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Dear Friends,

MoneyTeam is celebrating its 12th Annual Team Tot Toy Drive for disadvantaged youngsters in the Los Angeles area. We are seeking new, unwrapped toys. Please call our office at 323-936-3232 to arrange a pick up of your donation.

Many of the toys are delivered to children suffering from health complications throughout hospitals in the area. We also distribute toys to local charities. This year the demand for toys has increased due to the financial condition of many families. Please call our office as your gift will help rejuvenate the spirits of a child. We urge you to schedule a time so we can pick up your toy, no later than Friday, December 23rd so your donation can be received in time for Christmas. Please help those in need this Holiday Season.

Thanks Again

Dear Friends,

Today is Veterans Day. We remember the sacrifice of those that have placed the love of country and its ideals, so we can live in freedom.

While America is in turmoil from within, many of us embrace the substance of character displayed by our men and women in the armed forces. The battles won for the sake of liberty and the unceasing desire to end tyranny, is a lasting and profound argument for this country's existence.

We pray for those in combat. May the Lord guide their path. Let us remember that Americans will always fight for liberty!

Thanks Again

Dear Friends,

In my last TeamBlog entry, I invited all of my friends to join me in traveling to a fictional town where grace, substance and tranquility are embraced in 'full measure'. While the town of Willoughby is an imaginary place documented in film as an episode in the classic television series, 'The Twilight Zone', I am content to have dwelled in the fantasies of a life devoid of suffering, turmoil and pain. Unfortunately, I am unable to prolong my visit there, as the world vociferously pulls you back to an existence where one's magnanimous contributions to society are questioned for its authenticity. This sad and troublesome view has come to fruition by the thoughts, deeds and actions of those that have lost their way and seek dominance in numerous endeavors by the pursuit of financial gain at all costs.

As of September 11th, I am back from my 33 day journey where I am mentally exhausted to be reacquainted with the disappointments and the stark reality of a nation beleaguered by false proclamations of compassion from powerful interests. While the financial status of this nation continues to unravel, we as Americans are weary of the torment which has created a change in our attitudes and beliefs in regards to our station in life. Many of us love this country more than life itself. The freedoms and the liberties many Americans throughout history have fought and died for, is a testament to the foundations of a great society since the days of its Independence. 

It is imperative our children and succeeding generations have the ability and the resources to appreciate and continue the path set forth by a courageous citizenry. The current level of US debt of approximately $14 Trillion has enabled the decline of our sovereignty personally and globally. America's dominance in projecting steadfast democratic principles has been 'downgraded' by debt in the trillions to other countries. These nations are waiting for an opportunity to demonstrate their power in efforts to manipulate the markets and to create havoc. America has no other choice to tread lightly or the economic system we have long become accustomed, will no longer be recognizable. 

While I can continue to highlight my displeasure of the calamities awaiting the American public by the circumstances that currently confront us, there is hope. Many of us realize the frailties of the most powerful interests in our society. Whether in government, business or media, there is a burgeoning population of discerning individuals that have recognized the landscape and are willing to fight for the preservation of the republic. There are healthy, and at times exhaustive debates taking place today, where the focus involves the direction of the country. Americans agree the last several years has damaged the resourcefulness and the spirits of everyone seeking to replenish their dreams. For those in the millions that have lost their homes, jobs and finances, one must truly understand the causes of this affliction.

I will be discussing this situation again in a future TeamBlog entry, 'The Rain Is Gone', where lyrics to a popular 70's hit, will be my inspiration. I plan on offering unvarnished opinions and suggestions which will address the problems we've created and the solutions to regain America's prosperity.

9/11/2001 Remembered

All of us are aware that it has been 10 years since the terrorist attacks on American soil. The manner in which lives were lost that day, is still painfully remembered by everyone.

During that period I would regularly watch the Today show before work. I was in disbelief and horrified to view the live transmission of the events that transpired, as lives were lost at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and in an open field near a small town located in Pennsylvania. The airplanes directed at the Towers was unbelievably graphic and disturbing. Certainly, the hatred of those that masterminded this atrocity for a religious philosophy have engineered the ultimate crime. We need to be reminded once again, the virtues of a humble theology wherein a God endeared by faith, directs a path where love is embraced. To live in harmony, to love our neighbors, to seek the desires of our heart so our families and friends can prosper, these are just several affirmations of faith in the true manner one is to achieve and nurture an abundant life.  

While all of our lives have changed, the effects of that tragic day has created an event that binds all Americans. While many of us are anxious and  fighting for our financial lives in 2011, we continue to endure. After the attacks, all of us were unified to confront the sources seeking our destruction. Today, our nation is ever vigilant. While we live in dangerous times, the hand of God continues to bless America. While we face economic challenges similar in scope to the Great Depression, we must never let ourselves become victims of our circumstances. This tragic event has become a part of our DNA. Americans will never give up their freedom and to this end, all of us are are steadfastly unified as we were 10 years ago.

Our prayers are for those that lost their lives that fateful day and their families and friends. We also pray for our nation, as we continue to heal from the loss of innocent lives, the images of despair and the pain associated with the nightmare that has changed our lives forever.

