After the apology...is money next? I for one DON'T want it!

Slavery, Discrimination and Racism...ALL of that crap cast a nasty image over this country.

Clearly, the racial problems in America still raised more questions than answers.

Can we forgive each other? How quickly and easily can we move forward from there?

Martin Luther King is spinning in his grave.

Kudos to 'Lisha' for reminding us of a Universal Speech by a Great Man.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbUtL_0vAJk

Check my Emails. Log off. Go to bed.

Go to work in the morning. Listen to stories in the news about how many shoppers took advantage of getting started early on Xmas Shopping. I will just listen to the voices on the radio about who bought what. And I will listen to the Corporate Masters whine and whine about how slow Xmas sales are expected this year (Remember: THEY brought this on us...and will try to lay blame on you and I for their 'missed goals' of making money before the year is out.).

And, laugh about my "Best Blog Ever"  ('13,000+')...it slammed Wall  Street.
Here is the link: http://engineer21.zaadz.com/blog/2007/4/13_000 (your comments are welcome!)

Deposit my tiny pay Check. Wait for the next bus to go to my Overnight Job and go Online to check more Emails. Get a nap. Wake up a few minutes before I begin my shift.

Grab some Hot Chocolate for the night run. Return to my Full time Job. Return home 12 hours later.

It already is monotinous....=P

I have often taken risks. But NEVER to the point of someone getting hurt or causing damage. I can also be stubborn...A risk I like to take as well. No regrets on that.

Well, since I know how to cook. The last thing I made from scratch is Lunch!

I used to buy my own lunch for years. I hated to make my own. Then, one day, I decided to get back into making my own lunch because of the $$$$$ I would save. AND, I know what is in the food I eat (for the most part). Also, I eat healthy and often.

Some of what I make (mostly with Rice):

Rice, Broccoli & Black Beans (or Boston Baked Beans).

Rice & Fish (Salmon)

Rice & Fresh Garlic

Rice & Vegitables

Spaghetti and Tomato Sauce (with any combo) Garlic/Cheese/4 Cheese/Mushrooms.

Before you say it...I have already been told "You eat like that you are gonna live forever".

Believe me, I don't mind cooking at all. I'm not a perfect cook...but I cook. ^__^

And before you say THAT - you are right: My girlfriend is very lucky to have a guy like me. There is just one little problem - I don't have a lady in my life. I have no idea why. But let's not go off topic...

For what it is worth, I don't often plan what I will cook. I just look at what I have in the kitchen/refridgerator and roll with it! I blame my Dad for that! LOL!

Then there is a recent photo of my "Halloween Costume" ("Black Ash - the 'Other' Pokemon Trainer"). Again, I just looked at what I had. I have a costume in less than a minute. For what it is worth...I told my collegues I would 'come to work in my Halloween Costume'. For weeks I was asked "What are you going to wear?" I told no one. They guessed, but I still did not tell them. It drove all (but one) of them, nuts! LOL!

And when I showed up on the day as promised. They all loved it!

Lastly, this is Model Train related (you saw this coming when you saw the picture, did you not? ^__^). The short of it (in the photo - 3 Green Passenger cars are in use - in planning stage, that is why it is on the floor):

Having gotten bitten by the European Model Train bug...

I had searched OnLine for a European Train. I just wanted to create my own simple train. So...I saw some Model Passenger Cars on sale. I placed an order. After the package arrived, I still needed a Locomotive for the passenger cars. I got a FREE catalog from the same party (days later) that sent me the order I made OnLine (They ARE excellent! Highly recommended for you European Model Train buffs!)

In the catalog, I saw 1 Locomotive. "Perfect!" When the train came together, I named it "The Green Machine". After operating the new arrival for a while over a few days "...this thing is more like a monster". I meant that in a VERY friendly way. I changed the name to "The Green Monster".

Why it was 'more of a Monster'...than a machine? I had ordered 9 Passenger cars and had them all coupled together as one very long passenger train. A VERY Challenging Model Train at that! Hey! I LOVE Physics, too! ^__^

Thanks for reading!