See how closely our elected officials and Big Biz are joined at the hip? A perfect example........
I wrote about the credit card reform legislation passed last year in the book and the numerous loopholes, and how the Credit Card companies had already gotten around those loopholes and were back to business as usual.
Just more lip service and smoke and mirrors from our politicians dba "public servants". Trying to appear that they were actually doing something for our benefit.
A perfect example of the corruption that exists in our government and elected officials: Nancy Pelosi is back in the news............
I wrote in an earlier post and comedy skit a few months ago that Ms. Pelosi's net worth had increased over sixty percent in the last two years alone. Here's just one possible example on how.
This all started back in 07 when Democrats got control of Congress and the credit card companies were concerned that they might kill the goose the goose that laid their golden egg by creating new protections for consumers.
Visa had not had any prior relationship with Ms. Pelosi, but hired an army of 14 lobbying firms to try and "persuade" Ms Pelosi to back off on any new credit card legislation until after the 08 elections. Soon after, Pelosi's reelection campaign received a $1000.00 donation from Visa's political action committee. Soon after that, one of the lobbyist also donated $1000.00 to her re-election and an additional $1000.00 to the Democratic Congressional Campaign.
As the plot thickens, Nancy's husband Paul got a pre-selected invitation in March of 08 to partake in Visa's 17.9 billion public stock offering, which was touted as one of the best stock offerings in that current slow market. Keep in mind this offering was only for "the chosen few", "pre-selected" investors. Nancy's husband initially bought 5000 shares and then another 15,000 shares over the following few months. The original price for this IPO was $44.00 a share. Even with the downturn in the market, those shares are valued at around $95.00 each now.
Guess it pays to have "friends" in high places. And of course, Ms Pelosi's office denies that any of her meetings with the big wigs at Visa had ANYTHING to do with the stock purchase! She also never brought up anything about the credit card bills in 08,stating she did not believe Bush would sign them. Although she did put effort into the "Credit Card Holder's Bill of Rights" in 09, as I stated prior the bill was full of holes, and
pretty much had little effect if any on the credit card companies.
Just one prime example of many. Our government and many elected officials are a disgrace to the American people. We need to get rid of them NOW! Know another great example? POST IT!
Link to the comedy video I did a few months back titled " Chit Chat with Nancy Pelosi" below. Nothing wrong with a little comedy and some laughs in all this mess. Funny but TRUE!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zmsoP-9FnM&feature=youtu.be
"American Me?" the book www.AmericanMeUs.com Get Involved
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Baby Boomers Are Going Broke Too?
I wrote an entire chapter about this in the the book: "The American Dream, Is it really a nightmare"?
Medical expense not covered by insurance is currently a major cause for bankruptcy in America.
Economic advisers have estimated that on average you are going to need somewhere around $500K to retire in a conservative fashion. Most people on average only have an estimated 60K or so in their retirement accounts, if even that.
It is now estimated that a couple who is 65 today will need almost 300K of retirement savings just to cover medical costs not covered by Medicare , for the typical elderly patient. With current and fairly recent returns on retirement accounts I sure don't see that happening.
Even while my accounts continue to lose value, the brokerage firms continue to charge my accounts hefty fees for a job not so well done. I guess that is my contribution to their retirement account? In addition, I have to pay taxes on any gains, yet get no deduction for the losses. What's up with that? Government, Wall Street, and Big Biz is what's up.
Fact is unless some type of miracle happens, a majority are not going to be able to retire, or even afford proper health care and living expenses for that matter. Unless of course they are on welfare or some other social program.
As I have asked numerous times prior: " Will the elderly and our veterans become the new ranks of the homeless? If not, who's going to pay that bill? Their children? Do you want to see your parents or grand parents in a soup line?
I guess we need to cut taxpayer paid for benefits to insure our politicians and government's agenda's for war and policing the planet are kept in tact? NOT!!!
Think about the social and economic ramifications of one of our largest populous not being able to live, or possibly even survive.
What about people who have never worked but receive "social" paychecks and incomes? I guess they will be better off than the people who actually paid for those "incomes" and "benefits", that they will continue to receive regardless?
Something is really wrong with this "dream"! WAKE UP before it's too late! Read more in the book.
"American Me?" the book. www.AmericanMeUs.com
Medical expense not covered by insurance is currently a major cause for bankruptcy in America.
