Several years ago, Wendy's ran a very successful and memorable ad campaign with an old woman screaming, "Where's the Beef?" This ad's theme, for those who may have forgotten it or never seen it was that Wendy's competitor's hamburgers were very, very small, while Wendy's burgers were substantial. This same slogan can be used when talking about and/ or evaluating the main two programs that the President and the Congress have been spending so much time on - - health care, and joblessness.
Yesterday, President Obama gave a speech (it is beginning to seem like the "Speech of the Day" club) about how he would like to have Congress address the extremely high unemployment situation (What took so long?). Some of the President's suggestions included help for small businesses, transportation, energy- efficient homes, etc. Mr. Obama stated that the U.S. has to "spend our way out of this recession." Since more than 7 million Americans have lost their jobs since the recession began about two years ago, and the unemployment rate is 10% (that's the statistic although the reality is far higher), Mr. Obama called the rate "staggering" and made several proposals (cost estimates of about $150 billion +) he said would stimulate hiring and put Americans back to work again. Those proposals included: bridge and highway construction (MY NOTE- short-term and long-term, infrastructure programs usually add value and provide something eventually needed); for small business tax cuts (including elimination of capital gains if expenditure was accompanied by adding jobs); and credits for making homes more energy efficient. In addition, the President recommended more protections re health insurance for laid off workers, and suggested additional spending for seniors and veterans, and additional aid to states and municipalities so they won't have to lay off workers. This plan, of course, would have to go through and be approved by a splintered Congress, which is extremely time consuming and the result is unsure. All of this is being proposed while the President continues to talk about the need to address the growing Federal deficit. Many Republican leaders have already scoffed at this proposal, and if any program finally passes, I fear it may be another case of "too little, too late," and contain as much "pork" as effective program. It is always easy to criticize and point out the weaknesses in a plan, but isn't it about time for politicians to actually work FOR their constituency, instead of constantly playing politics (SEE YESTERDAY'S BLOG ABOUT POLITICIANS VS STATESMEN)?
In the meantime, the health plan debate goes on. Last night, an announcement was made that a compromise was reached where the "public option" would be replaced by a different alternative. There was another announcement that a vote was taken regarding language about abortion, and the more severe exclusionary language would not be included. Since the House bill that was passed last month will differ substantially from this Senate bill, a joint compromise bill will have to be arrived at, after which both the House and the Senate will have to approve. Further complicating the matter is certain language in each version appears to be distasteful to a large number of the supporters of the other version. The truly sad thing is, that after all this time and expense, if and when a final bill is approved, there is no assurance that it will be better, less expensive, or provide any better quality medical care. In fact, many independent (?) studies have indicated that the likelihood is that insurance will be more expensive for many, and provide lesser coverage for those fortunate enough to presently enjoy good medical insurance coverage. The costs, medical liability issues, unnecessary testing, expense of drugs, malpractice grants, etc. do NOT appear to have "made the cut" in either plan, but, of course, we do not really know what the final plan might look for. However, I have a hunch, that when all is said and done, that little voice in my head will hear the old lady chiming in, "Where's the Beef?"
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Enjoy the Home of the RICH IDEAS, + RICH BRODY'S TAKE, w/ Blogs about RE, negotiations, finance, etc., Leadership Planning, politics, etc. While there are many points of view, this blog is intended to "cut through the spin," and provide a unique, innovative and provocative insight into current issues. The intent of the blog is to be updated several times per week. Real estate info: http://PortWashingtonLongIslandRealEstate.com and the PLAN2LEAD website: http://plan2lead.net
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Shouldn't Politicians Eventually Become Statesman?
SHOULDN'T POLITICIANS EVENTUALLY BECOME STATESMAN?
Since our American political system has become one where politicians seem to run for office forever and spend obscene amounts of money on their campaigns, we shouldn't be surprised that once elected, our elected officials are so often dysfunctional. When a bunch of guys sitting around in an office or in a bar often seem to have a clearer idea of what needs to be done than our elected officials, one should realize that we have approached a political reality that is the equivalent of the "inmates running the asylum." When more time is spent discussing Tiger Woods and his alleged trysts than how to put our jobless back to work, there is something very wrong with our society!
Our elected officials put together patchwork proposals, filled with "pork," that are unnecessarily expensive, and do not adequately address the needs of the American public. Our elected officials tell us that they recognize the problem, and that is of the highest priority. Then they tell another group that their problem is the highest priority. And then, they don't adequately address either!
Let's look at the United States' pressing needs at the moment. Most observers would agree that the economy and the joblessness rates are the most disturbing! Yet, let's look at how our government has addressed these challenges. The much- maligned TARP (meaning TROUBLED ASSET RECOVERY PLAN) bailed out our major banks, because of the theory that these institutions were "too big to fail," and that the ramifications of bank failures would cause economic catastrophe. The government is now elated that the plan will cost $200 billion less than believed, because of early repayment by several banks. Yet, two banks who have not yet repaid the monies, Citi (owing $20 billion) and Wells Fargo (owing $25 billion) now are pleading with the government to be allowed to repay these amounts, and the government is telling them that they cannot repay it unless they raise substantial additional funds. Citi and Wells Fargo state that not repaying the TARP funds puts them at a competitive disadvantage against those that did, because of the additional restrictions associated with TARP. Remember that many non-banks reorganized to make themselves banks in order to be able to receive the TARP funds (predominantly investment houses, etc). Now, the government is discussing how to account for this $200 billion "windfall," reportedly discussing paying down the enormous national deficit/ debt, and using those monies for other purposes, such as creating jobs. However, the language of the TARP legislation specifically speaks of lending, so most viable job programs could not be funded with those funds. Adding to the farce and follies is the fact that TARP was supposedly created so that banks would free-up lending, which it has not done. Most banks have used those funds simply to enhance their own financial position!
Several months ago, our representatives were SO pleased with themselves for creating what they were referring to as a "Credit Cardholders Bill of Rights." In their infinite wisdom, they announced what the legislation would require, but that it would not take place for nine months (NINE MONTHS!). So, of course, most credit card companies (translation= banks) have raised interest rates, lowered credit lines, changed to variable rates, etc. And, of course, because of the crazy manner in which our credit scores (such as FICO, etc.) are calculated, having reduced credit lines changes the ratio of debt to available credit, thus lowering credit scores. The lending institutions (translation= banks) then use that new score as one of their justifications for declining lending. Yet, our legislators have bailed out the "too big to fail" on the backs of the individual citizens!
