Charter has been providing me with TV service for over a year now. I have even made them my Internet provider and telephone provider. I have also had a TiVo and used a Cable Card. Charter pretty much hates supporting Cable cards and in the past year they have replace mine twice and it is acting up again.
Recently Charter has been advertising to call them to lock in a special price for 2 years. Also AT&T has been advertising U-Verse. So today I deiced to see what deal I could get. Charter gave me no problem and a price around $135 per month for 2 years. AT&T U-Verse is a total different story.
I priced U-Verse online and I come up with a price of $171 / month. I decide to online chat with their sales department and this is what I am told (all chats took place on 12/5/2009):
AT&T product specialists are happy to assist you with your questions. Click below to begin your live text chat. Chat representatives will not have access to your personal account. This service is provided to you under AT&Ts Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.
Welcome to AT&T. My name is Jeff S..
Jeff S.: I will be happy to answer your questions regarding AT&T U-verse products. To start, could you please tell me which state you're located in and the zip code?
Ryan: NC 28655
Ryan: I currently have no ATT service. I have everything through charter
Jeff S.: I would like to thank you for visiting AT&T!
Jeff S.: How may i assist you today?
Ryan: Charter has offered me a plan on a fixed price for 2 years. They are not my favorite in may aspects and I waited over 2 years now on Uverse.
Ryan: I want to see what kind of plan you can offer me similar to their setup.
Ryan: I currently have Basic and Expanded through them. I also have HD and their price included the extra HD channels and DVR service.
Ryan: I also have unlimited local and long distance on telephone and the price they offered includes 10 meg Internet.
Jeff S.: You can also go to www.2wire.com and hit speed to check the speeds you are receiving now.
Jeff S.: Were you able to take a look at the site?
Ryan: yes
Ryan: I am currently on a different network than my home network so the results are not accurate.
Jeff S.: No problem. For TV there is the U200, Internet the Elite 6.0 Mbps would be similar and the U-voice comes with unlimited calling.
Ryan: I would need the 12Mbps plan. I need the upload speed and I used to have the 6 meg service from att and it was part of the reason I went to charter. I work from home and have to send a file to my office every evening and it kills my connection.
Ryan: What is the best price I can get on the U200 With all the HDs + DVR + an extra box with 12M and Phone?
Jeff S.: The best price would be offered online.
Jeff S.: The price would be about $159.
Ryan: So I figured that at 171/month
Ryan: Charter is offering everything at a fixed price of 135/ month.
Jeff S.: I'm sorry for the delay. I'll be right with you.
Jeff S.: You can receive lock in the U-verse service for 12 months as well with the $30 discount.
Ryan: So that would be the U200+HD+HD Premium Tear+extra box+12M+Telephone for 141/month with 12 month commitment?
Jeff S.: That is correct.
Ryan: let me run this by my wife.
Jeff S.: Sounds good.
Ryan: Thanks for your assistance.
After I talk it over with my wife, I decide to go with AT&T. I go online to do the order, but I cannot find the $30 discount for the 12 month commitment. So I do another online chat:
AT&T product specialists are happy to assist you with your questions. Click below to begin your live text chat. Chat representatives will not have access to your personal account. This service is provided to you under AT&Ts Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.
Welcome to AT&T. My name is Mickey.
Mickey: I will be happy to answer your questions regarding AT&T U-verse products. To start, could you please tell me which state you're located in and the zip code?
Ryan: Hi Mickey. I spoke with Jeff earlier about service and I told him I would come back after I talked to my wife.
Mickey: Could you please tell me which state you're located in and the zip code?
Ryan: NC 28655
Mickey: Are you an existing AT&T Home Phone customer?
Ryan: No. I am looking to move all my services from Charter.
Mickey: Are you interested in AT&T U-verse Voice online today?
Ryan: I need voice, Internet, and TV
Mickey: That's great!
Mickey: Thank you for sharing this information and considering AT&T U-verse Services online today.
Mickey: Have you decided on a plan that you would like to order online today?
Ryan: We looked at the U200 with HD + DVR with 2 receivers, 12MB Internet, and unlimited phone.
Mickey: That's a really great choice!
Ryan: With Jeff I figured it to be 171 / month but I decided to leave the $5 HD Premium off.
Mickey: Please click on "Build Your Own Bundle" to select the plans of your choice.
Ryan: The thing that sold me on the package is Charter is offering me a similar package for $135 month but Jeff said "You can receive lock in the U-verse service for 12 months as well with the $30 discount.
Mickey: If you order U200 + Max Internet + Voice Unlimited online today with me you will get $400 back and there is no contract with AT&T U-verse services.
Ryan: That was available when I spoke with jeff earlier too.
