Seancommented onIf you're 50-plus, get on the hiring trends bandwagon!... "We need to look at our strengths and determine how we can put them to good use. IF we do what everyone else is doing, there is a strong chance we will get the same results. I saw a "presume" a few weeks ago, which was a video presentation that was sent to the CEO...they got the job"
Arnie Bravercommented onInteract... "Learned the last tier of unemployment benefits (EB) is being terminated effective 2/18 because "Michigan no longer meets Federal criteria ". Me & 29000 others lose this benefit. 12 weeks to go.Sucks!
LARA - Extended Benefit Program Ends in Michigan - Up to 20 weeks of... michigan.gov"
ken tekielacommented onEarly responses to our two-year follow up survey... "We must fight, stay strong and let the world know that we are the hidden majority and we have power. We have to come togather and let our voices be heard. Dammit, i am tired of this. Contact me and let out voices be heard!!!"
Patricia Sahertiancommented onValentina Janek... "Valentina, it is good to see you moving forward and growing the Long Island Breakfast Club. Best of luck."
E. Brian Starvaggicommented onRick Barrett... "Rick - first thanks for your service in the military, i was just a little fart when you was serving in the Vietnam War and to be in a Special outfit is truly remarkeable. the way i see it - you are extremely valuable asset to anyone. All the hard life you had in growing up in Louisana, the many years of military and special training, the civilian crafts that you have aquired would just floor employers if they gave you a chance. I am like you i was raised to do my job and the military trained me well - i am capable of so much with all the lives i have been responsible for and the millions of dollars of Army Equipment, yet I cannot even get a job. I am back to school and I am going to try harder this time around because I too dont beleive in giving up."
E. Brian Starvaggicommented onJoe Magnone... "Joe, firstly sir- thank you for your service in the mill! secondly, I pray for your health! thank you for sharing this story even though there was a great deal of pain to speak it. You are right completely, people should not be treated this way. My grandfather retired from the mill, my poor father never got his retirment- he was like you - he was swindled even though it was a accident and not his fault. I too wanted to be a steel worker but i am glad i chose to go to the military. There was a time when i was mistreated also in the military, i had to go to War and was denied the chance to go see my daughter- what a thing to do and not knowing if your gonna come back. I am feel very bad for guys like you who are hard working, smart, qualified people. Its ironic, I had 22 years in the military as a leader with numerous training responsible for millions of dollars of equipment and was responsible for peoples lives yet I cannot find work.
I was really fired up hearing your story and my " Read the rest »
E. Brian Starvaggicommented onJoe Price... "Joe
thanks for your service in the mill, thanks for sharing. I would have been a 3rd generation steel worker but i decided to go in to the military service. No offense to anybody for those who tried to follow their grandfather and fathers foosteps. I too wanted to be a steel worker like my family and realized it was hard but prideful. I have had a hard life in the military, wars etc, but it was the smartest thing i ever did. I listened to older folks in the late 80's. but.....now i too am like you, after 22 years as a military leader who has been responsible for millions of dollars of equipment, ledership training, a degree, and i cannot get a job. I feel like you .... Mr. President please explain to all of us who are very qualified adn like your self very qualified what are we suppoised to do? Why wont they hire us? '
God Bless Take Care Joe"
R Smithcommented onAn Over 50 and Out of Work interviewee who needs help... "Dear Mary, my name is R. Smth, my wife and I has the same problem. We are both are educated and over 50 been looking for work for 2 years. we got to the point where we got a car title loan to pay bills and rent thinking we may find a job by time to pay the first month on the loan, that dnt happen. Now we've created another problem. Rent, bills and loan is due. This made my wife very sick. Maybe our faith is not as strong as it should be? We still believe that God will send someone or someone will send what we need to manage through. Mary we feel you, just build your faith up as we will do the same"
Juan Salvaticommented onBrian King and Jessica Goldstein... "Dear Jessica & Brian ~ I wanted to let you know guys that I felt deeply touched not only by the scope and honesty of your heart aching story but, most importantly, by your unique human dimension courageously exhibited in your discourse. Only two weeks went by since I started to gradually envisioned some palpable light at the end of the tunnel, having myself been living a 'hand to mouth existence' for well over four years. Perhaps you may have heard similar stories all the time, but I would like to humbly point out that I am a professional actor originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina who has amassed a consistent body of work mainly in the USA, Europe and obviously in Latin America who's still struggling to make ends meet. Having earned my MFA and toured the USA many times over doing Regional Theatre as well as being part of the International Theatre Festival arena over the course of three plus decades, I also feel nothing but disheartened by the sour reality that we performing art" Read the rest »
Williamcommented onExplanation of Unemployment Extension... "What we really need is to get the economy going so there are more jobs available....but ever since Congress (well, one party) refused to pass the $1.5 trillion stimulus economists said we needed at the beginning of 2009, it's been obvious that this is going to be a long downturn.."
joseph sangataldocommented onDr. Carl Van Horn... "http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/31/long-term-unemployed-middle-class_n_942734.html
see article how I am laid off at 54"
Kevin Morgancommented onJoan McCleskey... "Don't give up. There is always a way if you can see it, and often it is in the front of our faces, but so close we cannot see it. Wishing you well, as you struggle with this. The real trick is to hang on to one's own sense of self worth. Kind Regards, kevin aka @FitOldDog"
Peter Johansencommented on"I Tried, No More," from a former facility manager, who is 50+... "I mentioned to a career center employee at a job fair that employment challenges are like challenges that Rosa Parks felt when Rosa wanted to sit at the front of the bus. All of a sudden, the career center employee said, "I can not hear you." Just watch "Boycott" and then you will see a correlation. I also mentioned to the career center employee that on an application, I wrote, "if you can not understand discipline or sacrifice, then I do not understand what you are looking for." You was the California State employment agency. Sacrifice refers to a Veteran and discipline refers to education. The career center employee said, "You said that?" Yes - Freedom of speech and the press."
Peter Johansencommented onBob Delpizzo... "Being out of work since Aug. '07 and being a 99'r is a challenge. The current jobs bill includes segregation such as 'do not hire the unemployed' creates a dilemma. The challenges that exist are equivalent to what Rosa Parks faced and must be addressed. That challenge is discrimmination and an American Tradition."
Davidcommented on'Losing my home' by Bill Davis... "Dear Bill
You have many brothers & sisters in your forclosure family
who share in your pain. You are not alone & for whatever
Its worth your in very good company.
It's been a humbling journey for me & so I can identify with &
respect your pain. My journey from NYC housing projects, first
job at 14 as dishwasher, first generation born in US, first in my family
To not only graduate from a public state college, but also
achieve a US Air Force commission as an Officer,
Service as Nuclear Weapons officer in Strategic Air Command
and then law school with some GI bill assistance
was an evolution, that I never suspected would lead back
financial disempowerment especially since I always lived well
below my means & never really cared much for keeping with the
Jones' I purchased & drove low mileage used vehicles, &
I am proud to say even in my very best years I was regular
at garage sales, thrift shops & consignment stores; proud
t" Read the rest »
Kansas Citycommented on'Losing my home' by Bill Davis... "Bill, this is beautifully written. I can feel your pain and anguish. I'm so sorry that you found yourself in this situation and pray that things are improving for you and your family. May you find comfort, peace and hope."
Grahamcommented onMike Risinger... "Mike i feel for you, i understand your situation as i am almost in the same situation as you when you say your wife and kids dont love you anymore. The thing is they dont realise they would not have a roof over their head and having the lifestye that they have now if it wasnt for you. Your kids are going to be over 50 and will realise then your situation. God Bless"
Patriciacommented onOver 50 interview at Occupy Wall Street with Iraq vet... "Thank you very much for your service to our country. I appreciate what you have done. My father was a traumatized combat veteran who never got help. I am glad you are speaking out. Best wishes for you and your family-beautiful daughter. God bless----"
Lost Sailorcommented on"I Tried, No More," from a former facility manager, who is 50+... "I TOTALLY have felt the same INSULTS TO THE SENSES that you have my friend. And it's funny, I might have slipped by if I hadn't followed my moral compass. You know, the one these talk-radio bastards yak on and on about, but have used or owned, or would know how to follow if it fell into their hands.
I found myself faced with a HUGE choice in late 04 that caused me to choose between the IP guru that flew around the country fronting for a major vendor or working near home plate for a local biz to fill the necessary role of single dad. There were problems that could not be counseled away and I made the decision MY FATHER WOULD HAVE MADE. Well, it worked for a while thought the inconvenience of an IT Director who couldn't drop everything and run in at 3am proved less attractive than working the poor programmer that worked along with me being forced to run the whole shooting match (Last I heard his health was on it's least leg). Since then, my divorce finalized and to save the kids " Read the rest »
Johncommented onAn Over 50 and Out of Work interviewee who needs help... "I am John P. I am a 47 old (round up and I am), college educated (student loan still owed), 7 year US Army Vet, that is working three jobs, doing dirty hard work, packing earthworms, slamming cans (5 cent refund center), and sweeping streets. Oh, I just got let go from that one but (f) it! They called to let me know on my only Federal Holiday I will ever celebrate again. I got lucky and was able to celebrate with the politicians, bureaucrats, and judges. I use to hate them damn attorneys but I salute you counselor(s) saw you working too... My new address is: http://www.facebook.com/OccupyBuffalo
Video Link: http://www.overfiftyandoutofwork.com/"
Kelleycommented onKelley Briggs... "Yes, I did use my unemployment as an opportunity to learn new skills. I enrolled in an online university and earned an Associates degree in Criminal Justice."
Kelleycommented onKelley Briggs... "Yes, we had 2 incomes for most of 30 years, but our expenses were almost as much as our incomes. We always paid our bills on time or early, but there was not a lot left over. Childcare expenses that allowed me to work were in excess of $6000/year for 5 years. We also helped my mom out with some of her expenses when she ran out of money several years after my dad passed away. Maybe it was just bad luck when our cars broke down or had other unexpected expenses, but every time we had "a little extra", it never had the chance to build into anything. With a mortgage of over $1500/month, 2 incomes totalling $90 doesn't go very far."
Joan Freemancommented onOver 50 Interview at Occupy Wall Street with former social studies teacher... "The “2011 Fair Playing Field Act to Protect American Workers Against Age Discrimination” http://signon.org/s/HkT7QV
CORPORATE GENOCIDE =BOOMERS+55+ers are 43 % of the LONG TERM
UNEMPLOYED the HIGHEST RATE of any age group!
Nearly 1/2 Of Oldest Unemployed Have Been Jobless For Over A Year!
A 2009 Supreme Court Ruling in the case of (Robert Gross Vs FBL,
Farm Bureau Life) the 83rd Largest Company in the world changed the age discrimination laws as we knew them. Adding insult to injury; CLARENCE THOMAS WROTE a new law that nullified & ended the age discrimination portion of the Title VII ADEA of 1967 Act that protected women, ethnicity, age discrimination, religion & disabilities in civil rights law. Age discrimination was first, what will be next??
These are the results of the Clarence Thomas law http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/02/long-term-unemployment_n_1071851.html?ref=business"
Mollycommented onNew Occupy Wall Street interview and a new resource... "I can't help but think what can I do? This web site is doing something. I am no longer a job creator but I want to vote for those who believe in social action, justice. I need a new economic vision."
Jim Beelercommented onMary Sironen... "Advertise yourself as a consultant. Hire out for private parties. You have too much experience to throw in the towel now. Just refold the towel and "shake that thang" lady...(the drink that is...)"
Obbopcommented onOver 50 Interview at Occupy Wall Street with former social studies teacher... "I was a substitute teacher for three years, a mid-life career change that due to many circumstances did NOT pay off for me.
I was exposed, though. to K-12 educational systems since a substitute teacher teaches at ALL grade levels and class-types.
I really enjoyed the 11th and 12th graders and especially in the social studies arena that was my specialty I had obtained my two teaching credentials in.
Sadly, I left the educational field behind since there was more laying-off than hiring and most openings desired a coach for sports more than someone knowledgeable and excited about the subject.
There was also, as the the interviewed teacher mentioned... well, I declare that the USA educational systems, ascertained by first-hand experience and MUCH reading about the matter, is mostly a method of disseminating propaganda... of brainwashing USA youth.
Notice how so many elites and others send THEIR youth to certain academies etc. so THEIR youth are not indoctrinated as the lowly" Read the rest »
topazmoon11commented onOver 50 Interview at Occupy Wall Street with former social studies teacher... "Really enjoyed the comments of Warren Brodhead and would have loved to have had him for a social studies teacher when I was growing up in the 1970's in Salt Lake City, UT. Perhaps if I had I wouldn 't have been so worried about success thereby falling off the student loan cliff when I went back to law school as an older adult student and racked up massive student loan debt that has not paid off, or been paid off!"
The Snarky Boomercommented onOVER 50 INTERVIEW WITH TEMP WORKER AT OCCUPY WALL STREET... "In my humble opinion, UUhhmm (The Snarky Boomer types again) When the 1% has manged to eliminate the middle class completely (the backbone of America) there will be no one left to buy their d@%# stuff. Less taxes to collect- infrastructures will (and are) crumbling. They (the 1%) are cannibalizing themselves and to greedy to see it. Cut staff to up the black ink, that can only go on so long. Its just common sense folks, not economic genius. Greed NEVER gets enough, there is not enough money in the world to satisfy the 1%, but then again money buys power, power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts, absolutely."
The Snarky Boomercommented onVirginia Montelongo... "Not sure what your background is- but you might want to look into "RentaGrandma.com" It originated in Los Angles, CA- for all types of domestic help- pet sitting and personal assistant. You have to have a background check."
The Snarky Boomercommented onValentina Janek... "I wish I lived somewhere other than the end of the world. That is why on line means so much to me. Nothing near me unless I want to drive 50-60 miles."
The Snarky Boomercommented onKevin Lincoln... "I tried that myself-reinvent my career choice. This has been 10 years ago, then I was 50. When I started my life's journey, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I got married VERY young and before the age of 20, I was offered an opportunity to work in a bank, in bookkeeping. I jumped on the chance. So for approximately 14 years that is what I did. I worked in every department and took all the classes I could and made it to a middle management position. So, suffice to say, I did the first thing that was available whether it was my talent or passion, it was a living. Then after children were on their own, I decided to make a change and went back to school and trained for medical records coding. Made it through the class with A's and got the certificate. Came out and applied at local hospital, no openings. Applied for advertised job opening at a drug store. The first question asked, was ..have you ever worked in a medical office or setting before? Well, no, I had been in banking m" Read the rest »
Matthew Goldsmithcommented on"I Tried, No More," from a former facility manager, who is 50+... "I just wanted to say I really respect your summary of your experiences and to say I am only 24 and also used to believe these sorts of things the governments trick us into believing. I am part of the occupy London movement and hope that we can start to open peoples eyes to the fact the carpet will be pulled from under all of them too, so we that we can start a discussion on a new type of system and no we are not anti capitalist as the media keeps portraying us, we are just concerned at how life now seems to be more about profit and less about life for everyone these days, I also wan't to draw you attention to a video on the net as I can tell you with a certainty that almost all these (financial) problems we are having are almost all down to banks please watch this video and then do ya own research you will be shocked, youtube "Abolish the Federal Reserve by Ralph Epperson [Full Presentation]" kind regards and respect to all of you that have had the carpet pulled from underneath you"
The Snarky Boomercommented onOne unemployed older American's miserable mortgage refinance saga... "I too am a now 60, but at 59 pink slipped Boomer. I started my blog back in July of 2011 to reach out to other pink slipped Boomers. I have a lot on my blog that may be of help to some - http://boomersberg.com/how-to-retire-without-fort-knox-as-your-retirement-fund/ Also is a link library to sites that could be helpful. My husband and I did the reverse mortgage deal and I have my RV paid for. May end up living in it. I really love RVing, but if your health is not good, that becomes a poor option.
I started my blog, thinking of how Eskimo legend states that the old eskimo's are set adrift on an iceberg with a small ration of food- exactly what I felt like and still do, but mentally I am coming out of the dark pit my mind was in."
The Snarky Boomercommented on"I Tried, No More," from a former facility manager, who is 50+... "The sentiments of a kindred Boomer. I resonate with these words for I too have been on the same receiving end of the nasty "New Reality". Those born from 1946 to 1964 are supposed to be in the Boomer Generation, so there is a commonality of experiences during that time span. But now those who have not been smacked down by current economic conditions cannot relate. I am seeing that nothing divides people better than money. The have's and the have not's. Young, old, black, white or martian- without resources the world takes on a whole new perspective and you grab onto what sanity you have left, so that does not go out the door too. http://about.me/snarkyboomer"
M. Castleberrycommented onOne unemployed older American's miserable mortgage refinance saga... "I am in the same situation also. My husband and I have a small business that has almost come to a hault, directly related to the economy. We have almost all equity in our property and can't refinance . What does that tell you? I am talking about 30 years of blood, sweat and tears in this property. If we lose it, we have nothing else. Trying to sell, but there are no buyers. This government does not care. They want to own everything we have and control us all. I feel there is no hope left."
Howie Appelcommented onProfessor Andrew Sum... "I'm well over 50, in fact I'm 64 and living in Orlando, Florida. I'm a veteran as well. I am a former Corporate Recruiter and have been out of work since Feb 09. As a method of paying forward I review resumes for people and run ProNet Career Resources. Now I am seeking a way to survive. Not sure what to do."
Suecommented onProfessor Andrew Sum... "Laura, please take a look at the site www.shadowstats.com, where you will be able to find alternate unemployment charts at http://www.shadowstats.com/alternate_data/unemployment-charts
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported an unemployment rate of 9.1 percent for September 2011 (U3). The BLS reported an unemployment + underemployment rate of 16.5 percent for September 2011 (U6). Neither of these figures includes the 1,037,00 discouraged jobseekers."
Suecommented onRudy Limas... "Laura, thank you very much for your generous offer! When we went to Oregon and interviewed Rudy, the local TV station covered the story that Over 50 and Out of Work was interviewing older unemployed workers in the Portland area. A local businessman who owns a medical parts manufacturing company, saw the TV story and hired Rudy, who now has a full-time job with benefits! We posted this happy news about Rudy on our blog!"
Joan Freemancommented onProfessor Andrew Sum... "Of the 11% do u know exactly how many workers age 45 & older are unemployeed. Many are no longer counted on the unemployment & virtually invisible!!"
Gerard Stroycommented onBrian King and Jessica Goldstein... "Thanks a lot for your life-video....although not from the US ,I can so wholesomely relate to the story of both of you! Counting myself to the"lost generation " from just before the internet,I really recognized when Brian said "i've never been able to prosper"despite all my qualities. The difference being that the road my partner and myself together have gone has lead us from the Netherlands to Germany to New Zealand to Switzerland back to the Netherlands. I recognize the wit mixed with disilusion and anguish in your body language. We had an extremely fragmented carreer,and ended up self employed in Holland.By one way or another we have managed to save 1100.000 eur by virtue of ultra frugal rational attitudes towards litteraly everything.We have never ever made any choice of the heart, always of the mind though.
We had to learn fluent German and learn to understand Swiss German with all its antics.But our minds have transcended fear. Although I always felt an inherent dismay of" Read the rest »
Gerard Stroycommented onAnthony Lalos... ""We are the richest country in the world" Have you heard about countries like Norway, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Sweden Finland, Netherlands,Denmark,Singapore ...you would very soon find out when traveling there that your statement is inherently wrong...even when we let the unfavourable exchange rates for the US dollar out....the US media make no mention of this, and US citizens are poorly traveled generally... Gerard, Netherlands"
Gerard Stroycommented onJanet Falk... "Great to hear that finally feelings of sheer anger and disgust do exist and are being pronounced!
Gerard Netherlands 53 years old"
Gerard Stroycommented onSheila Cooper... "Dear Sheila, You appear to be such an amiable person....what really upsets me is when you tell that you were escorted out of your workplace, as a piece of refuse so to speak.How come that there is no outright anger expressed. It all conveys an impression of powerless compliance with an in itself totally immoral dehumanized working environment .Sickening from my perspective, but probably an unassailable symptom of human commodification. Gerard Stroy, 53 years , Netherlands."
Gerard Stroycommented onBill Davis... "Everytime I am just dumbfounded by the fact that these people haven't made any substantial savings during their "prosperous times" and by that I don't mean 10.000$ or so. How can it be that myself having had all the adversities in terms of unemployment, years idle against my will, living in what you refer to as socialist Europe, as a self employed person taxed with additional purpose taxations in my home country Holland , and still be able to save 1000000Euros and more.All this despite having suffered from all three major downturns on the stock market.There must be a fundamental (cultural) different pattern in spending behavior. Honestly, touring the US southwest this summer, 6500km, I have been able to see the difference in attitudes.A patty example...I live in a highly energy efficient house, I use 35 Watts for lighting.An average small coffe bar ,I have counted easily reaches 3000Watts during the day, only lighting! does this ring some, some, sort of bell? Gerard, Netherlands"
Rich Tanenbaumcommented onOVER 50 INTERVIEW WITH TEMP WORKER AT OCCUPY WALL STREET... "A degree is "sociology" is not worth the paper it's printed on. This is the result of poor advisement and a catchall field of study for the academically confused. If she had followed in her mother's footsteps and taken nursing, she'd have a job today. College for the masses is not what people imagine. It's a shame, but far from too late. This kid needs to get into a graduate program in nursing, or another aspect of the medical field which requires licensure. Then she'll get a job."
Mollycommented onOver 50 interview with former construction worker at Occupy Wall Street... "What an interesting guy. It is so true. We had a revolution, a civil war, a labor movement, a European War about systems. They matter if we think liberty and justice for all means anything. We have more liberty but hardly more justice today. Ignorance, sickness, hunger need more than an individual alone to overcome. They need systems created and regulated by justice. We are not so stupid we can't figure out the liberty part of it also."
Janis Chamouncommented onOlder Entrepreneurs: Michael Grottola... "Thank you for sharing your inspirational story. It struck a chord with me; a chord that REALLY needed striking. I lost my publishing business in Oct. '08 and have been struggling every since, trying to get back into corporate communications and marketing. I know in my heart it won't happen, because I'm too experienced and talented, but have been terrified to start another business, after losing everything the last time. Thank you for providing the kick in the butt I needed. Best of luck to you!"
Suecommented onOVER 50 INTERVIEW WITH TEMP WORKER AT OCCUPY WALL STREET... "Thank you for your empathetic and forceful response, Julie! Gerlyne was not ungrateful for the boost in life she received from her parents. She is wondering what the future will hold for her."
Julie Johnsoncommented onOVER 50 INTERVIEW WITH TEMP WORKER AT OCCUPY WALL STREET... "Obviously Faith you are without empathy. Are you in her shoes??? If not, try putting yourself there. I run across people just like you every single time I protest with OWS. People like you roll down their car window and yell, "Get a job!". Well, to you well meaning types - I have a job, and have worked with the same company for 7 years now. It pays better than what most people seem to have and I feel very fortunate. I live in a house that is paid for. So, I have a job and feel fairly secure, if that means anything. Why do I go out and protest? For my children and grandchildren, for people like the woman in this video, for the homeless person who cannot get work because of emotional issues, for the prisoner who has served time and has been paroled and won't find work, for the person who is over 50 and won't easily find another job when up against a younger person, for the addict who can't find the way to a job. I'm sick of rich people, even those who were born with the silver spoon in" Read the rest »
Joan Freemancommented onProfessor Andrew Sum... "OPEN LETTER : To those who are being paid to protect us.
EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) Representatives Congress and the Supreme Court
OLDER WORKERS NEED YOUR HELP IN LIFTING THE BURDEN a 2009 Supreme Court Ruling in the case of (Robert Gross Vs FBL, Farm Bureau Life) the 83rd Largest Company in the world has inflicted on older workers.
Its PUBLIC RECORD that Clarence Thomas wrote a new law that nullified and ended the age discrimination portion of the 1967 EEO Act that protected women, ethnicity age discrimination, religion, disabilities.
THIS RULING HAS INFLICTED inhumane hardships on older workers and clearly violated their civil and human rights. It allows biases in want ads that disqualify the unemployed, in the screening and interview process; and perpetuates long term unemployment. Age discrimination creates jobs lose, depletes life savings, college, and retirement funds. Predictably blue and white collar workers are pushed into poverty with no heal" Read the rest »
Shiva Steve Ordogcommented onOccupy Wall Street: Renewing American Democracy? ... "Great article. The people I am meeting at Occupy Raleigh mirror this diversity and the concerns mentioned. This is about have a more democratic economy. Adam Smith would not recognize the current system as what he had in mind. The corporate bosses, rich, politicians, etc. are the new aristocracy. We need to reduce their influence and spread the benefits so all participate.
Shiva Steve Ordog"
The Snarky Boomercommented onGeorge Dys... "A lot of us deal with the frustration everyday of what used to work, now no longer does. Like monkeys in a lab experiment we were trained to do X + X = reward. Now X+X= feces. What is very frustrating is we have no previous experience on how to cope with the situation most of us find ourselves in. The learning curve is VERY steep and some are being shoved over the cliff."
The Snarky Boomercommented onKelley Briggs... "Look at it as a chance to learn new skills. 1. How to live on next to nothing -skill translated: you know how to move a company from red to black on the books. 2. Negotiating with bill collectors- skill translated: Hard negotiating skills that help a company navigate to a win/win 3. Dealing with frustration- skill translated: how to cope with frustration in the work place. 4. Writing/ interview for different job opportunities- skill translated: Improved communication skills verbal, written and visual."
Mollycommented onOver 50 and Out of Work at Occupy Wall Street... "Help us all understand if there is another way past simplistic slogans of capitalism's triumphalism and market deification. Can intelligent citizens find a new way to by pass money-media power? Thank you for not having a point of view besides the reporting of the gross evil of the over 50 unemployed."
Jim Beelercommented onOver 50 and Out of Work at Occupy Wall Street... "Complaining about corporate greed and denying "we the corporations" provides little life to our employment problem. If you tell me as a business owner I am not allowed to run my business, then why should I be in business? If you want to run your own business, the get a license. Denying my rights will eliminate your employment. You can make me give back my money, but you cannot force me to stay in business."
Virginia Amslercommented onOver 50 and Out of Work at Occupy Wall Street... "Thank you for the information your pictures convey, thank you for a simple and dignified explanation of what is happening. I learned more from your piece than I have from any other media coverage. Now I want to learn more. Please keep up your coverage behind the camera and in a written story."
Kevin Morgancommented onRobert Lotstein... "Hi!
You're right, it will come along, but remember that chance favors the prepared mind so prepare. I was terminated about one year ago, and I too have been calculating the life of my savings and so forth. My approach is really described (in somewhat manic terms, but amusing) in The Four Hour Work Week, by Tim Ferriss. You can see what I am starting at http://olddogsintraining.com. We'll see if I manage to make a buck. That's my plan. Hang in there. Boy, you don't look 65, and I wish I had your head of hair. Best wishes. -k @FitOldDog aka kevin morgan"
Sandy H. Millercommented onGeorge Dys... "Thanks for sharing George. I related to many of your thoughts. I am not sure there is an answer at this time? I think our once amazing country needs to bottom out completely before things will change for the better and we begin to rise out of the hole we are in. Most folks are in denial as to how BAD "it" is... I think a group of us need to get together are pool ideas, money and anything else it takes to move forward! We all need to drop our EGOs and put our heads/resources together. Strenght in numbers is still a good one!
Just say'in... Good Luck!!
- Sandy H. Miller / former successful entrepeneur"
Eyeswideshutcommented onGeorge Dys... "Thought I'd follow-up with a little story. I just returned empty handed from a trip to S. NV. I had found a connection which networked to a job. After a phone call and several emails it became apparent I'd best take a drive and show up in person. I did but suddenly sensed a problem. "I never promised you a job" is what I got. I didn't say it but, yes you did. It makes me feel like I am reading things into communications, wishful thinking. I just drove a thousand miles and got hosed? Sure did! I did not become confused or make a mistake. These types of issues are new to me, I'm not used to this insincerity in the job market. It has been two years with no sense this stupidity will end. Not a pity party, just truth. I guess there are a number of employers who have zero integrity and getting worse. Seems we are all in a tight spot. Remaining positive is becoming a monumental task. Damn hard to uphold self-confidence, worth and value with this crap kicking me in the crotch all the time, gee" Read the rest »
Laura Lee Carter aka the Midlife Crisis Queencommented onHope and persistence pay off for one of our interviewees... "Congratulations Virginia! I went through a similar experience in the early 2000's which inspired me to change everything in my life. That's how I became the Midlife Crisis Queen, and how I began advocating for those in midlife hell. It's those totally humbling experiences which teach us the most about ourselves."
Suecommented onInteract... "Brian, thank you for your comment on our site. I regret that we reached our 100 interviews before we were able to interview coal miners for our project. Did you work or are you currently employed in the coal industry?"
Brian W. Patoskycommented onInteract... "My Grandfather, Joseph Lampel, was Western Pa U.M.W.A. President until his death, this past July, and I watched the same thing happen to the coal industry. Presently, we have been warned that St. Joe Lead, now Horsehead industry, will be closed down in a few years, O.S.H.A., the E.P.A., and our Government in general is anti-business, with staggering fines, and unattainable guidelines, and restrictions that choke, and kill even successful businesses! What a shame!
Brian W. Patosky"
Peter Johansencommented onGeorge Dys... "I have been and presently in the same boat. As far as resumes are concerned, one can become confused what to apply for. When employers state, "You do not want this job" or "How long do you expect to be around" or "You do not fit," then arrogance becomes a norm. Oh, by the way, an attorney will say the condition is not discrimmination."
Peter Johansencommented onSheila Bliven... "I started working when I came over, had to learn English, and when I needed money. Thus, practically everything at a young age and gaining experience. Now, after applying to various qualified positions, one becomes confused by which position a person should apply for. Furthermore, then there are the complaints that a person must endure why one has not worked for such a long time. Never mind the continuous discrimmination that is occuring, which is preventing a hiring or when persons assume that a person is too old towards being in a workplace. I would call them an atheist for disrespect towards mankind. As to the food problem, I understand nutrition programs called SNAP are improving quals and should provide basic food needs. Besides, the centers will give out additional assistance programs."
CHRIScommented onMike Risinger... "I have been out of work since summer of 2007 i.m going to be 51 next month. What blows me away is how the online apps will come right out and ask for your birthdate, i thougt that was a restricted question under federal employement laws, where is the enforcement?"
Eyeswideshutcommented onGeorge Dys... "New to this site. Just turned 53, thought reading comments would somehow sooth me, it hasn't. I keep being told, "you're not the only one." Does this make anyone feel better? I specialized in the mid 90's so when I got older I wouldn't have to be outside working on equipment in the snow. Um,...seemed like a good idea at the time. Try as I might, I've made no connections. I have found opposition when I attempt to do "walk-ins" at employers to see if they have work. I suspect too many people do this due to widespread unemployment. Honestly, I've never really had to shop for a job. Generally I always had a network to go on or similar. The networks are gone and the overall friendliness of employers has become confrontational! So I have relied on the internet, checking job-sites and sending resumés, so far a colossal waste of time. I seldom hear from anyone, the manners are gone. I am in the twilight zone. I can feel judgments about my sanity and my quality as a man. True, I admit my pride" Read the rest »
Peter Johansencommented onStephen Murphy... "The reason is there exists a lack of interest and various excuses. The claim is attitude is your problem."
Elizabeth Zimacommented onElizabeth Zima... "I GOT A JOB! I was hired on Sept. 19 by a medical association to be their staff writer covering medical-legal and policy issues. I am so happy I could bust!"
Johncommented onCheryl Cheney... "I think you are a credit to all of us gessers and I am proud of you. Keep your chin up because you have helped many people and that energy will come back to you. You are fantastic and will be fine."
Stand-up Galcommented onBig week for Over 50 and Out of Work... "The site's data charts compare timelines and stats for American workers aged 50+ to those for all workers aged 16+. The data would be more compelling still if you also broke out Americans 49-. Please consider including this third cohort in your bar graphs -- or using it in place of the 16+ data."
Pigbitin Madcommented onGeorge Dys... "I don't see how anything short of a quota system will get us back to work. The tax break cannot possibly outweight the costs of our health insurance and salary. If they save a thousand bucks, our health insurance premiums will far exceed that in a year. I really don't know why everyone does not pay the same premium for healthcare. It should be averaged out across the entire population. After all, the young people will get old at some point....and if they don't, too bad! If we cannot have a national health insurance, everyone should at least pay the same.
I too just turned 50 and I have a better chance of getting killed by a terrorist than every finding a full time job. I must have sent out approximately 600 resumes in the last 18 months and I have had 4 interviews. In at least three of them, the interviewers became noticably absent minded the minute I walked through the door, as if they were expecting someone younger. And I can pass for late 30's. I did not put any jobs o" Read the rest »
Pigbitin Madcommented onBig week for Over 50 and Out of Work... "Yes, it is age. I am your exact age and have been unemployed exactly as long. I have always gotten jobs before but now all of a sudden i am not qualified even when I apply for a job that is the exact duplicate of something i have already done."
Pigbitin Madcommented onBig week for Over 50 and Out of Work... "Yes, it is age. I am your exact age and have been unemployed exactly as long. I have always gotten jobs before but now all of a sudden i am not qualified even when I apply for a job that is the exact duplicate of something i have already done."
Mollycommented onHow 9/11 affected our interviewees... "These memories bring back the tears and the realization again how we are all the same in loss be it jobs, or the horror of a beloved life lost."
Jennifer Russellcommented onMike Boyd... "I'll ask- do you wash a sink of dishes/load-unload dishwasher- mow grass- run vacuum, any household task IS contributing even if it doesn't feel like it!!"
John M.commented onMike Risinger... "Hey Mike do you remember talking to your parents about the great depression? I was not interested in listening to the stories back then but I wish my old man was still alive so I could listen to them now. I hope you get the break you deserve. God Bless you Mike and thanks for sharing your story."
Peter Johansencommented onSheila Bliven... "Sheila, many are in the same situation and worse. Out of work since 08/2007. A short Census gig helped a little. Been through the disaster and the storm. Luckily, found some SNAP or nutrition to get by. The SNAP centers are more crowded than the career centers. There exists too many forces that are against us. Thus, take one day at a time, hope for the best, and get some rest or follow your cat's advice."
Patriciacommented onRick Barrett... "You are an inspiration to me, and I thank you for your honest and heartfelt thoughts. I believe you will make it, and do well. Never give up."
Ellen Turnercommented onKenny Moore, aka Kenny the Monk... "Very wise words, is this gentleman out of work? The only time I heard him talk about himself is dealing with the CEO of a corporation and this gentleman's illnesses...nothing about losing a job."
Janecommented onJoe Magnone... "Joe, you're my hero. You explained the situation of the millions of unemployed in a way that truly zeroes in on the reality of the situation. Thank you."
VERONICA GERMANcommented onKathleen Smith... "If the national black American unemployment rate is 16.7% then it is at least 50% among the baby boomers.
Unemployment among black citizens over 50 years of age is the worst in history and there has been no enforcement of age discrimination laws. I have associates who have lost their jobs since 2006 and not one of them has received a full time position of any kind regardless of credentials. Many people that I know between the ages of 50 and 70 regardless of personal heritage have mortgaged their home or borrowed money from other sources to improve their skills or to get another degree. We actually speak to each other before 6:00 AM because many of us get up in the wee hours seeking work and hoping for temporary placement reporting by 8:00 AM. Going into debt to further education has proven to be a high risk gamble resulting in further unemployment and mounting debt for black Americans. Many feel they are in too much debt now for start up costs for new business. Most unable to get fur" Read the rest »
Jennifer Russellcommented onMary Sironen... "I too have had big age discrimination in employment since I turned 50. Not cute enough anymore. Sickening. I had to look at plenty of not too cute people when I was a bartender."
Diane Tomlinsoncommented onJoe Magnone... "Joe, I am from Steubenville and now in Indiana. My did worked at Weirton Steel 39 years and retired in 1976, I thank you for your story. Life was good in the 50's and 60's when I was growing up. About all of the neighborhood men and my parents' friends worked in the mill and had good livings. I still remember all the graphite dust all over the windows giving everything that "orange glow" and everyone feeling it was ok because it was "pay dirt". It is a total shame what has happened to the steel industry in this country."
Deecommented onKevin Lincoln... "Amen brother. I'm in the same age group and know all too well a person can't go back to school, relocate in this housing market or get financing to start a service business."
Blake Southwoodcommented onStephen Murphy... "I agree about the age discrimination. I've applied to more than 6,000 jobs and I can't even get an interview and I've worked for billion dollar companies my whole life before I was laid off."
Kevin Morgancommented onPatrick O’Donnell... "Hi Patrick, I was terminated, but with generous severance, and found I had an aortic aneurysm all in one week. So, I got on with my life, including blogging to deal with fear of the stent (http://athletewithstent.com) and I am following the advice in 'The Four Hour Workweek,' by Tim Ferriss. You have a lot to offer, so work out what it is and bust a gut doing it, but it must be fun. -k @FitOldDog"
Stacey Monroecommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Video: Weirton, West Virginia... "I agree with Diane Magnone, We shouldn't be stereotyped with that style of music. But the fact is that the only way to make Weirton better is change. People don't like change. I come home every year to the same thing. I like the direction the Mayor is trying to go in. Let's make our town something again...."
Kansas Citycommented onDaddy's Story, contributed by Monica Hollen... "Your father is a lucky man to have such a caring daughter. And you are lucky to have him as a role model of resilience, positivity and strength. Here's wishing him -- and your entire family -- a healthy, prosperous future. Take care!"
george vacheressecommented onFrank Pope... "thats evryones story thoght mill last forever.my Dad had 40 somethin yrs in,he retired,and 1 month before he died he lost all his pension and benefits they had. i think his worrying and disappointment of all of that transpired caused his death.he always told me if yo took care of your job it would take care of you??????"
Jamescommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "When there's not enough jobs to go around and the government is still rewarding entrepreneurs with tax deductions, it only makes sense to look at business opportunities. The 40-year plan is broken. People who should be retiring are still working. The retirement age is increasing. Being in business offers so many opportunities besides income. There are more people on food stamps now than ever before. "Today SNAP released the most recent food stamp numbers. Not surprisingly, we just saw another all time high 44.2 million poverty-level Americans relying on government funding for day to day sustenance." Even people who are able to find work have a difficult time making ends meet. A full time or part time business is a great way to make additional money, save money on taxes, and regain control over your life. Get out there and make it happen!"
Peter Johansencommented onBarbara Dixon... "Instead of being retired, call the name in transition. Hence, we are always in transition and retired refers to extinction as in "Logan's Run." In any event, good luck."
Sandy H. Millercommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "Hello: Anyone have any new business ideas? I have time, lots of energy and experience in researching, developing, launching and running a national business doing sales of 1-7 million per year gross reveune. We need to share our strength, hope and limited funds to get something going! Are there any "like minded" people out there?? I would love to hear from you. Come on folks we are NOT getting any younger!! I hope some of you will contact me. Best regards, SHM"
Peter Johansencommented onLaurie McCann... "I filed a number of cases of discrimmination with the EEOC. One case particular was the employer, who refused to show up for an interview after completing an application and setting a time frame. On the EEOC compalint, I used age as a more obvious selection. Besides, I gave the employer an opportunity to schedule another interview, where I could bring in my qualifications. Mind you this position did not pay very well. In any event, after an EEOC review of the documents, EEOC ruled that employers can be as arrogant as possible. I responded by stating, "I presumed age however there are other possibilities such as race or nationality." In other words, the employer may be biased were one was born or the color of skin."
Vickicommented onProfessor Andrew Sum, Director of the Center for Labor Market Studies at Northeastern University... "The documentary was great. It is terrible with happened to Weirton Steel. My whole family worked there at one time or another. I didn't get in so I am still working in the field I chose. WSX strated going down years ago - it wasn't all the goverment (but our govt. including the state officials didn't help us much. My father retired when the employees bought it out - on a pension that was terrible for how many years he worked there. Then they hired all these executives - or what ever you want to call them, gave them huge salaries = more than the president of the United States, they would stay awhile and then they would get huge packages that the mill would pay to then for how ever many years was agreed on. The poor working man in the mill was the ones that got screwed and lost their pensions and jobs -- at young ages (50 or above) and had to go into different fields and collect unemployment for how ever long they could get it and try to find new jobs to support their families and t" Read the rest »
Peter Johansencommented onAlbert Yasbick... "Dave, you are not alone. There exists millions in similar situation. Furthermore, when discussion age discrimmination with an attorney, age discrimminations falls on deaf ears."
Ellen Turnercommented onMichael McClatchey... "Michael is doing better than most of us. He can collect early SS. I cannot afford health insurance, as a single woman of 63..it would cost me $250/mth with a 5k deductible. My skillselt has been outsourced to foriegn soils. I live in Florida, where there isn't any jobs in my field. Also, do not forget...companies do not hire older Americans, mainly because of the health insurance rates."
Kevincommented onJerome Williams... "Why am i seeing alot of IT people on these videos? I thought information technology was one of the jobs of the 21st century Bush was talking about...What BS....Had alot of manufacturing people get retrained in IT as they advised and they got thrown under the bus again."
Pigbitin Madcommented onSteve Borton... "No Mr. Bond, they expect us to die [they being our Tea Bag controlled government] . That way, we will not reach 62 and the rich can confiscate our social security. You don't think they really want to let us have that money to live in a hut in Uganda do you?"
TCcommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "The current situation is really starting to wear me out. I don't even have enough hope left to look for a job anymore. I've been unemployed since 3/31/10, the longest time that I've gone without some type of job since high school. If I get the full extension of 99 weeks, that's it and that's all. No more income. I live in IL and the state has just passed a resolution that will only allow people who become unemployed to obtain a maximum of 26 weeks in benefits. I believe that there is a time coming and not too far off, when we will have riots in the streets, like Greece and London. The so-called deal that Congress came up with before they trotted out to enjoy their American taxes paid 5 weeks vacation, didn't even mention the 99'ers or for that matter, unemployment at all, with the exception of giving tax credits to companies that hire Veterans. Great, except companies that are experiencing record earnings are laying current employees off to increase their earnings spread. I really don" Read the rest »
Jamescommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Intro... "You've done a thorough job of documenting the current situation. It's important for people to understand the reality in order to explore their viable options. It's time we all wake up and realize things have changed. Change requires new approaches."
Richard Coxcommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Intro... "The only way to lower taxes in reality - PROPOSED: Economic regulative legislation to ease domestic job issues, reduce the deficit and the Social Security shortfall (Pro Jobs Legislation)...
In response to solicitations for revenue that generates jobs (e.g. Face the Nation on CBS) here is another source of revenue other than direct taxation we need to use which no one seems to want to talk about, described at http://www.congress.org/soapbox/alert/51246501 and at http://www.rncox.newsvine.com.
I've communicated my ideas about this already, re shipping our jobs overseas being at the root of many of our deficit problems. The only way to lower taxes in reality is to increase the overall tax base. GE's recent action reported on CNN (www.cnn.com/caffertyfile), moving their X-Ray business to China, is just another instance of the reason for this proposal.
Richard N. Cox
105 Front Street
Weirton, WV 26062-4220
eMail: rncox@access995.com (preferred met" Read the rest »
Richard Coxcommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Intro... "Ms. Standardi,
Tell them we are still trying to get new things in Weirton, such as the plasma gasification tech I'd proposed back in 2003, point them to my web pages. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Recycling-and-Power-Facilities-RPFs/347616143827, and http://www.rncox.newsvine.com.
Weirton has all of the things that made a mill work here, ready access to road, river and rail for moving raw materials in and finished products out, and would be a great place for a refinery making methanol, ethanol and biodiesel out of coal, municipal and industrial waste streams, regardless of the specific technology used.
Thank You,
Richard N. Cox
105 Front Street
Weirton, WV 26062-4220
eMail: rncox@access995.com (preferred method of contact)
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/11/75/829 <= my professional profile
Independent member, WV Senator Manchin's Project Weirton task group (http://www.wtov9.com/news/5484507/detail.html)
Web page: http://www.facebook.com/p" Read the rest »
Suecommented onOlder Workers: No Longer Needed?... "Thanks for your support, Jim. Good to hear from you! Congratulations on your success in helping people who are 50+ find jobs."
Jim Wall "The Career Doctor"commented onOlder Workers: No Longer Needed?... "Kudos to the producers … This is a great documentation and when they came to Southwest Florida we were not sure what to expect. The stories here are real-life and compelling. Some good news out of SWFL is many of the individual’s features in the documentation have found job. To all, keep plugging away and all the best!"
