Print
E-mail
Comment
Rate
Two ‘success stories' of Keokuk youth making their way
By Diane Vance /Gate City Staff Writer
A Keokuk teen left high school in her junior year, discouraged about a recent medical diagnosis.
She had moved from the high school to the alternative school at an administrator's suggestion. She still did not like school or find the support and encouragement she needed.
Krystal Hecox took a job as a telemarketer at PRC but was laid off when it closed its doors. She went to Job Corps, knowing she needed some help to find a career.
“I was totally crushed to learn I was not eligible for Job Corps because of my medical condition,” said Hecox. “They referred me to Workforce Investment.
“It's the greatest thing. I tell all my friends about it and think everyone should join.”
The Workforce Investment Act, WIA youth program, helps residents 16 to 21 years old to finish high school, continue on to college or vocational training and find a job.
Along the way, WIA can help young adults with tuition payments, buying textbooks, learn how to write a resume and learn job interview skills.
Workforce Investment has internships at job sites. Participants can be matched to a work experience with their interests and money can be provided for daycare, clothing, gas to get to classes or jobs, or transportation for those without a car.
WIA also offers cash incentives for participants earning a GED and completing other training courses.
“After enrolling at WIA, I got involved in earning my GED,” said Hecox. “I had the best time ever in GED classes. Sally Barrett is the greatest.”
Barrett teaches the GED classes.
Hecox was nervous when she first walked into the WIA offices in Room 501 at Southeastern Community College, Keokuk Campus.
“I felt shy,” she said. “Maria is an easy person to warm up to and she helped me through the forms and figuring out what to do.”
Maria Gapen is an employee training specialist, formerly called career advisors, in Keokuk's WIA office.
“I received a $250 incentive bonus for completing my GED,” said Hecox. “I also received a National Honor Society Award.
“I have seven hours of grammar certification. I've taken ‘Through the Customers' Eyes,' earning certification and a $100 bonus. I plan to take ‘Build Me, Keep Me,' which is about building a computer and we get to keep it at the end of the class.”
Students taking the building a computer class also take a certification test, said Angela Nielson, Lee County WIA recruiter.
“They can be certified A+ for computer repairs,” she said. “The course was going to be a trial class. It's so expensive, we'll probably make it only a one-time class. WIA will purchase all the computers. We can provide transportation for students to Burlington for the class.”
There's also a $100 incentive attached to “Build Me, Keep Me.”
“I'd like to take more classes,” said Hecox. “I'm interested in anything WIA offers.”
Hecox started in Workforce Investment in January.
“If I wasn't in WIA, I probably wouldn't have my GED,” she said. “I'd be hanging around at home, bored. I would not have had the experiences of meeting new people, trying new things. I'm bringing my friends into WIA.”
“Positive peer workers, such as Krystal, can lead classes on a monthly basis,” said Nielson. “Krystal's being trained for that.
“I'm going to check with Sally about Krystal coming back to the GED classes so she can explain the WIA program. It's good to have positive, strong role models. Krystal's also helped make a video.”
Hecox and Robert Brewer, another WIA participant who is now interning at the WIA Keokuk office this summer, recorded a video about the benefits of WIA.
“It's being edited now, then it will be on the WIA Web site,” said Hecox.
“Some of the clips will be used in TV and radio advertising,” said Brewer.
One benefit from the program is having more confidence.
“It's made me more confident, less quiet and shy,” she said. “And I have a more mature attitude about what I want to do. If I want to go out partying, I know I have to go home to get up in the morning to attend class or training.”
Brewer said he's seen Hecox take more responsibility and be more mature.
“My mom is absolutely thrilled that I'm in this program,” said Hecox. “Both my parents were very excited that I earned my GED.
“Hopefully, I'll get lots of experience in lots of jobs. I want to build my resume. I'd like to go to college and study chiropractic. I got high scores in science on my assessment tests.”
WIA administers assessment tests to see where participants' interests, talents and strengths lie.
WIA sets up work experiences with participating businesses. WIA youth can work a total of 500 hours in a WIA work experience with salary paid by WIA. The hours do not have to all be in the same business. Participants might want to explore various areas of interest.
“The work experience can be terminated by either party,” said Nielson.
WIA will pay for a two-year vocational education but not for associate's degrees or four years of college. There are other programs to help participants continue on to four-year colleges and earn degrees.
Joe Cass, also of Keokuk, was referred to WIA in February.
“I earned my GED, learned Microsoft Excel, Microsoft 2000 and took a class ‘Learning to Learn' that helps with how to study, what to expect in college classes,” he said. “I want to attend the ‘Build Me, Keep Me' class. I want to get certified as a computer technician. I'd like to attend college.”
Cass said if he wasn't in the WIA program, he'd still work at Hy-Vee, a job he got before WIA enrollment.
“But otherwise, I'd be sitting at home or probably out getting into trouble,” he said. “WIA has given me goals to work toward. And I've received cash bonuses for completing classes.
“I like the people I've met here. My girlfriend is going to enroll.”
Cass attended a one-day seminar “Making It” Day held in Burlington.
“I heard there would be a guest speaker but I really didn't know what it was about,” said Cass. “We learned about diversity, about the economy and living in a community. We worked on problem solving in teams.”