Mickey: I can understand. At this time, there are no such promotions; however, if you order U200 + Max Internet + Voice Unlimited online today with me you will get $400 back.
Ryan: The way I am looking at it is Charter is offering me $135/month locked for 2 years. Which come to $3240. You are offering me $166/month -$400 which comes to a 2 year cost of $3584.
Mickey: I can certainly understand your concern. Prices are regular with no contract.
Ryan: The way I was figuring it earlier with Jeff was $141 / month for the first year then $171 / month for second year -$400 with a 2 year cost of 3344
Ryan: I am not willing to pay an additional $300 over 2 years on TV.
Mickey: AT&T U-Verse U-200, Voice Unlimited and Max package with 2 additional receivers HD service would be around $173 a month online today.
Ryan: Thanks but no thanks.
Mickey: I can offer additional $50 back (from my department) on top of $400 back. So you will get total $450 back with me.
Mickey: To offer you that additional $50 back please provide me with your order confirmation number, full name, address with zip code and name of the AT&T U-Verse plans at the end of the chat.
Mickey: How does that sound to you?
Ryan: That is still more than I am willing to pay.
Mickey: AT&T U-Verse U-200, Voice Unlimited and Max package with 1 additional receivers HD service would be around $166 a month online today.
Ryan: Unless I can get the service for $141 or less per month with the $400 back it is a no deal. U200+HD+DVR with 2 receivers, 12 MB Internet + unlimited telephone.
Mickey: U200 + Max Internet + Voice Unlimited + one additional receiver + HD service would be around $166 a month.
Mickey: By ordering online you will get $10 off on Internet for 6 months.
Mickey: You can save $10 more for six months by going with Paperless Billing. You will just need to Enroll in Auto-pay and paperless billing at U-verse Central after U-verse installation.
Mickey: There is no contract with AT&T U-Verse service. This means you can cancel at any time without penalty.
And my computer battery died.
So AT&T apparently does not want me as their customer so I guess I will stay with Charter.
Here is another Chat that I had.
AT&T product specialists are happy to assist you with your questions. Click below to begin your live text chat.
Chat representatives will not have access to your personal account. This service is provided to you under AT&Ts Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.
Welcome to AT&T. My name is Lance.
Lance: I will be happy to answer your questions regarding AT&T U-verse products. To start, could you please tell me which state you're located in and the zip code?
you: 28655 NC
Lance: Thank you for sharing this information and considering AT&T U-verse Services online today.
Lance: Are you an existing AT&T Home Phone customer?
Ryan: No
Lance: Are you interested in AT&T U-verse Voice online today?
Ryan: I am interested in the whole package.
Lance: I'd be happy to assist you with that.
Ryan: Let's start with TV.
Lance: In order to better assist you, allow me to ask you a few questions.
Ryan: I need HD and DVR. No movie Channels. Local and TLC, Discovery, And Animal Planet.
Lance: Are you interested in premium movie channels like HBO & Cinemax?
Lance: I'd be happy to assist you with that.
Lance: What do you (or will you) use the Internet for in your home (i.e. downloading music, watching videos, gaming, pictures)?
Ryan: I need the fastest internet.
Ryan: I need telephone.
Lance: How many computers are you looking to connect?
Ryan: 4
Lance: Thank you for answering all my questions.
Lance: Based on your needs, I recommend that you order, AT&T U-Verse U-200, Voice Unlimited and Max package is only $149 a month online today.
Lance: Does that sound like something you would be interested in?
Ryan: It is.
Lance: Let's go ahead and place your order today online.
Ryan: Ok. I have been going through the site and adding everything. I have everything in my cart.
Ryan: I am at $166. beacuse I added HD and an additional reciever.
Ryan: I spoke with someone on chat earlier and I was told that I could get an addional $30 off a month if I did an annual commitment. How do I get that?
Lance: If you order online AT&T U-Verse U-200 Triple Package(TV, Internet, Voice) or any above Triple Package. Your order qualifies for the $400 Visa Reward Card.
Lance: How does that sounds to you?
Lance: The $30 Off for the Internet has expired.
Ryan: That might be the deal breaker. The reason behind this is that Charter has offered me a simialr package for $134.99.
Ryan: A previous rep told me today that if I did an annual commitment I could get an additional $30 off which would bring me to $136 a month with ATT
Lance: Our offers are hotter than ever and won’t last forever and bound to change anytime! Remember, we offer plans with no term commitments. This means you can cancel at any time without penalty
Lance: I understand and you are right. But, currently the offer you are looking for has been expired and a new promotion is been released out.
Lance: If you order online AT&T U-Verse U-200 Triple Package(TV, Internet, Voice) or any above Triple Package. Your order qualifies for the $400 Visa Reward Card.