The President continues to showcase high profile job summits, and give speeches about how essential job creation is. Then, on the other hand (or should I say "face"), he says that the government needs private industry to help take the lead, because the government can't do it alone! Isn't this a bit of revisionist history, when we consider that same argument could have been used regarding huge government infusions into big businesses, war efforts, etc.
And, what about our war efforts. The candidate Obama, at least partially, ran as the "peace" candidate, against the Iraq surge, and stating he would not have voted to go in when the first vote was taken (it's great when you're a candidate and you were not in the Senate and therefore did not vote at that time, under those conditions). Yet, now, President Obama wants to commit additional billions, as well as 30,000 - 35,000 US troops to an effort that could be referred to as a "surge" in Afghanistan, while at the same time promising to limit the amount of time troops will remain, giving the public the indication that substantial troop reductions would begin in July 2011 (18 months). Then on the following Sunday morning programs, Secretary of Defense Gates and Secretary of State Clinton strongly indicated that the 18 month period would be when the first of the troops would be withdrawn, and US troops could be there substantially longer. Defenders of increased military action and "surges" point to the success in Iraq, yet in the last few days, there have been substantial deaths due to bombings, etc. Does anyone really believe that when we eventually leave Iraq, that it will be a stable, sustainable nation? What is really our goal? Does anyone really have a plan? What do we expect to achieve?
The candidate Obama ran for President with the campaign slogan, "CHANGE." During President Obama's first ten and a half months in office, he is using economic advisors who were at least partially responsible for this mess in the first place (where's the change?), the same Secretary of Defense, his campaign opponent as Secretary of State, etc. To this observer, he seems to still be campaigning. Granted there is a need for communicating, but there is an even greater needed for real action that works!
We cannot just throw money at a problem, nor simply blame others for how we got there. We need some common sense and straight talk. It took the US a while to get into this mess, and it won't be overnight getting out of it. But the time for rhetoric is over! Let's create jobs now! Putting people back to work will be the fastest and most permanent cure for our economy. Provide incentive for employers to rehire. Provide even greater incentives for employers in "future growth" industries (such as alternative energy, gas exploration, etc., technology, and manufacturing)! Create a situation where the US becomes not solely a consumer-driven economy, but that we once again manufacture items here! Give companies an incentive to manufacture here instead of abroad! That would be monies well spent that would come back to the government in the form of taxes, less unemployment benefits payouts, etc.
Create something, and stop making excuses.
When Mr. Obama ran for office with the campaign promise of change, little did most of us realize that what he meant was that change would be the only thing left in our pockets. Let's get America working again, reducing our deficits so that our children and their children don't have to keep paying for our excesses, and regain the United States' dominance in the world economy.
How strange that while our economy has suffered, the an average price of a gallon of gas has increased by 50% since this time last year. And that is with reduced consumption! It's time for the American public to wake up, and demand that our politicians, once they are elected, act as statesman, instead of just continuing to be ruled by politics. Does it really make any sense that Democrats of Republicans keep voting as a bloc, regardless of the issue? The late Senator Charles Goodell summed up the situation, "Politicians are like antelopes. When things get tough, they pain their behinds white and run with the crowd."
The US public must demand leadership NOW!
Since our American political system has become one where politicians seem to run for office forever and spend obscene amounts of money on their campaigns, we shouldn't be surprised that once elected, our elected officials are so often dysfunctional. When a bunch of guys sitting around in an office or in a bar often seem to have a clearer idea of what needs to be done than our elected officials, one should realize that we have approached a political reality that is the equivalent of the "inmates running the asylum." When more time is spent discussing Tiger Woods and his alleged trysts than how to put our jobless back to work, there is something very wrong with our society!
Our elected officials put together patchwork proposals, filled with "pork," that are unnecessarily expensive, and do not adequately address the needs of the American public. Our elected officials tell us that they recognize the problem, and that is of the highest priority. Then they tell another group that their problem is the highest priority. And then, they don't adequately address either!
Let's look at the United States' pressing needs at the moment. Most observers would agree that the economy and the joblessness rates are the most disturbing! Yet, let's look at how our government has addressed these challenges. The much- maligned TARP (meaning TROUBLED ASSET RECOVERY PLAN) bailed out our major banks, because of the theory that these institutions were "too big to fail," and that the ramifications of bank failures would cause economic catastrophe. The government is now elated that the plan will cost $200 billion less than believed, because of early repayment by several banks. Yet, two banks who have not yet repaid the monies, Citi (owing $20 billion) and Wells Fargo (owing $25 billion) now are pleading with the government to be allowed to repay these amounts, and the government is telling them that they cannot repay it unless they raise substantial additional funds. Citi and Wells Fargo state that not repaying the TARP funds puts them at a competitive disadvantage against those that did, because of the additional restrictions associated with TARP. Remember that many non-banks reorganized to make themselves banks in order to be able to receive the TARP funds (predominantly investment houses, etc). Now, the government is discussing how to account for this $200 billion "windfall," reportedly discussing paying down the enormous national deficit/ debt, and using those monies for other purposes, such as creating jobs. However, the language of the TARP legislation specifically speaks of lending, so most viable job programs could not be funded with those funds. Adding to the farce and follies is the fact that TARP was supposedly created so that banks would free-up lending, which it has not done. Most banks have used those funds simply to enhance their own financial position!
Several months ago, our representatives were SO pleased with themselves for creating what they were referring to as a "Credit Cardholders Bill of Rights." In their infinite wisdom, they announced what the legislation would require, but that it would not take place for nine months (NINE MONTHS!). So, of course, most credit card companies (translation= banks) have raised interest rates, lowered credit lines, changed to variable rates, etc. And, of course, because of the crazy manner in which our credit scores (such as FICO, etc.) are calculated, having reduced credit lines changes the ratio of debt to available credit, thus lowering credit scores. The lending institutions (translation= banks) then use that new score as one of their justifications for declining lending. Yet, our legislators have bailed out the "too big to fail" on the backs of the individual citizens!
The President continues to showcase high profile job summits, and give speeches about how essential job creation is. Then, on the other hand (or should I say "face"), he says that the government needs private industry to help take the lead, because the government can't do it alone! Isn't this a bit of revisionist history, when we consider that same argument could have been used regarding huge government infusions into big businesses, war efforts, etc.