WIA has helped Cass learn to motivate himself to get to class instead of sleeping after working the 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. stocking shift at Hy-Vee.
“WIA has allowed me to try different things,” he said. “I have used computers before, but I didn't experiment. Now, I've tried a lot of different things on the computer.
“WIA has been flexible, it's helped me with transportation. The program is very helpful. I plan to keep going, keep learning and taking what classes and opportunities that I can.”
Call 319-313-1910 or 524-3221 ext. 1913 to learn more about the Workforce Investment Act program.
She had moved from the high school to the alternative school at an administrator's suggestion. She still did not like school or find the support and encouragement she needed.
Krystal Hecox took a job as a telemarketer at PRC but was laid off when it closed its doors. She went to Job Corps, knowing she needed some help to find a career.
“I was totally crushed to learn I was not eligible for Job Corps because of my medical condition,” said Hecox. “They referred me to Workforce Investment.
“It's the greatest thing. I tell all my friends about it and think everyone should join.”
The Workforce Investment Act, WIA youth program, helps residents 16 to 21 years old to finish high school, continue on to college or vocational training and find a job.
ADVERTISEMENT |
Workforce Investment has internships at job sites. Participants can be matched to a work experience with their interests and money can be provided for daycare, clothing, gas to get to classes or jobs, or transportation for those without a car.
WIA also offers cash incentives for participants earning a GED and completing other training courses.
“After enrolling at WIA, I got involved in earning my GED,” said Hecox. “I had the best time ever in GED classes. Sally Barrett is the greatest.”
Barrett teaches the GED classes.
Hecox was nervous when she first walked into the WIA offices in Room 501 at Southeastern Community College, Keokuk Campus.
“I felt shy,” she said. “Maria is an easy person to warm up to and she helped me through the forms and figuring out what to do.”
Maria Gapen is an employee training specialist, formerly called career advisors, in Keokuk's WIA office.
“I received a $250 incentive bonus for completing my GED,” said Hecox. “I also received a National Honor Society Award.
“I have seven hours of grammar certification. I've taken ‘Through the Customers' Eyes,' earning certification and a $100 bonus. I plan to take ‘Build Me, Keep Me,' which is about building a computer and we get to keep it at the end of the class.”
Students taking the building a computer class also take a certification test, said Angela Nielson, Lee County WIA recruiter.
“They can be certified A+ for computer repairs,” she said. “The course was going to be a trial class. It's so expensive, we'll probably make it only a one-time class. WIA will purchase all the computers. We can provide transportation for students to Burlington for the class.”
There's also a $100 incentive attached to “Build Me, Keep Me.”
“I'd like to take more classes,” said Hecox. “I'm interested in anything WIA offers.”
Hecox started in Workforce Investment in January.
“If I wasn't in WIA, I probably wouldn't have my GED,” she said. “I'd be hanging around at home, bored. I would not have had the experiences of meeting new people, trying new things. I'm bringing my friends into WIA.”
“Positive peer workers, such as Krystal, can lead classes on a monthly basis,” said Nielson. “Krystal's being trained for that.
“I'm going to check with Sally about Krystal coming back to the GED classes so she can explain the WIA program. It's good to have positive, strong role models. Krystal's also helped make a video.”
Hecox and Robert Brewer, another WIA participant who is now interning at the WIA Keokuk office this summer, recorded a video about the benefits of WIA.
“It's being edited now, then it will be on the WIA Web site,” said Hecox.
“Some of the clips will be used in TV and radio advertising,” said Brewer.
One benefit from the program is having more confidence.
“It's made me more confident, less quiet and shy,” she said. “And I have a more mature attitude about what I want to do. If I want to go out partying, I know I have to go home to get up in the morning to attend class or training.”
Brewer said he's seen Hecox take more responsibility and be more mature.
“My mom is absolutely thrilled that I'm in this program,” said Hecox. “Both my parents were very excited that I earned my GED.
“Hopefully, I'll get lots of experience in lots of jobs. I want to build my resume. I'd like to go to college and study chiropractic. I got high scores in science on my assessment tests.”
WIA administers assessment tests to see where participants' interests, talents and strengths lie.
WIA sets up work experiences with participating businesses. WIA youth can work a total of 500 hours in a WIA work experience with salary paid by WIA. The hours do not have to all be in the same business. Participants might want to explore various areas of interest.
“The work experience can be terminated by either party,” said Nielson.
WIA will pay for a two-year vocational education but not for associate's degrees or four years of college. There are other programs to help participants continue on to four-year colleges and earn degrees.
Joe Cass, also of Keokuk, was referred to WIA in February.
“I earned my GED, learned Microsoft Excel, Microsoft 2000 and took a class ‘Learning to Learn' that helps with how to study, what to expect in college classes,” he said. “I want to attend the ‘Build Me, Keep Me' class. I want to get certified as a computer technician. I'd like to attend college.”
Cass said if he wasn't in the WIA program, he'd still work at Hy-Vee, a job he got before WIA enrollment.
“But otherwise, I'd be sitting at home or probably out getting into trouble,” he said. “WIA has given me goals to work toward. And I've received cash bonuses for completing classes.
“I like the people I've met here. My girlfriend is going to enroll.”