Lance: If you order online AT&T U-Verse U-200 Double Package(TV, Internet) or any above Double Package. Your order qualifies for the $350 Visa Reward Card.
Lance: How does that sounds to you?
Ryan: So you are telling me that the offer I was offered a couple of hours ago is no longer valid.
Lance: Yes, the offers are bound to change anytime. I suggest you to take advantage of the new promotion. Before, you miss out these hot on going promotion.
Ryan: I will stick with what I have. Apparently ATT does not whant my business.
Lance: I apologize for the frustration that has been caused.
Lance: Due to my limitations I am unable help you with that.
Ryan: Here is part of what I was told earlier:
Ryan: Ryan: Charter is offering everything at a fixed price of 135/ month.Jeff S.: I'm sorry for the delay. I'll be right with you.Jeff S.: You can receive lock in the U-verse service for 12 months as well with the $30 discount.Ryan: So that would be the U200+HD+HD Premium Tear+extra box+12M+Telephone for 141/month with 12 month commitment?Jeff S.: That is correct.Ryan: let me run this by my wife.
12.06.2009
12.03.2009
Fast Customer Service from Amazon.com
It amazes me how fast and usually great Amazon.com Customer Service is. Today I sent them a complaint about a package not being delivered timely. Actually this is the second package this week. In a matter of minutes they responded.
Complaint (from their web email):
Comments:This is the second item that I have ordered in the past week that has failed to be delivered on time. This is very upsetting to me as I have never had this problem with Amazon before. The first item that I order was last Friday and was supposed to be delivered on Saturday but was not delivered until yesterday. The extra shipping was refunded but I still had to go and purchase the item somewhere else and then return Amazon package. This particular item was shipped overnight because it is for my father's computer and someone was scheduled to install the item tonight. According to UPS, this item has not even made it into his state. This not only looks bad on Amazon but for me too, especially after I bragged about how great of a company Amazon is. I have been a Amazon Prime member for 2 years and my 3rd year is set to start this month. I have been debating on renewing if after these incidents. I know that you will look into my claim and rectify this to the best of your ability.
Response:
Hello,
I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused. I've checked the tracking on your order #105-1110509-XXXXX and see that your order was shipped by carrier UPS and it's scheduled to be delivered by December 3.
You can view the available tracking information from the Order Summary in Your Account at the address below: (Retracted) I'll keep track of your package and send another e-mail by December 4, if I see any delivery problems. Right now, your package is on time and in transit. UPS may not location scan all of their shipments, which occasionally limits the available tracking data. Tracking information may not appear until the package has been delivered. I've contacted UPS to get more information about where your order might be. As soon as we hear back from them, we'll send you an update by e-mail. I expect that we'll have more information for you within short time, but if it's taking longer than expected, please feel free to follow up with us again. Please visit the following link to provide the information we requested: (retracted) Also, I'm forwarding your feedback about this issue to our shipping department--I know they'll consider your feedback as we plan for further improvements of our service. We're aware that our choice of delivery services reflects on our business as a whole, and we appreciate your feedback.
Again, I'm very sorry for the trouble with your recent orders. Thanks for your patience and understanding while we look into this issue. We look forward to seeing you again soon. Please let us know if this e-mail resolved your question: (Retracted)
Please note: this e-mail was sent from an address that cannot accept incoming e-mail.
To contact us about an unrelated issue, please visit the Help section of our web site.
Best regards,
Srilatha K.Amazon.com
We're Building Earth's Most Customer-Centric Company
Complaint (from their web email):
Comments:This is the second item that I have ordered in the past week that has failed to be delivered on time. This is very upsetting to me as I have never had this problem with Amazon before. The first item that I order was last Friday and was supposed to be delivered on Saturday but was not delivered until yesterday. The extra shipping was refunded but I still had to go and purchase the item somewhere else and then return Amazon package. This particular item was shipped overnight because it is for my father's computer and someone was scheduled to install the item tonight. According to UPS, this item has not even made it into his state. This not only looks bad on Amazon but for me too, especially after I bragged about how great of a company Amazon is. I have been a Amazon Prime member for 2 years and my 3rd year is set to start this month. I have been debating on renewing if after these incidents. I know that you will look into my claim and rectify this to the best of your ability.
Response:
Hello,
I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused. I've checked the tracking on your order #105-1110509-XXXXX and see that your order was shipped by carrier UPS and it's scheduled to be delivered by December 3.