Tony Estradacommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "I guess a big riot in the streets of all USA is what we need in order to tell the WH and the Congress that, we the 99ers are still us citizen,that we need to support our families and need to pat our debts too,no only the rich and millionaires have the right to live comfortable.As a person in my 61 I don't think that I have any chance to get a job,is sad to became a homeless with no source of money and waiting for our government to do something to help us to survive.Foreing countries and banks have more luck of to be help by USA than their own people.My last check from UI was in March 2010 and since then I don't have any source of income, I was lloking for jobs all over USA and in a foreing country,with no results.So America need to wake up to this situation,I think that we are too comfortable with what is happens in the nation right now,we need to act,no just seating in front of the tv and watch what is happens here we our economy.They try to cut the Social Security wich is the only re" Read the rest »
Jeffrey Koconiscommented onOne unemployed older American's miserable mortgage refinance saga... "I appreciate your thoughtful comments, I have found harboring ill-will doesn't suit me, or help me pursue my future, which I now embrace with the excitement of a child again. My best to all who have suffered from this all too real, and continuing depression, I choose to be thankful for what I have, and can still be, I hope you can too. There's still so much to do, and the time is short."
beth zagoriacommented onRobert King... "My words exactly......but let's try to see this as an opportunity and never, ever give up.....Good luck my friend"
Sandy H. Millercommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "What are WE all going to do? Will it come to riots in the streets? If your head is not up your ass you must be quite worried and freaked out like I am... There is simply NO answer. If the WH doesn't have one who does? Sick of it but have no where to go! Pissed in LA ~ Any ideas?"
Diana Magnonecommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Video: Weirton, West Virginia... "I really appreciate doing this documentary, and my brother is featured. But. What's up with the banjo-playing introduction? Every time someone does a documentary about WV (Coal mines, the Wild Wonderful Whites, the Point Pleasant bridge collapse) it's always got that stupid banjo intro! how often have any of us really listened to people sitting on their porches pickin banjos in Weirton? I absolutely hate the stereotyping."
Charlescommented onExpert advice on how to become an older enterpreneur... "Hello Mr. Williams,
Appreciated the post about how to become an older entreprenuer. Have you thought about 'legitimate' networking opportunities? Not the constant array of scam's that people are running these days, but 'legitimate' companies like Mary Kay, and others that have been successful for many, many years. The start up cost and risks are a lot less than risking ones' savings with franchises and the like and the joy of helping others instead of just yourself is a blessing as well. Thanks, keep up the good work. Charles"
K. Rostadcommented onOne unemployed older American's miserable mortgage refinance saga... "Jeffrey, I am very sorry to read of the problems you are facing. I also checked out about refinancing in 2005, when my husband's unemployment was nearly gone and was told that we had to have a certain level of income to refinance even with good credit history. My substitute teaching pay wasn't enough to qualify for a refinance without my husband's former income. After some research, I found that the banks can't loan to people with certain levels of earnings to credit ratios or the banks eventually go under themselves. They are audited and might become one of the many banks that get listed each Friday as closed due to inadequate debt to asset ratios. I also felt betrayed by the bank to which we had been so faithful in making payments. We then sold our home and built smaller in a less expensive area doing ALL the work ourselves using discounted building supplies. One of our children and family are building a mini home on a trailer bed paying cash for all parts to avoid having a mo" Read the rest »
Ann @ Creative Boomercommented onExpert advice on how to become an older enterpreneur... "As someone who (*knock on wood*) is still working in a corporate job, I'm feeling the insecurity of it. I'm in the beginning stages of starting an online business. And your points of what you need to think about are right on target."
Suecommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Video: Weirton, West Virginia... "Thank you, JKL, for your comment. Weirton's story is complex and evolving, and it's good to read about the start of its rebirth, which we hope to experience for ourselves next week. When we make our full-length documentary, it will be about the United States, not just Weirton, and it will also include the positive outcomes that some older jobseekers have been able to create for themselves. Stay tuned!"
JKLcommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Video: Weirton, West Virginia... "Look around, everything is made in China/Korea/India and on and on, except our own USA. All the outsourcing/call centers are going abroad. Why does it come as a surprise that our millions are unemployed. What do we do? I asked a public official " Why are all the jobs going abroad?" His answer was " Simple, labor is cheaper there " I answered " If we could, we would outsource you also, we can get 10 for the price of one we support here. How would you like that ". There was silence. Many countries impose tarrifs on foreign good to the tune of 100 to 300 percent. They insist that to be able to do business with them, manufacturing has to be done there. How can we compete? By playing the same game. The companies would rather see their next quarter look good as the country goes down the tube. It seems that each company is working in vacuum, not realizing that one by one all manufacturing will go abroad, and there will be no buyers left here. China is too happy to lend us money because even" Read the rest »
Suecommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Video: Weirton, West Virginia... "Thank you, Joni. We're headed back to Weirton next week to do more shooting for a full-length documentary. Weirton is a special place with fascinating people. We're eager to get back there."
Joni Liebelcommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Video: Weirton, West Virginia... "Weirton is 30 min. from where I grew up. Getting a job in a steel mill was a great career path for my father's generation & also for my generation. My father lost his steel mill job forever when he was 60 years old (late 1970's). Another generation in this area tells the same story.. which isn't any different from manufacturing workers in any other part of the US. Very well done documentary in the making. I look forward to your future videos. Blessings, Joni"
HealthyStealthycommented onMike Risinger... "Please don't say your wife and children don't love you... I am sure at least your kids love you. I feel your pain. I will be 51 in a few weeks and I have been out of work since 2009. I have been on dozens and dozens of interviews but no one will hire me! I was clearly suited for many of the positions I applied for. I guess I am experiencing age discrimination. And now I don't I don't know where to go or what to do. Do I retrain? I am not sure. Good luck to you. I wish you the best."
larrycommented onOlder Workers: No Longer Needed?... "I have just turned 50 and have been unemployed since 2009. I have been on at least 30 interviews. I have no income coming in which gets old fast. I am very disappointed."
B-radcommented onOlder Workers: No Longer Needed?... "Yeah...this is so unfair. My friend in this boat didn't even want to live anymore when suppossed to be happy in retirement. Lucky for him he found something...."
Tony Estradacommented onOlder Workers: No Longer Needed?... "Now I'm just about to get retired,in April 2012 is when I have to apply,cuz my B.D. is in July and I will be 62.Those will be the longest 10 months that I have to wait in my life.Other thing is that with my money I can't live in USA,so I will have to moved to Colombia or Peru where the money worth and I can live with decense and happiness."
Tony Estradacommented onOlder Workers: No Longer Needed?... "Yes is a disgrace that a person on his 50's loose his job,got sick and is turned down every time I applied for a job.Now I'm 61 lost my job in 2008 as a Lowe's employee due to a cancer,now I'm doing ok, but I can't find a job cuz of my age and my health history.I tried to get my retirement,but the person in SS office told me,you are too young to retire but too old to get a job,wich I guess she was right.I became a 99er in March 2010 and since then I don't have any income,so I became a homeless,lost my car, apartment and my friends,noy even your family wants to take you if you don't have at least one source of income.I never realize that I will be on my 60's without any job,I always thought that when I retired it will be with dignity,but now I feel like a piece of shit,a person that nobody wants to have around cuz you will be a problem for them....this is my sad reality."
Susan Hawkinscommented onOne unemployed older American's miserable mortgage refinance saga... "I sympathize w/ you. I am in the same predicament never been unemployed in my life I am 59 and having difficulty procuring a new job. I truly believe it is age discrimination! I am at a loss as to my situation. BOA lost my refinance paperwork three different times charged me penalties for being late with my mortgage, added the penalties totalling $20,000.00 to my mortgage. I am totally disgusted w/ them."
Pigbitin Madcommented onUnderemployment: A no-win struggle for older workers... "What I find to be especially infuriating is that I know more about office software than most 20 year olds. Yet most companies will only hire recent grads. The government has got to have a policy of only hiring over 50. They are the only people who will do it as the scumbugs in private industry won't. We're lucky if they even do any hiring in this country. They should be thrown out of the country if they outsuorce....and anything coming in should be taxed 500% to make sure that no one can afford to buy it."
Alicia Carrcommented onMarie Spalding... "Like Marie, I looked after two ill parents for about a decade, and now that I've been looking actively for work for the last three years....the few jobs that are out there, always seem to go to someone else. At present, I'm at or near the top of the list for 3 municipal jobs, but I keep getting told that there's no funding for the jobs. In the next two weeks, I plan to take 2 more tests, hoping for the best. I admit that I have to borrow from a relative, just to get by. Sadly, no one seems to know or care, that looking after sick family members, is no picnic in the park. I wish you the best of luck in your job search, Marie; hoping your dream job is yours VERY soon."
Lane Zanecommented onUnderemployment: A no-win struggle for older workers... "I work as a volunteer for AARP and the number 1 reason older workers say they have not been able to find a job...age discrimination. 1 in 5 who are unemployed are over 50. I know I've experienced this myself and it is a huge problem. Also a lot of people have medical problems and this is a factor as well. I know people who take part time jobs (if they can even find those) if they can't find full time work. 1 in 7 families are now on food stamps."
businesscommented onOver 50 Testifying before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions... "........At a time when weve got some of the greatest income disparity in the United States since the Gilded Age Villager David Brooks thinks were not going to be able to solve the problem with our deficit unless seniors and the middle class are ready for some shared sacrifice. Which in Villager speak means fixing those problems on the hides of those who can afford it least while the rich keep their tax breaks..Brooks does agree that we need to raise taxes on the rich to some degree but of course qualifies that with the typical talking point that no matter how high their taxes were raised it would not fix the deficit problem..And like every other Republican out there he pretends our Congress would ever actually vote to close the tax loopholes for the rich and not just end up sticking it to the middle class instead in the name of fiscal responsibility while their big money donors keep their deductions in place..I would love to see David Brooks have to spend a few days in some senior citi" Read the rest »
business reviewcommented onOver 50 Testifying before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions... "During the past generation the American middle-class family that once could count on hard work and fair play to keep itself financially secure has been transformed by economic risk and new realities. Rocked by rising prices for essentials as mens wages remained flat both Dad and Mom have entered the workforcea strategy that has left them working harder just to try to break even. Even with two paychecks family finances are stretched so tightly that a very small misstep can leave them in crisis."
Sandy H. Millercommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "Hi Kelly:
Thanks for your note. Please tell me more ~ contact information, website/URL, corporate name, company history and who the executive officers are so I can investigate and determine IF it is something I would be interested in and a venture that I could share my experience with and make a positive impact. Please NO MLMs (Multi-level Marketing) business concepts or PONZI deals!! Thanks -"
Richard Tanenbaumcommented onOver 50 will testify before the Senate HELP committee ... "One solution for out of work homeowners is to lower the age of eligibility for "reverse" mortgages to 50 or 55. Then older folks could tap into their homes equity to pay off the existing mortgage, relieve the burden of ever making a mortgage payment (unless they refi in the future), and possibly give them some cash in hand each month. Since the official name is "home equity conversion mortgage", you need some equity to convert to present money. However, if a home is underwater, or doesn't qualify for an amount sufficient to pay off present financing, then the bank either has to take a "short refinance", somewhat similar to a short sale, or the bankers need to create an equity sharing instrument so that what the bank can't get now, they can get when the house is sold or at upon some agreed event. I'm sure smart bankers can figure out an instrument that would work. Another huge game changer would be for FNMA to allow short refi's. Currently FNMA will not accept reductions in princi" Read the rest »
Kellycommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "Sandy,
I am sorry to hear about your situation. I have marketing and promotion business marketing a unique service and am looking for someone to come on board to help me. This is service helps people across the US and Canada and is provided by a NYSE change company. Please let me know if this might interest you."
Marycommented onMike Risinger... "Sorry Mike, I've been out of work for 3 years now, my skills are not outdated! I'm just 55 years old. God Bless you and your family, unfortunately in todays world I think kids who want to go to college need to work for it and not depend on the parents. Not being mean just reality."
Marycommented onThe Great Recession Continues for Unemployed Boomers... "Ok, so you tracked these stories and trackd their success or not successes...ummm...what good is it, try being over 50 and out of work for 3 years! Yes there is a BIG problem out there for "mature" workers and all of us just talk about it, lets fight, lets walk right up to the white house and ask WHY isn't someone doing something about this crap??? They say we cost them more, how? Seems to me it would be less cost in training! They say they would have to pay us more, well let us make that decision, not you! Sick of this whole thing, someone made the comment we should make the "Over 50 Party". I'm game!!"
MaryKay Coynecommented onOver 50 will testify before the Senate HELP committee ... "Thank you so much for doing this. People do not realize this is happening everywhere. Workers over 50 had good jobs that they did well prior to 2008. Why would they not be responsible, valuable employees now? They would be, they just can't afford to work part time for 7.50 an hour unless they are subsidized by the Government. We want to be free of all benefits and return to a "reasonably paid" full time position, working hard and making enough to live on for our families without needing a helping hand from State Government."
Richard Allencommented onOver 50 will testify before the Senate HELP committee ... "My plan for getting America back to work:
#1 Make being an :intern: subject to Equal Opportunity and age
discrimination laws.
No Kidding why should someone older be told they are OVERQUALIFIED?
That is just mean and nasty to someone willing to work for little or
no pay to keep a recent job in their field at the top of their resume.
#2 Eliminate all extended unemployment after 26 weeks UNLESS you are
in an Intern job or in job training. Again if some employer tells
me I am TOO OLD to be an intern well the UI office can make it hard
for them to do business.
#3 Quit being NASTY and demanding welfare recipients find
work.........again no kidding From personal experience the NYC back
to work programs are an incredible waste of taxpayers money....Rude
nasty very little if any help. It is a Boondoggle and the only people
who they serve are Goodwill Arbor Fegs employees by getting paid every
two weeks.
What to do to sound tough on getting government " Read the rest »
Steve Tilsoncommented onOver 50 will testify before the Senate HELP committee ... "They don't care. If they cared they could make it a capital crime for any CEO's company to discriminate on age. But they don't care at all. If the people in congress cared they would long ago have made it a crime to discriminate. But the health insurance companies rule the day. Money rules all."
sybillecommented onBob Delpizzo... "Unfortunately (or fortunately), I am a 99er. Not by choice, mind you. Lay off's occurred and our center being shut down. Although I consider myself fortunate since I was 62 when this happened. I did not want to retire and would have liked to have worked until 66. I managed a medical records department, working as a transcriptionist as well as creating medical charts. Multi-tasking to the max. Do I think I will get another job. Deep down - no. But still trying. No doubt to the ire of the 2011 grads, both high school and college. Oh well...I may be a "baby boomer" but in my heart I know I bring experience and loyalty to any employment area."
Deborahcommented onDeborah Salim... "Thank you Tim for those kind words. They were very encouraging to my spirit. I have learned to be content in whatever state I find myself (according to the Bible). How I manage to keep control of my situation is to trust and depend upon God for He promised to supply all of my needs and He has thus far. We often worry about things we have no control over and make our situation worse when our health fail due to all of the stress. I am learning how to stress less and trust more in the Almighty God who is able to keep me (us) from falling and present us faultless before His throne with exceeding joy. Put your trust in God and obey His Word and everything will work together for your good because He loves you. Take care!"
mike rcommented onCheryl Cheney... "This lady has it going. How she can remain uber-positive in the face of this current economic climate is a testimony to her inner strength. Cheryl, you will land on your feet. Of that I am certain!"
P. Edward Murraycommented onBob Delpizzo... "Transition may be permanent but time waits for no man or woman. What many of us fear is time because we are so close to that "magic" retirement age. Sorry but I'm not willing to "have to" change jobs...whenever I get hired...several times before 65. Retirement for me, at the moment, is a 4 letter word because I will never have...unless I win the lottery...enough money to retire:( And I have a strong feeling that quite a number of folks are in the same boat!"
P. Edward Murraycommented onBob Delpizzo... "Yes, we are or rather were, defined by our vocations and achievement along the lines of excellence. We grew up with that sense of "Norman Rockwell American Values" with guidance that if we study hard, go to college and graduate we then would be rewarded with being able to find a good job. All of these things have apparently changed now and are "so yesterday". The question remains as to what they are changed too?"
Shallie Bey (Smarter Small Business Blog)commented onDavid Mathison... "This was a very inspiring post. I think that the concept of empowering people to share their gifts is important. In my own work, I attempt to encourage people to start businesses with their skills. However, not everyone wants to go through the effort to start a business, they just want to share. This short post provides great thoughts on how to do that. It also points us to what sounds like a book that will have many more valuable insights."
Dianecommented onDeborah Shane... "That is an interesting interview, although it made me a bit uncomfortable to hear her make comments about baby boomers "not knowing how to download a file". As a baby boomer with great computer skills, I'd rather not have this type of mythology (baby boomers don't know which end of the computer to use) promulgated. There's enough negative generalizations out there already."
P. Edward Murraycommented onOver 50 and Out of Work reaches out to governors, senators and representatives... "I remember Senator Inouye from The Watergate Hearings.
We called him "Senator "Ain't no way" because he wasn't going to stand for the baloney!
I think being "Middle aged" is just a state of mine or a phrase. Many of my buddies from high school and college who are my age are talking about being older Americans.
We reach a "certain" point in time,different for each individual where our bodies start to differe with our brains.
Our minds are still 25 ish and then all of a sudden we aren't anymore as those aches and pains start to appear:)"
Helen Shultz-Kamadulskicommented onOver 50 and Out of Work reaches out to governors, senators and representatives... "No surprise to me that those are the extent of the responses you've gotten. I've been contacting my Senators and Reps and attempting, unsuccessfully, to contact Senators and Reps in other states regarding the unemployment situation(for all ages), the lack of consequences for the crooked banks, and on a variety of other topics all pertinent to our decimated economy. I, and many other unemployed like me, have attempted to make our voices heard through emails, phone calls, twitters....They really don't seem to be listening and, unfortunately, the feeling a lot of us are getting is that we, the unemployed(especially the unemployed in their 40s and 50s and older) are expendable. We are simply collateral damage. It's absolutely shameful how willing those in power are to ignore this huge and growing bigger daily, problem."
John Wellscommented onOver 50 and Out of Work reaches out to governors, senators and representatives... "The employment discrimination in the country is at an all time high and needs to be fixed period. We need to live just like everyone else, and it's very hard to do when salaries are going down 20K to 30K or more and prices are going through the roof. Our water fees are going up 7.5% in Queens, NY - (NOT SALARIES)...!!!!!...What's wrong with this picture??????"
Suecommented onOver 50 and Out of Work reaches out to governors, senators and representatives... "Great ideas, Diane!
Here is the description that we pasted in to the contact forms:
For the past year, we have been traveling across the United States conducting video interviews with Americans who are Over 50 and Out of Work at http://www.overfiftyandoutofwork.com/
We would invite you to add your Comments to our multimedia documentary project.
In the Great Recession, older Americans are unemployed at record rates and for longer periods of time than ever before. Over the past 10 years, many boomers have also seen the value of their homes and savings decline precipitously, and they have less time than younger workers to recoup their losses and regain financial equilibrium. Moreover, they face a daunting uphill battle against age discrimination and a bias directed against the unemployed when they seek new jobs.
Please take a look at the stories we have documented – together, they forge a remarkable American geographic and socioeconomic mosaic. We currently have 75 i" Read the rest »
Dianecommented onOver 50 and Out of Work reaches out to governors, senators and representatives... "Do you have a "template" that you used to contact the people, such as a form letter, that others could use? Also, I am wondering is there is a way to have a database of all the pertinent people in one place that others could use. For instance, if I found all the Pennsylvania representatives, I could put their emails or websites in a database, and other people could find it. And I want to say to the honorable Mr. Inouye, Dude, I'm not elderly!"
Dianecommented onOlder Entrepreneurs: Olive Lynch... "What a wonderful idea! I'm super-impressed. Best of luck to you. (BTW, I studied to be an opera singer, and then went on to work in a bank for a couple of decades.)"
MKcommented onElizabeth Zima... "Dear Over-50 people,
What is wrong is that the US lacks any industrial policy worth a damn. What is also wrong is that we have banksters running and ruining everything. I have covered a few of the policies that have brought us to this point. Please do not think that because I mention Obama, that I am leaving out bad policies made by Bush and Clinton both. There have been bad decisions made about the economy since the 1970s. In the interest of brevity, I am only covering the last 30 years or so.
What is really sad about the current situation is that quietly, behind the scenes, there are a lot of cheerleaders for 'THE FREE MARKET" who are gently recommending Keynesian economics again. Their problem is how to push that without admitting that they took this country on an adventure through "discredited economics 101" for the third or fourth time. That's right. We tried these same stupid policies in the past and they resulted in Depressions every time. How do I know this? I " Read the rest »
Angela Simoescommented onMike Risinger... "Mike, Autodesk has a program for unemployed designers and architects - the Autodesk Assistance Program. Go to this website: www.autodesk.com/assistanceprogram, sign up and you can start downloading software for free. It will get you a 3-year student license that you can use to brush up on your 3D skills. The site also includes a ton of videos and tutorials to help get you started. I hope this helps. We did a survey of the program participants last year, and 75% of them said that when they go for job interviews, technology proficiency is the second most important thing employers are looking for, second only to years of experience. Best of luck to you, and please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or need anything else.
Best,
Angela"
spinottercommented onMike Risinger... "I would venture to guess that Mike never expected, when he volunteered for this video, to become the headline story on the Huffington Post! Mike, if you're reading these comments, I would like to say how much I admire you for being human and showing us how unemployment has affected your life and that of your family. If you read some of the negative comments on HuffPo, just remember that for every heartless person who sits at his/her computer taking potshots at the world, there are many of us who are just like you - who are feeling the same doubts and pain you are. We never expected to be treated like the line items on a profit or loss statement. Something is very wrong with our country when so many millions of people have worked their whole lives and raised families only to encounter the suffering and despair of joblessness so close to the time when they might have expected to continue working in a career spanning several decades, to see their children able to attend college, and t" Read the rest »
Mo Jcommented onMike Risinger... "Someone on Huffington Post posted this message and I thought it might help...
Posted by
Angela Simoes
This post is specifically for Mike Risinger if anyone knows how to reach him. The Autodesk Assistance Program provides free software to designers and architects who are out of work. This is a great way for him to learn the 3D CAD skills that the companies are looking for and make himself attractive to employers again. Just go to this website and sign up: www.autodesk.com/assistanceprogram. Hope this helps.
I hope this helps too, over 40 here and out of work myself... Mo"
Muffycommented onMichael McClatchey... "If I were this person, I would start helping people out with their computers.
I continually have problems with my computer; when I have bigger issues, I would love to have someone to call that's not going to charge me through the nose."
Albert H. Parkercommented onDr. Carl Van Horn... "I am in an architecture-related profession in the Cleveland area. I am told that our unemployment is around 60%, and is not likely to recover for at least ten years or longer. I am 63 years and was forced to start Social Securiity to pay mortgage. Live-in girlfriend works one full-time and one part-time jobs, and has been unsympathetic that I can not just go out and find another job, although I have tried. This has been devastating in our lives, and I see no way to improve the situation. Your discussion confirms the situation that so many of us find ourselves in after lifetimes of productivity (I starting working when I was 12)."
Susan Glovercommented onElizabeth Zima... "My boyfriend and I are 99ers and homeless. We were laid off in August 2008. We are living in our car. Family has turned its back on us and friends help when they can. I'm physically, mentality and emotionally exhausted! Don't know how much longer we can sleep in our car."
Dave Baumgardnercommented onAlbert Yasbick... "I have been unemployed since June 2009. I had a job at a call center for AT&T and after being there for a year I received a 9 cent an hour raise. Two weeks later I was fired! Unbelieveable, I thought maybe this would be my final job until Social Security kicked in. Boy was I wrong. Now I am looking at my last month of unemployment benefits (yes, the place where I worked did not even fight my claim!) I have applied everywhere online and here in town. The veteran's rep. cannot even give me a decent lead on a job in this town. My wife and I have been homeless before and believe me we do NOT want to go back to that terrible situation! No one can even imagine what that is like unless they have been themselves. I am seeing a counselor at the Veteran's Outpatient clinic for depression and stress. Drugs cannot help me get a job and they seem to be useless as I have been on them so long. We can spend tons of money to help Libya, Afghanistan and every other country but not to help people who" Read the rest »
Lorraine Campmancommented onOlder Entrepreneurs: Lorraine Campman... "If you’re an adult who dreams of playing the piano, organ or keyboard, Music Oasis gives you the chance to:
• Master familiar songs in weeks instead of months.
• Learn simple building blocks for achieving fast results.
• Discover easy-to-read music.
• Unlock your creative spirit.
Discover a new way to learn, and insights from 30 years of piano-teaching experience.
I am currently offering my daytime program through a local park and recreation department, senior centers and retirement communities. It’s more than piano lessons, because the focus is on the recreational side of music. We sing “oldies”, learn the story behind the songs, then play them on the piano. We learn simple techniques to improvise on piano joined by ethnic and percussion instruments. We socialize and have fun learning a new skill or brushing up on an old one, playing the piano!
88 Keys to Musical Fun!!™
Contact us at musicoasis@hotmail.com"
K. Rostadcommented onSheila Cooper... "Dear Sheila, I will pray for you and your family to recover from these job losses. You seem to have a dear spirit and a lovely personality. If you lived near me, I'd invite you over for a cup of tea. It shocks me that so many nice, hardworking people are suffering from job loss right now. My husband and I have been through a corporate down-sizing and understand what you are going through. Moving to a smaller home in the country helped us cut down on our costs. Many unexpected blessings have come our way in the 8 years since my husband was laid off including two part time jobs for me that each lasted two years. I hope good things like that will happen for you also. I also hope you have help with your health insurance somehow. God bless you. - K. Rostad"
Tim Carmellcommented onDeborah Salim... "I wish to say how touched I was by Deborah's interview. There is a woman who sees life clearly and isn't making any excuses, who's reinventing herself and at the same time being foreclosed on. If Deborah can't have some job security after fifteen years in the same job, who can? We are destroying the lives of so many people and sometimes I wonder if it is a plan to impoverish us all and have a nation of peasants, or if it's simply bad judgement on the part of our government and corporations. It certainly isn't Deborah's fault - you can see that the minute she begins speaking. If Deborah reads this, I want to tell you that I love the person you are and wish you the very VERY best in your search for a job."
K. Rostadcommented onElizabeth Zima... "I am so sorry for what you are going through. There can be nothing as frustrating as being downsized. The stress of not having money coming in can be unbelievable. We watched 20,000 other people lose their jobs at the same company over a 20 year period before my husband was laid off. The company first changed health insurance, then cut back vacation length and carry over into the next year. Then it canceled standard retirement plans and went to 401K's. Meanwhile it hired temporaries to maximize profits. Following that, my husband was told by his new boss that two people coming out of college could be hired for what he was earning. He had 25 years of continuous education totaling more than 100 classes in his field, in addition to his two degrees. We were later told that the same boss was wondering where the computer programmer went. I guess because it wasn't in the job title, the boss didn't know that my husband did that for them on the side, in addition to understanding how to " Read the rest »
Pat S.commented onThree more video interviews added -- we have over 70 stories online... "This is a great service, thank you. How can we find out more about your organization? Is it a nonprofit? Is it also called Over Fifty and Out of Work, or something else? Where is it located? How is it funded? Etc.
Also, is there any way to reach you via ordinary email, or by a simpler contact form. I would like to contact you privately (i.e., not in a public comment or on your FB page) for reasons other than putting my story on your site, but the only contact option on the site is the contact form for submitting a personal story.
thanks,
Pat"
linda turnercommented onJoel Nitzberg... "Hi,
You have latched on to a real idea, ie "co-operative housing. I am turning 63 the end of the month, a boomer, and am part of the trail blazering generation who lived in "communes", although I never did so myself. I have been facinated by the idea, ala "kibbutzes".
For those who need it, I believe "pooling resources" , ie housing and transportation for our generation is a coming necessity. Many of us do not have children, or have children who live all over the world. Bartering, co-ops, etc is the wave of the future, I believe, but do something before you have no assets left to do it with.
Good luck to you and yours,"
linda turnercommented onKen Wadland... "Hi,
I am systematically reading through everyone's story, but yours strikes me as outstanding.
You are a "problem" solver in that you seem to be able to access any situation and proceed from there, especially in your personal life.
I do have one suggestion, which I also give to my husband, who is 64 and still working, thank God........shave the grey part of your beard. Unless you want to work with the Amish, you would appear younger without it. Your thinking process is that of a much younger person, and I feel you handicap yourself by keeping the grey part.
Please take this critique in the spirit with which it is given.....and Good Luck !
This "advice" is given to you with the best of wishes, and hopes for your future. You will be an asset to anyone who employs you."
Denise Krivitskycommented onLaurie McCann... "I filed a lawsuit against Costco Wholesale and 2 pharmacists, who I felt discriminated against me because of age, disability. When I took it to upper management, the retaliation and harrassment was horrendous.
Last week, Costco was fond not guilty in a 3 week long trial. I felt I had the best lawyers and I know they gave it there all. Jurors voiced their frustration with the juror instructions when we spoke after the trial.
While I am devastated, I want to continue to be an advocate for us baby boomers ( I'm 57), who I know are experiencing this everyday, and it's only going to get worse.
Do you have any ideas or suggestions, on on to carry forward with my crusade to make a guilty verdict on age discrimination more attainable? Or how I could work with people who are going through this sad, thoughtless plight.
I was just looking through internet and found you. Perhaps there was a reason...:)
Denise Krivitsky"
Steve Smithcommented onTry something new to find a job in 2011... "That is tough Harvey. Why do you think that you haven't even been called for one interview? Is the competition in your work field especially fierce? Looking at your profile on LinkedIn, I am wondering which kinds of jobs you are looking for (applied for)? If you list some of them, maybe someone here might see one of them listed in their area or perhaps in a job resource you do not know about, and can relay that information to you."
Steve Smithcommented onSheila Bliven... "Hi Michael. If you could post a bit about more about your situation, there might be someone here who might have some possibilities for you. Your work background, state and perhaps city you live in, any limiting issues (health, etc.) that might prevent you from doing certain jobs, and whether you would be willing (and able) to move to a new location for a job, are some of the things you might post."
Suecommented onSheila Bliven... "Michael, thank you for visiting our site and sharing your experience. I hope that you are going to a job support group, so that you do not feel alone. If there is anything we can do -- help you locate a group or pass on job search links that others are using, let us know. Please take a look at the posts in our general comments section -- we have many caring site visitors and some of their advice and tips may be useful to you."
Michael Butlercommented onSheila Bliven... "Born in 1955, I started working when I was in high school. I always believed that no matter what happened, there would always be a job of some kind for me just in case anything fell through. Now here I am, 55 years old, unemployed, a 99er, and there is absolutely nothing out there to be found. I'm fighting desperation, depression, guilt, and trying to keep a positive outlook. But this is really, really hard."
Harvey Justmanncommented onTry something new to find a job in 2011... "J.T.,
I'm not sure if this comment goes to you directly. I wanted to comment on the "Try something new to find a job in 2011" post on the 'Over 50 and out of work" blog.
As I was reading, I found the statistics unbelievable, at least based on my own search difficulties and me being 'over 50 and out of work'. If I had known of the blog, I would have jumped on the contest. Lord knows I need help. I've been sending out resumes and networking for one year. I have not been called for one (yes, I have never been called to) interview.
The text on (this) your page is not legible. There are places to enter my name, email, and website, but those spaces cover text of your article.
Bottom line, I do not want to miss out on your next contest. I will be glad to share my story with your readers and make my best effort to win an amazing offer and contest.
Thanks for taking the time to read this,
Harvey Justmann
hjustmann@sbcglobal.net
216-533-3050"
Nancy Entrupcommented onAging Worker Initiative... "The job market has gotten worse in the last 24 months for the middle aged worker . Many of us are alittle to young to retire, or need to work. We can't live without money coming in anymore than any other age group can. What are we to do if they do not pass the 14 weeks of 99 extension. The bill that passed the extension for one year in late 2010 only covered people with more recent problems in the depression. I do not call it a recession when the levels are where they were in the great depression. This bill for 14 weeks to 99er's needs DESPARATELY to be passed if only for the middle aged who are being disciminated against so badly. If we are going to have laws on the books that fight discrimination, WE NEED TO MAKE THEM WORK. THEY DON:T"
Luz Gomezcommented onOlder Entrepreneurs: Regina Mason... "Great story! This illustrates the important role of entrepreneurship in a down economy. FIELD at the Aspen Institute also recommends searching our U.S. directory of microenterprise programs. It provides a listing of organizations by state that can help aspiring business owners with both training and financing: http://fieldus.org/Publications/2008/index.html
Best of luck!"
Sallycommented onOlder Entrepreneurs: Regina Mason... "Fabulous interview! I am delighted to say that Regina is a really special individual and incredible friend! I'm so happy to have been able to help with the internet marketing and their online presence. She and her daughter Becca have done an amazing job of continuing the efforts of spreading their viral presence online!
As they say here in Maryland "You go Girl!""
Kevin J. Timothycommented onGary Vinson... "To hear Mr. Vinson imply that the 10% unemployment rate is a tainted statistic is a very humbling thought. He's absolutely right in that there are thousands of unemployed people that aren't even on "paper." This interview is as real as it gets! While sad and true, I believe that resources like this serves as a "kick in the butt" and a wake up call to younger people of our generation.
I say this because I'm realizing that today's youth aren't taking their futures too seriously. In most cases, our own government isn't really on our side. With the consistent outsourcing of jobs by greedy business owners to the way our veterans are treated, we have to develop a sense of self-reliance. It's become plainly obvious that unlike decades of past, we cannot allow ourselves to become complacent with degrees and other forms of paper. While they may increase odds of landing employment, no guarantees come along with it.
I have to say that this is my first time on this website and I am already " Read the rest »
Carrie Kruegercommented onLaurie McCann... "Some valuable information here. She notes that a bigger concern that age may be that you are overqualified. This is an issue for many older workers and it's critical to be prepared to address it. Here is my blog with help on the issue of being overqualified: http://blog.jobfully.com/2010/08/youre-overqualified-what-are-they-really-saying/
I hope this is helpful in figuring out and addressing the true concerns of the employer."
Barry Adelmancommented onMaurizio & Debbie Adami... "I've always worked for myself and I'm still in business, but everything is harder. The easy days of making money are over. I wrote a song about two years ago describing how a successful business owner's life was changed by the economic collapse. The first lines (and chorus) are:
"I used to be tall, but now I am shorter
Brother won't you please come and lend me a quarter."
You can read the rest of the lyrics here: http://musicforhumanity.org/musicians/members/11/blog.php
These are tough times and I don't have any real answers."
Lou Fuococommented onJoel Nitzberg... "Joel,
I'd hire you in a NY minute if I could. You're right about us Boomers. By and large we never wanted for much of anything unlike our parents who were children of the Depression but you're a shining example of how resourceful our age group can be.
Hang in there buddy!
Lou"
K. Rostadcommented onKen Wadland... "I was very impressed with your assessment of being unemployed, of retrenching your financial life in order to go on, even if you had to take a loss in the short term. We have been in a similar situation. My husband was given notice of his upcoming lay-off at age 53, one month after the company learned he had diabetes. The electronics industry was in the midst of huge lay-offs at the time. I kept working as a substitute teacher while we consolidated our assets and property, moving to a very basic home in the countryside and selling our home in town. Our COBRA payments following the lay-off, and for 2 years, were $1100 per month, using up our severance pay. I took a half-time job, which was offered to me, as a para-ed and then became a part-time pre-school teacher with my own classroom again. The discount COBRA was unavailable to us in 2003 and 2004, but our state of Washington, offered a low cost health insurance for those with a low income, which we made use of when our severance " Read the rest »
Suecommented onDeborah Shane... "Deborah is terrific. Highly energetic, entrepreneurial and motivated to help others. Check out her site at www.deborahshane.com for more info."
morrisoncommented onDeborah Shane... "This woman is a great woman! Deborah Shane is a very smart and savvy person. I have no doubt this woman will be a success. She looks great, has a good head on her shoulders, is lucid, has a good handle on her situation, has gumption.........I'd follow her advice, she is the best! Good luck to you Deborah. You have inspired me to continue and move on. I just turned 60 also. Thank you for the motivation. We ain't dead yet."
Steve Smithcommented onJoel Nitzberg... "Joel, have you checked the website Idealist (www.idealist.org) for a possible position? You mention that you have been involved with grants for a lot of your working life. This website is one of the best compendiums of nonprofit organizations (and the resources they offer and need). Your grant writing might give you an edge with some of the jobs some of these nonprofits are offering."
Linda Hebertcommented onJoel Nitzberg... "Hello Fellow Boomers!
I am firm and adament believer that our generation, having grownup between the experience of the depression and today's technology, will lead our own generation, the melleniums and those beyond through this maze of extremes.
We have been blessed to have been born for a time such as this. Only the boomers understand how to bridge this gap, for only "we" have the combined knowledge of the past and the present. It's up to us to do the hard things first in order to blaze a new path for ourselves, or children, and grandchildren. After all, one thing that we all know and understand well is, "things change!' Change is in our natures and it's integrated in our DNA.
I would appreciate hearing from anyone willing to come together, put our heads together and brainstorm using our combined knowledge and experience to support ourselves and each other. There is a mass of business, personal, and professional know how, right here on the "Over Fifty and Out of Work" w" Read the rest »
stephencommented onDavid DeLong... "Great video! Thanks for your work in the research that made this video possible. I will share this with my brother who has been out of work for the past two years.
Stephen"
Chris Fidis Co-founder LongsIsland Breakfast Clubcommented onA farewell thank you to the Long Island Breakfast Club... "The Long Island Breakfast Club is still going to hold meetings and still assist those that need support for finding jobs. The LIBC will also steer a new direction to provide the organizations expertise as a consultive entity. The LIBC is NOT down and out for the count. The LIBC is better and stronger than ever for 2011.
Email or contact the LIBC for more details about its vision for 2011."
Karen Ecommented on50+ and Working, But Underemployed contributed by Michael Goldfarb... "Try being 68 and out of work since end-October 2008. About to run out of unemployment. Fortunately I do have Social Security. I WANT to work at an age when I SHOULD be retired...and I'm about to lose my unemployment. No one value the life and work experience of older workers. They are missing a great opportunity by not hiring me for part-time work (up to 20H/week)."
Steve Smithcommented on50+ and Working, But Underemployed contributed by Michael Goldfarb... "Michael, your story is an excellent real-life example of "underemployment". It is a shame that there is not some way to measure this along with the current unemployment figures. I saw a post recently on the web that mentioned that during the Great Depression, those who were no longer looking for work (the discouraged) were included in the commonly cited 25% unemployment figure. Today, if those same discouraged folks were included in the unemployment numbers (they are not), the true current unemployment would be around 16.8%. Plus add in the "underemployed" like yourself, and a much truer picture of the economy emerges. There is no doubt that, in general, businesses out there do not want the higher unemployed/underemployed figures published or disseminated since that likely would only reduce public confidence in the economy and thus could start a negative feedback loop, of budget cuts with businesses and governments and layoffs (which could even further affect the over 50 portion o" Read the rest »
Sarahcommented on50+ and Working, But Underemployed contributed by Michael Goldfarb... "Out of work since 4/09. Working part time (no chance of full time where I work) making 600.00-700.00 per month, and nothing for two months in the summer. I'm almost 51 with health problems (not from overweight) and suffering from depression. No one gets it."
Steve Smithcommented onAdvice for today's entrepreneurs... "For those potential entrepreneurs, there are a couple of resources that could be useful to some individuals in some situations. Those individuals who have some talent at making things (or painting, creating, etc.), a website called Etsy.com is a marketplace for all things handmade. It could be a possible way to earn some extra money, and/or if the talent is there, a new source of employment. To those who are employed, buying things on the site would help keep someone employed. The second resource is a website called SmartFlix.com. They have a plethora of how-to videos for rent on a wide range of topics. Some individuals could use these videos to attain enough skills to do certain jobs. And these jobs could help them get some additional income in some cases."
Steve Smithcommented onVideo: Heartless Layoffs, cont.... "Although I am self-employed, I have tried to follow the issues surrounding the downturn in the economy and especially unemployment. From my perspective, it appears to me that a wide range of businesses used the downturn in the economy as a reason (or excuse) to shed themselves of not only the short-term costs of wages, but more significantly the long-term costs they were facing with workers who had pension benefits due to them (or soon to be due them as in George's case). I think also, the businesses shed themselves of those employees who were a bigger liability in terms of potential health care costs to the firms, short-term and long-term. No doubt, employees over 50 were more likely to have all of these qualities which, again in my view, made them prime targets for dismissal. AND, more importantly, it is an often unstated reason why employers are not wanting to hire them now. I do not think that there was any kind of conspiracy among businesses to do this, but I do think they a" Read the rest »
Suecommented onDeborah Shane... "I copied Deborah's update from the general comments section and added it here:
Sue, When you interviewed me I was in SWFL, I am now back home in SEFL, Miami/Ft Lauderdale! I really appreciate you allowing me to share my story of reinvention, transition and hope. Life continues with everything that we’ve done and all the wonderful skills and qualities that we have. “Career transition is another beginning and an adventure”. I am living proof of that, especially after 50! Great work."
atlanta jobscommented onUnemployment levels for Americans 50 years and older... "Unemployed machinists are buying up used machines from bankrupt manufacturers and making a killing subcontracting small parts manufacturing and rebuilding specialty parts from their garage. Corporate debt and expenses are causing products and services to be cut, leaving wide open business opportunities for entrepreneurs in that market niche."
Suecommented onAdvice for today's entrepreneurs... "Steve, thank you very much for your helpful comments directed at entrepreneurs on our site. How did you find us?
In January 2011, we will be doing some interviewing in Pennsylvania where there is a program to help people found companies. Several laid-off older workers have used the resources offered by the program to help them launch their new businesses.
Please continue to add your thoughts and the benefit of your experience as a small business owner to our site."
Steve Smithcommented onAdvice for today's entrepreneurs... "I have a small service business in Tennessee--pressure washing, awning cleaning and gutter cleaning--and I would be happy to assist anyone who is interested in starting this kind of business in their area. I have been self-employed for most of my adult life from the time I graduated college.
If you are individual who thinks that you would like to be in business for yourself, then there are some local resources that can help you get started. However, these resources, from my experience, are often too general in nature. One way to get specific information on running a particular business is to get a newspaper from another area of the country than your own and check the business directory of the newspaper (near the classifieds usually). Look for a type of business you would like to be involved in. If you have few funds to get started, then choose one that requires low startup resources. Then, get a few back issues of the newspaper and see which advertisers in that section have be" Read the rest »
Suecommented onBob Delpizzo... "Bob posted this update in our general comments section, and I added it here:
I was one of the first to be interviewed by Sue when she started this project, and wanted to provide a follow-up to my video. In late October, I landed a consulting position as an IT Project Manager at a global manufacturing firm. It is a great opportunity and I am very pleased to have landed there. If there is one lesson that my transition has taught me, it is that transition is permanent, and jobs are temporary. As a result, I continue to network and help others in their employment quest. Thank you Sue, for giving me the opportunity to tell my story."
Maureen Mowercommented onGeorge Dys... "I'm not quite 50 yet (49), but I have run into the same kind of discrimination on the few job interviews I've had. Invariably they tell me I'm "overqualified" - which is code for anything from "you're too old" to "you're likely to leave when something better comes along". I've checked in at each one a few weeks later, ostensibly to see if there are any new openings, and every time the person they hired is half my age - with 1/4 of my intellect and 1/10 my experience.
I came up with an alternative to the Obama/GOP tax plan that would help reverse that trend by giving the tax breaks to employers that hire directly from the unemployment rolls, and scaling them so that the largest incentives were paid for hiring the 99ers and long-term unemployed. That would have helped get us back to work, and helped boost the economy too.
http://hiretrainretainact.blogspot.com/
Give it a read when you have a chance, and if you agree, share it with others. Whether or not we can get any att" Read the rest »
Lee-Lye Kimcommented onDan Sato... "Thank you for bringing Mr. Dan Sato's story. It was a refreshing one to hear amidst the time of confusion. It really empowers me to do better in life and my academic life as a student.
And I really do agree that this recession is a curious one."
Ho Sang Leecommented onSusan Fiske & Mike North... "I used the information from this clip for my presentation in a class. The word "stereotype" is widely used nowadays, but this clip provided me a whole new version of a stereotype. I think
the results of this research has a variety of possibilities to be applied in education or policy for both younger and older people. I am extremely grateful to both researchers and creators of this website for making this research available to the public."
Terri Tffanycommented onRick Peterson... "My heart goes out to Rick. He could be my husband who lost his job in August of 2007. Similar way, similar feelings and emotions and same results."
Terri Tffanycommented onFlashmobs4jobs today in Manhattan... "We are soon to be one of them too--any week. Over fifty and unemployed after working your whole life is the hardest challenge we have ever faced. Top that off with I live in Florida where it is ever worse."