Cass attended a one-day seminar “Making It” Day held in Burlington.
“I heard there would be a guest speaker but I really didn't know what it was about,” said Cass. “We learned about diversity, about the economy and living in a community. We worked on problem solving in teams.”
WIA has helped Cass learn to motivate himself to get to class instead of sleeping after working the 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. stocking shift at Hy-Vee.
“WIA has allowed me to try different things,” he said. “I have used computers before, but I didn't experiment. Now, I've tried a lot of different things on the computer.
“WIA has been flexible, it's helped me with transportation. The program is very helpful. I plan to keep going, keep learning and taking what classes and opportunities that I can.”
Call 319-313-1910 or 524-3221 ext. 1913 to learn more about the Workforce Investment Act program.
 |
 |
|
| Everything you need to know about Keokuk's new trash collection system | Community calendar |
Reader Comments
The following are comments from the readers. In no way do they represent the view of dailygate.com.
Graduate Student wrote on Jun 17, 2008 2:40 PM:
" I am ashamed at some of you and your comments. Though I think everyone should go to college and earn their degrees we have to understand not everyone sees that as a way to a better life, especially when they are 18 and fresh out of high school. People make decisions for "now" and not the future usually when they are that age. Does that mean that their lives should be over forever? No. Does that mean if they want to return to school it will be easy? No. After the age of 23 many government grants are not available. So that is where the WIA program steps in to help those who are displaced or needing a little boost to get them back into education. Does the money motivate them more? Of course. If in the long run they have a degree and more experience for a job then I guess its not so bad after all.
The fact is, the money spent on the WIA program isn't what is costing anyone much from their taxes. The war is. The education system, across the board, has seen a decline in government funding, and this is hurting everyone.
Also, shame on anyone who says, "The rich should keep their money." That is a very bold statement, and clearly not one of the principles this country was built on. Though I believe everyone should decide what to do with their money, the fact is, if you are living in a society that has decided to be a community then you help others. You never know when YOU may be the one who needs a helping hand, whether it be from someone else's pocket or just something minor, like if you drop something and someone behind you picks it up and gives it to you. Its called caring, love, and respect. Something that I usually expect every mid-western person to have.
Do you know that we, mid-westerners, are known for being the nicest people in the country? Surely you want to keep that thought alive, don't you?
Before anyone goes judging, remember this, first off 125,00 per year is NOT rich, its better than some, but it is by no means rich. The democratic plan is to tax those over 250,000, and if that is what has to be done to get the economy back on track than that is what it takes.
Also, I would like to inform everyone, I am a graduate student. My MA is in Communications, and I am working towards my PhD. All of my schooling was paid for by student loans. I plan to have a job working in the public affairs office of the government. And I plan to help people....no, let me rephrase that, I plan to commit my life, to helping those in need. I think the most important thing we can do it push for preventative measures to help educate and inform young citizens of the great importance of education. And I think that everyone should look at what they are doing to help build a stronger community. Complaining about the current situation does nothing. But creating a plan does.
So, I urge all of you, find out what you can do to help your community. And if you don't want to help, then please, just realize, until you have been living in the shoes of someone else, you have no right to judge them nor any reason to.
Thank you. I wish you all the best of luck. I hope to someday come back to Keokuk and help build a stronger community. "
The fact is, the money spent on the WIA program isn't what is costing anyone much from their taxes. The war is. The education system, across the board, has seen a decline in government funding, and this is hurting everyone.
Also, shame on anyone who says, "The rich should keep their money." That is a very bold statement, and clearly not one of the principles this country was built on. Though I believe everyone should decide what to do with their money, the fact is, if you are living in a society that has decided to be a community then you help others. You never know when YOU may be the one who needs a helping hand, whether it be from someone else's pocket or just something minor, like if you drop something and someone behind you picks it up and gives it to you. Its called caring, love, and respect. Something that I usually expect every mid-western person to have.
Do you know that we, mid-westerners, are known for being the nicest people in the country? Surely you want to keep that thought alive, don't you?
Before anyone goes judging, remember this, first off 125,00 per year is NOT rich, its better than some, but it is by no means rich. The democratic plan is to tax those over 250,000, and if that is what has to be done to get the economy back on track than that is what it takes.
Also, I would like to inform everyone, I am a graduate student. My MA is in Communications, and I am working towards my PhD. All of my schooling was paid for by student loans. I plan to have a job working in the public affairs office of the government. And I plan to help people....no, let me rephrase that, I plan to commit my life, to helping those in need. I think the most important thing we can do it push for preventative measures to help educate and inform young citizens of the great importance of education. And I think that everyone should look at what they are doing to help build a stronger community. Complaining about the current situation does nothing. But creating a plan does.
So, I urge all of you, find out what you can do to help your community. And if you don't want to help, then please, just realize, until you have been living in the shoes of someone else, you have no right to judge them nor any reason to.