You can view the available tracking information from the Order Summary in Your Account at the address below: (Retracted) I'll keep track of your package and send another e-mail by December 4, if I see any delivery problems. Right now, your package is on time and in transit. UPS may not location scan all of their shipments, which occasionally limits the available tracking data. Tracking information may not appear until the package has been delivered. I've contacted UPS to get more information about where your order might be. As soon as we hear back from them, we'll send you an update by e-mail. I expect that we'll have more information for you within short time, but if it's taking longer than expected, please feel free to follow up with us again. Please visit the following link to provide the information we requested: (retracted) Also, I'm forwarding your feedback about this issue to our shipping department--I know they'll consider your feedback as we plan for further improvements of our service. We're aware that our choice of delivery services reflects on our business as a whole, and we appreciate your feedback.
Again, I'm very sorry for the trouble with your recent orders. Thanks for your patience and understanding while we look into this issue. We look forward to seeing you again soon. Please let us know if this e-mail resolved your question: (Retracted)
Please note: this e-mail was sent from an address that cannot accept incoming e-mail.
To contact us about an unrelated issue, please visit the Help section of our web site.
Best regards,
Srilatha K.Amazon.com
We're Building Earth's Most Customer-Centric Company
9.18.2009
8.29.2009
Dems Push For Nationalizing Health Care at Teddy Kennedy's Funeral
This was ridiculous. The Dems. cannot even let him be berried before they start running his name into the ground. This kid is going to look back in 10 years and realize that he was a prop.
6.18.2009
6.15.2009
5.23.2009
5.18.2009
4.10.2009
Hail at Lake Martin, AL
I was at my dad's house visiting and a bad hail storm came through. Here are some videos and links to pictures.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/weathersinc/sets/72157616604742210/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/weathersinc/sets/72157616604742210/
4.07.2009
4.01.2009
3.23.2009
3.19.2009
NEW PREAMBLE TO THE CONSTITUTION
The following has been attributed to State Representative Mitchell Kaye from GA. This guy should run for President one day...
"We the sensible people of the United States, in an attempt to help everyone get along, restore some semblance of justice, avoid more riots, keep our nation safe, promote positive behavior, and secure the blessings of debt-free liberty to ourselves and our great-great-great-grandchildren, hereby try one more time to ordain and establish some common sense guidelines for the terminally whiny, guilt ridden, delusional, and other liberal bed-wetters. We hold these truths to be self evident: that a whole lot of people are confused by the Bill of Rights and are so dim they require a Bill of NON-Rights."
ARTICLE I: You do not have the right to a new car, big screen TV, or any other form of wealth. More power to you if you can legally acquire them, but no one is guaranteeing anything.
ARTICLE II: You do not have the right to never be offended. This country is based on freedom, and that means freedom for everyone -- not just you! You may leave the room, turn the channel, express a different opinion, etc.; but the world is full of idiots, and probably always will be.
ARTICLE III: You do not have the right to be free from harm. If you stick a screwdriver in your eye, learn to be more careful; do not expect the tool manufacturer to make you and all your relatives independently wealthy.
ARTICLE IV: You do not have the right to free food and housing. Americans are the most charitable people to be found, and will gladly help anyone in need, but we are quickly growing weary of subsidizing generation after generation of professional couch potatoes who achieve nothing more than the creation of another generation of professional couch potatoes.
ARTICLE V: You do not have the right to free health care. That would be nice, but from the looks of public housing, we're just not interested in public health care.
ARTICLE VI: You do not have the right to physically harm other people. If you kidnap, rape, intentionally maim, or kill someone, don't be surprised if the rest of us want to see you fry in the electric chair.
ARTICLE VII: You do not have the right to the possessions of others. If you rob, cheat, or coerce away the goods or services of other citizens, don't be surprised if the rest of us get together and lock you away in a place where you still won't have the right to a big screen color TV or a life of leisure.
ARTICLE VIII: You do not have the right to a job. All of us sure want you to have a job, and will gladly help you along in hard times, but we expect you to take advantage of the opportunities of education and vocational training laid before you to make yourself useful.
ARTICLE IX: You do not have the right to happiness. Being an American means that you have the right to PURSUE happiness, which by the way, is a lot easier if you are unencumbered by an over abundance of idiotic laws created by those of you who were confused by the Bill of Rights.
ARTICLE X: This is an English speaking country. We don't care where you are from, English is our language. Learn it or go back to wherever you came from!
ARTICLE XI: You do not have the right to change our country's history or heritage. This country was founded on the belief in one true God. And yet, you are given the freedom to believe in any religion, any faith, or no faith at all; with no fear of persecution The phrase IN GOD WE TRUST is part of our heritage and history, and if you are uncomfortable with it, TOUGH!
