More than 600 unemployed Washtenaw County workers could lose benefits this month without an extension
While Jared Utke of Dexter looks for work, lawmakers in Washington are debating whether to extend the unemployment benefits past Dec. 31.
Utke only recently filed for unemployment, but said he knows people who are in danger of losing their benefits if Congress doesn't act.
“We need to come together as a population, as a whole, to move forward,” he said. “No one remembers the greedy, the people who try to move legislation back in time. People remember the progressives, the people moving forward. This isn’t 1912 anymore — the world is different and we need to keep up with it.”
According to the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency, more than 45,000 people statewide will lose their unemployment benefits at the end of the month if no extension is agreed upon. That includes more than 600 in Washtenaw County.
The state Unemployment Insurance Agency estimates more than 3,000 Washtenaw County residents will lose their unemployment benefits by April with no extension, along with more than 180,000 people statewide.
Republicans in the House and Senate, along with some Democrats, argue the benefits would only add to the national deficit. They'd like to see Democratic Party leaders find a way to front the $12.5 billion needed for a three-month extension. Democratic leaders are arguing the extensions should be paid for with deficit spending because it will inject money into the economy.
Jay Bashant of Buckyeye, Ariz., looks over job ads at the Maricopa County Workforce Connections job fair in Phoenix. The nation's unemployment rate climbed to 9.8 percent in November, a seven-month high, as hiring slowed.
Matt York | Associated Press
Patricia Denig, interim director of Washtenaw County Employment Training and Community Services, said she doesn’t expect an extension at this point. And that would vastly impact those who lose their benefits, she said.
“If they’re losing unemployment after almost two years and they don’t have much savings, they’re going to be left hanging on a thread,” she said. “Unemployment typically doesn’t cover all bills from the beginning.”
The average weekly unemployment payment in the U.S. is $302.90, depending on state calculations, according to an Associated Press report.
Nationwide, the Labor Department estimates more than 2 million Americans will lose their unemployment benefits by Christmas.
Ypsilanti resident Danielle Littlejohn said she’s concerned for the well-being of loved ones as the deadline looms. Littlejohn said she’s been hearing from upset friends and family whose benefits are already running out after the Nov. 30 deadline.
Much like Utke, her attention turned toward Washington, hoping legislators would extend the benefits.
“They need to hurry up, and Congress needs to get themselves together and move on ahead,” she said.
The county ETCS has been working with many unemployed residents in a six-step program to help them adjust to the realities of their new world. Instead of just helping them look for work their old field — which is, not surprisingly, usually manufacturing — the group also helps workers try to retrain themselves for another field.
Denig said the program begins with helping workers deal with the trauma of losing their job before beginning to design their future. ETCS staff then help people look at job trends locally and nationally before creating resumes, learning job search strategies and practicing interviews.
“We’re teaching each individual skills,” Denig said. “It helps them figure out how do they continue to reinvent themselves. They’re moving forward instead of looking back.”
Kyle Feldscher covers K-12 education for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at kylefeldscher@annarbor.com.
Comments
clownfish
Tue, Dec 7, 2010 : 9:40 a.m.
BRAGGS, or anybody interested in putting a self employed craftsman to work, this is a chance to put up. I WANT TO WORK, I do good work, you will get a high quality product for a fair price. abjure-36256@mypacks.net email me The govt is not going to create jobs, it is up to citizens like you to employ those of us that want to work. Keep me off the dole. As some say...Man up!
clownfish
Tue, Dec 7, 2010 : 9:25 a.m.
BRAGGS, so, you are not interested in discussing retaining me to make something for you?
braggslaw
Tue, Dec 7, 2010 : 9:15 a.m.
Subjective criteria and process like "i worked hard, I tried, I did xxx" can only be measured by objective results...you got a job, you kept your job, you got a raise, you made xx Everybody has a story but the only true measure is the result
An
Tue, Dec 7, 2010 : 9:02 a.m.
http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/content/view/47071/ http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/2010-12-01-unemployment-expire-effects_N.htm Still looking for the one that I read that said nearly $4. For now I am going to have to go concentrate on my studies and my resume sending.
An
Tue, Dec 7, 2010 : 8:42 a.m.
I am re-posting a nicer version of my previously removed post because apparently there were some good points in here. Please don't assume that the unemployed didn't work hard, study hard, etc. I studied hard. Many of the unemployed studies hard, it's how we got our degrees. May of the unemployed lived within their means and had savings, but after massive layoffs those same people are on the edge. Personally, even though I rely on unemployment right now, I would like to see the program revamped. I think that it should be required, from day one, that each person send at least 3 resumes a week in and provide that information to UIA in order to get benefits. Perhaps re-training/re-schooling could be considered an employment seeking activity as well. I've never stopped looking for a job but I do know people who say "eh, I lost my job, I'll just sit on unemployment for 20 weeks or so and then scramble to find a job during the last six weeks." Personally I don't understand that mentality because with a job I could actually pay my bills and with only unemployment I am down to only paying the basics, but hey, since there is no such rule about job seeking activities until you reach the last tier of the federal benefits OR you get the EUC (Emergency Unemployment Compensation) from the state, what can I do? Another thing to keep in mind is that for every dollar the government spends in unemployment, at least $1.90 will be put back into the economy, immediately. The unemployed are not stuffing that money into their savings accounts, they are buying food, paying utilities, paying rent/mortgage and putting gas in their cars. Some economists estimate a higher number, closer to $4/dollar. If I find the time later today I will find the study that I just read for a class and post the link. For now, I have to go do some job seeking activities (sending out resumes) and study for an exam in one of my MBA program classes.
Steve Pepple
Tue, Dec 7, 2010 : 8:36 a.m.
A comment that contained personal attacks against another commenter has been removed.
clownfish
Tue, Dec 7, 2010 : 8:26 a.m.
BRAGGS, ALPHA What do you guys think of extending tax breaks to the tune of hundreds of billions in lost revenue? Was that "paid for" by any reduction in spending? The theory is that by giving Warren Buffet, Paris Hilton, Brad Pitt, Rich Rodriquez and Rick Snyder tax breaks they will create jobs. These breaks have been in place for 10 years, where was the job growth the last 3 years from these incredibly wealthy peoples job creation? I assume that BRAGGSLAW will benefit from these tax breaks. How many jobs will you be creating? i too learned a skill set that few have, hoping that if I lost my job I could always fall back into a profession that about 600 people in the US can do. Unfortunately it requires that wealthy people be willing to part with a few sheckles in order to get a high quality product, and they seem more interested in either buying cheap imported crap or holding onto their cash. They are not building homes, buying heirloom furniture etc. Do you think they will start doing that soon, with the extension of the tax breaks? What can I put you down for so I don't need to go back on the Dole? I don't want to live on the nanny state, it makes me crazy, it goes against my core being, but for now I have no choice. I work like crazy, I send out resumes and don't even get a call back. If you would like to reward someone that has done what you suggest and is still struggling, please respond and we will see if you can help me help myself.
AlphaAlpha
Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 11:45 p.m.
"Over there, the wealthy typically pay very heavy taxes and not coincidentally you will find universal health care, free child care, free higher education, and a host of other public subsidies on a massive scale" Having some considerable western European history, it seems you might do well to learn about current pan-Euro events; as braggslaw intimated, there are some very significant economic issues there, the solutions to which are getting quite ugly: benefits cuts on a massive scale. A portent of things to come in the States, no doubt. As far as the military is concerned, where is the change? Do you have any other ideas besides taxing the wealthy? And, how many of the wealthy would you raise taxes on? The top 10%? If you run the numbers, you will see that even at 100% taxation of the top 10%, there will still be significant deficits. Then what?
braggslaw
Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 11:23 p.m.
