The Curious Case of the Stimulus Package
As of today, Obama has been president for a month. It has been a very difficult month for his administration and the Republicans being absolutely impossible to work with and appease. Unsurprisingly, the Republican Party is "disappointed" stating, "Obama's first month has been marked by wasteful spending, failed bipartisanship, and questionable ethics." Funny how quickly they forget what a failure the last eight years have proven to be. Nevertheless, the stimulus package has passed and hopefully things will start to improve slowly, but surely. That being said, I'm truly shocked of how hard the economy is tanking. It is affecting everyone everywhere. Even the little bubble I live in. Let's discuss.
First, and most important to me, is the MBTA, the loathsome public transportation of Boston, which has been in debt since, about, forever. Now, they are thinking of reducing service and raising fares, which is ridiculous. If they have services cuts, less people will ride; if they raise prices, less people will ride. These are inconveniences that can be prevented. As I have no experience in this sector or business all together, I really can't offer any advice other than look at the past. The MTA, New York City's public transportation, was in debt and full of old, useless subway cars, about 30-20 years ago, but have managed to improve substantially. MBTA, pay attention! Next on my importance scale are jobs. No, I haven't been laid off (yet). Thank goodness. However, the president of our hospital held a Town Meeting to discuss how the economy is affecting us. Due to the current financial conditions, there will be a hiring and income freeze, among other things. Moreover, a friend lost his job and has been unable to find a new one. Additionally, as of today, the country's unemployment rate is nearly 5 million. Ugh. Also, I was recently looking at flights home (to Fort Myers, FL) and was surprised to find a shortage of non-stop flights from Boston. Not only are the flights more expensive but now they're longer, too! Looks like I won't be making a trip home for a while. Finally, I am saddened to have noticed many small shops and restaurants closing in the Boston area.
I'm sorry to be such a downer. There is a silver lining in these dark, stormy clouds known as The Recession. For example, whenever I go shopping I can reason my purchases since I am only really doing it to help our economy out. Or at least that what's I tell my mother. Yet another pro are the deals to be had in restaurants. All over Boston, restaurants are so desperate for customers that they have discounts and specials, such as an Italian restaurant that has $6 take-out dinners on weekdays. Being someone who dislikes cooking greatly, I have taken full advantage of this. Furthermore, Restaurant Week is coming to Boston and it's cheaper than ever. I'm pumped.
Speaking of silver... and gold... and diamonds... it's time for The Academy Awards. As such, I am going to predict the winners/ who I think should win.
Actress in a Supporting Role: Marisa Tomei - The Wrestler
Actress in a Leading: Kate Winslet - The Reader
Actor in a Supporting Role: Robert Downey Jr. - Tropic Thunder
Best Cinematography: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Best Original Screenplay: Happy-Go-Lucky
Best Director: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Best Picture: Slumdog Millionaire
In other news, I'm reading "I Was Told There'd Be Cake" by a CC alum, Sloane Crosley. The book is a collection of essays, a bit like David Sedaris's books. It has had many good reviews and I've enjoyed it so far. The only thing I'm disappointed in is that nowhere in book does she mention Connecticut College (although I haven't finished I have confirmed this with someone who has). She does mention a "small liberal arts college in New England" but that's it. Come on, represent!
Peace out.