"We the sensible people of the United States, in an attempt to help everyone get along, restore some semblance of justice, avoid more riots, keep our nation safe, promote positive behavior, and secure the blessings of debt-free liberty to ourselves and our great-great-great-grandchildren, hereby try one more time to ordain and establish some common sense guidelines for the terminally whiny, guilt ridden, delusional, and other liberal bed-wetters. We hold these truths to be self evident: that a whole lot of people are confused by the Bill of Rights and are so dim they require a Bill of NON-Rights."
ARTICLE I: You do not have the right to a new car, big screen TV, or any other form of wealth. More power to you if you can legally acquire them, but no one is guaranteeing anything.
ARTICLE II: You do not have the right to never be offended. This country is based on freedom, and that means freedom for everyone -- not just you! You may leave the room, turn the channel, express a different opinion, etc.; but the world is full of idiots, and probably always will be.
ARTICLE III: You do not have the right to be free from harm. If you stick a screwdriver in your eye, learn to be more careful; do not expect the tool manufacturer to make you and all your relatives independently wealthy.
ARTICLE IV: You do not have the right to free food and housing. Americans are the most charitable people to be found, and will gladly help anyone in need, but we are quickly growing weary of subsidizing generation after generation of professional couch potatoes who achieve nothing more than the creation of another generation of professional couch potatoes.
ARTICLE V: You do not have the right to free health care. That would be nice, but from the looks of public housing, we're just not interested in public health care.
ARTICLE VI: You do not have the right to physically harm other people. If you kidnap, rape, intentionally maim, or kill someone, don't be surprised if the rest of us want to see you fry in the electric chair.
ARTICLE VII: You do not have the right to the possessions of others. If you rob, cheat, or coerce away the goods or services of other citizens, don't be surprised if the rest of us get together and lock you away in a place where you still won't have the right to a big screen color TV or a life of leisure.
ARTICLE VIII: You do not have the right to a job. All of us sure want you to have a job, and will gladly help you along in hard times, but we expect you to take advantage of the opportunities of education and vocational training laid before you to make yourself useful.
ARTICLE IX: You do not have the right to happiness. Being an American means that you have the right to PURSUE happiness, which by the way, is a lot easier if you are unencumbered by an over abundance of idiotic laws created by those of you who were confused by the Bill of Rights.
ARTICLE X: This is an English speaking country. We don't care where you are from, English is our language. Learn it or go back to wherever you came from!
ARTICLE XI: You do not have the right to change our country's history or heritage. This country was founded on the belief in one true God. And yet, you are given the freedom to believe in any religion, any faith, or no faith at all; with no fear of persecution The phrase IN GOD WE TRUST is part of our heritage and history, and if you are uncomfortable with it, TOUGH!
3.13.2009
3.12.2009
Dr. Office
The thing that makes me madder than hell with doctor offices is they never keep their appointment time except for one doctor that I go to. When you have sn appointment at 3:30 that is the time you should see the doctor. That should not be an estimate of when you will go back.
If doctors would do this, their patients would be much happier. My GI doctor says to arrive 30 minutes before your appointment so they can do all of the paperwork and vitals and the doctor walks into the exam room at that time.
What brings this up is that I arrived at my 3:30 eye appointment at 3:00. It is now 3:50 and I still have not even left the lobby!
If doctors would do this, their patients would be much happier. My GI doctor says to arrive 30 minutes before your appointment so they can do all of the paperwork and vitals and the doctor walks into the exam room at that time.
What brings this up is that I arrived at my 3:30 eye appointment at 3:00. It is now 3:50 and I still have not even left the lobby!
3.07.2009
Pork spending *UPDATED 3/7/09*
Here are some of the porkiest projects in the Queen Pelosi / Jester Obama's Bankrupt America Bill. These are from Senator John McCain twitter feed and his TOP TEN PORKIEST PROJECTS. This list has been very popular and has come out multiple times with different projects on each. Here is a list of some.