Jobless Janecommented onFlashmobs4jobs today in Manhattan... "There were 30 people at the event, chanting:
Obama, Jobs!; Bernanke, Jobs!; Schumer, Jobs!
We want work!
G O P can't see!
Open the vaults!
We need a J O B to E A T
among others."
carol morgancommented onMichael McClatchey... "Mr. McClatchey of Michigan seems flexible, making me wonder if he would like to help my brother in Walled Lake, Michigan. He is doing a landmark business in real estate, leasing homes and other propreties for people who leave to find jobs elsewhere. My brother has been in property management for 30 years and is very hardworking and honest. From time to time he hires people to work for him as managers, etc. Please have Mr. McClatchey respond if he's interested. I don't know if my brother pays health or retirement benefits."
Perrycommented onBig week for Over 50 and Out of Work... "I am 50 and have been out of work for 17 months. I have applied for hundreds of positions with the company that eliminated my job. I was and am willing to relocate. I was successful with my company and never missed a day of work for the 6 years I worked for this company.
I started as a greeter in 2003, became a Customer Service Representitive, Retail Sales Representitive and was promoted to a District Sales Consultant. After doing a good job in that position I was promoted to a Regional Sales Consultant for Southern California. My inititive was retail to business and lead the region to the top in the enterprise, because of this, there was not a need for a consultant and my job was eliminated.
I have applied for Business Sales, Manager and Assistant Manager positions, Retail Sales, and Customer Service Positions. No luck! I have never even had a face to face interview. I had a couple of telephone interviews, but in most cases I recieved a letter (Email) stating "I was no" Read the rest »
Robert Millercommented onSusan Fiske & Mike North... "Your work is commendable Susan. Very informative and astute insights from Susan and Mike...missing: action plans, for employer, employee, educators and society to change these perceptions and the new Paradigm that the Information Age has created.Thank you Susan for keeping me in the loop.
Bob
My typing skills are close to pre-historic thus the lack of elaboration."
Pat Aloiacommented onDan Sato... "I listened to Dan Sato..........who was so inspirational. Our recession was so different from those previously experienced. "It was a loss of human capital across the entire economy of the United States." How true that statement is. Another great point he mentioned is saying "yes" to opportunities. Thank you Dan! We all need your positive spins these days!"
Eileen B. Garrahan, Ed.dcommented onBrian King and Jessica Goldstein... "Given all the current 'chatter' about the deficit, ergo, the economy, this video puts a face to the dillema facing the nation. When you multiply this story by 15,000,000,000, these people come out of the shadows and shake the reality that is ours. This should go beyond a viral video/blog and to the hearts of our congressional leaders and the President. Congratulations for an enlightening piece of journalism."
Laurie Lasercommented onBrian King and Jessica Goldstein... "I'm am 52 yrs old and unemployed. I'm a registered nurse and never dreamed I would be out of work. I would make comments at work about how blessed I was because my career could not be touched by the mess our country is in .
I now am starting to believe I was let go because of my age. The Facility Administrator is now a 25 year old man and from what I'm hearing through former co-workers is that most of the staff over 40 years old are gone for one reason or another. The new staff being brought in are mostly under 40. (Way under 40).
The company I worked for is a multimillion dollar company and none of the employees let go would be able to prove it was because of age discrimination.
I have been looking for work for 7 months. It is funny that I saw the video of Brian King and Jessica because just the night before it dawned on me that maybe the reason I'm not finding work is because of my age. The panic rises in my throat just typing this."
Susan Kayecommented onSusan Kaye... "Seeing the video now is very sad. My house was sold and I have to be out of it by September 30, 2010. At the end of June I was fired from my job. The only place I could find to live was renting a room in some one house. To rent apt. want to see income, unemployment is not good income for them."
Patriciacommented onAn Over 50 and Out of Work interviewee who needs help... "Dear Mary, How did our grandparents manage before us in the Great Depression? Once again we are in an economy/job market that is devastatingly unstable in some parts of the United States. I don't know your details and I am sure you have done so much to get back on track. Have faith and please try to keep yourself mentally, physically and socially stimulated. My thoughts are with you. Patricia"
Patrickcommented onAn Over 50 and Out of Work interviewee who needs help... "Mary,
I read your story on Susan Sipprelle's blog, www.overfiftyandoutofwork.com, and my heart went out to you. It is so frustrating to be over 50 and out of work in this current time when you know so many private sector firms are flush with cash (in the trillions) but refuse to invest in expansion and staff additions because of the uncertain business environment. So many people I know have spent months, even years, sitting in front of their computer sending hundreds (even thousands) of job applications and resumes out without receiving a single response from the Human Resources Departments of the prospective employers (your comment about the federal government struck a chord with me by the way). If there ever was a way to make a person feel isolated and unwanted, this process is it.
That being said, there is a way out. Here are the lessons I learned when I was in the same position as you:
*Get out from behind the computer and join as many job networking groups as you can b" Read the rest »
Donna Martineaucommented onWeirton... "Just had a chance to view your site. It's very sharp, good work by all. Hope that your project is successful and all that you hope it to be. I will tell everyone to take a look."
Seancommented onIf you're 50-plus, get on the hiring trends bandwagon!... "We need to look at our strengths and determine how we can put them to good use. IF we do what everyone else is doing, there is a strong chance we will get the same results. I saw a "presume" a few weeks ago, which was a video presentation that was sent to the CEO...they got the job"
Arnie Bravercommented onInteract... "Learned the last tier of unemployment benefits (EB) is being terminated effective 2/18 because "Michigan no longer meets Federal criteria ". Me & 29000 others lose this benefit. 12 weeks to go.Sucks!
LARA - Extended Benefit Program Ends in Michigan - Up to 20 weeks of... michigan.gov"
ken tekielacommented onEarly responses to our two-year follow up survey... "We must fight, stay strong and let the world know that we are the hidden majority and we have power. We have to come togather and let our voices be heard. Dammit, i am tired of this. Contact me and let out voices be heard!!!"
Patricia Sahertiancommented onValentina Janek... "Valentina, it is good to see you moving forward and growing the Long Island Breakfast Club. Best of luck."
E. Brian Starvaggicommented onRick Barrett... "Rick - first thanks for your service in the military, i was just a little fart when you was serving in the Vietnam War and to be in a Special outfit is truly remarkeable. the way i see it - you are extremely valuable asset to anyone. All the hard life you had in growing up in Louisana, the many years of military and special training, the civilian crafts that you have aquired would just floor employers if they gave you a chance. I am like you i was raised to do my job and the military trained me well - i am capable of so much with all the lives i have been responsible for and the millions of dollars of Army Equipment, yet I cannot even get a job. I am back to school and I am going to try harder this time around because I too dont beleive in giving up."
E. Brian Starvaggicommented onJoe Magnone... "Joe, firstly sir- thank you for your service in the mill! secondly, I pray for your health! thank you for sharing this story even though there was a great deal of pain to speak it. You are right completely, people should not be treated this way. My grandfather retired from the mill, my poor father never got his retirment- he was like you - he was swindled even though it was a accident and not his fault. I too wanted to be a steel worker but i am glad i chose to go to the military. There was a time when i was mistreated also in the military, i had to go to War and was denied the chance to go see my daughter- what a thing to do and not knowing if your gonna come back. I am feel very bad for guys like you who are hard working, smart, qualified people. Its ironic, I had 22 years in the military as a leader with numerous training responsible for millions of dollars of equipment and was responsible for peoples lives yet I cannot find work.
I was really fired up hearing your story and my " Read the rest »
E. Brian Starvaggicommented onJoe Price... "Joe
thanks for your service in the mill, thanks for sharing. I would have been a 3rd generation steel worker but i decided to go in to the military service. No offense to anybody for those who tried to follow their grandfather and fathers foosteps. I too wanted to be a steel worker like my family and realized it was hard but prideful. I have had a hard life in the military, wars etc, but it was the smartest thing i ever did. I listened to older folks in the late 80's. but.....now i too am like you, after 22 years as a military leader who has been responsible for millions of dollars of equipment, ledership training, a degree, and i cannot get a job. I feel like you .... Mr. President please explain to all of us who are very qualified adn like your self very qualified what are we suppoised to do? Why wont they hire us? '
God Bless Take Care Joe"
R Smithcommented onAn Over 50 and Out of Work interviewee who needs help... "Dear Mary, my name is R. Smth, my wife and I has the same problem. We are both are educated and over 50 been looking for work for 2 years. we got to the point where we got a car title loan to pay bills and rent thinking we may find a job by time to pay the first month on the loan, that dnt happen. Now we've created another problem. Rent, bills and loan is due. This made my wife very sick. Maybe our faith is not as strong as it should be? We still believe that God will send someone or someone will send what we need to manage through. Mary we feel you, just build your faith up as we will do the same"
Juan Salvaticommented onBrian King and Jessica Goldstein... "Dear Jessica & Brian ~ I wanted to let you know guys that I felt deeply touched not only by the scope and honesty of your heart aching story but, most importantly, by your unique human dimension courageously exhibited in your discourse. Only two weeks went by since I started to gradually envisioned some palpable light at the end of the tunnel, having myself been living a 'hand to mouth existence' for well over four years. Perhaps you may have heard similar stories all the time, but I would like to humbly point out that I am a professional actor originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina who has amassed a consistent body of work mainly in the USA, Europe and obviously in Latin America who's still struggling to make ends meet. Having earned my MFA and toured the USA many times over doing Regional Theatre as well as being part of the International Theatre Festival arena over the course of three plus decades, I also feel nothing but disheartened by the sour reality that we performing art" Read the rest »
Williamcommented onExplanation of Unemployment Extension... "What we really need is to get the economy going so there are more jobs available....but ever since Congress (well, one party) refused to pass the $1.5 trillion stimulus economists said we needed at the beginning of 2009, it's been obvious that this is going to be a long downturn.."
joseph sangataldocommented onDr. Carl Van Horn... "http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/31/long-term-unemployed-middle-class_n_942734.html
see article how I am laid off at 54"
Kevin Morgancommented onJoan McCleskey... "Don't give up. There is always a way if you can see it, and often it is in the front of our faces, but so close we cannot see it. Wishing you well, as you struggle with this. The real trick is to hang on to one's own sense of self worth. Kind Regards, kevin aka @FitOldDog"
Peter Johansencommented on"I Tried, No More," from a former facility manager, who is 50+... "I mentioned to a career center employee at a job fair that employment challenges are like challenges that Rosa Parks felt when Rosa wanted to sit at the front of the bus. All of a sudden, the career center employee said, "I can not hear you." Just watch "Boycott" and then you will see a correlation. I also mentioned to the career center employee that on an application, I wrote, "if you can not understand discipline or sacrifice, then I do not understand what you are looking for." You was the California State employment agency. Sacrifice refers to a Veteran and discipline refers to education. The career center employee said, "You said that?" Yes - Freedom of speech and the press."
Peter Johansencommented onBob Delpizzo... "Being out of work since Aug. '07 and being a 99'r is a challenge. The current jobs bill includes segregation such as 'do not hire the unemployed' creates a dilemma. The challenges that exist are equivalent to what Rosa Parks faced and must be addressed. That challenge is discrimmination and an American Tradition."
Davidcommented on'Losing my home' by Bill Davis... "Dear Bill
You have many brothers & sisters in your forclosure family
who share in your pain. You are not alone & for whatever
Its worth your in very good company.
It's been a humbling journey for me & so I can identify with &
respect your pain. My journey from NYC housing projects, first
job at 14 as dishwasher, first generation born in US, first in my family
To not only graduate from a public state college, but also
achieve a US Air Force commission as an Officer,
Service as Nuclear Weapons officer in Strategic Air Command
and then law school with some GI bill assistance
was an evolution, that I never suspected would lead back
financial disempowerment especially since I always lived well
below my means & never really cared much for keeping with the
Jones' I purchased & drove low mileage used vehicles, &
I am proud to say even in my very best years I was regular
at garage sales, thrift shops & consignment stores; proud
t" Read the rest »
Kansas Citycommented on'Losing my home' by Bill Davis... "Bill, this is beautifully written. I can feel your pain and anguish. I'm so sorry that you found yourself in this situation and pray that things are improving for you and your family. May you find comfort, peace and hope."
Grahamcommented onMike Risinger... "Mike i feel for you, i understand your situation as i am almost in the same situation as you when you say your wife and kids dont love you anymore. The thing is they dont realise they would not have a roof over their head and having the lifestye that they have now if it wasnt for you. Your kids are going to be over 50 and will realise then your situation. God Bless"
Patriciacommented onOver 50 interview at Occupy Wall Street with Iraq vet... "Thank you very much for your service to our country. I appreciate what you have done. My father was a traumatized combat veteran who never got help. I am glad you are speaking out. Best wishes for you and your family-beautiful daughter. God bless----"
Lost Sailorcommented on"I Tried, No More," from a former facility manager, who is 50+... "I TOTALLY have felt the same INSULTS TO THE SENSES that you have my friend. And it's funny, I might have slipped by if I hadn't followed my moral compass. You know, the one these talk-radio bastards yak on and on about, but have used or owned, or would know how to follow if it fell into their hands.
I found myself faced with a HUGE choice in late 04 that caused me to choose between the IP guru that flew around the country fronting for a major vendor or working near home plate for a local biz to fill the necessary role of single dad. There were problems that could not be counseled away and I made the decision MY FATHER WOULD HAVE MADE. Well, it worked for a while thought the inconvenience of an IT Director who couldn't drop everything and run in at 3am proved less attractive than working the poor programmer that worked along with me being forced to run the whole shooting match (Last I heard his health was on it's least leg). Since then, my divorce finalized and to save the kids " Read the rest »
Johncommented onAn Over 50 and Out of Work interviewee who needs help... "I am John P. I am a 47 old (round up and I am), college educated (student loan still owed), 7 year US Army Vet, that is working three jobs, doing dirty hard work, packing earthworms, slamming cans (5 cent refund center), and sweeping streets. Oh, I just got let go from that one but (f) it! They called to let me know on my only Federal Holiday I will ever celebrate again. I got lucky and was able to celebrate with the politicians, bureaucrats, and judges. I use to hate them damn attorneys but I salute you counselor(s) saw you working too... My new address is: http://www.facebook.com/OccupyBuffalo
Video Link: http://www.overfiftyandoutofwork.com/"
Kelleycommented onKelley Briggs... "Yes, I did use my unemployment as an opportunity to learn new skills. I enrolled in an online university and earned an Associates degree in Criminal Justice."
Kelleycommented onKelley Briggs... "Yes, we had 2 incomes for most of 30 years, but our expenses were almost as much as our incomes. We always paid our bills on time or early, but there was not a lot left over. Childcare expenses that allowed me to work were in excess of $6000/year for 5 years. We also helped my mom out with some of her expenses when she ran out of money several years after my dad passed away. Maybe it was just bad luck when our cars broke down or had other unexpected expenses, but every time we had "a little extra", it never had the chance to build into anything. With a mortgage of over $1500/month, 2 incomes totalling $90 doesn't go very far."
Joan Freemancommented onOver 50 Interview at Occupy Wall Street with former social studies teacher... "The “2011 Fair Playing Field Act to Protect American Workers Against Age Discrimination” http://signon.org/s/HkT7QV
CORPORATE GENOCIDE =BOOMERS+55+ers are 43 % of the LONG TERM
UNEMPLOYED the HIGHEST RATE of any age group!
Nearly 1/2 Of Oldest Unemployed Have Been Jobless For Over A Year!
A 2009 Supreme Court Ruling in the case of (Robert Gross Vs FBL,
Farm Bureau Life) the 83rd Largest Company in the world changed the age discrimination laws as we knew them. Adding insult to injury; CLARENCE THOMAS WROTE a new law that nullified & ended the age discrimination portion of the Title VII ADEA of 1967 Act that protected women, ethnicity, age discrimination, religion & disabilities in civil rights law. Age discrimination was first, what will be next??
These are the results of the Clarence Thomas law http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/02/long-term-unemployment_n_1071851.html?ref=business"
Mollycommented onNew Occupy Wall Street interview and a new resource... "I can't help but think what can I do? This web site is doing something. I am no longer a job creator but I want to vote for those who believe in social action, justice. I need a new economic vision."
Jim Beelercommented onMary Sironen... "Advertise yourself as a consultant. Hire out for private parties. You have too much experience to throw in the towel now. Just refold the towel and "shake that thang" lady...(the drink that is...)"
Obbopcommented onOver 50 Interview at Occupy Wall Street with former social studies teacher... "I was a substitute teacher for three years, a mid-life career change that due to many circumstances did NOT pay off for me.
I was exposed, though. to K-12 educational systems since a substitute teacher teaches at ALL grade levels and class-types.
I really enjoyed the 11th and 12th graders and especially in the social studies arena that was my specialty I had obtained my two teaching credentials in.
Sadly, I left the educational field behind since there was more laying-off than hiring and most openings desired a coach for sports more than someone knowledgeable and excited about the subject.
There was also, as the the interviewed teacher mentioned... well, I declare that the USA educational systems, ascertained by first-hand experience and MUCH reading about the matter, is mostly a method of disseminating propaganda... of brainwashing USA youth.
Notice how so many elites and others send THEIR youth to certain academies etc. so THEIR youth are not indoctrinated as the lowly" Read the rest »
topazmoon11commented onOver 50 Interview at Occupy Wall Street with former social studies teacher... "Really enjoyed the comments of Warren Brodhead and would have loved to have had him for a social studies teacher when I was growing up in the 1970's in Salt Lake City, UT. Perhaps if I had I wouldn 't have been so worried about success thereby falling off the student loan cliff when I went back to law school as an older adult student and racked up massive student loan debt that has not paid off, or been paid off!"
The Snarky Boomercommented onOVER 50 INTERVIEW WITH TEMP WORKER AT OCCUPY WALL STREET... "In my humble opinion, UUhhmm (The Snarky Boomer types again) When the 1% has manged to eliminate the middle class completely (the backbone of America) there will be no one left to buy their d@%# stuff. Less taxes to collect- infrastructures will (and are) crumbling. They (the 1%) are cannibalizing themselves and to greedy to see it. Cut staff to up the black ink, that can only go on so long. Its just common sense folks, not economic genius. Greed NEVER gets enough, there is not enough money in the world to satisfy the 1%, but then again money buys power, power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts, absolutely."
The Snarky Boomercommented onVirginia Montelongo... "Not sure what your background is- but you might want to look into "RentaGrandma.com" It originated in Los Angles, CA- for all types of domestic help- pet sitting and personal assistant. You have to have a background check."
The Snarky Boomercommented onValentina Janek... "I wish I lived somewhere other than the end of the world. That is why on line means so much to me. Nothing near me unless I want to drive 50-60 miles."
The Snarky Boomercommented onKevin Lincoln... "I tried that myself-reinvent my career choice. This has been 10 years ago, then I was 50. When I started my life's journey, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I got married VERY young and before the age of 20, I was offered an opportunity to work in a bank, in bookkeeping. I jumped on the chance. So for approximately 14 years that is what I did. I worked in every department and took all the classes I could and made it to a middle management position. So, suffice to say, I did the first thing that was available whether it was my talent or passion, it was a living. Then after children were on their own, I decided to make a change and went back to school and trained for medical records coding. Made it through the class with A's and got the certificate. Came out and applied at local hospital, no openings. Applied for advertised job opening at a drug store. The first question asked, was ..have you ever worked in a medical office or setting before? Well, no, I had been in banking m" Read the rest »
Matthew Goldsmithcommented on"I Tried, No More," from a former facility manager, who is 50+... "I just wanted to say I really respect your summary of your experiences and to say I am only 24 and also used to believe these sorts of things the governments trick us into believing. I am part of the occupy London movement and hope that we can start to open peoples eyes to the fact the carpet will be pulled from under all of them too, so we that we can start a discussion on a new type of system and no we are not anti capitalist as the media keeps portraying us, we are just concerned at how life now seems to be more about profit and less about life for everyone these days, I also wan't to draw you attention to a video on the net as I can tell you with a certainty that almost all these (financial) problems we are having are almost all down to banks please watch this video and then do ya own research you will be shocked, youtube "Abolish the Federal Reserve by Ralph Epperson [Full Presentation]" kind regards and respect to all of you that have had the carpet pulled from underneath you"
The Snarky Boomercommented onOne unemployed older American's miserable mortgage refinance saga... "I too am a now 60, but at 59 pink slipped Boomer. I started my blog back in July of 2011 to reach out to other pink slipped Boomers. I have a lot on my blog that may be of help to some - http://boomersberg.com/how-to-retire-without-fort-knox-as-your-retirement-fund/ Also is a link library to sites that could be helpful. My husband and I did the reverse mortgage deal and I have my RV paid for. May end up living in it. I really love RVing, but if your health is not good, that becomes a poor option.
I started my blog, thinking of how Eskimo legend states that the old eskimo's are set adrift on an iceberg with a small ration of food- exactly what I felt like and still do, but mentally I am coming out of the dark pit my mind was in."
The Snarky Boomercommented on"I Tried, No More," from a former facility manager, who is 50+... "The sentiments of a kindred Boomer. I resonate with these words for I too have been on the same receiving end of the nasty "New Reality". Those born from 1946 to 1964 are supposed to be in the Boomer Generation, so there is a commonality of experiences during that time span. But now those who have not been smacked down by current economic conditions cannot relate. I am seeing that nothing divides people better than money. The have's and the have not's. Young, old, black, white or martian- without resources the world takes on a whole new perspective and you grab onto what sanity you have left, so that does not go out the door too. http://about.me/snarkyboomer"
M. Castleberrycommented onOne unemployed older American's miserable mortgage refinance saga... "I am in the same situation also. My husband and I have a small business that has almost come to a hault, directly related to the economy. We have almost all equity in our property and can't refinance . What does that tell you? I am talking about 30 years of blood, sweat and tears in this property. If we lose it, we have nothing else. Trying to sell, but there are no buyers. This government does not care. They want to own everything we have and control us all. I feel there is no hope left."
Howie Appelcommented onProfessor Andrew Sum... "I'm well over 50, in fact I'm 64 and living in Orlando, Florida. I'm a veteran as well. I am a former Corporate Recruiter and have been out of work since Feb 09. As a method of paying forward I review resumes for people and run ProNet Career Resources. Now I am seeking a way to survive. Not sure what to do."
Suecommented onProfessor Andrew Sum... "Laura, please take a look at the site www.shadowstats.com, where you will be able to find alternate unemployment charts at http://www.shadowstats.com/alternate_data/unemployment-charts
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported an unemployment rate of 9.1 percent for September 2011 (U3). The BLS reported an unemployment + underemployment rate of 16.5 percent for September 2011 (U6). Neither of these figures includes the 1,037,00 discouraged jobseekers."
Suecommented onRudy Limas... "Laura, thank you very much for your generous offer! When we went to Oregon and interviewed Rudy, the local TV station covered the story that Over 50 and Out of Work was interviewing older unemployed workers in the Portland area. A local businessman who owns a medical parts manufacturing company, saw the TV story and hired Rudy, who now has a full-time job with benefits! We posted this happy news about Rudy on our blog!"
Joan Freemancommented onProfessor Andrew Sum... "Of the 11% do u know exactly how many workers age 45 & older are unemployeed. Many are no longer counted on the unemployment & virtually invisible!!"
Gerard Stroycommented onBrian King and Jessica Goldstein... "Thanks a lot for your life-video....although not from the US ,I can so wholesomely relate to the story of both of you! Counting myself to the"lost generation " from just before the internet,I really recognized when Brian said "i've never been able to prosper"despite all my qualities. The difference being that the road my partner and myself together have gone has lead us from the Netherlands to Germany to New Zealand to Switzerland back to the Netherlands. I recognize the wit mixed with disilusion and anguish in your body language. We had an extremely fragmented carreer,and ended up self employed in Holland.By one way or another we have managed to save 1100.000 eur by virtue of ultra frugal rational attitudes towards litteraly everything.We have never ever made any choice of the heart, always of the mind though.
We had to learn fluent German and learn to understand Swiss German with all its antics.But our minds have transcended fear. Although I always felt an inherent dismay of" Read the rest »
Gerard Stroycommented onAnthony Lalos... ""We are the richest country in the world" Have you heard about countries like Norway, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Sweden Finland, Netherlands,Denmark,Singapore ...you would very soon find out when traveling there that your statement is inherently wrong...even when we let the unfavourable exchange rates for the US dollar out....the US media make no mention of this, and US citizens are poorly traveled generally... Gerard, Netherlands"
Gerard Stroycommented onJanet Falk... "Great to hear that finally feelings of sheer anger and disgust do exist and are being pronounced!
Gerard Netherlands 53 years old"
Gerard Stroycommented onSheila Cooper... "Dear Sheila, You appear to be such an amiable person....what really upsets me is when you tell that you were escorted out of your workplace, as a piece of refuse so to speak.How come that there is no outright anger expressed. It all conveys an impression of powerless compliance with an in itself totally immoral dehumanized working environment .Sickening from my perspective, but probably an unassailable symptom of human commodification. Gerard Stroy, 53 years , Netherlands."
Gerard Stroycommented onBill Davis... "Everytime I am just dumbfounded by the fact that these people haven't made any substantial savings during their "prosperous times" and by that I don't mean 10.000$ or so. How can it be that myself having had all the adversities in terms of unemployment, years idle against my will, living in what you refer to as socialist Europe, as a self employed person taxed with additional purpose taxations in my home country Holland , and still be able to save 1000000Euros and more.All this despite having suffered from all three major downturns on the stock market.There must be a fundamental (cultural) different pattern in spending behavior. Honestly, touring the US southwest this summer, 6500km, I have been able to see the difference in attitudes.A patty example...I live in a highly energy efficient house, I use 35 Watts for lighting.An average small coffe bar ,I have counted easily reaches 3000Watts during the day, only lighting! does this ring some, some, sort of bell? Gerard, Netherlands"
Rich Tanenbaumcommented onOVER 50 INTERVIEW WITH TEMP WORKER AT OCCUPY WALL STREET... "A degree is "sociology" is not worth the paper it's printed on. This is the result of poor advisement and a catchall field of study for the academically confused. If she had followed in her mother's footsteps and taken nursing, she'd have a job today. College for the masses is not what people imagine. It's a shame, but far from too late. This kid needs to get into a graduate program in nursing, or another aspect of the medical field which requires licensure. Then she'll get a job."
Mollycommented onOver 50 interview with former construction worker at Occupy Wall Street... "What an interesting guy. It is so true. We had a revolution, a civil war, a labor movement, a European War about systems. They matter if we think liberty and justice for all means anything. We have more liberty but hardly more justice today. Ignorance, sickness, hunger need more than an individual alone to overcome. They need systems created and regulated by justice. We are not so stupid we can't figure out the liberty part of it also."
Janis Chamouncommented onOlder Entrepreneurs: Michael Grottola... "Thank you for sharing your inspirational story. It struck a chord with me; a chord that REALLY needed striking. I lost my publishing business in Oct. '08 and have been struggling every since, trying to get back into corporate communications and marketing. I know in my heart it won't happen, because I'm too experienced and talented, but have been terrified to start another business, after losing everything the last time. Thank you for providing the kick in the butt I needed. Best of luck to you!"
Suecommented onOVER 50 INTERVIEW WITH TEMP WORKER AT OCCUPY WALL STREET... "Thank you for your empathetic and forceful response, Julie! Gerlyne was not ungrateful for the boost in life she received from her parents. She is wondering what the future will hold for her."
Julie Johnsoncommented onOVER 50 INTERVIEW WITH TEMP WORKER AT OCCUPY WALL STREET... "Obviously Faith you are without empathy. Are you in her shoes??? If not, try putting yourself there. I run across people just like you every single time I protest with OWS. People like you roll down their car window and yell, "Get a job!". Well, to you well meaning types - I have a job, and have worked with the same company for 7 years now. It pays better than what most people seem to have and I feel very fortunate. I live in a house that is paid for. So, I have a job and feel fairly secure, if that means anything. Why do I go out and protest? For my children and grandchildren, for people like the woman in this video, for the homeless person who cannot get work because of emotional issues, for the prisoner who has served time and has been paroled and won't find work, for the person who is over 50 and won't easily find another job when up against a younger person, for the addict who can't find the way to a job. I'm sick of rich people, even those who were born with the silver spoon in" Read the rest »
Joan Freemancommented onProfessor Andrew Sum... "OPEN LETTER : To those who are being paid to protect us.
EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) Representatives Congress and the Supreme Court
OLDER WORKERS NEED YOUR HELP IN LIFTING THE BURDEN a 2009 Supreme Court Ruling in the case of (Robert Gross Vs FBL, Farm Bureau Life) the 83rd Largest Company in the world has inflicted on older workers.
Its PUBLIC RECORD that Clarence Thomas wrote a new law that nullified and ended the age discrimination portion of the 1967 EEO Act that protected women, ethnicity age discrimination, religion, disabilities.
THIS RULING HAS INFLICTED inhumane hardships on older workers and clearly violated their civil and human rights. It allows biases in want ads that disqualify the unemployed, in the screening and interview process; and perpetuates long term unemployment. Age discrimination creates jobs lose, depletes life savings, college, and retirement funds. Predictably blue and white collar workers are pushed into poverty with no heal" Read the rest »
Shiva Steve Ordogcommented onOccupy Wall Street: Renewing American Democracy? ... "Great article. The people I am meeting at Occupy Raleigh mirror this diversity and the concerns mentioned. This is about have a more democratic economy. Adam Smith would not recognize the current system as what he had in mind. The corporate bosses, rich, politicians, etc. are the new aristocracy. We need to reduce their influence and spread the benefits so all participate.
Shiva Steve Ordog"
The Snarky Boomercommented onGeorge Dys... "A lot of us deal with the frustration everyday of what used to work, now no longer does. Like monkeys in a lab experiment we were trained to do X + X = reward. Now X+X= feces. What is very frustrating is we have no previous experience on how to cope with the situation most of us find ourselves in. The learning curve is VERY steep and some are being shoved over the cliff."
The Snarky Boomercommented onKelley Briggs... "Look at it as a chance to learn new skills. 1. How to live on next to nothing -skill translated: you know how to move a company from red to black on the books. 2. Negotiating with bill collectors- skill translated: Hard negotiating skills that help a company navigate to a win/win 3. Dealing with frustration- skill translated: how to cope with frustration in the work place. 4. Writing/ interview for different job opportunities- skill translated: Improved communication skills verbal, written and visual."
Mollycommented onOver 50 and Out of Work at Occupy Wall Street... "Help us all understand if there is another way past simplistic slogans of capitalism's triumphalism and market deification. Can intelligent citizens find a new way to by pass money-media power? Thank you for not having a point of view besides the reporting of the gross evil of the over 50 unemployed."
Jim Beelercommented onOver 50 and Out of Work at Occupy Wall Street... "Complaining about corporate greed and denying "we the corporations" provides little life to our employment problem. If you tell me as a business owner I am not allowed to run my business, then why should I be in business? If you want to run your own business, the get a license. Denying my rights will eliminate your employment. You can make me give back my money, but you cannot force me to stay in business."
Virginia Amslercommented onOver 50 and Out of Work at Occupy Wall Street... "Thank you for the information your pictures convey, thank you for a simple and dignified explanation of what is happening. I learned more from your piece than I have from any other media coverage. Now I want to learn more. Please keep up your coverage behind the camera and in a written story."
Kevin Morgancommented onRobert Lotstein... "Hi!
You're right, it will come along, but remember that chance favors the prepared mind so prepare. I was terminated about one year ago, and I too have been calculating the life of my savings and so forth. My approach is really described (in somewhat manic terms, but amusing) in The Four Hour Work Week, by Tim Ferriss. You can see what I am starting at http://olddogsintraining.com. We'll see if I manage to make a buck. That's my plan. Hang in there. Boy, you don't look 65, and I wish I had your head of hair. Best wishes. -k @FitOldDog aka kevin morgan"
Sandy H. Millercommented onGeorge Dys... "Thanks for sharing George. I related to many of your thoughts. I am not sure there is an answer at this time? I think our once amazing country needs to bottom out completely before things will change for the better and we begin to rise out of the hole we are in. Most folks are in denial as to how BAD "it" is... I think a group of us need to get together are pool ideas, money and anything else it takes to move forward! We all need to drop our EGOs and put our heads/resources together. Strenght in numbers is still a good one!
Just say'in... Good Luck!!
- Sandy H. Miller / former successful entrepeneur"
Eyeswideshutcommented onGeorge Dys... "Thought I'd follow-up with a little story. I just returned empty handed from a trip to S. NV. I had found a connection which networked to a job. After a phone call and several emails it became apparent I'd best take a drive and show up in person. I did but suddenly sensed a problem. "I never promised you a job" is what I got. I didn't say it but, yes you did. It makes me feel like I am reading things into communications, wishful thinking. I just drove a thousand miles and got hosed? Sure did! I did not become confused or make a mistake. These types of issues are new to me, I'm not used to this insincerity in the job market. It has been two years with no sense this stupidity will end. Not a pity party, just truth. I guess there are a number of employers who have zero integrity and getting worse. Seems we are all in a tight spot. Remaining positive is becoming a monumental task. Damn hard to uphold self-confidence, worth and value with this crap kicking me in the crotch all the time, gee" Read the rest »
Laura Lee Carter aka the Midlife Crisis Queencommented onHope and persistence pay off for one of our interviewees... "Congratulations Virginia! I went through a similar experience in the early 2000's which inspired me to change everything in my life. That's how I became the Midlife Crisis Queen, and how I began advocating for those in midlife hell. It's those totally humbling experiences which teach us the most about ourselves."
Suecommented onInteract... "Brian, thank you for your comment on our site. I regret that we reached our 100 interviews before we were able to interview coal miners for our project. Did you work or are you currently employed in the coal industry?"
Brian W. Patoskycommented onInteract... "My Grandfather, Joseph Lampel, was Western Pa U.M.W.A. President until his death, this past July, and I watched the same thing happen to the coal industry. Presently, we have been warned that St. Joe Lead, now Horsehead industry, will be closed down in a few years, O.S.H.A., the E.P.A., and our Government in general is anti-business, with staggering fines, and unattainable guidelines, and restrictions that choke, and kill even successful businesses! What a shame!
Brian W. Patosky"
Peter Johansencommented onGeorge Dys... "I have been and presently in the same boat. As far as resumes are concerned, one can become confused what to apply for. When employers state, "You do not want this job" or "How long do you expect to be around" or "You do not fit," then arrogance becomes a norm. Oh, by the way, an attorney will say the condition is not discrimmination."
Peter Johansencommented onSheila Bliven... "I started working when I came over, had to learn English, and when I needed money. Thus, practically everything at a young age and gaining experience. Now, after applying to various qualified positions, one becomes confused by which position a person should apply for. Furthermore, then there are the complaints that a person must endure why one has not worked for such a long time. Never mind the continuous discrimmination that is occuring, which is preventing a hiring or when persons assume that a person is too old towards being in a workplace. I would call them an atheist for disrespect towards mankind. As to the food problem, I understand nutrition programs called SNAP are improving quals and should provide basic food needs. Besides, the centers will give out additional assistance programs."
CHRIScommented onMike Risinger... "I have been out of work since summer of 2007 i.m going to be 51 next month. What blows me away is how the online apps will come right out and ask for your birthdate, i thougt that was a restricted question under federal employement laws, where is the enforcement?"
Eyeswideshutcommented onGeorge Dys... "New to this site. Just turned 53, thought reading comments would somehow sooth me, it hasn't. I keep being told, "you're not the only one." Does this make anyone feel better? I specialized in the mid 90's so when I got older I wouldn't have to be outside working on equipment in the snow. Um,...seemed like a good idea at the time. Try as I might, I've made no connections. I have found opposition when I attempt to do "walk-ins" at employers to see if they have work. I suspect too many people do this due to widespread unemployment. Honestly, I've never really had to shop for a job. Generally I always had a network to go on or similar. The networks are gone and the overall friendliness of employers has become confrontational! So I have relied on the internet, checking job-sites and sending resumés, so far a colossal waste of time. I seldom hear from anyone, the manners are gone. I am in the twilight zone. I can feel judgments about my sanity and my quality as a man. True, I admit my pride" Read the rest »
Peter Johansencommented onStephen Murphy... "The reason is there exists a lack of interest and various excuses. The claim is attitude is your problem."
Elizabeth Zimacommented onElizabeth Zima... "I GOT A JOB! I was hired on Sept. 19 by a medical association to be their staff writer covering medical-legal and policy issues. I am so happy I could bust!"
Johncommented onCheryl Cheney... "I think you are a credit to all of us gessers and I am proud of you. Keep your chin up because you have helped many people and that energy will come back to you. You are fantastic and will be fine."
Stand-up Galcommented onBig week for Over 50 and Out of Work... "The site's data charts compare timelines and stats for American workers aged 50+ to those for all workers aged 16+. The data would be more compelling still if you also broke out Americans 49-. Please consider including this third cohort in your bar graphs -- or using it in place of the 16+ data."
Pigbitin Madcommented onGeorge Dys... "I don't see how anything short of a quota system will get us back to work. The tax break cannot possibly outweight the costs of our health insurance and salary. If they save a thousand bucks, our health insurance premiums will far exceed that in a year. I really don't know why everyone does not pay the same premium for healthcare. It should be averaged out across the entire population. After all, the young people will get old at some point....and if they don't, too bad! If we cannot have a national health insurance, everyone should at least pay the same.
I too just turned 50 and I have a better chance of getting killed by a terrorist than every finding a full time job. I must have sent out approximately 600 resumes in the last 18 months and I have had 4 interviews. In at least three of them, the interviewers became noticably absent minded the minute I walked through the door, as if they were expecting someone younger. And I can pass for late 30's. I did not put any jobs o" Read the rest »
Pigbitin Madcommented onBig week for Over 50 and Out of Work... "Yes, it is age. I am your exact age and have been unemployed exactly as long. I have always gotten jobs before but now all of a sudden i am not qualified even when I apply for a job that is the exact duplicate of something i have already done."
Pigbitin Madcommented onBig week for Over 50 and Out of Work... "Yes, it is age. I am your exact age and have been unemployed exactly as long. I have always gotten jobs before but now all of a sudden i am not qualified even when I apply for a job that is the exact duplicate of something i have already done."
Mollycommented onHow 9/11 affected our interviewees... "These memories bring back the tears and the realization again how we are all the same in loss be it jobs, or the horror of a beloved life lost."
Jennifer Russellcommented onMike Boyd... "I'll ask- do you wash a sink of dishes/load-unload dishwasher- mow grass- run vacuum, any household task IS contributing even if it doesn't feel like it!!"
John M.commented onMike Risinger... "Hey Mike do you remember talking to your parents about the great depression? I was not interested in listening to the stories back then but I wish my old man was still alive so I could listen to them now. I hope you get the break you deserve. God Bless you Mike and thanks for sharing your story."
Peter Johansencommented onSheila Bliven... "Sheila, many are in the same situation and worse. Out of work since 08/2007. A short Census gig helped a little. Been through the disaster and the storm. Luckily, found some SNAP or nutrition to get by. The SNAP centers are more crowded than the career centers. There exists too many forces that are against us. Thus, take one day at a time, hope for the best, and get some rest or follow your cat's advice."
Patriciacommented onRick Barrett... "You are an inspiration to me, and I thank you for your honest and heartfelt thoughts. I believe you will make it, and do well. Never give up."
Ellen Turnercommented onKenny Moore, aka Kenny the Monk... "Very wise words, is this gentleman out of work? The only time I heard him talk about himself is dealing with the CEO of a corporation and this gentleman's illnesses...nothing about losing a job."
Janecommented onJoe Magnone... "Joe, you're my hero. You explained the situation of the millions of unemployed in a way that truly zeroes in on the reality of the situation. Thank you."
VERONICA GERMANcommented onKathleen Smith... "If the national black American unemployment rate is 16.7% then it is at least 50% among the baby boomers.
Unemployment among black citizens over 50 years of age is the worst in history and there has been no enforcement of age discrimination laws. I have associates who have lost their jobs since 2006 and not one of them has received a full time position of any kind regardless of credentials. Many people that I know between the ages of 50 and 70 regardless of personal heritage have mortgaged their home or borrowed money from other sources to improve their skills or to get another degree. We actually speak to each other before 6:00 AM because many of us get up in the wee hours seeking work and hoping for temporary placement reporting by 8:00 AM. Going into debt to further education has proven to be a high risk gamble resulting in further unemployment and mounting debt for black Americans. Many feel they are in too much debt now for start up costs for new business. Most unable to get fur" Read the rest »
Jennifer Russellcommented onMary Sironen... "I too have had big age discrimination in employment since I turned 50. Not cute enough anymore. Sickening. I had to look at plenty of not too cute people when I was a bartender."
Diane Tomlinsoncommented onJoe Magnone... "Joe, I am from Steubenville and now in Indiana. My did worked at Weirton Steel 39 years and retired in 1976, I thank you for your story. Life was good in the 50's and 60's when I was growing up. About all of the neighborhood men and my parents' friends worked in the mill and had good livings. I still remember all the graphite dust all over the windows giving everything that "orange glow" and everyone feeling it was ok because it was "pay dirt". It is a total shame what has happened to the steel industry in this country."
Deecommented onKevin Lincoln... "Amen brother. I'm in the same age group and know all too well a person can't go back to school, relocate in this housing market or get financing to start a service business."
Blake Southwoodcommented onStephen Murphy... "I agree about the age discrimination. I've applied to more than 6,000 jobs and I can't even get an interview and I've worked for billion dollar companies my whole life before I was laid off."
Kevin Morgancommented onPatrick O’Donnell... "Hi Patrick, I was terminated, but with generous severance, and found I had an aortic aneurysm all in one week. So, I got on with my life, including blogging to deal with fear of the stent (http://athletewithstent.com) and I am following the advice in 'The Four Hour Workweek,' by Tim Ferriss. You have a lot to offer, so work out what it is and bust a gut doing it, but it must be fun. -k @FitOldDog"
Stacey Monroecommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Video: Weirton, West Virginia... "I agree with Diane Magnone, We shouldn't be stereotyped with that style of music. But the fact is that the only way to make Weirton better is change. People don't like change. I come home every year to the same thing. I like the direction the Mayor is trying to go in. Let's make our town something again...."
Kansas Citycommented onDaddy's Story, contributed by Monica Hollen... "Your father is a lucky man to have such a caring daughter. And you are lucky to have him as a role model of resilience, positivity and strength. Here's wishing him -- and your entire family -- a healthy, prosperous future. Take care!"
george vacheressecommented onFrank Pope... "thats evryones story thoght mill last forever.my Dad had 40 somethin yrs in,he retired,and 1 month before he died he lost all his pension and benefits they had. i think his worrying and disappointment of all of that transpired caused his death.he always told me if yo took care of your job it would take care of you??????"
Jamescommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "When there's not enough jobs to go around and the government is still rewarding entrepreneurs with tax deductions, it only makes sense to look at business opportunities. The 40-year plan is broken. People who should be retiring are still working. The retirement age is increasing. Being in business offers so many opportunities besides income. There are more people on food stamps now than ever before. "Today SNAP released the most recent food stamp numbers. Not surprisingly, we just saw another all time high 44.2 million poverty-level Americans relying on government funding for day to day sustenance." Even people who are able to find work have a difficult time making ends meet. A full time or part time business is a great way to make additional money, save money on taxes, and regain control over your life. Get out there and make it happen!"
Peter Johansencommented onBarbara Dixon... "Instead of being retired, call the name in transition. Hence, we are always in transition and retired refers to extinction as in "Logan's Run." In any event, good luck."
Sandy H. Millercommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "Hello: Anyone have any new business ideas? I have time, lots of energy and experience in researching, developing, launching and running a national business doing sales of 1-7 million per year gross reveune. We need to share our strength, hope and limited funds to get something going! Are there any "like minded" people out there?? I would love to hear from you. Come on folks we are NOT getting any younger!! I hope some of you will contact me. Best regards, SHM"
Peter Johansencommented onLaurie McCann... "I filed a number of cases of discrimmination with the EEOC. One case particular was the employer, who refused to show up for an interview after completing an application and setting a time frame. On the EEOC compalint, I used age as a more obvious selection. Besides, I gave the employer an opportunity to schedule another interview, where I could bring in my qualifications. Mind you this position did not pay very well. In any event, after an EEOC review of the documents, EEOC ruled that employers can be as arrogant as possible. I responded by stating, "I presumed age however there are other possibilities such as race or nationality." In other words, the employer may be biased were one was born or the color of skin."