I don't know where to begin.. Nobody should bring up Norway, pumping oil/money out of the ocean is not something the USA can and will do... we just don't have that type of natural resource. The natural resources we have inthe USA are hard work, innovation and intelligence. Yes. let's bring up the PIIGS where the lazy self entitled believe they have to do nothing and they should get everything... bringing their countries to the brink of insolvency..great example. This country is great because people don't believe they feel they deserve things. God help us when people in the USA lay in their beds, throw up their hands and say its not my fault. I might be old school, but I did the hard things that made me wealthy. I worked hard, studied hard, fought and hustled when I had to and I was rewarded by the market by attaining rare skills and knowledge that nobody else possessed. I have family members and friends who drank and did drugs, did not improve themselves,did not finishe school, and now blame the world for their problems is heartless, then count me as heartless. If forcing people to accept personal responsibility is a crime, then I am a criminal. I frequent Sweden, Germany and Italy every year, I don't want to live like them and I don't want the USA to morph in to a European welfare state where everyone is the same and everyone is poor.(but they get to see a doctor for free after a 6 month waiting period)
Speechless
Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 8:55 p.m.
"... While many in Europe have free health care their overall standard of living falls well below that of the U.S...." The first half of that is true, while the second half of the sentence is entirely false. In the U.S., only the very wealthy arguably live better off than their counterparts in countries like France, Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, Germany and Switzerland. Everyone else will find in these other countries a more stable an secure standard of living with a comparative abundance of well-funded public services and programs. In the U.S., we are deprived. "... Western European countries have also borrowed vast amounts of money for their welfare systems (leading to bailouts by Germany to prevent the collapse of the Euro)... will now have an ever lower standard of living due to the financial obligations...." Greece, Ireland and Spain have debt issues right now, so an internal debate goes on over how that is to be handled. It raged inside Greece, as their debt is worse and Greek citizens — unlike the passive sheeple here in the U.S. — actively took a stand against letting the politicians force the middle class to accept the burden for their mistakes and those of the wealthy. "... People in France are rioting because the govt. acknowledged they are broke and cannot afford the generous welfare benefits.... Protests occurred in response to a proposal from Sarkozy, a conservative politician, to increase the standard age for retirement pensions from 65 to 67, and the age for early (reduced) pensions from 60 to 62. While this move will obviously reduce costs, Sarkozy also insists on maintaining the French equivalent of the Bush/Cheney tax cuts for the rich. Such ethical hypocriscy ignited a series of large-scale protests across the country this fall. France should also slash its own defense budget, the third highest in the world. At least the French, like the Greeks, have sense enough to fight a policy change which, at the behest of the wealthy, aims to arbitrarily shift more financial burden to the general population. Those who took to the streets across France comprise the polar opposite of our native tea party sheeple. "... Europe is more screwed up than the U.S....." What?  In Western Europe, even during a time of recession, residents have access to free health care, (probably) free child care, robust mass transit, (possibly) free higher education — not to mention more substantive unemployment benefits, which may include rent subsidies. Few among the middle class or poor in Euro-land would willingly trade their circumstances in their home countries for what exists in the U.S., since (as a rule) they are not illogical or insane. Why give up so much for so much less over here?
An
Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 6:34 p.m.
I find many of the attitudes very sad. For instance, do you really think it was my life choices that got me laid off 3 times in two years? I have a college education. I had 4 months of savings when I lost my first job. I was starting to get some savings built up when I lost my 2nd job (I had about six weeks saved up). I send in 3-5 resumes every week and sometimes as many as 10-15. I sent them in for my desired profession and for secretarial work. Guess what, no one wants to hire me as a secretary because I am "overqualified." I also get that answer sometimes in my own field because I have a degree AND experience...they are afraid I want too much money but really, I would work for less than I used to make... I have worked temporary positions for at least 75% of the time I have been unemployed. Sometimes the temp agencies don't have enough temp work to go around, so I end up with periods of not temping. I also returned to school. I qualified for the No Worker Left Behind grant but guess what, they ran out of money right after I was approved (but before I got the money). I'm taking out student loans in the hope that my further education will improve my marketability. So go ahead and judge. Go ahead and claim that we are lazy SOB's. Go ahead and say we are milking the system or that we are feeling a sense of entitlement. One thing I can guarantee is that the UI benefits that I collect are equal to about 40% of my previous pay AND my family and I don't have health insurance. I have NOT applied for food stamps or medicaid and I buy my son's meds that he needs every month out of funds I get from UI. Until it happens to you, it all sounds like entitlement and I really hope it doesn't happen to anyone that posted on this thread. God bless.
braggslaw
Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 6:14 p.m.
Speechless.... ah! the European Welfare State argument rears its head again. Norway is an oil welfare state like Kuwait, a choice we don't have. While many in Europe have free health care their overall standard of living falls well below that of the U.S. Western European countries have also borrowed vast amounts of money for their welfare systems(leading to bailouts by Germany to prevent the collapse of the Euro) The PIIGS will now have an ever lower standard of living due to the financial obligations they have in the Euro community. People in France are rioting because the govt. acknowledged they are broke and cannot afford the generous welfare benefits. Europe is more screwed up than the U.S. and the chickens have come home to roost.
Jay Thomas
Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 4:30 p.m.
@Mark A: No, I understand the reality of it completely. The state UI fund is empty and the state has been borrowing the money from the federal government (which mandated the extension to 99 weeks without providing any means of financing it, as one Senator mentioned today). No one's taxes are paying for any benefits past the 6 month period (and only employers pay for the first six months). Here is a list of state borrowing for the past year. http://www.economicpolicyjournal.com/2010/05/32-states-have-borrowed-from-treasury.html If for some reason the politicians in Washington do not agree to renew the extension (which is expiring) then there will be no need to borrow anything further because only the benefits past 6 months are unfunded. The logic you use about employers could just as easily apply to you. If your benefits expire, and you cannot find work, you could also leave the country. Your words not mine.
Mark A.
Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 1:06 p.m.
Jay Thomas, did you read that link that you posted? You seem confused. Just because employers help subsidize UI doesn't mean that it's not a benefit provided by the government and paid with everyone's taxes. I've paid my taxes, and more than most. That link also says what I said before, that employee's earn UI credits by working. Also, my last employer is a corporation so of course it can't receive UI benefits. However, my last boss can, if he actually works. Additionally, if employers don't want to pay UI taxes on employees then they shouldn't hire employees, and do all the work by themselves. If they're unhappy about paying these taxes then they should try to change the laws or move out of the country, or optionally, stop laying off workers. Employers pay a smaller portion of an employee's unemployment benefits than the general tax payers do, and my last employer chose to pay the UI benefits when they chose to hire me.
Speechless
Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 12:20 p.m.
AlphaAlpha wrote: "...Well, your mind certainly won't be enlightened by anything you read here. 'Tax the rich, feed the poor, till there are no rich no more.' Then all will be poor." According to this logic, the people of Western Europe must wallow in only the most dire conditions of squalor that one can envision. Over there, the wealthy typically pay very heavy taxes and — not coincidentally — you will find universal health care, free child care, free higher education, and a host of other public subsidies on a massive scale (by U.S. standards, at any rate). Yet, we're now told, this is but a dark recipe for excruciating impoverishment. Who knew? Why, those ignorant countries are so penniless that they can't even get around to spending up to $700 billion a year on their military, just like we do. ------------ Please be charitable this holiday season. Open your hearts and your doors to the teeming, starving poor of wretched Third World cities like Paris, Amsterdam and Stockholm. Let them in warmly and generously share the fruits of our booming, almost unregulated economy. Take them on a tour of a real city, like Detroit or Jackson, to show them a gleaming example of what corporate America can do to run things right and bring wealth to all.
voter
Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 9:59 a.m.
Fed in Ypsi I think you misunderstood what I said or I did not say it right. I don't care for the people that lived beyond their means prior to going on unemployment and never saved a dime for the future. Now they want everything. I work in a profession that has seen people on public assistance with better furniture, TV's and vehicles then we have and it is a joke. There are alot of good people that need help and I am for that but there has to be checks and balances. There is alot of fraud going on too.
nekm1
Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 9:43 a.m.
Who really takes 2 years to find a job? Really? More than two years of unemployment should be called what is really is. Welfare.
clownfish
Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 8:53 a.m.
