[Lynn]

Just reconnected with an old friend of mine. He owned three specialty stores, and is down to one location now. Had a young lady that he was paying a living wage to manage one of his stores. She is getting so much in extra benefits that by the time she figures in the cost to commute, she is making more staying at home. Had to close a second store.

I have never checked into unemployment benefits, so I don't know how it works. But I THOUGHT you had to show that you were seeking employment to get extensions on your benefits. Apparently there is no box to check that says: "My boss is begging me to come back to work, but I am making more sucking off the Gov. mammary gland." Or if there is, she isn't checking it.

I really don't know, and I don't listen to all the talking heads who are "experts" on unemployment benefits, but it seems to me, that is one reason we have work shortage. Finally got a compressor today that I have been waiting 8 weeks on. When I picked it up, the sales guy apologized, and told me they are waiting on everything right now. The manufacturers don't have enough workers to get products to market.

I can't get concrete delivered. Period. Was told there is a concrete shortage, and only the regular contractors with commercial accounts can get it. It's all they can do to keep up with the regulars. Found a contractor that would order it for me; but I have to pay him 15% mark up on the delivered price.

Rant over. Sorry for crapping on one of the all time great threads. Mods; feel free to delete. You won't hurt my feelings.