• Getting kids involved in a team sport, like soccer.  I’m worried about the time commitment, but we generally agreed it’s essential for a child’s development.
• Creating a team web page. Facebook Page is more popular now. However, not everyone is on Facebook – especially the older folks.
• College investment.  Is it worth it to have higher education degree and entry level job is less than $60k?  It may just pay off in the long run.
• More IT jobs are available.  We’re not sure why this is happening, but recruiters are having a hard time finding qualified people in IT.
• Finding jobs in China. With the bad economy in USA, more people are moving to China. Standard of living is rising in China.
• Costco’s American Express has a cash-back limit on gas.  Apparently, the limit is $3000 per year – then it switches to 1% instead of 3%.

This article was posted on Rudy Amid's Blog:

Lunch Bits – Edition 42

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Nobody wears a watch any more.
Nobody wears a tie either.
Nobody shops at a bookstore.

It’s about Marketing to Nobody. Essentially, he’s saying there’s a growing number of people changing their habits and preferences, yet companies out there still trying to cater the same old crowd, hoping they would do the same old things.

I haven’t worn a tie to work since 1994.  I haven’t worn a watch since junior high¹.  I haven’t bought a book from a bookstore in 8 years, thanks to Amazon.

I can add more to this list of things I  haven’t done in a long time:

• I don’t watch live TV.
• I don’t go to the movie theaters.
• I don’t buy a brand-name desktop PC.
• I don’t drink coffee.
• I don’t wear jewelry.
• (Update) I don’t go to the library.

I’m willing to try anything new and different.  So, who’s going to cater a nobody like me?

Photo Credit: helloiamtwo

This article was posted on Rudy Amid's Blog:

I’m A Nobody

1. Back in the 80′s

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Well, apparently the good folks in China had the same idea, and they’ve actually started to implement EV battery swapping stations in Guangzhou.

Things change really fast in China because they have the money and cheap labor to do many of the infrastructure projects.  Need a new airport or improve it? Let’s build it and it’ll be done in less than 4 years. Want a high speed train? It’ll be done quickly and it’ll be to places that everyone cares about. Want to host the summer Olympics?  Let’s renovate everything and build a new stadium.

Seriously, can the western nations learn from this?  Of course we can: Lower the cost and stop using politics to delay what needs to be done.  Now, let’s get to work!

This article was posted on Rudy Amid's Blog:

A to Z Efficiently

1. But later on, I managed to crash the car and lost it.

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But, I digressed…

The thought of spending doesn’t stop at the latest electronics gadget. I want to go to Disneyland, and going to end up spending more there.  We want to take a boat cruise and spend a lot more there.  Heck, I even want to get a new car since I’m not happy with the performance of this Civic! (Read: Mid-Life crisis!)

Then there’s the obligatory Mother’s Day, Daughter’s Birthday, and my oh-so-favorite, Father’s Day gifts!

When will this spending end?  There’s only one way to curb this and it’s to come up with a budget.  I don’t have a bottomless pit of a bank account and I live on my bi-weekly paychecks.

This is why I still don’t have a DSLR camera.  I still don’t have a new TV. I still don’t buy into Blu-Ray and “upgrade” my DVD libraries. I still don’t buy new movies.

Instead, what I’m doing is cutting down on my eating out.  I’ve started to eat healthy and cut down big meals (especially dinner). I’ve cut the cord by using HDTV antenna and Netflix/Hulu. I’ve cut my phone bills from $25 to $4/month by using Ooma Vo-IP.

Now I’m left with things I do need to spend.  I still can’t telecommute and have to pay extra for gas since it’s at a ridiculous price of $4+/gallon¹. I need to upgrade my desktop computer because I do more video editing.  And let’s not forget the stuff I need to fix around the house (and garden).

Thinking out loud here. Either way, I don’t think I’ll ever stop spending money.