$10 Million in 13 earmarks for PMA group, which has been raided by the FBI for corruption
$7.1 Million for the conservation and recovery of endangered Hawaiian sea turtle populations
$3,806,000 for a Sun Grant Initiative in SD
$2,128,000 for a Ferry Boat, San Juan, PR
$2.1 Million for the Center for Grape Genetics in New York
$2 Million “for the promotion of astronomy” in Hawaii
$1.9 million for the Pleasure Beach Water Taxi Service Project, CT
$1.7 Million "for a honey bee factory" in Weslaco, TX
$1.7 Million for pig odor research in Iowa
$1,427,250 for genetic improvements of switchgrass
$1,284,525 for Rolls Royce
$1 Million for mormon cricket control in Utah
$951,500 for Sustainable Las Vegas
$951,500 for the Oregon Solar Highway
$950,000 for a Convention Center in Myrtle Beach, SC
$900,000 for fish management
$819,000 for catfish genetics research in Alabama
$650,000 for beaver management in North Carolina and Mississippi
$632,000 for the Hungry Horse Project
$475,000 to build a parking garage in Provo City, Utah
$400,000 for copper wire theft prevention efforts
$385,000 for the Utah World Trade Center
$380,000 for lighthouses in Maine
$380,000 to revitalize downtown Aliceville, AL
$380,000 for a recreation and fairground area in Kotzebue, AK
$380,000 for a recreation and fairground area in Kotzebue, AK
$332,000 for the design and construction of a school sidewalk in Franklin, Texas
$300,000 for the Montana World Trade Center
$285,000 for the Discovery Center of Idaho in Boise, ID
$250,000 to enhance research on Ice Seal populations
$238,000 for the Polynesian Voyaging Society in Hawaii
$237,500 for a new museum in San Jose, CA
$228,000 for “streetscaping” in Bridgeville, PA
$209,000 to improve blueberry production and efficiency in GA
$200,000 "tattoo removal violence outreach program to could help gang members or others shed visible signs of their past"
$190,000 to rebuild a dock in Gold Beach, OR
$190,000 for the Berkshire Theatre in Stockbridge, MA
$190,000 for the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, WY
$190,000 to build a Living Science Museum in New Orleans, LA
$190,000 for the Guam Public Library in Hagatna, Guam
$167,000 for the Autry National Center for the American West in Los Angeles, CA
$150,000 for a rodeo museum in South Dakota
$150,000 for lobster research
$143,000 to teach art energy
$143,000 for Nevada Humanities to develop and expand an online encyclopedia
$143,000 for the Historic Jazz Foundation in Kansas City, MO
$143,000 for the Dayton Society of Natural History in Dayton, OH
$122,821 for the Greater Toledo Arts Commission
$118,750 for a building to house an aircraft display in Rantoul, IL
$100,000 for the regional robotics training center in Union, SC
$100,000 for the Central Nebraska World Trade Center
$95,000 for the state of New Mexico to find a dental school location
$95,000 for Hawaii Public Radio
$59,000 for Dismal Swamp and Dismal Swamp Canal in Virginia
$75,000 for the “Totally Teen Zone” in Albany, GA
$47,500 to remodel and expand a playground in Ottawa, IL
$10 Million in 13 earmarks for PMA group, which has been raided by the FBI for corruption
$7.1 Million for the conservation and recovery of endangered Hawaiian sea turtle populations
$3,806,000 for a Sun Grant Initiative in SD
$2,128,000 for a Ferry Boat, San Juan, PR
$2.1 Million for the Center for Grape Genetics in New York
$2 Million “for the promotion of astronomy” in Hawaii
$1.9 million for the Pleasure Beach Water Taxi Service Project, CT
$1.7 Million "for a honey bee factory" in Weslaco, TX
$1.7 Million for pig odor research in Iowa
$1,427,250 for genetic improvements of switchgrass
$1,284,525 for Rolls Royce
$1 Million for mormon cricket control in Utah
$951,500 for Sustainable Las Vegas
$951,500 for the Oregon Solar Highway
$950,000 for a Convention Center in Myrtle Beach, SC
$900,000 for fish management
$819,000 for catfish genetics research in Alabama
$650,000 for beaver management in North Carolina and Mississippi
$632,000 for the Hungry Horse Project
$475,000 to build a parking garage in Provo City, Utah
$400,000 for copper wire theft prevention efforts
$385,000 for the Utah World Trade Center
$380,000 for lighthouses in Maine
$380,000 to revitalize downtown Aliceville, AL
$380,000 for a recreation and fairground area in Kotzebue, AK
$380,000 for a recreation and fairground area in Kotzebue, AK
$332,000 for the design and construction of a school sidewalk in Franklin, Texas
$300,000 for the Montana World Trade Center
$285,000 for the Discovery Center of Idaho in Boise, ID
$250,000 to enhance research on Ice Seal populations
$238,000 for the Polynesian Voyaging Society in Hawaii
$237,500 for a new museum in San Jose, CA
$228,000 for “streetscaping” in Bridgeville, PA
$209,000 to improve blueberry production and efficiency in GA
$200,000 "tattoo removal violence outreach program to could help gang members or others shed visible signs of their past"
$190,000 to rebuild a dock in Gold Beach, OR
$190,000 for the Berkshire Theatre in Stockbridge, MA
$190,000 for the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, WY
$190,000 to build a Living Science Museum in New Orleans, LA
$190,000 for the Guam Public Library in Hagatna, Guam
$167,000 for the Autry National Center for the American West in Los Angeles, CA
$150,000 for a rodeo museum in South Dakota
$150,000 for lobster research
$143,000 to teach art energy
$143,000 for Nevada Humanities to develop and expand an online encyclopedia
$143,000 for the Historic Jazz Foundation in Kansas City, MO
$143,000 for the Dayton Society of Natural History in Dayton, OH
$122,821 for the Greater Toledo Arts Commission
$118,750 for a building to house an aircraft display in Rantoul, IL
$100,000 for the regional robotics training center in Union, SC
$100,000 for the Central Nebraska World Trade Center
$95,000 for the state of New Mexico to find a dental school location
$95,000 for Hawaii Public Radio
$59,000 for Dismal Swamp and Dismal Swamp Canal in Virginia
$75,000 for the “Totally Teen Zone” in Albany, GA
$47,500 to remodel and expand a playground in Ottawa, IL
2.28.2009
2.24.2009
Dear Mr. President - V
President Obama:
I would like to offer you a solution to the housing problems and foreclosures. My plan would help homeowners, the banks, and the entire economy.
