Congress leaves after 4 days work

Although we had a high of 85 today, sunshine and blue skies, we also had tornado and severe thunderstorm watches and warnings. This evening we had some rain but that was it.

Notes from the Home Front

There really isn't anything newsworthy at home today.

National News

Oil Spill - Gulf of Mexico

Watching CNN at the moment, something bad is really going on down there. CNN is reporting that BP issued a statement that workers could talk to reporters, but when workers were asked to talk, no one would. Other reports are coming in that the workers can only work for 20 minutes out of each hour because of the heat and the oil.

Looking at the live feed on the flow of oil spewing from the pipes, it doesn't really look as though the flow has slowed down any.

The families of the men who died on the oil rig reported that not even one person has approached them with condolences from BP, not even a card or letter.

Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL) is pushing for transparency and accountability from BP regarding the flow of oil and what BP is going to do since oil is starting to show up on Florida's beaches.

Here's one article - John Boehner Thinks Taxpayers Should Bail Out BP? - Another bailout before unemployment etc passes? Who does John Boehner think he is? Read all about it.

Unemployment News

Who allowed Congress to work only FOUR days this week after taking a 2 week vacation? Did you? No, huh? Me neither. For years we have paid Congress members big bucks - this year upwards of $175,000 EACH! Some of us will be fortunate to make even close to that in a lifetime. Of course, because of everything attached to HR 4213, it wasn't even on the table this week yet, it was supposed to be. There are millions of us who have no idea where our next money is coming from. This recession IS NOT our fault. Perhaps we need to get Bush and bring him to court for what he has done to our country.

So, of course, we have politicians who have arguments against continuing unemployment benefits read about it. Get mad about it!

Here's the proof in the pudding about Congress, they are fiddling around while 212,o00 unemployed people a WEEK lose their unemployment benefits. The Examiner covers it.

Stand up and be heard!

Local News

Governor Bill Ritter did something good for the people and businesses here in Colorado today. Why doesn't he do ALL good for the state? In my opinion, since he is leaving office, he's really going to leave his 'mark' on all of us. Anyway, today he signed the "Punish Chrysler" bill into law. Since I don't like Bill Ritter very much, I'm not going to spend too much time writing about him.

Foodie News

Did you think you saw too much advertisement of KFC's DoubleDown? Well hold onto your seats, McDonald's is introducing their "McGangBang" which is a Chicken Sandwich Between Two Burgers. The picture of it is worth 1000 words.

That's about it for today. Congress leaving after 4 days of work has me very upset to the point that I'll be faxing a letter over to President Obama and all my representatives in Washington DC as well. In my opinion, for our Senators and Representatives to have local offices in addition to offices in Washington DC is a total waste. I've called both and get "lip service" from them.

Remember WE put them into office and WE can take them out too!

Anyone else feel like running for office? We need good HONEST people to represent us!

As always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!

WE'LL REMEMBER IN NOVEMBER!

Tis Tornado Season

More tornado and thunderstorm warnings and watches across Colorado today. The high was 86 degrees but felt like 100.

Notes from the Home Front

It's so nice to have a GREAT staff at the rental office. Tonight, it's pretty quiet around here, no late night parties or loud obnoxious neighbors. I was informed that we have two pools here and since the other one is off the beaten path, it'll be reserved more for adults! I'm excited!

National News

Oil Spill - Gulf of Mexico

We didn't like Ken Salazar here in Colorado and now wonder if he's misleading the public regarding oil drilling. Read the article from the Denver Post.

BP - Tony Hayward CEO

Have you seen the commercials "starring" Tony Hayward? He's such a liar, crews are not on the job as much as the commercial shows, he's not paying the workers their actual worth or even repaying for losses as he should. Just like the Gulf of Mexico is filing fast with oil, Tony Hayward is spewing his own shit on land. What are your comments about what BP is doing? or not doing?

Unemployment News

Finally! The Voices of 99'ers Are Finally Being Heard in Washington - Congress to Hold Hearings on Long Term Unemployment. Congress needs to hear us! Since I'm on twitter and facebook, I have noticed that posts regarding unemployment have slowed down. Even on Twitter, the #unemployment hashtag posts have slowed as well. Peoples posts, comments and tweets are still needed to encourage further funding for the long term unemployed. Don't stop the calls, emails, faxes etc to your Senators and Representatives in Washington DC. Please read the article.

Last week I posted a disgusting article on companies not hiring unemployed candidates. There is a company or temp agency named The People Place that follows this practice. Sony Erikkson had the slogan on one of their ads, but has now deleted it. Let's band together to find who these companies are. I'll even expose them with use of my blog and social media ie: facebook and twitter. Today, I searched google for "NO UNEMPLOYED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONSIDERED AT ALL", these were my results.

Tech News

AT&T Pricing Changes for iPhone 4

For anyone who already owns an iPhone, your plans don't seem to be changing. Once you buy an iPhone 4 that all changes. AT&T is going to capitalize on users who watch movies without being on wi-fi. Hang onto your wallet and read all about it!

Apple iPad

This in from Gawker.com - Apple's Worst Security Breach: 114,000 iPad Owners Exposed. If you own an iPad - you'll want to read the whole article.
Here is an excerpt - The specific information exposed in the breach included subscribers' email addresses, coupled with an associated ID used to authenticate the subscriber on AT&T's network, known as the ICC-ID. ICC-ID stands for integrated circuit card identifier and is used to identify the SIM cards that associate a mobile device with a particular subscriber.