ALPHA- Thank you for the info. It's too bad the state creates disincentives as such. "The state" creates such disincentives because people like stunshif and others call for it! "the govt" puts regulations in place because citizens call for it. How many of you live next to a factory or power plant? How many would like it if your residential area allowed heavy industry or 24 hour trucking? Should we allow I3 next to R1? Why not,China does it! (for the poor, not the rich) By all means, lets use Chinas labor polices as well, allow mines to kill 300 or more people a year. How do ya'll think China would have responded to the TeaParty? Like this: www.francesfarmersrevenge.com/stuff/.../torture/chinese.htm Have you ever tried to get a drivers license in India? I worked in the Caribbean a few years ago, it took a $2000 bribe to get a phone in our office. So, give me a break about how "the govt" is the problem, people.
clownfish
Mon, Dec 6, 2010 : 8:41 a.m.
ALPHA- you are welcome. I am one of those people that lost a good paying job and started my own business. It is NOT the panacea portrayed by many here. I have picked up work as a day laborer, worked out of state (still owed thousands of dollars by a contractor BTW! Do I have time to go to eastern PA and fill out court papers to collect? No.) Now, entering the traditional slow economic period of Jan and Feb I am struggling to make it. I thought I had EB benefits left over, time I thought I had banked in case I needed a little help during the winter, but it looks like I missed a deadline and may not be able to collect. I should have gamed the system, but no, I am an honest hard working person and that would have been wrong. Now I may pay the price for being an upstanding citizen, I may lose my house, driving down your property values. I plowed my savings into my business, hoping it would work out, but so far it is only paying about 1/2 the bills. I continue to work 60-70 hours/week but only about 20 of it actually pays. People don't always fit into easy categories or stereotypes. This is NOT a usual recession, it is REALLY REALLY bad here in MI. I know we are borrowing, but we borrowed to go into other countries to make ourselves "feel" safer, now for some reason we can't borrow to actually make ourselves more secure? If anybody was for the 2 wars, to stand up and decry spending at home is beyond hypocritical bordering on sadistic. That is what I see from "the right". Now the republicans will rack up about $700 billion in lost revenue to give tax cuts to people that don't need it, holding hostage about $12 billion in UB for those that are losing their homes. That is not fiscal responsibility, it is greed, plain and simple. Christian nation my lilly white behind!
Jay Thomas
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:45 p.m.
@Mark A: I'm sorry to have to break this news to you, but you never paid as much as a dime into the Unemployment Insurance system. Maybe you are thinking of the FICA withheld from your paycheck to provide social security benefits for retires. UI is an entirely employer paid tax which provides for six months of benefits. The extensions voted on by Congress to bring it to one year and then later to two years are not being paid by ANYONE. The state of Michigan is borrowing $3.9 billion to cover the cost of these extensions. I for one do not feel "entitled" to extend these benefits indefinitely and pass on this debt to future generations. You are entitled to your own opinion but not your own facts. I wish you well in finding a job. http://www.michigan.gov/uia/0,1607,7-118-1328-137908--,00.html
braggslaw
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:16 p.m.
Why are the people on UEB made at the people who worked hard, made good choices, planned their life etc. and now don't want to subsidize those who made bad decisions, did not work hard and act as if they have not control over their life. I don't buy it. There are always jobs for those who dig hard, hustle and improve themselves.... leave the state, reinvent yourself (everyone has to every decade or so).
Life in Ypsi
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 6:42 p.m.
@ Voter Are you serious? Did people who are unemployed live beyond their means? Possibly some, but I bet for many they didn't have much means to begin with. Very easy for you to pass judgment when you are bringing in $80,000 a year. I'm going through my second round of unemployment in less than two years after first taking a pay cut. $25,000 a year doesn't go far. I live frugal and don't have any means left. I went through my measly savings during the first round of being out of work. I even canceled my health insurance prior to losing my job so I could make ends meet.
Mark A.
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 4:46 p.m.
For everyone that thinks that those collecting UI benefits are lazy people living off of your hard working self, please note that one has to earn UI credits by working. If you've worked, you've paid into the system, and are eligible for UI. People collecting UI are living off of their own hard work too. If you don't like the UI system, then vote to change it or move to another country. Stop whining about people using benefits that they ARE entitled to. Also, if you think UI is so much better than working, then give it a try. See if you can support you and your family on $18K a year. If you can, then yeah, you may be one of the lucky ones that can actually afford to just collect benefits and sit on your backside. If someone will give me one of these $12/hour jobs that everyone is talking about my passing up, which is significantly more than unemployment, please sign me up. Especially if it has health benefits. Thank you. Please note though that I'll only be working there until I find a better job. I could lie about that, but you wouldn't believe me anyway.
Jay Thomas
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 4 p.m.
"People who do actual work for a living create our social wealth. They produce manufactured goods or provide everyday services we need." Then such independent smart people should be able to start their own business. Don't devote yourself to fantasizing over the workers controlling the means of production. Get off your rear end and create something instead of spending your time making such judgments about the successful.
AlphaAlpha
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:37 p.m.
Clownfish - Thank you for the info. It's too bad the state creates disincentives as such. However, it appears people can move forward with self employment if they are careful, and cultivate and grow a new business. Everyone should give this a try...innovation, excitement, long hours, etc. Most people can do something better than most other people. Exploit that advantage to the marketplace. Little to lose; much to gain.
AlphaAlpha
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:32 p.m.
Emma B - Thank you for your descriptive response. Suspicions confirmed. It is so very frustrating seeing interviews with people who appear truly clueless about many realities of the working world. Many traits considered important in school are substantially disregarded in the workplace, and vice versa. The schools should teach the basics of job hunting; ironic indeed they don't. Thanks again. If you would like some effective tips, A2.com should provide commenter to commenter email by the time you get out there; drop a line.
AlphaAlpha
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:23 p.m.
"Professional investors have no role whatsoever in the creation of social wealth." Ah, the politics of envy. Well, your mind certainly won't be enlightened by anything you read here. "Tax the rich, feed the poor, till there are no rich no more." Then all will be poor.
Speechless
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 1:35 p.m.
"... 'professional investor class' also provides capital to allow new business to grow, creating jobs and wealth.... Not socially productive? Many believe otherwise...." People who do actual work for a living create our social wealth. They produce manufactured goods or provide everyday services we need. Professional investors have no role whatsoever in the creation of social wealth. By contrast, they appropriate it for arbitrary use as their gambling stash. Investment houses and banks dip their hands into the savings of countless productive individuals and proceed to place their Wall Street bets. ------------ The notion that the unemployed widely abuse the benefits system would be comical if the potential policy consequences of such fictions were not so cruel. It's just another conservative-libertarian fantasy 'employed' to justify the hoarding of social wealth by corporate and Wall Street interests. They accrue special subsidies, huge tax breaks & cuts, and major bailouts — all at the expense of the vast majority of the population — while seeking to distract attention from this by regularly demonizing the poor and the unemployed. Our economic 'system' is currently set up to behave in ways which are predominantly cold and primarily amoral. The financial bottom line is all that counts, while human lives and social well-being only seem to get in the way. In Afghanistan, we badly damage villages through the air with bombs. And we have created the same kind of physical damage in U.S. cities like Detroit through the quiet, outwardly civil procedures inside corporate boardrooms. It doesn't have to be this way. Some number of other countries in this world handle the economic basics of everyday life more rationally than in the U.S.
clownfish
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:35 a.m.
There are no longer jobs for uneducated, unskilled workers to walk into and raise a family. Education is the key and not just any education...degrees in professions that pay are required. don't waste your college years majoring in Elizabethan poetry or near east history if you want a job. Then one can be mocked on A2.com for being an overeducated commonsenseless librool!
clownfish
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 11:31 a.m.