We would need to create a national lending bank. You could simply call it the BOO (Bank of Obama). Then we would have to create some simple lending rules. They would be similar to most loans but with a few more rules. The only way to get a BOO loan would to be a current lender recommending it instead of a foreclosure. The homeowners would have to agree to have their loan transferred to BOO. BOO would have a fixed interest rate of around 6-7% and terms of up to 40 years or being paid before the homeowner turns 65. The biggest stipulation with a loan from BOO is that if you do not make your payments, wages could be garnished but if you loose your job you do not have to make payments but interest would still be charged for up to 1 year with a minimum of 1 year waiting before you would get relief benefit again, If employment is not found in 1 year, assets could be seized just as the IRS does. A BOO loan cannot be included in a bankruptcy.
Think of the benefits that this would provide... an almost guaranteed return of 6-7%. Once someone gets a BOO loan, BOO would be guaranteed money from their income. This would also allow people to stay in their homes longer and in brief unemployment that ability to continue to pay other debts.
I would like to offer you a solution to the housing problems and foreclosures. My plan would help homeowners, the banks, and the entire economy.
We would need to create a national lending bank. You could simply call it the BOO (Bank of Obama). Then we would have to create some simple lending rules. They would be similar to most loans but with a few more rules. The only way to get a BOO loan would to be a current lender recommending it instead of a foreclosure. The homeowners would have to agree to have their loan transferred to BOO. BOO would have a fixed interest rate of around 6-7% and terms of up to 40 years or being paid before the homeowner turns 65. The biggest stipulation with a loan from BOO is that if you do not make your payments, wages could be garnished but if you loose your job you do not have to make payments but interest would still be charged for up to 1 year with a minimum of 1 year waiting before you would get relief benefit again, If employment is not found in 1 year, assets could be seized just as the IRS does. A BOO loan cannot be included in a bankruptcy.
Think of the benefits that this would provide... an almost guaranteed return of 6-7%. Once someone gets a BOO loan, BOO would be guaranteed money from their income. This would also allow people to stay in their homes longer and in brief unemployment that ability to continue to pay other debts.
2.23.2009
Dear Mr. President - IV
President Obama:
I hope what I heard today is not true. I thought that you were a fairly smart person, even though I do not agree with you most of the time. After what I heard today I hope that it is not true.
Today I heard that your next thing is to reduce the national debt. How can you reduce that national debt when you are "giving tax breaks", passing the largest spending package ever, and facing increasing unemployment. In case you don't understand, you cannot call up your buddy Ben and tell him to fire up the printing press.
I hope what I heard today is not true. I thought that you were a fairly smart person, even though I do not agree with you most of the time. After what I heard today I hope that it is not true.
Today I heard that your next thing is to reduce the national debt. How can you reduce that national debt when you are "giving tax breaks", passing the largest spending package ever, and facing increasing unemployment. In case you don't understand, you cannot call up your buddy Ben and tell him to fire up the printing press.
2.19.2009
Dear Mr. President - III
President Obama:
Why are you doing all of these bailouts? They are doing nothing but moving America to a more and more socialist country. They are providing a national well fare system that people will rely on. What is going to happen when people stop lending to America? We need people to be encouraged to work. Sitting at home and receiving a paycheck from the government is not an encouragement.
My solution is simple. It is a complete overhaul of the federal government tax system. I know that this will put a lot of people out of jobs for a while but it will create many more jobs.
First, cancel out all of the stimulus packages that have been passed in the past few years.