Free Stock Photos

Have you ever felt the need to look for a free stock photo for your website? Fried Beef gives you 8 places to get them. Before you go looking, don't do as one company I worked for did - they found a picture with 6 people in it who were supposed to represent their workers. Well these people not only didn't work there and never will but other companies were using the SAME stock photo to depict their employees. I have one thing to say, in light of high unemployment, no wonder we can't get jobs, these same 6 people in the photo took all of the openings.

Foodie Stuff

Because there wasn't much in Local News, I didn't post any. Instead I'm adding a review of a food product.

Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce

In my quest to continue to be frugal, I found an offer for a free coupon toward the purchase of Country Bob's Sauce. I highly recommend this sauce, it has a slight sweetness to it. Personally, I have used it in making hamburgers and for dipping steak and french fries in. My next use of Country Bob's All Purpose sauce will be in the making of BBQ Chicken Wings. You can find recipes and where to purchase Country Bob's on their website. When you go to their website, on the upper right hand side, click on the FREE button for a coupon to obtain a free bottle. If you live in an apartment complex and get a message stating that someone at your address has already received a coupon, click on "contact us" and write for one. Country Bob's is also found on Facebook where they have contests and drawings for free product.

As always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!

CHECK OUT TERMS ON iPHONE 4 WITH AT&T BEFORE BUYING!

Clip those Coupons!

The weather again today was odd. It was reported that we'd only see low 70s but alas, the weatherman lied again. There is a saying here in Colorado "if you don't like the weather wait 15 minutes".

Notes from the Home Front

As the title states, Clip those coupons! There are many sites that will send you coupons for items that you buy, and ones that you don't. Today, I took some coupons to the store, my final bill was $51.66 but after my coupon savings, all I owed was $22.46! That doesn't include the money that I saved on items that were on sale. When I like a product, I write to the company and tell them. Companies have also heard from me when I don't like their product. By writing to them, I've had FREE or cents off coupons fill my mailbox.

National News

Immigration

I've written about my opinions on closing the borders to the south but it seems that other states have the same problems with people coming in from Canada. This article - Border Patrol seeks text on suspicious activity - explains about illegal immigration in Washington State and Montana and how they deal with it.

Oil Spill - Gulf of Mexico

First, allow me to give a warning when going to this article and video. The article is titled - Oil Spill Birds Cooked Alive: Spill Will 'Cook The Birds' - there is also a video to watch. I'm heartbroken.

Another article on the oil spill is about a Professor from the University of Pittburgh wanting to have BP use his filter on the oil. Read it here.

George W. Bush

YAY for the New York Times! They are demanding a criminal investigation of Bush officials. The investigation reveals admin conducted medical experiments on torture victims. We all knew about the water-boarding but this article is truly revealing. Could this be why he has been out of the public eye? Bush should have remembered the old adage, "what goes around, comes around".

Unemployment News

As millions of Americans wait for news on Tier 5, extended unemployment - perhaps someone is listening. The article - Tier 5 and extended unemployment benefits: letters to Congress from the long-term unemployed - might just give a broader insight to what people who are unemployed are going through. If you think you have it bad, read the letters.

As Sonny and Cher sang "the beat goes on"! Could this next article be the reason that hearts are beating at a slower rate? Read how the Senate is beginning consideration on HR 4213. The article is titled - Senate begins consideration of unemployment benefits extension (HR 4213) today - the time is NOW for them to help out their constituents. We will remember come November!

Fun Stuff

Sometimes humor IS the best medicine! The 11 Funniest Unintentionally-Sexual Signs Of All Time (PHOTOS) - these pictures just made me laugh out loud today. Hope they do the same for you! After seeing the one picture on the site, scroll down toward the bottom of the page, there is a series of additional pictures there, just glide your mouse over them to view. Find the laughs here.

Another funny thing is when someone tries to imitate you. How flattering is that? VERY! Whether you are a "friend" with the person or not, just because they imitate you shows that they want to be like you! It's the same when someone reads a blog then comments on it through their twitter or facebook page. Personally, I find this practice hysterical. So, a personal word to the person who has done this - Thanks! Wouldn't it be easier to just go on being yourself? I'll take the liberty to answer for you - "I don't know who I really am". LOL ... how's that for exposure?

As Always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!

MAKE YOUR POLITICIAN WORK FOR YOU!

Can you say HOT?

Today's temperature must have hit 97! If it didn't it sure felt like it and maybe more.

Notes from the Home Front

As I mentioned it was hot today. Around 2pm, it was decided that a trip to the pool would be great. Let me tell you, it was, at least for the 2 1/2 hours that I spent there. The only reason for leaving the pool area was not because I was tired or even that I'd had enough. The real reason was the screaming children. WHY do parents allow their children to scream at the top of their lungs while in and around the pool? Don't they have any control over their children? Really folks, we are at the pool for a reason, aren't we? It's to cool off, relax (as I was doing with my book), and get out of the house for a while. Is it terrible that hearing anyone scream makes my skin crawl and all I'd like to do is turn around and walk away?

Tomorrow is another day and it's my belief that perhaps I should go out there earlier and miss the screaming, then come home and go back to the pool later in the evening.

The cucumber plants are growing nicely and have the same little buds on them as about a week ago. The green pepper plants are growing slowly but they are still nice and green and look sturdy.

National News

iPhone 4G unveiled by Steve Jobs

The iPhone 4g will be available on June 24th. There are many new features but I think that the one I'd enjoy most is the video chat. There are downsides to the iPhone 4G though, to video chat, the other person must also have the newest iPhone. Additionally, if you really don't like AT&T but stick with them because they have the iPhone - you will have to start a NEW contract with them. Yes, a TWO year contract.