And, what about our war efforts. The candidate Obama, at least partially, ran as the "peace" candidate, against the Iraq surge, and stating he would not have voted to go in when the first vote was taken (it's great when you're a candidate and you were not in the Senate and therefore did not vote at that time, under those conditions). Yet, now, President Obama wants to commit additional billions, as well as 30,000 - 35,000 US troops to an effort that could be referred to as a "surge" in Afghanistan, while at the same time promising to limit the amount of time troops will remain, giving the public the indication that substantial troop reductions would begin in July 2011 (18 months). Then on the following Sunday morning programs, Secretary of Defense Gates and Secretary of State Clinton strongly indicated that the 18 month period would be when the first of the troops would be withdrawn, and US troops could be there substantially longer. Defenders of increased military action and "surges" point to the success in Iraq, yet in the last few days, there have been substantial deaths due to bombings, etc. Does anyone really believe that when we eventually leave Iraq, that it will be a stable, sustainable nation? What is really our goal? Does anyone really have a plan? What do we expect to achieve?
The candidate Obama ran for President with the campaign slogan, "CHANGE." During President Obama's first ten and a half months in office, he is using economic advisors who were at least partially responsible for this mess in the first place (where's the change?), the same Secretary of Defense, his campaign opponent as Secretary of State, etc. To this observer, he seems to still be campaigning. Granted there is a need for communicating, but there is an even greater needed for real action that works!
We cannot just throw money at a problem, nor simply blame others for how we got there. We need some common sense and straight talk. It took the US a while to get into this mess, and it won't be overnight getting out of it. But the time for rhetoric is over! Let's create jobs now! Putting people back to work will be the fastest and most permanent cure for our economy. Provide incentive for employers to rehire. Provide even greater incentives for employers in "future growth" industries (such as alternative energy, gas exploration, etc., technology, and manufacturing)! Create a situation where the US becomes not solely a consumer-driven economy, but that we once again manufacture items here! Give companies an incentive to manufacture here instead of abroad! That would be monies well spent that would come back to the government in the form of taxes, less unemployment benefits payouts, etc.
Create something, and stop making excuses.
When Mr. Obama ran for office with the campaign promise of change, little did most of us realize that what he meant was that change would be the only thing left in our pockets. Let's get America working again, reducing our deficits so that our children and their children don't have to keep paying for our excesses, and regain the United States' dominance in the world economy.
How strange that while our economy has suffered, the an average price of a gallon of gas has increased by 50% since this time last year. And that is with reduced consumption! It's time for the American public to wake up, and demand that our politicians, once they are elected, act as statesman, instead of just continuing to be ruled by politics. Does it really make any sense that Democrats of Republicans keep voting as a bloc, regardless of the issue? The late Senator Charles Goodell summed up the situation, "Politicians are like antelopes. When things get tough, they pain their behinds white and run with the crowd."
The US public must demand leadership NOW!
Monday, December 7, 2009
HOW ECONOMIC DATA & THE HYPE CONFUSES!
HOW ECONOMIC DATA & THE HYPE CONFUSE
I am sure that many of you have heard that gold was a great investment, and that investors like gold as a hedge against bad economic news. Since gold is now experiencing its best year since its last peak in January 1980, it is a good time to review the reality. On December 3rd, gold reached a record high, exceeding $1,225 an ounce. A gold investor who purchased gold during the last peak at $850 an ounce, has seen a return of approximately 44 percent. To put that into perspective, if one reinvested dividends, the Standard & Poor 500 stock index multiplied approximately 22 times. Even Treasury vehicles rose more than ten times, and interest-bearing bank accounts (not including Certificate of Deposits) almost doubled! When one factors in inflation, gold investors are still VERY far away from breaking even on their investment! Am analysis of gold investing leads one ro realize that gold is NOT a good long-term investor, and that the security of owning something tangible for "peace of mind" can be very costly.
Similarly, the originally cost of the TARP bail-out has been recalculated because many banks have repaid the loans much earlier than forecast. The cost of the TARP bailout has therefore been recalculated downward by approximately $200 billion (over 10years). The Government has actually made money on many of the TARP loans repaid. Does anyone think they know why these companies are repaying early? Could it have anything to do with not wanting to have the government have the "leverage" over them?
Several months, the politicians and the media were celebrating what they referred to as landmark legislation regulating the credit card companies. However, the law that was passed would not take place for nine months after enacted. So what have the banks done? They've configure themselves to make significant moves ahead of the deadline, so they are in the most advantageous position possible. Many of the banks have raised their interest rates; many others have arbitrarily and across the board lowered credit limits. And to make the system even more ludicrous, the way credit scores are calculated, the banks lowering of credit limits causes many people's credit scores (FICO, etc.) to go down!
So, what did the banks do with the monies they received to bail them out? Wasn't the public led to believe that it was necessary to bail out the banks, so that credit would be available for purchases, mortgages, etc? Well, what most of the banks did was use the funds to make their own bottom line look better, while tightening credit more and more!
President Obama called a huge jobs summit, which appeared to accomplish less than a typical jobs fair! The President then made a speech that addressing jobs was a priority (then where does it go on the priority list with his other stated priorities?), but that it needed to be a combined government- private sector approach, because the government has to be mindful of the growing US deficit and its inherent problems, and that the government isn 't in a position to spend all the needed funds. Yet, if this is a priority, it must be treated as such! Since Mr. Obama took office, the U.S. deficit has grown from a ridiculously high $400 Billion, which he inherited, to over $1.4 Trillion today. We have been told that the Afghanistan surge will cost $30 billion (but that number is only the additional funds we are told will be spend over the next 18 months). Will anyone be surprised to see that number grow exponentially! On the Sunday morning shows, Secretary of Defense Gates and Secretary of State Clinton kept saying that basically there would be a slight first pull-out of some troops, beginning in July 2011! Haven't we heard before that there was "light at the end of the tunnel," as LBJ used to say?
Beware the jobless/ unemployment figures! I am always wary when the government produces "better than expected" figures, right before the President's big speech tomorrow night on jobs. Factoring in those that are counted, those that are working part-time instead of full-time, those that have given up looking, and those who have, out of desperation taken significantly lower paying positions, the joblessness and employment/ unemployment issues should the U.S.' number 1 priority! The U.S. must seriously address this issue for our economy to fully recover.
