The Aftermath

Green Lantern and Money should go hand in hand.

Jasmine (I thing that's her name) needs a thicker skin.

I'm certain that my anger towards the Wachovia situation is well understood. I was not abusive on the phone to any of the representatives I spoke with. I was even told by some colleagues around me that, given the situation, I was more than pleasant. Now, at one point Jasmine was yanking my chain. I made it clear that I did not want to receive help from her, no offense, but that I only wanted to talk to ONE individual and I gave her his name. The name of the very person spoke with when the issue first started. Not being one to take no for an answer, and trust me, she understood clearly that I was not releasing information to her. She continued to ask me questions. I told her that I was through answering Wachovia Questions and Wachovia was going to answer mine.

Backtrack a bit

At lunch I went to my local Wachovia Branch and spoke with a gentleman that got to listen to about 20 minutes of my pissed-off'ed-ness, nicely put; and not being able to say anything because I was on a roll. I started by giving him my driver's license and bank card and told him to verify me. And then I asked him what truck he tried to purchase within the last 5 years. It seems that he was not aware of Regulation E (though it exists). End result, he helped me as much as he could and noted my policy and verified me and noted my policy further. I can only trust that he will convey my frustration upward, and also share my dissatisfaction with their Fraud Department security verification procedures. I'll get to that in a minute.

It seems that the 'supervisor' I spoke with yesterday did not put any hold/restrictions on my card; but she was a smart bitch and tweaked my nipple enough to piss me off, which in turn only spread the joy that is ME, amongst her peers. My money was always available. I seems that the Customer Service Center uses standard security questions (SSN, DOB, Address, Zip code, yadda yadda). But when a purchase is coded a potential fraud, it can trigger a requirement for additional questions associated to your social security number, and not your credit report as the first lovely supervisor told me. Either way, I'm not jiggy with the questions:

What truck did I try to purchase in the past 5 years - Answer is, I didn't
What relation to me is (Name) - answer is, Sister
What relation to me is (Name) - answer is, Mother
There was another question, but I forget what it was.

I understood the purpose of the question. But I found it offensive, invasive, and harassing to asking me questions that did not pertain to my business relationship with Wachovia. I would prefer a question like, "You write a monthly check for $302.62. To which company is that check written?" See how that question does not invade on purchase habits that do not relate Wachovia. See how that question does not interfere in my personal family life? Well, Wachovia is getting a complaint letter from me. oooooh scarey I know, but still, they need to hear my rant.

Well, back to Miss Over-Sensitive who was asking me too many questions that I was not about to answer. She was instant messaging the dude I needed to chat with. 10 minutes of her chatting with him, she finally tells me that she's not sure she will transfer the call because I would not respond to her questions. So I told her she was really pissing me off and to please let me talk to the person I asked for, that is apparently available. She proceeded to chastise me for using offensive language. Ummmm hello, if she had taken any of the 15 minutes we had been on the phone to read the trail of notes in my account, she would have realized why I was calling. Seriously, "pissing" was so terribly offensive to her that she felt negatively impacted. She needs a thicker skin if she's going to do that job. Or she needs to not use that ploy anymore cause she got called on it. But she did get the last laugh because she hung up on me. bitch, yes she did.

Dude kindly called me back within 5 minutes.

Research on his part revealed something he did not know. A fraud alert in their systems can be rescinded, but needs 24 hours to cycle; don't try to re-submit the purchase. subsequent repurchases within the 24 hour rescission window, extends the window an additional 24 hours for each violation. AH, that's why it keeps declining the purchase.

**I have elected not to proceed with that purchase**
**and I'm also considering other actions.**
Thank you Dude.
Go to Hell Dudette, Bitch Supervisor #1, and Double-Bitch Supervisor #2, and thank you Mr. Local Wachovia Branch guy.

The break is over

I hope the artist can deal with my editing his shouts.

I've needed a break from blogging. I have been really moody and I didn't want to put that energy out into the universe. Well, I did - but I just didn't. I still feel that way. And then I got my Intestinal madness and bacterial Michelin Man disease. Which by the way is not entirely better. I'm struggling with the recovery. My intestines feel as if they are bloated (they are) and extend around me by a foot and down (they don't, but I am wearing my fatman pants). I feel constipated, but I assure you that I am ooooh so very NOT. And I'm moody... but I digress.

So today was back to work after a week away. Away from work, but around. And boy did I get pissed right the fuck off and shit for business got done today. (not true, but felt like it.)

Last week I attempted to make a purchase online with my Wachovia card. I admit it was a purchase outside my norm. It was declined. Okay, that's fine, I understood that. So I called Wachovia to clear it up. I talked with a rather nice guy that asked me the usual security questions and all was well and I could make my purchases. OOOOH No the hell I could not - still declined. Called Wachovia back and could not get the nice guy I talked to. But did get a nice lady, who wasn't the most helpful. So I asked for a manager - it was resolved. Well that seemed so nice and "too" easy. It was.