Photo Credit: lms0814

This article was posted on Rudy Amid's Blog:

Need to Spend

1. Like in 2008.

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I had a few questions.  It’s a complex issue that required much debate, discussion, and research.  I’ve tried my best to summarize the answers, according to my understanding.  If I missed some points, please let me know via comments.

What is wrong with the current health care system in America?

The US Census Beureau said¹  in 2007, there were 45.7 million people in the US without health insurance.  The numbers may be skewed due to a large number of illegal immigrants in this country.  Nevertheless, millions are still uninsured.  That means, if they get sick, they will have to somehow pay out of their pocket – and medical expenses are costly.

Why are medical costs so expensive?

Depending who I talked to, the blame is towards medical malpractice lawsuits and corporate greed.  Hospitals and doctors are forced to take an insurance policy to protect themselves against frivolous lawsuits.  It’s not uncommon for a patient to go after the medical provider for the lack of service he/she is receiving.  The number of those lawsuits may not number in millions, but the dollar values certainly go beyond that.  That cost is passed on to the consumers.

What is wrong with the insurance companies?

People blamed corporate greed is the main problem.  It is, the all too common argument, that bosses and CEOs are generally money grubbing individuals.  But, come to think about it, corporations are in business to make a profit for their shareholders – so I can’t really blame them for doing their jobs.  I’m not dismissing the fact there are some corporations that pushes aside moral and ethical judgment by not helping their customers.  It’s just too easy for anyone to blame the entire industry because of a few bad ones.

Why not let the government take over and give everyone free health care?

Surely if it works for Canada, it works for the US, right?  Well, as a young Canadian in the 80′s, I was certainly impressed with Canada’s health care system.  It was generous and headache free.  I knew a Canadian woman, living in the US, who went back to Canada (temporarily) to get free service for her pregnancy.  I heard many seniors who moved back to Canada to get their free service.  I’ve known many folks emigrate from Asia to Canada, just to get their free service.  The free health care is just too good to pass.

The flip side of the coin is the increasing high cost of socialized health care.  Canadian government taxes the population up to 50% (or more) of their gross income².  There are also additional sales tax to support it.  For the young and healthy, this is a heavy burden.  The same trend goes to other socialized medicine based countries, like the UK and France.  The cost of living is just too high.  When I was out of college, it was a daunting task to prepare for the future, when I could not even keep my hard earned income.

Why the rush to make the American Health Care Bill  happen?

I think the slumping economy has a lot to do with it.  When it was prosperous during Bill Clinton days, he tried to introduce it and failed miserably.  People just didn’t see the need to pay the extra taxes to support the needy.  Now, when there are millions of people out of the job and without health insurance, they’re scared they will go bankrupt and die from the lack of medical treatment.

There’s also the political angle.  This bill is Obama’s major campaign promise. His political career depends on it, and he only has 4 years³ to make it happen.  Getting it signed sooner, than later, is his number #1 goal – and he succeeded.  He got it done through special deals and scare tactics.

How does it affect me?

It’s too early to tell, but someone will have to pay for it.  For starters, it’ll be the rich, or those who make more than $200,000 per year.  This will include small business owners.  Another words, those who create jobs and work hard to earn a decent living.  It may not be apparent now, but as the government drives away entrepreneurs and high income earners, it will be shouldered on the middle income earners – like myself.  Eventually it’ll be on my child, and my child’s children – assuming they’re doing well themselves, not asking for government handouts.

Conclusion

Who knows how long America will end up paying for this monstrosity of 938 billion dollar bill!  The US is already spending a large chunk of its GDP on health care, and this bill will surely raise it to new records.  Many people seem to think the government can do no wrong, and have endless supply of money.  Many people will rather rely on the government’s entitlement programs, than to actually work hard and be independent.  Most do not realize (nor care) this is merely the politicians’ agenda, milking the system for what it’s worth, and get re-elected in the coming years.

I wish every responsible American citizens good luck in finding the sanity in all of this.

