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Dear Friends,

Last Monday my thoughts were on cooking a wonderful meal for dinner as I wanted to be involved in an activity which I consider to be an energetic 'divertissement' from the daily stresses of the workplace.

As a single man, I cook for myself on most occasions. There are rare times that I do cook for others but I always remember those occasions fondly. I must say that unabashedly, I consider myself a great cook! Even though I might scare my friends away by adding garlic, onions, paprika, pepper and creole seasonings to many of my dinner preparations, the aroma throughout the kitchen and my home is truly the handiwork of a Master Chef, if I say so myself! By all accounts the flavor of my creations, whether its 'arroz con pollo', 'ropa vieja', 'chile con carne', 'jambalaya', 'empanadas' or 'paella', are all inspiring mouth watering examples of succulence unbeknownst and reserved for a select few! Most importantly, I am truly content to have the recipes and the abilities in transferring the effects of Spanish and Cuban cuisine as a passionate offering for others. My intense desire for cooking today, is a result of my parents love and devotion for a meal to be remembered and heartily enjoyed. My mother's cooking in particular, will always be remembered by our family as truly Heaven on Earth!

If you've ever met me, you would know that I love to eat good quality meals and I have a penchant for dining at fancy restaurants throughout Los Angeles. I am a robust and portly fellow and inappropriately self-indulgent in culinary matters. I do have shortcomings as I seek 'comfort food' to assuage the vitriol and the stressful excesses at work. There are times I have dinner late in the evening which is universally not recommended for those with waistlines such as mine. My waistline has become a tribute to my indulgence, inasmuch as discovering and satisfying a vigorous pursuit for a palate worthy to be avidly consumed!

 In Pursuit Of A Good Meal

Here's a photograph of Yours Truly in front of Tapawingo Restaurant during the Fall of 2007. Tapawingo is located in Ellsworth, Michigan. When I dined with my friends at Tapawingo, the food preparation was truly exquisite and was an adventure unmatched even to this day! Unfortunately, due to the economy, the restaurant closed their doors last year. You can still check their website: http://www.tapawingo.net/. I'm fortunate however, to have wonderful memories of my visit during a delightful Fall day in the most beautiful area of Northwest Michigan.

Julia Child Lives Again!

Yesterday I went to see the film 'Julie & Julia'. This movie is about the early years in which Julia Child begins her sincere devotion to French cooking resulting in the publication of her superb book, 'Mastering The Art Of French Cooking' in 1961. Concurrently, the viewer meets Julie in 2002, a young woman eager to instill meaning in her life by immersing herself in preparing all of the voluminous recipes written in Julia's book via a daily blog within a year's time.

I must say Meryl Streep, Amy Adams and the entire supporting cast were fun to watch and I thoroughly enjoyed this film immensely! Meryl Streep is one of my favorite actresses and her portrayal of Julia Child was invigorating! Her uncanny performance was a thrilling revelation, so much so, you would have sworn Julia was playing the role in the film herself! 

Cooked Books?

In other serious matters however, we turn to the latest July unemployment figures. On Friday the government reported there was a slight drop of 1% in nationwide unemployment from 9.5% to 9.4%. The Department Of Labor asks participating households basic questions to formulate the statistics Americans come to know every month about the number of workers in the population.

The Labor Department will ask if you have a job. If you are looking for a job and do not have one, you are considered to be unemployed. We also need to recognize the figures provided do not include persons that have decided to end their quest for employment by dropping out all together. These persons are no longer mentioned in the Labor Department unemployment figures. Essentially, a small drop of 0.1% can be considered somewhat encouraging. However we need to be cautious in our desires that good times are just around the corner as demonstrated by Wall Street in its advances on the Dow this past Friday. While this is a hopeful sign, we need to place this in perspective.