Between Thursday and Friday I made multiple attempts to resolve this matter. And then all of a sudden it seems the tables turned against me. I became the culprit. I was being treated like I was attempting to steal (identity theft) myself. I was being asked questions that were beyond the scope of the normal security questions. What the hell was this? And all reasonable help to be able to make a $100 purchase from my pitiful $3000 of savings became a battle for my identity. Rest assured that over the weekend, I spoke with a Wachovia rep that was indeed less helpful but assured me that I could make my purchase. Again, no..... declined.

So today, I was not a happy camper trying to make my 'simple' purchase. I spoke with a supervisor. You know the kind with the sugary soft sultry calming voice. Well frankly she didn't realize the prick she was talking to. Because I can be nice, and equally sugary with a ton more sarcasm to back it up. She wanted me to answer additional questions that I found to be harassing and NONE OF THEIR BUSINESS. She wanted me to tell her what type of Truck purchase I had attempted within the past 5 years. She named my a person in my life and wanted to know my relation to her. She named another person in my life and wanted to know my relation to her as well. Answering these questions would have allowed me to get her, to release the funds to make the purchase. 5 days later, she asks me these additional security questions. See I not only have a problem with the additional intrusive security questions that I find to be customer service harassment (apparently allowed under the Electronic Fund Transfer Act - Regulation "E"); but I also find it frustrating that 5 day prior I was the same person (Identity thief or NOT) and allowed to have access to my money.

The kicker to this whole Bitch of a situation is this... Since I refused to be the monkey they wanted by answering their additional security questions, Ms. Bitch locked up my $100 AND the remaining balance. (Insert even more colorful epithets right the fuck HERE.)

Welcome back to blogging Thomas.

VA State Police - Again

Do the VA State Police have to memorize the Trooper's Pledge? Well if they do, they forget much of it. Two State Troopers (traveling pairs again on 64 East/Why always East?) were pacing traffic this afternoon at a comfortable clip of 65 mph in the 55mph zone. So I'm not complaining about their disregard for the speed limit. But I am a tad pissed that they don't use their signals.

• Trooper-whoever in the car with license plate number 5082. You headed north on 95 from 64 East. You might consider providing more advanced notice than the nanosecond ghetto-blink of your directional signal. I'm glad I wasn't in the lane you suddenly decided to merge into.
  • Buddy Trooper (License plate number 4972) that head south on 95. You are a complete ass, not even giving some old guy in a clunker (not me, I'm not that old) even the courtesy of the ghetto-blink.

Yes, I have a good memory, but I also text while driving. But I use my god-damned directional signal! And so should you. okay I'm done whining. But then again, I'm still a bit bitter about your response time from when I was shot at on I-64.

Today was a good day. I fit into a green sweater that I had not worn in years. And by "fit", I mean I stretched that sucker to hell and back last night and a bit more this morning so it would fit. I wanted to wear that because it was chilly out and it was the shade of green that fancied my mood.

No Stephanie, there is no Irish Code about what constitutes as Green clothing appropriate to wear on St. Patrick's Day. Your green jacket was fine. I'm sorry I made you feel joked into going home at lunch to get a green shirt. *if your wondering - For Real!*

Green - oh yeah! Where the heck is my money going? GAS BILLS, that's where. Most abundant resource there is, MY ASS. *okay so I had one more whine*

Brain Power

There Are "0" Gaps in My Knowledge

Where I have gaps in my knowledge: No Gaps! Where I don't have gaps in my knowledge: Philosophy Religion Economics Literature History Science Art

Do You Have Gaps in Your Knowledge?

Okay, so if I'm so smart why do I feel so completely dumb lately? I almost got into an accident this morning because I was not paying attention to the other guy. All my files at work are in a disorganized mess. My plan is just not coming together with the work I have to do. I did manage to get one letter written today on a very overdue issue that required more brainpower that I wanted to provide. I didn't want to write the letter mainly because I can't help a person that I really want to be able to help; but my hands are tied. I need to shake off this soft compassionate side that is hindering my objectivity. Whoa Whoa Whoa!!! What did I just say? No, that ain't right. Not right at all. The situation just sucked for a customer and I had no way to fight to a "yes" for her. But I did respond in my educational, helpful and empathetic manner that is important to me. It's just some decisions suck more than others. And some external resources just aren't as helpful as they should be. Then I had dinner with my buddy Wayne and I think I pressed to hard about him finding a job. He accepted it but I could tell that it bothered him. And the prick that I am pushed the point of asking him what color he wanted me to paint his room in my house when it comes time for him to move in. I can be such an ass. But if it comes to it, my home is his; because his home has been mine before. I think my minds just a mess right now. But I did have two gentlemen today thank me for being patient with them. One went so far as to say that I missed my calling as a psychologist. I did actually, only because I knew that I'm more sponge than mirror. I would totally take on people's problems as my own were I to be a counselor. So I take my psychology degree and exercise the soft skills outward into the world to assist people. I focus on the mirror reflecting and I don't absorb. Who am I'm fooling. I so very much absorb.