Does anyone know whether starting one's own business will cause them to lose their unemployment benefits? And, how much could one self-earn before risking those benefits? Thank you. Persons on unemployment MAY start their own business. Instead of doing the bi-weekly job claim they would fill out a weekly profit/loss form and submit that in place of the job search. Same rules apply to self earned income as to any other income, 1-1. If you make a buck, you lose a buck in compensation. --------- I am truly amazed at the lack of compassion from so many on this site! It seems like the FIRST reaction is that everybody on UC is a crook, thief and liar. If the Randian philosophy had much connection to reality then private charity would pick up the slack, do any of you see that happening? How many of you with good jobs are giving enough help to those without? How many of you that may now get a HUGE tax break continuation are going to use that money to create jobs, and are they going to be in MI? If you are not going to create jobs with this money, how much of it are you going to give to private charity? Or, are you going to use it to go on a vacation overseas, or buy cheap Chinese/Taiwanese/African made goods? Breaking News- We are all in it together, those that have must suck it up and help out those that don't. Jesus taught me that. How do you think Mitch McConnell and John Boehner will be judged by their Lord for taking care of the least among us? Do you Think G-d will have a copy of Atlas Shrugged in her hip pocket?
jns131
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 10:36 a.m.
After reading all the comments here, I agree, most of the jobs are not in this area. I would have to move to Grand Rapids or Holland to get a full time job that wouldn't require me to pay a $4000 deductible on health insurance. WISD was very selective when they hired of the 160 in Ann Arbor. A lot have left and a lot were told they are on the no hire list. If you are not of desirable candidate material you can forget being hired by any company, whether it be WISD or Meijer. Meijer will not hire you if you cannot work weekends and third shift. Those good shifts are only for those who can work whatever shift they can get the good stuff. I have a PT job and am getting underemployment to make up for what I am missing and able to pay bills. EB expires for 2 million on Monday. Can we say welfare state? The rest fall into place in mid January. 8 million. The nation is going to become a welfare state if our newly hired government doesn't vote and reinstate. I do agree that if after 99 weeks you do not have a job? Yeah, there is something wrong. I want full time work but can't with again, a child that does not drive. So, think, a parent with young children pose a problem for the parent who wants a good job. O I forgot, lets factor in child care. That is not cheap. Then you have to qualify to get those benies. Smells of political pork to me. Good luck to those still struggling. As of this writing? Unemployment just hiked to 9.8. Sounds like a problem to me.
braggslaw
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 9:11 a.m.
Ghost, Been gone a few days...just a few points. I believe there are programs where you can goto school part time abnd collect UEB. 11 credits... I know of many people who have turned down jobs to stay on unemployment (some are my family members), as it was a better deal to stay at home on the public dole. you might say I am heartless, but stern penalties are needed to force some people to work...(at least in my experience). There are no longer jobs for uneducated, unskilled workers to walk into and raise a family. Education is the key and not just any education...degrees in professions that pay are required. don't waste your college years majoring in Elizabethan poetry or near east history if you want a job.
RUKiddingMe
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 8:23 a.m.
Murrow, I'm kind of surprised and disappointed by your calling my reality "a mirage." I don't know what you're doing there. Your citing of statististics doesn't change the fact that what is happening is happening, not that it happens as frequently or in as many places. Sitting there talking about how stupid someone is for taking a paycut to take advantage of monetary aid and work less doesn't change the fact that it happens. I'm guessing that in the tens of places I've worked, I didn't somehow hit on the only places in the U.S. where people are that "stupid." And how do you define well-paid, anyway? I'm not talking about people using unemployment to get rich, I'm talking about people who figure if they work 10 hours less a week and still make enough money to pay their rent and buy pot and not have to get up early, then it's a win-win for them. The majority of people that were asking for reduced hours and competing for layoff were hourly employees, from $4.75 to $30 an hour. A couple teaching professionals in there, too, though, excitedly telling me about how they dummied up documntation to make it look like they were hard at work seeking unemployment, so they could continue to collect. What do you think, that if someone does the math and doesn't at least double their money then they won't try to get free money and work less? There are a lot of people out there who 1) Don't really critically need the assistance or 2) take advantage of said assistance and try to keep it cming as long as possible. And that's a fact. How dumb it is to do so when you could be making more if you tried and did well at your job and wanted to excel as a person is kind of one of the things wrong with it. Your whole world view is a mirage, a mirage of statistics and self worth. I'm actually seeing these things happen. You're quoting percentages and studies.
SillyTree
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 7:13 a.m.
I've been told that full time students cannot collect unemployment. Can anyone verify that. If it is true, that shoots a big hole in the retrain and get a job argument.
Stan Hyne
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 3:40 a.m.
People are talking about those workers who were laid off and are now receiving unemployment benefits. The ones who are really hurting are the self employed who are no longer earning enough to pay their bills. The construction, maintenance, repair, or small shop owners and they are not eligible for unemployment benefits. The second thought is how long is it reasonable to pay people who are not working. Three months, six months, a year, two years, four years, forever?
Emma B
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 2:05 a.m.
@AlphaAlpha I'm a fairly recent local high school grad and about to graduate from UM in May-- I can say with confidence that very little in the way of basic job hunting is being taught. In high school there was absolutely no training in the way of job hunting, not a word about assembling a resume or how to ace an interview. I suppose it was assumed that we'd all go off to college and learn it there. At UM it's been better but not by much. I'm lucky that my particular school at the University has a dedicated career counselor and I have learned everything I know about networking/job hunting from him. Unfortunately there is no required coursework in job hunting of any kind. My efforts to remain in Michigan after graduation and also be employed have been met with no success so far. I hope my luck changes because I honestly never saw myself leaving this state until recently.
Heardoc
Sun, Dec 5, 2010 : 12:39 a.m.
Uhhhh..... How much time is enough time to find a job? When is there a good time to cut benefits? I realize that changing a lifestyle one has become accustomed to is difficult -- but, folks, people need to change their lifestyle to conform with their circumstances. If you cannot afford your home -- then you need to move--move in with someone --get off the government gravy train. If you cannot find a job in your field -- take a job in a field that is hiring-- even if it is for less money. Stop the idea that the government owes you anything. Crazy.
AlphaAlpha
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 11:15 p.m.
It's easy to forget that the 'professional investor class' also provides capital to allow new business to grow, creating jobs and wealth. Whether indirectly through shares of companies, or directly, like VC's. Not socially productive? Many believe otherwise...
Speechless
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 10:56 p.m.
From further above: "... Technology has eliminated huge numbers of jobs. Self-serve gas pumps, [self-scan] grocery scanners, robotics in factories... Netflix... iTunes... Craigslist.... What the tech world has done is create computerized systems that have replace[d] human[s].... jobs are fewer. Not sure it will be so easy for anyone to create more jobs." Advances in technology mean that fewer jobs are socially necessary than in the past. The addition of automated machinery on an assembly line lessens the need for paid manual labor, while computer software reduces office staffing. Although most jobs losses occur due to a poor economy or to outsourcing operations to countries with poor labor and environmental regulations, an "outsourcing" to high-tech, automated equipment has been a factor, as well. To the extent that high-tech capitalism makes paid human labor obsolete, it also makes itself obsolete. A stable economy (not to mention global peace) depends on the wide availability of decent-paying jobs. If technology makes that both unnecessary and impossible, capitalism will destabilize and fail. In France not too many years ago, a proposal was floated to reduce the official work week to somewhere around 30 hours, hence acknowledging a decline in the overall need for paid hours. Here in the U.S., however, employers like to pay so little that people lucky to work 40 hours a week may well find themselves having to choose between buying food or paying rent. Yet someday we'll have to figure out how to allow most of the population to live comfortably on something much less than a 40-hour work week. On a side note, the professional investor class makes a very healthy living while doing absolutely no socially productive work whatsoever. Why shouldn't other classes of workers have the opportunity to do the same, at least part of the time? The country's wealth increasingly concentrates on Wall Street, at the expense of Main Street. Thus it's in the hands of a fairly small number of well-heeled financial gamblers whose relationship to the everyday economy of services and manufacturing is strictly parasitical.
Ypsisucks
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:56 p.m.
If you go to school while you are unemployed you also get less money in unemployment benefits.
Ypsisucks
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:40 p.m.
99 weeks of unemployment?? I have been only laid off for 46 weeks and my unemployment money is about to run out. Should of got laid off a year before I did.
lizard
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 8:08 p.m.