Economic advisers have estimated that on average you are going to need somewhere around $500K to retire in a conservative fashion. Most people on average only have an estimated 60K or so in their retirement accounts, if even that.
It is now estimated that a couple who is 65 today will need almost 300K of retirement savings just to cover medical costs not covered by Medicare , for the typical elderly patient. With current and fairly recent returns on retirement accounts I sure don't see that happening.
Even while my accounts continue to lose value, the brokerage firms continue to charge my accounts hefty fees for a job not so well done. I guess that is my contribution to their retirement account? In addition, I have to pay taxes on any gains, yet get no deduction for the losses. What's up with that? Government, Wall Street, and Big Biz is what's up.
Fact is unless some type of miracle happens, a majority are not going to be able to retire, or even afford proper health care and living expenses for that matter. Unless of course they are on welfare or some other social program.
As I have asked numerous times prior: " Will the elderly and our veterans become the new ranks of the homeless? If not, who's going to pay that bill? Their children? Do you want to see your parents or grand parents in a soup line?
I guess we need to cut taxpayer paid for benefits to insure our politicians and government's agenda's for war and policing the planet are kept in tact? NOT!!!
Think about the social and economic ramifications of one of our largest populous not being able to live, or possibly even survive.
What about people who have never worked but receive "social" paychecks and incomes? I guess they will be better off than the people who actually paid for those "incomes" and "benefits", that they will continue to receive regardless?
Something is really wrong with this "dream"! WAKE UP before it's too late! Read more in the book.
"American Me?" the book. www.AmericanMeUs.com
Friday, November 11, 2011
Great Idea for America!: A New Christmas Tradition for 2011
Although this won't work for everyone on your list, it will work for many of them. This was an email I received. There was no Author named, so I am just going to re-post it. Great read and idea!
Christmas 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition
As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This is concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at giftgiving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Yes there is!
It's time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper? Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber? Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.
Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.
Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plunking down the Benjamins on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.
There are a bizillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.
How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy? Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day, flowers, a nice fruit basket.
My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.
OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.
Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre. Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.
Honestly, people, do we REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.
You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about our own friends and neighbors, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn't imagine. THIS is the new American Christmas tradition.
Christmas 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition
As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This is concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at giftgiving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Yes there is!
It's time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper? Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber? Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.
Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.
Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plunking down the Benjamins on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.
There are a bizillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.
How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy? Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day, flowers, a nice fruit basket.
My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.
OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.
Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre. Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.
Honestly, people, do we REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.
You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about our own friends and neighbors, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn't imagine. THIS is the new American Christmas tradition.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Dumb & Dumber? Candidates "slip" on Econ 101!
I wrote a lot about this in depth in the book. Why do they keep on serving up "dumb and dumber" for Presidential Candidates when this is supposed to be one of the most prestigious jobs in the world? Not to mention some of the idiotic comments coming out of our other high profile elected officials.
Isn't there someone out there with half a brain that wants to make 400K + a year with life long benefits? Probably, but they won't ever get the opportunity since "they" only serve up what's bought and paid for!
From a CNN Money article by Charles Riley, 11.09.11:
"America's Econ 101 professors say yes. In their view, the candidates continue to offer ideas and policies that wouldn't pass muster in their classes -- populated by 18 year-old college students".
"There are so many economic 'misstatements' being made," said Jonathan Lanning, a professor at Bryn Mawr who is teaching two introductory economics classes this semester. "And it isn't confined to any one candidate."
Isn't there someone out there with half a brain that wants to make 400K + a year with life long benefits? Probably, but they won't ever get the opportunity since "they" only serve up what's bought and paid for!
From a CNN Money article by Charles Riley, 11.09.11:
"America's Econ 101 professors say yes. In their view, the candidates continue to offer ideas and policies that wouldn't pass muster in their classes -- populated by 18 year-old college students".
"There are so many economic 'misstatements' being made," said Jonathan Lanning, a professor at Bryn Mawr who is teaching two introductory economics classes this semester. "And it isn't confined to any one candidate."
"I think it's grossly irresponsible what they are saying," Golub said. "It's not about economics. It's about getting elected. They are promising things that are impossible to deliver or make little sense."
"The rhetoric sounds good on the campaign trail. Not in the classroom".
"Another professor who teaches at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Michael Salemi, was able to identify statements from six candidates that "would earn failing grades in my Econ 101 class."