On another note: Circuit City is a local business that has been fighting to survive. They have products that appeal to all purchase ranges and wallet sizes. I'm fighting myself to tell you to boycott the City because I think they could have done better and because yet again they let several friends go today. But I like the City so much better than Best Buy. Maybe it's the old-school in me. But I say "Save the City".

Gas Prices

With gas prices at my favorite station charging $2.68 a gallon for regular unleaded; dropping about .04 cents a day, I was thinking:
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22 days left until election day - at .04 cents a day, is there time enough for an .88 cent drop. Might gas prices go down that far? Is a $1.80 a gallon in our future? *I can dream*
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I can't wait to see the amazing jump in gas prices on November 8th, back to over $3.50 a gallon for regular unleaded.
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Now if I can just figure who my vote goes to for a current Thank you.
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*Nobama*

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End of Day update: $2.54/gal at my favorite station

Money

Don't worry, all will return to normal. The rich will get richer when all is said and done. Weeeee - but enjoy the ride while it lasts!

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Financial happenings like what we have right now keep me in job security.

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Okay, so I might be trying to stretch my pollyanna just a tad. What's wrong with looking on the bright side?

Mega Millions

"Dear Jesus, Please let me win!"

$$$

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Last night I stopped by a little mini-mart near where my friend Wayne lives. He had invited me over for dinner and I could not pass up free food. As a rule I stop by the mini to get 2 Mega Million lottery tickets worth $5.00 a piece. But only when the Jackpot is over $50 million. I don't know why I chose $50 million as my buy mark. One ticket is for me and the other one is for Wayne and me to share. We agreed the ticket we share is chosen by the ticket that has the highest Mega Ball closest to his age. He's a wee bit older than I am.

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You might be wondering why I would do that. Almost 6 years ago, I was struggling. Wayne took me in to help me get back on my feet. For 15 months my bed was his den floor. It took a bit of time to find a job because Richmond can be 'difficult.' That's the nicest way I can put this city when it comes to hunting for a job, career, or whatever you want to call the ritual that pays the bills. Just about every paycheck went to him to repay all he had done for me, plus utilities and food. I never really cared to define one person as a "best" friend. But Wayne is just that, and no one will ever be able to fill those shoes. I love him, but I'm not in-love with him and we both agree that it will never be like that. But because of his unselfish kindness, I am willing to share 1/2 a Mega Million Jackpot with him. I'm not stupid I want some for myself! Well I sidetracked from my original intent of this post.

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Fast-forward to the mini-mart. I'm waiting in line, a rather long line, but I had gotten to about 4th from the person at the counter. Thank goodness they have a different line for non-lottery purchasers. The woman at the counter, pulled out a envelope stuffed with lottery tickets. Everyone in line shifted position in disbelief and collectively *sighed.* As the cashier rang each ticket, she said a little chant. Not quite audible at first, mostly because I wasn't paying attention. But when I did listen, I realized she was saying, "Dear Jesus, please let me win!" A man several positions behind me said, "Jesus Christ lady, he's not going to help you win the lottery!" plus a few more colorful words. I thought to myself, Self "He stole my line!"

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When she had finished all her "Dear Jesus'" and paid her tab, her bill came to $300 even. The same man that had yelled to her, let out a 'holy fuck.' And the line shifted position again and let out another collective *sigh.* And I couldn't help but think THAT jerk stole my lines TWICE.

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The Mega Millions jackpot is now $105 million. By the time you read this post, if you haven't done so already, you will not be able to get a ticket. I thought of that too!

Medical Bills

I love coming home to bills, don't you? I received my phone bill today and was not surprised to see a negative balance. I had paid it forward a month. I also received my natural gas bill. This was not paid forward, but I was still happy to see it not have winter bill figures. Then there was the ominous Bon Secours Richmond Health System envelope. Oh yes, I've been expecting this one since I had to go to St. Mary's Hospital for tests. You'll recall my recent mega-sickness. I'm still waiting for my doctor's bill.

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Sidebar: My job is to respond to customer grievances. Not only just respond to them, but to respond in a manner that is pleasant, informative and conveys a sense of regret over customer issues. Now that sounds rather placating and insincere. I try my best to veer from sounding phony because I actually do care about my company's reputation and responsive corrective actions.