This is not the first unemployment for many families. When businesses began closing their doors in the early 2000s, many I know, including my husband, lost job after job. He applied for numerous jobs that were far, far below what he had been making. He was not contacted - approaching middle-aged, white man with a college degree - as we presume companies figured he wouldn't stick around. After waiting 2 years for nursing school entrance, he is finally back in school. We are struggling greatly from all of the debt we've accumulated just trying to survive. He worked quite some time underemployed before taking the step to start retraining as a nurse. I have a decent job, but what we make just barely allows us to cover some bills. Hoping we'll bail ourselves out when he finishes school, but of course we'll then have even more student loan debt to add to our prior debt that we hadn't finished paying off. Giving handouts is not the answer, and we haven't had UE benefits for quite some time, but I worry for the families that are just trying to hold on and really are trying to get back in the game. Every person has an individual story and we cannot be quick to judge the reality for him/her.
Mick52
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 6:14 p.m.
Here is an interesting documentary related to govt benefits http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5UOJXGxLLM
Mick52
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 6:12 p.m.
The government is being looked to for relief of a problem we have all gotten ourselves into. Technology has eliminated huge numbers of jobs. Self serve gas pumps, you scan grocery scanners, robotics in factories all replaced labor, Netflix/Redbox: DVD stores, iTunes: CD stores, Craigslist: newspapers, internet: mulitple jobs. Take music for example. Imagine how many people worked in making and selling records, tapes, CDs etc. Now you buy your music by using your computer. This may happen with all the people in the book and magazine industries with Kindle and the new readers coming out. Who needs a bookstore? Library even. What the tech world has done is create computerized systems that have replace a human. Heck we may even no longer need astronauts. No need for a phone in the house, I use my cell. What I am thinking here is that jobs are fewer. Not sure it will be so easy for anyone to create more jobs.
voter
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 5:24 p.m.
For Hans I to would love to find a job that I can work 9ish to 3ish but that is not reasonable in a good economy. We all can blame the GP but did they not say they would vote for it if we took the money out of the stimulis package and not add to the debt. I could be wrong but thats what I thought I read. I am all for helping people but we have to help ourselves also. Did any of the unemployed live beyond their means prior to being unemployed and not saving for the future? My wife and I have never made more than 85,000 a year and could live for about 4 years off our saving without going to the government to bail us out. We feel it our responsiblity to take care of ourselves. Never bought anything unless we could pay for it then. We live in a nice house and drive newer payment free cars also. Not bragging but I think alot of people live beyond their means and then want help when they get in trouble. Glad to help people that our down on their luck just not for life. Sometimes we have to do things we don't want to do like relocate but that has to be an option too.
Jay Thomas
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 5:11 p.m.
The first six months of benefits is paid by the employer. The rest of these extensions (to two years) have been on borrowed money (the state of MI is borrowing something like $3.9 billion). How long should unemployment benefits last... three, four, five, ten years? Until you get a job that you don't feel is "beneath you"? One of the Detroit papers had a story a few months back about a lawn care service that was paying 12/hour but could not hire anyone because all of the "applicants" only showed up so they could say they were looking for work to meet the unemployment benefit requirement. And why work for 12/hr when the.gov will give you that much for not working? Better we go in debt as a society to pay the benefit money and have a Mexican do the real work and send the money out of our economy and home to Mexico. :|
AlphaAlpha
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 4:23 p.m.
A surfeit? That would be extreme. In terms of causes, not symptoms, it's all about social mood. Unfortunately, recessionary periods bring out a darker side of society. That phenomena is essentially worldwide, and timeless. It manifests itself in many ways; depressed social mood affects most people, individually and as a crowd. Accentuated complaining, as well as a heightened sensitivity to the complaining of others, are aspects of lowered social mood.
ffej440
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 4:19 p.m.
I asked my friends and neighbors and they all said they would like to spend 12.5 billion on the extension and have our 56 billion that was LOST in Afganistan reconstuction back.
Macabre Sunset
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 4:18 p.m.
And Edward R. Strawman strikes again... Not an ounce of substance to that post.
AlphaAlpha
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 4:13 p.m.
Does anyone know whether starting one's own business will cause them to lose their unemployment benefits? And, how much could one self-earn before risking those benefits? Thank you.
AlphaAlpha
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 4:11 p.m.
"Every person I have ever known..." This, as you know, was a widespread phenomena. Likely still is, though perhaps less so today. And, as with many activities, a few miscreants get disproportionate publicity. Virtually every worker has experienced the unemployment line at least once...
ffej440
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 4:09 p.m.
900 jobs in the immediate area? Ha! Thats a laugh- you really believe that? No wonder the crazy comments.
AlphaAlpha
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 4:03 p.m.
Can any of the resident academicians state whether basic job hunting skills are taught in our schools today? Thank you.
AlphaAlpha
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 3:55 p.m.
"...the faceless government...your neighbors..." Without respect to the employment issues at hand, it is unfortunate that in recent decades, many politicians have sought to separate the 'neighbors and friends' component from the funding equation; largess, and the eventual fostering of dependency, is easier when people don't feel they are affecting their neighbors and friends.
janejane
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 3:55 p.m.
Speaking from the viewpoint of a 61 year old woman, recently employed after looking for 2 years, it's a cold, cold world out there. My experience was devasating. Online apps only. Countless websites receiving hundreds of apps, and many from younger applicants....what a nightmare. Finally, after months and months of pounding the pavement, net working, phone calls and "begging", I have secured a job. Less than half of what I've previously earned. I guess it was a waste that I received unemployment, huh? I looked and looked, so don't think everyone who receives it likes it or wants to keep getting it instead of a job. With no job, you feel worthless, poor, low self-esteem....so expendable. Why, after all my experience and expertise, was I such a "leper"? It couldn't be inferred that age was the culprit, but guess what. Now, 3-5 years from retirement, I'm embarking on a whole new career. So, those of you who want benefits to cease, I'm ashamed of you. Woo hoo...you still have your job...let that end, and you try to look? Think again.
Macabre Sunset
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 3:12 p.m.
Monster lists more than 4,000 jobs as based in Michigan. So I think the 900 for the immediate area is close to accurate. I don't think people asking to be on the public dole have the right to turn down a decent job, whether it's because of hours or specialty or comfort. Remember, you're not asking the faceless government for a handout, you're asking your neighbors who are paying taxes.
Harm
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 3:02 p.m.
if benefits were cut off for those abusing the system, there would be plenty for those really needing it. Me? yeah, I'm fortunate enough not to be unemployed, and I AM the laziest person in the world. SO, if I was unemployed, I'd be inclined to be one of those at least stretching my time not working, I admit it. It doesn't make me evil, just like those holding out for 'just the right job' aren't bad, just not helping themselves as much as possible. Two years is enough, sorry.
Speechless
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 2:56 p.m.
The world of Dickens, indeed. The probable end of benefits for the nation's long-term unemployed makes a fitting epitaph for last month's Republican victories, as well as for earlier failures of initiative from wimpish Democrats. Our corporate politicans work hard to breathe Dickens' impoverished society of the 1840s back to life, while loyal lapdogs in the Beltway and here in Tree Town cheer them on. Chalk up a likely holiday season victory for Scrooge and his excitable fan base of economic libertarians. Were Scrooge alive today, he'd have a weekday show on Fox News and would regularly author papers for the Cato Institute that would later be reprinted by Michigan's own Mackinac Center as well as Hillsdale College's influential Imprimis. The less regulated our economy is, the more amoral, capricious, and heartless it becomes. Historically, capitalism is notorious for being wildly unstable, and its history is filled with financial "panics" which regularly devastated the lives of millions. This is why Western European countries developed strong social programs and services, and why the middle class in most of these economies enjoy higher and far more stable living standards. Although by now it shouldn't, it never ceases to amaze me how libertarians and Republicans continually call for endless deregulation so that one day we can all celebrate living in a 'true' capitalist economy, just like in... China — the current utopia and role model for "free market" economics. Any intelligent six-year-old might ask why adults would allow such economic suffering to go on and on while doing almost nothing. Why should millions go without the means to make a living while the gilded set continues to party in style in executive suites and plush gated communities? Our laws and tax subsidies designed for the well-being of the well-off make it possible. Yet, a typical adult will answer such questions from six-year-olds by merely stating that it is best they not be asked, for resolving them isn't "practical" and might annoy the financially powerful in their quest for riches they no longer need. If we lived in a caring society, gift giving would last all year round, as it once did in the more genteel versions of non-European, non-industrial cultures.
ffej440
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 2:32 p.m.