In my attempt to formulate a hypothesis in which a dominant and sustained turnaround in the US economy is forthcoming, I've come across opinions within the population stating the Federal government has 'cooked the books' to show a decrease in unemployment. I was taken aback when I read these assertions as I have always been led to believe these figures are 'independent' and could not be tampered with. I still place my trust in the integrity of the unemployment reports, even though I have serious misgivings in the current direction of legislation and programs devised by this Administration and Congress. While many Americans are discussing Health Reform and other bills offered for debate in Townhalls across the country, I tend to believe the figures released on Friday were true and correct. I certainly have no desire to question the integrity of the Labor Department in regards to the veracity of the unemployment figures. A manipulation of such information, if at all conceivable, would be an egregious and destructive intervention in the trust we Americans have for our entire system of government.

The Rise In Mortgage Rates

Due to the cautious fortunes of the decrease in unemployment figures, the Bond market has responded. Short term interest rates are starting their upward movement. We have seen mortgage rates go up precipitously these past few weeks. We encourage those seeking a Purchase or Refinance loan request, to hand in your application and to lock your loan as soon as possible. The longer you are on the sidelines, the likelihood rates will go up so dramatically you might not be able to take advantage of the competitive rates being offered today nor qualify for a loan. Please check our mortgage rates or call us at our office at 323-936-3232 for more information.

Thanks Again       

Dear Friends,

As I'm writing this week's TeamBlog, the heat and the billowing smoke from the wildfires encircling Los Angeles is truly menacing. This hot, muggy, August night resembles a description of a locale in a passage of a manuscript, perhaps written by Tennessee Williams or the likes of Truman Capote. I rarely perspire profusely, however on this particular evening living without the modern accoutrements of air conditioning, the cool ocean breeze so willing in making its presence known on so many occasions, is not forthcoming. 

I was scheduled to write about my views in regards to health reform today, but I've decided to postpone my involvement in an issue which needs a methodical temperament in its formulation and research. Time and patience are the key words which are required in any review of major legislation which affects the lives of all Americans. It comes to mind such advice and consent is nowhere to be found in the halls and corridors of government in Washington. In due course, a thoughtful and thorough examination will eventually occur.

As you are aware, Senator Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts passed away at the age of 77, a few days ago. Edward was laid to rest just yesterday, alongside his slain brothers, John and Robert at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington.

The Kennedy family will always be remembered by all Americans. When you remember someone from a distance, you can encapsulate or compartmentalize in your mind the specific attributes, details or glimpses which may have drawn your recollections. Public figures can be viewed or perceived as larger than life or humble aspirants of humility. The formation of this composite can be the handiwork of those individuals that have come to know the person well, the force of personality, the predilections of journalists in regards to one's intellect or demeanor and in later years, the opinions and research of historians towards the collective aspects and the volumes of work devoted to the aspirations of his convictions.  

Public service in America today is no longer recognized as a profession worthy of participation or of high esteem. The lack of respect of those in public office is a foregone conclusion. Greed, corruption, incompetence, hubris and avarice are just several of the buzz words devoted entirely to the behaviors of those in government. With this sad backdrop, judgements and opinions in regards to Senator Kennedy's record in government, the tragedies enveloping his family and the painful, tragic occurrence of a misbegotten event in 1969, has been rising to the housetops towards a scheduled denouement.

We must understand ourselves reasonably well to know that to judge others under these circumstances is not an honorable pursuit sanctioned by the Almighty, as He is the only one capable of so doing. By all accounts, we know Senator Kennedy was engagingly devoted to his beloved family, a hard worker concentrating his efforts on egalitarian causes and did his best to secure a vision of helping the downtrodden and the implementation of universal health care for all Americans. His deep focus in mastering legislation for passage by both chambers during a span of 47 years, is a testament to the passion he engineered as the most prolific legislator in US Senatorial history. This is an accomplishment few in government can ever hope to realize.