It was reported that Verizon would be able to offer the iPhone by the end of this year but realistically this won't happen until sometime in 2011. IF this is true, and you are buying the iPhone 4G now, your contact with AT&T won't end without early termination fees until 2012. It is my opinion that even though the iPhone 4G is rather affordable, if you want to go with Verizon, I'd wait. Without looking it up, the termination fees for AT&T have or are going to start at $350 and pro-rate down from there.

Still interested? Read the article - Next iPhone has clearer screen, coming out June 24 here.

Chrysler Recalls

Do you own a Jeep Wrangler? Model Year(s): 2006-2010 OR Chrysler Town & Country OR a Dodge Grand Caravan? Model Year(s): 2008-2009? These vehicles are on a massive recall totaling nearly 600, 000 vehicles. Hurry to this article to find out what the recall is for and what you should do to get your vehicle fixed.

Oil Spill - Gulf of Mexico

Do you read the Drudge Report? YES? NO? Well you should! The Drudge Report gives the most unbiased news, in my opinion. One article that was written there today was - Obama Seeking "Ass To Kick" Over Oil Spill. Needless to say, President Obama should be kicking some major BP ass and any other company related to the oil rig blowing up and subsequently, the oil spill that is polluting the Gulf. Not only is it polluting the Gulf but oil is everywhere, in the marshes, on wildlife, and it has killed many people's livelihood in the way of jobs. Don't forget those pristine beaches that can't be used over this summer, and who knows how long after that. Click here for the article and don't forget to read the comments of other politicians while there.

Arizona Law SB-1070

What is our President thinking? If I had to guess, he needs to support my nearby neighboring state of Arizona in enforcing their SB-1070 law. After speaking with a few friends on this subject, we have come to the conclusion that by not enforcing and being against the law as it is written now, our President will lose votes of the LEGAL immigrants should he seek re-election. President Obama, this is NOT the way to get votes! In my eyes, our president is totally wrong on this. We NEED strict laws like Arizona's SB1070.

Read the article on how President Obama asks the Supreme Court to Overturn Napolitano-Endorsed Immigration Law. Perhaps we need to campaign our wishes to the Supreme Court!

Unemployment News

Thank you to my many friends through Facebook and Twitter for these articles.

Did you know that the Senate debate on H.R. 4213 unemployment benefits extensions is to begin this week? Unemployment steadily goes up and up and up, while the government "plays" with us who sometimes feel that there is no future for a good job. We still apply for jobs EVERY DAY. Read the article to find out what other issues are being discussed within H.R. 4213. What happened to "no pork" within a bill?

I'm adding in this next article because it's just too darn funny! Want to know How to stay unemployed, (In 10 easy lessons)? Read John Heckers article that was found in the Colorado Biz Magazine.

Local News

Perky Cups

Have you heard of the new coffee shop called Perky Cups? You haven't? At Perky Cups, bikini clad baristas serve you coffee. One such shop is in Aurora, located at the corner of Peoria and Iliff. This store is on the radar of Aurora City Councilwoman Molly Markert who would like to boycott the store. In my opinion, perhaps she is jealous that she can't look as good as the servers can. No, I have never seen a picture of or met the Councilwoman. What do you think? Even though I live close to the store, I've never been in there. As the article states, coffee comes in a variety of sizes, A, B, C and D. Coffee is Coffee, who cares what the server is wearing! Way to go, Councilwoman Markert for trying to force businesses out of Aurora! Wake up!

XCel - Breaking News

On 14th and Jackson, there was a fire and explosions at the XCel transformer station. There are outages around the city and Rose Medical had no back up power. They transported critical patients to VMAC where there was power. Crews are still working on the transformers. I wonder if this is the result of an angry XCel (I call them X-Tortion) customer trying to get even for the new pricing and higher rates. There are no reports on any toxic fumes but people in the area have been told to keep their windows and doors closed.

My Verizon Update

I haven't heard from the higher "authority" yet. Let's give it a few days more, I'm sure that I'll hear something. Can't wait for this whole mess to be done and over with.

As always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!

SUPPORT ARIZONA, GOVERNOR BREWER AND SB-1070!

I hear thunder

Today temps got up in the high 80s, the blue skies were dotted with fluffy clouds that reminded me of cotton balls. There are severe thunderstorm warnings and watching up in the northeast corner of Colorado, near to Nebraska. As of this writing, the humidity has risen to an unbearable percentage.

Notes from the Home Front

The wildflower seeds that I planted may never come up. The pot that they are planted in was on the patio set table when out of nowhere a gust of wind blew the pot onto one of the chairs. What a mess! After cleaning the mess up, I refreshed the dirt and poured more wildflower seeds into the pot.

The cucumber and green pepper plants are doing well, and growing quickly.

I finished James Patterson's "Cross" and started on "Double Cross". Has anyone else read "Double Cross"? The reason for my question is that for some reason this book doesn't start out as his other "Alex Cross" series books. Just wondering if it's me or if someone else noticed that.

Last night through the rain and lightning, my downstairs neighbors thought it would be nice to have a hootin' and hollerin' time - why didn't they think of inviting the neighbors? Their company carried on this way until well after 11:30pm. Quiet time in our leases says 10pm. It is my belief that they will get a notice from the rental office.