Thank you. I wish you all the best of luck. I hope to someday come back to Keokuk and help build a stronger community. "
grateful mother wrote on Jun 13, 2008 8:39 PM:
" Well said "hand up not hand out" those were my thoughts excactly. Pretty bad when people try to make you feel ashamed that you need help. Forget about the money part of this program for a minute and think about human kindness. Tells you were peoples priorities lie and it isnt with man kind. Im sure glad i didnt grow up with that silver spoon hanging out of my mouth. "
Hand up not Hand out wrote on Jun 13, 2008 9:06 AM:
" To SW,
Don't worry about all of these people bashing on you, it's hard for them to understand when they have been fed with a silver spoon all their lives. I for 1 am a Mid 20's male that was a single parent and went through this program after an injury forced me to leave my job. I understand the needs of these types of programs and I am greatful I found this one. It helped me through the tough times and got me back on my feet. They offered me a hand up and not a hand out like people are referencing here.
At the time of my injury I was working 70-80 hrs per week in a factory so don't tell me about honest days work for a honest days pay. Unfortunately most of you haven't experienced the need of someone helping you and I hope you never do, but just remember if you do then you better not take it because you have too much pride to let someone give you a hand. "
Don't worry about all of these people bashing on you, it's hard for them to understand when they have been fed with a silver spoon all their lives. I for 1 am a Mid 20's male that was a single parent and went through this program after an injury forced me to leave my job. I understand the needs of these types of programs and I am greatful I found this one. It helped me through the tough times and got me back on my feet. They offered me a hand up and not a hand out like people are referencing here.
At the time of my injury I was working 70-80 hrs per week in a factory so don't tell me about honest days work for a honest days pay. Unfortunately most of you haven't experienced the need of someone helping you and I hope you never do, but just remember if you do then you better not take it because you have too much pride to let someone give you a hand. "
Lori wrote on Jun 11, 2008 6:01 PM:
" The dems are as rich as the Republicans. Those in office work so hard to stay there because they can't afford a real job. Maybe you think the dems will throw you a crumb but it will cost you another piece of your bread to get that itty bitty crumb. Aren't you tired of paying for more programs with your taxes? Everyone should have to pay their fair share and just because you are rich doesn't mean you should be taxed more. I'm for a flat tax and then everyone can have the right to gripe about how much they pay in taxes. Whether you've worked to be rich or you have inherited it, you should be responsible enough to spend it wisely and keep as much of it as you can. If I were rich I would.
The Republicans are in the minority right now in the house so how could they be the ones who nixed a tax on oil companies? Majority rules remember? And the dems have been in control for the last two years.
As for Rush Limbaugh, you should listen to him. He could teach you a lot. He is proven to be accurate and that's why the dems want him off the air. Rush reports the truth and the liberals can't handle being exposed. As for being smart after listening to Rush and Ann Coulter, I believe you will be smarter. I've learned a lot about the government and now I'm a tool to educate others! :) oh, and it's not BS that I educate with!
Morally bankrupt Republicans? We Republicans are the CONSERVATIVE party. Yes, there are some conservative dems but they are not within their party platform. Thank God (and we are the ones who want to keep "God" in our pledge and on our coins. We don't care if it bothers some atheist or Muslims!) they usually vote with their morals and not their party guidelines. I'm sure that their are some dems out there who agree with me about the pledge and coins too.
Let's all vote out the congress who have had their fair share of terms. Time to bring in people who haven't been rubbing elbows with the good ole boys! How about electing those who have a degree in banking, economics, etc. who will balance the budget and decide what we can afford on a budget and what we can't afford but NOT raise taxes! Just because you've been an elected official doesn't mean you know what you're doing and what is best for America. "
The Republicans are in the minority right now in the house so how could they be the ones who nixed a tax on oil companies? Majority rules remember? And the dems have been in control for the last two years.
As for Rush Limbaugh, you should listen to him. He could teach you a lot. He is proven to be accurate and that's why the dems want him off the air. Rush reports the truth and the liberals can't handle being exposed. As for being smart after listening to Rush and Ann Coulter, I believe you will be smarter. I've learned a lot about the government and now I'm a tool to educate others! :) oh, and it's not BS that I educate with!
Morally bankrupt Republicans? We Republicans are the CONSERVATIVE party. Yes, there are some conservative dems but they are not within their party platform. Thank God (and we are the ones who want to keep "God" in our pledge and on our coins. We don't care if it bothers some atheist or Muslims!) they usually vote with their morals and not their party guidelines. I'm sure that their are some dems out there who agree with me about the pledge and coins too.