- Macabre, Did you notice these "Ann Arbor" jobs you speak of on Monster are from metro Detroit to Chicago? Most of the jobs listed on this site are also degree required positions. -- Not sure whats up with Meijer, I know lots of people that have applied and never even got an interview. I think they just leave the "help wanted" sign out in case someone outstanding comes in for cheap. --- If you people really think it's easy to get work, just try it yourself. It took me a year and a half to land a job that pays 40% less than I used to make.
Hans
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 2:29 p.m.
Let me begin by telling my story. I'm turning 26 in a few weeks. I'm a single parent of a 5 year old. I'm a full time college student. And, of course, I'm unemployed. I had a nice job at UM. My department was dissolved. I was tried to get a job at Google - it was looking GREAT... until they wanted me for third shift. I applied for a job at UM, and they said my resume didn't reflect the level of experience they're looking for. (Despite being fully qualified for the position, and having actually DONE the job in the past.) I've been unemployed for 15 months. I'm 3 years into my Associates, and I have another year left. (I switched majors a few semesters ago.) My unemployment has now run out, my food stamps aren't enough for a week, let alone a month. If I leave my degree for a tenuous job, I have to start paying back my loans. I won't have a degree. There's more to think about than just myself here. So, what should I do? Cancel Christmas? Stop eating? Quit putting gas in my car, or heating the house? As much as I'd love to be working, I have a specific set of criteria that need to be met, in order to take a position. I need to have a flexible job that will let me continue my degree, so I don't have to pay back the loan immediately. I need a job that lets me come in after 9, so I can drop my kid off at school, and leave by 3:15 so I can pick her up again. Should we extend unemployment? Absolutely, yes. Do I need it? Absolutely, yes. Am I looking for work that will let me continue to be a single parent and finish my degree? Absolutely, yes. If you have work for me (I'm an IT consultant), please let me know! If not, you're one of many. Let's get this unemployment ball rolling again!
Soothslayer
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 2:05 p.m.
@Macabre Good eye, good eye! Oh wait... those entry level service jobs won't pay the mortgage. Nevermind..
Macabre Sunset
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 1:57 p.m.
Monster.com has almost 1,000 posted openings for the Ann Arbor area alone. So someone is hiring. The level of service you receive when you go to a fast-food restaurant is so incredibly bad that they're obvious desperate for responsible workers. Try walking into a Meijer and asking a question - not a pleasant experience. There are lots of jobs out there. Problem is, because the government is willing to pay you indefinitely not to work, that's a better situation than a job you find "beneath" you.
AlphaAlpha
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 1:49 p.m.
Does starting self employment cause loss of any benefits?
Roger Roth
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 1 p.m.
"Give a man a fish, you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he will eat for life." Right, provided of course, BP doesn't drill in the vicinity of his fishing ground or the gov. hasn't closed it because of overfishing. Gotta watch out for those hackneyed quotes. Many no longer apply. Then there are all those who did learn to "fish," as it were, but their fishing companies hung them out to dry, along with their pensions and health insurance because "fishermen" in other countries would/could work longer hours for far less money, and had single payer health insurance, thereby increasing their corporate employers profits. Further, there's more to life, as we live it, than eating. We have to have a place to live. We probably need electricity and and communications, transportation, health care, schooling, clothing, a giant-screen TV, eating out, cell phones, beer, and to pay the interest on our debt. Even if you needed none of the foregoing, and all you did was fish to eat, would you just roam around on state/federal property hoping the warden wouldn't throw you out as you cooked and ate your fish, night after night? Whadda way to live!
Soothslayer
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 12:57 p.m.
@stunshif - Murrow is trying to explain (I think) that you're seeing the world through rose coloured glasses; that being your own immediate situation. While the windfall of two jobs may represent effort and hard earned income it is nonetheless (at least implied as) ancillary or supplementary income. To simply give away and donate such valuable items as one's time and decent working order purchased items (which begs the question that they must have replaced by newer/better items) is beyond the wildest dreams of the unemployed. Of course they too, and the "working poor", would love to feel great about themselves while donating time and perfect working order merchandise but this is not an option. Most people on unemployment HAD decent jobs that simply disappeared. There is no hiring back as the jobs are not needed (higher productivity with less workforce + all our stuff comes from somewhere else now). The system pays unemployed to "go look for a job" but the job they did is gone and they cannot attempt (and most likely afford) education or re-training goals for the reasons cited by others here. The jobs they can find may be ok for additional income but that's not what is needed for the primary wage earner nor a long term solution to "the problem".
ffej440
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 12:57 p.m.
261 of the 535 members of congress are millionaires, compare that 50% ratio to the 1% of all Americans that are millionaires. Do you really think they care? Iraq reconstruction 57 Billion plus 16.2 more requested= 72 Billion... At least 9 Billion is missing. Since 2001 56 Billion missing from Afghanistan reconstruction. But hold on, we can't spend 12.5 billion to extend unemployment...... Seems to me congress could care less about Main St. USA
Mark A.
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 12:29 p.m.
Note that it's not illegal to apply for jobs that one won't get just to keep getting unemployment. It is illegal to work under the table and keep collecting. If people believe this is what's happening though, and don't like it, then petition our law makers to change the system. If people paid into the system and earned the credits, then they definitely deserve to use it. I do think that those receiving benefits should have to provide the names of at least three employers they applied at every week, which they don't currently have to do until they reach tier three of the federal extension. When I exited the military back in 1995, this was a requirement. I was surprised to find that it was no longer required to receive state benefits. I think that employers should be required to provide one on one placement services and career counseling and weekly benefits to employees that they lay off. I think that this would be much more beneficial than the current system. As far as the no worker left behind thing, I personally didn't think I'd be unemployed long enough to earn a degree. It's not until one is unemployed for longer than expected that one realizes that maybe one should have taken advantage of training in a different career, but then it's too late. Anyway, I must be one of the 600 people. My resume is at myblog.org. I need at least $30K/year to pay the bills for me and my family. I'm out of savings and running out of UIA benefits. Please help. I've been attending every tech networking event that I can find, and networking like crazy. I have an interview on Monday, but statistically it will likely not pan out.
russellr
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 12:27 p.m.
I understand some people can't get a job, but I would like to tell you Meijer is hiring go on there web page. Some people don't want a job because they make more money on unemployment. I'm not saying all just some. So if you want a job there are some jobs in Washtenaw county but it probably will be lower pay than you get in unemployment. I have told some people Meijer is hiring but they said they get more money on unemployment so why work.
stunhsif
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 12:22 p.m.
@EMRG, Trip to Mexico ( first vacation in 4 years) $2500.00, saved for 4 years to pay for it. Refinance was in 2009 not 2010, did not cost 25 grand, I cashed in investments to pay off medical and other bills. Daughter does not live with me, wife went to work so we can keep the house. Get your facts straight please, you were correct about the bedbugs. Good Day No Luck Needed
Dante Marcos
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 12:13 p.m.
Here is an opportunity for me to remind my fellow citizens that the GOP would have America believe it's on the side of the poor and working class. In reality, as many of us know, it's the house slave of corporate America. If we can fight back, and signal to our government we all Americans to prosper, and not just the handful of multibillion-worth corporations whose lobbyists own the GOP, we can do our part to ensure all our neighbors have a decent job with fair pay, and food on the table. But friends, if you continue to be hoodwinked by the GOP and Party of Tea leaders, you'll be giving your votes (and your money) to the ultrarich, who deserve neither. Power to the people.
a2chrisp
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 12:11 p.m.