Are things a little better? Yes, I don't think we are getting worse, and I do believe there will be improvement. It is rumored that the Federal Reserve is already discussing when (not if) they will begin to raise interest rates. So, the one thing that any consumer who is in a position to - - who can afford to - - should do, is seriously consider purchasing real estate now! Mortgage rates are historically low, home prices are low, and qualified individuals with reasonable credit who can put 20% down, can get a mortgage on a properly priced home! Those considering it, but waiting are most likely going to be very disappointed when sometime next year, mortgage rates go up, housing prices begin to rise, and the Housing Credit expires! This may be the best real estate buying opportunity in some time!
Nobody can foresee the future, and nobody can pinpoint the precise low point of a market. Those than panicked and sold off stocks at their low, and did not step in when the Dow was about 8400 because they were waiting for the low, missed an opportunity to take some advantage. The ideal stock-buying strategy over time has always been dollar-cost averaging. That strategy has worked in up markets, down markets, and do-nothing stock markets. It takes dicipline, but averages out purchase prices so that the market swings are not catastrophes!
Patients, being wary of the hype, and understanding that all markets are cyclical is the best long-term strategy. Nobody ever makes a profit unless they sell, so one should be much more interested in a long-term, successful approach.
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER: @rgbrody (www.twitter.com/rgbrody)
READ MY BLOGS: http://tinyurl.com/rgbstake
MY CONSULTING WEBSITE: http://tinyurl.com/rgbcons
MY Real Estate Website: http://tinyurl.com/rgb242
I am sure that many of you have heard that gold was a great investment, and that investors like gold as a hedge against bad economic news. Since gold is now experiencing its best year since its last peak in January 1980, it is a good time to review the reality. On December 3rd, gold reached a record high, exceeding $1,225 an ounce. A gold investor who purchased gold during the last peak at $850 an ounce, has seen a return of approximately 44 percent. To put that into perspective, if one reinvested dividends, the Standard & Poor 500 stock index multiplied approximately 22 times. Even Treasury vehicles rose more than ten times, and interest-bearing bank accounts (not including Certificate of Deposits) almost doubled! When one factors in inflation, gold investors are still VERY far away from breaking even on their investment! Am analysis of gold investing leads one ro realize that gold is NOT a good long-term investor, and that the security of owning something tangible for "peace of mind" can be very costly.
Similarly, the originally cost of the TARP bail-out has been recalculated because many banks have repaid the loans much earlier than forecast. The cost of the TARP bailout has therefore been recalculated downward by approximately $200 billion (over 10years). The Government has actually made money on many of the TARP loans repaid. Does anyone think they know why these companies are repaying early? Could it have anything to do with not wanting to have the government have the "leverage" over them?
Several months, the politicians and the media were celebrating what they referred to as landmark legislation regulating the credit card companies. However, the law that was passed would not take place for nine months after enacted. So what have the banks done? They've configure themselves to make significant moves ahead of the deadline, so they are in the most advantageous position possible. Many of the banks have raised their interest rates; many others have arbitrarily and across the board lowered credit limits. And to make the system even more ludicrous, the way credit scores are calculated, the banks lowering of credit limits causes many people's credit scores (FICO, etc.) to go down!
So, what did the banks do with the monies they received to bail them out? Wasn't the public led to believe that it was necessary to bail out the banks, so that credit would be available for purchases, mortgages, etc? Well, what most of the banks did was use the funds to make their own bottom line look better, while tightening credit more and more!
President Obama called a huge jobs summit, which appeared to accomplish less than a typical jobs fair! The President then made a speech that addressing jobs was a priority (then where does it go on the priority list with his other stated priorities?), but that it needed to be a combined government- private sector approach, because the government has to be mindful of the growing US deficit and its inherent problems, and that the government isn 't in a position to spend all the needed funds. Yet, if this is a priority, it must be treated as such! Since Mr. Obama took office, the U.S. deficit has grown from a ridiculously high $400 Billion, which he inherited, to over $1.4 Trillion today. We have been told that the Afghanistan surge will cost $30 billion (but that number is only the additional funds we are told will be spend over the next 18 months). Will anyone be surprised to see that number grow exponentially! On the Sunday morning shows, Secretary of Defense Gates and Secretary of State Clinton kept saying that basically there would be a slight first pull-out of some troops, beginning in July 2011! Haven't we heard before that there was "light at the end of the tunnel," as LBJ used to say?
Beware the jobless/ unemployment figures! I am always wary when the government produces "better than expected" figures, right before the President's big speech tomorrow night on jobs. Factoring in those that are counted, those that are working part-time instead of full-time, those that have given up looking, and those who have, out of desperation taken significantly lower paying positions, the joblessness and employment/ unemployment issues should the U.S.' number 1 priority! The U.S. must seriously address this issue for our economy to fully recover.
Are things a little better? Yes, I don't think we are getting worse, and I do believe there will be improvement. It is rumored that the Federal Reserve is already discussing when (not if) they will begin to raise interest rates. So, the one thing that any consumer who is in a position to - - who can afford to - - should do, is seriously consider purchasing real estate now! Mortgage rates are historically low, home prices are low, and qualified individuals with reasonable credit who can put 20% down, can get a mortgage on a properly priced home! Those considering it, but waiting are most likely going to be very disappointed when sometime next year, mortgage rates go up, housing prices begin to rise, and the Housing Credit expires! This may be the best real estate buying opportunity in some time!
Nobody can foresee the future, and nobody can pinpoint the precise low point of a market. Those than panicked and sold off stocks at their low, and did not step in when the Dow was about 8400 because they were waiting for the low, missed an opportunity to take some advantage. The ideal stock-buying strategy over time has always been dollar-cost averaging. That strategy has worked in up markets, down markets, and do-nothing stock markets. It takes dicipline, but averages out purchase prices so that the market swings are not catastrophes!
Patients, being wary of the hype, and understanding that all markets are cyclical is the best long-term strategy. Nobody ever makes a profit unless they sell, so one should be much more interested in a long-term, successful approach.