Vickicommented onProfessor Andrew Sum, Director of the Center for Labor Market Studies at Northeastern University... "The documentary was great. It is terrible with happened to Weirton Steel. My whole family worked there at one time or another. I didn't get in so I am still working in the field I chose. WSX strated going down years ago - it wasn't all the goverment (but our govt. including the state officials didn't help us much. My father retired when the employees bought it out - on a pension that was terrible for how many years he worked there. Then they hired all these executives - or what ever you want to call them, gave them huge salaries = more than the president of the United States, they would stay awhile and then they would get huge packages that the mill would pay to then for how ever many years was agreed on. The poor working man in the mill was the ones that got screwed and lost their pensions and jobs -- at young ages (50 or above) and had to go into different fields and collect unemployment for how ever long they could get it and try to find new jobs to support their families and t" Read the rest »
Peter Johansencommented onAlbert Yasbick... "Dave, you are not alone. There exists millions in similar situation. Furthermore, when discussion age discrimmination with an attorney, age discrimminations falls on deaf ears."
Ellen Turnercommented onMichael McClatchey... "Michael is doing better than most of us. He can collect early SS. I cannot afford health insurance, as a single woman of 63..it would cost me $250/mth with a 5k deductible. My skillselt has been outsourced to foriegn soils. I live in Florida, where there isn't any jobs in my field. Also, do not forget...companies do not hire older Americans, mainly because of the health insurance rates."
Kevincommented onJerome Williams... "Why am i seeing alot of IT people on these videos? I thought information technology was one of the jobs of the 21st century Bush was talking about...What BS....Had alot of manufacturing people get retrained in IT as they advised and they got thrown under the bus again."
Pigbitin Madcommented onSteve Borton... "No Mr. Bond, they expect us to die [they being our Tea Bag controlled government] . That way, we will not reach 62 and the rich can confiscate our social security. You don't think they really want to let us have that money to live in a hut in Uganda do you?"
TCcommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "The current situation is really starting to wear me out. I don't even have enough hope left to look for a job anymore. I've been unemployed since 3/31/10, the longest time that I've gone without some type of job since high school. If I get the full extension of 99 weeks, that's it and that's all. No more income. I live in IL and the state has just passed a resolution that will only allow people who become unemployed to obtain a maximum of 26 weeks in benefits. I believe that there is a time coming and not too far off, when we will have riots in the streets, like Greece and London. The so-called deal that Congress came up with before they trotted out to enjoy their American taxes paid 5 weeks vacation, didn't even mention the 99'ers or for that matter, unemployment at all, with the exception of giving tax credits to companies that hire Veterans. Great, except companies that are experiencing record earnings are laying current employees off to increase their earnings spread. I really don" Read the rest »
Jamescommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Intro... "You've done a thorough job of documenting the current situation. It's important for people to understand the reality in order to explore their viable options. It's time we all wake up and realize things have changed. Change requires new approaches."
Richard Coxcommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Intro... "The only way to lower taxes in reality - PROPOSED: Economic regulative legislation to ease domestic job issues, reduce the deficit and the Social Security shortfall (Pro Jobs Legislation)...
In response to solicitations for revenue that generates jobs (e.g. Face the Nation on CBS) here is another source of revenue other than direct taxation we need to use which no one seems to want to talk about, described at http://www.congress.org/soapbox/alert/51246501 and at http://www.rncox.newsvine.com.
I've communicated my ideas about this already, re shipping our jobs overseas being at the root of many of our deficit problems. The only way to lower taxes in reality is to increase the overall tax base. GE's recent action reported on CNN (www.cnn.com/caffertyfile), moving their X-Ray business to China, is just another instance of the reason for this proposal.
Richard N. Cox
105 Front Street
Weirton, WV 26062-4220
eMail: rncox@access995.com (preferred met" Read the rest »
Richard Coxcommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Intro... "Ms. Standardi,
Tell them we are still trying to get new things in Weirton, such as the plasma gasification tech I'd proposed back in 2003, point them to my web pages. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Recycling-and-Power-Facilities-RPFs/347616143827, and http://www.rncox.newsvine.com.
Weirton has all of the things that made a mill work here, ready access to road, river and rail for moving raw materials in and finished products out, and would be a great place for a refinery making methanol, ethanol and biodiesel out of coal, municipal and industrial waste streams, regardless of the specific technology used.
Thank You,
Richard N. Cox
105 Front Street
Weirton, WV 26062-4220
eMail: rncox@access995.com (preferred method of contact)
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/11/75/829 <= my professional profile
Independent member, WV Senator Manchin's Project Weirton task group (http://www.wtov9.com/news/5484507/detail.html)
Web page: http://www.facebook.com/p" Read the rest »
Suecommented onOlder Workers: No Longer Needed?... "Thanks for your support, Jim. Good to hear from you! Congratulations on your success in helping people who are 50+ find jobs."
Jim Wall "The Career Doctor"commented onOlder Workers: No Longer Needed?... "Kudos to the producers … This is a great documentation and when they came to Southwest Florida we were not sure what to expect. The stories here are real-life and compelling. Some good news out of SWFL is many of the individual’s features in the documentation have found job. To all, keep plugging away and all the best!"
Tony Estradacommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "I guess a big riot in the streets of all USA is what we need in order to tell the WH and the Congress that, we the 99ers are still us citizen,that we need to support our families and need to pat our debts too,no only the rich and millionaires have the right to live comfortable.As a person in my 61 I don't think that I have any chance to get a job,is sad to became a homeless with no source of money and waiting for our government to do something to help us to survive.Foreing countries and banks have more luck of to be help by USA than their own people.My last check from UI was in March 2010 and since then I don't have any source of income, I was lloking for jobs all over USA and in a foreing country,with no results.So America need to wake up to this situation,I think that we are too comfortable with what is happens in the nation right now,we need to act,no just seating in front of the tv and watch what is happens here we our economy.They try to cut the Social Security wich is the only re" Read the rest »
Jeffrey Koconiscommented onOne unemployed older American's miserable mortgage refinance saga... "I appreciate your thoughtful comments, I have found harboring ill-will doesn't suit me, or help me pursue my future, which I now embrace with the excitement of a child again. My best to all who have suffered from this all too real, and continuing depression, I choose to be thankful for what I have, and can still be, I hope you can too. There's still so much to do, and the time is short."
beth zagoriacommented onRobert King... "My words exactly......but let's try to see this as an opportunity and never, ever give up.....Good luck my friend"
Sandy H. Millercommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "What are WE all going to do? Will it come to riots in the streets? If your head is not up your ass you must be quite worried and freaked out like I am... There is simply NO answer. If the WH doesn't have one who does? Sick of it but have no where to go! Pissed in LA ~ Any ideas?"
Diana Magnonecommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Video: Weirton, West Virginia... "I really appreciate doing this documentary, and my brother is featured. But. What's up with the banjo-playing introduction? Every time someone does a documentary about WV (Coal mines, the Wild Wonderful Whites, the Point Pleasant bridge collapse) it's always got that stupid banjo intro! how often have any of us really listened to people sitting on their porches pickin banjos in Weirton? I absolutely hate the stereotyping."
Charlescommented onExpert advice on how to become an older enterpreneur... "Hello Mr. Williams,
Appreciated the post about how to become an older entreprenuer. Have you thought about 'legitimate' networking opportunities? Not the constant array of scam's that people are running these days, but 'legitimate' companies like Mary Kay, and others that have been successful for many, many years. The start up cost and risks are a lot less than risking ones' savings with franchises and the like and the joy of helping others instead of just yourself is a blessing as well. Thanks, keep up the good work. Charles"
K. Rostadcommented onOne unemployed older American's miserable mortgage refinance saga... "Jeffrey, I am very sorry to read of the problems you are facing. I also checked out about refinancing in 2005, when my husband's unemployment was nearly gone and was told that we had to have a certain level of income to refinance even with good credit history. My substitute teaching pay wasn't enough to qualify for a refinance without my husband's former income. After some research, I found that the banks can't loan to people with certain levels of earnings to credit ratios or the banks eventually go under themselves. They are audited and might become one of the many banks that get listed each Friday as closed due to inadequate debt to asset ratios. I also felt betrayed by the bank to which we had been so faithful in making payments. We then sold our home and built smaller in a less expensive area doing ALL the work ourselves using discounted building supplies. One of our children and family are building a mini home on a trailer bed paying cash for all parts to avoid having a mo" Read the rest »
Ann @ Creative Boomercommented onExpert advice on how to become an older enterpreneur... "As someone who (*knock on wood*) is still working in a corporate job, I'm feeling the insecurity of it. I'm in the beginning stages of starting an online business. And your points of what you need to think about are right on target."
Suecommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Video: Weirton, West Virginia... "Thank you, JKL, for your comment. Weirton's story is complex and evolving, and it's good to read about the start of its rebirth, which we hope to experience for ourselves next week. When we make our full-length documentary, it will be about the United States, not just Weirton, and it will also include the positive outcomes that some older jobseekers have been able to create for themselves. Stay tuned!"
JKLcommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Video: Weirton, West Virginia... "Look around, everything is made in China/Korea/India and on and on, except our own USA. All the outsourcing/call centers are going abroad. Why does it come as a surprise that our millions are unemployed. What do we do? I asked a public official " Why are all the jobs going abroad?" His answer was " Simple, labor is cheaper there " I answered " If we could, we would outsource you also, we can get 10 for the price of one we support here. How would you like that ". There was silence. Many countries impose tarrifs on foreign good to the tune of 100 to 300 percent. They insist that to be able to do business with them, manufacturing has to be done there. How can we compete? By playing the same game. The companies would rather see their next quarter look good as the country goes down the tube. It seems that each company is working in vacuum, not realizing that one by one all manufacturing will go abroad, and there will be no buyers left here. China is too happy to lend us money because even" Read the rest »
Suecommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Video: Weirton, West Virginia... "Thank you, Joni. We're headed back to Weirton next week to do more shooting for a full-length documentary. Weirton is a special place with fascinating people. We're eager to get back there."
Joni Liebelcommented onOver 50 and Out of Work Video: Weirton, West Virginia... "Weirton is 30 min. from where I grew up. Getting a job in a steel mill was a great career path for my father's generation & also for my generation. My father lost his steel mill job forever when he was 60 years old (late 1970's). Another generation in this area tells the same story.. which isn't any different from manufacturing workers in any other part of the US. Very well done documentary in the making. I look forward to your future videos. Blessings, Joni"
HealthyStealthycommented onMike Risinger... "Please don't say your wife and children don't love you... I am sure at least your kids love you. I feel your pain. I will be 51 in a few weeks and I have been out of work since 2009. I have been on dozens and dozens of interviews but no one will hire me! I was clearly suited for many of the positions I applied for. I guess I am experiencing age discrimination. And now I don't I don't know where to go or what to do. Do I retrain? I am not sure. Good luck to you. I wish you the best."
larrycommented onOlder Workers: No Longer Needed?... "I have just turned 50 and have been unemployed since 2009. I have been on at least 30 interviews. I have no income coming in which gets old fast. I am very disappointed."
B-radcommented onOlder Workers: No Longer Needed?... "Yeah...this is so unfair. My friend in this boat didn't even want to live anymore when suppossed to be happy in retirement. Lucky for him he found something...."
Tony Estradacommented onOlder Workers: No Longer Needed?... "Now I'm just about to get retired,in April 2012 is when I have to apply,cuz my B.D. is in July and I will be 62.Those will be the longest 10 months that I have to wait in my life.Other thing is that with my money I can't live in USA,so I will have to moved to Colombia or Peru where the money worth and I can live with decense and happiness."
Tony Estradacommented onOlder Workers: No Longer Needed?... "Yes is a disgrace that a person on his 50's loose his job,got sick and is turned down every time I applied for a job.Now I'm 61 lost my job in 2008 as a Lowe's employee due to a cancer,now I'm doing ok, but I can't find a job cuz of my age and my health history.I tried to get my retirement,but the person in SS office told me,you are too young to retire but too old to get a job,wich I guess she was right.I became a 99er in March 2010 and since then I don't have any income,so I became a homeless,lost my car, apartment and my friends,noy even your family wants to take you if you don't have at least one source of income.I never realize that I will be on my 60's without any job,I always thought that when I retired it will be with dignity,but now I feel like a piece of shit,a person that nobody wants to have around cuz you will be a problem for them....this is my sad reality."
Susan Hawkinscommented onOne unemployed older American's miserable mortgage refinance saga... "I sympathize w/ you. I am in the same predicament never been unemployed in my life I am 59 and having difficulty procuring a new job. I truly believe it is age discrimination! I am at a loss as to my situation. BOA lost my refinance paperwork three different times charged me penalties for being late with my mortgage, added the penalties totalling $20,000.00 to my mortgage. I am totally disgusted w/ them."
Pigbitin Madcommented onUnderemployment: A no-win struggle for older workers... "What I find to be especially infuriating is that I know more about office software than most 20 year olds. Yet most companies will only hire recent grads. The government has got to have a policy of only hiring over 50. They are the only people who will do it as the scumbugs in private industry won't. We're lucky if they even do any hiring in this country. They should be thrown out of the country if they outsuorce....and anything coming in should be taxed 500% to make sure that no one can afford to buy it."
Alicia Carrcommented onMarie Spalding... "Like Marie, I looked after two ill parents for about a decade, and now that I've been looking actively for work for the last three years....the few jobs that are out there, always seem to go to someone else. At present, I'm at or near the top of the list for 3 municipal jobs, but I keep getting told that there's no funding for the jobs. In the next two weeks, I plan to take 2 more tests, hoping for the best. I admit that I have to borrow from a relative, just to get by. Sadly, no one seems to know or care, that looking after sick family members, is no picnic in the park. I wish you the best of luck in your job search, Marie; hoping your dream job is yours VERY soon."
Lane Zanecommented onUnderemployment: A no-win struggle for older workers... "I work as a volunteer for AARP and the number 1 reason older workers say they have not been able to find a job...age discrimination. 1 in 5 who are unemployed are over 50. I know I've experienced this myself and it is a huge problem. Also a lot of people have medical problems and this is a factor as well. I know people who take part time jobs (if they can even find those) if they can't find full time work. 1 in 7 families are now on food stamps."
businesscommented onOver 50 Testifying before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions... "........At a time when weve got some of the greatest income disparity in the United States since the Gilded Age Villager David Brooks thinks were not going to be able to solve the problem with our deficit unless seniors and the middle class are ready for some shared sacrifice. Which in Villager speak means fixing those problems on the hides of those who can afford it least while the rich keep their tax breaks..Brooks does agree that we need to raise taxes on the rich to some degree but of course qualifies that with the typical talking point that no matter how high their taxes were raised it would not fix the deficit problem..And like every other Republican out there he pretends our Congress would ever actually vote to close the tax loopholes for the rich and not just end up sticking it to the middle class instead in the name of fiscal responsibility while their big money donors keep their deductions in place..I would love to see David Brooks have to spend a few days in some senior citi" Read the rest »
business reviewcommented onOver 50 Testifying before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions... "During the past generation the American middle-class family that once could count on hard work and fair play to keep itself financially secure has been transformed by economic risk and new realities. Rocked by rising prices for essentials as mens wages remained flat both Dad and Mom have entered the workforcea strategy that has left them working harder just to try to break even. Even with two paychecks family finances are stretched so tightly that a very small misstep can leave them in crisis."
Sandy H. Millercommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "Hi Kelly:
Thanks for your note. Please tell me more ~ contact information, website/URL, corporate name, company history and who the executive officers are so I can investigate and determine IF it is something I would be interested in and a venture that I could share my experience with and make a positive impact. Please NO MLMs (Multi-level Marketing) business concepts or PONZI deals!! Thanks -"
Richard Tanenbaumcommented onOver 50 will testify before the Senate HELP committee ... "One solution for out of work homeowners is to lower the age of eligibility for "reverse" mortgages to 50 or 55. Then older folks could tap into their homes equity to pay off the existing mortgage, relieve the burden of ever making a mortgage payment (unless they refi in the future), and possibly give them some cash in hand each month. Since the official name is "home equity conversion mortgage", you need some equity to convert to present money. However, if a home is underwater, or doesn't qualify for an amount sufficient to pay off present financing, then the bank either has to take a "short refinance", somewhat similar to a short sale, or the bankers need to create an equity sharing instrument so that what the bank can't get now, they can get when the house is sold or at upon some agreed event. I'm sure smart bankers can figure out an instrument that would work. Another huge game changer would be for FNMA to allow short refi's. Currently FNMA will not accept reductions in princi" Read the rest »
Kellycommented onCheck out our latest user-submitted video!... "Sandy,
I am sorry to hear about your situation. I have marketing and promotion business marketing a unique service and am looking for someone to come on board to help me. This is service helps people across the US and Canada and is provided by a NYSE change company. Please let me know if this might interest you."
Marycommented onMike Risinger... "Sorry Mike, I've been out of work for 3 years now, my skills are not outdated! I'm just 55 years old. God Bless you and your family, unfortunately in todays world I think kids who want to go to college need to work for it and not depend on the parents. Not being mean just reality."
Marycommented onThe Great Recession Continues for Unemployed Boomers... "Ok, so you tracked these stories and trackd their success or not successes...ummm...what good is it, try being over 50 and out of work for 3 years! Yes there is a BIG problem out there for "mature" workers and all of us just talk about it, lets fight, lets walk right up to the white house and ask WHY isn't someone doing something about this crap??? They say we cost them more, how? Seems to me it would be less cost in training! They say they would have to pay us more, well let us make that decision, not you! Sick of this whole thing, someone made the comment we should make the "Over 50 Party". I'm game!!"
MaryKay Coynecommented onOver 50 will testify before the Senate HELP committee ... "Thank you so much for doing this. People do not realize this is happening everywhere. Workers over 50 had good jobs that they did well prior to 2008. Why would they not be responsible, valuable employees now? They would be, they just can't afford to work part time for 7.50 an hour unless they are subsidized by the Government. We want to be free of all benefits and return to a "reasonably paid" full time position, working hard and making enough to live on for our families without needing a helping hand from State Government."
Richard Allencommented onOver 50 will testify before the Senate HELP committee ... "My plan for getting America back to work:
#1 Make being an :intern: subject to Equal Opportunity and age
discrimination laws.
No Kidding why should someone older be told they are OVERQUALIFIED?
That is just mean and nasty to someone willing to work for little or
no pay to keep a recent job in their field at the top of their resume.
#2 Eliminate all extended unemployment after 26 weeks UNLESS you are
in an Intern job or in job training. Again if some employer tells
me I am TOO OLD to be an intern well the UI office can make it hard
for them to do business.
#3 Quit being NASTY and demanding welfare recipients find
work.........again no kidding From personal experience the NYC back
to work programs are an incredible waste of taxpayers money....Rude
nasty very little if any help. It is a Boondoggle and the only people
who they serve are Goodwill Arbor Fegs employees by getting paid every
two weeks.
What to do to sound tough on getting government " Read the rest »
Steve Tilsoncommented onOver 50 will testify before the Senate HELP committee ... "They don't care. If they cared they could make it a capital crime for any CEO's company to discriminate on age. But they don't care at all. If the people in congress cared they would long ago have made it a crime to discriminate. But the health insurance companies rule the day. Money rules all."
sybillecommented onBob Delpizzo... "Unfortunately (or fortunately), I am a 99er. Not by choice, mind you. Lay off's occurred and our center being shut down. Although I consider myself fortunate since I was 62 when this happened. I did not want to retire and would have liked to have worked until 66. I managed a medical records department, working as a transcriptionist as well as creating medical charts. Multi-tasking to the max. Do I think I will get another job. Deep down - no. But still trying. No doubt to the ire of the 2011 grads, both high school and college. Oh well...I may be a "baby boomer" but in my heart I know I bring experience and loyalty to any employment area."
Deborahcommented onDeborah Salim... "Thank you Tim for those kind words. They were very encouraging to my spirit. I have learned to be content in whatever state I find myself (according to the Bible). How I manage to keep control of my situation is to trust and depend upon God for He promised to supply all of my needs and He has thus far. We often worry about things we have no control over and make our situation worse when our health fail due to all of the stress. I am learning how to stress less and trust more in the Almighty God who is able to keep me (us) from falling and present us faultless before His throne with exceeding joy. Put your trust in God and obey His Word and everything will work together for your good because He loves you. Take care!"
mike rcommented onCheryl Cheney... "This lady has it going. How she can remain uber-positive in the face of this current economic climate is a testimony to her inner strength. Cheryl, you will land on your feet. Of that I am certain!"
P. Edward Murraycommented onBob Delpizzo... "Transition may be permanent but time waits for no man or woman. What many of us fear is time because we are so close to that "magic" retirement age. Sorry but I'm not willing to "have to" change jobs...whenever I get hired...several times before 65. Retirement for me, at the moment, is a 4 letter word because I will never have...unless I win the lottery...enough money to retire:( And I have a strong feeling that quite a number of folks are in the same boat!"
P. Edward Murraycommented onBob Delpizzo... "Yes, we are or rather were, defined by our vocations and achievement along the lines of excellence. We grew up with that sense of "Norman Rockwell American Values" with guidance that if we study hard, go to college and graduate we then would be rewarded with being able to find a good job. All of these things have apparently changed now and are "so yesterday". The question remains as to what they are changed too?"
Shallie Bey (Smarter Small Business Blog)commented onDavid Mathison... "This was a very inspiring post. I think that the concept of empowering people to share their gifts is important. In my own work, I attempt to encourage people to start businesses with their skills. However, not everyone wants to go through the effort to start a business, they just want to share. This short post provides great thoughts on how to do that. It also points us to what sounds like a book that will have many more valuable insights."
Dianecommented onDeborah Shane... "That is an interesting interview, although it made me a bit uncomfortable to hear her make comments about baby boomers "not knowing how to download a file". As a baby boomer with great computer skills, I'd rather not have this type of mythology (baby boomers don't know which end of the computer to use) promulgated. There's enough negative generalizations out there already."
P. Edward Murraycommented onOver 50 and Out of Work reaches out to governors, senators and representatives... "I remember Senator Inouye from The Watergate Hearings.
We called him "Senator "Ain't no way" because he wasn't going to stand for the baloney!
I think being "Middle aged" is just a state of mine or a phrase. Many of my buddies from high school and college who are my age are talking about being older Americans.
We reach a "certain" point in time,different for each individual where our bodies start to differe with our brains.
Our minds are still 25 ish and then all of a sudden we aren't anymore as those aches and pains start to appear:)"
Helen Shultz-Kamadulskicommented onOver 50 and Out of Work reaches out to governors, senators and representatives... "No surprise to me that those are the extent of the responses you've gotten. I've been contacting my Senators and Reps and attempting, unsuccessfully, to contact Senators and Reps in other states regarding the unemployment situation(for all ages), the lack of consequences for the crooked banks, and on a variety of other topics all pertinent to our decimated economy. I, and many other unemployed like me, have attempted to make our voices heard through emails, phone calls, twitters....They really don't seem to be listening and, unfortunately, the feeling a lot of us are getting is that we, the unemployed(especially the unemployed in their 40s and 50s and older) are expendable. We are simply collateral damage. It's absolutely shameful how willing those in power are to ignore this huge and growing bigger daily, problem."
John Wellscommented onOver 50 and Out of Work reaches out to governors, senators and representatives... "The employment discrimination in the country is at an all time high and needs to be fixed period. We need to live just like everyone else, and it's very hard to do when salaries are going down 20K to 30K or more and prices are going through the roof. Our water fees are going up 7.5% in Queens, NY - (NOT SALARIES)...!!!!!...What's wrong with this picture??????"
Suecommented onOver 50 and Out of Work reaches out to governors, senators and representatives... "Great ideas, Diane!
Here is the description that we pasted in to the contact forms:
For the past year, we have been traveling across the United States conducting video interviews with Americans who are Over 50 and Out of Work at http://www.overfiftyandoutofwork.com/
We would invite you to add your Comments to our multimedia documentary project.
In the Great Recession, older Americans are unemployed at record rates and for longer periods of time than ever before. Over the past 10 years, many boomers have also seen the value of their homes and savings decline precipitously, and they have less time than younger workers to recoup their losses and regain financial equilibrium. Moreover, they face a daunting uphill battle against age discrimination and a bias directed against the unemployed when they seek new jobs.
Please take a look at the stories we have documented – together, they forge a remarkable American geographic and socioeconomic mosaic. We currently have 75 i" Read the rest »
Dianecommented onOver 50 and Out of Work reaches out to governors, senators and representatives... "Do you have a "template" that you used to contact the people, such as a form letter, that others could use? Also, I am wondering is there is a way to have a database of all the pertinent people in one place that others could use. For instance, if I found all the Pennsylvania representatives, I could put their emails or websites in a database, and other people could find it. And I want to say to the honorable Mr. Inouye, Dude, I'm not elderly!"
Dianecommented onOlder Entrepreneurs: Olive Lynch... "What a wonderful idea! I'm super-impressed. Best of luck to you. (BTW, I studied to be an opera singer, and then went on to work in a bank for a couple of decades.)"
MKcommented onElizabeth Zima... "Dear Over-50 people,
What is wrong is that the US lacks any industrial policy worth a damn. What is also wrong is that we have banksters running and ruining everything. I have covered a few of the policies that have brought us to this point. Please do not think that because I mention Obama, that I am leaving out bad policies made by Bush and Clinton both. There have been bad decisions made about the economy since the 1970s. In the interest of brevity, I am only covering the last 30 years or so.
What is really sad about the current situation is that quietly, behind the scenes, there are a lot of cheerleaders for 'THE FREE MARKET" who are gently recommending Keynesian economics again. Their problem is how to push that without admitting that they took this country on an adventure through "discredited economics 101" for the third or fourth time. That's right. We tried these same stupid policies in the past and they resulted in Depressions every time. How do I know this? I " Read the rest »
Angela Simoescommented onMike Risinger... "Mike, Autodesk has a program for unemployed designers and architects - the Autodesk Assistance Program. Go to this website: www.autodesk.com/assistanceprogram, sign up and you can start downloading software for free. It will get you a 3-year student license that you can use to brush up on your 3D skills. The site also includes a ton of videos and tutorials to help get you started. I hope this helps. We did a survey of the program participants last year, and 75% of them said that when they go for job interviews, technology proficiency is the second most important thing employers are looking for, second only to years of experience. Best of luck to you, and please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or need anything else.
Best,
Angela"
spinottercommented onMike Risinger... "I would venture to guess that Mike never expected, when he volunteered for this video, to become the headline story on the Huffington Post! Mike, if you're reading these comments, I would like to say how much I admire you for being human and showing us how unemployment has affected your life and that of your family. If you read some of the negative comments on HuffPo, just remember that for every heartless person who sits at his/her computer taking potshots at the world, there are many of us who are just like you - who are feeling the same doubts and pain you are. We never expected to be treated like the line items on a profit or loss statement. Something is very wrong with our country when so many millions of people have worked their whole lives and raised families only to encounter the suffering and despair of joblessness so close to the time when they might have expected to continue working in a career spanning several decades, to see their children able to attend college, and t" Read the rest »
Mo Jcommented onMike Risinger... "Someone on Huffington Post posted this message and I thought it might help...
Posted by
Angela Simoes
This post is specifically for Mike Risinger if anyone knows how to reach him. The Autodesk Assistance Program provides free software to designers and architects who are out of work. This is a great way for him to learn the 3D CAD skills that the companies are looking for and make himself attractive to employers again. Just go to this website and sign up: www.autodesk.com/assistanceprogram. Hope this helps.
I hope this helps too, over 40 here and out of work myself... Mo"
Muffycommented onMichael McClatchey... "If I were this person, I would start helping people out with their computers.
I continually have problems with my computer; when I have bigger issues, I would love to have someone to call that's not going to charge me through the nose."
Albert H. Parkercommented onDr. Carl Van Horn... "I am in an architecture-related profession in the Cleveland area. I am told that our unemployment is around 60%, and is not likely to recover for at least ten years or longer. I am 63 years and was forced to start Social Securiity to pay mortgage. Live-in girlfriend works one full-time and one part-time jobs, and has been unsympathetic that I can not just go out and find another job, although I have tried. This has been devastating in our lives, and I see no way to improve the situation. Your discussion confirms the situation that so many of us find ourselves in after lifetimes of productivity (I starting working when I was 12)."
Susan Glovercommented onElizabeth Zima... "My boyfriend and I are 99ers and homeless. We were laid off in August 2008. We are living in our car. Family has turned its back on us and friends help when they can. I'm physically, mentality and emotionally exhausted! Don't know how much longer we can sleep in our car."
Dave Baumgardnercommented onAlbert Yasbick... "I have been unemployed since June 2009. I had a job at a call center for AT&T and after being there for a year I received a 9 cent an hour raise. Two weeks later I was fired! Unbelieveable, I thought maybe this would be my final job until Social Security kicked in. Boy was I wrong. Now I am looking at my last month of unemployment benefits (yes, the place where I worked did not even fight my claim!) I have applied everywhere online and here in town. The veteran's rep. cannot even give me a decent lead on a job in this town. My wife and I have been homeless before and believe me we do NOT want to go back to that terrible situation! No one can even imagine what that is like unless they have been themselves. I am seeing a counselor at the Veteran's Outpatient clinic for depression and stress. Drugs cannot help me get a job and they seem to be useless as I have been on them so long. We can spend tons of money to help Libya, Afghanistan and every other country but not to help people who" Read the rest »
Lorraine Campmancommented onOlder Entrepreneurs: Lorraine Campman... "If you’re an adult who dreams of playing the piano, organ or keyboard, Music Oasis gives you the chance to:
• Master familiar songs in weeks instead of months.
• Learn simple building blocks for achieving fast results.
• Discover easy-to-read music.
• Unlock your creative spirit.
Discover a new way to learn, and insights from 30 years of piano-teaching experience.
I am currently offering my daytime program through a local park and recreation department, senior centers and retirement communities. It’s more than piano lessons, because the focus is on the recreational side of music. We sing “oldies”, learn the story behind the songs, then play them on the piano. We learn simple techniques to improvise on piano joined by ethnic and percussion instruments. We socialize and have fun learning a new skill or brushing up on an old one, playing the piano!
88 Keys to Musical Fun!!™
Contact us at musicoasis@hotmail.com"
K. Rostadcommented onSheila Cooper... "Dear Sheila, I will pray for you and your family to recover from these job losses. You seem to have a dear spirit and a lovely personality. If you lived near me, I'd invite you over for a cup of tea. It shocks me that so many nice, hardworking people are suffering from job loss right now. My husband and I have been through a corporate down-sizing and understand what you are going through. Moving to a smaller home in the country helped us cut down on our costs. Many unexpected blessings have come our way in the 8 years since my husband was laid off including two part time jobs for me that each lasted two years. I hope good things like that will happen for you also. I also hope you have help with your health insurance somehow. God bless you. - K. Rostad"
Tim Carmellcommented onDeborah Salim... "I wish to say how touched I was by Deborah's interview. There is a woman who sees life clearly and isn't making any excuses, who's reinventing herself and at the same time being foreclosed on. If Deborah can't have some job security after fifteen years in the same job, who can? We are destroying the lives of so many people and sometimes I wonder if it is a plan to impoverish us all and have a nation of peasants, or if it's simply bad judgement on the part of our government and corporations. It certainly isn't Deborah's fault - you can see that the minute she begins speaking. If Deborah reads this, I want to tell you that I love the person you are and wish you the very VERY best in your search for a job."
K. Rostadcommented onElizabeth Zima... "I am so sorry for what you are going through. There can be nothing as frustrating as being downsized. The stress of not having money coming in can be unbelievable. We watched 20,000 other people lose their jobs at the same company over a 20 year period before my husband was laid off. The company first changed health insurance, then cut back vacation length and carry over into the next year. Then it canceled standard retirement plans and went to 401K's. Meanwhile it hired temporaries to maximize profits. Following that, my husband was told by his new boss that two people coming out of college could be hired for what he was earning. He had 25 years of continuous education totaling more than 100 classes in his field, in addition to his two degrees. We were later told that the same boss was wondering where the computer programmer went. I guess because it wasn't in the job title, the boss didn't know that my husband did that for them on the side, in addition to understanding how to " Read the rest »
Pat S.commented onThree more video interviews added -- we have over 70 stories online... "This is a great service, thank you. How can we find out more about your organization? Is it a nonprofit? Is it also called Over Fifty and Out of Work, or something else? Where is it located? How is it funded? Etc.
Also, is there any way to reach you via ordinary email, or by a simpler contact form. I would like to contact you privately (i.e., not in a public comment or on your FB page) for reasons other than putting my story on your site, but the only contact option on the site is the contact form for submitting a personal story.
thanks,
Pat"
linda turnercommented onJoel Nitzberg... "Hi,
You have latched on to a real idea, ie "co-operative housing. I am turning 63 the end of the month, a boomer, and am part of the trail blazering generation who lived in "communes", although I never did so myself. I have been facinated by the idea, ala "kibbutzes".
For those who need it, I believe "pooling resources" , ie housing and transportation for our generation is a coming necessity. Many of us do not have children, or have children who live all over the world. Bartering, co-ops, etc is the wave of the future, I believe, but do something before you have no assets left to do it with.
Good luck to you and yours,"
linda turnercommented onKen Wadland... "Hi,
I am systematically reading through everyone's story, but yours strikes me as outstanding.
You are a "problem" solver in that you seem to be able to access any situation and proceed from there, especially in your personal life.
I do have one suggestion, which I also give to my husband, who is 64 and still working, thank God........shave the grey part of your beard. Unless you want to work with the Amish, you would appear younger without it. Your thinking process is that of a much younger person, and I feel you handicap yourself by keeping the grey part.
Please take this critique in the spirit with which it is given.....and Good Luck !
This "advice" is given to you with the best of wishes, and hopes for your future. You will be an asset to anyone who employs you."
Denise Krivitskycommented onLaurie McCann... "I filed a lawsuit against Costco Wholesale and 2 pharmacists, who I felt discriminated against me because of age, disability. When I took it to upper management, the retaliation and harrassment was horrendous.
Last week, Costco was fond not guilty in a 3 week long trial. I felt I had the best lawyers and I know they gave it there all. Jurors voiced their frustration with the juror instructions when we spoke after the trial.
While I am devastated, I want to continue to be an advocate for us baby boomers ( I'm 57), who I know are experiencing this everyday, and it's only going to get worse.
Do you have any ideas or suggestions, on on to carry forward with my crusade to make a guilty verdict on age discrimination more attainable? Or how I could work with people who are going through this sad, thoughtless plight.
I was just looking through internet and found you. Perhaps there was a reason...:)
Denise Krivitsky"
Steve Smithcommented onTry something new to find a job in 2011... "That is tough Harvey. Why do you think that you haven't even been called for one interview? Is the competition in your work field especially fierce? Looking at your profile on LinkedIn, I am wondering which kinds of jobs you are looking for (applied for)? If you list some of them, maybe someone here might see one of them listed in their area or perhaps in a job resource you do not know about, and can relay that information to you."
Steve Smithcommented onSheila Bliven... "Hi Michael. If you could post a bit about more about your situation, there might be someone here who might have some possibilities for you. Your work background, state and perhaps city you live in, any limiting issues (health, etc.) that might prevent you from doing certain jobs, and whether you would be willing (and able) to move to a new location for a job, are some of the things you might post."
Suecommented onSheila Bliven... "Michael, thank you for visiting our site and sharing your experience. I hope that you are going to a job support group, so that you do not feel alone. If there is anything we can do -- help you locate a group or pass on job search links that others are using, let us know. Please take a look at the posts in our general comments section -- we have many caring site visitors and some of their advice and tips may be useful to you."
Michael Butlercommented onSheila Bliven... "Born in 1955, I started working when I was in high school. I always believed that no matter what happened, there would always be a job of some kind for me just in case anything fell through. Now here I am, 55 years old, unemployed, a 99er, and there is absolutely nothing out there to be found. I'm fighting desperation, depression, guilt, and trying to keep a positive outlook. But this is really, really hard."
Harvey Justmanncommented onTry something new to find a job in 2011... "J.T.,
I'm not sure if this comment goes to you directly. I wanted to comment on the "Try something new to find a job in 2011" post on the 'Over 50 and out of work" blog.
As I was reading, I found the statistics unbelievable, at least based on my own search difficulties and me being 'over 50 and out of work'. If I had known of the blog, I would have jumped on the contest. Lord knows I need help. I've been sending out resumes and networking for one year. I have not been called for one (yes, I have never been called to) interview.
The text on (this) your page is not legible. There are places to enter my name, email, and website, but those spaces cover text of your article.
Bottom line, I do not want to miss out on your next contest. I will be glad to share my story with your readers and make my best effort to win an amazing offer and contest.
Thanks for taking the time to read this,
Harvey Justmann
hjustmann@sbcglobal.net
216-533-3050"
Nancy Entrupcommented onAging Worker Initiative... "The job market has gotten worse in the last 24 months for the middle aged worker . Many of us are alittle to young to retire, or need to work. We can't live without money coming in anymore than any other age group can. What are we to do if they do not pass the 14 weeks of 99 extension. The bill that passed the extension for one year in late 2010 only covered people with more recent problems in the depression. I do not call it a recession when the levels are where they were in the great depression. This bill for 14 weeks to 99er's needs DESPARATELY to be passed if only for the middle aged who are being disciminated against so badly. If we are going to have laws on the books that fight discrimination, WE NEED TO MAKE THEM WORK. THEY DON:T"
Luz Gomezcommented onOlder Entrepreneurs: Regina Mason... "Great story! This illustrates the important role of entrepreneurship in a down economy. FIELD at the Aspen Institute also recommends searching our U.S. directory of microenterprise programs. It provides a listing of organizations by state that can help aspiring business owners with both training and financing: http://fieldus.org/Publications/2008/index.html
Best of luck!"
Sallycommented onOlder Entrepreneurs: Regina Mason... "Fabulous interview! I am delighted to say that Regina is a really special individual and incredible friend! I'm so happy to have been able to help with the internet marketing and their online presence. She and her daughter Becca have done an amazing job of continuing the efforts of spreading their viral presence online!
As they say here in Maryland "You go Girl!""
Kevin J. Timothycommented onGary Vinson... "To hear Mr. Vinson imply that the 10% unemployment rate is a tainted statistic is a very humbling thought. He's absolutely right in that there are thousands of unemployed people that aren't even on "paper." This interview is as real as it gets! While sad and true, I believe that resources like this serves as a "kick in the butt" and a wake up call to younger people of our generation.
I say this because I'm realizing that today's youth aren't taking their futures too seriously. In most cases, our own government isn't really on our side. With the consistent outsourcing of jobs by greedy business owners to the way our veterans are treated, we have to develop a sense of self-reliance. It's become plainly obvious that unlike decades of past, we cannot allow ourselves to become complacent with degrees and other forms of paper. While they may increase odds of landing employment, no guarantees come along with it.
I have to say that this is my first time on this website and I am already " Read the rest »
Carrie Kruegercommented onLaurie McCann... "Some valuable information here. She notes that a bigger concern that age may be that you are overqualified. This is an issue for many older workers and it's critical to be prepared to address it. Here is my blog with help on the issue of being overqualified: http://blog.jobfully.com/2010/08/youre-overqualified-what-are-they-really-saying/
I hope this is helpful in figuring out and addressing the true concerns of the employer."
Barry Adelmancommented onMaurizio & Debbie Adami... "I've always worked for myself and I'm still in business, but everything is harder. The easy days of making money are over. I wrote a song about two years ago describing how a successful business owner's life was changed by the economic collapse. The first lines (and chorus) are:
"I used to be tall, but now I am shorter
Brother won't you please come and lend me a quarter."
You can read the rest of the lyrics here: http://musicforhumanity.org/musicians/members/11/blog.php
These are tough times and I don't have any real answers."
Lou Fuococommented onJoel Nitzberg... "Joel,
I'd hire you in a NY minute if I could. You're right about us Boomers. By and large we never wanted for much of anything unlike our parents who were children of the Depression but you're a shining example of how resourceful our age group can be.
Hang in there buddy!
Lou"
K. Rostadcommented onKen Wadland... "I was very impressed with your assessment of being unemployed, of retrenching your financial life in order to go on, even if you had to take a loss in the short term. We have been in a similar situation. My husband was given notice of his upcoming lay-off at age 53, one month after the company learned he had diabetes. The electronics industry was in the midst of huge lay-offs at the time. I kept working as a substitute teacher while we consolidated our assets and property, moving to a very basic home in the countryside and selling our home in town. Our COBRA payments following the lay-off, and for 2 years, were $1100 per month, using up our severance pay. I took a half-time job, which was offered to me, as a para-ed and then became a part-time pre-school teacher with my own classroom again. The discount COBRA was unavailable to us in 2003 and 2004, but our state of Washington, offered a low cost health insurance for those with a low income, which we made use of when our severance " Read the rest »
Suecommented onDeborah Shane... "Deborah is terrific. Highly energetic, entrepreneurial and motivated to help others. Check out her site at www.deborahshane.com for more info."
morrisoncommented onDeborah Shane... "This woman is a great woman! Deborah Shane is a very smart and savvy person. I have no doubt this woman will be a success. She looks great, has a good head on her shoulders, is lucid, has a good handle on her situation, has gumption.........I'd follow her advice, she is the best! Good luck to you Deborah. You have inspired me to continue and move on. I just turned 60 also. Thank you for the motivation. We ain't dead yet."
Steve Smithcommented onJoel Nitzberg... "Joel, have you checked the website Idealist (www.idealist.org) for a possible position? You mention that you have been involved with grants for a lot of your working life. This website is one of the best compendiums of nonprofit organizations (and the resources they offer and need). Your grant writing might give you an edge with some of the jobs some of these nonprofits are offering."
Linda Hebertcommented onJoel Nitzberg... "Hello Fellow Boomers!
I am firm and adament believer that our generation, having grownup between the experience of the depression and today's technology, will lead our own generation, the melleniums and those beyond through this maze of extremes.
We have been blessed to have been born for a time such as this. Only the boomers understand how to bridge this gap, for only "we" have the combined knowledge of the past and the present. It's up to us to do the hard things first in order to blaze a new path for ourselves, or children, and grandchildren. After all, one thing that we all know and understand well is, "things change!' Change is in our natures and it's integrated in our DNA.
I would appreciate hearing from anyone willing to come together, put our heads together and brainstorm using our combined knowledge and experience to support ourselves and each other. There is a mass of business, personal, and professional know how, right here on the "Over Fifty and Out of Work" w" Read the rest »
stephencommented onDavid DeLong... "Great video! Thanks for your work in the research that made this video possible. I will share this with my brother who has been out of work for the past two years.
Stephen"
Chris Fidis Co-founder LongsIsland Breakfast Clubcommented onA farewell thank you to the Long Island Breakfast Club... "The Long Island Breakfast Club is still going to hold meetings and still assist those that need support for finding jobs. The LIBC will also steer a new direction to provide the organizations expertise as a consultive entity. The LIBC is NOT down and out for the count. The LIBC is better and stronger than ever for 2011.
Email or contact the LIBC for more details about its vision for 2011."
Karen Ecommented on50+ and Working, But Underemployed contributed by Michael Goldfarb... "Try being 68 and out of work since end-October 2008. About to run out of unemployment. Fortunately I do have Social Security. I WANT to work at an age when I SHOULD be retired...and I'm about to lose my unemployment. No one value the life and work experience of older workers. They are missing a great opportunity by not hiring me for part-time work (up to 20H/week)."
Steve Smithcommented on50+ and Working, But Underemployed contributed by Michael Goldfarb... "Michael, your story is an excellent real-life example of "underemployment". It is a shame that there is not some way to measure this along with the current unemployment figures. I saw a post recently on the web that mentioned that during the Great Depression, those who were no longer looking for work (the discouraged) were included in the commonly cited 25% unemployment figure. Today, if those same discouraged folks were included in the unemployment numbers (they are not), the true current unemployment would be around 16.8%. Plus add in the "underemployed" like yourself, and a much truer picture of the economy emerges. There is no doubt that, in general, businesses out there do not want the higher unemployed/underemployed figures published or disseminated since that likely would only reduce public confidence in the economy and thus could start a negative feedback loop, of budget cuts with businesses and governments and layoffs (which could even further affect the over 50 portion o" Read the rest »
Sarahcommented on50+ and Working, But Underemployed contributed by Michael Goldfarb... "Out of work since 4/09. Working part time (no chance of full time where I work) making 600.00-700.00 per month, and nothing for two months in the summer. I'm almost 51 with health problems (not from overweight) and suffering from depression. No one gets it."
Steve Smithcommented onAdvice for today's entrepreneurs... "For those potential entrepreneurs, there are a couple of resources that could be useful to some individuals in some situations. Those individuals who have some talent at making things (or painting, creating, etc.), a website called Etsy.com is a marketplace for all things handmade. It could be a possible way to earn some extra money, and/or if the talent is there, a new source of employment. To those who are employed, buying things on the site would help keep someone employed. The second resource is a website called SmartFlix.com. They have a plethora of how-to videos for rent on a wide range of topics. Some individuals could use these videos to attain enough skills to do certain jobs. And these jobs could help them get some additional income in some cases."