While the Catholic faith was a dominant presence in the Kennedy family, his pro-choice stance was certainly counter to the doctrines and beliefs of the church. This ironic and disturbing contradiction is perplexing and allows some to reach a troubling conclusion of false assumptions in his rationale for the existence and approval of measures to terminate life in the womb. Perhaps this debate is scheduled for another day, as numerous members of government, by embracing their faith in Catholicism and acceptance of pro-choice measures, adjust their public personas to coincide with an incongruous outpouring of compassion. Be that as it may, as members of the Catholic church, by partaking of concepts contrary to the teachings of a religion which offers genuine forgiveness for such indiscretions, the consequences of taciturn displays of faith in public, ultimately results in one's spiritual detriment. 

Coming from a wealthy family, there was no need to be anxious in regards to income. While money was not a source for worry, public service was the ultimate engine that ran the soul and fervor of the Kennedy family. I can only surmise the tragic assassinations of both older brothers, Jack and Robert in a span of less than 5 years, must have weighed heavily on his overall emotional wellbeing. Even in his own personal life, there were tragedies which are well known and documented for all of us to observe. While fate delivers a future destiny we can never know, Senator Kennedy did his best to overcome the pain many of us could not or could ever hope to endure. He comforted Jacqueline, her children and his brother Robert when President Kennedy was slain. He comforted a nation in a moving heartbreaking eulogy for his brother Robert, where all Americans wept uncontrollably at the loss of an extraordinary force for good. The words uttered that day in June of 1968 were written to convey the love we all seek, to heal the wounds of despair and hate during a year of horrific torment. 

At the 1980 Democratic Convention he gave the speech of a lifetime, where he conveyed the sacrifices of those eager to continue the vision promulgated by his brothers before him, even though he was unable to garner the helm of approval by the public at large during the primaries or by his party peers.

In a sense, a man's life in the public arena can never be his own. There are a multitude of challenges which envelop a public servant in today's society, where every movement, nuance or utterance is under an Orwellian authority maneuvered for our edification. Under these factors, one's character and integrity comes to be known. In Scripture, in Matthew 10:26 it is mentioned 'for nothing is covered that will not be revealed or hidden that will not be known.'

Senator Kennedy lived his life the best way he knew how. Americans are indeed grateful for lending his voice to causes unheralded by others in power or in influence. His devotion towards a dream where justice is paramount above all else, is universal. All of us have dreams. Our dreams can be big or small. To know if our dreams are worthy of promise or fruition is when we know its benevolent mission has been accomplished. For some of us, we know the answer.

Our sincere condolences and our thoughts and prayers go out to the Kennedy family, friends and colleagues. It was just a short time ago Eunice was called home. May Peace surround the hearts of those who mourn for a brother and sister we will soon never forget. 

Please view a small portion of Senator Kennedy's concession speech at the 1980 Democratic Convention: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k09ZBa_DO4Y 

Thanks Again          

Dear Friends,

As of today, there are only thirty days remaining until the warm winds of Summer gradually dissipate towards the brisk and chilly seasonal change of Autumn. Labor Day is a little over two weeks away and many of us will enjoy our last vacation with family and friends before the beginning of responsibilities tied to our work place the following day. However for many, this has been a Summer of discontent as unemployment has reached frightening Depression era proportions.

The figures for individual states were released on Friday by the US Bureau Of Labor Statistics. The state of Michigan tops the list with 15% unemployment, while Rhode Island 12.7%, Nevada 12.5%, Oregon 11.9% and California at 11.9% respectively, are the top 5 of 15 total states with double digit percentages. While the unemployment rate for July is currently at 9.4% for the nation, there has been dramatic increases in many urban areas throughout the country. It was reported last week the rise in unemployment among white collar workers has exacerbated the American economy with an upsurge in foreclosures. While the original focus of the foreclosure problem originated with sub prime adjustable loan programs, the loss of employment has created a new element of worry that a 'recovery' from this Recession will continue to be slow and painful. The unemployment figures did mention that 17 states showed a decrease, 7 states remained the same and 26 increased from a month earlier. While there could be a glimmer of hope if you see the glass as half full, the realities of those without work are too stark to not notice.