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER: @rgbrody (www.twitter.com/rgbrody)
READ MY BLOGS: http://tinyurl.com/rgbstake
MY CONSULTING WEBSITE: http://tinyurl.com/rgbcons
MY Real Estate Website: http://tinyurl.com/rgb242
Thursday, December 3, 2009
30 Yr Mortgage Rates hit all-time low & other housing info
30 Yr Mortgage Rates hit all-time low & other housing info
Freddie Mac stated today that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage average hit a new low. The 30-year average declined to 4.71% (with an average 0.7 point) for the week ending Dec. 3 from 4.78% last week. This new 30-year average is the lowest since Freddie Mac began its weekly survey in 1971. Last year, the average was 5.53%. Remember that this is the average 30- year rate, which means that many lending institutions are offering even low rates. Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac's chief economist stated, "Low mortgage rates and the cumulative decline in house prices have contributed to an extremely affordable housing market and helped spur home sales this year . . . For instance, total new and existing home sales in October were 36% higher than their January low on a seasonally adjusted, annualized rate, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Association of Realtors."
So, there is improving news in the housing/ real estate markets. The combination of the Federal housing tax credit, low mortgage rates, lower home prices, and some improvement in consumer belief that the worst of the recession is over, has created this improvement. As we enter the Holiday season, real estate "shopping" historically cools off until after the holiday season. However, this kind of news is hopefully a fore-teller of a better 2010 housing market.
Another promising indication is that the President is finally convening a Jobs-related summit for tomorrow, and hopefully, that will addressed the major weakness in both the housing market as well as the overall economy. Let's hope that our political leaders have finally understood that joblessness is what's keeping our economy from really growing, and they will address some real solutions to that situation. Amongst my suggestions: (1) Incentives for hiring in "progressive" industries, such as alternative energy, technology, etc-- that will NOT ONLY put people back to work, but also support industries will be necessary for the US to reach the next level. As an Ecobroker, I believe that incentives in "green-related" building and renovations will boost the economy, help the joblessness situation, and make houses more sustainable for now and the future; (2) Make the joblessness challenge the #1 Economic Priority; (3) Create incentives so that progressive industries benefit by hiring people, than by the cost-savings side-effects of layoffs. Let's put America back to work again!
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER- @rgbrody (www.twitter.com/rgbrody)
MY Real Estate Website: http://tinyurl.com/rgb242
MY Consulting Website: http://tinyurl.com/rgbcons
MY Real Estate Blog: http://tinyurl.com/rgbreb
MY General Blog: http://tinyurl.com/rgbstake
Freddie Mac stated today that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage average hit a new low. The 30-year average declined to 4.71% (with an average 0.7 point) for the week ending Dec. 3 from 4.78% last week. This new 30-year average is the lowest since Freddie Mac began its weekly survey in 1971. Last year, the average was 5.53%. Remember that this is the average 30- year rate, which means that many lending institutions are offering even low rates. Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac's chief economist stated, "Low mortgage rates and the cumulative decline in house prices have contributed to an extremely affordable housing market and helped spur home sales this year . . . For instance, total new and existing home sales in October were 36% higher than their January low on a seasonally adjusted, annualized rate, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Association of Realtors."
So, there is improving news in the housing/ real estate markets. The combination of the Federal housing tax credit, low mortgage rates, lower home prices, and some improvement in consumer belief that the worst of the recession is over, has created this improvement. As we enter the Holiday season, real estate "shopping" historically cools off until after the holiday season. However, this kind of news is hopefully a fore-teller of a better 2010 housing market.
Another promising indication is that the President is finally convening a Jobs-related summit for tomorrow, and hopefully, that will addressed the major weakness in both the housing market as well as the overall economy. Let's hope that our political leaders have finally understood that joblessness is what's keeping our economy from really growing, and they will address some real solutions to that situation. Amongst my suggestions: (1) Incentives for hiring in "progressive" industries, such as alternative energy, technology, etc-- that will NOT ONLY put people back to work, but also support industries will be necessary for the US to reach the next level. As an Ecobroker, I believe that incentives in "green-related" building and renovations will boost the economy, help the joblessness situation, and make houses more sustainable for now and the future; (2) Make the joblessness challenge the #1 Economic Priority; (3) Create incentives so that progressive industries benefit by hiring people, than by the cost-savings side-effects of layoffs. Let's put America back to work again!
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER- @rgbrody (www.twitter.com/rgbrody)
MY Real Estate Website: http://tinyurl.com/rgb242
MY Consulting Website: http://tinyurl.com/rgbcons
MY Real Estate Blog: http://tinyurl.com/rgbreb
MY General Blog: http://tinyurl.com/rgbstake
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
THE US MEDIA & AMERICAN PRIORITIES
If one's first contact with the US media took place sometime between 8PM Eastern Time last night, and this morning's local daily newspapers, the most likely reaction would be "Huh?" President Obama decided to have a primetime speech given at West Point broadcast to the entire country. In this speech, the President intended to clearly explain his policy toward Afghanistan, and explain simultaneously sending an additional 30,000- 35,000 US troops into the war zone, while also stating his intent to begin withdrawing those troops in 18 months. It appeared that this may have been the first time that this President got both the left and the right to agree, albeit for different reasons - - - many on the right upset because he announced a timetable and was not in this to win; while many on the left upset that this President, who ran, at least partially, as a "peace" candidate was sending more US troops in harms way, when they feel he should be withdrawing from Afghanistan. The most revealing thing about the post- speech reaction was that almost no one enthusiastically supported this plan.
In what was perhaps even more revealing about the US media, however, was the way the NY newspapers handled the front page of this morning's editions. The NY Post had approximately 20% of the front page headlined about the President's speech, but chose to dedicate approximately 80% of the front page to the Tiger Wood's trysts and women. Newsday split their front page differently; dedicating about 2/3 to the Nassau County Supervisor's outcome (one month after the election), and 1/6 each to the Obama story and to Tiger Wood's getting a traffic fine (referring readers to the Sports section). The New York Times dedicated the "above the fold" half of the front page to the President's speech, and to an analysis of Afghanistan options.
Once again, America has become distracted. Once again, a President has come before us and announced his plan to "temporarily" expand our war effort. Once again, the media has predominantly only given this a cursory review, accepting the inevitable. The most revealing thing last night was President Obama conceding that some are comparing this to Vietnam, but then giving his "spin" as to why it is different - - - actually having the audacity to use George Bush's explanation of how the US is broadly supported in this war, supposedly unlike Vietnam; and that the American public understands the dangers in the post 911 world. It is revealing that the President all of a sudden started sounding like a cross between his predecessor and Rudy Giuliani (who is infamous for referring to 911 in every fourth word!). Most revealing is that while some of the media questioned strategic points in the President's plan, there were very few outraged on this Vietnam analogy. What is being missed is the most important similarities between Vietnam and Afghanistan - - - both are un-winable situations; both are very costly in terms of both money and human loss; and both are concerned with a complicated foreign situation at a time when our focus should be on strengthening America.