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Back on track: The envelope from Bon Secours was not a bill. Rather it was a letter. A simple little letter. Oh but it was so much more. They thanked me for selecting them and offered up that they had been in business since 1824. Blah, Blah, Blah. I'd much rather get the bill and move on. But this letter alerted me to the fact that they were in contact with my insurance provider. They nicely avoid referring to my medical experience and debt to them. Then they eloquently establish their confidence that my insurance provider will act in professional and prompt manner. And lest I forget, they also express their confidence in my ability to avoid delays in responding to the eventual bill to come.

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I feel like I just got hosed down with glitter and love from the medical mafia. Gosh I hope my letters don't read like this correspondence.

Carbon Credits

Money For Nothing

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This is a fascinating bit of information.

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Carbon Credits

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Read for yourself, I can't educate you well enough here. But people are making money this way. I'm just amazed.

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Also read:

• http://www.canadafreepress.com/2007/cover031307.htm
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emissions_trading
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_project
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_footprint

Economic Stimulus

Economic Stimulus Package Payments Begin

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DIRECT DEPOSIT
Last 2 SSN digits..... Payment by
00 through 20......... May 2
21 through 75......... May 9
76 through 99......... May 16

PAPER CHECK
Last 2 SSN digits..... Payments by
00 through 09......... May 16
10 through 18......... May 23
19 through 25......... May 30
26 through 38......... June 6
39 through 51......... June 13
52 through 63......... June 20
64 through 75......... June 27
76 through 87......... July 4
88 through 99......... July 11

Filing a return after April 15 will delay your stimulus payment, probably about 2 weeks later than the schedule shows. A return must be filed by October 15 in order to receive a stimulus payment. See online calculator for an estimate of the amount you will receive.

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Everyone seems to be expecting their $600 or $1200 whole dollar amounts. The wording actually says you will receive "UP TO" those amounts. I worked the online calculator with my 2007 tax information and it said "You may receive." So I guess I'll have to wait and see how much stimulating Uncle Sam believes I deserve. But, I'll get to wait the longest for my paper check and my SSN ending in the 90's. Woot!

Kia wins

Recently I posted about my state tax return. Now is the Feds turn. Still quite happy that I bought a house and get reap a higher return. Don't get all giddy, in the scheme of things it doesn't make me rich. But it will help me pay the bills. As I was speeding along I-64 today I noticed my odometer and it was creeping close to 50,000 miles. The picture above is a very close likeness of what I drive. Sadly it's not my Mercury Mountaineer I once had, but it hauls my fanny to and fro. Anyhow, at 50,000 miles I have to get a mandatory servicing completed. I had to have one of those at 25,000 miles. Nice and expensive warranty requirement. Well over 1/3 of my return will go to pay KIA for that service. It will be timely though, right before a trip to see mother and daddy in New York and in time for my state inspection all wrapped into one big bundle of cash for KIA - goody for them. Oh, so I need some of that cash for trip. And I have some bills earmarked for the money. Not sure I'll be getting a laptop Jadielady. And I'm not sure I'll be getting a newer desktop, but I'm still thinking about it. The realization that I have that car stuff hit me before I spent like a child. But the warranty is definitely worth because I had to get a brand new transmission last summer. That would have set me back over $3,000.00. Since I kept the warranty current, KIA had to suck all that up. So it pays to sacrifice on occasion.

VA State Tax Return

I mailed my 2007 Federal and State Tax returns the second week of February. Today I received my Virginia State return in the mail. Side note: My dog put a nice bite mark in the end of the check but I can still cash it. I'm rather thrilled when I get my state return. Yes thrilled. It is the smaller of the two checks and your thrilled Thomas? Yes, because for years I would have to pay Virginia. I never understood how I could owe the state money and still get money from the Fed's, but I'm no CPA. Well since I purchased my house, I get money back from the state and that just makes me giddy. Though Richmond City worked my last nerve jacking my house assessment by 94% (yes, that's the correct number, but I was able to fight them to reduce that figure). So anyhow, I'll put that money toward my bills and be responsible. My inner child wants to waste it on something frivolous, but I know I will be better off listening to the adult in me. Hey hey hey, the adult exists!!!

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So I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Virginia Housing Development Authority. They helped make it possible for me to be a homeowner. They have a first-time home buyers course you can take at their Belvidere Location. After completing the course, you can then qualify for certain loans that others might not be able to. If you have ever owned a house you can still qualify as a first-time homeowner if you have not had a mortgage payment in over three years (last I knew). I really encourage you to seek out their programs if you're considering buying a home. Just do it. Renting goes into someone else's pocket and you're paying them rent that you could be paying for a mortgage and you'll never see that money again. Unless you buy, you're saying 'so long' to your State tax return money. Thank you VHDA.