The night before, Friday night (after I had posted my blog), there were two young guys shooting off fireworks near the cars and buildings. The police showed up shortly after that. Fireworks are illegal in the city where I live. Also, because Colorado is so dry, the least little spark can cause major damages to landscaping, buildings and cars.

National News

Oil Spill - Gulf of Mexico

On facebook in comments to a post, one person talked about an incredible professional photographer whose work could be found on his home page. Let me tell you - Jerry Moran is quite the photographer. Look at his first hand pictures of the Gulf of Mexico, these are horrifying. Here's the link.

JFK Airport - New York

This article - Two men with militant ties arrested at JFK airport for attempt to join militant group - caught my eye not only because I'm originally from New York but anything to do with militant groups scares me.

Local News

It's that time again for election commercials. Do these people ever stop slinging mud at each other? What does it matter who raises the most money for campaigning? This just raises a red flag as to where the "campaign money" really comes from. Is it "corporations via lobbyists"? Did real people donate? Who cares about the amount? Let's care about where these funds came from!

Tech News

Twitter

Can You Restore a Deleted Twitter Account? Find the answer here.

My Verizon Update

Within the next few weeks, I will be at liberty to divulge the whole issue and hopefully the major resolution to this. For now, it's ongoing and has gone to a "higher power"! Nope, I'm not religious and if I were, my "guy upstairs" doesn't handle affairs with wireless providers.

I can say, this month, I have, again, gone over my 5 gig limit with my usb air card. This is because Verizon's VZ Access Manager Software wasn't shut down when there was every indication that it had been. Rosa, the technical representative, informed me of that and that she would also make sure that IF I did go over 5 gig, she'd adjust my usage. Let's see if that happens.

Stay cool! Summer is upon us!

As Always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!

DON'T GIVE INTO POLITICIANS BULL!

Day 45 - Oil Spill

The temperature was in the 80s today although I never expected it to get that high today.

Notes from the Home Front

I'm still reading "Cross" by James Patterson and am about 1/2 way through it. Tonight, I'm watching CNN live from Louisiana with Anderson Cooper. It's absolutely heartbreaking to see what affect this oil spew is doing to the wildlife.

National News

Oil Spill

From watching CNN tonight, it's reported that BP personnel have all gone home. Lovely, just lovely. Anderson Cooper of CNN reported that he personally called the number for BP in Louisiana where one person is in the office and taking messages. He also called their Houston office where he received voice mail.

Here are the many stories I found today, the two listed seem to be the best for information.

This site seems to be up on all goings on right up to the day. Their latest article is OIL SPILL GULF OF MEXICO - Latest News on the Deepwater Horizon BP Oil Spill.

Another site, the article is titled BP tries again to cap well as protests against oil giant set to start. President Obama speaks to Larry King (CNN) regarding the oil spill - Obama told CNN's Larry King on Thursday that "BP caused this spill ... [and] they're responsible" for paying cleanup costs. "My job is to make sure they're being held accountable," he said.

RIP Rue McClanahan

Rue McClanahan, best known for role as "Blanche Devereaux" from the"Golden Girls," has died after suffering a massive stroke, she was 76.

Arizona

Governor Jan Brewer is on a mission and she's going non-stop. She visited the White House today and stated her case there. She's also corresponding with Senator Schumer (D-NY) read that correspondence here.

Unemployment News

Just when you thought things couldn't get any worse - along comes an article to prove you wrong. This is really depressing especially since many of us have been out of work for over a year and in addition to that, the baby boomers are the hardest hit when it comes to finding a job.
Read the article, Hope of Finding Work Halved After 6 Months of Unemployment - One in four unemployed Americans has been actively looking for work for a year or more by clicking here.

On the lighter side, I found a website called CareerSpeed. A link will be permanently placed under (Un)employment to the right of this page. From the Career Speed page, they offer We offer tools to help you write resumes, prepare for job interviews, find a career, and more.

This site seems as though they could be a "one stop" site for all your "getting employed" needs.

Local News

4th of July In Denver

The 2010 GUIDE TO FOURTH OF JULY IN DENVER can be found by clicking here.

Aurora Cultural Services

Did you know that you can find Aurora Museums, Art Center, Concerts in the park, Historic Sites, and the Leisure Living Summer Brochure online? Did you know that Aurora has museums? The concerts in the park appeal to all ages. See all these things mentioned by clicking here.

My Verizon Update

There is no news today.

As always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!

BOYCOTT BP!

It's June already! (even though it is the 2nd)

What a nice day today. The Powerball Lottery was up to $264 million dollars today, at least last I heard. Did you get your tickets? I did.

Notes from the Home Front

Tonight, I started another book. This time it's "Cross" by author James Patterson. Since Patterson's books are easy reads, within just over an hour I've read 78 pages. His books are usually always around 300-400 pages. This book features Alex Cross who is now employed by the FBI and formerly the Washington DC Police Department. I like this character.

Even with the temperature in the high 70s today, I used my oven. Usually ovens heat up the whole place, but this cook-top stove never heated up the kitchen or anywhere else. I was thrilled.

Also, I follow many companies and people on twitter. One company, @JoyfulBathCo, holds a contest every Wednesday with #bathday. I received my winnings of bath salts today - 'Nilla Buttermilk. This is the 3rd time I won! Check them out! They have a variety of bath salts in yummy fragrances and will be coming out with a line of natural bath soaps. Check out their website: www.joyfulbathco.com.