The fact that our economy shed an additional 169,000 jobs in November, and that our joblessness rate is still over 10% should be attracting most of our attention. The huge federal deficits and lack of economic focus should be what most concerns us! The fact that what the US needs is "domestic nation-building," NOT building other nations, is what the priority effort should be! Emphasize alternative energies so that our dependence on foreign resources is reduced, and more US funds remain in the US! Subsidize job creation instead of supporting companies that use the subsidies simply to make profits for themselves! Emphasize production and manufacturing in the US, especially in industries that our essential to our future. Bailout the American citizens that are victims of this economy!
Nassau County finally announced that all (or most) of the votes have been counted and re-counted and elected a new County Executive. The ousted executive Tom Suozzi appeared popular, and was heavily favored to win re-election. Yet the combination of anger and frustration, voters fed up with high taxes combined with frustration with politics caused a significantly lighter turnout amongst previous Suozzi supporters and energized his opposition. Americans are getting fed up, BUT are not doing anything about!
The US was founded on the right to protest any inequities in the system - - - in the late 1960's and early 1970's enough people loudly protested the war in Vietnam that eventually the US got out of that location, after a huge number of deaths and injuries! And it was NOT the "Peace with Honor" that Richard Nixon promised in his campaign! It's time for us all to unite for what's best for America and change the nation's priorities, and support America - - - in the famous words from the movie "Network" "I'm mad as hell and I'm NOT going to take it anymore."
Let's get America working again!
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER- @rgbrody (www.twitter.com/rgbrody)
THIS BLOG: http://tinyurl.com/rgbstake
CONSULTING WEBSITE: http://tinyurl.com/rgbcons
RE Website: http://tinyurl.com/pwlire
In what was perhaps even more revealing about the US media, however, was the way the NY newspapers handled the front page of this morning's editions. The NY Post had approximately 20% of the front page headlined about the President's speech, but chose to dedicate approximately 80% of the front page to the Tiger Wood's trysts and women. Newsday split their front page differently; dedicating about 2/3 to the Nassau County Supervisor's outcome (one month after the election), and 1/6 each to the Obama story and to Tiger Wood's getting a traffic fine (referring readers to the Sports section). The New York Times dedicated the "above the fold" half of the front page to the President's speech, and to an analysis of Afghanistan options.
Once again, America has become distracted. Once again, a President has come before us and announced his plan to "temporarily" expand our war effort. Once again, the media has predominantly only given this a cursory review, accepting the inevitable. The most revealing thing last night was President Obama conceding that some are comparing this to Vietnam, but then giving his "spin" as to why it is different - - - actually having the audacity to use George Bush's explanation of how the US is broadly supported in this war, supposedly unlike Vietnam; and that the American public understands the dangers in the post 911 world. It is revealing that the President all of a sudden started sounding like a cross between his predecessor and Rudy Giuliani (who is infamous for referring to 911 in every fourth word!). Most revealing is that while some of the media questioned strategic points in the President's plan, there were very few outraged on this Vietnam analogy. What is being missed is the most important similarities between Vietnam and Afghanistan - - - both are un-winable situations; both are very costly in terms of both money and human loss; and both are concerned with a complicated foreign situation at a time when our focus should be on strengthening America.
The fact that our economy shed an additional 169,000 jobs in November, and that our joblessness rate is still over 10% should be attracting most of our attention. The huge federal deficits and lack of economic focus should be what most concerns us! The fact that what the US needs is "domestic nation-building," NOT building other nations, is what the priority effort should be! Emphasize alternative energies so that our dependence on foreign resources is reduced, and more US funds remain in the US! Subsidize job creation instead of supporting companies that use the subsidies simply to make profits for themselves! Emphasize production and manufacturing in the US, especially in industries that our essential to our future. Bailout the American citizens that are victims of this economy!
Nassau County finally announced that all (or most) of the votes have been counted and re-counted and elected a new County Executive. The ousted executive Tom Suozzi appeared popular, and was heavily favored to win re-election. Yet the combination of anger and frustration, voters fed up with high taxes combined with frustration with politics caused a significantly lighter turnout amongst previous Suozzi supporters and energized his opposition. Americans are getting fed up, BUT are not doing anything about!
The US was founded on the right to protest any inequities in the system - - - in the late 1960's and early 1970's enough people loudly protested the war in Vietnam that eventually the US got out of that location, after a huge number of deaths and injuries! And it was NOT the "Peace with Honor" that Richard Nixon promised in his campaign! It's time for us all to unite for what's best for America and change the nation's priorities, and support America - - - in the famous words from the movie "Network" "I'm mad as hell and I'm NOT going to take it anymore."
Let's get America working again!
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER- @rgbrody (www.twitter.com/rgbrody)
THIS BLOG: http://tinyurl.com/rgbstake
CONSULTING WEBSITE: http://tinyurl.com/rgbcons
RE Website: http://tinyurl.com/pwlire
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
US Focus- Foreign Policy, White House Imposters & Tiger Woods
It seems that in America we are still not learning lessons from our past! This evening, President Obama is supposed to formally announce, at West Point, that there is a new policy for Afghanistan. We can expect a well-worded defense of a policy where we send an additional 30,000 to 35,000 additional troops to Afghanistan, but that the President announces that this is part of an overall "exit policy," (he probably won't call it that!) restricted for a limited period/ not endless (but don't expect an actual timetable), and that the additional troops are needed to assure that "we accomplished our mission," and that US troops will be training the Afghanistan military to take over that country's security. And, yes, this is from a man who a little over a year ago won the Presidency, at least partly because he stated that his opponents in the primaries and the election supported our war in Iraq (and Afghanistan), and he did not! Of course, he was NOT a Senator when that vote was taken, so it was easy to use some revisionist history! Certainly, the President will give another excellent speech. However, it seems that Mr.Obama has never stopped campaigning, even after he was elected! In a case of reality copying fiction, Robert Redford, in the movie, "The Candidate," famously asked, "What do I do now?" after the fictional inexperienced but handsome Senator was elected. It must be so very disappointing and disillusioning to the candidate Obama's many impassioned supporters who believed that Mr. Obama would change the country for the better. Unfortunately, for many, the only change has been the little bit of change remaining in their pockets as a result of these record deficits, recession, and high joblessness rates!