'Leveling Out'

The Fed Chairman on Friday mentioned the US and the global economy 'appears to be leveling out' and the 'prospects for a return to growth in the near term appear good'. The stock market was reassured of an economy on the mend and began its upward climb to over 9500 on the Dow, once these words by Mr. Bernanke were heard throughout Wall Street. The Bulls last Friday were in demand and eager to demolish the china shop by its ebullience at any words of encouragement or by reading of any financial statistic, however circumspect, by maneuvering its interpretation.

Real Estate Sales

Other news to bolster the rise of optimism was due to the sale of homes in July. The National Association Of Realtors reported real estate sales of single family homes were up for the 4th consecutive month at 7.2%. These figures can be construed as partially encouraging as foreclosed homes, REO or real estate owned homes by major banks were lowered dramatically in price where the likelihood of 'dumping' such properties was not out of the question. In lowering the purchase prices to such a degree, investors see a chance of a lifetime! First time homebuyers can take advantage of the governments' $8000 tax credit. Overall, anyone purchasing an owner occupied home can apply with FHA financing and with at least 3.5% in savings for a downpayment, many would jump at the chance to purchase a home. While this activity is an event in itself, many of these home sales were due to the misfortunes of others. The loss of a family home through foreclosure has brought an influx in new buyers to the market. While it's true we have a free market system and the financial ups and downs of our citizens is truly troublesome, the sale of foreclosed homes to first time home buyers or private investors particularly, is ethical food for thought.

Caution In The Wind

Notwithstanding, I must add a word of caution as we've been through this experience before and the likelihood of a bear market still looms just around the corner. The precipice of Trillion dollar deficits, continued double digit unemployment and a devalued US Dollar are all factors waiting for its time on center stage in the coming months.

The financial meltdown has affected all Americans by its insipid abilities to destroy one's peace of mind and has compelled an introspection in the manner of comportment we have for ourselves, our friends and loved ones. The stress brought about by this entire maelstrom of depressed economics by losing property, employment, upheaval of marriages and friendships is a wake up call that foretells the future of this country.

There is a mature element tied to America's economic challenges which has reminded many of us to become more aggressive in our financial dealings by approaching such matters in a logical, methodical and 'hands on' manner. We have become weary of financial advice from consultants unable to communicate intelligently the advantages or disadvantages of investments offered, the inability to provide worthy references or testimonials of previous clients or the sense of manipulation a client feels when undue pressure to 'sign on the dotted line' is due to the motivation for the official 'charm offensive' which is always a detriment towards the finances of the consumer.

We also seek guidance and support from those members in our family and good friends that open their hearts, their homes and their wallets by alleviating the effects of economic consequences when a paycheck or monies to pay necessities are not forthcoming. When there is no ability to keep a roof over one's head, keeping food on the table or paying for prescription medicine where does one go for comfort? These are questions being asked daily by millions of Americans decimated by the after effects of a financial system brought to its knees by greed, corruption and incompetence by the same forces orchestrating the 'mindless recovery' where graphs and statistics have more credence than the challenges of those homeless and unemployed. This Recession has torn apart families and marriages as the chronic financial stress and the daily struggle to keep a family together, has accumulated the grounds for partners to separate or file for divorce.

Personal Effects

As the owner of MoneyTeam for the past 20 years, I've seen first hand the effects a downturn in the economy can have on the  personal fortunes of those seeking guidance to minimize its damage. There are those that have the ability and the faith to whether the storm and show resilience throughout the period in question. Unfortunately, for many others, this Recession has contributed to the destruction of one's financial net worth to such a degree it may take years to recover. Moreover, the toll on personal relationships with others has contributed to a sense of foreboding and melancholy.