Photo Credit: Serfdom – Wikipedia

Update: Found this video (below) on Politico.com with Wisconsin Rep. Paul Ryan, who is a member of the House Budget Committee.  He described the new health care bill as “Fiscal Frankenstein” because it takes money from other social programs that are not suppose to be touched in the first place!  It’s fiscally irresponsible, and people should be worried about this.

“The point I’m trying to make is when people find the facts, they know there’s something wrong, they know debt’s getting out of control and they know we’ve got to do something to fix it.”

Rep. Paul Ryan

This article was posted on Rudy Amid's Blog:

Finding Health and Sanity

1. In page 27
2. See my comments below for the source data
3. Or 8 years if Obama gets re-elected

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I’m also upset 47% of US Population will pay no federal income tax in 2009!  The numbers show most people who make less than $50k/year will not pay income tax.  Is it tax rebellion, loop-hole, or simply taking advantage of the country’s welfare system?  It’s just disturbing!

What’s also disturbing, America’s total income only came from top 1% of the population!  That’s right, only the rich support this country!  So, not only there are a lot of free-loaders in this country, the current administration intends to make the rich pay more!  So much for working hard to earn the American dream.

Now some of  us may think, the rich can certainly share some of their earnings because they have so much money.  But if it’s from your blood, sweat, and tears, would we be willing to give away your money to the government, just like that?  I rather give my money to the people that I know who need it.  I rather give my money to reputable charities that I know will help others.

I don’t need the government to tell me where to put my money.  I certainly don’t need them to take it from me, forcefully.

Why does the government wants our money?  Besides the obvious, they have a HUGE debt to pay: $2.7 TRILLION in total Federal spending – and it’s increasing!

No wonder people are protesting.  If people disagree that the government is out of control, they must be the free-loaders in this country.

What should this government do?  Here’s my opinion:

1. Make the “Public Option”, an option.  If I don’t use it, I don’t have to pay for it.
2. Similarly, Social Security and Medicare need to be optional.  it’s ridiculous that I have to have 401k and private health insurance to supplement the government’s “benefits”.  Why am I forced to pay those taxes if I’m not going to be able to rely on them?
3. How about using Social Security and Medicare to fund the Obamacare?  That’s assuming the government still has money in those programs to do it.
4. Charitable contributions and Tuition fees must count a lot more towards tax deductions.  If we’re going to be known as a smart and compassionate nation, the government needs to fully foster charities and education.
5. Realize that the US can’t play the world’s policeman, indefinitely.  The other nations, especially NATO, must step up.  This will reduce the US military spending.
6. Stop the “stimulus” or “pork” packages.  They’re just irresponsible spending.
7. More tax breaks for the working middle class.  I’m a middle class worker.  I diligently pay my taxes.  I put in my fair share to help this ailing economy.  I need to be taxed less, not more!

There.  I just solved the US Economic  problem.  I’m waiting for my Nobel Peace Prize.

This article was posted on Rudy Amid's Blog:

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With that said, I like to shop at both Walmart and Target.  They have the best prices in town.  If it absolutely can’t wait, chances are I’ll go to one of these local stores.

Unless it’s electronics, which I’ll promptly visit Fry’s.  But that’s another story…

Anyway, I just found a site with both Walmart and Target growth maps, in America.  They’re animated too!  Interesting to see how both stores started from one-location humble beginnings, into hundreds.  The end result is pretty dramatic.  They’re now big corporations.  Isn’t capitalism great?

Click on the images below to see the animated maps.

Target:

Walmart:

This article was posted on Rudy Amid's Blog:

Shopping

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People

My wife, child, neighbors, co-workers, and friends. They are my local support team.  They matter to me.  I need them.  It’s always nice to have them nearby, ready to listen, help, or be around to hang out with.

Economy

Economic doom and gloom are being reported everywhere in the world.  Overall economy might just improve if people start thinking local, and prosper their own community first.

I’m certainly doing it by going to a local restaurant, grocery store, and services.

One idea that is spreading is the 3/50 Project, promoting local businesses.  It’s a great idea.  I can only imagine the prosperity for a local economy if at least half of us do this.  Check out the poster below.  Participate!