Steve Smithcommented onVideo: Heartless Layoffs, cont.... "Although I am self-employed, I have tried to follow the issues surrounding the downturn in the economy and especially unemployment. From my perspective, it appears to me that a wide range of businesses used the downturn in the economy as a reason (or excuse) to shed themselves of not only the short-term costs of wages, but more significantly the long-term costs they were facing with workers who had pension benefits due to them (or soon to be due them as in George's case). I think also, the businesses shed themselves of those employees who were a bigger liability in terms of potential health care costs to the firms, short-term and long-term. No doubt, employees over 50 were more likely to have all of these qualities which, again in my view, made them prime targets for dismissal. AND, more importantly, it is an often unstated reason why employers are not wanting to hire them now. I do not think that there was any kind of conspiracy among businesses to do this, but I do think they a" Read the rest »
Suecommented onDeborah Shane... "I copied Deborah's update from the general comments section and added it here:
Sue, When you interviewed me I was in SWFL, I am now back home in SEFL, Miami/Ft Lauderdale! I really appreciate you allowing me to share my story of reinvention, transition and hope. Life continues with everything that we’ve done and all the wonderful skills and qualities that we have. “Career transition is another beginning and an adventure”. I am living proof of that, especially after 50! Great work."
atlanta jobscommented onUnemployment levels for Americans 50 years and older... "Unemployed machinists are buying up used machines from bankrupt manufacturers and making a killing subcontracting small parts manufacturing and rebuilding specialty parts from their garage. Corporate debt and expenses are causing products and services to be cut, leaving wide open business opportunities for entrepreneurs in that market niche."
Suecommented onAdvice for today's entrepreneurs... "Steve, thank you very much for your helpful comments directed at entrepreneurs on our site. How did you find us?
In January 2011, we will be doing some interviewing in Pennsylvania where there is a program to help people found companies. Several laid-off older workers have used the resources offered by the program to help them launch their new businesses.
Please continue to add your thoughts and the benefit of your experience as a small business owner to our site."
Steve Smithcommented onAdvice for today's entrepreneurs... "I have a small service business in Tennessee--pressure washing, awning cleaning and gutter cleaning--and I would be happy to assist anyone who is interested in starting this kind of business in their area. I have been self-employed for most of my adult life from the time I graduated college.
If you are individual who thinks that you would like to be in business for yourself, then there are some local resources that can help you get started. However, these resources, from my experience, are often too general in nature. One way to get specific information on running a particular business is to get a newspaper from another area of the country than your own and check the business directory of the newspaper (near the classifieds usually). Look for a type of business you would like to be involved in. If you have few funds to get started, then choose one that requires low startup resources. Then, get a few back issues of the newspaper and see which advertisers in that section have be" Read the rest »
Suecommented onBob Delpizzo... "Bob posted this update in our general comments section, and I added it here:
I was one of the first to be interviewed by Sue when she started this project, and wanted to provide a follow-up to my video. In late October, I landed a consulting position as an IT Project Manager at a global manufacturing firm. It is a great opportunity and I am very pleased to have landed there. If there is one lesson that my transition has taught me, it is that transition is permanent, and jobs are temporary. As a result, I continue to network and help others in their employment quest. Thank you Sue, for giving me the opportunity to tell my story."
Maureen Mowercommented onGeorge Dys... "I'm not quite 50 yet (49), but I have run into the same kind of discrimination on the few job interviews I've had. Invariably they tell me I'm "overqualified" - which is code for anything from "you're too old" to "you're likely to leave when something better comes along". I've checked in at each one a few weeks later, ostensibly to see if there are any new openings, and every time the person they hired is half my age - with 1/4 of my intellect and 1/10 my experience.
I came up with an alternative to the Obama/GOP tax plan that would help reverse that trend by giving the tax breaks to employers that hire directly from the unemployment rolls, and scaling them so that the largest incentives were paid for hiring the 99ers and long-term unemployed. That would have helped get us back to work, and helped boost the economy too.
http://hiretrainretainact.blogspot.com/
Give it a read when you have a chance, and if you agree, share it with others. Whether or not we can get any att" Read the rest »
Lee-Lye Kimcommented onDan Sato... "Thank you for bringing Mr. Dan Sato's story. It was a refreshing one to hear amidst the time of confusion. It really empowers me to do better in life and my academic life as a student.
And I really do agree that this recession is a curious one."
Ho Sang Leecommented onSusan Fiske & Mike North... "I used the information from this clip for my presentation in a class. The word "stereotype" is widely used nowadays, but this clip provided me a whole new version of a stereotype. I think
the results of this research has a variety of possibilities to be applied in education or policy for both younger and older people. I am extremely grateful to both researchers and creators of this website for making this research available to the public."
Terri Tffanycommented onRick Peterson... "My heart goes out to Rick. He could be my husband who lost his job in August of 2007. Similar way, similar feelings and emotions and same results."
Terri Tffanycommented onFlashmobs4jobs today in Manhattan... "We are soon to be one of them too--any week. Over fifty and unemployed after working your whole life is the hardest challenge we have ever faced. Top that off with I live in Florida where it is ever worse."
Jobless Janecommented onFlashmobs4jobs today in Manhattan... "There were 30 people at the event, chanting:
Obama, Jobs!; Bernanke, Jobs!; Schumer, Jobs!
We want work!
G O P can't see!
Open the vaults!
We need a J O B to E A T
among others."
carol morgancommented onMichael McClatchey... "Mr. McClatchey of Michigan seems flexible, making me wonder if he would like to help my brother in Walled Lake, Michigan. He is doing a landmark business in real estate, leasing homes and other propreties for people who leave to find jobs elsewhere. My brother has been in property management for 30 years and is very hardworking and honest. From time to time he hires people to work for him as managers, etc. Please have Mr. McClatchey respond if he's interested. I don't know if my brother pays health or retirement benefits."
Perrycommented onBig week for Over 50 and Out of Work... "I am 50 and have been out of work for 17 months. I have applied for hundreds of positions with the company that eliminated my job. I was and am willing to relocate. I was successful with my company and never missed a day of work for the 6 years I worked for this company.
I started as a greeter in 2003, became a Customer Service Representitive, Retail Sales Representitive and was promoted to a District Sales Consultant. After doing a good job in that position I was promoted to a Regional Sales Consultant for Southern California. My inititive was retail to business and lead the region to the top in the enterprise, because of this, there was not a need for a consultant and my job was eliminated.
I have applied for Business Sales, Manager and Assistant Manager positions, Retail Sales, and Customer Service Positions. No luck! I have never even had a face to face interview. I had a couple of telephone interviews, but in most cases I recieved a letter (Email) stating "I was no" Read the rest »
Robert Millercommented onSusan Fiske & Mike North... "Your work is commendable Susan. Very informative and astute insights from Susan and Mike...missing: action plans, for employer, employee, educators and society to change these perceptions and the new Paradigm that the Information Age has created.Thank you Susan for keeping me in the loop.
Bob
My typing skills are close to pre-historic thus the lack of elaboration."
Pat Aloiacommented onDan Sato... "I listened to Dan Sato..........who was so inspirational. Our recession was so different from those previously experienced. "It was a loss of human capital across the entire economy of the United States." How true that statement is. Another great point he mentioned is saying "yes" to opportunities. Thank you Dan! We all need your positive spins these days!"
Eileen B. Garrahan, Ed.dcommented onBrian King and Jessica Goldstein... "Given all the current 'chatter' about the deficit, ergo, the economy, this video puts a face to the dillema facing the nation. When you multiply this story by 15,000,000,000, these people come out of the shadows and shake the reality that is ours. This should go beyond a viral video/blog and to the hearts of our congressional leaders and the President. Congratulations for an enlightening piece of journalism."
Laurie Lasercommented onBrian King and Jessica Goldstein... "I'm am 52 yrs old and unemployed. I'm a registered nurse and never dreamed I would be out of work. I would make comments at work about how blessed I was because my career could not be touched by the mess our country is in .
I now am starting to believe I was let go because of my age. The Facility Administrator is now a 25 year old man and from what I'm hearing through former co-workers is that most of the staff over 40 years old are gone for one reason or another. The new staff being brought in are mostly under 40. (Way under 40).
The company I worked for is a multimillion dollar company and none of the employees let go would be able to prove it was because of age discrimination.
I have been looking for work for 7 months. It is funny that I saw the video of Brian King and Jessica because just the night before it dawned on me that maybe the reason I'm not finding work is because of my age. The panic rises in my throat just typing this."
Susan Kayecommented onSusan Kaye... "Seeing the video now is very sad. My house was sold and I have to be out of it by September 30, 2010. At the end of June I was fired from my job. The only place I could find to live was renting a room in some one house. To rent apt. want to see income, unemployment is not good income for them."
Patriciacommented onAn Over 50 and Out of Work interviewee who needs help... "Dear Mary, How did our grandparents manage before us in the Great Depression? Once again we are in an economy/job market that is devastatingly unstable in some parts of the United States. I don't know your details and I am sure you have done so much to get back on track. Have faith and please try to keep yourself mentally, physically and socially stimulated. My thoughts are with you. Patricia"
Patrickcommented onAn Over 50 and Out of Work interviewee who needs help... "Mary,
I read your story on Susan Sipprelle's blog, www.overfiftyandoutofwork.com, and my heart went out to you. It is so frustrating to be over 50 and out of work in this current time when you know so many private sector firms are flush with cash (in the trillions) but refuse to invest in expansion and staff additions because of the uncertain business environment. So many people I know have spent months, even years, sitting in front of their computer sending hundreds (even thousands) of job applications and resumes out without receiving a single response from the Human Resources Departments of the prospective employers (your comment about the federal government struck a chord with me by the way). If there ever was a way to make a person feel isolated and unwanted, this process is it.
That being said, there is a way out. Here are the lessons I learned when I was in the same position as you:
*Get out from behind the computer and join as many job networking groups as you can b" Read the rest »
Donna Martineaucommented onWeirton... "Just had a chance to view your site. It's very sharp, good work by all. Hope that your project is successful and all that you hope it to be. I will tell everyone to take a look."
Recent Comments
"We need to look at our strengths and determine how we can put them to good use. IF we do what everyone else is doing, there is a strong chance we will get the same results. I saw a "presume" a few weeks ago, which was a video presentation that was sent to the CEO...they got the job"
"Learned the last tier of unemployment benefits (EB) is being terminated effective 2/18 because "Michigan no longer meets Federal criteria ". Me & 29000 others lose this benefit. 12 weeks to go.Sucks! LARA - Extended Benefit Program Ends in Michigan - Up to 20 weeks of... michigan.gov"
"We must fight, stay strong and let the world know that we are the hidden majority and we have power. We have to come togather and let our voices be heard. Dammit, i am tired of this. Contact me and let out voices be heard!!!"
"great positive attitude in tough times. you are inspirational."
"Valentina, it is good to see you moving forward and growing the Long Island Breakfast Club. Best of luck."
"I cant' beat the system, but I can write about it. http://karmalkornstudio.blogspot.com/2011/10/ive-tried-no-more.html"
"Rick - first thanks for your service in the military, i was just a little fart when you was serving in the Vietnam War and to be in a Special outfit is truly remarkeable. the way i see it - you are extremely valuable asset to anyone. All the hard life you had in growing up in Louisana, the many years of military and special training, the civilian crafts that you have aquired would just floor employers if they gave you a chance. I am like you i was raised to do my job and the military trained me well - i am capable of so much with all the lives i have been responsible for and the millions of dollars of Army Equipment, yet I cannot even get a job. I am back to school and I am going to try harder this time around because I too dont beleive in giving up."
"Joe, firstly sir- thank you for your service in the mill! secondly, I pray for your health! thank you for sharing this story even though there was a great deal of pain to speak it. You are right completely, people should not be treated this way. My grandfather retired from the mill, my poor father never got his retirment- he was like you - he was swindled even though it was a accident and not his fault. I too wanted to be a steel worker but i am glad i chose to go to the military. There was a time when i was mistreated also in the military, i had to go to War and was denied the chance to go see my daughter- what a thing to do and not knowing if your gonna come back. I am feel very bad for guys like you who are hard working, smart, qualified people. Its ironic, I had 22 years in the military as a leader with numerous training responsible for millions of dollars of equipment and was responsible for peoples lives yet I cannot find work. I was really fired up hearing your story and my " Read the rest »
"Joe thanks for your service in the mill, thanks for sharing. I would have been a 3rd generation steel worker but i decided to go in to the military service. No offense to anybody for those who tried to follow their grandfather and fathers foosteps. I too wanted to be a steel worker like my family and realized it was hard but prideful. I have had a hard life in the military, wars etc, but it was the smartest thing i ever did. I listened to older folks in the late 80's. but.....now i too am like you, after 22 years as a military leader who has been responsible for millions of dollars of equipment, ledership training, a degree, and i cannot get a job. I feel like you .... Mr. President please explain to all of us who are very qualified adn like your self very qualified what are we suppoised to do? Why wont they hire us? ' God Bless Take Care Joe"
"Dear Mary, my name is R. Smth, my wife and I has the same problem. We are both are educated and over 50 been looking for work for 2 years. we got to the point where we got a car title loan to pay bills and rent thinking we may find a job by time to pay the first month on the loan, that dnt happen. Now we've created another problem. Rent, bills and loan is due. This made my wife very sick. Maybe our faith is not as strong as it should be? We still believe that God will send someone or someone will send what we need to manage through. Mary we feel you, just build your faith up as we will do the same"
"Given the current age and increasing gap towards social security, I think a problem will occur."
"You're not alone. It's only a failure if you quit trying. Don't quit."
"Dear Jessica & Brian ~ I wanted to let you know guys that I felt deeply touched not only by the scope and honesty of your heart aching story but, most importantly, by your unique human dimension courageously exhibited in your discourse. Only two weeks went by since I started to gradually envisioned some palpable light at the end of the tunnel, having myself been living a 'hand to mouth existence' for well over four years. Perhaps you may have heard similar stories all the time, but I would like to humbly point out that I am a professional actor originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina who has amassed a consistent body of work mainly in the USA, Europe and obviously in Latin America who's still struggling to make ends meet. Having earned my MFA and toured the USA many times over doing Regional Theatre as well as being part of the International Theatre Festival arena over the course of three plus decades, I also feel nothing but disheartened by the sour reality that we performing art" Read the rest »
"What we really need is to get the economy going so there are more jobs available....but ever since Congress (well, one party) refused to pass the $1.5 trillion stimulus economists said we needed at the beginning of 2009, it's been obvious that this is going to be a long downturn.."
"http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/31/long-term-unemployed-middle-class_n_942734.html see article how I am laid off at 54"
"Don't give up. There is always a way if you can see it, and often it is in the front of our faces, but so close we cannot see it. Wishing you well, as you struggle with this. The real trick is to hang on to one's own sense of self worth. Kind Regards, kevin aka @FitOldDog"
"I mentioned to a career center employee at a job fair that employment challenges are like challenges that Rosa Parks felt when Rosa wanted to sit at the front of the bus. All of a sudden, the career center employee said, "I can not hear you." Just watch "Boycott" and then you will see a correlation. I also mentioned to the career center employee that on an application, I wrote, "if you can not understand discipline or sacrifice, then I do not understand what you are looking for." You was the California State employment agency. Sacrifice refers to a Veteran and discipline refers to education. The career center employee said, "You said that?" Yes - Freedom of speech and the press."
"Being out of work since Aug. '07 and being a 99'r is a challenge. The current jobs bill includes segregation such as 'do not hire the unemployed' creates a dilemma. The challenges that exist are equivalent to what Rosa Parks faced and must be addressed. That challenge is discrimmination and an American Tradition."
"Thank you, David, for sharing some of your experiences and for your thoughtful comments."
"Dear Bill You have many brothers & sisters in your forclosure family who share in your pain. You are not alone & for whatever Its worth your in very good company. It's been a humbling journey for me & so I can identify with & respect your pain. My journey from NYC housing projects, first job at 14 as dishwasher, first generation born in US, first in my family To not only graduate from a public state college, but also achieve a US Air Force commission as an Officer, Service as Nuclear Weapons officer in Strategic Air Command and then law school with some GI bill assistance was an evolution, that I never suspected would lead back financial disempowerment especially since I always lived well below my means & never really cared much for keeping with the Jones' I purchased & drove low mileage used vehicles, & I am proud to say even in my very best years I was regular at garage sales, thrift shops & consignment stores; proud t" Read the rest »
"Bill, this is beautifully written. I can feel your pain and anguish. I'm so sorry that you found yourself in this situation and pray that things are improving for you and your family. May you find comfort, peace and hope."
"Mike i feel for you, i understand your situation as i am almost in the same situation as you when you say your wife and kids dont love you anymore. The thing is they dont realise they would not have a roof over their head and having the lifestye that they have now if it wasnt for you. Your kids are going to be over 50 and will realise then your situation. God Bless"
"Thank you very much for your service to our country. I appreciate what you have done. My father was a traumatized combat veteran who never got help. I am glad you are speaking out. Best wishes for you and your family-beautiful daughter. God bless----"
"I TOTALLY have felt the same INSULTS TO THE SENSES that you have my friend. And it's funny, I might have slipped by if I hadn't followed my moral compass. You know, the one these talk-radio bastards yak on and on about, but have used or owned, or would know how to follow if it fell into their hands. I found myself faced with a HUGE choice in late 04 that caused me to choose between the IP guru that flew around the country fronting for a major vendor or working near home plate for a local biz to fill the necessary role of single dad. There were problems that could not be counseled away and I made the decision MY FATHER WOULD HAVE MADE. Well, it worked for a while thought the inconvenience of an IT Director who couldn't drop everything and run in at 3am proved less attractive than working the poor programmer that worked along with me being forced to run the whole shooting match (Last I heard his health was on it's least leg). Since then, my divorce finalized and to save the kids " Read the rest »
"I am John P. I am a 47 old (round up and I am), college educated (student loan still owed), 7 year US Army Vet, that is working three jobs, doing dirty hard work, packing earthworms, slamming cans (5 cent refund center), and sweeping streets. Oh, I just got let go from that one but (f) it! They called to let me know on my only Federal Holiday I will ever celebrate again. I got lucky and was able to celebrate with the politicians, bureaucrats, and judges. I use to hate them damn attorneys but I salute you counselor(s) saw you working too... My new address is: http://www.facebook.com/OccupyBuffalo Video Link: http://www.overfiftyandoutofwork.com/"
"labor is cheap in china because china is a nation of slaves."
"i left weirton in 81, when i was laid off from the mill. i have fond memories of weirton but i am glad i left. they should never of let the gambling in."
"Yes, I did use my unemployment as an opportunity to learn new skills. I enrolled in an online university and earned an Associates degree in Criminal Justice."
"Yes, we had 2 incomes for most of 30 years, but our expenses were almost as much as our incomes. We always paid our bills on time or early, but there was not a lot left over. Childcare expenses that allowed me to work were in excess of $6000/year for 5 years. We also helped my mom out with some of her expenses when she ran out of money several years after my dad passed away. Maybe it was just bad luck when our cars broke down or had other unexpected expenses, but every time we had "a little extra", it never had the chance to build into anything. With a mortgage of over $1500/month, 2 incomes totalling $90 doesn't go very far."
"The “2011 Fair Playing Field Act to Protect American Workers Against Age Discrimination” http://signon.org/s/HkT7QV CORPORATE GENOCIDE =BOOMERS+55+ers are 43 % of the LONG TERM UNEMPLOYED the HIGHEST RATE of any age group! Nearly 1/2 Of Oldest Unemployed Have Been Jobless For Over A Year! A 2009 Supreme Court Ruling in the case of (Robert Gross Vs FBL, Farm Bureau Life) the 83rd Largest Company in the world changed the age discrimination laws as we knew them. Adding insult to injury; CLARENCE THOMAS WROTE a new law that nullified & ended the age discrimination portion of the Title VII ADEA of 1967 Act that protected women, ethnicity, age discrimination, religion & disabilities in civil rights law. Age discrimination was first, what will be next?? These are the results of the Clarence Thomas law http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/02/long-term-unemployment_n_1071851.html?ref=business"
"I can't help but think what can I do? This web site is doing something. I am no longer a job creator but I want to vote for those who believe in social action, justice. I need a new economic vision."
"Advertise yourself as a consultant. Hire out for private parties. You have too much experience to throw in the towel now. Just refold the towel and "shake that thang" lady...(the drink that is...)"
"I was a substitute teacher for three years, a mid-life career change that due to many circumstances did NOT pay off for me. I was exposed, though. to K-12 educational systems since a substitute teacher teaches at ALL grade levels and class-types. I really enjoyed the 11th and 12th graders and especially in the social studies arena that was my specialty I had obtained my two teaching credentials in. Sadly, I left the educational field behind since there was more laying-off than hiring and most openings desired a coach for sports more than someone knowledgeable and excited about the subject. There was also, as the the interviewed teacher mentioned... well, I declare that the USA educational systems, ascertained by first-hand experience and MUCH reading about the matter, is mostly a method of disseminating propaganda... of brainwashing USA youth. Notice how so many elites and others send THEIR youth to certain academies etc. so THEIR youth are not indoctrinated as the lowly" Read the rest »
"Really enjoyed the comments of Warren Brodhead and would have loved to have had him for a social studies teacher when I was growing up in the 1970's in Salt Lake City, UT. Perhaps if I had I wouldn 't have been so worried about success thereby falling off the student loan cliff when I went back to law school as an older adult student and racked up massive student loan debt that has not paid off, or been paid off!"
"In my humble opinion, UUhhmm (The Snarky Boomer types again) When the 1% has manged to eliminate the middle class completely (the backbone of America) there will be no one left to buy their d@%# stuff. Less taxes to collect- infrastructures will (and are) crumbling. They (the 1%) are cannibalizing themselves and to greedy to see it. Cut staff to up the black ink, that can only go on so long. Its just common sense folks, not economic genius. Greed NEVER gets enough, there is not enough money in the world to satisfy the 1%, but then again money buys power, power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts, absolutely."
"Not sure what your background is- but you might want to look into "RentaGrandma.com" It originated in Los Angles, CA- for all types of domestic help- pet sitting and personal assistant. You have to have a background check."
"I wish I lived somewhere other than the end of the world. That is why on line means so much to me. Nothing near me unless I want to drive 50-60 miles."
"I tried that myself-reinvent my career choice. This has been 10 years ago, then I was 50. When I started my life's journey, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I got married VERY young and before the age of 20, I was offered an opportunity to work in a bank, in bookkeeping. I jumped on the chance. So for approximately 14 years that is what I did. I worked in every department and took all the classes I could and made it to a middle management position. So, suffice to say, I did the first thing that was available whether it was my talent or passion, it was a living. Then after children were on their own, I decided to make a change and went back to school and trained for medical records coding. Made it through the class with A's and got the certificate. Came out and applied at local hospital, no openings. Applied for advertised job opening at a drug store. The first question asked, was ..have you ever worked in a medical office or setting before? Well, no, I had been in banking m" Read the rest »
"I just wanted to say I really respect your summary of your experiences and to say I am only 24 and also used to believe these sorts of things the governments trick us into believing. I am part of the occupy London movement and hope that we can start to open peoples eyes to the fact the carpet will be pulled from under all of them too, so we that we can start a discussion on a new type of system and no we are not anti capitalist as the media keeps portraying us, we are just concerned at how life now seems to be more about profit and less about life for everyone these days, I also wan't to draw you attention to a video on the net as I can tell you with a certainty that almost all these (financial) problems we are having are almost all down to banks please watch this video and then do ya own research you will be shocked, youtube "Abolish the Federal Reserve by Ralph Epperson [Full Presentation]" kind regards and respect to all of you that have had the carpet pulled from underneath you"
"I too am a now 60, but at 59 pink slipped Boomer. I started my blog back in July of 2011 to reach out to other pink slipped Boomers. I have a lot on my blog that may be of help to some - http://boomersberg.com/how-to-retire-without-fort-knox-as-your-retirement-fund/ Also is a link library to sites that could be helpful. My husband and I did the reverse mortgage deal and I have my RV paid for. May end up living in it. I really love RVing, but if your health is not good, that becomes a poor option. I started my blog, thinking of how Eskimo legend states that the old eskimo's are set adrift on an iceberg with a small ration of food- exactly what I felt like and still do, but mentally I am coming out of the dark pit my mind was in."
"The sentiments of a kindred Boomer. I resonate with these words for I too have been on the same receiving end of the nasty "New Reality". Those born from 1946 to 1964 are supposed to be in the Boomer Generation, so there is a commonality of experiences during that time span. But now those who have not been smacked down by current economic conditions cannot relate. I am seeing that nothing divides people better than money. The have's and the have not's. Young, old, black, white or martian- without resources the world takes on a whole new perspective and you grab onto what sanity you have left, so that does not go out the door too. http://about.me/snarkyboomer"
"I am in the same situation also. My husband and I have a small business that has almost come to a hault, directly related to the economy. We have almost all equity in our property and can't refinance . What does that tell you? I am talking about 30 years of blood, sweat and tears in this property. If we lose it, we have nothing else. Trying to sell, but there are no buyers. This government does not care. They want to own everything we have and control us all. I feel there is no hope left."
"I'm well over 50, in fact I'm 64 and living in Orlando, Florida. I'm a veteran as well. I am a former Corporate Recruiter and have been out of work since Feb 09. As a method of paying forward I review resumes for people and run ProNet Career Resources. Now I am seeking a way to survive. Not sure what to do."
"Laura, please take a look at the site www.shadowstats.com, where you will be able to find alternate unemployment charts at http://www.shadowstats.com/alternate_data/unemployment-charts The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported an unemployment rate of 9.1 percent for September 2011 (U3). The BLS reported an unemployment + underemployment rate of 16.5 percent for September 2011 (U6). Neither of these figures includes the 1,037,00 discouraged jobseekers."
"Laura, thank you very much for your generous offer! When we went to Oregon and interviewed Rudy, the local TV station covered the story that Over 50 and Out of Work was interviewing older unemployed workers in the Portland area. A local businessman who owns a medical parts manufacturing company, saw the TV story and hired Rudy, who now has a full-time job with benefits! We posted this happy news about Rudy on our blog!"
"We will pray for you and your family. What is your address? I will send you some money."
"Of the 11% do u know exactly how many workers age 45 & older are unemployeed. Many are no longer counted on the unemployment & virtually invisible!!"
"Thanks a lot for your life-video....although not from the US ,I can so wholesomely relate to the story of both of you! Counting myself to the"lost generation " from just before the internet,I really recognized when Brian said "i've never been able to prosper"despite all my qualities. The difference being that the road my partner and myself together have gone has lead us from the Netherlands to Germany to New Zealand to Switzerland back to the Netherlands. I recognize the wit mixed with disilusion and anguish in your body language. We had an extremely fragmented carreer,and ended up self employed in Holland.By one way or another we have managed to save 1100.000 eur by virtue of ultra frugal rational attitudes towards litteraly everything.We have never ever made any choice of the heart, always of the mind though. We had to learn fluent German and learn to understand Swiss German with all its antics.But our minds have transcended fear. Although I always felt an inherent dismay of" Read the rest »
"How is it possible that people that have had two incomes for 30 y or so run out of money after 18 months???"
""We are the richest country in the world" Have you heard about countries like Norway, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Sweden Finland, Netherlands,Denmark,Singapore ...you would very soon find out when traveling there that your statement is inherently wrong...even when we let the unfavourable exchange rates for the US dollar out....the US media make no mention of this, and US citizens are poorly traveled generally... Gerard, Netherlands"
"Great to hear that finally feelings of sheer anger and disgust do exist and are being pronounced! Gerard Netherlands 53 years old"
"I admire your resilience and wish you progress very soon! Gerard, Netherlands"
"Dear Sheila, You appear to be such an amiable person....what really upsets me is when you tell that you were escorted out of your workplace, as a piece of refuse so to speak.How come that there is no outright anger expressed. It all conveys an impression of powerless compliance with an in itself totally immoral dehumanized working environment .Sickening from my perspective, but probably an unassailable symptom of human commodification. Gerard Stroy, 53 years , Netherlands."
"Everytime I am just dumbfounded by the fact that these people haven't made any substantial savings during their "prosperous times" and by that I don't mean 10.000$ or so. How can it be that myself having had all the adversities in terms of unemployment, years idle against my will, living in what you refer to as socialist Europe, as a self employed person taxed with additional purpose taxations in my home country Holland , and still be able to save 1000000Euros and more.All this despite having suffered from all three major downturns on the stock market.There must be a fundamental (cultural) different pattern in spending behavior. Honestly, touring the US southwest this summer, 6500km, I have been able to see the difference in attitudes.A patty example...I live in a highly energy efficient house, I use 35 Watts for lighting.An average small coffe bar ,I have counted easily reaches 3000Watts during the day, only lighting! does this ring some, some, sort of bell? Gerard, Netherlands"
"A degree is "sociology" is not worth the paper it's printed on. This is the result of poor advisement and a catchall field of study for the academically confused. If she had followed in her mother's footsteps and taken nursing, she'd have a job today. College for the masses is not what people imagine. It's a shame, but far from too late. This kid needs to get into a graduate program in nursing, or another aspect of the medical field which requires licensure. Then she'll get a job."
"What an interesting guy. It is so true. We had a revolution, a civil war, a labor movement, a European War about systems. They matter if we think liberty and justice for all means anything. We have more liberty but hardly more justice today. Ignorance, sickness, hunger need more than an individual alone to overcome. They need systems created and regulated by justice. We are not so stupid we can't figure out the liberty part of it also."
"Thank you for sharing your inspirational story. It struck a chord with me; a chord that REALLY needed striking. I lost my publishing business in Oct. '08 and have been struggling every since, trying to get back into corporate communications and marketing. I know in my heart it won't happen, because I'm too experienced and talented, but have been terrified to start another business, after losing everything the last time. Thank you for providing the kick in the butt I needed. Best of luck to you!"
"Thank you for your empathetic and forceful response, Julie! Gerlyne was not ungrateful for the boost in life she received from her parents. She is wondering what the future will hold for her."
"Obviously Faith you are without empathy. Are you in her shoes??? If not, try putting yourself there. I run across people just like you every single time I protest with OWS. People like you roll down their car window and yell, "Get a job!". Well, to you well meaning types - I have a job, and have worked with the same company for 7 years now. It pays better than what most people seem to have and I feel very fortunate. I live in a house that is paid for. So, I have a job and feel fairly secure, if that means anything. Why do I go out and protest? For my children and grandchildren, for people like the woman in this video, for the homeless person who cannot get work because of emotional issues, for the prisoner who has served time and has been paroled and won't find work, for the person who is over 50 and won't easily find another job when up against a younger person, for the addict who can't find the way to a job. I'm sick of rich people, even those who were born with the silver spoon in" Read the rest »
"Wow! no gratitude for the opportunity to go to college in the first place? Her Sociology degree would be non-existent had her parents remained in Haiti."
"OPEN LETTER : To those who are being paid to protect us. EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) Representatives Congress and the Supreme Court OLDER WORKERS NEED YOUR HELP IN LIFTING THE BURDEN a 2009 Supreme Court Ruling in the case of (Robert Gross Vs FBL, Farm Bureau Life) the 83rd Largest Company in the world has inflicted on older workers. Its PUBLIC RECORD that Clarence Thomas wrote a new law that nullified and ended the age discrimination portion of the 1967 EEO Act that protected women, ethnicity age discrimination, religion, disabilities. THIS RULING HAS INFLICTED inhumane hardships on older workers and clearly violated their civil and human rights. It allows biases in want ads that disqualify the unemployed, in the screening and interview process; and perpetuates long term unemployment. Age discrimination creates jobs lose, depletes life savings, college, and retirement funds. Predictably blue and white collar workers are pushed into poverty with no heal" Read the rest »
"Great article. The people I am meeting at Occupy Raleigh mirror this diversity and the concerns mentioned. This is about have a more democratic economy. Adam Smith would not recognize the current system as what he had in mind. The corporate bosses, rich, politicians, etc. are the new aristocracy. We need to reduce their influence and spread the benefits so all participate. Shiva Steve Ordog"
"Great video - extremely thoughtful analysis. Thanks for posting this! -Sam"
"A lot of us deal with the frustration everyday of what used to work, now no longer does. Like monkeys in a lab experiment we were trained to do X + X = reward. Now X+X= feces. What is very frustrating is we have no previous experience on how to cope with the situation most of us find ourselves in. The learning curve is VERY steep and some are being shoved over the cliff."
"Look at it as a chance to learn new skills. 1. How to live on next to nothing -skill translated: you know how to move a company from red to black on the books. 2. Negotiating with bill collectors- skill translated: Hard negotiating skills that help a company navigate to a win/win 3. Dealing with frustration- skill translated: how to cope with frustration in the work place. 4. Writing/ interview for different job opportunities- skill translated: Improved communication skills verbal, written and visual."
"Help us all understand if there is another way past simplistic slogans of capitalism's triumphalism and market deification. Can intelligent citizens find a new way to by pass money-media power? Thank you for not having a point of view besides the reporting of the gross evil of the over 50 unemployed."
"Complaining about corporate greed and denying "we the corporations" provides little life to our employment problem. If you tell me as a business owner I am not allowed to run my business, then why should I be in business? If you want to run your own business, the get a license. Denying my rights will eliminate your employment. You can make me give back my money, but you cannot force me to stay in business."
"We the people instead of we the corporations."
"Thanks for the great pictures!"
"Thank you for the information your pictures convey, thank you for a simple and dignified explanation of what is happening. I learned more from your piece than I have from any other media coverage. Now I want to learn more. Please keep up your coverage behind the camera and in a written story."
"Wonderful to see these pictures of a rudimentary form of nation building. The founding fathers would be proud. -- H"
"Hi! You're right, it will come along, but remember that chance favors the prepared mind so prepare. I was terminated about one year ago, and I too have been calculating the life of my savings and so forth. My approach is really described (in somewhat manic terms, but amusing) in The Four Hour Work Week, by Tim Ferriss. You can see what I am starting at http://olddogsintraining.com. We'll see if I manage to make a buck. That's my plan. Hang in there. Boy, you don't look 65, and I wish I had your head of hair. Best wishes. -k @FitOldDog aka kevin morgan"
"I hear they are hiring in PERU..."
"Thanks for sharing George. I related to many of your thoughts. I am not sure there is an answer at this time? I think our once amazing country needs to bottom out completely before things will change for the better and we begin to rise out of the hole we are in. Most folks are in denial as to how BAD "it" is... I think a group of us need to get together are pool ideas, money and anything else it takes to move forward! We all need to drop our EGOs and put our heads/resources together. Strenght in numbers is still a good one! Just say'in... Good Luck!! - Sandy H. Miller / former successful entrepeneur"
"thanks for your story...times are really hard.."
"Thank you for telling us your story. You are not alone."
"You really stated the issue so well... nobody has any jobs at this point."
"Thought I'd follow-up with a little story. I just returned empty handed from a trip to S. NV. I had found a connection which networked to a job. After a phone call and several emails it became apparent I'd best take a drive and show up in person. I did but suddenly sensed a problem. "I never promised you a job" is what I got. I didn't say it but, yes you did. It makes me feel like I am reading things into communications, wishful thinking. I just drove a thousand miles and got hosed? Sure did! I did not become confused or make a mistake. These types of issues are new to me, I'm not used to this insincerity in the job market. It has been two years with no sense this stupidity will end. Not a pity party, just truth. I guess there are a number of employers who have zero integrity and getting worse. Seems we are all in a tight spot. Remaining positive is becoming a monumental task. Damn hard to uphold self-confidence, worth and value with this crap kicking me in the crotch all the time, gee" Read the rest »
"Congratulations Virginia! I went through a similar experience in the early 2000's which inspired me to change everything in my life. That's how I became the Midlife Crisis Queen, and how I began advocating for those in midlife hell. It's those totally humbling experiences which teach us the most about ourselves."
"Brian, thank you for your comment on our site. I regret that we reached our 100 interviews before we were able to interview coal miners for our project. Did you work or are you currently employed in the coal industry?"
"My Grandfather, Joseph Lampel, was Western Pa U.M.W.A. President until his death, this past July, and I watched the same thing happen to the coal industry. Presently, we have been warned that St. Joe Lead, now Horsehead industry, will be closed down in a few years, O.S.H.A., the E.P.A., and our Government in general is anti-business, with staggering fines, and unattainable guidelines, and restrictions that choke, and kill even successful businesses! What a shame! Brian W. Patosky"
"I have been and presently in the same boat. As far as resumes are concerned, one can become confused what to apply for. When employers state, "You do not want this job" or "How long do you expect to be around" or "You do not fit," then arrogance becomes a norm. Oh, by the way, an attorney will say the condition is not discrimmination."
"I started working when I came over, had to learn English, and when I needed money. Thus, practically everything at a young age and gaining experience. Now, after applying to various qualified positions, one becomes confused by which position a person should apply for. Furthermore, then there are the complaints that a person must endure why one has not worked for such a long time. Never mind the continuous discrimmination that is occuring, which is preventing a hiring or when persons assume that a person is too old towards being in a workplace. I would call them an atheist for disrespect towards mankind. As to the food problem, I understand nutrition programs called SNAP are improving quals and should provide basic food needs. Besides, the centers will give out additional assistance programs."
"I have been out of work since summer of 2007 i.m going to be 51 next month. What blows me away is how the online apps will come right out and ask for your birthdate, i thougt that was a restricted question under federal employement laws, where is the enforcement?"
"Best of Luck Guys/Gals and hope and wish alot more of out brothers and sisters are as successful as you are."
"New to this site. Just turned 53, thought reading comments would somehow sooth me, it hasn't. I keep being told, "you're not the only one." Does this make anyone feel better? I specialized in the mid 90's so when I got older I wouldn't have to be outside working on equipment in the snow. Um,...seemed like a good idea at the time. Try as I might, I've made no connections. I have found opposition when I attempt to do "walk-ins" at employers to see if they have work. I suspect too many people do this due to widespread unemployment. Honestly, I've never really had to shop for a job. Generally I always had a network to go on or similar. The networks are gone and the overall friendliness of employers has become confrontational! So I have relied on the internet, checking job-sites and sending resumés, so far a colossal waste of time. I seldom hear from anyone, the manners are gone. I am in the twilight zone. I can feel judgments about my sanity and my quality as a man. True, I admit my pride" Read the rest »
"The reason is there exists a lack of interest and various excuses. The claim is attitude is your problem."
"Congratulations, Elizabeth! That's great news!"
"I GOT A JOB! I was hired on Sept. 19 by a medical association to be their staff writer covering medical-legal and policy issues. I am so happy I could bust!"
"I think you are a credit to all of us gessers and I am proud of you. Keep your chin up because you have helped many people and that energy will come back to you. You are fantastic and will be fine."
"What are your interests?"
"The site's data charts compare timelines and stats for American workers aged 50+ to those for all workers aged 16+. The data would be more compelling still if you also broke out Americans 49-. Please consider including this third cohort in your bar graphs -- or using it in place of the 16+ data."
"Good for you. Congratulations!"
"I don't see how anything short of a quota system will get us back to work. The tax break cannot possibly outweight the costs of our health insurance and salary. If they save a thousand bucks, our health insurance premiums will far exceed that in a year. I really don't know why everyone does not pay the same premium for healthcare. It should be averaged out across the entire population. After all, the young people will get old at some point....and if they don't, too bad! If we cannot have a national health insurance, everyone should at least pay the same. I too just turned 50 and I have a better chance of getting killed by a terrorist than every finding a full time job. I must have sent out approximately 600 resumes in the last 18 months and I have had 4 interviews. In at least three of them, the interviewers became noticably absent minded the minute I walked through the door, as if they were expecting someone younger. And I can pass for late 30's. I did not put any jobs o" Read the rest »
"Yes, it is age. I am your exact age and have been unemployed exactly as long. I have always gotten jobs before but now all of a sudden i am not qualified even when I apply for a job that is the exact duplicate of something i have already done."
"Yes, it is age. I am your exact age and have been unemployed exactly as long. I have always gotten jobs before but now all of a sudden i am not qualified even when I apply for a job that is the exact duplicate of something i have already done."
"And your wishes are what we are all fighting for! You & all like you are in my prayers daily."
"These memories bring back the tears and the realization again how we are all the same in loss be it jobs, or the horror of a beloved life lost."
"I'll ask- do you wash a sink of dishes/load-unload dishwasher- mow grass- run vacuum, any household task IS contributing even if it doesn't feel like it!!"
"Hey Mike do you remember talking to your parents about the great depression? I was not interested in listening to the stories back then but I wish my old man was still alive so I could listen to them now. I hope you get the break you deserve. God Bless you Mike and thanks for sharing your story."
"Sheila, many are in the same situation and worse. Out of work since 08/2007. A short Census gig helped a little. Been through the disaster and the storm. Luckily, found some SNAP or nutrition to get by. The SNAP centers are more crowded than the career centers. There exists too many forces that are against us. Thus, take one day at a time, hope for the best, and get some rest or follow your cat's advice."
"You are an inspiration to me, and I thank you for your honest and heartfelt thoughts. I believe you will make it, and do well. Never give up."
"Very wise words, is this gentleman out of work? The only time I heard him talk about himself is dealing with the CEO of a corporation and this gentleman's illnesses...nothing about losing a job."
"Joe, you're my hero. You explained the situation of the millions of unemployed in a way that truly zeroes in on the reality of the situation. Thank you."
"If the national black American unemployment rate is 16.7% then it is at least 50% among the baby boomers. Unemployment among black citizens over 50 years of age is the worst in history and there has been no enforcement of age discrimination laws. I have associates who have lost their jobs since 2006 and not one of them has received a full time position of any kind regardless of credentials. Many people that I know between the ages of 50 and 70 regardless of personal heritage have mortgaged their home or borrowed money from other sources to improve their skills or to get another degree. We actually speak to each other before 6:00 AM because many of us get up in the wee hours seeking work and hoping for temporary placement reporting by 8:00 AM. Going into debt to further education has proven to be a high risk gamble resulting in further unemployment and mounting debt for black Americans. Many feel they are in too much debt now for start up costs for new business. Most unable to get fur" Read the rest »
"I too have had big age discrimination in employment since I turned 50. Not cute enough anymore. Sickening. I had to look at plenty of not too cute people when I was a bartender."
"Joe, I am from Steubenville and now in Indiana. My did worked at Weirton Steel 39 years and retired in 1976, I thank you for your story. Life was good in the 50's and 60's when I was growing up. About all of the neighborhood men and my parents' friends worked in the mill and had good livings. I still remember all the graphite dust all over the windows giving everything that "orange glow" and everyone feeling it was ok because it was "pay dirt". It is a total shame what has happened to the steel industry in this country."
"Amen brother. I'm in the same age group and know all too well a person can't go back to school, relocate in this housing market or get financing to start a service business."
"I agree about the age discrimination. I've applied to more than 6,000 jobs and I can't even get an interview and I've worked for billion dollar companies my whole life before I was laid off."
"Hi Patrick, I was terminated, but with generous severance, and found I had an aortic aneurysm all in one week. So, I got on with my life, including blogging to deal with fear of the stent (http://athletewithstent.com) and I am following the advice in 'The Four Hour Workweek,' by Tim Ferriss. You have a lot to offer, so work out what it is and bust a gut doing it, but it must be fun. -k @FitOldDog"
"I agree with Diane Magnone, We shouldn't be stereotyped with that style of music. But the fact is that the only way to make Weirton better is change. People don't like change. I come home every year to the same thing. I like the direction the Mayor is trying to go in. Let's make our town something again...."
"Your father is a lucky man to have such a caring daughter. And you are lucky to have him as a role model of resilience, positivity and strength. Here's wishing him -- and your entire family -- a healthy, prosperous future. Take care!"
"thats evryones story thoght mill last forever.my Dad had 40 somethin yrs in,he retired,and 1 month before he died he lost all his pension and benefits they had. i think his worrying and disappointment of all of that transpired caused his death.he always told me if yo took care of your job it would take care of you??????"
"When there's not enough jobs to go around and the government is still rewarding entrepreneurs with tax deductions, it only makes sense to look at business opportunities. The 40-year plan is broken. People who should be retiring are still working. The retirement age is increasing. Being in business offers so many opportunities besides income. There are more people on food stamps now than ever before. "Today SNAP released the most recent food stamp numbers. Not surprisingly, we just saw another all time high 44.2 million poverty-level Americans relying on government funding for day to day sustenance." Even people who are able to find work have a difficult time making ends meet. A full time or part time business is a great way to make additional money, save money on taxes, and regain control over your life. Get out there and make it happen!"
"Instead of being retired, call the name in transition. Hence, we are always in transition and retired refers to extinction as in "Logan's Run." In any event, good luck."