Think back to the Johnson, "There is light at the end of the tunnel," Vietnam-era declarations, and the reasoning that kept so many Americans there for so many years, at such a high cost both in human terms as well as financially, only to get the same or even worse results than we probably could have had leaving years sooner. If we really try to defend sending MORE troops into Afghanistan, when our justification for having over 60,000 troops there now (before the increase)is questionable, then I maintain it is time for the American people to once again consider peaceful anti-war protests, so that no more American lives are lost in a questionable war! Shame on President Obama, who stated opposition to President Bush's troop increases (he called them surges as you might recall). You can be fairly sure that the President's speech this evening will NOT use the word surge. How would you feel if it was your loved one sent in harms way, and rumor has it being deployed during the Holiday season! How interesting and predictable is it that President Obama has selected West Point as the location for this "announcement."
The press has given more publicity to the White House imposters who "crashed" a White House dinner party. But how much confidence should it give Americans if this could be done this easily at the White House, many do NOT feel comfortable permitting our government to oversee very much! There is MORE security at airport security sites! There is plenty of blame to go around for this error, which fortunately ended without disaster. But for Congress to be giving this less attention than they previously gave to football helmets says quite a bit about the problems in our political system, and governance. Watch carefully as the Secret Service blames the White House staff, who will blame the caterers, who will blame the event planners, etc. They are ALL to fault!!!
Yet, the media has spent more time and effort about Tiger Wood's minor car crash, and personal life, than about other issues. Tiger's situation has been the lead stories on radio, television, magazines, newspapers, etc. Tiger Wood's damaged his Cadillac SUV, and perhaps his image. That truly should NOT impact anyone other than he and his family!
I hope that we Americans wake up to the situation in Afghanistan before we are mired in another foreign war that does nothing constructive, but injures, kills, and damages lives, while utilizing even more US dollars from an economy with already a 1.4 trillion dollar deficit! Revisionists on the right will say that it is undemocratic and unpatriotic to oppose our war efforts, as they blame others for our "failure" (yes, I said failure) in Vietnam! The US again needs to become a leader, but NOT by fighting wars, but by leading the world out of the recession and high unemployment! Isn't it about time that we consider ramifications and inevitable outcomes of our actions, and address the real priorities (economic issues)?
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER: @rgbrody (www.twitter.com/rgbrody)
THE RGB's TAKE BLOG can be followed at: http://tinyurl.com/rgbstake
WEBSITES: Real Estate (http://tinyurl.com/pwlire)
Consulting (http://tinyurl.com/rgbcons)
Think back to the Johnson, "There is light at the end of the tunnel," Vietnam-era declarations, and the reasoning that kept so many Americans there for so many years, at such a high cost both in human terms as well as financially, only to get the same or even worse results than we probably could have had leaving years sooner. If we really try to defend sending MORE troops into Afghanistan, when our justification for having over 60,000 troops there now (before the increase)is questionable, then I maintain it is time for the American people to once again consider peaceful anti-war protests, so that no more American lives are lost in a questionable war! Shame on President Obama, who stated opposition to President Bush's troop increases (he called them surges as you might recall). You can be fairly sure that the President's speech this evening will NOT use the word surge. How would you feel if it was your loved one sent in harms way, and rumor has it being deployed during the Holiday season! How interesting and predictable is it that President Obama has selected West Point as the location for this "announcement."
The press has given more publicity to the White House imposters who "crashed" a White House dinner party. But how much confidence should it give Americans if this could be done this easily at the White House, many do NOT feel comfortable permitting our government to oversee very much! There is MORE security at airport security sites! There is plenty of blame to go around for this error, which fortunately ended without disaster. But for Congress to be giving this less attention than they previously gave to football helmets says quite a bit about the problems in our political system, and governance. Watch carefully as the Secret Service blames the White House staff, who will blame the caterers, who will blame the event planners, etc. They are ALL to fault!!!
Yet, the media has spent more time and effort about Tiger Wood's minor car crash, and personal life, than about other issues. Tiger's situation has been the lead stories on radio, television, magazines, newspapers, etc. Tiger Wood's damaged his Cadillac SUV, and perhaps his image. That truly should NOT impact anyone other than he and his family!
I hope that we Americans wake up to the situation in Afghanistan before we are mired in another foreign war that does nothing constructive, but injures, kills, and damages lives, while utilizing even more US dollars from an economy with already a 1.4 trillion dollar deficit! Revisionists on the right will say that it is undemocratic and unpatriotic to oppose our war efforts, as they blame others for our "failure" (yes, I said failure) in Vietnam! The US again needs to become a leader, but NOT by fighting wars, but by leading the world out of the recession and high unemployment! Isn't it about time that we consider ramifications and inevitable outcomes of our actions, and address the real priorities (economic issues)?
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER: @rgbrody (www.twitter.com/rgbrody)
THE RGB's TAKE BLOG can be followed at: http://tinyurl.com/rgbstake
WEBSITES: Real Estate (http://tinyurl.com/pwlire)
Consulting (http://tinyurl.com/rgbcons)
Monday, November 30, 2009
BLACK FRIDAY, CYBER-MONDAY: Good news?
The preliminary figures have been released regarding Black Friday, and depending on how you wish to view it, the numbers are either bad news, so-so news, or good news. Apparently more Americans purchased on Black Friday, but their average spending was down about 5-10% for the day, and the total retail sales were either flat, or slightly lower. Since today is so-called Cyber-Monday, we do not know yet what these numbers will show, but more retailers are offering Cyber-Monday sales than ever before!
So, what does that mean? Well, the good news is, that despite the ongoing recession, despite the high joblessness rate, despite the credit tightening (many of the larger banks have tightened, eliminated, reduced credit lines, and increased credit card interest rates charged, while changing their installment payment features, thus requiring higher minimum payments), despite the fact that merchants are being quite conservative about inventory-on-hand, more Americans are still buying gifts, and the total spent has not been reduced significantly. Also, many retailers began their promotions early or are stretching them out over a longer period of time, which makes the Black Friday numbers even more positive! Granted last year's holiday season was not a robust one for retailers, but considering the cost-saving measures many companies have implemented, I feel the overall indicators are positive ones.