Politics

Other than going to vote every 4 years, what more can I do choose the right leader, or influence the direction of this country?   It’s a dismal none at all.  My friend told me that he wished the Federal government would push all issues to the local government.  That way, if he doesn’t like the way the local government is being managed, he can run for office, get elected, and run it the way he wants it.  It makes sense because as a local resident, I have a better chance to become the Mayor, or City Councilor.  Then, I’ll have a better chance to solve issues affecting my local community.

Media

Traditionally, the newspaper was the way to get world news.  Now, the newspaper business is in trouble and in danger of being obselete.  I haven’t picked up a newspaper since college.  Everything is now on the internet, which is my preference anyway.  However, all is not lost.  Seth Godin said what’s left of the news needs to go local.  I couldn’t agree with him more.  There are enough people with opinions of the world, but not enough people caring for the local communities.  Putting the spotlight on local businesses, people, and issues is a more productive use of the newspaper.

Conclusion

Localizing is a good thing.  The burdens of this world is too much for me to carry.  Being able to influence and contribute to my own local community are good first steps towards improving my overall quality of life.  If everyone starts caring about their neighbors, we will all be in a better world.

This article was posted on Rudy Amid's Blog:

Localizing

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Sarcasm aside, it does pose a good question.  When they have that much money to play with, what would politicians, financial “experts”, and investors like to sink money in?

• Energy – Alternative Fuels and Energy Sources
• Green Initiatives – Recycling, “Corporate Responsibilities”
• Social Programs – Universal Healthcare
• Transportation – Auto Industry, Trains Systems
• Environmental Studies – “Global Warming”

The list may look familiar.  It’s part of Obama’s “stimulus” package.  The new president is focused on social programs, so a lot of money will be poured into them.

I’m sure the causes are commendable, and the intentions are noble.  But, people are just consistently greed.  They’ll find ways to manipulate the system.  They’ll find a way to exploit this for their own gains.  Hence the new bubble.

Warren Buffet said:

Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful.

I have to be cautious of easy money.  I have to worry about making money without discipline or hard work.  When money is involved, everyone will want to a piece of it.  This includes the government.  Nothing in this world is free.

Maybe I’m being too simplistic, but for us, as consumers, we play a big role in this economic recovery.  We need to be smart on what we invest in.  We need to use our money for the good of others, not just ourselves.  When we can be more disciplined (save and invest), and generous (help others) at the same time, we’ll have a better chance of digging ourselves from this mess.

I sure hope our current leaders get this.  Otherwise we’ll need a new set to lead us into the right direction.

Currently, I can think of a few who understands the value of helping others.  With Denny’s leading the way, we’re getting a lot of free food offers.

Photo Credit: Olive_Talique

This article was posted on Rudy Amid's Blog:

Economy: Where Do We Go from Here?

1. Obama’s victory speech: “The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year, or even one term…”

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With the mainstream media constantly touting economic recession, unemployment, and spending cutbacks, it’s easy to believe the doom and gloom.  However, I just got back from the malls this afternoon and it’s so far from the reality that was reported on the news.  I’ve twittered what I saw in the malls in the past couple months.  I still see people packing the malls, buying up a lot of stuff, eat at expensive restaurants¹, and still spending on luxury goods².  I think the reality is so different here in Orange County, California.  Or maybe, the residents here are still in denial about the slumping national economy.  Perhaps the reality is that we have it well here in California, and we’re still able to continue living the good life.

After reading a few articles, apparently life is good outside California as well.  Other towns are experiencing bustling local economy.  Even Amazon is claiming best ever 2008 Christmas season for online shopping.  I suppose consumers are still optimistic about the economy, and still willing to spend money in this otherwise “tough times”.  Consumer spending is probably the ultimate bailout for this ailing economy.  So I’ll go buy more stuff, and do my part to get out of this “recession”.

This article was posted on Rudy Amid's Blog:

Bustling Local Economy

1. Such as Cheesecake Factory
2. Such as Apple products

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