National News

Oil Spill

Well - from watching the news today, I saw that the rotary saw that BP was using to cut the pipe broken down and they will try it again tomorrow. I really hope they cap the spew of oil soon. BP not only has to pay for the clean up but should pay each and every business for loss of income.





And the beat goes on in Arizona. People are protesting against SB1070 and others are praising its inception. One person who praises it is Gabriela Saucedo, she's an immigrant who became a citizen of the United States back in 1991. Read the article titled: Si, se puede! — Yes, We Can Enforce the Arizona Law and watch the video .... Gabriela makes some VERY good points.

Unemployment News

There were 4 articles that caught my eye today.

The first was The jobless recovery; the numbers don't add up. Many people, including myself, left comments how on we see the numbers and confirm that they don't add up. Read all about it! While you read, look at the map and see if you think your states numbers are correct.

The second article is aptly titled - They Still Don't Get It and you know that they really don't. So waste no time reading this one.

The third article explains about the 99er's - For ‘99ers,’ a job can feel like a mirage
Maxed out of benefits, some still haven't found work. I look and apply for jobs as required and more but theoretically, I do believe that these ads could just be a mirage. Read the article and share your comments on it.

Last but certainly not least, Chronic Joblessness Bites Deep -
Long-Term Unemployment Hits New High, Cuts Across Income Levels, Demographics. This article has a picture of an unemployment man - a picture can tell a thousand words. Read the article.

Local News

Denver Museum of Art

The King Tut exhibit is coming to Denver. For tickets to the King Tut Exhibition at the Denver Art Museum, visit www.TutDenver.com.

My Verizon Update

Today, still no phone calls or emails from anyone there. I did check my account with them and found that my air card is now on a month to month basis. Something has been done. I have one email to write to them, oh, two. Then I have to visit another site and make my complaint. More to follow!

As always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!!
DON'T ALLOW CORPORATIONS USE YOU AS THEIR DOORMAT!

Memorial Day Weekend

The temperature got up to 99 degrees today. Gassed up my vehicle for the first time in over a month for $2.56/gallon for 85 Octane.

Notes from the Home Front

The cucumber plants got their first trip to the balcony today. They are really growing nicely and I think that I noticed that they might be sprouting some flowers soon. The pots of cucumber plants are back in the living room for the night as it is too cold, in my opinion, for them to be out there.

Unemployment News

I'm not quite sure about this article - House approves unemployment benefits bill
Legislation faces uncertain fate in Senate. Hopefully, it's good news for the long term unemployed, like me. Read about it here.

National News

Oil Spill

BP says one thing but the live feed from the pipe says another. Do you really think that the gusher of oil is slowing down or not? I believe it's not.

What is becoming of our country?

My Verizon Update

No email from Adrian stating that the contract on my air card is going to be terminated without payment of early termination fees. They are really trying my patience.

That's all from here, it's late, I'm tired.

As always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!
DON'T ALLOW ANYONE TO PUSH YOU AROUND!

Tornados Touch Down in Colorado

Early today the weather was hot and humid. We don't normally get high humidity here in Colorado. This afternoon and part of this evening we had tornado warnings, tornado watches and a tornado touch down up in the northeast area.

Notes from the Home Front

Not much to tell about today. Because of the high winds in my area, I was unable to cut the wood for the trellis on the balcony. I'm hopeful for tomorrow. The green pepper plants will need to be transplanted soon.

National News

Banks

I just can't believe this but - Senate Democrats Pass Bill Allowing Govt to Collect Addresses, ATM Records of Bank Customers. Why would they even want that information? Read it all.

BP - oil spill

An interesting article: What You Haven't Heard About BP!! Perhaps this tell it all.

Unemployment

No news on any bill passing. Many of us are feeling as though something might come through, yet others feel differently. Long term unemployment Tiers need to be passed.

Resume Tips

This article comes from the Resume Bear blog - Tips for Creating Resumes That Provide a Competitive Edge. Read about it here.

My Verizon Update

As you all may have guessed, the rep who called me yesterday didn't call as promised today. Tomorrow, I will call Kevin at the Corporate Office once again. Some one there better start getting it right. To add insult to injury, my Pantech UM175 and the Verizon software didn't want to work this morning. It took me about 20 minutes of doing a little troubleshooting to get online.

I'm a powerful consumer and Verizon will be sorry if my issues are not resolved.

As always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!

XCel aka X-Tortion RAPING Us AGAIN!

Gorgeous day today, in the mid 70s. Blue skies and sun shining! Overall just nice!

Fun Fact of the Day

Today is Towel Day! Yes, Towel Day! Read all about it! Interesting!

Notes from the Home Front

Yes folks, I did get to Home Depot today. Instead of spending a ton of money on a pre-made trellis, I purchased some lattice pieces for 35 cents a piece. Since they are 4 foot, I will use 3 of them and then use the others for cross bars to tie my gladiolas to. Final cost: $2.27. Pictures forthcoming.

Soon I'll be transplanting the green pepper plants, they are really growing now. When I lived in NY, I had a friend who grew them, they had nice sweet red peppers all year round. That's my hope too!

National News

Environmental Protection Administration and Gulf Oil Spill

BAH! I say! The EPA is a classic example of why good people don't have jobs. It is also an example of poor organization, and LAZY employees. Don't miss out - this is a MUST READ article: Regulators Conducted Lax Oversight of Oil Industry, Report Uncovers - read it here.

Here's another story from CBS News: Big Oil's "Cozy Relationship" with Inspectors
My thoughts on this are that this is disgusting on all levels. Not only is the oil spill and what is being done ridiculous but the workers at EPA should be fired. There are many hard working people, such as myself and millions of others, who would LOVE to DO THEIR JOB! but we are out of work, and these horrible workers are getting paid. This is another MUST READ article found here.