I was deeply saddened to know that one of my clients filed for divorce from a marriage of over 20 years due to the stresses of imminent foreclosure brought about by the loss of employment. While this situation is a source of grief for both partners, the realization there are similar outcomes just ahead for other marriages, holds no comfort. A 'recovery' in graphic financial terms does not provide the true picture of Americans suffering from these economic challenges.

'Be Of Good Cheer'

While this Recession will eventually come to an end, the damage in its wake has been life altering for many. In Scripture we become aware there will always be trials and tribulations throughout our lives. Jesus mentions on several occasions and under the most trying of circumstances for us 'to be of good cheer'. While we do not have the ability to predict our futures, we all know in our hearts this period of economic uncertainty will one day come to pass. There will be lessons learned of course and as a Christian nation, wisdom will be afforded to those that have sacrificed, so that others could begin to live again. 

The Summer Wind

You might want to view the TeamBlog written on June 20th, 2008. In that entry, I discuss Frank Sinatra and my fondness for the simple lyrics and his great voice singing the treasures which Summer always brings. We encourage you to check Frank's performance on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhhXEuxhpG4

Thanks Again      

Dear Friends,

A perception of what we believe is true or the anxiety we feel if a deadline is not met weighs upon our minds. We are distraught when given the true facts counter to our original thoughts and convince ourselves of a lost opportunity when time has slipped through our hands. In today's age we are losing the virtues which are intertwined with time. Patience has become a necessity for all of us and a hindrance for those unable to master the importance of its value. There comes a time in one's adult life there are events beyond one's ability to control. In order to meet challenges that are brought about by circumstances or consequences we've created ourselves or from outside sources, the terms of our delivery from its influence is dictated by those that hold views contrary to our own. To secure a path towards contentment and peace of mind, we must be aware of our surroundings and consciously seek the passion in ourselves to overcome all obstacles in meeting our goals. As active participants in democracy, we have been given an unencumbered freedom and responsibility to shape and mold our destinies in an attempt to make a difference in a world full of extremes.

There are numerous decisions which affect our lives profoundly and must be made with thorough deliberation and sustained perseverance, in questioning the wisdom of the choices in front of us. Whether one is to marry, divorce, adopt a child, purchase a home, move to another locale, vote for a congressman, start an exercise or diet regimen - these are just a few of the many examples where we are compelled to take the time needed to explore the situations which will have a direct impact on our lives and those of others.

We do our best when all of the facts are at our disposal in order to make a wise and informed decision. Perhaps, there might be information that has not yet come to light or is deliberately hidden from view. When these circumstances present themselves, we are still in the 'drivers seat' as our curiosity is tempered by the fact, there may be ulterior motives in play. When we recognize this distinction, we are apt to reach an elightened conclusion.

Government In Need Of Time

In 2 weeks I will be discussing my feelings in regards to the Health Reform debate. This issue has many Americans up in arms with nowhere to turn or who to trust, as many of the 'players' involved are being manipulated by special interests and in turn, these same 'players' are manipulating the general public. We need to remember Americans were promised that all legislation would be provided for perusal before Congress would cast its vote. Notwithstanding, when there is a 'rush to judgement' to 'sign, seal and deliver' health reform or any bill without a thoughtful debate on its merits to meet an ill conceived deadline for its passage, this type of maneuvering can be considered as reckless and irresponsible towards the interests of all Americans. This new manner of speed without thought is allowing ourselves to be engulfed in disastrous future consequences. Sadly, a sense of discernment, patience and wisdom are spiritual gifts unrewarded to those we've placed our trust to represent our interests in Washington. The Depression many Americans are facing today are direct results of consequences employed by lawmakers devoid of character nor substance. When our health, family, personal and business relationships are harmed by such stalwarts of inequity, we all suffer. Citizens are becoming disturbed and suspicious of government motives in rushing through bills without scrutiny. It's time Americans are afforded the respect and given the true facts on all matters affecting this nation.  

