POVERTY: Here are roots of problem

Referring to Sholeh Patrick’s article “Poverty Closer Than it Used to Be” — Sholeh suggests doubling the minimum wage. I don’t agree. It’ll drive all goods and services much higher, destroying huge numbers of businesses.

Unemployment will skyrocket. This would especially hurt those at poverty levels and anyone thinking starting their own business. Let’s not forget the enormous amount of government subsidies available to low-income folks. 

Sholeh states conquering poverty isn’t as simple as “work hard and you’ll do well.” I beg to differ. Working hard will get you everywhere because you’ll be miles ahead of those who don’t or won’t. Hard work is the backbone of America’s success and most often not accomplished in a 40-hour work week. 

Hard (and wise) workers leave their cellphones in their cars, problems at home, do not bad-mouth their boss and co-workers, show up for work on time and never call in sick when not sick (sniffles don’t count). 

Inflation is the culprit. It simply sucks the life out of low/middle income earners. High energy costs and inflation go hand in glove.

 Oil independence is critical and sadly, Biden declared war on fossil fuel his first day in office. We’re printing and spending money like fools. So what to do? Cut spending? Nope, we’ll just buy another printer. The following is food for thought.  

1 million seconds equals 12 days.

1 billion seconds equals 32 years.

1 trillion seconds equals 31,710 years.

Our debt is $34 trillion. In seconds, 1 million, 77 thousand, 392 YEARS! A perfect storm is brewing and getting worse every second. Kinda like a jackrabbit trying to stay ahead of a freight train.  

MARVIN GEORGE MILLER

Coeur d’Alene