I guess it takes hard times for people's true selfishness to come out. It's time for people to stop hiding behind the fact that they think people are abusing the system and just admit that they are selfish and don't care about anyone but themselves. Unemployment compensation is a very necessary thing. And it was created not just to help the people it supports but everyone, so that society doesn't have to bear the strain of 25% of the population not having any income and everything else that comes with it. If you are too hard-hearted to show compassion for your neighbors, at least realize that it benefits you as well.
stunhsif
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 12:07 p.m.
ERMG wrote: "At this festive season of the year, Mr. Scrooge," said the gentleman, taking up a pen, "it is more than usually desirable that we should make some slight provision for the poor and destitute, who suffer greatly at the present time. Many thousands are in want of common necessaries; hundreds of thousands are in want of common comforts, sir." One of my all time favorite movies, especially the 1951 version with Alastair Sim as Scrooge. Equating me with Mr. Scrooge are you. I think the Saline Men's Cross Country team would say otherwise as would Purple Heart which is coming to my house on tuesday to pick up several bicycles in excellent shape, a television, plus many winter coats and bags of adult, youth, and children's clothing and toys. All good stuff and tax deductible to boot.Purple Heart takes virtually anything as long as it is in good shape. Give Patricia a call at 517-974-0561 and she will send a Purple Heart truck to pick up your donations. Remember Scrooge at the end of the movie ERMG, he made up for his past selfishness! Good Day No Luck Needed
Mark A.
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 12:02 p.m.
stunhsif, I'm unable to get a job that I'm overqualified for, because they think that I won't be working there long. I applied for a first level tech support job at comcast. They were hiring 148 people. I'm way over qualified and couldn't land the job. The only question they asked me in the interview was why I wanted to work for Comcast. They didn't believe that I actually wanted to work there. If you can get me a job making $12 an hour that I can do, I'll do it. Note that it's harder for us non-white people to land a job, too.
Soothslayer
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 11:42 a.m.
As always just print more money and let the next generation deal with the mess! Wait till Medicare and Social Security are bankrupt!
worker
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 11:41 a.m.
@ERMG and @ypsituckian Educating the unemployed was the point of Granholm's No Worker Left Behind program. It offered financial support to take classes towards certain degrees. I also thought that taking 12+ credits counted as looking for a job for the unemployment purposes, but can't find the specifics. Funding was cut for the program in July, but as of June it had over 100000 participants, of which over 57000 finished their program. 75% of those that finished either found work or kept their job (program also targetted those about to be laid off). And i've anecdotal evidence that at least some of those who didn't finish their education found work before finishing their program.
RUKiddingMe
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 11:23 a.m.
Jon Saalberg, my reality comes from reality, not any channel (FOX or otherwise). I have worked in many places, from office admin to production facilities, businesses with 3 employees and 2000, in multiple towns in multiple states. And in every place, there has always been a significant percentage of the staff that requested fewer hours, made lotteries for taking layoffs, etc. in order to continue receiving aid of some sort. And I typically saw hot tubs and tv's bigger than I will ever have in their homes. The reality is that unless the person receiving aid doesn't want aid and wants to do better and progress and succeed on their own, then they will deliberately and purposefully keep themselves in situations that receive aid. None of that comes from television, news, or people telling me their opinion. It comes from never NOT seeing that in the many places I've worked. As has been said, it's great for people that actually need it. Unfortunately, it engenders just wanting it and chasing it for those who don't. Your knee-jerk claim about Fox news seems to me to be worse than people who are actually influenced by such channels.
AlphaAlpha
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 11:21 a.m.
Per BLS: November 2010 US U6 unemployment: unchanged at 17.0%.
stunhsif
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 11:01 a.m.
@ERMG, Yes, my wife did recently start working, what I said it the truth. I'll give you another success story. My 20 year old daughter dropped out of college for various reasons last October. She applied for and got a job at Saline Memory Care( Alzheimer's) in February this year. She works full time on the midnight shift and earns $12.00 an hour. She has excellent health care and benefits. She is a caregiver and has to bath and clean primarily older adults that can no longer care for themselves. She loves her job and loves her patients but her job is one that most people would not do. That is a fact because they have open positions they are unable to fill. My daughter has worked numerous double shifts so the patients don't go without care-givers. My daughter is hoping to attend CNA ( certified nuse assistant) classes so she can get another bump in pay of several bucks an hour. As I said, jobs are out there, people may just have to take a job they feel is below their skill set.
Technojunkie
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 10:51 a.m.
How about we cut all the corporate welfare programs, simplify the tax code, and make it easy in general to start new businesses with a minimum of red tape and tax burden? That's more-or-less what Gov. Snyder says he'll do. We'll see if it actually happens. Unfortunately, even if he succeeds that still leaves the insane policies coming out of DC but Texas has been managing relatively well despite those so there's hope. This is the time when people who have had a new business idea in the back of their minds need to step up and take risks. They won't do that if they think that the government, at any level, will smack them down. Handing out unemployment bennies and subsidies for well-connected corporations won't help, especially while threatening to raise taxes on the not politically connected as the federal government is doing now. Why stick your neck out when the tax man is waiting with an axe?
Gill
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 10:49 a.m.
The crisis right now was due to the lack of regulation over banks and insurance companies. The deregulation started back in Regan's time. Non-political persons control things in the USA. China can move things quickly because their government does control most everything. Can you imagine a 1-child per family law passing in this country?
ypsituckian
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 10:41 a.m.
Give a man a fish, you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he will eat for life. I wish government could somehow work out something with that philosophy. But, that's my utopia.
FoxviewFarm
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 10:35 a.m.
For the poster who said those looking are undertrained... There are probably many overtrained. Yes there are probably jobs for them somewhere but many of these folks spent all their savings before considering unemployment. So, that 304.00 really does make a difference. I agree that personal responsibility (aka integrity) may be missing in some, but I don't think it applies to all. To be 50-60ish, have lost your job, spent all your savings keeping your house/family afloat, and then to finally admit that you can't do it anymore? A reverse on that Master Card commercial- priceless. To lose your home after making faithful payments for 15+ years, to the 750 credit score 3 years ago to getting late notices- that? That is the crisis that is hitting so many. The people that have gone about their lives, giving to others suddenly unable to give the red kettle bell ringer a buck? This to me is the crisis. There were those that took advantage before and those that will again. But, for the silent middle-class person who finds their world flipped, these are the ones that will feel the impact of this yet these are the same ones who don't want you to know about their circumstances.
jcj
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 10:25 a.m.
BTW I know this is a fraction of those on unemployment. But I wanted to get this off my chest. How many people do you see that, at least look like they can't afford a meal, get a new tattoo every month?
Roger Roth
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 10:17 a.m.
@luv2read Interesting. My son just got his masters from a Taiwan university and wrote his thesis on this very subject-the human/environmental cost of the Chinese manufacturing boom. What you say, according to his research visiting Mainland China is absolutely true.
stunhsif
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 10 a.m.
Patricia Denig said: If theyre losing unemployment after almost two years and they dont have much savings, theyre going to be left hanging on a thread, she said. Unemployment typically doesnt cover all bills from the beginning. Unemployment is not meant to cover all the bills. 99 weeks of unemployment is more than fair, it is ridiculous. Why stop there folks, let's add another 9 to the 99 weeks and make it 999 weeks. That would show real compassion for those not able to find work. My wife, a college student and mother of a 2 year old with no real job experience was able to find a job in three weeks ( two months ago) making 9.50 per hour plus tips. Averaging out the tips she has earned thus far, she is making around 12.50 per hour. She started working because we had more money going out than coming in. She goes to work in the late afternoon so I can watch our 2 year old son and not have to pay daycare. Is it an ideal situation, of course not. I would rather have her home with me in the evening but you do what you have to do. There are jobs to be had, folks just don't want to take what is out there.
Barb
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:49 a.m.
Everyone commenting here should read the article @Jon Saalberg linked to. Actual analysis is vital to understanding what's actually going on instead of conjecture. "For every one of you...there are 80 of the people [taking advantage]..." where do you get this stuff? And @Alan G., good question. Kinda lazy reporting here.
jcj
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:38 a.m.
SonnyDog09 "Does the government keep statistics on how many of the unemployed are working side jobs "under the table?" The government would like us to think they are all knowing! But this would be a guess at best.
glimmertwin
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:33 a.m.