There are other issues which have become a disturbance to the equilibrium of common sense. 'Cap and Trade' legislation passed in the House Of Representatives will ultimately raise energy bills throughout the country if signed into law. This measure presumably reforms the manner in which utilities are provided and charged to the consumer. The reduction of carbon emissions nationwide will insure a cleaner environment as greenhouse gases will be curtailed. This reduction is the goal pursued by its authors and the lawmakers who voted for the passage of the legislation. While the idea of a clean and healthy environment is universally acclaimed, the process of an untried and risky system will generate additional costs in the billions. This bill was in need of a prolonged and seasoned debate in plain view and participation by the American people before its stamp of approval by Congress. The 'slow motion' treatment for this bill and others are certainly required in order to recognize and appreciate the cumbersome details in its 1000+ pages. Not surprisingly, we are now aware that many of the bills rushed through this session of Congress were never read by those voting for its contents.

Reviewing Our Options

Leaving Washington aside, we need to review our own lives and come to terms where growth can blossom by utilizing the thought provoking aspects which patience offers. 

Children perceive time vastly different than adults. As a child I remember a span of a few hours lasted a lifetime! Tying shoelaces, taking a bath, playing baseball with friends, flying a kite or reading a comic book took effort and looking back on these experiences it's as though I'm transported in time reliving these events 'in slow motion'. Americans would not be suffering the pain nor the struggles of an economy bordering on Depression if the persons we've empowered to implement decisions on our behalf, took the time to review, investigate and understood the power that affords those patient enough to secure a balanced outcome.  

Always seek guidance from the Almighty in making a decision. When you do, you will come to know that time is always on your side.

Mortgage Rates Take A Breather

We are happy to mention that interest rates are coming down again! Please check our current rates as we are now offering a 30 Year Conforming Fixed Rate at 4.875% @ 1 Point and a 15 Year Fixed Rate at 4.50% @ 1 Point. Please check our website for more details or call our office at 323-936-3232.

An 'Olympic' Messenger

Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the sister of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, our 35th President, Senator Robert "Bobby' Kennedy and Senator Edward 'Ted' Kennedy was called home this past week at 88 years young. Eunice made a difference. She was a strong, exceptionally gifted woman devoted to help those in need. Her devout faith gave Eunice the courage to overcome the personal tragedies of losing beloved members of her family. The love Eunice gave to her children was shared, recognized and expressed by youngsters around the world. The children competing in the Special Olympics since its founding in 1968, brought us joy and reminded many of us that love does indeed come from little souls with ailments. Whatever the symptom, all of these children are special as love comes in all sizes. We are healed of inequities by their presence. Eunice helped us recognize these little Angels are indeed Special and Olympians too! 

Thanks Again   

Dear Friends,

Many of us are working harder, longer and with more intensity than years past. There are those that have lost their jobs due to the malfeasance, mismanagement, greed and corruption brought about by those in the halls of Congress and in the boardrooms of major Wall Street concerns. This assembled cast of characters were well aware of their actions which led to the current global financial catastrophe. By so doing, these individuals continue to benefit from the economic destruction of countless lives by the ironic reward of Trillion dollar bailouts awarded by the sweat and tears of the American taxpayer.

It is demoralizing and cynical to be made aware that the demise of this nation's economy and the devastating financial status of many Americans, was originated and manipulated by persons we in good faith have placed our sincere trust to oversee our interests. In this situation, there is a Higher power which will, in due course, unleash the workings of justice to the delight of those scourged by the workings of these unscrupulous agents.

While there are many Americans eagerly searching for employment to provide comfort for their families during this Recession, there are concurrent powerful forces willing to exert a protracted influence and ultimate dominance by rejecting the work ethic which has created and sustained the machinations of democracy and this nation.

