When will these senseless killings stop?
This is such a red hot topic, especially since the frequency of these incidents increase and since the very recent deaths of several unarmed citizens. Of course, I do not know the answer on how to prevent these tragedies; however, it is an overly serious problem. Granted, I understand I’m opening a can of worms here, but genuine, compassionate, and non-judgmental dialogue must begin and a viable solution must be made available …and fast!
Police who find themselves in these situations all have valid points when an unknown suspect has a weapon, and they fear for their lives. Yet, when a suspect has no gun, then the lines clearly become most blurred, and theoretically, no one should die. Sadly, one of the most recent tragedies occurred in Ferguson, MO, just a short four months ago, and the policeman was found innocent, resulting in protests and riots across major cities of America.
Unbelievably this also happened in July, 2014, when an asthmatic man was strangled to death by a policeman delivery a prohibited choke hold. “The horrible events surrounding the death of Eric Garner have revealed a deep crisis of confidence in some of the fundamental elements of our criminal justice system,” Schneiderman said in a statement. “Nothing could be more critical for both the public and the police officers who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe than acting immediately to restore trust.”
Non-profiling policies administered at the federal level for law enforcement
As a direct result of the recent police shootings, straight from a committee’s policy table, the Obama administration is releasing federal guidelines that refrain law enforcement from profiling people based on national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Wow, how fantastic is that? Albeit, long overdue!
While state and local personnel are working in conjunction with the Feds, they must comply with new said rules. However, given this is at the national level, these are unfortunately, and to my chagrin, only suggestions –to be used as a template– for our local and state police. “What???” I scream, as if someone’s in the room with me… “but it’s at the local level that these police killings are occurring!” I mumble under my breath, hoping and praying Eric Holder will make the “guidelines” enforceable at the local and state level.
“As [US] Attorney General, I have repeatedly made clear that profiling by law enforcement is not only wrong, it is profoundly misguided and ineffective,” Eric Holder said. “Particularly in light of certain recent incidents we’ve seen at the local level, and the widespread concerns about trust in the criminal justice process, it’s imperative that we take every possible action to institute strong and sound policing practices.”
Honestly, who really wants to be shackled to the bank fulfilling a 30 year mortgage?
“And now for something completely different” (chuckling internally, as I envision a giant foot coming down squashing someone in the opening cartoon of Monty Python’s Flying Circus) …we now deviate away from police and federal happenings to finance. I’ve found some advice that seems most practical. Do enjoy!
“The 30 year mortgage robs your future…. It simply enabled borrowers to buy more house than [you] could afford by spreading the payments out over a longer term. On top of that, those homeowners paid tens –even hundreds– of thousands of dollars more in interest”, declares financial mentor Dave Ramsey. Instead of a 30 year mortgage, Dave recommends getting a 15 year mortgage with “at least a 10% down payment and monthly payments that are no more than 25% of your take-home pay.” Of course, if you cannot afford the 15 year payments then don’t risk it –play it safe.
There’s a government program called Home Affordable Refinance Plan (HARP), which allows you to refinance your house to pay lower monthly mortgages. Dave encourages, “If you owe less than $650,000 on your mortgage, the chances of qualifying for this program could be high. Homeowners who have refinanced have saved on average $250 per month.
Doing the math… that’s $3K a year, which you can redirect toward something else you’d like, maybe place into savings or use as a down payment for a new car. “Close to a million homeowners could still benefit today, but sadly, many perceive HARP to be too good to be true. Remember, HARP is a free government program and there’s absolutely NO COST to see if you qualify.”
Dave Ramsey’s Advice on Mortgage by Staff Writers on Bills.com.
Please remember, beloveds, even if your current situation is heavy, know that this too shall pass! Until next time….
We Are All One
Gavin