Obama and Border Control

I believe that this came about due to the Arizona law SB1070 on illegal immigration. It's about time that our government takes the reins and protects our borders. The money that goes to illegal immigrants could pay for keeping our country afloat. At least there would be no debate about where unemployment funds would come from.

Read up on this: Obama To Send 1,200 National Guard To Border here.

Unemployment News

Petition to DC

The 99er’s Petition Delivered to Washington - not all is as it seems. Read all about it.

Obama calls for Stimulus II

Extra! Extra! This is a must read! Obama Administration Has Called For Additional Unemployment Insurance Included In Stimulus II - get an eyeball on it at US Unemployed Blog.

Tech News

Do you use WordPress for your blog? Interesting article on how to protect your blog from being hacked: 8 Free Plugins to Protect Your WordPress Blog from Being Hacked. The article is compliments of "Fried Beef". If you aren't signed up for their FREE emails - go to their page and DO IT NOW!

Local News

XCel - I call them X-Tortion!

XCel Energy aka X-Tortion is at it again. WHO gives them permission to hike up our rates? It's bad enough that they tack on almost 4x your residential usage in fees. This is an outrage. For those of you who use this monopolizing utility - call XCel, call DORA, call the PUC, call the governor, write to your state Senators and House Reps. Express your DISPLEASURE! If you need assistance with phone numbers or email addresses, please leave a comment and I'll post what you need. Don't lay down and allow XCel (X-Tortion) kick you!

Here's the story: Xcel Energy Launches 2-Tier Rate Plan For Summer. Read it here.

DENVER SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVALS: 2010 GUIDE

We all look for things to do when the weather becomes nice. Here are some ideas.

IKEA

IKEA is coming to Denver! The store is slated to open in the Fall of 2011. The clearing of land has begun. One local news station stated that IKEA will employ 400 employees and will take applications online over this summer.

School Superintendents

Some of these superintendents, imho, are ridiculous. Did you know that some of them are TAKING raises while others in the district are being laid off or services for your children are being cut. SHAME!

I didn't get all the district names but here's a list:
1) Aspen - $15,844 went to Diana Sirko. She accepted this money even though there are cuts to her schools.
2) Mary Chesley refused her raise for this school year.
3) Eagle county superintendent received $15,750 on top of $175,000 salary.
4) Jefferson County's Cindy Stevenson will skip a $40,000 bonus.
5) Tom Boasberg is owed $70,000 from last year but has not made a decision on what he will do about it.

Comments and suggestions are always welcome. If you like my blog, please tell your friends. Thank you for reading along.

My Verizon News - Update

While in Home Depot, a Verizon Executive Services representative called to let me know that she's working on the issue. She'll call me back tomorrow. This is the 10th or 11th person I have talked to now. This issue has gone on for OVER a month. What happened to resolving the problem by the end of the phone call? More on this tomorrow.

As always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!!!

Unemployment, Oil Spill, Free Checklists

Temperatures were up in the 80s today. Gorgeous blue skies, and the sun was shining throughout the day.

Notes from the Home Front

The weather may have been good but the winds were up to 50 mph. I had the balcony door open about 5 inches while the wind was blowing. It blew so hard that my balcony screen door opened. With that, my plant stand fell over - what a mess that made. All is cleaned up but there was dirt everywhere. Thankfully no damage was done to the cucumber and green pepper plants. Because of the wind, it was my decision to stay home today opposed to going to Home Depot. Because of commitments for tomorrow, I'll get there on Monday.

Unemployment News

From the Oakland Press - Deal to extend unemployment benefits may be reached soon - from the Oakland Press. Congress goes on vacation again on May 27. I hope there is something in place before that. Last time they went on break, unemployment was supposed to be addressed and wasn't until they were back in session. To read the story from the Oakland Press - click here.

Oil Spill in the Gulf of Mexico

It makes me wonder WHY survivors of the oil rig fire would be "allegedly" held in seclusion and coerced into signing legal waivers. Something smells a bit fishy to me and that wasn't meant as a pun. Read the article entitled: Deepwater Horizon survivors allege they were kept in seclusion after rig explosion, coerced into signing legal waivers by clicking here.

Energy News

Do you know what is meant by using 1 kilowatt hour? What does it really mean? Read the article here, and find out how your home usage equates out. Very interesting article.

Checklists

Are you the type of person who makes checklists for yourself? You know, those lists where when something is done, you check it off. There are some free checklists for everything you do, find that site here. Enjoy!

Not too much to tell about tonight.

My Verizon News - Update

For those of you who are techies and those of you who aren't so savvy, you may understand this. Today around 1pm, I used Windows Task Manager to close my VZManager for my air card (broadband) usage. I also closed other programs that I use while online. The ONLY online program that was left open was my email. At approximately 3pm, I saw an email come through. It surprised me because I had ended the process on my VZManager which would cause it to shut down completely.

Well guess what! After calling Verizon tech support, checking all the preferences etc., uninstalling the software, rebooting my computer, then downloading new software and checking to make sure that the usb device was working properly, the tech and I wonder why the usb "modem" is still active. Who would have thought that there was a bug in the software. Seems as though each time I thought I was shutting it down, in reality, I wasn't. Each time I have called Verizon I told them that this new software release wasn't working like the old version. This proves it, and no wonder I've been going over my 5 gig. The quick fix to the problem is to pull the air card (usb modem) out of the usb port to guarantee my internet connection IS disconnected. Who knew?