Mortgage Rates

Our rates have never been this low! NOW is the greatest time to take advantage of these spectacular mortgage rates! Please check our website for our current pricing. MoneyTeam will do its best to MEET or BEAT any advertised FIXED CONFORMING OR JUMBO mortgage rate. Please call our office for more details at 323-936-3232 for more details.

Thanks Again  

Dear Friends,

So far this Summer I've noticed and seem to have acquired several habits which I personally consider troublesome. I've been spending too much time on the couch watching television, I've been over eating more than I should and I've been unable to sleep by waking up in the middle of the night for no apparent reason. Collectively one can diagnose that I might be under duress or unable to grasp the absence of one's loving embrace. While these ailments are attributed to my current chapter in an otherwise life well lived, I am compelled to change the direction in which I find myself.

Many of us have challenges in our personal and business lives. Perhaps, family obligations surrounding finances or the health of loved ones can be overwhelming. In business, the stress of deadlines, production goals or the desire of recognition for a job well done as a steppingstone for promotional advancement, all of these efforts can be considered a description of one's employment responsibilities.

During my excursion in TV Land, I've come across delightful television programs where human nature and mutual respect compliments the interaction among the characters. Whether a comedy or drama, one can appreciate the substance in which the portrayals of courage, decency and the affirmation of faith are intertwined as a reminder of values to be nurtured. Most of these programs are from another era. Unfortunately, a good percentage of television devised for the viewer today, has no redeeming quality and lacks the intelligence or the intellectual capacities one seeks in any art form. 

While living in a nation where freedom to offer an opinion about everything as a curmudgeon of a perceived stature is my right, I am confident that I am not the only inhabitant of over 307 million Americans content with the complete unraveling of a once great society. While the abyss may be around the corner, one is compelled to rise up and scream as loud as one can to end the mental illness we've suffered from dysfunctional personalities in all branches of government, business and the media. While the address or addresses of the 'asylums' are known, there are those like myself weary of the consequences. As an example, the medicine prescribed by a government incapable of deep thought, has transformed a once healthy AAA bond rating of 94 years towards a credit downgrade where investor confidence has become undeterminable.

One night last week, I was tossing and turning and unable to fall asleep. I decided it would be best to turn on the TV to see if I can find anything that can offer me the ability to relax. After flicking the channels I was able to tune into the The Twilight Zone, where the scheduled episode was 'A Stop At Willoughby'. I consider this 1960 episode of the series one of my favorites! Character actor James Daly plays our protagonist, Gart Williams.

The story revolves around an executive in an advertising firm frustrated and unable to cope with the chronic stress of his job and the humiliation he must endure by an arrogant and selfish wife. His employer constantly demands to 'push, push, push' as a prerequisite for additional sales. The overwhelming responsibilities of the main character leads to frustration and ultimate burnout.

While traveling to his residence via the outbound train, our friend takes a nap and dreams of a serene, tranquil village where the townsfolk are enjoying a sunny Summer day, set in July of 1888. The conductor mentions the next stop is Willoughby. This town is not to be found on the regular stops and is only known in his imagination. We know that Willoughby is 'a peaceful restful place where a man can slow down to a walk and live his life full measure.'

When our friend boards the train for the third time, he dreams again of Willoughby, a village where time stands still. The conductor beckons and our beleaguered friend decides to leave his briefcase and descends from the train and walks towards a gazebo where all the folks he encounters greet and welcome him to Willoughby. The peaceful and solitude of a life worth living is exemplified by the warmth our friend has captured by the kindness of those he meets. Unfortunately, in the next scene we see our friend lying motionless as an ambulance from the Willoughby & Sons Funeral Home takes him away. The conductor mentioned the poor chap jumped out of the train. His last words were of Willoughby! 

While I have no compunction to jump out of a train, an automobile or a plane due to the excesses of living a life in a 21st Century big city, I do seek peace, quiet and solitude from the cacophony of a community where such pleasantries are difficult to find. Even though one is deluged by the torment of living in a society where elite secular convictions is a staple of simple minds, I have the capability to dream of a day when living life abundantly is the force of my own existence.

It is my belief that Americans have exhausted the hourly proclamations of social and economic disaster which engulfs our daily lives. The gyrations of a financial system on the brink of collapse or participation in a culture where debasement is incorporated as an elixir for entertainment, one wonders where is America headed? To drown our sorrows by embracing the actions of those seeking to undermine the soul of this nation is unforgivable.

The time has come to live life in full measure. I can't wait to visit Willoughby again! I invite all Americans to join me too! 

Thanks Again    

Dear Friends,

The other day one of my neighbors boisterously knocked on my front door eager to hear my reaction in what he heard on the radio. He mentioned the President would halt Social Security payments if the debt ceiling was not agreed upon by the August 2nd deadline imposed by the US Treasury. I did my best to reassure Johnny, a man in his early 70's, that he will continue to receive his monthly Social Security check of $750. It is a sad day indeed when a President must feel compelled to abrogate the sacred trust of all Americans in efforts to win a compromise in a negotiation. Lest we remember the monies in question are earned and are placed in trust. These benefits are earmarked for Seniors and those in the Military and are to be paid on time, regardless of what the President the Secretary of the Treasury or anyone in Congress says about it.