What a joke! As I have stated prior: "You candidates need to get this three ring over, so we all know who to vote, AGAINST! Why can't we get an Independent? Seems that may solve numerous problems, including the childish kindergarten antics and bickering of our Congress and Senate! WE DESERVE BETTER!
American Me? the book www.AmericanMeUs.com
Monday, November 7, 2011
Big Banks Don't Care About "Bank Transfer Day" ?
I guess they have forgotten about all that money they make using our money to give loans. They pay less than one percent interest on deposits nowadays, and charge anywhere from around 4% to 12% for home and car loans.
I guess the Credit Unions are more aware of what the Big Banks have forgotten: CUSTOMER SERVICE! In addition, most Credit Unions offer better rates to their members than many of the Big Banks.
Keep it going and keep the ball rolling! Sooner or later maybe these Big Banks that were bailed out with OUR MONEY might realize that it is a PRIVILEGE to have CUSTOMERS, and the ability to make a profit with OUR MONEY!
From an article in the Wall Street Journal by Suzanne Kapner, 11.07.11:
"Thousands of people flooded into credit unions and small banks over the weekend as part of "Bank Transfer Day," an effort to prod depositors to abandon giant banks. But at least some of the big banks won't mind losing those customers".
"Executives at large banks have shown few signs of worry that depositors might walk out the door".
"Moebs Services Inc., a research firm in Lake Bluff, Ill., estimates that it costs the giant banks about $350 to $450 per year to maintain a checking account. In contrast, smaller banks incur costs of $175 to $250 a year per checking account".
"Banks try to recoup such costs by imposing overdraft fees and other charges. But new rules in the wake of the financial crisis limit some of those surcharges. The recent debit-card-charge mess was a failed attempt to close the gap"
I guess the Credit Unions are more aware of what the Big Banks have forgotten: CUSTOMER SERVICE! In addition, most Credit Unions offer better rates to their members than many of the Big Banks.
Keep it going and keep the ball rolling! Sooner or later maybe these Big Banks that were bailed out with OUR MONEY might realize that it is a PRIVILEGE to have CUSTOMERS, and the ability to make a profit with OUR MONEY!
From an article in the Wall Street Journal by Suzanne Kapner, 11.07.11:
"Thousands of people flooded into credit unions and small banks over the weekend as part of "Bank Transfer Day," an effort to prod depositors to abandon giant banks. But at least some of the big banks won't mind losing those customers".
"Executives at large banks have shown few signs of worry that depositors might walk out the door".
"Moebs Services Inc., a research firm in Lake Bluff, Ill., estimates that it costs the giant banks about $350 to $450 per year to maintain a checking account. In contrast, smaller banks incur costs of $175 to $250 a year per checking account".
"Banks try to recoup such costs by imposing overdraft fees and other charges. But new rules in the wake of the financial crisis limit some of those surcharges. The recent debit-card-charge mess was a failed attempt to close the gap"
"Many banks also have done away with free checking, unless customers maintain a minimum balance and meet other criteria".
"More than three-fourths of credit unions offer no-strings-attached free checking, compared with 45% of banks, says Greg McBride, an analyst with Bankrate.com. Deposits at banks and credit unions are insured up to $250,000".
American Me? The book www.AmericanMeUs.com
MAKE A DIFFERENCE! GET INVOLVED! FIGHT BACK!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
"The Wish List" objective: Find specific political common ground and a platform that reflects the wishes of the majority.
The List's objective is to find a specific political common ground and a platform that reflects the wishes of the majority of Americans.
In a Democracy the majority is supposed to rule, regardless of what that majority is."The Wish List" will be reflective of what that majority wants from our government.
"The Wish List" was created to give anyone the opportunity to post a list of 10 legitimate political items /agendas they feel are of utmost importance to our country's future and the majority's well being. You can also agree with, or just add your wishes to the current list by commenting below.
I started the original list from my own personal viewpoint. I will collate the responses, add and subtract from the "list" with similar and repetitive responses, to create one list that will be directly reflective of the groups ideas, wants, and wishes.
Please NO discussions aimed directly at "The List" at this time. Just your list of 10 items with possibly a BRIEF explanation of those items if needed. I do NOT want this to become an argumentative, divisive, or offensive conversation or commentary. As things progress, I will open it up to discussion on what items the final list needs to include.
The final list will be in direct adherence to the ratio of legitimate lists posted. I am also requesting some help to manage it, and to make sure "The List" stays objective and on it's original purpose.