The tech I spoke with is going to research this problem, write up a ticket on the problem and will credit me should I go over the 5 gig this month.

Of course, being a strong-willed consumer, I have a list of agencies, etc. that will hear my complaints on this.

Anyone else out there have a Verizon air card?

So folks, that's a wrap!

As always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!

Unemployment, Tech News, Resume Posting

It's 10pm and 67 degrees, although it feels much warmer than that. Was a gorgeous day today.

Notes from the Home Front

Tomorrow, there will be a trip to my local Home Depot for some lengths of 1 x4 wood to build a trellis for the gladiolas. Today, after putting them outside for a while, the wind blew them over and unfortunately, they look pretty sad.

I received another email stating the one of my applications is in the hands of the hiring manager, that makes two applications for the same place. Something has to give soon!

Employment/Unemployment News

Today, I saw a link to this story - Root Cause of Voters’ Revolt: Congress, Obama, GOP Ignore 11 Million Jobless, it comes to us via the blog at alternet.org. Please click here to read the whole article.

Borrowed with permission from Infoployment - they now have a Resume Distribution Service
One-Stop Resume Posting. This is fabulous news since their site gets a lot of traffic. You can check them out by clicking here. For everyone's convenience, I have added their site to my lists on the right of this page under (Un)Employment.

National News

Gay/Lesbian Rights

The South Bend Tribune Thinks Gay Couples Are Unfit for Print. Please boycott this paper because apparently they don't yet realize that gays and lesbians are people too, and VERY newsworthy. If you choose to read their article, please click here.

House Floor Proceedings

How would you like to work for 4 minutes on a Friday and get paid for a whole day? Sounds GREAT, doesn't it? Well today the House of Representatives did just that. I'm appalled!

Here is how their day went:
9:04 A.M. -
The Speaker announced that the House do now adjourn. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on May 24, 2010.

ADJUSTMENT OF THE WHOLE NUMBER OF THE HOUSE - Under clause 5(d) of rule 20, the Chair announced to the House that, in light of the resignation of the gentleman from Indiana, Mr. Souder, the whole number of the House is 431.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG - The Chair led the House in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

9:03 A.M. -
The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.

9:02 A.M. -
Today's prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Daniel Coughlin.

9:00 A.M. -
The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

Local News

Andrew Romanoff

Those of you who live in Colorado know that Andrew Romanoff is running for Michael Bennet's US Senate seat. Today, Andrew gives his view on the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Credits for this story go to The Denver Post.

Romanoff wants oil companies to pay more after spills - read the entire article here.

Unemployment - segment by the Denver Channel ABC 7

Read on what Don Mares, Director of Unemployment has to say. Apparently, he doesn't understand that people who have lost their unemployment benefits have not been counted as still unemployed (if they are) and what percentage rate this would add to the "advertised" state rate.

On this page, State Jobless Rate Inches Up To 8 Percent State Rate 1 Percent Lower Than National Average, you will find a link to Unemployment by State, Tips on Job Survival, A story on which jobs are safest and one viewer story: I lost my job. To read the article and get information on the links - click here.

Tech News

Google's GMail

Great article from friedbeef.com - How to Check if Your Gmail Account Has Been Hacked - nice instructional page with screen shots for checking your Gmail account. I strongly suggest you view the article.

My Fight With Verizon Update

Liz promised to call me today, even if she had no news from their data expert. Did I get a call? NO! This is how they treat a loyal customer of over 10 years. Next week, I will be exposing Verizon and my entire fight - this has gone on too long, my first contact on the issue of my air card was back in the latter part of April. For this issue, I will make a separate blog post. Within that blog post, I will expose employees by name as well as the emails and notes from my log.

There will also be a segment on my fight with Verizon on Fricking Fees and Amazing Deals.

That's it for another day!

As always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!

Grey's Anatomy - Season Finale

Nice day today, temperatures in the 70s, skies were blue, the sun was bright.

Notes from the Home Front

Plants are all doing well. The green pepper sprouts will need transplanting soon.

Do any of you watch Grey's Anatomy? Tonight is the season finale, the episode is two hours long. Good thing I was able to record it.

Unemployment News

I hadn't seen much chatter today about unemployment but there was an excellent article posted on US Unemployed blog. It's titled: Tier 5 Unemployment Emissaries Are Being Dispatched To Washington, H.R. 4213 May Be Coming To Final Passage, & For Millions, H.R. 4213 Currently Does Not Help Them and can be read by clicking here.

National News

It seems as though the oil is still spewing from the pipe in the Gulf of Mexico. It is my opinion that Ken Salazar, Department of the Interior, is not doing all he can to obtain information from BP.

Local News

Tonight, I attended a town hall meeting with a dear friend of mine. These town hall meetings are organized by State Senator Morgan Carroll, House Reps Su Ryden, and Karen Middleton. The topic for this meeting was "Tips to Save Money". The panelist came from a variety of backgrounds. It was an excellent time and a good learning experience.

Even though this years session is over, the Aurora Town Hall Meetings are held each month.

Consumer Issues

Verizon News

Since the corporate office didn't call me back, I called them. Spoke to yet another person, this makes 7 or 8 now (not including emails from a variety of others). She promises me that she'll call me tomorrow to advise what she has found out. As soon as there is a resolution, I will expose the problem I'm experiencing with Verizon in its entirety. Stay tuned folks - this is a doozy!

