As I've pointed out, capitalism does have its share of people who have,
and do, half-ass their way to their big gain. Everyone, including yours truly,
has had an experience or two at a car dealership. In the summer of 1990,
I was a tired, and sometimes stupid, 26-year-old. One day I visited a Dallas
dealer that was then next door to the building I worked in. Tired from lack
of sleep as I often was working graveyard, I damn near bought a new Escort
just so I could get out of there. I forget how I got my car keys back. When I
did buy a new car 2 years later (at another dealer), the experience wasn't as
bad, but I was trapped into buying an accessory that was already on the
car (but not included in the list price). And they charged me nearly
$200.00 for a radio (Not a factory unit) that probably only cost them
$50.00 (It sucks!!!)! The car itself is a jewel, and was a very good bargain.Like many people do, I rent an apartment, and have also experienced rent
increases, mediocre-to-shitty service, and decreased community amenities
(The last property I was at was notorious for taking away amenities, while
at the same time increasing rent!). There are many apartments, especially in
Dallas, that accept Section 8 residents. And it's been widely reported that
these owners (or owner corporations) also get subsidies from HUD that are
supposed to be used for community improvements (An example of corporate
welfare), but instead many of these assholes pocket the money!
Like you, I am pissed off about this stadium bullshit. I fully agree that
those rich billionaires can afford to buy the land, materials, and pay for
the contractors themselves, probably with cash!!! They don't need my taxes!!!
I also agree that ADM has no business accepting federal subsidies, and that
McDonald's can easily pay for its overseas advertising itself!!! I don't
believe in ANY kind of unnecessary welfare!!!
The best suggestion I can offer to at least reduce the above is to first,
get out and VOTE!!! Democracy needs maintenance to run right, just like
your automobile engine needs oil to last. Singer/songwriter Steve Earle
said it best in his liner notes - "If you don't vote, don't bitch!" Also,
push for better service and products. Get together with other customers,
and petition the stores and firms you do business with to shape up! You can
start with Wal-Mart and Kmart! Their service has really gone downhill! I'm on
a tight budget like many people, and depend on discount stores for many
of my needs.
Now for the positives. Discount Tire is an excellent place to buy a set, when
needed. Their service exceeds the more expensive places, and they offer free
rotation, and flat repair!!! Kwik Kar is a decent place to get an oil change,
they get you in and out, and do it right! And finally, while Best Buy isn't perfect, they are a good place to get a decent stereo for less than $160.00, and they have a better
CD selection than many of the more expensive music chains.
