Home of Today's Common Sense

Published Brownsville Herald February 14, 2011

The economy and the government response to it leave a lot to be desired. You know the economy is getting bad when it gets to you. It has gotten to me, so it is bad.
I am a federal employee and retired around 20-plus years ago, so my pension is not lucrative. Additionally, I have medical problems that require attention three times a week.
My first paycheck of 2011 it was 1 percent lower in net dollars, due to tax and health cost changes. I thought those of us on the lower-middle rung would not be squeezed any further. I have been considering moving to the Philippines to get the most out of my health dollar. That choice is becoming more real every day.
This penny pinching has even found its way into one of my favorite restaurants. Since I rarely go out, I order takeout. Recently I ordered a favorite dish from a local Chinese restaurant, a delightful mixture of seafood and vegetables with a delicious dipping sauce. When I received the order it included one bowl of hot steamed vegetables, some seafood, some rice and soy sauce — with no dipping sauce or other spice.
I called the restaurant, which made no real effort to supply even the dipping sauce! This is indeed sad; I have visited the restaurant regularly and knew the proprietors.
I have noticed restaurants and businesses in general scrimping on quality and attention to service when times become difficult, which sometimes precipitates more losses. The really good adjust so they can continue providing the best quality and service at a reasonable cost. More »