Let's all vote out the congress who have had their fair share of terms. Time to bring in people who haven't been rubbing elbows with the good ole boys! How about electing those who have a degree in banking, economics, etc. who will balance the budget and decide what we can afford on a budget and what we can't afford but NOT raise taxes! Just because you've been an elected official doesn't mean you know what you're doing and what is best for America. "
grateful mother wrote on Jun 11, 2008 4:22 PM:
" Well said sw when i said wia was the reason my son was able to attend college i didnt mean they were paying his way through.But they were helping us by explaning how to get loans ,grants, work study programs and yes they will also help us with things like books and the other small needs. we also know what a hard days work is.My son works and will also pay for things out of his own pocket so he knows the value of a dollar as do we. And i say again thank you to wia and there staff for helping my son fullfill his dream of a higher education. p.s. When it comes our turn to help out other people who are in the same situation in life as we are with a hand up we will glady do it with a smile. "
sw wrote on Jun 11, 2008 10:38 AM:
" to "always have their hands out"
I am sorry you are to busy working everyday to take an English class. However, when I went to college, several years ago, I worked one full-time job during the evenings, worked a part-time job at nights on the weekend and still managed to go to school full time. I also work full time now so I do know what an "honest days pay for an honest days work" means. No one paid my way in college I received loans like just about everyone else. And again, I never said WIA paid for my husband to go to college, they helped by buying him a few books and helping with some car repairs once. Oh the horror of the handouts we took from them. I suppose you think college students that receive grants and scholarships are just taking handouts also because after all a grant or scholarship program is basically the same thing as this program. "
I am sorry you are to busy working everyday to take an English class. However, when I went to college, several years ago, I worked one full-time job during the evenings, worked a part-time job at nights on the weekend and still managed to go to school full time. I also work full time now so I do know what an "honest days pay for an honest days work" means. No one paid my way in college I received loans like just about everyone else. And again, I never said WIA paid for my husband to go to college, they helped by buying him a few books and helping with some car repairs once. Oh the horror of the handouts we took from them. I suppose you think college students that receive grants and scholarships are just taking handouts also because after all a grant or scholarship program is basically the same thing as this program. "
The Republicans wrote on Jun 10, 2008 9:51 PM:
" have sold out the working class. They're the ones that just nixed the tax on oil companies who are going to make HUGE RECORD PROFITS off gasoline this year...just like they did last year. Who is buddy-buddy with the Saudis? GW and his family have been close with them since the mid 20th century. The Conservatives were the ones that have always supported the "laissez-faire" business practices that allowed American-based corporations to ship their jobs overseas. Who do you think fought unionization tooth and nail for the last 100 years. Remember Ronald Reagan and his anti-union/tax breaks for the rich agenda? During his crummy administration the divide between the rich and poor widened as far as it ever had been in the past. At least until GW and pals got into office. At least Clinton and his friends cut the divide a bit. I'm no fan of Bill Clinton but at least he cared about poor peopleee. to some degree.
It wouldn't be so bad if the rich actually got rich from hard work. Most of the elite GOP moneybags got that way from cozy deals in the form of tax breaks, subsidies and other forms of "WEALTHFARE". That's right, we've got a program in the USA called "wealthfare" where the rich get richer by doing very little while the hard-working average person gets poorer because of it. Why do you think all those companies pay former lawmakers and advisors to be on their Boards of Directors? Gotta keep the future assests handy and reward the ones that ade life easy. Yet the republicans are always calling for cuts in programs aimed at the poor and working class (most of us nowdays). They just don't like to let us poor folk get the crumbs that they drop from the table.
Someone mentioned Rush Limbaugh? Do people still take him seriously? You think after he got out of rehab he would have kept his big mouth shut about politics and returned to sportscasting. He's a hypocrite that called for stricter drug laws and harsher punishments all the while he was doctor-shopping, popping opiates, and putting his poor house keeper up to scoring more pills for him. That what the State of Florida said about him (and their not exactly liberal down there you know) He,like many republicans, are morally bankrupt. He's got nothing to say of any relavance except to the dwindling dittohead idiots who are blinded by his BS.
Go ahead and work hard...see what you get. At most you'll be middle classe ones and thats okay. You see the REALLY rich guys don't let just anyone into their club. You gotta be one of them or act like it long enough so they'll throw some business your way. That's why there are two lists to get into the Ivy League School. The LONG LONG list is for the really bright kids of schmoes like you and me. The short list is for the not-so-bright kids like GW back in the day, the ones whose daddys and granddaddys have money and power.
This isn't a meritocracy where those who work hard get ahead although you were told that ever since grade school. Its an oligarchy where the rich rig the game so they win almost everytime. And when you fail to reach the stars, they point the finger and call you lazy. What's worse is that you blame yourself. 20% of americans own over 80% of its wealth and probably more...I don't feel like looking up the figure. How could they have worked so hard and we have been so lazy? The REAL story is that the game is fixed and NONE of us is ever going to make it to the big boys club without connections and cash. Every now and then someone like Bill Gates makes it against all odds and he becomes a hero. What about the 99.9% of all the other hard-working people who didn't make it?
You can listen to Rush and read Coulter all you want to. It doesn't make you smart, it just makesyou a tool. I for one an going to vote democratic and put someone in office who will at least share some of those crumbs with me. In a perfect world I'd vote for a green or a libertarian but we all know its a two party country even though its not supposed to be. But that's another blog. "
It wouldn't be so bad if the rich actually got rich from hard work. Most of the elite GOP moneybags got that way from cozy deals in the form of tax breaks, subsidies and other forms of "WEALTHFARE". That's right, we've got a program in the USA called "wealthfare" where the rich get richer by doing very little while the hard-working average person gets poorer because of it. Why do you think all those companies pay former lawmakers and advisors to be on their Boards of Directors? Gotta keep the future assests handy and reward the ones that ade life easy. Yet the republicans are always calling for cuts in programs aimed at the poor and working class (most of us nowdays). They just don't like to let us poor folk get the crumbs that they drop from the table.