"Hello: Anyone have any new business ideas? I have time, lots of energy and experience in researching, developing, launching and running a national business doing sales of 1-7 million per year gross reveune. We need to share our strength, hope and limited funds to get something going! Are there any "like minded" people out there?? I would love to hear from you. Come on folks we are NOT getting any younger!! I hope some of you will contact me. Best regards, SHM"
"I filed a number of cases of discrimmination with the EEOC. One case particular was the employer, who refused to show up for an interview after completing an application and setting a time frame. On the EEOC compalint, I used age as a more obvious selection. Besides, I gave the employer an opportunity to schedule another interview, where I could bring in my qualifications. Mind you this position did not pay very well. In any event, after an EEOC review of the documents, EEOC ruled that employers can be as arrogant as possible. I responded by stating, "I presumed age however there are other possibilities such as race or nationality." In other words, the employer may be biased were one was born or the color of skin."
"Joe I worked with your dad in the C.A. for over 20 years."
"The documentary was great. It is terrible with happened to Weirton Steel. My whole family worked there at one time or another. I didn't get in so I am still working in the field I chose. WSX strated going down years ago - it wasn't all the goverment (but our govt. including the state officials didn't help us much. My father retired when the employees bought it out - on a pension that was terrible for how many years he worked there. Then they hired all these executives - or what ever you want to call them, gave them huge salaries = more than the president of the United States, they would stay awhile and then they would get huge packages that the mill would pay to then for how ever many years was agreed on. The poor working man in the mill was the ones that got screwed and lost their pensions and jobs -- at young ages (50 or above) and had to go into different fields and collect unemployment for how ever long they could get it and try to find new jobs to support their families and t" Read the rest »
"Dave, you are not alone. There exists millions in similar situation. Furthermore, when discussion age discrimmination with an attorney, age discrimminations falls on deaf ears."
"Michael is doing better than most of us. He can collect early SS. I cannot afford health insurance, as a single woman of 63..it would cost me $250/mth with a 5k deductible. My skillselt has been outsourced to foriegn soils. I live in Florida, where there isn't any jobs in my field. Also, do not forget...companies do not hire older Americans, mainly because of the health insurance rates."
"Why am i seeing alot of IT people on these videos? I thought information technology was one of the jobs of the 21st century Bush was talking about...What BS....Had alot of manufacturing people get retrained in IT as they advised and they got thrown under the bus again."
"I see alot of NJ IT Computer folks on here."
"No Mr. Bond, they expect us to die [they being our Tea Bag controlled government] . That way, we will not reach 62 and the rich can confiscate our social security. You don't think they really want to let us have that money to live in a hut in Uganda do you?"
"The current situation is really starting to wear me out. I don't even have enough hope left to look for a job anymore. I've been unemployed since 3/31/10, the longest time that I've gone without some type of job since high school. If I get the full extension of 99 weeks, that's it and that's all. No more income. I live in IL and the state has just passed a resolution that will only allow people who become unemployed to obtain a maximum of 26 weeks in benefits. I believe that there is a time coming and not too far off, when we will have riots in the streets, like Greece and London. The so-called deal that Congress came up with before they trotted out to enjoy their American taxes paid 5 weeks vacation, didn't even mention the 99'ers or for that matter, unemployment at all, with the exception of giving tax credits to companies that hire Veterans. Great, except companies that are experiencing record earnings are laying current employees off to increase their earnings spread. I really don" Read the rest »
"WAKE UP AMERICA BEFOR IT'S TO LATE."
"You've done a thorough job of documenting the current situation. It's important for people to understand the reality in order to explore their viable options. It's time we all wake up and realize things have changed. Change requires new approaches."
"The only way to lower taxes in reality - PROPOSED: Economic regulative legislation to ease domestic job issues, reduce the deficit and the Social Security shortfall (Pro Jobs Legislation)... In response to solicitations for revenue that generates jobs (e.g. Face the Nation on CBS) here is another source of revenue other than direct taxation we need to use which no one seems to want to talk about, described at http://www.congress.org/soapbox/alert/51246501 and at http://www.rncox.newsvine.com. I've communicated my ideas about this already, re shipping our jobs overseas being at the root of many of our deficit problems. The only way to lower taxes in reality is to increase the overall tax base. GE's recent action reported on CNN (www.cnn.com/caffertyfile), moving their X-Ray business to China, is just another instance of the reason for this proposal. Richard N. Cox 105 Front Street Weirton, WV 26062-4220 eMail: rncox@access995.com (preferred met" Read the rest »
"Ms. Standardi, Tell them we are still trying to get new things in Weirton, such as the plasma gasification tech I'd proposed back in 2003, point them to my web pages. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Recycling-and-Power-Facilities-RPFs/347616143827, and http://www.rncox.newsvine.com. Weirton has all of the things that made a mill work here, ready access to road, river and rail for moving raw materials in and finished products out, and would be a great place for a refinery making methanol, ethanol and biodiesel out of coal, municipal and industrial waste streams, regardless of the specific technology used. Thank You, Richard N. Cox 105 Front Street Weirton, WV 26062-4220 eMail: rncox@access995.com (preferred method of contact) LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/11/75/829 <= my professional profile Independent member, WV Senator Manchin's Project Weirton task group (http://www.wtov9.com/news/5484507/detail.html) Web page: http://www.facebook.com/p" Read the rest »
"Thanks for your support, Jim. Good to hear from you! Congratulations on your success in helping people who are 50+ find jobs."
"Kudos to the producers … This is a great documentation and when they came to Southwest Florida we were not sure what to expect. The stories here are real-life and compelling. Some good news out of SWFL is many of the individual’s features in the documentation have found job. To all, keep plugging away and all the best!"
"I guess a big riot in the streets of all USA is what we need in order to tell the WH and the Congress that, we the 99ers are still us citizen,that we need to support our families and need to pat our debts too,no only the rich and millionaires have the right to live comfortable.As a person in my 61 I don't think that I have any chance to get a job,is sad to became a homeless with no source of money and waiting for our government to do something to help us to survive.Foreing countries and banks have more luck of to be help by USA than their own people.My last check from UI was in March 2010 and since then I don't have any source of income, I was lloking for jobs all over USA and in a foreing country,with no results.So America need to wake up to this situation,I think that we are too comfortable with what is happens in the nation right now,we need to act,no just seating in front of the tv and watch what is happens here we our economy.They try to cut the Social Security wich is the only re" Read the rest »
"I appreciate your thoughtful comments, I have found harboring ill-will doesn't suit me, or help me pursue my future, which I now embrace with the excitement of a child again. My best to all who have suffered from this all too real, and continuing depression, I choose to be thankful for what I have, and can still be, I hope you can too. There's still so much to do, and the time is short."
"My words exactly......but let's try to see this as an opportunity and never, ever give up.....Good luck my friend"
"What are WE all going to do? Will it come to riots in the streets? If your head is not up your ass you must be quite worried and freaked out like I am... There is simply NO answer. If the WH doesn't have one who does? Sick of it but have no where to go! Pissed in LA ~ Any ideas?"
"I really appreciate doing this documentary, and my brother is featured. But. What's up with the banjo-playing introduction? Every time someone does a documentary about WV (Coal mines, the Wild Wonderful Whites, the Point Pleasant bridge collapse) it's always got that stupid banjo intro! how often have any of us really listened to people sitting on their porches pickin banjos in Weirton? I absolutely hate the stereotyping."
"Hello Mr. Williams, Appreciated the post about how to become an older entreprenuer. Have you thought about 'legitimate' networking opportunities? Not the constant array of scam's that people are running these days, but 'legitimate' companies like Mary Kay, and others that have been successful for many, many years. The start up cost and risks are a lot less than risking ones' savings with franchises and the like and the joy of helping others instead of just yourself is a blessing as well. Thanks, keep up the good work. Charles"
"Jeffrey, I am very sorry to read of the problems you are facing. I also checked out about refinancing in 2005, when my husband's unemployment was nearly gone and was told that we had to have a certain level of income to refinance even with good credit history. My substitute teaching pay wasn't enough to qualify for a refinance without my husband's former income. After some research, I found that the banks can't loan to people with certain levels of earnings to credit ratios or the banks eventually go under themselves. They are audited and might become one of the many banks that get listed each Friday as closed due to inadequate debt to asset ratios. I also felt betrayed by the bank to which we had been so faithful in making payments. We then sold our home and built smaller in a less expensive area doing ALL the work ourselves using discounted building supplies. One of our children and family are building a mini home on a trailer bed paying cash for all parts to avoid having a mo" Read the rest »
"As someone who (*knock on wood*) is still working in a corporate job, I'm feeling the insecurity of it. I'm in the beginning stages of starting an online business. And your points of what you need to think about are right on target."
"Please let me know when the documentary is complete and I will feature it on the carepoint seniors blog. Samantha Welch, carepoint.net"
"Thank you, JKL, for your comment. Weirton's story is complex and evolving, and it's good to read about the start of its rebirth, which we hope to experience for ourselves next week. When we make our full-length documentary, it will be about the United States, not just Weirton, and it will also include the positive outcomes that some older jobseekers have been able to create for themselves. Stay tuned!"
"Look around, everything is made in China/Korea/India and on and on, except our own USA. All the outsourcing/call centers are going abroad. Why does it come as a surprise that our millions are unemployed. What do we do? I asked a public official " Why are all the jobs going abroad?" His answer was " Simple, labor is cheaper there " I answered " If we could, we would outsource you also, we can get 10 for the price of one we support here. How would you like that ". There was silence. Many countries impose tarrifs on foreign good to the tune of 100 to 300 percent. They insist that to be able to do business with them, manufacturing has to be done there. How can we compete? By playing the same game. The companies would rather see their next quarter look good as the country goes down the tube. It seems that each company is working in vacuum, not realizing that one by one all manufacturing will go abroad, and there will be no buyers left here. China is too happy to lend us money because even" Read the rest »
"Thank you, Joni. We're headed back to Weirton next week to do more shooting for a full-length documentary. Weirton is a special place with fascinating people. We're eager to get back there."
"Weirton is 30 min. from where I grew up. Getting a job in a steel mill was a great career path for my father's generation & also for my generation. My father lost his steel mill job forever when he was 60 years old (late 1970's). Another generation in this area tells the same story.. which isn't any different from manufacturing workers in any other part of the US. Very well done documentary in the making. I look forward to your future videos. Blessings, Joni"
"Please don't say your wife and children don't love you... I am sure at least your kids love you. I feel your pain. I will be 51 in a few weeks and I have been out of work since 2009. I have been on dozens and dozens of interviews but no one will hire me! I was clearly suited for many of the positions I applied for. I guess I am experiencing age discrimination. And now I don't I don't know where to go or what to do. Do I retrain? I am not sure. Good luck to you. I wish you the best."
"I have just turned 50 and have been unemployed since 2009. I have been on at least 30 interviews. I have no income coming in which gets old fast. I am very disappointed."
"Gosh, this is so depressing!"
"Yeah...this is so unfair. My friend in this boat didn't even want to live anymore when suppossed to be happy in retirement. Lucky for him he found something...."
"Now I'm just about to get retired,in April 2012 is when I have to apply,cuz my B.D. is in July and I will be 62.Those will be the longest 10 months that I have to wait in my life.Other thing is that with my money I can't live in USA,so I will have to moved to Colombia or Peru where the money worth and I can live with decense and happiness."
"Yes is a disgrace that a person on his 50's loose his job,got sick and is turned down every time I applied for a job.Now I'm 61 lost my job in 2008 as a Lowe's employee due to a cancer,now I'm doing ok, but I can't find a job cuz of my age and my health history.I tried to get my retirement,but the person in SS office told me,you are too young to retire but too old to get a job,wich I guess she was right.I became a 99er in March 2010 and since then I don't have any income,so I became a homeless,lost my car, apartment and my friends,noy even your family wants to take you if you don't have at least one source of income.I never realize that I will be on my 60's without any job,I always thought that when I retired it will be with dignity,but now I feel like a piece of shit,a person that nobody wants to have around cuz you will be a problem for them....this is my sad reality."
"I sympathize w/ you. I am in the same predicament never been unemployed in my life I am 59 and having difficulty procuring a new job. I truly believe it is age discrimination! I am at a loss as to my situation. BOA lost my refinance paperwork three different times charged me penalties for being late with my mortgage, added the penalties totalling $20,000.00 to my mortgage. I am totally disgusted w/ them."
"I'm 62 and it took me over to 2 yrs to land my minium wage job, and they really didn't want to hire me."
"What I find to be especially infuriating is that I know more about office software than most 20 year olds. Yet most companies will only hire recent grads. The government has got to have a policy of only hiring over 50. They are the only people who will do it as the scumbugs in private industry won't. We're lucky if they even do any hiring in this country. They should be thrown out of the country if they outsuorce....and anything coming in should be taxed 500% to make sure that no one can afford to buy it."
"Like Marie, I looked after two ill parents for about a decade, and now that I've been looking actively for work for the last three years....the few jobs that are out there, always seem to go to someone else. At present, I'm at or near the top of the list for 3 municipal jobs, but I keep getting told that there's no funding for the jobs. In the next two weeks, I plan to take 2 more tests, hoping for the best. I admit that I have to borrow from a relative, just to get by. Sadly, no one seems to know or care, that looking after sick family members, is no picnic in the park. I wish you the best of luck in your job search, Marie; hoping your dream job is yours VERY soon."
"I work as a volunteer for AARP and the number 1 reason older workers say they have not been able to find a job...age discrimination. 1 in 5 who are unemployed are over 50. I know I've experienced this myself and it is a huge problem. Also a lot of people have medical problems and this is a factor as well. I know people who take part time jobs (if they can even find those) if they can't find full time work. 1 in 7 families are now on food stamps."
"........At a time when weve got some of the greatest income disparity in the United States since the Gilded Age Villager David Brooks thinks were not going to be able to solve the problem with our deficit unless seniors and the middle class are ready for some shared sacrifice. Which in Villager speak means fixing those problems on the hides of those who can afford it least while the rich keep their tax breaks..Brooks does agree that we need to raise taxes on the rich to some degree but of course qualifies that with the typical talking point that no matter how high their taxes were raised it would not fix the deficit problem..And like every other Republican out there he pretends our Congress would ever actually vote to close the tax loopholes for the rich and not just end up sticking it to the middle class instead in the name of fiscal responsibility while their big money donors keep their deductions in place..I would love to see David Brooks have to spend a few days in some senior citi" Read the rest »
"During the past generation the American middle-class family that once could count on hard work and fair play to keep itself financially secure has been transformed by economic risk and new realities. Rocked by rising prices for essentials as mens wages remained flat both Dad and Mom have entered the workforcea strategy that has left them working harder just to try to break even. Even with two paychecks family finances are stretched so tightly that a very small misstep can leave them in crisis."
"Hi Kelly: Thanks for your note. Please tell me more ~ contact information, website/URL, corporate name, company history and who the executive officers are so I can investigate and determine IF it is something I would be interested in and a venture that I could share my experience with and make a positive impact. Please NO MLMs (Multi-level Marketing) business concepts or PONZI deals!! Thanks -"
"One solution for out of work homeowners is to lower the age of eligibility for "reverse" mortgages to 50 or 55. Then older folks could tap into their homes equity to pay off the existing mortgage, relieve the burden of ever making a mortgage payment (unless they refi in the future), and possibly give them some cash in hand each month. Since the official name is "home equity conversion mortgage", you need some equity to convert to present money. However, if a home is underwater, or doesn't qualify for an amount sufficient to pay off present financing, then the bank either has to take a "short refinance", somewhat similar to a short sale, or the bankers need to create an equity sharing instrument so that what the bank can't get now, they can get when the house is sold or at upon some agreed event. I'm sure smart bankers can figure out an instrument that would work. Another huge game changer would be for FNMA to allow short refi's. Currently FNMA will not accept reductions in princi" Read the rest »
"Sandy, I am sorry to hear about your situation. I have marketing and promotion business marketing a unique service and am looking for someone to come on board to help me. This is service helps people across the US and Canada and is provided by a NYSE change company. Please let me know if this might interest you."
"Sorry Mike, I've been out of work for 3 years now, my skills are not outdated! I'm just 55 years old. God Bless you and your family, unfortunately in todays world I think kids who want to go to college need to work for it and not depend on the parents. Not being mean just reality."
"Ok, so you tracked these stories and trackd their success or not successes...ummm...what good is it, try being over 50 and out of work for 3 years! Yes there is a BIG problem out there for "mature" workers and all of us just talk about it, lets fight, lets walk right up to the white house and ask WHY isn't someone doing something about this crap??? They say we cost them more, how? Seems to me it would be less cost in training! They say they would have to pay us more, well let us make that decision, not you! Sick of this whole thing, someone made the comment we should make the "Over 50 Party". I'm game!!"
"Thank you so much for doing this. People do not realize this is happening everywhere. Workers over 50 had good jobs that they did well prior to 2008. Why would they not be responsible, valuable employees now? They would be, they just can't afford to work part time for 7.50 an hour unless they are subsidized by the Government. We want to be free of all benefits and return to a "reasonably paid" full time position, working hard and making enough to live on for our families without needing a helping hand from State Government."
"My plan for getting America back to work: #1 Make being an :intern: subject to Equal Opportunity and age discrimination laws. No Kidding why should someone older be told they are OVERQUALIFIED? That is just mean and nasty to someone willing to work for little or no pay to keep a recent job in their field at the top of their resume. #2 Eliminate all extended unemployment after 26 weeks UNLESS you are in an Intern job or in job training. Again if some employer tells me I am TOO OLD to be an intern well the UI office can make it hard for them to do business. #3 Quit being NASTY and demanding welfare recipients find work.........again no kidding From personal experience the NYC back to work programs are an incredible waste of taxpayers money....Rude nasty very little if any help. It is a Boondoggle and the only people who they serve are Goodwill Arbor Fegs employees by getting paid every two weeks. What to do to sound tough on getting government " Read the rest »
"They don't care. If they cared they could make it a capital crime for any CEO's company to discriminate on age. But they don't care at all. If the people in congress cared they would long ago have made it a crime to discriminate. But the health insurance companies rule the day. Money rules all."
"Thats fantastic! You guys are doing a great job..keep up the good work and dont lose hope! This is a huge accomplishment!!!"
"Unfortunately (or fortunately), I am a 99er. Not by choice, mind you. Lay off's occurred and our center being shut down. Although I consider myself fortunate since I was 62 when this happened. I did not want to retire and would have liked to have worked until 66. I managed a medical records department, working as a transcriptionist as well as creating medical charts. Multi-tasking to the max. Do I think I will get another job. Deep down - no. But still trying. No doubt to the ire of the 2011 grads, both high school and college. Oh well...I may be a "baby boomer" but in my heart I know I bring experience and loyalty to any employment area."
"Thank you Tim for those kind words. They were very encouraging to my spirit. I have learned to be content in whatever state I find myself (according to the Bible). How I manage to keep control of my situation is to trust and depend upon God for He promised to supply all of my needs and He has thus far. We often worry about things we have no control over and make our situation worse when our health fail due to all of the stress. I am learning how to stress less and trust more in the Almighty God who is able to keep me (us) from falling and present us faultless before His throne with exceeding joy. Put your trust in God and obey His Word and everything will work together for your good because He loves you. Take care!"
"This lady has it going. How she can remain uber-positive in the face of this current economic climate is a testimony to her inner strength. Cheryl, you will land on your feet. Of that I am certain!"
"Transition may be permanent but time waits for no man or woman. What many of us fear is time because we are so close to that "magic" retirement age. Sorry but I'm not willing to "have to" change jobs...whenever I get hired...several times before 65. Retirement for me, at the moment, is a 4 letter word because I will never have...unless I win the lottery...enough money to retire:( And I have a strong feeling that quite a number of folks are in the same boat!"
"Yes, we are or rather were, defined by our vocations and achievement along the lines of excellence. We grew up with that sense of "Norman Rockwell American Values" with guidance that if we study hard, go to college and graduate we then would be rewarded with being able to find a good job. All of these things have apparently changed now and are "so yesterday". The question remains as to what they are changed too?"
"This is a really compelling video!"
"This was a very inspiring post. I think that the concept of empowering people to share their gifts is important. In my own work, I attempt to encourage people to start businesses with their skills. However, not everyone wants to go through the effort to start a business, they just want to share. This short post provides great thoughts on how to do that. It also points us to what sounds like a book that will have many more valuable insights."
"That is an interesting interview, although it made me a bit uncomfortable to hear her make comments about baby boomers "not knowing how to download a file". As a baby boomer with great computer skills, I'd rather not have this type of mythology (baby boomers don't know which end of the computer to use) promulgated. There's enough negative generalizations out there already."
"I remember Senator Inouye from The Watergate Hearings. We called him "Senator "Ain't no way" because he wasn't going to stand for the baloney! I think being "Middle aged" is just a state of mine or a phrase. Many of my buddies from high school and college who are my age are talking about being older Americans. We reach a "certain" point in time,different for each individual where our bodies start to differe with our brains. Our minds are still 25 ish and then all of a sudden we aren't anymore as those aches and pains start to appear:)"
"No surprise to me that those are the extent of the responses you've gotten. I've been contacting my Senators and Reps and attempting, unsuccessfully, to contact Senators and Reps in other states regarding the unemployment situation(for all ages), the lack of consequences for the crooked banks, and on a variety of other topics all pertinent to our decimated economy. I, and many other unemployed like me, have attempted to make our voices heard through emails, phone calls, twitters....They really don't seem to be listening and, unfortunately, the feeling a lot of us are getting is that we, the unemployed(especially the unemployed in their 40s and 50s and older) are expendable. We are simply collateral damage. It's absolutely shameful how willing those in power are to ignore this huge and growing bigger daily, problem."
"The employment discrimination in the country is at an all time high and needs to be fixed period. We need to live just like everyone else, and it's very hard to do when salaries are going down 20K to 30K or more and prices are going through the roof. Our water fees are going up 7.5% in Queens, NY - (NOT SALARIES)...!!!!!...What's wrong with this picture??????"
"Diane, USA.gov has a page http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml that lists all elected officials and you can search by state. Thank you!"
"Great ideas, Diane! Here is the description that we pasted in to the contact forms: For the past year, we have been traveling across the United States conducting video interviews with Americans who are Over 50 and Out of Work at http://www.overfiftyandoutofwork.com/ We would invite you to add your Comments to our multimedia documentary project. In the Great Recession, older Americans are unemployed at record rates and for longer periods of time than ever before. Over the past 10 years, many boomers have also seen the value of their homes and savings decline precipitously, and they have less time than younger workers to recoup their losses and regain financial equilibrium. Moreover, they face a daunting uphill battle against age discrimination and a bias directed against the unemployed when they seek new jobs. Please take a look at the stories we have documented – together, they forge a remarkable American geographic and socioeconomic mosaic. We currently have 75 i" Read the rest »
"Do you have a "template" that you used to contact the people, such as a form letter, that others could use? Also, I am wondering is there is a way to have a database of all the pertinent people in one place that others could use. For instance, if I found all the Pennsylvania representatives, I could put their emails or websites in a database, and other people could find it. And I want to say to the honorable Mr. Inouye, Dude, I'm not elderly!"
"What a wonderful idea! I'm super-impressed. Best of luck to you. (BTW, I studied to be an opera singer, and then went on to work in a bank for a couple of decades.)"
"Dear Over-50 people, What is wrong is that the US lacks any industrial policy worth a damn. What is also wrong is that we have banksters running and ruining everything. I have covered a few of the policies that have brought us to this point. Please do not think that because I mention Obama, that I am leaving out bad policies made by Bush and Clinton both. There have been bad decisions made about the economy since the 1970s. In the interest of brevity, I am only covering the last 30 years or so. What is really sad about the current situation is that quietly, behind the scenes, there are a lot of cheerleaders for 'THE FREE MARKET" who are gently recommending Keynesian economics again. Their problem is how to push that without admitting that they took this country on an adventure through "discredited economics 101" for the third or fourth time. That's right. We tried these same stupid policies in the past and they resulted in Depressions every time. How do I know this? I " Read the rest »
"Great! I'll have to check out your bakery next time I'm up your way."
"Mike, Autodesk has a program for unemployed designers and architects - the Autodesk Assistance Program. Go to this website: www.autodesk.com/assistanceprogram, sign up and you can start downloading software for free. It will get you a 3-year student license that you can use to brush up on your 3D skills. The site also includes a ton of videos and tutorials to help get you started. I hope this helps. We did a survey of the program participants last year, and 75% of them said that when they go for job interviews, technology proficiency is the second most important thing employers are looking for, second only to years of experience. Best of luck to you, and please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or need anything else. Best, Angela"
"I would venture to guess that Mike never expected, when he volunteered for this video, to become the headline story on the Huffington Post! Mike, if you're reading these comments, I would like to say how much I admire you for being human and showing us how unemployment has affected your life and that of your family. If you read some of the negative comments on HuffPo, just remember that for every heartless person who sits at his/her computer taking potshots at the world, there are many of us who are just like you - who are feeling the same doubts and pain you are. We never expected to be treated like the line items on a profit or loss statement. Something is very wrong with our country when so many millions of people have worked their whole lives and raised families only to encounter the suffering and despair of joblessness so close to the time when they might have expected to continue working in a career spanning several decades, to see their children able to attend college, and t" Read the rest »
"Someone on Huffington Post posted this message and I thought it might help... Posted by Angela Simoes This post is specifically for Mike Risinger if anyone knows how to reach him. The Autodesk Assistance Program provides free software to designers and architects who are out of work. This is a great way for him to learn the 3D CAD skills that the companies are looking for and make himself attractive to employers again. Just go to this website and sign up: www.autodesk.com/assistanceprogram. Hope this helps. I hope this helps too, over 40 here and out of work myself... Mo"
"If I were this person, I would start helping people out with their computers. I continually have problems with my computer; when I have bigger issues, I would love to have someone to call that's not going to charge me through the nose."
"Go to usajobs.gov There are several opening in the federal government you may qualify for."
"I am in an architecture-related profession in the Cleveland area. I am told that our unemployment is around 60%, and is not likely to recover for at least ten years or longer. I am 63 years and was forced to start Social Securiity to pay mortgage. Live-in girlfriend works one full-time and one part-time jobs, and has been unsympathetic that I can not just go out and find another job, although I have tried. This has been devastating in our lives, and I see no way to improve the situation. Your discussion confirms the situation that so many of us find ourselves in after lifetimes of productivity (I starting working when I was 12)."
"My boyfriend and I are 99ers and homeless. We were laid off in August 2008. We are living in our car. Family has turned its back on us and friends help when they can. I'm physically, mentality and emotionally exhausted! Don't know how much longer we can sleep in our car."
"Heartbreaking interviews. I am also laid off as of January 2001."
"Great write-up and actually aids with understanding the subject better."
"I have been unemployed since June 2009. I had a job at a call center for AT&T and after being there for a year I received a 9 cent an hour raise. Two weeks later I was fired! Unbelieveable, I thought maybe this would be my final job until Social Security kicked in. Boy was I wrong. Now I am looking at my last month of unemployment benefits (yes, the place where I worked did not even fight my claim!) I have applied everywhere online and here in town. The veteran's rep. cannot even give me a decent lead on a job in this town. My wife and I have been homeless before and believe me we do NOT want to go back to that terrible situation! No one can even imagine what that is like unless they have been themselves. I am seeing a counselor at the Veteran's Outpatient clinic for depression and stress. Drugs cannot help me get a job and they seem to be useless as I have been on them so long. We can spend tons of money to help Libya, Afghanistan and every other country but not to help people who" Read the rest »
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"Dear Sheila, I will pray for you and your family to recover from these job losses. You seem to have a dear spirit and a lovely personality. If you lived near me, I'd invite you over for a cup of tea. It shocks me that so many nice, hardworking people are suffering from job loss right now. My husband and I have been through a corporate down-sizing and understand what you are going through. Moving to a smaller home in the country helped us cut down on our costs. Many unexpected blessings have come our way in the 8 years since my husband was laid off including two part time jobs for me that each lasted two years. I hope good things like that will happen for you also. I also hope you have help with your health insurance somehow. God bless you. - K. Rostad"
"I wish to say how touched I was by Deborah's interview. There is a woman who sees life clearly and isn't making any excuses, who's reinventing herself and at the same time being foreclosed on. If Deborah can't have some job security after fifteen years in the same job, who can? We are destroying the lives of so many people and sometimes I wonder if it is a plan to impoverish us all and have a nation of peasants, or if it's simply bad judgement on the part of our government and corporations. It certainly isn't Deborah's fault - you can see that the minute she begins speaking. If Deborah reads this, I want to tell you that I love the person you are and wish you the very VERY best in your search for a job."
"I am so sorry for what you are going through. There can be nothing as frustrating as being downsized. The stress of not having money coming in can be unbelievable. We watched 20,000 other people lose their jobs at the same company over a 20 year period before my husband was laid off. The company first changed health insurance, then cut back vacation length and carry over into the next year. Then it canceled standard retirement plans and went to 401K's. Meanwhile it hired temporaries to maximize profits. Following that, my husband was told by his new boss that two people coming out of college could be hired for what he was earning. He had 25 years of continuous education totaling more than 100 classes in his field, in addition to his two degrees. We were later told that the same boss was wondering where the computer programmer went. I guess because it wasn't in the job title, the boss didn't know that my husband did that for them on the side, in addition to understanding how to " Read the rest »
"This is a great service, thank you. How can we find out more about your organization? Is it a nonprofit? Is it also called Over Fifty and Out of Work, or something else? Where is it located? How is it funded? Etc. Also, is there any way to reach you via ordinary email, or by a simpler contact form. I would like to contact you privately (i.e., not in a public comment or on your FB page) for reasons other than putting my story on your site, but the only contact option on the site is the contact form for submitting a personal story. thanks, Pat"
"A small and short lived tax break for the self employed.. Neat :)"
"Hi, You have latched on to a real idea, ie "co-operative housing. I am turning 63 the end of the month, a boomer, and am part of the trail blazering generation who lived in "communes", although I never did so myself. I have been facinated by the idea, ala "kibbutzes". For those who need it, I believe "pooling resources" , ie housing and transportation for our generation is a coming necessity. Many of us do not have children, or have children who live all over the world. Bartering, co-ops, etc is the wave of the future, I believe, but do something before you have no assets left to do it with. Good luck to you and yours,"
"Hi, I am systematically reading through everyone's story, but yours strikes me as outstanding. You are a "problem" solver in that you seem to be able to access any situation and proceed from there, especially in your personal life. I do have one suggestion, which I also give to my husband, who is 64 and still working, thank God........shave the grey part of your beard. Unless you want to work with the Amish, you would appear younger without it. Your thinking process is that of a much younger person, and I feel you handicap yourself by keeping the grey part. Please take this critique in the spirit with which it is given.....and Good Luck ! This "advice" is given to you with the best of wishes, and hopes for your future. You will be an asset to anyone who employs you."
"I filed a lawsuit against Costco Wholesale and 2 pharmacists, who I felt discriminated against me because of age, disability. When I took it to upper management, the retaliation and harrassment was horrendous. Last week, Costco was fond not guilty in a 3 week long trial. I felt I had the best lawyers and I know they gave it there all. Jurors voiced their frustration with the juror instructions when we spoke after the trial. While I am devastated, I want to continue to be an advocate for us baby boomers ( I'm 57), who I know are experiencing this everyday, and it's only going to get worse. Do you have any ideas or suggestions, on on to carry forward with my crusade to make a guilty verdict on age discrimination more attainable? Or how I could work with people who are going through this sad, thoughtless plight. I was just looking through internet and found you. Perhaps there was a reason...:) Denise Krivitsky"
"That is tough Harvey. Why do you think that you haven't even been called for one interview? Is the competition in your work field especially fierce? Looking at your profile on LinkedIn, I am wondering which kinds of jobs you are looking for (applied for)? If you list some of them, maybe someone here might see one of them listed in their area or perhaps in a job resource you do not know about, and can relay that information to you."
"Hi Michael. If you could post a bit about more about your situation, there might be someone here who might have some possibilities for you. Your work background, state and perhaps city you live in, any limiting issues (health, etc.) that might prevent you from doing certain jobs, and whether you would be willing (and able) to move to a new location for a job, are some of the things you might post."
"Michael, thank you for visiting our site and sharing your experience. I hope that you are going to a job support group, so that you do not feel alone. If there is anything we can do -- help you locate a group or pass on job search links that others are using, let us know. Please take a look at the posts in our general comments section -- we have many caring site visitors and some of their advice and tips may be useful to you."
"Born in 1955, I started working when I was in high school. I always believed that no matter what happened, there would always be a job of some kind for me just in case anything fell through. Now here I am, 55 years old, unemployed, a 99er, and there is absolutely nothing out there to be found. I'm fighting desperation, depression, guilt, and trying to keep a positive outlook. But this is really, really hard."
"J.T., I'm not sure if this comment goes to you directly. I wanted to comment on the "Try something new to find a job in 2011" post on the 'Over 50 and out of work" blog. As I was reading, I found the statistics unbelievable, at least based on my own search difficulties and me being 'over 50 and out of work'. If I had known of the blog, I would have jumped on the contest. Lord knows I need help. I've been sending out resumes and networking for one year. I have not been called for one (yes, I have never been called to) interview. The text on (this) your page is not legible. There are places to enter my name, email, and website, but those spaces cover text of your article. Bottom line, I do not want to miss out on your next contest. I will be glad to share my story with your readers and make my best effort to win an amazing offer and contest. Thanks for taking the time to read this, Harvey Justmann hjustmann@sbcglobal.net 216-533-3050"
"I couldn't agree more not only from my experience with my clients over the past several years but also personally. My husband who will turn 65 this year has been looking for work for 2 years."
"The job market has gotten worse in the last 24 months for the middle aged worker . Many of us are alittle to young to retire, or need to work. We can't live without money coming in anymore than any other age group can. What are we to do if they do not pass the 14 weeks of 99 extension. The bill that passed the extension for one year in late 2010 only covered people with more recent problems in the depression. I do not call it a recession when the levels are where they were in the great depression. This bill for 14 weeks to 99er's needs DESPARATELY to be passed if only for the middle aged who are being disciminated against so badly. If we are going to have laws on the books that fight discrimination, WE NEED TO MAKE THEM WORK. THEY DON:T"
"Great story! This illustrates the important role of entrepreneurship in a down economy. FIELD at the Aspen Institute also recommends searching our U.S. directory of microenterprise programs. It provides a listing of organizations by state that can help aspiring business owners with both training and financing: http://fieldus.org/Publications/2008/index.html Best of luck!"
"Fabulous interview! I am delighted to say that Regina is a really special individual and incredible friend! I'm so happy to have been able to help with the internet marketing and their online presence. She and her daughter Becca have done an amazing job of continuing the efforts of spreading their viral presence online! As they say here in Maryland "You go Girl!""
"To hear Mr. Vinson imply that the 10% unemployment rate is a tainted statistic is a very humbling thought. He's absolutely right in that there are thousands of unemployed people that aren't even on "paper." This interview is as real as it gets! While sad and true, I believe that resources like this serves as a "kick in the butt" and a wake up call to younger people of our generation. I say this because I'm realizing that today's youth aren't taking their futures too seriously. In most cases, our own government isn't really on our side. With the consistent outsourcing of jobs by greedy business owners to the way our veterans are treated, we have to develop a sense of self-reliance. It's become plainly obvious that unlike decades of past, we cannot allow ourselves to become complacent with degrees and other forms of paper. While they may increase odds of landing employment, no guarantees come along with it. I have to say that this is my first time on this website and I am already " Read the rest »
"Some valuable information here. She notes that a bigger concern that age may be that you are overqualified. This is an issue for many older workers and it's critical to be prepared to address it. Here is my blog with help on the issue of being overqualified: http://blog.jobfully.com/2010/08/youre-overqualified-what-are-they-really-saying/ I hope this is helpful in figuring out and addressing the true concerns of the employer."
"I've always worked for myself and I'm still in business, but everything is harder. The easy days of making money are over. I wrote a song about two years ago describing how a successful business owner's life was changed by the economic collapse. The first lines (and chorus) are: "I used to be tall, but now I am shorter Brother won't you please come and lend me a quarter." You can read the rest of the lyrics here: http://musicforhumanity.org/musicians/members/11/blog.php These are tough times and I don't have any real answers."
"Joel, I'd hire you in a NY minute if I could. You're right about us Boomers. By and large we never wanted for much of anything unlike our parents who were children of the Depression but you're a shining example of how resourceful our age group can be. Hang in there buddy! Lou"
"I was very impressed with your assessment of being unemployed, of retrenching your financial life in order to go on, even if you had to take a loss in the short term. We have been in a similar situation. My husband was given notice of his upcoming lay-off at age 53, one month after the company learned he had diabetes. The electronics industry was in the midst of huge lay-offs at the time. I kept working as a substitute teacher while we consolidated our assets and property, moving to a very basic home in the countryside and selling our home in town. Our COBRA payments following the lay-off, and for 2 years, were $1100 per month, using up our severance pay. I took a half-time job, which was offered to me, as a para-ed and then became a part-time pre-school teacher with my own classroom again. The discount COBRA was unavailable to us in 2003 and 2004, but our state of Washington, offered a low cost health insurance for those with a low income, which we made use of when our severance " Read the rest »
"Deborah is terrific. Highly energetic, entrepreneurial and motivated to help others. Check out her site at www.deborahshane.com for more info."
"This woman is a great woman! Deborah Shane is a very smart and savvy person. I have no doubt this woman will be a success. She looks great, has a good head on her shoulders, is lucid, has a good handle on her situation, has gumption.........I'd follow her advice, she is the best! Good luck to you Deborah. You have inspired me to continue and move on. I just turned 60 also. Thank you for the motivation. We ain't dead yet."
"Joel, have you checked the website Idealist (www.idealist.org) for a possible position? You mention that you have been involved with grants for a lot of your working life. This website is one of the best compendiums of nonprofit organizations (and the resources they offer and need). Your grant writing might give you an edge with some of the jobs some of these nonprofits are offering."
"Hello Fellow Boomers! I am firm and adament believer that our generation, having grownup between the experience of the depression and today's technology, will lead our own generation, the melleniums and those beyond through this maze of extremes. We have been blessed to have been born for a time such as this. Only the boomers understand how to bridge this gap, for only "we" have the combined knowledge of the past and the present. It's up to us to do the hard things first in order to blaze a new path for ourselves, or children, and grandchildren. After all, one thing that we all know and understand well is, "things change!' Change is in our natures and it's integrated in our DNA. I would appreciate hearing from anyone willing to come together, put our heads together and brainstorm using our combined knowledge and experience to support ourselves and each other. There is a mass of business, personal, and professional know how, right here on the "Over Fifty and Out of Work" w" Read the rest »
"Great video! Thanks for your work in the research that made this video possible. I will share this with my brother who has been out of work for the past two years. Stephen"
"The Long Island Breakfast Club is still going to hold meetings and still assist those that need support for finding jobs. The LIBC will also steer a new direction to provide the organizations expertise as a consultive entity. The LIBC is NOT down and out for the count. The LIBC is better and stronger than ever for 2011. Email or contact the LIBC for more details about its vision for 2011."
"Try being 68 and out of work since end-October 2008. About to run out of unemployment. Fortunately I do have Social Security. I WANT to work at an age when I SHOULD be retired...and I'm about to lose my unemployment. No one value the life and work experience of older workers. They are missing a great opportunity by not hiring me for part-time work (up to 20H/week)."
"Michael, your story is an excellent real-life example of "underemployment". It is a shame that there is not some way to measure this along with the current unemployment figures. I saw a post recently on the web that mentioned that during the Great Depression, those who were no longer looking for work (the discouraged) were included in the commonly cited 25% unemployment figure. Today, if those same discouraged folks were included in the unemployment numbers (they are not), the true current unemployment would be around 16.8%. Plus add in the "underemployed" like yourself, and a much truer picture of the economy emerges. There is no doubt that, in general, businesses out there do not want the higher unemployed/underemployed figures published or disseminated since that likely would only reduce public confidence in the economy and thus could start a negative feedback loop, of budget cuts with businesses and governments and layoffs (which could even further affect the over 50 portion o" Read the rest »
"Out of work since 4/09. Working part time (no chance of full time where I work) making 600.00-700.00 per month, and nothing for two months in the summer. I'm almost 51 with health problems (not from overweight) and suffering from depression. No one gets it."
"You and me both, MG. I think the media is particularly bad and the media in the UK even worse."
"For those potential entrepreneurs, there are a couple of resources that could be useful to some individuals in some situations. Those individuals who have some talent at making things (or painting, creating, etc.), a website called Etsy.com is a marketplace for all things handmade. It could be a possible way to earn some extra money, and/or if the talent is there, a new source of employment. To those who are employed, buying things on the site would help keep someone employed. The second resource is a website called SmartFlix.com. They have a plethora of how-to videos for rent on a wide range of topics. Some individuals could use these videos to attain enough skills to do certain jobs. And these jobs could help them get some additional income in some cases."
"Although I am self-employed, I have tried to follow the issues surrounding the downturn in the economy and especially unemployment. From my perspective, it appears to me that a wide range of businesses used the downturn in the economy as a reason (or excuse) to shed themselves of not only the short-term costs of wages, but more significantly the long-term costs they were facing with workers who had pension benefits due to them (or soon to be due them as in George's case). I think also, the businesses shed themselves of those employees who were a bigger liability in terms of potential health care costs to the firms, short-term and long-term. No doubt, employees over 50 were more likely to have all of these qualities which, again in my view, made them prime targets for dismissal. AND, more importantly, it is an often unstated reason why employers are not wanting to hire them now. I do not think that there was any kind of conspiracy among businesses to do this, but I do think they a" Read the rest »
"Tom- This is great...not great happy, but great words that clearly tell how it is. 2011 HAS to be better! Our prayers will continue... Love-"
"I copied Deborah's update from the general comments section and added it here: Sue, When you interviewed me I was in SWFL, I am now back home in SEFL, Miami/Ft Lauderdale! I really appreciate you allowing me to share my story of reinvention, transition and hope. Life continues with everything that we’ve done and all the wonderful skills and qualities that we have. “Career transition is another beginning and an adventure”. I am living proof of that, especially after 50! Great work."
"Unemployed machinists are buying up used machines from bankrupt manufacturers and making a killing subcontracting small parts manufacturing and rebuilding specialty parts from their garage. Corporate debt and expenses are causing products and services to be cut, leaving wide open business opportunities for entrepreneurs in that market niche."
"What a great resource!"
"Steve, thank you very much for your helpful comments directed at entrepreneurs on our site. How did you find us? In January 2011, we will be doing some interviewing in Pennsylvania where there is a program to help people found companies. Several laid-off older workers have used the resources offered by the program to help them launch their new businesses. Please continue to add your thoughts and the benefit of your experience as a small business owner to our site."
"I have a small service business in Tennessee--pressure washing, awning cleaning and gutter cleaning--and I would be happy to assist anyone who is interested in starting this kind of business in their area. I have been self-employed for most of my adult life from the time I graduated college. If you are individual who thinks that you would like to be in business for yourself, then there are some local resources that can help you get started. However, these resources, from my experience, are often too general in nature. One way to get specific information on running a particular business is to get a newspaper from another area of the country than your own and check the business directory of the newspaper (near the classifieds usually). Look for a type of business you would like to be involved in. If you have few funds to get started, then choose one that requires low startup resources. Then, get a few back issues of the newspaper and see which advertisers in that section have be" Read the rest »
"Bob posted this update in our general comments section, and I added it here: I was one of the first to be interviewed by Sue when she started this project, and wanted to provide a follow-up to my video. In late October, I landed a consulting position as an IT Project Manager at a global manufacturing firm. It is a great opportunity and I am very pleased to have landed there. If there is one lesson that my transition has taught me, it is that transition is permanent, and jobs are temporary. As a result, I continue to network and help others in their employment quest. Thank you Sue, for giving me the opportunity to tell my story."
"Maureen, thank you for your comment."
"I'm not quite 50 yet (49), but I have run into the same kind of discrimination on the few job interviews I've had. Invariably they tell me I'm "overqualified" - which is code for anything from "you're too old" to "you're likely to leave when something better comes along". I've checked in at each one a few weeks later, ostensibly to see if there are any new openings, and every time the person they hired is half my age - with 1/4 of my intellect and 1/10 my experience. I came up with an alternative to the Obama/GOP tax plan that would help reverse that trend by giving the tax breaks to employers that hire directly from the unemployment rolls, and scaling them so that the largest incentives were paid for hiring the 99ers and long-term unemployed. That would have helped get us back to work, and helped boost the economy too. http://hiretrainretainact.blogspot.com/ Give it a read when you have a chance, and if you agree, share it with others. Whether or not we can get any att" Read the rest »
"Thank you for bringing Mr. Dan Sato's story. It was a refreshing one to hear amidst the time of confusion. It really empowers me to do better in life and my academic life as a student. And I really do agree that this recession is a curious one."