I am guessing that the Cyber-Monday results will either parallel the stores, or be slightly better than the store results. These numbers might be slightly skewed also because of many sites stretching this sale period out over a longer period of time. I am of the belief that there will be a higher than usual number of last-minute shoppers this holiday season, but that retailers will have to be creative as well as use discounting to attract more shoppers. I also feel that consumers will still purchase for the holidays, but that the average spending per shopper will be somewhat lower than in the past.
Since many manufacturers are suffering like retailers and consumers, many manufacturers are offering discounts and/ or incentives to retailers at a much greater rate this season than in the past. That is also a factor in the lower consumer purchasing averages.
Having gone to a few stores, malls, and warehouse clubs both on Black Friday as well as on Saturday, it is obvious that this season is being kinder to some stores than others, and to some malls than others. On Black Friday, WalMart was packed for the Early Bird sales, butr much quieter the rest of the day. The store Friday afternoon looked like it must have been "packed and ransacked" in the morning, but was simply messy and not fully re-stocked on Friday afternoon. The warehouse clubs seemed to be doing business as usual on Friday! On Saturday, I went to two different malls, and while one mall seemed very quiet, the other was very busy. Some stores were obviously much busier than others. Yet, for example, the Apple Store at one mall seemed relatively quiet, while at the other mall was busy.
We need to start adopting the "half-full" instead of "half-empty" philosophy, or this recession will stretch out and linger longer than it would on its own. All too often, too many of the so-called "experts" analyze each piece of data independently, without trying to understand some of the many causes. Daily discussions of the prices of gold, oil, and the stock indexes. are as misguided as people looking for "quick kills" in purchasing stocks rather than long-term outlooks. Historically, investors who use "dollar-cost averaging" have out-performed most others, because they do not fall victim to normal and abnormal market swings. We all need to "sit back and chill out" and look at things through a broader window, and figure out the best long-term strategies.
Let's remember that when George Bush became President he inherited a budget surplus. By the time he left office eight years later, instead of a surplus there was a $400 Billion plus deficit. A little more than ten months after President Obama took office, the US deficit now exceeds $1.4 Trillion. We need to understand that deficit financing has long-term impacts and ramifications, and the US cannot simply keep spending without a plan for repaying it. That is why our dollar is so weak, even though the recession is a world-wide challenge, not just an American one.
Weak housimg markets, high foreclosure rates, high joblessness rates, etc., cannot and are not balanced out solely by spending and low interest rates. America must reconfigure our economy to make it stronger and more productive! We need to get people back to work, and keep them working. That should be the major thrust of our government's activities now-- on the Federal, State and Local Levels. Demand that from your government leaders!
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER: @rgbrody (www.twitter.com/rgbrody)
FOLLOW MY BLOG AT: http://tinyurl.com/rgbstake
MY WEBSITES: Real Estate: http://tinyurl.com/pwlire
Consulting: http://tinyurl.com/rgbcons
So, what does that mean? Well, the good news is, that despite the ongoing recession, despite the high joblessness rate, despite the credit tightening (many of the larger banks have tightened, eliminated, reduced credit lines, and increased credit card interest rates charged, while changing their installment payment features, thus requiring higher minimum payments), despite the fact that merchants are being quite conservative about inventory-on-hand, more Americans are still buying gifts, and the total spent has not been reduced significantly. Also, many retailers began their promotions early or are stretching them out over a longer period of time, which makes the Black Friday numbers even more positive! Granted last year's holiday season was not a robust one for retailers, but considering the cost-saving measures many companies have implemented, I feel the overall indicators are positive ones.
I am guessing that the Cyber-Monday results will either parallel the stores, or be slightly better than the store results. These numbers might be slightly skewed also because of many sites stretching this sale period out over a longer period of time. I am of the belief that there will be a higher than usual number of last-minute shoppers this holiday season, but that retailers will have to be creative as well as use discounting to attract more shoppers. I also feel that consumers will still purchase for the holidays, but that the average spending per shopper will be somewhat lower than in the past.
Since many manufacturers are suffering like retailers and consumers, many manufacturers are offering discounts and/ or incentives to retailers at a much greater rate this season than in the past. That is also a factor in the lower consumer purchasing averages.
Having gone to a few stores, malls, and warehouse clubs both on Black Friday as well as on Saturday, it is obvious that this season is being kinder to some stores than others, and to some malls than others. On Black Friday, WalMart was packed for the Early Bird sales, butr much quieter the rest of the day. The store Friday afternoon looked like it must have been "packed and ransacked" in the morning, but was simply messy and not fully re-stocked on Friday afternoon. The warehouse clubs seemed to be doing business as usual on Friday! On Saturday, I went to two different malls, and while one mall seemed very quiet, the other was very busy. Some stores were obviously much busier than others. Yet, for example, the Apple Store at one mall seemed relatively quiet, while at the other mall was busy.
We need to start adopting the "half-full" instead of "half-empty" philosophy, or this recession will stretch out and linger longer than it would on its own. All too often, too many of the so-called "experts" analyze each piece of data independently, without trying to understand some of the many causes. Daily discussions of the prices of gold, oil, and the stock indexes. are as misguided as people looking for "quick kills" in purchasing stocks rather than long-term outlooks. Historically, investors who use "dollar-cost averaging" have out-performed most others, because they do not fall victim to normal and abnormal market swings. We all need to "sit back and chill out" and look at things through a broader window, and figure out the best long-term strategies.
Let's remember that when George Bush became President he inherited a budget surplus. By the time he left office eight years later, instead of a surplus there was a $400 Billion plus deficit. A little more than ten months after President Obama took office, the US deficit now exceeds $1.4 Trillion. We need to understand that deficit financing has long-term impacts and ramifications, and the US cannot simply keep spending without a plan for repaying it. That is why our dollar is so weak, even though the recession is a world-wide challenge, not just an American one.
Weak housimg markets, high foreclosure rates, high joblessness rates, etc., cannot and are not balanced out solely by spending and low interest rates. America must reconfigure our economy to make it stronger and more productive! We need to get people back to work, and keep them working. That should be the major thrust of our government's activities now-- on the Federal, State and Local Levels. Demand that from your government leaders!
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER: @rgbrody (www.twitter.com/rgbrody)
FOLLOW MY BLOG AT: http://tinyurl.com/rgbstake
MY WEBSITES: Real Estate: http://tinyurl.com/pwlire
Consulting: http://tinyurl.com/rgbcons
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