All of the legislation espoused or devised by this session of Congress has as its intended purpose, the abrogation of the free enterprise system and unraveling the independence of American citizens. It is true the financial meltdown has made many of us weary. If led to our own devices, we might let our government give us a hand in helping us overcome the effects of our current economic status by redirecting wealth so those more affluent can devote a healthy percentage of their income to better our lot in life. While this 'Robin Hood' mystique is a reckless dream pursued by those in Socialist and Marxist regimes, we are now hearing more of this from imagined 'elites' and dysfunctional purveyors of decadent thought to bolster the old and tired axiom of maintaining an egalitarian society where above all else the proletariat exists. In this setting we as Americans will become vulnerable to the intrusion of government in our daily lives to the detriment of our dignity, privacy and our peace of mind. An Orwellian concept of 'Big Brother' overseeing the workings of our lives is reserved not for the American government, but reserved for the love and kindness of the Almighty. We are not pawns or chess pieces to be manipulated by bureaucrats or unbeknownst forces in hiding, willing to have vast control of our financial or medical records or God forbid, our intellectual capacities. This is truly a struggle that has befallen our nation since I dare say, January 20th of this year.

Suffice it to say, Americans are entering a whirlwind of activity which will change the concept of democracy and sovereignty as we've known it throughout our lives. After reading passages of the 1000 + pages of the Health Reform Bill currently being debated in Congress, we as Americans need help to end this onslaught towards perdition promulgated by an uncontrolled and unprincipled Congress. I will be discussing the Health Reform Bill in this TeamBlog in 3 weeks where I will highlight the deception a 'reform' of such magnitude will effectively change our lives to our detriment.

Many of us have come to America and have fled tyrannical regimes which abuse their citizens and promulgate philosophies of hatred, discrimination and despotism to garner control. My entire family left such a country many years ago. However, for me to be made aware of conversations or suggestions by politicians mentioning the 'stellar' health care of those in Cuba compared to the care in the US and in so doing are eager to impose this exact system of care in this country, I become exasperated by the dishonesty and ignorance of those that have the power and control to offer such discredited opinions. Sometimes I shake my head in bewilderment, sadly knowing full well we have children running the asylum we call the US Government!

Without hard work we will never be entitled to the fruits of our labors. Work is the fundamental aspect which instills in us the value of the dollar and the ability to use the monies from our toil in purchases for our enjoyment and investment. When we are afforded public monies by government programs where work was not a factor in determining the distribution of those receiving such funds, this activity begins the destruction of our abilities to be productive citizens in the operation of capitalism. The legislation coming out of Congress nowadays is inspired to broaden those on the public payrolls or to become attached to 'welfare'. These actions as mentioned earlier, are the prerequisites which will help government control the lives of its citizens.

The playwright Eugene O'Neill wrote about a dysfunctional family in his award winning play, 'Long Day's Journey Into Night'. This drama was autobiographical in nature as the manuscript explores a family addicted to the effects brought about by either alcohol, morphine and the failings towards each other during a long and exhausting day at their home situated at a seaside cottage in Connecticut. This play was written several years before his death and was first performed in 1956. The following year he received a posthumous Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Play.

As an undergraduate I remember reading the book and have seen the 1962 film where Katherine Hepburn plays the role of the mother, Mary Tyrone. The life of Eugene O'Neill was beset by health concerns and a roller coaster existence brought about by the same ailments as written in his award winning play. The actions of the Tyrone's can be construed to be similar to those personalities we currently have in Congress. With all due respect to Mr. O'Neill, the dysfunctional aspects of the politicians in Washington are best remembered by the intense manifestations of disbelief portrayed by the characters inspired in this play. It is now known the denouement of this entire conflagration towards government inspired health care and socialist endeavors will spring to its climax this coming October. Let's hope the balancing effect of the Libra Moon insures the path is well traveled by those that have read, appreciate and understand the Constitution.

Odds & Ends

I want to thank all of you for your participation in reading our TeamBlog! The past 7 days has skyrocketed our readership tremendously! We hope the entries have provided an intelligent, intellectual and healthy discussion of the challenges Americans face today.

Thanks Again