Happy Birthday, President Obama

COMMENTARY | President Obama is headed for Chicago on his birthday. As you hit the big 5-0, I just thought I would remind you of a few things. You are now eligible to join the great association of AARP (American Association of Retired People). You are officially, dare I say it, a senior citizen. This will qualify you for a senior coffee at most McDonald's restaurants.

You can now view the world through a different age category. It is very different from our side of the fence. Below are three suggestions that could help our country out and make your presidency easier.

Gas Prices

Even with lower gas prices during June, the economy was stagnant. If the price could be stabilized and even lowered, it could improve the economy. I think it is one of the major factors in this prolonged recession. High gas prices have hurt everything from the travel industry to family budgets. Businesses that rely on gasoline as part of their expenses have to limit the number of employees to stay within their budget. If we know this is a major problem facing our economy, then it needs to addressed with a higher priority.

Jobs

I know that as the president you have a lot on your mind. You should have, because this is the position you always wanted to be in. From a governing point of view, I would like to ask you to make job development your number one priority. I know you can't do this by yourself. I would suggest an eight-person committee of three Democrats, three Republicans and two outsiders from the work force. No politics allowed, just ways to develop jobs. These eight would supersede any other political committees when it comes to job development.

Why Not Bonds?

During World War II, they had war bonds. Now I know that we have T-Bonds. I think many Americans would once again invest in bonds if they served one particular purpose. That purpose would be debt reduction. Make these bonds for education, retirement or even health care. Make this a special program different from the others. Americans would help reduce the present debt if their investments went specifically for it.

Final Birthday Advice

I have found that the best way to celebrate a birthday is to just let it happen. Don't go out of your way to do anything special. Whatever happens will make it a better memory for you. Happy Birthday, Mr. President.