Hmm .. back to watching Grey's!

As always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!

Mexican laws - worse than Arizona

Today was another beautiful day in the neighborhood. A little bit of rain fell but otherwise, sun shining, blue skies and warm.

Notes from the Home Front

Today, I realized that a trellis is needed to hold the gladiolas up, I'm very sure that I can make one cheaper than buying one. When I do, of course, I'll take pictures of it. A trellis might also work well once the cucumber plants start sprawling out of their planters.

Tonight, I found this funny television show on CBS "I Get That A Lot". Celebrity guests act like regular workers in an assortment of stores. I think it's hysterical! Anyone else watch it?

World News

What you may have never known about Mexico's laws, but will now!

The following is an excerpt from the article: "Under the Mexican law, illegal immigration is a felony, punishable by up to two years in prison. Immigrants who are deported and attempt to re-enter can be imprisoned for 10 years. Visa violators can be sentenced to six-year terms. Mexicans who help illegal immigrants are considered criminals."

How about that? Read the whole article explaining how Mexican President Felipe Calderon denounced as "racial discrimination" the Arizona Law - click here.

So tell me - WHO has tougher laws on Illegal Immigration? Of course, I, personally, wouldn't ever think of going to Mexico to live there or even try to. Would YOU? All in all, I STILL applaud Governor Jan Brewer of Arizona and hope that SB1070 wakes up our government in Washington DC to act upon closing/securing OUR borders.

Oil Spill in the Gulf of Mexico

In other world news, what do you think should be done with BP? Why wouldn't the Coast Guard, a US of A entity not hand over the tapes of the oil spill since the day it happened? This is classic for our government and it REALLY bothers me. It is also my opinion from watching the tapes on Katie Couric's CBS report that there is a barely a difference between the oil spewing from the original break in the pipe and now that it is semi-plugged. If you've seen it, you'd know that you don't have to be an expert on the subject.

Unemployment News

Florida

Some people in Florida are happy tonight and actually might know where their next meal is coming from, others were not so fortunate. Continue to read the article entitled: Florida extends unemployment benefits, but not all are eligible, here.

Tier 5, Senator Reid and Passage of HR 4213

Quoted from the article: "The Tax Extenders bill (H.R.4213) that is likely to come before Congress sometime over the next week is the vehicle that will extend unemployment eligibility till the end of 2010. While that’s good news for millions who will benefit from knowing their unemployment won’t be ending till year’s end, it’s of little condolence to the millions who have and will exhaust their benefits."

Please read the whole article by clicking this link.

Representative Levin Predicts Action on Extenders by Week's End

The following is a quote from the article: "If the Republicans want to filibuster a jobs-tax extender bill that contains an extension of unemployment insurance, contains COBRA benefits, that provides reimbursements for the doctors that take care of Medicare patients, I'd like to see that," she said. "I'd like to see that debate on the floor of the Senate and I think that we do ourselves a disservice by not standing up and calling their bluff."

Read the entire article by clicking on this link.

My Weekly Phone Calls

Instead of making my regular phone calls today, I decided to take a different approach. Yesterday, on each Senators or Representatives page on facebook or in reply to a tweet by them, I commented and tweeted about the percentage rate of Colorado unemployment. I suggest we start taking more direct and drastic measures. In addition to commenting on their pages on facebook, I also posted a question for the television stations on their walls. Although, I wonder why The Denver Channel - ABC channel 7 - no longer has a wall to post on. I did find another way to post to them and received a comment from them in reply.

Tomorrow, I start on the newspapers!

In a way, I'm forcing them in public to report on this VERY important issue.

You've heard of Unemployment and Employment - Now we have Infoployment!

Today, in the midst of reading tweets, I came across a blog site named: iBlog |The Infoployment Blog, they are a Job Search and Interview Information Services Company. You might find them interesting, so click here and read. Tell them I sent you!

Local News

Yahoo Buys Denver Based Associated Content

According to the article, Associated Content was listed as being a creation of Luke Beatty in either 2004 or 2005 - the one article lists 2004 and another link from it listed 2005.

Associated Content is an online presence that offers freelancers a chance to telecommute while submitting original text, video, images and audio to their content website. Who knew? You can read about the sale and what Associated Contact is all about here.

Tech News

Online Privacy

Have you ever wondered about what information others can obtain on you? Check out your results by searching at www.spokeo.com. I checked out my personal information there. Some of it is correct while much more of it is incorrect.

What will they think of next?

Consumer News

Verizon Wireless

After I receive a phone call tomorrow from the Corporate Office, I will expose the difficulties I have had with Verizon over a few weeks time.

Apple

While tweeting today, one of my fellow Tweeps was having an issue with their Mac Book and iPhone. This person tweeted about having a problem. I suggested that she call customer service back and ask for a technical supervisor, which she did. Yes, her problem was solved. YAY!

Never allow a customer service representative or anyone from "corporate america" push you around when you are calling them with an issue. Start a log, write down the date and time you called, and person's name. Write down why you called them, what happened on the phone call and if you were satisfied. Keep this log for future reference, you may need it in case the issue reappears. If you continue to get the "run-around", ask for a supervisor, and log it! If you still aren't satisfied, go higher to the Corporate Office as they might have an Executive Services department that WILL solve your problem. One thing that is VERY important to remember is that YOU the customer are contributing to the salary of the person who is a representative of the company you called. Don't let them forget that without you, there would be no job for them!

That wraps up another day of blogging -

As always,

STAND UP AND BE HEARD!