Once "The List" is finalized, we can decide as a group what to do with it, and how to support it.
MY WISH LIST:
1. The majority needs to unite in a common cause and on a common ground and platform, and put differences aside, to gain the strength and power to get OUR country back.
2. We need campaign reform and regulation put back in place, so "Independents" can be on equal ground and status with our current bought and paid for politicians.
3. We need term limits on Congress and accountability for their actions.
4. We need an impeachment process in place so we can more easily rid ourselves of elected politicians that don't live up to campaign promises, or the wishes of the majority.
5. We need regulations put back in place on Big Biz, and especially the Financial Industry to protect OUR best interests.
6. We need to get back to a "Democratic Capitalist System" and away from the current "Authoritarian Capitalist System", by eliminating Big Biz, Wall Street, Special Interest, and their Lobbyists from our government.
7. We need Health Care Reform. Basic health care, not health care based on corporate profit.
8. We need Immigration Reform. The costs to taxpayers for illegals is staggering, and our country's systems, infrastructure, schools, hospitals, etc. cannot sustain the current influx.
9. We need Federal Income Tax Reform. A fairer system for all, including Big Biz and the Wealthy.
10. Cuts in Taxpayer paid benefits OFF the table. Cut waste in government spending, cut and/or trim back unnecessary or dysfunctional departments and programs.
11. We need to cut back Military spending, and take care of our own country first and foremost.
I will also be posting on my Linked In, Face Book, and Twitter. so those not on Linked In can participate. If you know someone who might like to participate please refer them to this blog or one of their preferred links below.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Me-the-book/144068899006246
http://twitter.com/#!/DennisMatranga
http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Wish-List-4153751?home=&gid=4153751&trk=anet_ug_hm
In a Democracy the majority is supposed to rule, regardless of what that majority is."The Wish List" will be reflective of what that majority wants from our government.
"The Wish List" was created to give anyone the opportunity to post a list of 10 legitimate political items /agendas they feel are of utmost importance to our country's future and the majority's well being. You can also agree with, or just add your wishes to the current list by commenting below.
I started the original list from my own personal viewpoint. I will collate the responses, add and subtract from the "list" with similar and repetitive responses, to create one list that will be directly reflective of the groups ideas, wants, and wishes.
Please NO discussions aimed directly at "The List" at this time. Just your list of 10 items with possibly a BRIEF explanation of those items if needed. I do NOT want this to become an argumentative, divisive, or offensive conversation or commentary. As things progress, I will open it up to discussion on what items the final list needs to include.
The final list will be in direct adherence to the ratio of legitimate lists posted. I am also requesting some help to manage it, and to make sure "The List" stays objective and on it's original purpose.
Once "The List" is finalized, we can decide as a group what to do with it, and how to support it.
MY WISH LIST:
1. The majority needs to unite in a common cause and on a common ground and platform, and put differences aside, to gain the strength and power to get OUR country back.
2. We need campaign reform and regulation put back in place, so "Independents" can be on equal ground and status with our current bought and paid for politicians.
3. We need term limits on Congress and accountability for their actions.
4. We need an impeachment process in place so we can more easily rid ourselves of elected politicians that don't live up to campaign promises, or the wishes of the majority.
5. We need regulations put back in place on Big Biz, and especially the Financial Industry to protect OUR best interests.
6. We need to get back to a "Democratic Capitalist System" and away from the current "Authoritarian Capitalist System", by eliminating Big Biz, Wall Street, Special Interest, and their Lobbyists from our government.
7. We need Health Care Reform. Basic health care, not health care based on corporate profit.
8. We need Immigration Reform. The costs to taxpayers for illegals is staggering, and our country's systems, infrastructure, schools, hospitals, etc. cannot sustain the current influx.
9. We need Federal Income Tax Reform. A fairer system for all, including Big Biz and the Wealthy.
10. Cuts in Taxpayer paid benefits OFF the table. Cut waste in government spending, cut and/or trim back unnecessary or dysfunctional departments and programs.
11. We need to cut back Military spending, and take care of our own country first and foremost.
I will also be posting on my Linked In, Face Book, and Twitter. so those not on Linked In can participate. If you know someone who might like to participate please refer them to this blog or one of their preferred links below.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Me-the-book/144068899006246
http://twitter.com/#!/DennisMatranga
http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Wish-List-4153751?home=&gid=4153751&trk=anet_ug_hm
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)