Someone mentioned Rush Limbaugh? Do people still take him seriously? You think after he got out of rehab he would have kept his big mouth shut about politics and returned to sportscasting. He's a hypocrite that called for stricter drug laws and harsher punishments all the while he was doctor-shopping, popping opiates, and putting his poor house keeper up to scoring more pills for him. That what the State of Florida said about him (and their not exactly liberal down there you know) He,like many republicans, are morally bankrupt. He's got nothing to say of any relavance except to the dwindling dittohead idiots who are blinded by his BS.
Go ahead and work hard...see what you get. At most you'll be middle classe ones and thats okay. You see the REALLY rich guys don't let just anyone into their club. You gotta be one of them or act like it long enough so they'll throw some business your way. That's why there are two lists to get into the Ivy League School. The LONG LONG list is for the really bright kids of schmoes like you and me. The short list is for the not-so-bright kids like GW back in the day, the ones whose daddys and granddaddys have money and power.
This isn't a meritocracy where those who work hard get ahead although you were told that ever since grade school. Its an oligarchy where the rich rig the game so they win almost everytime. And when you fail to reach the stars, they point the finger and call you lazy. What's worse is that you blame yourself. 20% of americans own over 80% of its wealth and probably more...I don't feel like looking up the figure. How could they have worked so hard and we have been so lazy? The REAL story is that the game is fixed and NONE of us is ever going to make it to the big boys club without connections and cash. Every now and then someone like Bill Gates makes it against all odds and he becomes a hero. What about the 99.9% of all the other hard-working people who didn't make it?
You can listen to Rush and read Coulter all you want to. It doesn't make you smart, it just makesyou a tool. I for one an going to vote democratic and put someone in office who will at least share some of those crumbs with me. In a perfect world I'd vote for a green or a libertarian but we all know its a two party country even though its not supposed to be. But that's another blog. "
always have their hand out wrote on Jun 10, 2008 7:17 PM:
" I am to darn busy for an english class as I still work everyday. You wouldn't understand that I am sure. Honest days work for an honest days pay. I also do not have anyone to pay for it like you there "sw". "
free money please wrote on Jun 10, 2008 5:30 PM:
" How sweet. All the ones with their "hands out" love the program. Great to know that all of my hard earned money pays for those people who can't make it themselves. Wonder if I will have to pay for their psychotropic meds when they get depressed looking in the mirror (little self worth) as well. I'm young and do well on my own. I don't ask for or need assistance. Zero.... "
sw wrote on Jun 10, 2008 1:30 PM:
" to "always have their hand out"
Maybe you should do some research and take an English class before you open your mouth. First off, we pay taxes also. My husband and I have worked very hard for everything we have. We don't live off of any system and had my husband's company not closed its doors and shipped his job overseas we wouldn't have been in the position to begin with. While he was in the program I worked full time and he opened his own part-time business and sold things on eBay to get us through. You cannot live off of the WIA program, it will only aid you in college. Your problem seems to be in your thinking of "in my day." Guess what, it isn't your day anymore, times have changed and so has the economy. So quit blaming all the problems on young people because we aren't the ones running this country, people of your day are.
To everyone:
The problems with our government cannot be blamed on just republicans or just democrats. Be real folks, both parties are out to line their own pockets and couldn't care less about the rest of us. "
Maybe you should do some research and take an English class before you open your mouth. First off, we pay taxes also. My husband and I have worked very hard for everything we have. We don't live off of any system and had my husband's company not closed its doors and shipped his job overseas we wouldn't have been in the position to begin with. While he was in the program I worked full time and he opened his own part-time business and sold things on eBay to get us through. You cannot live off of the WIA program, it will only aid you in college. Your problem seems to be in your thinking of "in my day." Guess what, it isn't your day anymore, times have changed and so has the economy. So quit blaming all the problems on young people because we aren't the ones running this country, people of your day are.
To everyone:
The problems with our government cannot be blamed on just republicans or just democrats. Be real folks, both parties are out to line their own pockets and couldn't care less about the rest of us. "
Lori wrote on Jun 9, 2008 12:50 PM:
" It's the current congress that keeps our budget so high. did you not read the "oink" report? 17 billion dollars added to the military budget by demorcrats (with an exception of a few) for domestic programs like 3 million dollars so some kids in Georgia can play golf. Do you think that's balancing the budget? Tax and spend that's what the current congress passes if any work gets done during their sessions. If the military budget is so burdensome to America maybe we should go without their protection and see what happens. Our military is under paid and unsupported. I'd much rather spend billions on our protection. Our military budget is only a very thin slice of America's budget. We have in our military about 1% of population protecting 99% of the rest. Who should get the most of the budget? What makes up the rest of the budget? Lots of worthless money spent on domestic programs that keep us under the congress's thumb.
Go ahead vote demorcrat and see this country go even further in debt, more taxes and liberal views. Shame on America for not following our forefathers views and hopes and dreams. Jobs started going overseas when Clinton was in office.
The rich deserve to keep what they have. If they have worked hard then they shall reap the rewards and the government shouldn't have any more than what anyone else should pay.
Whether you like Rush Limabaugh or not you should try to listen to him for 6 months and see what you believe and think aftweward. He is at least 98% true on all he reports. Our media and government can't put up those numbers.