A couple of weeks ago Americans received discouraging news about the economic misfortunes of millions as the unemployment rate rose to 9.2%. Only 18,000 jobs were created in June. We also became aware of the increasing numbers of adults seeking unemployment benefits hovering over 421,000 on a 4 week average basis.

So far this week there were 23,000 jobs lost as Cisco, Lockheed Martin and Borders granted pink slips through downsizing or bankruptcy. These newest figures continue to depress Americans financially and emotionally.

After 30 years, the Space Shuttle program ended its mission yesterday, July 21st. It is my understanding the complete Space program will no longer be operational due to the powerful actions of those presently in government. While the previous administration suggested the Shuttle program be replaced by newer and more innovative attempts of space flight through the Constellation program, the reality we face today is the abandonment of such worthwhile and inspiring efforts. Over 4500 NASA employees this week lost their jobs. While the support staff of NASA will no longer bring home a paycheck to support themselves or their families, the same plight begins anew for others in the work force. Whether they are business owners, patrons and those who are in direct or indirect contact with the Space program itself, job losses for members of this community are inevitable. It is a sad day when the dream of Space exploration for so many Americans has abruptly come to an end, while the former Soviet Union can claim victory thorough its prolonged perseverance as the newest force in the heavens. I can just imagine the reaction of our beloved JFK, if he were alive today.

There are so many homeless people here in Los Angeles. One can come across neighborhoods where one can walk or drive towards a destination, only to discover panhandlers, men lying on sidewalks or grabbing for food out of garbage bins. From a distance you can view makeshift tents made out of cardboard and grocery carts full of bottles, cans and newspapers. These items hold value as income, once recycled.

It would not be an exaggeration on any given day for me to see a sign held by a Veteran alerting passersby that any donation would be appreciated. Whether to find lodging for the night or to come across monies for a meal, the sight of a US War Veteran seeking sustenance in such a manner is disturbing. This country owes a debt of gratitude for those that have enlisted in the armed forces by sacrificing their youth for our freedom. The trauma of combat and the psychological effects which permeate through a soldier's interaction with himself and with others, can be considered a direct result of homelessness for many Veterans. As a nation we need to offer these men the care, compassion and respect they have dutiful earned.

During the past several weeks I've noticed an onslaught of graffiti on businesses near where I live. I never understood the motivation of desecrating property in such a manner. I would surmise this is an ongoing concerted effort by misguided and intellectually debased messengers of an empty culture. Their attempts to gain recognition by spray painting symbols on commercial buildings, offers no intrinsic value nor worthwhile meaning for its justification. It is frustrating to view such markings, where for the third or fourth time in as many weeks, one of the building owners has tried unsuccessfully to repaint the area where graffiti has found its niche. This property owner must be wondering what good is it to be in business where such damage is a weekly occurrence. 

In my travels throughout Southern California, I've also noticed an increase in empty buildings for lease. I passed through one of my favorite areas near the Coast and I was dismayed to see more than a half dozen businesses side by side abandoned with 'for rent' signs. I have seen these real estate signs posted in neighborhoods where just a few blocks away, there are homes valued in the millions!

It is not uncommon for me to be awakened by the distant but ever present sound of police sirens during the early morning hours. I have no need for an alarm clock as I have come to rely on this almost daily ritual as my 6 AM wake up call. As I write this, I am able to hear the whirling of a helicopter overhead. This is just another example or a reminder that it's time to shower, get dressed and prepare breakfast for the busy day ahead.  

For many of us, this current chapter in American history has become our Summer of Discontent. One notices the empty baseless speeches of prosperity fantasies, mediocre attempts to inspire citizens in efforts to overcome current challenges and the failure of the 4th estate to investigate and document the corruption which has led this nation towards ruin. The main cast of characters in government, business and the media has continued their onslaught of shelving the American Dream through an unrelenting embrace of censorship and duplicity combined with elements of incompetence. Government encroachment in our sovereignty and the gross intervention of regulation in business, has created the loss of confidence in the marketplace. The free enterprise system is no longer free or thriving, due to the inept understanding and/or the willful tweaking of capitalism by the current power structures America has unwittingly allowed in its stead. The harm to our way of life knows no boundaries. The time has arrived to end the deception of those eager to transform a great nation, into a banana republic.

Foreclosure Postponement

In the TeamBlog entry 'Summer Doldrums', I did not mention the scourge of madness which has enveloped this country through foreclosures. Last year foreclosure recordings were over 1 Million. This year the likelihood of similar statistics is a reality. 

In our efforts to help homeowners facing the loss of their property, MoneyTeam has begun a new service to postpone the Trustee Sale Date by at least 30 days. This can provide the time required to complete a negotiation with one's lender for a loan modification, a sale of the property or to accommodate a short sale of the premises. Please check our webpage - Foreclosure Postponement - for more details. We want to help you.

Thanks Again