"I used the information from this clip for my presentation in a class. The word "stereotype" is widely used nowadays, but this clip provided me a whole new version of a stereotype. I think the results of this research has a variety of possibilities to be applied in education or policy for both younger and older people. I am extremely grateful to both researchers and creators of this website for making this research available to the public."
"My heart goes out to Rick. He could be my husband who lost his job in August of 2007. Similar way, similar feelings and emotions and same results."
"We are soon to be one of them too--any week. Over fifty and unemployed after working your whole life is the hardest challenge we have ever faced. Top that off with I live in Florida where it is ever worse."
"There were 30 people at the event, chanting: Obama, Jobs!; Bernanke, Jobs!; Schumer, Jobs! We want work! G O P can't see! Open the vaults! We need a J O B to E A T among others."
"Thank you very much, Carol. I will make sure he gets your generous comment."
"Mr. McClatchey of Michigan seems flexible, making me wonder if he would like to help my brother in Walled Lake, Michigan. He is doing a landmark business in real estate, leasing homes and other propreties for people who leave to find jobs elsewhere. My brother has been in property management for 30 years and is very hardworking and honest. From time to time he hires people to work for him as managers, etc. Please have Mr. McClatchey respond if he's interested. I don't know if my brother pays health or retirement benefits."
"I am 50 and have been out of work for 17 months. I have applied for hundreds of positions with the company that eliminated my job. I was and am willing to relocate. I was successful with my company and never missed a day of work for the 6 years I worked for this company. I started as a greeter in 2003, became a Customer Service Representitive, Retail Sales Representitive and was promoted to a District Sales Consultant. After doing a good job in that position I was promoted to a Regional Sales Consultant for Southern California. My inititive was retail to business and lead the region to the top in the enterprise, because of this, there was not a need for a consultant and my job was eliminated. I have applied for Business Sales, Manager and Assistant Manager positions, Retail Sales, and Customer Service Positions. No luck! I have never even had a face to face interview. I had a couple of telephone interviews, but in most cases I recieved a letter (Email) stating "I was no" Read the rest »
"Your work is commendable Susan. Very informative and astute insights from Susan and Mike...missing: action plans, for employer, employee, educators and society to change these perceptions and the new Paradigm that the Information Age has created.Thank you Susan for keeping me in the loop. Bob My typing skills are close to pre-historic thus the lack of elaboration."
"I listened to Dan Sato..........who was so inspirational. Our recession was so different from those previously experienced. "It was a loss of human capital across the entire economy of the United States." How true that statement is. Another great point he mentioned is saying "yes" to opportunities. Thank you Dan! We all need your positive spins these days!"
"Given all the current 'chatter' about the deficit, ergo, the economy, this video puts a face to the dillema facing the nation. When you multiply this story by 15,000,000,000, these people come out of the shadows and shake the reality that is ours. This should go beyond a viral video/blog and to the hearts of our congressional leaders and the President. Congratulations for an enlightening piece of journalism."
"Laurie, thank you very much for posting on our site and letting us know about your situation."
"I'm am 52 yrs old and unemployed. I'm a registered nurse and never dreamed I would be out of work. I would make comments at work about how blessed I was because my career could not be touched by the mess our country is in . I now am starting to believe I was let go because of my age. The Facility Administrator is now a 25 year old man and from what I'm hearing through former co-workers is that most of the staff over 40 years old are gone for one reason or another. The new staff being brought in are mostly under 40. (Way under 40). The company I worked for is a multimillion dollar company and none of the employees let go would be able to prove it was because of age discrimination. I have been looking for work for 7 months. It is funny that I saw the video of Brian King and Jessica because just the night before it dawned on me that maybe the reason I'm not finding work is because of my age. The panic rises in my throat just typing this."
"Seeing the video now is very sad. My house was sold and I have to be out of it by September 30, 2010. At the end of June I was fired from my job. The only place I could find to live was renting a room in some one house. To rent apt. want to see income, unemployment is not good income for them."
"Dear Mary, How did our grandparents manage before us in the Great Depression? Once again we are in an economy/job market that is devastatingly unstable in some parts of the United States. I don't know your details and I am sure you have done so much to get back on track. Have faith and please try to keep yourself mentally, physically and socially stimulated. My thoughts are with you. Patricia"
"Mary, I read your story on Susan Sipprelle's blog, www.overfiftyandoutofwork.com, and my heart went out to you. It is so frustrating to be over 50 and out of work in this current time when you know so many private sector firms are flush with cash (in the trillions) but refuse to invest in expansion and staff additions because of the uncertain business environment. So many people I know have spent months, even years, sitting in front of their computer sending hundreds (even thousands) of job applications and resumes out without receiving a single response from the Human Resources Departments of the prospective employers (your comment about the federal government struck a chord with me by the way). If there ever was a way to make a person feel isolated and unwanted, this process is it. That being said, there is a way out. Here are the lessons I learned when I was in the same position as you: *Get out from behind the computer and join as many job networking groups as you can b" Read the rest »
"Thank you, Donna!"
"Just had a chance to view your site. It's very sharp, good work by all. Hope that your project is successful and all that you hope it to be. I will tell everyone to take a look."
"We need to look at our strengths and determine how we can put them to good use. IF we do what everyone else is doing, there is a strong chance we will get the same results. I saw a "presume" a few weeks ago, which was a video presentation that was sent to the CEO...they got the job"
"Learned the last tier of unemployment benefits (EB) is being terminated effective 2/18 because "Michigan no longer meets Federal criteria ". Me & 29000 others lose this benefit. 12 weeks to go.Sucks! LARA - Extended Benefit Program Ends in Michigan - Up to 20 weeks of... michigan.gov"
"We must fight, stay strong and let the world know that we are the hidden majority and we have power. We have to come togather and let our voices be heard. Dammit, i am tired of this. Contact me and let out voices be heard!!!"
"great positive attitude in tough times. you are inspirational."
"Valentina, it is good to see you moving forward and growing the Long Island Breakfast Club. Best of luck."
"I cant' beat the system, but I can write about it. http://karmalkornstudio.blogspot.com/2011/10/ive-tried-no-more.html"
"Rick - first thanks for your service in the military, i was just a little fart when you was serving in the Vietnam War and to be in a Special outfit is truly remarkeable. the way i see it - you are extremely valuable asset to anyone. All the hard life you had in growing up in Louisana, the many years of military and special training, the civilian crafts that you have aquired would just floor employers if they gave you a chance. I am like you i was raised to do my job and the military trained me well - i am capable of so much with all the lives i have been responsible for and the millions of dollars of Army Equipment, yet I cannot even get a job. I am back to school and I am going to try harder this time around because I too dont beleive in giving up."
"Joe, firstly sir- thank you for your service in the mill! secondly, I pray for your health! thank you for sharing this story even though there was a great deal of pain to speak it. You are right completely, people should not be treated this way. My grandfather retired from the mill, my poor father never got his retirment- he was like you - he was swindled even though it was a accident and not his fault. I too wanted to be a steel worker but i am glad i chose to go to the military. There was a time when i was mistreated also in the military, i had to go to War and was denied the chance to go see my daughter- what a thing to do and not knowing if your gonna come back. I am feel very bad for guys like you who are hard working, smart, qualified people. Its ironic, I had 22 years in the military as a leader with numerous training responsible for millions of dollars of equipment and was responsible for peoples lives yet I cannot find work. I was really fired up hearing your story and my " Read the rest »
"Joe thanks for your service in the mill, thanks for sharing. I would have been a 3rd generation steel worker but i decided to go in to the military service. No offense to anybody for those who tried to follow their grandfather and fathers foosteps. I too wanted to be a steel worker like my family and realized it was hard but prideful. I have had a hard life in the military, wars etc, but it was the smartest thing i ever did. I listened to older folks in the late 80's. but.....now i too am like you, after 22 years as a military leader who has been responsible for millions of dollars of equipment, ledership training, a degree, and i cannot get a job. I feel like you .... Mr. President please explain to all of us who are very qualified adn like your self very qualified what are we suppoised to do? Why wont they hire us? ' God Bless Take Care Joe"
"Dear Mary, my name is R. Smth, my wife and I has the same problem. We are both are educated and over 50 been looking for work for 2 years. we got to the point where we got a car title loan to pay bills and rent thinking we may find a job by time to pay the first month on the loan, that dnt happen. Now we've created another problem. Rent, bills and loan is due. This made my wife very sick. Maybe our faith is not as strong as it should be? We still believe that God will send someone or someone will send what we need to manage through. Mary we feel you, just build your faith up as we will do the same"
"Given the current age and increasing gap towards social security, I think a problem will occur."
"You're not alone. It's only a failure if you quit trying. Don't quit."
"Dear Jessica & Brian ~ I wanted to let you know guys that I felt deeply touched not only by the scope and honesty of your heart aching story but, most importantly, by your unique human dimension courageously exhibited in your discourse. Only two weeks went by since I started to gradually envisioned some palpable light at the end of the tunnel, having myself been living a 'hand to mouth existence' for well over four years. Perhaps you may have heard similar stories all the time, but I would like to humbly point out that I am a professional actor originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina who has amassed a consistent body of work mainly in the USA, Europe and obviously in Latin America who's still struggling to make ends meet. Having earned my MFA and toured the USA many times over doing Regional Theatre as well as being part of the International Theatre Festival arena over the course of three plus decades, I also feel nothing but disheartened by the sour reality that we performing art" Read the rest »
"What we really need is to get the economy going so there are more jobs available....but ever since Congress (well, one party) refused to pass the $1.5 trillion stimulus economists said we needed at the beginning of 2009, it's been obvious that this is going to be a long downturn.."
"http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/31/long-term-unemployed-middle-class_n_942734.html see article how I am laid off at 54"
"Don't give up. There is always a way if you can see it, and often it is in the front of our faces, but so close we cannot see it. Wishing you well, as you struggle with this. The real trick is to hang on to one's own sense of self worth. Kind Regards, kevin aka @FitOldDog"
"I mentioned to a career center employee at a job fair that employment challenges are like challenges that Rosa Parks felt when Rosa wanted to sit at the front of the bus. All of a sudden, the career center employee said, "I can not hear you." Just watch "Boycott" and then you will see a correlation. I also mentioned to the career center employee that on an application, I wrote, "if you can not understand discipline or sacrifice, then I do not understand what you are looking for." You was the California State employment agency. Sacrifice refers to a Veteran and discipline refers to education. The career center employee said, "You said that?" Yes - Freedom of speech and the press."
"Being out of work since Aug. '07 and being a 99'r is a challenge. The current jobs bill includes segregation such as 'do not hire the unemployed' creates a dilemma. The challenges that exist are equivalent to what Rosa Parks faced and must be addressed. That challenge is discrimmination and an American Tradition."
"Thank you, David, for sharing some of your experiences and for your thoughtful comments."
"Dear Bill You have many brothers & sisters in your forclosure family who share in your pain. You are not alone & for whatever Its worth your in very good company. It's been a humbling journey for me & so I can identify with & respect your pain. My journey from NYC housing projects, first job at 14 as dishwasher, first generation born in US, first in my family To not only graduate from a public state college, but also achieve a US Air Force commission as an Officer, Service as Nuclear Weapons officer in Strategic Air Command and then law school with some GI bill assistance was an evolution, that I never suspected would lead back financial disempowerment especially since I always lived well below my means & never really cared much for keeping with the Jones' I purchased & drove low mileage used vehicles, & I am proud to say even in my very best years I was regular at garage sales, thrift shops & consignment stores; proud t" Read the rest »
"Bill, this is beautifully written. I can feel your pain and anguish. I'm so sorry that you found yourself in this situation and pray that things are improving for you and your family. May you find comfort, peace and hope."
"Mike i feel for you, i understand your situation as i am almost in the same situation as you when you say your wife and kids dont love you anymore. The thing is they dont realise they would not have a roof over their head and having the lifestye that they have now if it wasnt for you. Your kids are going to be over 50 and will realise then your situation. God Bless"
"Thank you very much for your service to our country. I appreciate what you have done. My father was a traumatized combat veteran who never got help. I am glad you are speaking out. Best wishes for you and your family-beautiful daughter. God bless----"
"I TOTALLY have felt the same INSULTS TO THE SENSES that you have my friend. And it's funny, I might have slipped by if I hadn't followed my moral compass. You know, the one these talk-radio bastards yak on and on about, but have used or owned, or would know how to follow if it fell into their hands. I found myself faced with a HUGE choice in late 04 that caused me to choose between the IP guru that flew around the country fronting for a major vendor or working near home plate for a local biz to fill the necessary role of single dad. There were problems that could not be counseled away and I made the decision MY FATHER WOULD HAVE MADE. Well, it worked for a while thought the inconvenience of an IT Director who couldn't drop everything and run in at 3am proved less attractive than working the poor programmer that worked along with me being forced to run the whole shooting match (Last I heard his health was on it's least leg). Since then, my divorce finalized and to save the kids " Read the rest »
"I am John P. I am a 47 old (round up and I am), college educated (student loan still owed), 7 year US Army Vet, that is working three jobs, doing dirty hard work, packing earthworms, slamming cans (5 cent refund center), and sweeping streets. Oh, I just got let go from that one but (f) it! They called to let me know on my only Federal Holiday I will ever celebrate again. I got lucky and was able to celebrate with the politicians, bureaucrats, and judges. I use to hate them damn attorneys but I salute you counselor(s) saw you working too... My new address is: http://www.facebook.com/OccupyBuffalo Video Link: http://www.overfiftyandoutofwork.com/"
"labor is cheap in china because china is a nation of slaves."
"i left weirton in 81, when i was laid off from the mill. i have fond memories of weirton but i am glad i left. they should never of let the gambling in."
"Yes, I did use my unemployment as an opportunity to learn new skills. I enrolled in an online university and earned an Associates degree in Criminal Justice."
"Yes, we had 2 incomes for most of 30 years, but our expenses were almost as much as our incomes. We always paid our bills on time or early, but there was not a lot left over. Childcare expenses that allowed me to work were in excess of $6000/year for 5 years. We also helped my mom out with some of her expenses when she ran out of money several years after my dad passed away. Maybe it was just bad luck when our cars broke down or had other unexpected expenses, but every time we had "a little extra", it never had the chance to build into anything. With a mortgage of over $1500/month, 2 incomes totalling $90 doesn't go very far."
"The “2011 Fair Playing Field Act to Protect American Workers Against Age Discrimination” http://signon.org/s/HkT7QV CORPORATE GENOCIDE =BOOMERS+55+ers are 43 % of the LONG TERM UNEMPLOYED the HIGHEST RATE of any age group! Nearly 1/2 Of Oldest Unemployed Have Been Jobless For Over A Year! A 2009 Supreme Court Ruling in the case of (Robert Gross Vs FBL, Farm Bureau Life) the 83rd Largest Company in the world changed the age discrimination laws as we knew them. Adding insult to injury; CLARENCE THOMAS WROTE a new law that nullified & ended the age discrimination portion of the Title VII ADEA of 1967 Act that protected women, ethnicity, age discrimination, religion & disabilities in civil rights law. Age discrimination was first, what will be next?? These are the results of the Clarence Thomas law http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/02/long-term-unemployment_n_1071851.html?ref=business"
"I can't help but think what can I do? This web site is doing something. I am no longer a job creator but I want to vote for those who believe in social action, justice. I need a new economic vision."
"Advertise yourself as a consultant. Hire out for private parties. You have too much experience to throw in the towel now. Just refold the towel and "shake that thang" lady...(the drink that is...)"
"I was a substitute teacher for three years, a mid-life career change that due to many circumstances did NOT pay off for me. I was exposed, though. to K-12 educational systems since a substitute teacher teaches at ALL grade levels and class-types. I really enjoyed the 11th and 12th graders and especially in the social studies arena that was my specialty I had obtained my two teaching credentials in. Sadly, I left the educational field behind since there was more laying-off than hiring and most openings desired a coach for sports more than someone knowledgeable and excited about the subject. There was also, as the the interviewed teacher mentioned... well, I declare that the USA educational systems, ascertained by first-hand experience and MUCH reading about the matter, is mostly a method of disseminating propaganda... of brainwashing USA youth. Notice how so many elites and others send THEIR youth to certain academies etc. so THEIR youth are not indoctrinated as the lowly" Read the rest »
"Really enjoyed the comments of Warren Brodhead and would have loved to have had him for a social studies teacher when I was growing up in the 1970's in Salt Lake City, UT. Perhaps if I had I wouldn 't have been so worried about success thereby falling off the student loan cliff when I went back to law school as an older adult student and racked up massive student loan debt that has not paid off, or been paid off!"
"In my humble opinion, UUhhmm (The Snarky Boomer types again) When the 1% has manged to eliminate the middle class completely (the backbone of America) there will be no one left to buy their d@%# stuff. Less taxes to collect- infrastructures will (and are) crumbling. They (the 1%) are cannibalizing themselves and to greedy to see it. Cut staff to up the black ink, that can only go on so long. Its just common sense folks, not economic genius. Greed NEVER gets enough, there is not enough money in the world to satisfy the 1%, but then again money buys power, power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts, absolutely."
"Not sure what your background is- but you might want to look into "RentaGrandma.com" It originated in Los Angles, CA- for all types of domestic help- pet sitting and personal assistant. You have to have a background check."
"I wish I lived somewhere other than the end of the world. That is why on line means so much to me. Nothing near me unless I want to drive 50-60 miles."
"I tried that myself-reinvent my career choice. This has been 10 years ago, then I was 50. When I started my life's journey, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I got married VERY young and before the age of 20, I was offered an opportunity to work in a bank, in bookkeeping. I jumped on the chance. So for approximately 14 years that is what I did. I worked in every department and took all the classes I could and made it to a middle management position. So, suffice to say, I did the first thing that was available whether it was my talent or passion, it was a living. Then after children were on their own, I decided to make a change and went back to school and trained for medical records coding. Made it through the class with A's and got the certificate. Came out and applied at local hospital, no openings. Applied for advertised job opening at a drug store. The first question asked, was ..have you ever worked in a medical office or setting before? Well, no, I had been in banking m" Read the rest »
"I just wanted to say I really respect your summary of your experiences and to say I am only 24 and also used to believe these sorts of things the governments trick us into believing. I am part of the occupy London movement and hope that we can start to open peoples eyes to the fact the carpet will be pulled from under all of them too, so we that we can start a discussion on a new type of system and no we are not anti capitalist as the media keeps portraying us, we are just concerned at how life now seems to be more about profit and less about life for everyone these days, I also wan't to draw you attention to a video on the net as I can tell you with a certainty that almost all these (financial) problems we are having are almost all down to banks please watch this video and then do ya own research you will be shocked, youtube "Abolish the Federal Reserve by Ralph Epperson [Full Presentation]" kind regards and respect to all of you that have had the carpet pulled from underneath you"
"I too am a now 60, but at 59 pink slipped Boomer. I started my blog back in July of 2011 to reach out to other pink slipped Boomers. I have a lot on my blog that may be of help to some - http://boomersberg.com/how-to-retire-without-fort-knox-as-your-retirement-fund/ Also is a link library to sites that could be helpful. My husband and I did the reverse mortgage deal and I have my RV paid for. May end up living in it. I really love RVing, but if your health is not good, that becomes a poor option. I started my blog, thinking of how Eskimo legend states that the old eskimo's are set adrift on an iceberg with a small ration of food- exactly what I felt like and still do, but mentally I am coming out of the dark pit my mind was in."
"The sentiments of a kindred Boomer. I resonate with these words for I too have been on the same receiving end of the nasty "New Reality". Those born from 1946 to 1964 are supposed to be in the Boomer Generation, so there is a commonality of experiences during that time span. But now those who have not been smacked down by current economic conditions cannot relate. I am seeing that nothing divides people better than money. The have's and the have not's. Young, old, black, white or martian- without resources the world takes on a whole new perspective and you grab onto what sanity you have left, so that does not go out the door too. http://about.me/snarkyboomer"
"I am in the same situation also. My husband and I have a small business that has almost come to a hault, directly related to the economy. We have almost all equity in our property and can't refinance . What does that tell you? I am talking about 30 years of blood, sweat and tears in this property. If we lose it, we have nothing else. Trying to sell, but there are no buyers. This government does not care. They want to own everything we have and control us all. I feel there is no hope left."
"I'm well over 50, in fact I'm 64 and living in Orlando, Florida. I'm a veteran as well. I am a former Corporate Recruiter and have been out of work since Feb 09. As a method of paying forward I review resumes for people and run ProNet Career Resources. Now I am seeking a way to survive. Not sure what to do."
"Laura, please take a look at the site www.shadowstats.com, where you will be able to find alternate unemployment charts at http://www.shadowstats.com/alternate_data/unemployment-charts The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported an unemployment rate of 9.1 percent for September 2011 (U3). The BLS reported an unemployment + underemployment rate of 16.5 percent for September 2011 (U6). Neither of these figures includes the 1,037,00 discouraged jobseekers."
"Laura, thank you very much for your generous offer! When we went to Oregon and interviewed Rudy, the local TV station covered the story that Over 50 and Out of Work was interviewing older unemployed workers in the Portland area. A local businessman who owns a medical parts manufacturing company, saw the TV story and hired Rudy, who now has a full-time job with benefits! We posted this happy news about Rudy on our blog!"
"We will pray for you and your family. What is your address? I will send you some money."
"Of the 11% do u know exactly how many workers age 45 & older are unemployeed. Many are no longer counted on the unemployment & virtually invisible!!"
"Thanks a lot for your life-video....although not from the US ,I can so wholesomely relate to the story of both of you! Counting myself to the"lost generation " from just before the internet,I really recognized when Brian said "i've never been able to prosper"despite all my qualities. The difference being that the road my partner and myself together have gone has lead us from the Netherlands to Germany to New Zealand to Switzerland back to the Netherlands. I recognize the wit mixed with disilusion and anguish in your body language. We had an extremely fragmented carreer,and ended up self employed in Holland.By one way or another we have managed to save 1100.000 eur by virtue of ultra frugal rational attitudes towards litteraly everything.We have never ever made any choice of the heart, always of the mind though. We had to learn fluent German and learn to understand Swiss German with all its antics.But our minds have transcended fear. Although I always felt an inherent dismay of" Read the rest »
"How is it possible that people that have had two incomes for 30 y or so run out of money after 18 months???"
""We are the richest country in the world" Have you heard about countries like Norway, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Sweden Finland, Netherlands,Denmark,Singapore ...you would very soon find out when traveling there that your statement is inherently wrong...even when we let the unfavourable exchange rates for the US dollar out....the US media make no mention of this, and US citizens are poorly traveled generally... Gerard, Netherlands"
"Great to hear that finally feelings of sheer anger and disgust do exist and are being pronounced! Gerard Netherlands 53 years old"
"I admire your resilience and wish you progress very soon! Gerard, Netherlands"
"Dear Sheila, You appear to be such an amiable person....what really upsets me is when you tell that you were escorted out of your workplace, as a piece of refuse so to speak.How come that there is no outright anger expressed. It all conveys an impression of powerless compliance with an in itself totally immoral dehumanized working environment .Sickening from my perspective, but probably an unassailable symptom of human commodification. Gerard Stroy, 53 years , Netherlands."
"Everytime I am just dumbfounded by the fact that these people haven't made any substantial savings during their "prosperous times" and by that I don't mean 10.000$ or so. How can it be that myself having had all the adversities in terms of unemployment, years idle against my will, living in what you refer to as socialist Europe, as a self employed person taxed with additional purpose taxations in my home country Holland , and still be able to save 1000000Euros and more.All this despite having suffered from all three major downturns on the stock market.There must be a fundamental (cultural) different pattern in spending behavior. Honestly, touring the US southwest this summer, 6500km, I have been able to see the difference in attitudes.A patty example...I live in a highly energy efficient house, I use 35 Watts for lighting.An average small coffe bar ,I have counted easily reaches 3000Watts during the day, only lighting! does this ring some, some, sort of bell? Gerard, Netherlands"
"A degree is "sociology" is not worth the paper it's printed on. This is the result of poor advisement and a catchall field of study for the academically confused. If she had followed in her mother's footsteps and taken nursing, she'd have a job today. College for the masses is not what people imagine. It's a shame, but far from too late. This kid needs to get into a graduate program in nursing, or another aspect of the medical field which requires licensure. Then she'll get a job."
"What an interesting guy. It is so true. We had a revolution, a civil war, a labor movement, a European War about systems. They matter if we think liberty and justice for all means anything. We have more liberty but hardly more justice today. Ignorance, sickness, hunger need more than an individual alone to overcome. They need systems created and regulated by justice. We are not so stupid we can't figure out the liberty part of it also."
"Thank you for sharing your inspirational story. It struck a chord with me; a chord that REALLY needed striking. I lost my publishing business in Oct. '08 and have been struggling every since, trying to get back into corporate communications and marketing. I know in my heart it won't happen, because I'm too experienced and talented, but have been terrified to start another business, after losing everything the last time. Thank you for providing the kick in the butt I needed. Best of luck to you!"
"Thank you for your empathetic and forceful response, Julie! Gerlyne was not ungrateful for the boost in life she received from her parents. She is wondering what the future will hold for her."
"Obviously Faith you are without empathy. Are you in her shoes??? If not, try putting yourself there. I run across people just like you every single time I protest with OWS. People like you roll down their car window and yell, "Get a job!". Well, to you well meaning types - I have a job, and have worked with the same company for 7 years now. It pays better than what most people seem to have and I feel very fortunate. I live in a house that is paid for. So, I have a job and feel fairly secure, if that means anything. Why do I go out and protest? For my children and grandchildren, for people like the woman in this video, for the homeless person who cannot get work because of emotional issues, for the prisoner who has served time and has been paroled and won't find work, for the person who is over 50 and won't easily find another job when up against a younger person, for the addict who can't find the way to a job. I'm sick of rich people, even those who were born with the silver spoon in" Read the rest »
"Wow! no gratitude for the opportunity to go to college in the first place? Her Sociology degree would be non-existent had her parents remained in Haiti."
"OPEN LETTER : To those who are being paid to protect us. EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) Representatives Congress and the Supreme Court OLDER WORKERS NEED YOUR HELP IN LIFTING THE BURDEN a 2009 Supreme Court Ruling in the case of (Robert Gross Vs FBL, Farm Bureau Life) the 83rd Largest Company in the world has inflicted on older workers. Its PUBLIC RECORD that Clarence Thomas wrote a new law that nullified and ended the age discrimination portion of the 1967 EEO Act that protected women, ethnicity age discrimination, religion, disabilities. THIS RULING HAS INFLICTED inhumane hardships on older workers and clearly violated their civil and human rights. It allows biases in want ads that disqualify the unemployed, in the screening and interview process; and perpetuates long term unemployment. Age discrimination creates jobs lose, depletes life savings, college, and retirement funds. Predictably blue and white collar workers are pushed into poverty with no heal" Read the rest »
"Great article. The people I am meeting at Occupy Raleigh mirror this diversity and the concerns mentioned. This is about have a more democratic economy. Adam Smith would not recognize the current system as what he had in mind. The corporate bosses, rich, politicians, etc. are the new aristocracy. We need to reduce their influence and spread the benefits so all participate. Shiva Steve Ordog"
"Great video - extremely thoughtful analysis. Thanks for posting this! -Sam"
"A lot of us deal with the frustration everyday of what used to work, now no longer does. Like monkeys in a lab experiment we were trained to do X + X = reward. Now X+X= feces. What is very frustrating is we have no previous experience on how to cope with the situation most of us find ourselves in. The learning curve is VERY steep and some are being shoved over the cliff."
"Look at it as a chance to learn new skills. 1. How to live on next to nothing -skill translated: you know how to move a company from red to black on the books. 2. Negotiating with bill collectors- skill translated: Hard negotiating skills that help a company navigate to a win/win 3. Dealing with frustration- skill translated: how to cope with frustration in the work place. 4. Writing/ interview for different job opportunities- skill translated: Improved communication skills verbal, written and visual."
"Help us all understand if there is another way past simplistic slogans of capitalism's triumphalism and market deification. Can intelligent citizens find a new way to by pass money-media power? Thank you for not having a point of view besides the reporting of the gross evil of the over 50 unemployed."
"Complaining about corporate greed and denying "we the corporations" provides little life to our employment problem. If you tell me as a business owner I am not allowed to run my business, then why should I be in business? If you want to run your own business, the get a license. Denying my rights will eliminate your employment. You can make me give back my money, but you cannot force me to stay in business."
"We the people instead of we the corporations."
"Thanks for the great pictures!"
"Thank you for the information your pictures convey, thank you for a simple and dignified explanation of what is happening. I learned more from your piece than I have from any other media coverage. Now I want to learn more. Please keep up your coverage behind the camera and in a written story."
"Wonderful to see these pictures of a rudimentary form of nation building. The founding fathers would be proud. -- H"
"Hi! You're right, it will come along, but remember that chance favors the prepared mind so prepare. I was terminated about one year ago, and I too have been calculating the life of my savings and so forth. My approach is really described (in somewhat manic terms, but amusing) in The Four Hour Work Week, by Tim Ferriss. You can see what I am starting at http://olddogsintraining.com. We'll see if I manage to make a buck. That's my plan. Hang in there. Boy, you don't look 65, and I wish I had your head of hair. Best wishes. -k @FitOldDog aka kevin morgan"
"I hear they are hiring in PERU..."
"Thanks for sharing George. I related to many of your thoughts. I am not sure there is an answer at this time? I think our once amazing country needs to bottom out completely before things will change for the better and we begin to rise out of the hole we are in. Most folks are in denial as to how BAD "it" is... I think a group of us need to get together are pool ideas, money and anything else it takes to move forward! We all need to drop our EGOs and put our heads/resources together. Strenght in numbers is still a good one! Just say'in... Good Luck!! - Sandy H. Miller / former successful entrepeneur"
"thanks for your story...times are really hard.."
"Thank you for telling us your story. You are not alone."
"You really stated the issue so well... nobody has any jobs at this point."
"Thought I'd follow-up with a little story. I just returned empty handed from a trip to S. NV. I had found a connection which networked to a job. After a phone call and several emails it became apparent I'd best take a drive and show up in person. I did but suddenly sensed a problem. "I never promised you a job" is what I got. I didn't say it but, yes you did. It makes me feel like I am reading things into communications, wishful thinking. I just drove a thousand miles and got hosed? Sure did! I did not become confused or make a mistake. These types of issues are new to me, I'm not used to this insincerity in the job market. It has been two years with no sense this stupidity will end. Not a pity party, just truth. I guess there are a number of employers who have zero integrity and getting worse. Seems we are all in a tight spot. Remaining positive is becoming a monumental task. Damn hard to uphold self-confidence, worth and value with this crap kicking me in the crotch all the time, gee" Read the rest »
"Congratulations Virginia! I went through a similar experience in the early 2000's which inspired me to change everything in my life. That's how I became the Midlife Crisis Queen, and how I began advocating for those in midlife hell. It's those totally humbling experiences which teach us the most about ourselves."
"Brian, thank you for your comment on our site. I regret that we reached our 100 interviews before we were able to interview coal miners for our project. Did you work or are you currently employed in the coal industry?"
"My Grandfather, Joseph Lampel, was Western Pa U.M.W.A. President until his death, this past July, and I watched the same thing happen to the coal industry. Presently, we have been warned that St. Joe Lead, now Horsehead industry, will be closed down in a few years, O.S.H.A., the E.P.A., and our Government in general is anti-business, with staggering fines, and unattainable guidelines, and restrictions that choke, and kill even successful businesses! What a shame! Brian W. Patosky"
"I have been and presently in the same boat. As far as resumes are concerned, one can become confused what to apply for. When employers state, "You do not want this job" or "How long do you expect to be around" or "You do not fit," then arrogance becomes a norm. Oh, by the way, an attorney will say the condition is not discrimmination."
"I started working when I came over, had to learn English, and when I needed money. Thus, practically everything at a young age and gaining experience. Now, after applying to various qualified positions, one becomes confused by which position a person should apply for. Furthermore, then there are the complaints that a person must endure why one has not worked for such a long time. Never mind the continuous discrimmination that is occuring, which is preventing a hiring or when persons assume that a person is too old towards being in a workplace. I would call them an atheist for disrespect towards mankind. As to the food problem, I understand nutrition programs called SNAP are improving quals and should provide basic food needs. Besides, the centers will give out additional assistance programs."
"I have been out of work since summer of 2007 i.m going to be 51 next month. What blows me away is how the online apps will come right out and ask for your birthdate, i thougt that was a restricted question under federal employement laws, where is the enforcement?"
"Best of Luck Guys/Gals and hope and wish alot more of out brothers and sisters are as successful as you are."
"New to this site. Just turned 53, thought reading comments would somehow sooth me, it hasn't. I keep being told, "you're not the only one." Does this make anyone feel better? I specialized in the mid 90's so when I got older I wouldn't have to be outside working on equipment in the snow. Um,...seemed like a good idea at the time. Try as I might, I've made no connections. I have found opposition when I attempt to do "walk-ins" at employers to see if they have work. I suspect too many people do this due to widespread unemployment. Honestly, I've never really had to shop for a job. Generally I always had a network to go on or similar. The networks are gone and the overall friendliness of employers has become confrontational! So I have relied on the internet, checking job-sites and sending resumés, so far a colossal waste of time. I seldom hear from anyone, the manners are gone. I am in the twilight zone. I can feel judgments about my sanity and my quality as a man. True, I admit my pride" Read the rest »
"The reason is there exists a lack of interest and various excuses. The claim is attitude is your problem."
"Congratulations, Elizabeth! That's great news!"
"I GOT A JOB! I was hired on Sept. 19 by a medical association to be their staff writer covering medical-legal and policy issues. I am so happy I could bust!"
"I think you are a credit to all of us gessers and I am proud of you. Keep your chin up because you have helped many people and that energy will come back to you. You are fantastic and will be fine."
"What are your interests?"
"The site's data charts compare timelines and stats for American workers aged 50+ to those for all workers aged 16+. The data would be more compelling still if you also broke out Americans 49-. Please consider including this third cohort in your bar graphs -- or using it in place of the 16+ data."
"Good for you. Congratulations!"
"I don't see how anything short of a quota system will get us back to work. The tax break cannot possibly outweight the costs of our health insurance and salary. If they save a thousand bucks, our health insurance premiums will far exceed that in a year. I really don't know why everyone does not pay the same premium for healthcare. It should be averaged out across the entire population. After all, the young people will get old at some point....and if they don't, too bad! If we cannot have a national health insurance, everyone should at least pay the same. I too just turned 50 and I have a better chance of getting killed by a terrorist than every finding a full time job. I must have sent out approximately 600 resumes in the last 18 months and I have had 4 interviews. In at least three of them, the interviewers became noticably absent minded the minute I walked through the door, as if they were expecting someone younger. And I can pass for late 30's. I did not put any jobs o" Read the rest »
"Yes, it is age. I am your exact age and have been unemployed exactly as long. I have always gotten jobs before but now all of a sudden i am not qualified even when I apply for a job that is the exact duplicate of something i have already done."
"Yes, it is age. I am your exact age and have been unemployed exactly as long. I have always gotten jobs before but now all of a sudden i am not qualified even when I apply for a job that is the exact duplicate of something i have already done."
"And your wishes are what we are all fighting for! You & all like you are in my prayers daily."
"These memories bring back the tears and the realization again how we are all the same in loss be it jobs, or the horror of a beloved life lost."
"I'll ask- do you wash a sink of dishes/load-unload dishwasher- mow grass- run vacuum, any household task IS contributing even if it doesn't feel like it!!"
"Hey Mike do you remember talking to your parents about the great depression? I was not interested in listening to the stories back then but I wish my old man was still alive so I could listen to them now. I hope you get the break you deserve. God Bless you Mike and thanks for sharing your story."
"Sheila, many are in the same situation and worse. Out of work since 08/2007. A short Census gig helped a little. Been through the disaster and the storm. Luckily, found some SNAP or nutrition to get by. The SNAP centers are more crowded than the career centers. There exists too many forces that are against us. Thus, take one day at a time, hope for the best, and get some rest or follow your cat's advice."
"You are an inspiration to me, and I thank you for your honest and heartfelt thoughts. I believe you will make it, and do well. Never give up."
"Very wise words, is this gentleman out of work? The only time I heard him talk about himself is dealing with the CEO of a corporation and this gentleman's illnesses...nothing about losing a job."
"Joe, you're my hero. You explained the situation of the millions of unemployed in a way that truly zeroes in on the reality of the situation. Thank you."
"If the national black American unemployment rate is 16.7% then it is at least 50% among the baby boomers. Unemployment among black citizens over 50 years of age is the worst in history and there has been no enforcement of age discrimination laws. I have associates who have lost their jobs since 2006 and not one of them has received a full time position of any kind regardless of credentials. Many people that I know between the ages of 50 and 70 regardless of personal heritage have mortgaged their home or borrowed money from other sources to improve their skills or to get another degree. We actually speak to each other before 6:00 AM because many of us get up in the wee hours seeking work and hoping for temporary placement reporting by 8:00 AM. Going into debt to further education has proven to be a high risk gamble resulting in further unemployment and mounting debt for black Americans. Many feel they are in too much debt now for start up costs for new business. Most unable to get fur" Read the rest »
"I too have had big age discrimination in employment since I turned 50. Not cute enough anymore. Sickening. I had to look at plenty of not too cute people when I was a bartender."
"Joe, I am from Steubenville and now in Indiana. My did worked at Weirton Steel 39 years and retired in 1976, I thank you for your story. Life was good in the 50's and 60's when I was growing up. About all of the neighborhood men and my parents' friends worked in the mill and had good livings. I still remember all the graphite dust all over the windows giving everything that "orange glow" and everyone feeling it was ok because it was "pay dirt". It is a total shame what has happened to the steel industry in this country."
"Amen brother. I'm in the same age group and know all too well a person can't go back to school, relocate in this housing market or get financing to start a service business."
"I agree about the age discrimination. I've applied to more than 6,000 jobs and I can't even get an interview and I've worked for billion dollar companies my whole life before I was laid off."
"Hi Patrick, I was terminated, but with generous severance, and found I had an aortic aneurysm all in one week. So, I got on with my life, including blogging to deal with fear of the stent (http://athletewithstent.com) and I am following the advice in 'The Four Hour Workweek,' by Tim Ferriss. You have a lot to offer, so work out what it is and bust a gut doing it, but it must be fun. -k @FitOldDog"
"I agree with Diane Magnone, We shouldn't be stereotyped with that style of music. But the fact is that the only way to make Weirton better is change. People don't like change. I come home every year to the same thing. I like the direction the Mayor is trying to go in. Let's make our town something again...."
"Your father is a lucky man to have such a caring daughter. And you are lucky to have him as a role model of resilience, positivity and strength. Here's wishing him -- and your entire family -- a healthy, prosperous future. Take care!"
"thats evryones story thoght mill last forever.my Dad had 40 somethin yrs in,he retired,and 1 month before he died he lost all his pension and benefits they had. i think his worrying and disappointment of all of that transpired caused his death.he always told me if yo took care of your job it would take care of you??????"
"When there's not enough jobs to go around and the government is still rewarding entrepreneurs with tax deductions, it only makes sense to look at business opportunities. The 40-year plan is broken. People who should be retiring are still working. The retirement age is increasing. Being in business offers so many opportunities besides income. There are more people on food stamps now than ever before. "Today SNAP released the most recent food stamp numbers. Not surprisingly, we just saw another all time high 44.2 million poverty-level Americans relying on government funding for day to day sustenance." Even people who are able to find work have a difficult time making ends meet. A full time or part time business is a great way to make additional money, save money on taxes, and regain control over your life. Get out there and make it happen!"
"Instead of being retired, call the name in transition. Hence, we are always in transition and retired refers to extinction as in "Logan's Run." In any event, good luck."
"Hello: Anyone have any new business ideas? I have time, lots of energy and experience in researching, developing, launching and running a national business doing sales of 1-7 million per year gross reveune. We need to share our strength, hope and limited funds to get something going! Are there any "like minded" people out there?? I would love to hear from you. Come on folks we are NOT getting any younger!! I hope some of you will contact me. Best regards, SHM"
"I filed a number of cases of discrimmination with the EEOC. One case particular was the employer, who refused to show up for an interview after completing an application and setting a time frame. On the EEOC compalint, I used age as a more obvious selection. Besides, I gave the employer an opportunity to schedule another interview, where I could bring in my qualifications. Mind you this position did not pay very well. In any event, after an EEOC review of the documents, EEOC ruled that employers can be as arrogant as possible. I responded by stating, "I presumed age however there are other possibilities such as race or nationality." In other words, the employer may be biased were one was born or the color of skin."
"Joe I worked with your dad in the C.A. for over 20 years."
"The documentary was great. It is terrible with happened to Weirton Steel. My whole family worked there at one time or another. I didn't get in so I am still working in the field I chose. WSX strated going down years ago - it wasn't all the goverment (but our govt. including the state officials didn't help us much. My father retired when the employees bought it out - on a pension that was terrible for how many years he worked there. Then they hired all these executives - or what ever you want to call them, gave them huge salaries = more than the president of the United States, they would stay awhile and then they would get huge packages that the mill would pay to then for how ever many years was agreed on. The poor working man in the mill was the ones that got screwed and lost their pensions and jobs -- at young ages (50 or above) and had to go into different fields and collect unemployment for how ever long they could get it and try to find new jobs to support their families and t" Read the rest »
"Dave, you are not alone. There exists millions in similar situation. Furthermore, when discussion age discrimmination with an attorney, age discrimminations falls on deaf ears."
"Michael is doing better than most of us. He can collect early SS. I cannot afford health insurance, as a single woman of 63..it would cost me $250/mth with a 5k deductible. My skillselt has been outsourced to foriegn soils. I live in Florida, where there isn't any jobs in my field. Also, do not forget...companies do not hire older Americans, mainly because of the health insurance rates."
"Why am i seeing alot of IT people on these videos? I thought information technology was one of the jobs of the 21st century Bush was talking about...What BS....Had alot of manufacturing people get retrained in IT as they advised and they got thrown under the bus again."
"I see alot of NJ IT Computer folks on here."
"No Mr. Bond, they expect us to die [they being our Tea Bag controlled government] . That way, we will not reach 62 and the rich can confiscate our social security. You don't think they really want to let us have that money to live in a hut in Uganda do you?"
"The current situation is really starting to wear me out. I don't even have enough hope left to look for a job anymore. I've been unemployed since 3/31/10, the longest time that I've gone without some type of job since high school. If I get the full extension of 99 weeks, that's it and that's all. No more income. I live in IL and the state has just passed a resolution that will only allow people who become unemployed to obtain a maximum of 26 weeks in benefits. I believe that there is a time coming and not too far off, when we will have riots in the streets, like Greece and London. The so-called deal that Congress came up with before they trotted out to enjoy their American taxes paid 5 weeks vacation, didn't even mention the 99'ers or for that matter, unemployment at all, with the exception of giving tax credits to companies that hire Veterans. Great, except companies that are experiencing record earnings are laying current employees off to increase their earnings spread. I really don" Read the rest »
"WAKE UP AMERICA BEFOR IT'S TO LATE."
"You've done a thorough job of documenting the current situation. It's important for people to understand the reality in order to explore their viable options. It's time we all wake up and realize things have changed. Change requires new approaches."
"The only way to lower taxes in reality - PROPOSED: Economic regulative legislation to ease domestic job issues, reduce the deficit and the Social Security shortfall (Pro Jobs Legislation)... In response to solicitations for revenue that generates jobs (e.g. Face the Nation on CBS) here is another source of revenue other than direct taxation we need to use which no one seems to want to talk about, described at http://www.congress.org/soapbox/alert/51246501 and at http://www.rncox.newsvine.com. I've communicated my ideas about this already, re shipping our jobs overseas being at the root of many of our deficit problems. The only way to lower taxes in reality is to increase the overall tax base. GE's recent action reported on CNN (www.cnn.com/caffertyfile), moving their X-Ray business to China, is just another instance of the reason for this proposal. Richard N. Cox 105 Front Street Weirton, WV 26062-4220 eMail: rncox@access995.com (preferred met" Read the rest »
"Ms. Standardi, Tell them we are still trying to get new things in Weirton, such as the plasma gasification tech I'd proposed back in 2003, point them to my web pages. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Recycling-and-Power-Facilities-RPFs/347616143827, and http://www.rncox.newsvine.com. Weirton has all of the things that made a mill work here, ready access to road, river and rail for moving raw materials in and finished products out, and would be a great place for a refinery making methanol, ethanol and biodiesel out of coal, municipal and industrial waste streams, regardless of the specific technology used. Thank You, Richard N. Cox 105 Front Street Weirton, WV 26062-4220 eMail: rncox@access995.com (preferred method of contact) LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/11/75/829 <= my professional profile Independent member, WV Senator Manchin's Project Weirton task group (http://www.wtov9.com/news/5484507/detail.html) Web page: http://www.facebook.com/p" Read the rest »
"Thanks for your support, Jim. Good to hear from you! Congratulations on your success in helping people who are 50+ find jobs."