Every President coming into office has a budget plan but it's congress who rules. And who is the current majority? "
Go ahead vote demorcrat and see this country go even further in debt, more taxes and liberal views. Shame on America for not following our forefathers views and hopes and dreams. Jobs started going overseas when Clinton was in office.
The rich deserve to keep what they have. If they have worked hard then they shall reap the rewards and the government shouldn't have any more than what anyone else should pay.
Whether you like Rush Limabaugh or not you should try to listen to him for 6 months and see what you believe and think aftweward. He is at least 98% true on all he reports. Our media and government can't put up those numbers.
Every President coming into office has a budget plan but it's congress who rules. And who is the current majority? "
Dont forget... wrote on Jun 9, 2008 12:32 PM:
" That voting democrat will also perpetuate the welfare system and other government programs that enable worthless behavior. Not saying the republicans are any better, however..... The whole system is pathetic and out of control!! We need a HUGE government overhaul!!!
p.s. Make your own "luck"... don't wait for it to find you! "
p.s. Make your own "luck"... don't wait for it to find you! "
mike wrote on Jun 9, 2008 11:04 AM:
" I've always respected programs that help train and develop people rathe than straight welfare and other hand-outs. Yes some people make bad choices, we all have, but anyone that's willing to make the effort to better themselves deserves a second chance.
Having a good paying job, college education, and everythign considered "sucsssful" IMO is more a matter of luck in life, than because you worked hard. I'm sorry if you are a poor student and found college to be difficult. Personally, I didn't find it terribly hard work, nor do I consider most jobs very hard work. It can be stressful, but I think the guy working construction, pipefitter, welder, etc. works a lot harder for his money than any accountant, engineer, manager, or even retail worker. Everyone plays their part in the economy, even the lowest paid immigrant worker. You have to respect that everyone plays their part.
I grew up in a family with parents that instilled good values and set a good examples. Why should that automatically make me better than someone less fortunate? It doesn't! I'm just lucky in life, and have tried not to waste my opportunities. I hope these young members of the community getting a second chance don't waste theirs. 50 years ago I'd probably be branded a communist for making such remarks, but I'm not saying we should all get equal pay, but I don't think it's wrong to have programs to maximize our workforce.
As for Republicans and taxes... give me a break. All the current administration has done is put us so far into debt and driven the economy so far into the ground, that the dollar is almost worthless. They don't even have a budget , plan or even a foreign policy. They just toss money or the military at their problems and hope they go away eventually. They lead the same way as a fat cat corporate CEO, but instead of lawyers and investment bankers, the government has the military at their disposal.
So... vote Republican, get a few worthless tax cuts, while you watch jobs and foreign investment continue to evaporate to line the pockets or corporate america... while the the budget spins further out of control as they "fight" wars on drugs, terror, immigration, and other issues that don't exist in a healthy economy and with a balanced foreign policy.
Or vote Democrat, and get some leaders that will STOP trying to police the world and "free it "from a danger that only exists because of our own "big stick" foreign policy, attempt to balance a budget, and create programs that actually help working Americans and pull the economy back together. "
Having a good paying job, college education, and everythign considered "sucsssful" IMO is more a matter of luck in life, than because you worked hard. I'm sorry if you are a poor student and found college to be difficult. Personally, I didn't find it terribly hard work, nor do I consider most jobs very hard work. It can be stressful, but I think the guy working construction, pipefitter, welder, etc. works a lot harder for his money than any accountant, engineer, manager, or even retail worker. Everyone plays their part in the economy, even the lowest paid immigrant worker. You have to respect that everyone plays their part.
I grew up in a family with parents that instilled good values and set a good examples. Why should that automatically make me better than someone less fortunate? It doesn't! I'm just lucky in life, and have tried not to waste my opportunities. I hope these young members of the community getting a second chance don't waste theirs. 50 years ago I'd probably be branded a communist for making such remarks, but I'm not saying we should all get equal pay, but I don't think it's wrong to have programs to maximize our workforce.
As for Republicans and taxes... give me a break. All the current administration has done is put us so far into debt and driven the economy so far into the ground, that the dollar is almost worthless. They don't even have a budget , plan or even a foreign policy. They just toss money or the military at their problems and hope they go away eventually. They lead the same way as a fat cat corporate CEO, but instead of lawyers and investment bankers, the government has the military at their disposal.
So... vote Republican, get a few worthless tax cuts, while you watch jobs and foreign investment continue to evaporate to line the pockets or corporate america... while the the budget spins further out of control as they "fight" wars on drugs, terror, immigration, and other issues that don't exist in a healthy economy and with a balanced foreign policy.
Or vote Democrat, and get some leaders that will STOP trying to police the world and "free it "from a danger that only exists because of our own "big stick" foreign policy, attempt to balance a budget, and create programs that actually help working Americans and pull the economy back together. "
give me a break wrote on Jun 8, 2008 7:37 PM:
" Yes I do agree with "thankful" that I would rather see a program like this one rather than the "just give a check at the first of the month" approach. However, I came from a family who didn't have much but valued education and a good work ethic. They could not afford to send me to college. That is what grants and loans are for! I had to pay thousands of dollars in student loan debt for several years after college, but it was worth it! My husband's situation was the same, but we now make over $125,000 a year together and it's because we went to college and worked hard to get where we are today!! It wasn't always easy to pay that bill, but nothing in life worth doing is easy. There is always a way!