>> Does the government keep statistics on how many of the unemployed are working side jobs "under the table?" Exactly. And the government can't run itself, let alone police the abuses of unemployment. Like I said, I understand the need, and support it. I don't support the flagrant abuse.
a2scio
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:31 a.m.
Why not restrict unemployment after the initial period to those who really need it? Use a household income figure of say, $100,000 for a family of 4. If you have that income, no more unemployment.
jcj
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:27 a.m.
I have been very fortunate. I have drawn about 3 months worth of unemployment since I stared working in 1964. And nothing since the middle 70's. When there were help wanted signs everywhere there were those that would not work. And now that jobs are hard to find there are still those that would not take a job if it were offered. However there are MANY people that have lost their job or can't find one now through no fault of their own. We need to help these people somehow. Clownfish has it right. If we weren't for the Billions we give to counties that spit in our face. We could better take care of lots of things here at home. And so much of our foreign "aid" is put in the pockets of everyone except those that need it.
SonnyDog09
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:25 a.m.
Does the government keep statistics on how many of the unemployed are working side jobs "under the table?" I'd feel better about extending benefits to folks who were actually out of work and not to folks who are collecting unemployment while they work.
Hammer
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:23 a.m.
Note to AAN journalists. This would be a great project for a newspaper. Survey a sample of the unemployed and learn about their situation. You could ask questions that a government survey could not ask. I would find that quite interesting.
luv2read
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:17 a.m.
"Or maybe what about the light bulb plants that were closed in US and went to China because of Government policy? I read a story in Business wek about a factory in China that was built to make a componet for solar panels. It took 17 months from the time they realized they needed to make the part to the time the first part rolled off the line. It takes longer than than to get an environmental impact statement done." Hey, outdoor6709--have you SEEN an industrial area in China? I can guarantee you would not want to live down-wind or down-stream from one of their industrial areas nor would you want to work in one of their factories. The environmental and individual health costs of unlimited industrial growth are staggering, though the economic bottom line looks amazing. Every extreme comes at costs--too much deliberation/regulation limits growth, too little can be horrendous to the environment, local people, and workers. Searching for balance is critical. My thoughts are with people who are worried about the unemployment benefits running out...surely life in Michigan will get better for all of us.
David Cahill
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:12 a.m.
AnnArbor.com, could you please state clearly how long the present unemployment benefits last before they expire? A year? Two years? 99 weeks?
Huron74
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:02 a.m.
So what if a few cheats rip-off the system? I seriously doubt that busting them is worth the massive suffering that a cut-off of benefits will cause. The "kill 'em all and let God sort 'em out" mentality is just plain sadistic. There are plenty of budget cuts that can and should be made to help out the unemployed.
mich9fan3
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 9:02 a.m.
@braggslaw, if someone is out of a job, do you really think they can afford to get a different degree for another career path? Nobody living off of unemployment is thinking "wow great, $300 a week, I never have to work again." This money is to assist these people as they struggle to find a new job; it's certainly not enough to be incentive for people to remain unemployed. Is it really so bad to support our less fortunate neighbors?
Jon Saalberg
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 8:54 a.m.
watchingypsi, the problem is that for every one of you (or the you you present to make a point, anyway), there are 80 of the people glimmertwin mentioned - this is simply an untrue statement.This is what happens in our society when people get their reality from FOX news. Even a cursory web search will find plenty to refute this - here is just one story: The Popular Myth of Blaming the Unemployed
braggslaw
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 8:42 a.m.
99 weeks is a long time... close to two years. In that time period you could have an associate nursing degree from a junior college (nurses are in demand), an IT associates degree, an electronics associates degree etc. you could leave the state for greener pastures in the south or Texas which have relatively low unemployment. I feel bad for some of the families but personal responsibility must trump welfare at some point.
RUKiddingMe
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 8:34 a.m.
watchingypsi, the problem is that for every one of you (or the you you present to make a point, anyway), there are 80 of the people glimmertwin mentioned. The system is not one that provides any real motive to people to stop receiving assistance. And 2 years? C'mon.
clownfish
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 8:32 a.m.
Theory vs reality. Theory: 6 months is long enough to find a job. Reality: Unemployment is over 13 % in Mi. REAL unemployment is around 20%. For every job listed there are at least 5 people applying. For some jobs listed, as many as 2-300 people apply!! I know folks with good skill sets, accountants, engineers, that have needed up to a year to find a job. I know people without good skill sets that have been looking for over a year. Is it their fault for being under trained? Probably. But, some had really good jobs for decades and had no need to go back to school, until their company went out of business. Then, with no income, the thought of trying to go 4 -6 years at age 50 to get a bachelors degree is quite daunting. If we can give BILLIONS to Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Egypt and Israel, maybe we can give each other a helping hand and not whine about the few that game the system at the expense of those that don't? If we can think of giving people that are really well off another tax break worth tens of thousands (which does not seem to have created many jobs), maybe we can think of giving the less fortunate a lousy 300 bucks a week.
McGiver
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 8:17 a.m.
Keep paying people not to work, and they won't ever find a job. If you can't find a job after all this time on unemployment, you aren't looking. Enough is enough. 6 months should be enough.
watchingypsi
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 8:15 a.m.
Glimmertwin I am just like your friends that say: "I only apply for jobs I know I will never get so I can keep getting unemployment." The $300 a week I get is just super! It allows me to keep in touch with DTE by sitting on the phone and working out a payment plan. It allows me to really learn everything about my digital camera because I take so many pictures of all the stuff I am trying to sell on craigslist. I love that unemployment allows me to chug generic cold medicine, gargle with salt water and do all sorts of homopathic tricks to try and get over strep throat because who wants to feel better faster by going to a doctor? Unemployment allows me more free time with myself because I really didn't like sharing my work accomplishments and upcoming project with family and friends anyway. And when I have to put items back a Kroger because I added wrong when shopping, unemployment allows me to work on my toughness while I try to hold back tears while walking to my car. I love being unemployed. But when unemployment runs out I look forward to meeting a bunch of cool people at the food stamp, section 8 and medicaid offices. I can't Wait!!
Roger Roth
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 8:13 a.m.
Our government gives untold $$$ in subsidies, tax breaks, incentives, considerations, bailouts, to non-individuals, and has done so as long as I can remember. Why is it, do you suppose, that individuals gang up one one another when some individuals gets a little--and I mean relatively paltry--hunk of change from the fed? You wouldn't think this is a conspiracy on the part of our gov. to distract us from greater issues as well as dividing us so that we don't become united in our rage against our corporatetocracy, would you? People in Europe are hitting the streets because govs. want to raise the retirement age to years under what it is in this country. The big picture, in my feeble mind is that, world over, stock markets, corps. and most certainly, banks, seem to be doing quite well in this recession. 95% of individuals are not. Duh!!! When someone gets a few cents from the fed, phone them and congratulate them. Throw a block party!!!
glimmertwin
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 7:31 a.m.
I hate this. The government should privatize the administrating of unemployment benefits. If I hear one more person tell me "I only apply for jobs I know I will never get so I can keep getting unemployment" I'm going to turn them in. The concept of unemployment for those that need it a good thing. But how it is completely abused is not.
outdoor6709
Sat, Dec 4, 2010 : 6:56 a.m.
You have to wonder how many jobs Michigan has lost because of bad Government policy and to much regulation. There was a small plant up by Fenton that closed and went to Tenessee. Why? Because the local government would not let the trucks leave the plant after 9 PM. To noisy for the residenceses across the street. Or how about the power plant near Dexter that was not built because it would ruin the view? Or maybe what about the light bulb plants that were closed in US and went to China because of Government policy? I read a story in Business wek about a factory in China that was built to make a componet for solar panels. It took 17 months from the time they realized they needed to make the part to the time the first part rolled off the line. It takes longer than than to get an environmental impact statement done. Then get the permits, and if you get the permits approved, then some group can take you to court and the legal system will tie you up until you are broke. The problem is to few people understand how wealth is created and how countries prosper. Government needs to be a partner not a weapon.