Second, eliminate all federal income taxes for everyone. You should have enough money from the stimulus packages to cover what the government needs for now. By eliminating federal income taxes, everyone that pays taxes now will see an immediate increase in income. (I know people without jobs do not get helped, but that comes in a minute). With the increased income, people with jobs will spend more, eat out more, and start paying their home loans. The effect of this will stimulate the banking system and require businesses to hire more people which will eventually drastically drop the unemployment rate.
Next, create a national sales tax system and make the sales tax on everything that is new and not a food item. 15% - 20% would not be a bad rate. Now everyone pays their equal share of taxes. Existing homes would be purchased. Americans would begin to save more. The banks will be able to make more loans. The economy would completely revamp itself.
Finally, create a monthly rebate to everyone. This rebate could eliminate welfare and other assistant programs. Everyone is treated equally by the government. This could help eliminate homelessness. The poor get the same tax breaks as the rich. The rich get the same help from the government as the poor. Everyone would be treated equally.
Why are you doing all of these bailouts? They are doing nothing but moving America to a more and more socialist country. They are providing a national well fare system that people will rely on. What is going to happen when people stop lending to America? We need people to be encouraged to work. Sitting at home and receiving a paycheck from the government is not an encouragement.
My solution is simple. It is a complete overhaul of the federal government tax system. I know that this will put a lot of people out of jobs for a while but it will create many more jobs.
First, cancel out all of the stimulus packages that have been passed in the past few years.
Second, eliminate all federal income taxes for everyone. You should have enough money from the stimulus packages to cover what the government needs for now. By eliminating federal income taxes, everyone that pays taxes now will see an immediate increase in income. (I know people without jobs do not get helped, but that comes in a minute). With the increased income, people with jobs will spend more, eat out more, and start paying their home loans. The effect of this will stimulate the banking system and require businesses to hire more people which will eventually drastically drop the unemployment rate.
Next, create a national sales tax system and make the sales tax on everything that is new and not a food item. 15% - 20% would not be a bad rate. Now everyone pays their equal share of taxes. Existing homes would be purchased. Americans would begin to save more. The banks will be able to make more loans. The economy would completely revamp itself.
Finally, create a monthly rebate to everyone. This rebate could eliminate welfare and other assistant programs. Everyone is treated equally by the government. This could help eliminate homelessness. The poor get the same tax breaks as the rich. The rich get the same help from the government as the poor. Everyone would be treated equally.
2.18.2009
Dear Mr. President - II
President Obama:
Why are you bailing out the millions of people that are in the chance of foreclosure? I do not think it is fair. If someone has fallen on hard times it would not bother me if you helped them out with a loan or a tax break. Do not tell me that they were mislead by mortgage brokers. That is their own fault. When I made my loan this year, I consulted several places and people to find out what is best for me.
What makes me mad is that they people who bought way more than they can afford are going to be helped. What about me who did everything correctly. I am not going to be helped or given a handout.
I would love to have a brand new, high end, luxury sports car. I know that I cannot afford a $100,000 car, so instead I bought a car that cost less that $20,000... this is what I can afford. The same goes for my house. I would love to have a $500,000 house but I only built what I can afford... Now I am being penalized for following the rules and doing what is right.
Why are you bailing out the millions of people that are in the chance of foreclosure? I do not think it is fair. If someone has fallen on hard times it would not bother me if you helped them out with a loan or a tax break. Do not tell me that they were mislead by mortgage brokers. That is their own fault. When I made my loan this year, I consulted several places and people to find out what is best for me.
What makes me mad is that they people who bought way more than they can afford are going to be helped. What about me who did everything correctly. I am not going to be helped or given a handout.
I would love to have a brand new, high end, luxury sports car. I know that I cannot afford a $100,000 car, so instead I bought a car that cost less that $20,000... this is what I can afford. The same goes for my house. I would love to have a $500,000 house but I only built what I can afford... Now I am being penalized for following the rules and doing what is right.
2.17.2009
Dear Mr. President
President Obama:
Do not bow down to Queen Pelosi and Prince Reid. They care not of you. You are not their superior, you are their colleague. They will bend you and any rules that you make. They are in it for themselves not for the American people. They want their $30 million for saving the rodents and billions for ACORN.
If I were you, I would quit listening to them and start listening to the Americans that elected you (which I did not) and keep your promises that you made and you were elected on. If you would, maybe there would be less partisanship.
Do not bow down to Queen Pelosi and Prince Reid. They care not of you. You are not their superior, you are their colleague. They will bend you and any rules that you make. They are in it for themselves not for the American people. They want their $30 million for saving the rodents and billions for ACORN.
If I were you, I would quit listening to them and start listening to the Americans that elected you (which I did not) and keep your promises that you made and you were elected on. If you would, maybe there would be less partisanship.
1.27.2009
1.26.2009
1.09.2009
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