AND!! I guess we could be considered one of the "rich" that everyone seems to want to tax the heck out of. We worked VERY hard to get where we are today and are living the American Dream. Is that really fair either? Should we be penalized because we worked hard and make a good living? Should we be responsible for those who's choices led them to a path of poverty just because we have money and they don't? I DON'T THINK SO!!! "
AND!! I guess we could be considered one of the "rich" that everyone seems to want to tax the heck out of. We worked VERY hard to get where we are today and are living the American Dream. Is that really fair either? Should we be penalized because we worked hard and make a good living? Should we be responsible for those who's choices led them to a path of poverty just because we have money and they don't? I DON'T THINK SO!!! "
grateful mother wrote on Jun 7, 2008 7:26 PM:
" "to always have there hand out" ill have you know my husband and i both hold full time 40 hours a week jobs and we pay are share of taxes. but because of the rising cost of everthing we cant afford for our son to go to college that he worked so hard to be able to attened.(a&b student since the first grade) so i guess he should get a job at $6.25 an hour and get married have a couple of kids and then you can help pay for them because he couldnt afford to go to college. yuo tell me whats would be a better investment.apparently you grew up with a silver spoon in your mouth because it sounds like you have never needed a hand up not a hand out. oh and by the way we dont get food stamps. "
Lori wrote on Jun 7, 2008 11:13 AM:
" oh, I forgot to mention that I agree with "thankful." I would much rather pay for government programs that produce tax paying citizens than welfare cases. This program obviously isn't one of those "get-them-into-poverty-and-keep-them-there" programs which the dems created to keep America poor and under their rule and thumb! "
Lori wrote on Jun 7, 2008 11:09 AM:
" Sure, put those dems back into the congress and when our taxes increase even more then you can pay my share since you voted for them. Tax and spend, bigger government, tax and spend, and bigger government. Who do you think pays for all those government programs? The rich pay the marjority of all taxes. Those dems you like so much are included in those "rich people" circles. Ever see a poor congressman? Those elect have to stay that way so they can make sure they're getting their tax loopholes too. Why are job going south and overseas? Because Americans can't stop buying and be content with what they can afford. You make it sound like only the Republicans have moved their jobs from the USA. They all will move if we don't quit electing democrats in office who continue to tax, tax, tax, tax. Enough is enough! Smaller government and more Republicans. What is the current congressional approval rating? Less than 20%! That's lower than the Presidents! And guess what? The dems have worked less this session than ever before! What a waste of time and money! It's time to change America! Vote out those deadbeat congressman/woman who think that they are God's gift to America! Vote for term limits! Those dems who have been in for decades need to go and put some fresh, concerned Americans into office. "
Wow how heart-warming.... wrote on Jun 6, 2008 3:54 PM:
" and why is the economic situation such that "success stories" end up working in various relatively low-paying jobs? It is due to the change in the economy from production to service industry jobs exacerbated by the Republican's complete sell-out of the working family in the United States. The GOP made a decision some time ago to protect the interests of the rich elite owners of the means of production at the expense of the hard-working average tax payer. Its time to send those REPUBLICAN FAT CATS a message---HIT THE ROAD! Let your voice be heard this Novenmer...in the ballot box and on the streets in boisterous lawful protest! WORKERS OF THE WORLD UNITE! "
thankful wrote on Jun 6, 2008 3:37 AM:
" This is an excellent program. Three years ago, the company my wife worked for laid her off and shipped their business overseas. Our household income was cut in half and we questioned how we would get by. With WIA's help, my wife was able to go to school to become a nurse. This would have never happened without them.
Dear "always have their hand out",
Wouldn't you rather have your tax dollars help people become productive "tax-paying" citizens, than pay them welfare?
Judging by your spelling and grammer, maybe they could help you. "
Dear "always have their hand out",
Wouldn't you rather have your tax dollars help people become productive "tax-paying" citizens, than pay them welfare?
Judging by your spelling and grammer, maybe they could help you. "
grateful mother wrote on Jun 5, 2008 6:48 PM:
" this program is awesome. thanks to it my son will be able to attened college that i other wise couldnt afford. maria is the nicest person to him he has nothing but nice things to say about her. thanks again to maria and wia for fullfillng my sons dream of college i will be forever grateful. thank you a grateful mother "
always have their hand out wrote on Jun 5, 2008 6:17 PM:
" Glad to hear we the taxpayers can help those who could not possible help their selves. In my day, we didn't need to get paid to finish a class or a training program. The reward was we could work and feed out famalies. Hell - the Democraps will probably throw in another $100 of food stamps to these people as well. I bet ya a dollar to a dime that the majority of this Fed money pays for staff and administrators... "
sw wrote on Jun 5, 2008 11:45 AM:
" The WIA program is an excellent program. It put my husband through college and helped with other expenses along the way. My husband just graduated this May with three degrees and now they are helping with job placement. I would recommend this program to anyone that qualifies. "
| Please log in or create an account by filling out the form on the right. | |
A Soldiers comment wrote on Jun 18, 2008 7:44 AM:
Good luck to those students in this program and bless those who are trying to help them. "