"Kudos to the producers … This is a great documentation and when they came to Southwest Florida we were not sure what to expect. The stories here are real-life and compelling. Some good news out of SWFL is many of the individual’s features in the documentation have found job. To all, keep plugging away and all the best!"
"I guess a big riot in the streets of all USA is what we need in order to tell the WH and the Congress that, we the 99ers are still us citizen,that we need to support our families and need to pat our debts too,no only the rich and millionaires have the right to live comfortable.As a person in my 61 I don't think that I have any chance to get a job,is sad to became a homeless with no source of money and waiting for our government to do something to help us to survive.Foreing countries and banks have more luck of to be help by USA than their own people.My last check from UI was in March 2010 and since then I don't have any source of income, I was lloking for jobs all over USA and in a foreing country,with no results.So America need to wake up to this situation,I think that we are too comfortable with what is happens in the nation right now,we need to act,no just seating in front of the tv and watch what is happens here we our economy.They try to cut the Social Security wich is the only re" Read the rest »
"I appreciate your thoughtful comments, I have found harboring ill-will doesn't suit me, or help me pursue my future, which I now embrace with the excitement of a child again. My best to all who have suffered from this all too real, and continuing depression, I choose to be thankful for what I have, and can still be, I hope you can too. There's still so much to do, and the time is short."
"My words exactly......but let's try to see this as an opportunity and never, ever give up.....Good luck my friend"
"What are WE all going to do? Will it come to riots in the streets? If your head is not up your ass you must be quite worried and freaked out like I am... There is simply NO answer. If the WH doesn't have one who does? Sick of it but have no where to go! Pissed in LA ~ Any ideas?"
"I really appreciate doing this documentary, and my brother is featured. But. What's up with the banjo-playing introduction? Every time someone does a documentary about WV (Coal mines, the Wild Wonderful Whites, the Point Pleasant bridge collapse) it's always got that stupid banjo intro! how often have any of us really listened to people sitting on their porches pickin banjos in Weirton? I absolutely hate the stereotyping."
"Hello Mr. Williams, Appreciated the post about how to become an older entreprenuer. Have you thought about 'legitimate' networking opportunities? Not the constant array of scam's that people are running these days, but 'legitimate' companies like Mary Kay, and others that have been successful for many, many years. The start up cost and risks are a lot less than risking ones' savings with franchises and the like and the joy of helping others instead of just yourself is a blessing as well. Thanks, keep up the good work. Charles"
"Jeffrey, I am very sorry to read of the problems you are facing. I also checked out about refinancing in 2005, when my husband's unemployment was nearly gone and was told that we had to have a certain level of income to refinance even with good credit history. My substitute teaching pay wasn't enough to qualify for a refinance without my husband's former income. After some research, I found that the banks can't loan to people with certain levels of earnings to credit ratios or the banks eventually go under themselves. They are audited and might become one of the many banks that get listed each Friday as closed due to inadequate debt to asset ratios. I also felt betrayed by the bank to which we had been so faithful in making payments. We then sold our home and built smaller in a less expensive area doing ALL the work ourselves using discounted building supplies. One of our children and family are building a mini home on a trailer bed paying cash for all parts to avoid having a mo" Read the rest »
"As someone who (*knock on wood*) is still working in a corporate job, I'm feeling the insecurity of it. I'm in the beginning stages of starting an online business. And your points of what you need to think about are right on target."
"Please let me know when the documentary is complete and I will feature it on the carepoint seniors blog. Samantha Welch, carepoint.net"
"Thank you, JKL, for your comment. Weirton's story is complex and evolving, and it's good to read about the start of its rebirth, which we hope to experience for ourselves next week. When we make our full-length documentary, it will be about the United States, not just Weirton, and it will also include the positive outcomes that some older jobseekers have been able to create for themselves. Stay tuned!"
"Look around, everything is made in China/Korea/India and on and on, except our own USA. All the outsourcing/call centers are going abroad. Why does it come as a surprise that our millions are unemployed. What do we do? I asked a public official " Why are all the jobs going abroad?" His answer was " Simple, labor is cheaper there " I answered " If we could, we would outsource you also, we can get 10 for the price of one we support here. How would you like that ". There was silence. Many countries impose tarrifs on foreign good to the tune of 100 to 300 percent. They insist that to be able to do business with them, manufacturing has to be done there. How can we compete? By playing the same game. The companies would rather see their next quarter look good as the country goes down the tube. It seems that each company is working in vacuum, not realizing that one by one all manufacturing will go abroad, and there will be no buyers left here. China is too happy to lend us money because even" Read the rest »
"Thank you, Joni. We're headed back to Weirton next week to do more shooting for a full-length documentary. Weirton is a special place with fascinating people. We're eager to get back there."
"Weirton is 30 min. from where I grew up. Getting a job in a steel mill was a great career path for my father's generation & also for my generation. My father lost his steel mill job forever when he was 60 years old (late 1970's). Another generation in this area tells the same story.. which isn't any different from manufacturing workers in any other part of the US. Very well done documentary in the making. I look forward to your future videos. Blessings, Joni"
"Please don't say your wife and children don't love you... I am sure at least your kids love you. I feel your pain. I will be 51 in a few weeks and I have been out of work since 2009. I have been on dozens and dozens of interviews but no one will hire me! I was clearly suited for many of the positions I applied for. I guess I am experiencing age discrimination. And now I don't I don't know where to go or what to do. Do I retrain? I am not sure. Good luck to you. I wish you the best."
"I have just turned 50 and have been unemployed since 2009. I have been on at least 30 interviews. I have no income coming in which gets old fast. I am very disappointed."
"Gosh, this is so depressing!"
"Yeah...this is so unfair. My friend in this boat didn't even want to live anymore when suppossed to be happy in retirement. Lucky for him he found something...."
"Now I'm just about to get retired,in April 2012 is when I have to apply,cuz my B.D. is in July and I will be 62.Those will be the longest 10 months that I have to wait in my life.Other thing is that with my money I can't live in USA,so I will have to moved to Colombia or Peru where the money worth and I can live with decense and happiness."
"Yes is a disgrace that a person on his 50's loose his job,got sick and is turned down every time I applied for a job.Now I'm 61 lost my job in 2008 as a Lowe's employee due to a cancer,now I'm doing ok, but I can't find a job cuz of my age and my health history.I tried to get my retirement,but the person in SS office told me,you are too young to retire but too old to get a job,wich I guess she was right.I became a 99er in March 2010 and since then I don't have any income,so I became a homeless,lost my car, apartment and my friends,noy even your family wants to take you if you don't have at least one source of income.I never realize that I will be on my 60's without any job,I always thought that when I retired it will be with dignity,but now I feel like a piece of shit,a person that nobody wants to have around cuz you will be a problem for them....this is my sad reality."
"I sympathize w/ you. I am in the same predicament never been unemployed in my life I am 59 and having difficulty procuring a new job. I truly believe it is age discrimination! I am at a loss as to my situation. BOA lost my refinance paperwork three different times charged me penalties for being late with my mortgage, added the penalties totalling $20,000.00 to my mortgage. I am totally disgusted w/ them."
"I'm 62 and it took me over to 2 yrs to land my minium wage job, and they really didn't want to hire me."
"What I find to be especially infuriating is that I know more about office software than most 20 year olds. Yet most companies will only hire recent grads. The government has got to have a policy of only hiring over 50. They are the only people who will do it as the scumbugs in private industry won't. We're lucky if they even do any hiring in this country. They should be thrown out of the country if they outsuorce....and anything coming in should be taxed 500% to make sure that no one can afford to buy it."
"Like Marie, I looked after two ill parents for about a decade, and now that I've been looking actively for work for the last three years....the few jobs that are out there, always seem to go to someone else. At present, I'm at or near the top of the list for 3 municipal jobs, but I keep getting told that there's no funding for the jobs. In the next two weeks, I plan to take 2 more tests, hoping for the best. I admit that I have to borrow from a relative, just to get by. Sadly, no one seems to know or care, that looking after sick family members, is no picnic in the park. I wish you the best of luck in your job search, Marie; hoping your dream job is yours VERY soon."
"I work as a volunteer for AARP and the number 1 reason older workers say they have not been able to find a job...age discrimination. 1 in 5 who are unemployed are over 50. I know I've experienced this myself and it is a huge problem. Also a lot of people have medical problems and this is a factor as well. I know people who take part time jobs (if they can even find those) if they can't find full time work. 1 in 7 families are now on food stamps."
"........At a time when weve got some of the greatest income disparity in the United States since the Gilded Age Villager David Brooks thinks were not going to be able to solve the problem with our deficit unless seniors and the middle class are ready for some shared sacrifice. Which in Villager speak means fixing those problems on the hides of those who can afford it least while the rich keep their tax breaks..Brooks does agree that we need to raise taxes on the rich to some degree but of course qualifies that with the typical talking point that no matter how high their taxes were raised it would not fix the deficit problem..And like every other Republican out there he pretends our Congress would ever actually vote to close the tax loopholes for the rich and not just end up sticking it to the middle class instead in the name of fiscal responsibility while their big money donors keep their deductions in place..I would love to see David Brooks have to spend a few days in some senior citi" Read the rest »
"During the past generation the American middle-class family that once could count on hard work and fair play to keep itself financially secure has been transformed by economic risk and new realities. Rocked by rising prices for essentials as mens wages remained flat both Dad and Mom have entered the workforcea strategy that has left them working harder just to try to break even. Even with two paychecks family finances are stretched so tightly that a very small misstep can leave them in crisis."
"Hi Kelly: Thanks for your note. Please tell me more ~ contact information, website/URL, corporate name, company history and who the executive officers are so I can investigate and determine IF it is something I would be interested in and a venture that I could share my experience with and make a positive impact. Please NO MLMs (Multi-level Marketing) business concepts or PONZI deals!! Thanks -"
"One solution for out of work homeowners is to lower the age of eligibility for "reverse" mortgages to 50 or 55. Then older folks could tap into their homes equity to pay off the existing mortgage, relieve the burden of ever making a mortgage payment (unless they refi in the future), and possibly give them some cash in hand each month. Since the official name is "home equity conversion mortgage", you need some equity to convert to present money. However, if a home is underwater, or doesn't qualify for an amount sufficient to pay off present financing, then the bank either has to take a "short refinance", somewhat similar to a short sale, or the bankers need to create an equity sharing instrument so that what the bank can't get now, they can get when the house is sold or at upon some agreed event. I'm sure smart bankers can figure out an instrument that would work. Another huge game changer would be for FNMA to allow short refi's. Currently FNMA will not accept reductions in princi" Read the rest »
"Sandy, I am sorry to hear about your situation. I have marketing and promotion business marketing a unique service and am looking for someone to come on board to help me. This is service helps people across the US and Canada and is provided by a NYSE change company. Please let me know if this might interest you."
"Sorry Mike, I've been out of work for 3 years now, my skills are not outdated! I'm just 55 years old. God Bless you and your family, unfortunately in todays world I think kids who want to go to college need to work for it and not depend on the parents. Not being mean just reality."
"Ok, so you tracked these stories and trackd their success or not successes...ummm...what good is it, try being over 50 and out of work for 3 years! Yes there is a BIG problem out there for "mature" workers and all of us just talk about it, lets fight, lets walk right up to the white house and ask WHY isn't someone doing something about this crap??? They say we cost them more, how? Seems to me it would be less cost in training! They say they would have to pay us more, well let us make that decision, not you! Sick of this whole thing, someone made the comment we should make the "Over 50 Party". I'm game!!"
"Thank you so much for doing this. People do not realize this is happening everywhere. Workers over 50 had good jobs that they did well prior to 2008. Why would they not be responsible, valuable employees now? They would be, they just can't afford to work part time for 7.50 an hour unless they are subsidized by the Government. We want to be free of all benefits and return to a "reasonably paid" full time position, working hard and making enough to live on for our families without needing a helping hand from State Government."
"My plan for getting America back to work: #1 Make being an :intern: subject to Equal Opportunity and age discrimination laws. No Kidding why should someone older be told they are OVERQUALIFIED? That is just mean and nasty to someone willing to work for little or no pay to keep a recent job in their field at the top of their resume. #2 Eliminate all extended unemployment after 26 weeks UNLESS you are in an Intern job or in job training. Again if some employer tells me I am TOO OLD to be an intern well the UI office can make it hard for them to do business. #3 Quit being NASTY and demanding welfare recipients find work.........again no kidding From personal experience the NYC back to work programs are an incredible waste of taxpayers money....Rude nasty very little if any help. It is a Boondoggle and the only people who they serve are Goodwill Arbor Fegs employees by getting paid every two weeks. What to do to sound tough on getting government " Read the rest »
"They don't care. If they cared they could make it a capital crime for any CEO's company to discriminate on age. But they don't care at all. If the people in congress cared they would long ago have made it a crime to discriminate. But the health insurance companies rule the day. Money rules all."
"Thats fantastic! You guys are doing a great job..keep up the good work and dont lose hope! This is a huge accomplishment!!!"
"Unfortunately (or fortunately), I am a 99er. Not by choice, mind you. Lay off's occurred and our center being shut down. Although I consider myself fortunate since I was 62 when this happened. I did not want to retire and would have liked to have worked until 66. I managed a medical records department, working as a transcriptionist as well as creating medical charts. Multi-tasking to the max. Do I think I will get another job. Deep down - no. But still trying. No doubt to the ire of the 2011 grads, both high school and college. Oh well...I may be a "baby boomer" but in my heart I know I bring experience and loyalty to any employment area."
"Thank you Tim for those kind words. They were very encouraging to my spirit. I have learned to be content in whatever state I find myself (according to the Bible). How I manage to keep control of my situation is to trust and depend upon God for He promised to supply all of my needs and He has thus far. We often worry about things we have no control over and make our situation worse when our health fail due to all of the stress. I am learning how to stress less and trust more in the Almighty God who is able to keep me (us) from falling and present us faultless before His throne with exceeding joy. Put your trust in God and obey His Word and everything will work together for your good because He loves you. Take care!"
"This lady has it going. How she can remain uber-positive in the face of this current economic climate is a testimony to her inner strength. Cheryl, you will land on your feet. Of that I am certain!"
"Transition may be permanent but time waits for no man or woman. What many of us fear is time because we are so close to that "magic" retirement age. Sorry but I'm not willing to "have to" change jobs...whenever I get hired...several times before 65. Retirement for me, at the moment, is a 4 letter word because I will never have...unless I win the lottery...enough money to retire:( And I have a strong feeling that quite a number of folks are in the same boat!"
"Yes, we are or rather were, defined by our vocations and achievement along the lines of excellence. We grew up with that sense of "Norman Rockwell American Values" with guidance that if we study hard, go to college and graduate we then would be rewarded with being able to find a good job. All of these things have apparently changed now and are "so yesterday". The question remains as to what they are changed too?"
"This is a really compelling video!"
"This was a very inspiring post. I think that the concept of empowering people to share their gifts is important. In my own work, I attempt to encourage people to start businesses with their skills. However, not everyone wants to go through the effort to start a business, they just want to share. This short post provides great thoughts on how to do that. It also points us to what sounds like a book that will have many more valuable insights."
"That is an interesting interview, although it made me a bit uncomfortable to hear her make comments about baby boomers "not knowing how to download a file". As a baby boomer with great computer skills, I'd rather not have this type of mythology (baby boomers don't know which end of the computer to use) promulgated. There's enough negative generalizations out there already."
"I remember Senator Inouye from The Watergate Hearings. We called him "Senator "Ain't no way" because he wasn't going to stand for the baloney! I think being "Middle aged" is just a state of mine or a phrase. Many of my buddies from high school and college who are my age are talking about being older Americans. We reach a "certain" point in time,different for each individual where our bodies start to differe with our brains. Our minds are still 25 ish and then all of a sudden we aren't anymore as those aches and pains start to appear:)"
"No surprise to me that those are the extent of the responses you've gotten. I've been contacting my Senators and Reps and attempting, unsuccessfully, to contact Senators and Reps in other states regarding the unemployment situation(for all ages), the lack of consequences for the crooked banks, and on a variety of other topics all pertinent to our decimated economy. I, and many other unemployed like me, have attempted to make our voices heard through emails, phone calls, twitters....They really don't seem to be listening and, unfortunately, the feeling a lot of us are getting is that we, the unemployed(especially the unemployed in their 40s and 50s and older) are expendable. We are simply collateral damage. It's absolutely shameful how willing those in power are to ignore this huge and growing bigger daily, problem."
"The employment discrimination in the country is at an all time high and needs to be fixed period. We need to live just like everyone else, and it's very hard to do when salaries are going down 20K to 30K or more and prices are going through the roof. Our water fees are going up 7.5% in Queens, NY - (NOT SALARIES)...!!!!!...What's wrong with this picture??????"
"Diane, USA.gov has a page http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml that lists all elected officials and you can search by state. Thank you!"
"Great ideas, Diane! Here is the description that we pasted in to the contact forms: For the past year, we have been traveling across the United States conducting video interviews with Americans who are Over 50 and Out of Work at http://www.overfiftyandoutofwork.com/ We would invite you to add your Comments to our multimedia documentary project. In the Great Recession, older Americans are unemployed at record rates and for longer periods of time than ever before. Over the past 10 years, many boomers have also seen the value of their homes and savings decline precipitously, and they have less time than younger workers to recoup their losses and regain financial equilibrium. Moreover, they face a daunting uphill battle against age discrimination and a bias directed against the unemployed when they seek new jobs. Please take a look at the stories we have documented – together, they forge a remarkable American geographic and socioeconomic mosaic. We currently have 75 i" Read the rest »
"Do you have a "template" that you used to contact the people, such as a form letter, that others could use? Also, I am wondering is there is a way to have a database of all the pertinent people in one place that others could use. For instance, if I found all the Pennsylvania representatives, I could put their emails or websites in a database, and other people could find it. And I want to say to the honorable Mr. Inouye, Dude, I'm not elderly!"
"What a wonderful idea! I'm super-impressed. Best of luck to you. (BTW, I studied to be an opera singer, and then went on to work in a bank for a couple of decades.)"
"Dear Over-50 people, What is wrong is that the US lacks any industrial policy worth a damn. What is also wrong is that we have banksters running and ruining everything. I have covered a few of the policies that have brought us to this point. Please do not think that because I mention Obama, that I am leaving out bad policies made by Bush and Clinton both. There have been bad decisions made about the economy since the 1970s. In the interest of brevity, I am only covering the last 30 years or so. What is really sad about the current situation is that quietly, behind the scenes, there are a lot of cheerleaders for 'THE FREE MARKET" who are gently recommending Keynesian economics again. Their problem is how to push that without admitting that they took this country on an adventure through "discredited economics 101" for the third or fourth time. That's right. We tried these same stupid policies in the past and they resulted in Depressions every time. How do I know this? I " Read the rest »
"Great! I'll have to check out your bakery next time I'm up your way."
"Mike, Autodesk has a program for unemployed designers and architects - the Autodesk Assistance Program. Go to this website: www.autodesk.com/assistanceprogram, sign up and you can start downloading software for free. It will get you a 3-year student license that you can use to brush up on your 3D skills. The site also includes a ton of videos and tutorials to help get you started. I hope this helps. We did a survey of the program participants last year, and 75% of them said that when they go for job interviews, technology proficiency is the second most important thing employers are looking for, second only to years of experience. Best of luck to you, and please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or need anything else. Best, Angela"
"I would venture to guess that Mike never expected, when he volunteered for this video, to become the headline story on the Huffington Post! Mike, if you're reading these comments, I would like to say how much I admire you for being human and showing us how unemployment has affected your life and that of your family. If you read some of the negative comments on HuffPo, just remember that for every heartless person who sits at his/her computer taking potshots at the world, there are many of us who are just like you - who are feeling the same doubts and pain you are. We never expected to be treated like the line items on a profit or loss statement. Something is very wrong with our country when so many millions of people have worked their whole lives and raised families only to encounter the suffering and despair of joblessness so close to the time when they might have expected to continue working in a career spanning several decades, to see their children able to attend college, and t" Read the rest »
"Someone on Huffington Post posted this message and I thought it might help... Posted by Angela Simoes This post is specifically for Mike Risinger if anyone knows how to reach him. The Autodesk Assistance Program provides free software to designers and architects who are out of work. This is a great way for him to learn the 3D CAD skills that the companies are looking for and make himself attractive to employers again. Just go to this website and sign up: www.autodesk.com/assistanceprogram. Hope this helps. I hope this helps too, over 40 here and out of work myself... Mo"
"If I were this person, I would start helping people out with their computers. I continually have problems with my computer; when I have bigger issues, I would love to have someone to call that's not going to charge me through the nose."
"Go to usajobs.gov There are several opening in the federal government you may qualify for."
"I am in an architecture-related profession in the Cleveland area. I am told that our unemployment is around 60%, and is not likely to recover for at least ten years or longer. I am 63 years and was forced to start Social Securiity to pay mortgage. Live-in girlfriend works one full-time and one part-time jobs, and has been unsympathetic that I can not just go out and find another job, although I have tried. This has been devastating in our lives, and I see no way to improve the situation. Your discussion confirms the situation that so many of us find ourselves in after lifetimes of productivity (I starting working when I was 12)."
"My boyfriend and I are 99ers and homeless. We were laid off in August 2008. We are living in our car. Family has turned its back on us and friends help when they can. I'm physically, mentality and emotionally exhausted! Don't know how much longer we can sleep in our car."
"Heartbreaking interviews. I am also laid off as of January 2001."
"Great write-up and actually aids with understanding the subject better."
"I have been unemployed since June 2009. I had a job at a call center for AT&T and after being there for a year I received a 9 cent an hour raise. Two weeks later I was fired! Unbelieveable, I thought maybe this would be my final job until Social Security kicked in. Boy was I wrong. Now I am looking at my last month of unemployment benefits (yes, the place where I worked did not even fight my claim!) I have applied everywhere online and here in town. The veteran's rep. cannot even give me a decent lead on a job in this town. My wife and I have been homeless before and believe me we do NOT want to go back to that terrible situation! No one can even imagine what that is like unless they have been themselves. I am seeing a counselor at the Veteran's Outpatient clinic for depression and stress. Drugs cannot help me get a job and they seem to be useless as I have been on them so long. We can spend tons of money to help Libya, Afghanistan and every other country but not to help people who" Read the rest »
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"Dear Sheila, I will pray for you and your family to recover from these job losses. You seem to have a dear spirit and a lovely personality. If you lived near me, I'd invite you over for a cup of tea. It shocks me that so many nice, hardworking people are suffering from job loss right now. My husband and I have been through a corporate down-sizing and understand what you are going through. Moving to a smaller home in the country helped us cut down on our costs. Many unexpected blessings have come our way in the 8 years since my husband was laid off including two part time jobs for me that each lasted two years. I hope good things like that will happen for you also. I also hope you have help with your health insurance somehow. God bless you. - K. Rostad"
"I wish to say how touched I was by Deborah's interview. There is a woman who sees life clearly and isn't making any excuses, who's reinventing herself and at the same time being foreclosed on. If Deborah can't have some job security after fifteen years in the same job, who can? We are destroying the lives of so many people and sometimes I wonder if it is a plan to impoverish us all and have a nation of peasants, or if it's simply bad judgement on the part of our government and corporations. It certainly isn't Deborah's fault - you can see that the minute she begins speaking. If Deborah reads this, I want to tell you that I love the person you are and wish you the very VERY best in your search for a job."
"I am so sorry for what you are going through. There can be nothing as frustrating as being downsized. The stress of not having money coming in can be unbelievable. We watched 20,000 other people lose their jobs at the same company over a 20 year period before my husband was laid off. The company first changed health insurance, then cut back vacation length and carry over into the next year. Then it canceled standard retirement plans and went to 401K's. Meanwhile it hired temporaries to maximize profits. Following that, my husband was told by his new boss that two people coming out of college could be hired for what he was earning. He had 25 years of continuous education totaling more than 100 classes in his field, in addition to his two degrees. We were later told that the same boss was wondering where the computer programmer went. I guess because it wasn't in the job title, the boss didn't know that my husband did that for them on the side, in addition to understanding how to " Read the rest »
"This is a great service, thank you. How can we find out more about your organization? Is it a nonprofit? Is it also called Over Fifty and Out of Work, or something else? Where is it located? How is it funded? Etc. Also, is there any way to reach you via ordinary email, or by a simpler contact form. I would like to contact you privately (i.e., not in a public comment or on your FB page) for reasons other than putting my story on your site, but the only contact option on the site is the contact form for submitting a personal story. thanks, Pat"
"A small and short lived tax break for the self employed.. Neat :)"
"Hi, You have latched on to a real idea, ie "co-operative housing. I am turning 63 the end of the month, a boomer, and am part of the trail blazering generation who lived in "communes", although I never did so myself. I have been facinated by the idea, ala "kibbutzes". For those who need it, I believe "pooling resources" , ie housing and transportation for our generation is a coming necessity. Many of us do not have children, or have children who live all over the world. Bartering, co-ops, etc is the wave of the future, I believe, but do something before you have no assets left to do it with. Good luck to you and yours,"
"Hi, I am systematically reading through everyone's story, but yours strikes me as outstanding. You are a "problem" solver in that you seem to be able to access any situation and proceed from there, especially in your personal life. I do have one suggestion, which I also give to my husband, who is 64 and still working, thank God........shave the grey part of your beard. Unless you want to work with the Amish, you would appear younger without it. Your thinking process is that of a much younger person, and I feel you handicap yourself by keeping the grey part. Please take this critique in the spirit with which it is given.....and Good Luck ! This "advice" is given to you with the best of wishes, and hopes for your future. You will be an asset to anyone who employs you."
"I filed a lawsuit against Costco Wholesale and 2 pharmacists, who I felt discriminated against me because of age, disability. When I took it to upper management, the retaliation and harrassment was horrendous. Last week, Costco was fond not guilty in a 3 week long trial. I felt I had the best lawyers and I know they gave it there all. Jurors voiced their frustration with the juror instructions when we spoke after the trial. While I am devastated, I want to continue to be an advocate for us baby boomers ( I'm 57), who I know are experiencing this everyday, and it's only going to get worse. Do you have any ideas or suggestions, on on to carry forward with my crusade to make a guilty verdict on age discrimination more attainable? Or how I could work with people who are going through this sad, thoughtless plight. I was just looking through internet and found you. Perhaps there was a reason...:) Denise Krivitsky"
"That is tough Harvey. Why do you think that you haven't even been called for one interview? Is the competition in your work field especially fierce? Looking at your profile on LinkedIn, I am wondering which kinds of jobs you are looking for (applied for)? If you list some of them, maybe someone here might see one of them listed in their area or perhaps in a job resource you do not know about, and can relay that information to you."
"Hi Michael. If you could post a bit about more about your situation, there might be someone here who might have some possibilities for you. Your work background, state and perhaps city you live in, any limiting issues (health, etc.) that might prevent you from doing certain jobs, and whether you would be willing (and able) to move to a new location for a job, are some of the things you might post."
"Michael, thank you for visiting our site and sharing your experience. I hope that you are going to a job support group, so that you do not feel alone. If there is anything we can do -- help you locate a group or pass on job search links that others are using, let us know. Please take a look at the posts in our general comments section -- we have many caring site visitors and some of their advice and tips may be useful to you."
"Born in 1955, I started working when I was in high school. I always believed that no matter what happened, there would always be a job of some kind for me just in case anything fell through. Now here I am, 55 years old, unemployed, a 99er, and there is absolutely nothing out there to be found. I'm fighting desperation, depression, guilt, and trying to keep a positive outlook. But this is really, really hard."
"J.T., I'm not sure if this comment goes to you directly. I wanted to comment on the "Try something new to find a job in 2011" post on the 'Over 50 and out of work" blog. As I was reading, I found the statistics unbelievable, at least based on my own search difficulties and me being 'over 50 and out of work'. If I had known of the blog, I would have jumped on the contest. Lord knows I need help. I've been sending out resumes and networking for one year. I have not been called for one (yes, I have never been called to) interview. The text on (this) your page is not legible. There are places to enter my name, email, and website, but those spaces cover text of your article. Bottom line, I do not want to miss out on your next contest. I will be glad to share my story with your readers and make my best effort to win an amazing offer and contest. Thanks for taking the time to read this, Harvey Justmann hjustmann@sbcglobal.net 216-533-3050"
"I couldn't agree more not only from my experience with my clients over the past several years but also personally. My husband who will turn 65 this year has been looking for work for 2 years."
"The job market has gotten worse in the last 24 months for the middle aged worker . Many of us are alittle to young to retire, or need to work. We can't live without money coming in anymore than any other age group can. What are we to do if they do not pass the 14 weeks of 99 extension. The bill that passed the extension for one year in late 2010 only covered people with more recent problems in the depression. I do not call it a recession when the levels are where they were in the great depression. This bill for 14 weeks to 99er's needs DESPARATELY to be passed if only for the middle aged who are being disciminated against so badly. If we are going to have laws on the books that fight discrimination, WE NEED TO MAKE THEM WORK. THEY DON:T"
"Great story! This illustrates the important role of entrepreneurship in a down economy. FIELD at the Aspen Institute also recommends searching our U.S. directory of microenterprise programs. It provides a listing of organizations by state that can help aspiring business owners with both training and financing: http://fieldus.org/Publications/2008/index.html Best of luck!"
"Fabulous interview! I am delighted to say that Regina is a really special individual and incredible friend! I'm so happy to have been able to help with the internet marketing and their online presence. She and her daughter Becca have done an amazing job of continuing the efforts of spreading their viral presence online! As they say here in Maryland "You go Girl!""
"To hear Mr. Vinson imply that the 10% unemployment rate is a tainted statistic is a very humbling thought. He's absolutely right in that there are thousands of unemployed people that aren't even on "paper." This interview is as real as it gets! While sad and true, I believe that resources like this serves as a "kick in the butt" and a wake up call to younger people of our generation. I say this because I'm realizing that today's youth aren't taking their futures too seriously. In most cases, our own government isn't really on our side. With the consistent outsourcing of jobs by greedy business owners to the way our veterans are treated, we have to develop a sense of self-reliance. It's become plainly obvious that unlike decades of past, we cannot allow ourselves to become complacent with degrees and other forms of paper. While they may increase odds of landing employment, no guarantees come along with it. I have to say that this is my first time on this website and I am already " Read the rest »
"Some valuable information here. She notes that a bigger concern that age may be that you are overqualified. This is an issue for many older workers and it's critical to be prepared to address it. Here is my blog with help on the issue of being overqualified: http://blog.jobfully.com/2010/08/youre-overqualified-what-are-they-really-saying/ I hope this is helpful in figuring out and addressing the true concerns of the employer."
"I've always worked for myself and I'm still in business, but everything is harder. The easy days of making money are over. I wrote a song about two years ago describing how a successful business owner's life was changed by the economic collapse. The first lines (and chorus) are: "I used to be tall, but now I am shorter Brother won't you please come and lend me a quarter." You can read the rest of the lyrics here: http://musicforhumanity.org/musicians/members/11/blog.php These are tough times and I don't have any real answers."
"Joel, I'd hire you in a NY minute if I could. You're right about us Boomers. By and large we never wanted for much of anything unlike our parents who were children of the Depression but you're a shining example of how resourceful our age group can be. Hang in there buddy! Lou"
"I was very impressed with your assessment of being unemployed, of retrenching your financial life in order to go on, even if you had to take a loss in the short term. We have been in a similar situation. My husband was given notice of his upcoming lay-off at age 53, one month after the company learned he had diabetes. The electronics industry was in the midst of huge lay-offs at the time. I kept working as a substitute teacher while we consolidated our assets and property, moving to a very basic home in the countryside and selling our home in town. Our COBRA payments following the lay-off, and for 2 years, were $1100 per month, using up our severance pay. I took a half-time job, which was offered to me, as a para-ed and then became a part-time pre-school teacher with my own classroom again. The discount COBRA was unavailable to us in 2003 and 2004, but our state of Washington, offered a low cost health insurance for those with a low income, which we made use of when our severance " Read the rest »
"Deborah is terrific. Highly energetic, entrepreneurial and motivated to help others. Check out her site at www.deborahshane.com for more info."
"This woman is a great woman! Deborah Shane is a very smart and savvy person. I have no doubt this woman will be a success. She looks great, has a good head on her shoulders, is lucid, has a good handle on her situation, has gumption.........I'd follow her advice, she is the best! Good luck to you Deborah. You have inspired me to continue and move on. I just turned 60 also. Thank you for the motivation. We ain't dead yet."
"Joel, have you checked the website Idealist (www.idealist.org) for a possible position? You mention that you have been involved with grants for a lot of your working life. This website is one of the best compendiums of nonprofit organizations (and the resources they offer and need). Your grant writing might give you an edge with some of the jobs some of these nonprofits are offering."
"Hello Fellow Boomers! I am firm and adament believer that our generation, having grownup between the experience of the depression and today's technology, will lead our own generation, the melleniums and those beyond through this maze of extremes. We have been blessed to have been born for a time such as this. Only the boomers understand how to bridge this gap, for only "we" have the combined knowledge of the past and the present. It's up to us to do the hard things first in order to blaze a new path for ourselves, or children, and grandchildren. After all, one thing that we all know and understand well is, "things change!' Change is in our natures and it's integrated in our DNA. I would appreciate hearing from anyone willing to come together, put our heads together and brainstorm using our combined knowledge and experience to support ourselves and each other. There is a mass of business, personal, and professional know how, right here on the "Over Fifty and Out of Work" w" Read the rest »
"Great video! Thanks for your work in the research that made this video possible. I will share this with my brother who has been out of work for the past two years. Stephen"
"The Long Island Breakfast Club is still going to hold meetings and still assist those that need support for finding jobs. The LIBC will also steer a new direction to provide the organizations expertise as a consultive entity. The LIBC is NOT down and out for the count. The LIBC is better and stronger than ever for 2011. Email or contact the LIBC for more details about its vision for 2011."
"Try being 68 and out of work since end-October 2008. About to run out of unemployment. Fortunately I do have Social Security. I WANT to work at an age when I SHOULD be retired...and I'm about to lose my unemployment. No one value the life and work experience of older workers. They are missing a great opportunity by not hiring me for part-time work (up to 20H/week)."
"Michael, your story is an excellent real-life example of "underemployment". It is a shame that there is not some way to measure this along with the current unemployment figures. I saw a post recently on the web that mentioned that during the Great Depression, those who were no longer looking for work (the discouraged) were included in the commonly cited 25% unemployment figure. Today, if those same discouraged folks were included in the unemployment numbers (they are not), the true current unemployment would be around 16.8%. Plus add in the "underemployed" like yourself, and a much truer picture of the economy emerges. There is no doubt that, in general, businesses out there do not want the higher unemployed/underemployed figures published or disseminated since that likely would only reduce public confidence in the economy and thus could start a negative feedback loop, of budget cuts with businesses and governments and layoffs (which could even further affect the over 50 portion o" Read the rest »
"Out of work since 4/09. Working part time (no chance of full time where I work) making 600.00-700.00 per month, and nothing for two months in the summer. I'm almost 51 with health problems (not from overweight) and suffering from depression. No one gets it."
"You and me both, MG. I think the media is particularly bad and the media in the UK even worse."
"For those potential entrepreneurs, there are a couple of resources that could be useful to some individuals in some situations. Those individuals who have some talent at making things (or painting, creating, etc.), a website called Etsy.com is a marketplace for all things handmade. It could be a possible way to earn some extra money, and/or if the talent is there, a new source of employment. To those who are employed, buying things on the site would help keep someone employed. The second resource is a website called SmartFlix.com. They have a plethora of how-to videos for rent on a wide range of topics. Some individuals could use these videos to attain enough skills to do certain jobs. And these jobs could help them get some additional income in some cases."
"Although I am self-employed, I have tried to follow the issues surrounding the downturn in the economy and especially unemployment. From my perspective, it appears to me that a wide range of businesses used the downturn in the economy as a reason (or excuse) to shed themselves of not only the short-term costs of wages, but more significantly the long-term costs they were facing with workers who had pension benefits due to them (or soon to be due them as in George's case). I think also, the businesses shed themselves of those employees who were a bigger liability in terms of potential health care costs to the firms, short-term and long-term. No doubt, employees over 50 were more likely to have all of these qualities which, again in my view, made them prime targets for dismissal. AND, more importantly, it is an often unstated reason why employers are not wanting to hire them now. I do not think that there was any kind of conspiracy among businesses to do this, but I do think they a" Read the rest »
"Tom- This is great...not great happy, but great words that clearly tell how it is. 2011 HAS to be better! Our prayers will continue... Love-"
"I copied Deborah's update from the general comments section and added it here: Sue, When you interviewed me I was in SWFL, I am now back home in SEFL, Miami/Ft Lauderdale! I really appreciate you allowing me to share my story of reinvention, transition and hope. Life continues with everything that we’ve done and all the wonderful skills and qualities that we have. “Career transition is another beginning and an adventure”. I am living proof of that, especially after 50! Great work."
"Unemployed machinists are buying up used machines from bankrupt manufacturers and making a killing subcontracting small parts manufacturing and rebuilding specialty parts from their garage. Corporate debt and expenses are causing products and services to be cut, leaving wide open business opportunities for entrepreneurs in that market niche."
"What a great resource!"
"Steve, thank you very much for your helpful comments directed at entrepreneurs on our site. How did you find us? In January 2011, we will be doing some interviewing in Pennsylvania where there is a program to help people found companies. Several laid-off older workers have used the resources offered by the program to help them launch their new businesses. Please continue to add your thoughts and the benefit of your experience as a small business owner to our site."
"I have a small service business in Tennessee--pressure washing, awning cleaning and gutter cleaning--and I would be happy to assist anyone who is interested in starting this kind of business in their area. I have been self-employed for most of my adult life from the time I graduated college. If you are individual who thinks that you would like to be in business for yourself, then there are some local resources that can help you get started. However, these resources, from my experience, are often too general in nature. One way to get specific information on running a particular business is to get a newspaper from another area of the country than your own and check the business directory of the newspaper (near the classifieds usually). Look for a type of business you would like to be involved in. If you have few funds to get started, then choose one that requires low startup resources. Then, get a few back issues of the newspaper and see which advertisers in that section have be" Read the rest »
"Bob posted this update in our general comments section, and I added it here: I was one of the first to be interviewed by Sue when she started this project, and wanted to provide a follow-up to my video. In late October, I landed a consulting position as an IT Project Manager at a global manufacturing firm. It is a great opportunity and I am very pleased to have landed there. If there is one lesson that my transition has taught me, it is that transition is permanent, and jobs are temporary. As a result, I continue to network and help others in their employment quest. Thank you Sue, for giving me the opportunity to tell my story."
"Maureen, thank you for your comment."
"I'm not quite 50 yet (49), but I have run into the same kind of discrimination on the few job interviews I've had. Invariably they tell me I'm "overqualified" - which is code for anything from "you're too old" to "you're likely to leave when something better comes along". I've checked in at each one a few weeks later, ostensibly to see if there are any new openings, and every time the person they hired is half my age - with 1/4 of my intellect and 1/10 my experience. I came up with an alternative to the Obama/GOP tax plan that would help reverse that trend by giving the tax breaks to employers that hire directly from the unemployment rolls, and scaling them so that the largest incentives were paid for hiring the 99ers and long-term unemployed. That would have helped get us back to work, and helped boost the economy too. http://hiretrainretainact.blogspot.com/ Give it a read when you have a chance, and if you agree, share it with others. Whether or not we can get any att" Read the rest »
"Thank you for bringing Mr. Dan Sato's story. It was a refreshing one to hear amidst the time of confusion. It really empowers me to do better in life and my academic life as a student. And I really do agree that this recession is a curious one."
"I used the information from this clip for my presentation in a class. The word "stereotype" is widely used nowadays, but this clip provided me a whole new version of a stereotype. I think the results of this research has a variety of possibilities to be applied in education or policy for both younger and older people. I am extremely grateful to both researchers and creators of this website for making this research available to the public."
"My heart goes out to Rick. He could be my husband who lost his job in August of 2007. Similar way, similar feelings and emotions and same results."
"We are soon to be one of them too--any week. Over fifty and unemployed after working your whole life is the hardest challenge we have ever faced. Top that off with I live in Florida where it is ever worse."
"There were 30 people at the event, chanting: Obama, Jobs!; Bernanke, Jobs!; Schumer, Jobs! We want work! G O P can't see! Open the vaults! We need a J O B to E A T among others."
"Thank you very much, Carol. I will make sure he gets your generous comment."
"Mr. McClatchey of Michigan seems flexible, making me wonder if he would like to help my brother in Walled Lake, Michigan. He is doing a landmark business in real estate, leasing homes and other propreties for people who leave to find jobs elsewhere. My brother has been in property management for 30 years and is very hardworking and honest. From time to time he hires people to work for him as managers, etc. Please have Mr. McClatchey respond if he's interested. I don't know if my brother pays health or retirement benefits."
"I am 50 and have been out of work for 17 months. I have applied for hundreds of positions with the company that eliminated my job. I was and am willing to relocate. I was successful with my company and never missed a day of work for the 6 years I worked for this company. I started as a greeter in 2003, became a Customer Service Representitive, Retail Sales Representitive and was promoted to a District Sales Consultant. After doing a good job in that position I was promoted to a Regional Sales Consultant for Southern California. My inititive was retail to business and lead the region to the top in the enterprise, because of this, there was not a need for a consultant and my job was eliminated. I have applied for Business Sales, Manager and Assistant Manager positions, Retail Sales, and Customer Service Positions. No luck! I have never even had a face to face interview. I had a couple of telephone interviews, but in most cases I recieved a letter (Email) stating "I was no" Read the rest »
"Your work is commendable Susan. Very informative and astute insights from Susan and Mike...missing: action plans, for employer, employee, educators and society to change these perceptions and the new Paradigm that the Information Age has created.Thank you Susan for keeping me in the loop. Bob My typing skills are close to pre-historic thus the lack of elaboration."
"I listened to Dan Sato..........who was so inspirational. Our recession was so different from those previously experienced. "It was a loss of human capital across the entire economy of the United States." How true that statement is. Another great point he mentioned is saying "yes" to opportunities. Thank you Dan! We all need your positive spins these days!"
"Given all the current 'chatter' about the deficit, ergo, the economy, this video puts a face to the dillema facing the nation. When you multiply this story by 15,000,000,000, these people come out of the shadows and shake the reality that is ours. This should go beyond a viral video/blog and to the hearts of our congressional leaders and the President. Congratulations for an enlightening piece of journalism."
"Laurie, thank you very much for posting on our site and letting us know about your situation."
"I'm am 52 yrs old and unemployed. I'm a registered nurse and never dreamed I would be out of work. I would make comments at work about how blessed I was because my career could not be touched by the mess our country is in . I now am starting to believe I was let go because of my age. The Facility Administrator is now a 25 year old man and from what I'm hearing through former co-workers is that most of the staff over 40 years old are gone for one reason or another. The new staff being brought in are mostly under 40. (Way under 40). The company I worked for is a multimillion dollar company and none of the employees let go would be able to prove it was because of age discrimination. I have been looking for work for 7 months. It is funny that I saw the video of Brian King and Jessica because just the night before it dawned on me that maybe the reason I'm not finding work is because of my age. The panic rises in my throat just typing this."
"Seeing the video now is very sad. My house was sold and I have to be out of it by September 30, 2010. At the end of June I was fired from my job. The only place I could find to live was renting a room in some one house. To rent apt. want to see income, unemployment is not good income for them."
"Dear Mary, How did our grandparents manage before us in the Great Depression? Once again we are in an economy/job market that is devastatingly unstable in some parts of the United States. I don't know your details and I am sure you have done so much to get back on track. Have faith and please try to keep yourself mentally, physically and socially stimulated. My thoughts are with you. Patricia"
"Mary, I read your story on Susan Sipprelle's blog, www.overfiftyandoutofwork.com, and my heart went out to you. It is so frustrating to be over 50 and out of work in this current time when you know so many private sector firms are flush with cash (in the trillions) but refuse to invest in expansion and staff additions because of the uncertain business environment. So many people I know have spent months, even years, sitting in front of their computer sending hundreds (even thousands) of job applications and resumes out without receiving a single response from the Human Resources Departments of the prospective employers (your comment about the federal government struck a chord with me by the way). If there ever was a way to make a person feel isolated and unwanted, this process is it. That being said, there is a way out. Here are the lessons I learned when I was in the same position as you: *Get out from behind the computer and join as many job networking groups as you can b" Read the rest »
"Thank you, Donna!"
"Just had a chance to view your site. It's very sharp, good work by all. Hope that your project is successful and all that you hope it to be. I will tell everyone to take a look."