Monday, June 29, 2015

Misleading and Fraudulent Housing Data

In February of 2009, the Government Census Bureau was moved to the executive branch, most thought to deal with congressional redistricting. A byproduct was the reporting of misleading and fraudulent data.

Of note this week was the "discovery" of some real questionable activity with the reporting of the housing numbers, specifically new home sales.  Already, we have documented erroneous data with respect to how unemployment rates are calculated.  Why not extend the propaganda throughout government data?  NBC will be happy to report it.

While housing is performing in certain locations, rental rates are rising due to higher demand of folks who ordinarily would be potential home buyers, giving indication the equilibrium in these markets the incorrect measurements suggests is not real.

Most of America does not have time to sift through the bull crap to figure out what is real and what is a manipulated fabrication. Therefore, most everything goes unquestioned, and when caught and reported, the level of deception is to intricate for the average person to comprehend.

As such, we get the government we deserve, one which is diminishing liberty and freedom for all of us on a daily basis, and on a much larger scale than even those who "get it" can imagine.

"When you see that men get richer by graft and by pull than by work, and your laws don’t protect you against them, but protect them against you–when you see corruption being rewarded and honesty becoming a self-sacrifice–you may know that your society is doomed"  --Ayn Rand, “Atlas Shrugged”

Sunday, June 28, 2015

GOP Lost Land of Lincoln

Although the GOP collected landslide victories in 2010 and 2014, the executive branch is slapping the legislative branch silly.  The country solidly believes we are on the wrong track, yet not only are the GOP feeble in stopping Obama, they are working with him. It is Animal Farm coming to life.

Immigration, Obamacare, TPP, gun control, gay marriage, Common Core, you name it, they have no strategy or leadership plan to diminish in scope, much less defeat, any of Obama's transformative ambitions.

I have not heard any real substantive push back while Obama falls over himself to foster a deal with the champion of dishonest nations, Iran, and have not read a credible GOP plan for stopping ISIS.

"In a single week we have seen the Congress surrender its legislative authority through fast-track, we have seen the Court rewrite the dictionary to protect Obamacare, and we have seen unelected judges rewrite the Constitution in order to impose the will of five on 300 million" said Sen. Jeff Sessions, R:AL.

It is beyond comprehension.  Nobody can be completely sold on the idea the GOP is this inept, so we are only left to conclude, that outside of perhaps about 25 of them, inclusive of Sen. Sessions, the GOP is quite comfortable with the wreckless, anti-American actions of our President.


The GOP has perished, with no more political battles pretend to lose while clandestinely supporting. The land of Lincoln, and the party perhaps our greatest president helped form, has been lost, defeated seemingly without a fight.

Moving forward, for whatever it is sadly worth, we will be ejecting from the broken system and voting accordingly.

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Play To Win Again

Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal is in.

Announcing his candidacy this afternoon, Jindal struck several chords in the performance of an excellent speech in front of jubilant supporters.

I recognize the impressive record Bobby Jindal has put together, and I will be giving Jindal a thorough look.

 

I agree with Jindal.  It is time for America to play to win once again.

The Health Trap

As many of us accurately predicted, Obamacare as passed was unsustainable and would create such dysfunction cries for a quick fix would roar. It has begun, and the end game of a single payer plan, always the goal, is coming our way quicker than first thought, limiting choice and reducing quality of care for paying consumers, placing your health care in total control of the Federal Government.

Zero Hedge, citing a Wall Street Journal report, produces a thorough and scathing post detailing how the passage of Obamacare will permanently limit the efficiency of deliverance across the board, raising the costs, reducing competition and limiting accountability, quality and safety for the consumer.

Costs and premiums are rising, while you cannot actually keep your doctor.  Choices of plans are diminishing, and flexibility of coverage for the insured is being reeled in. Your relationship with your physician is no longer paramount, as he relationship that counts is between the company providing you with your plan and their biggest customer, which is the federal government rather than you.

In addition, Sarah Palin was quite correct.  There is the formation of death panels, which will become an unwanted intrusion into the relationship between the physician controlled by the government and you.  Sadly, the less the government values your contributions to society, perhaps indicated not by action but by age, the more cost prohibitive the necessary procedure becomes, significantly limiting the odds the patient receives the procedure.

President Obama, at a very minimum, misrepresented health care legislation to the American people. Elections have consequences, and sadly, thanks to idiots drunk on a sea of irrelevance who were fooled once again, we are about to pay up, and in a most punitive way.

Congratulations.

Voters sent GOP representatives to the Congress and Senate in droves in 2010 and 2014, sending a strong message they wanted this signature and partisan legislation defeated.  However, when the GOP presidential candidate was himself an advocate of government health care, just ran by smarter people than Obama, the conservative base shrugged.

It has gotten so bad, these politicians from both sides intoxicated with power, that many in the GOP, while publicly expressing opposition, quietly worked behind the scenes to help Obamacare limit across the finish line.  A weapon, the power of the purse, was never seriously considered. Speaker John Boehner and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell are very weak and need to be defeated, and as Mark Levin says, "Let them fight for their political careers as our response to their disgusting and pathetic behavior.”

The legislation was not about health care.  It, with a hidden concern of global warming, is about control of the people.  Progressive elites are concerned about population control and the effect the everyday habits of private citizens have on the earth. Obamacare has many tentacles within the legislation nobody has read, which leaves decisions to "the secretary" or to panels assembled with unelected  bureaucrats who are untouchable  by the electorate.

In addition, these panels may be globalized, and fall under the jurisdiction of the United Nations, again, with the main concern of global warming and population control.  Activities will be taxed, as the progressive elite utilize media partners in the promotion of health conscious lifestyles, whether you wish to be involved in them or not.  Budweiser will not be considered a healthy lifestyle.

When the dust settles on this new trade agreement, and it becomes clear America is taking direction from a global governance, health care will be spread across the globe to those who are not as fortunate. While this may be a wonderful thing to be involved in, the taxpayers will foot the bill whether they want to or not.

Bottom line is that you were lied to about Obamacare, inclusive of  its true objectives, the costs associated with it and the benefits, or lack thereof, you will receive from being enrolled.  The same big health care companies previously in charge are still in charge, except they answer to the federal government rather than to you. And the price to get in bed with the federal government, which comes from loss of directional control and financial freedom, will be steep, paid for at the end of the day by the end consumer; you.

Idiots voting have dire consequences, and we will soon learn that lesson the hard way.

Monday, June 22, 2015

Stealing American Sovereignty

Against the will of the people, in a cloud of secrecy, another attempt to pass Obamatrade, by both parties, is coming. Sen. Jeff Sessions, R:AL is warning America, as a significant loss of her sovereignty will occur should Obamatrade pass.

Please contact your representatives at once to stop this!

It is a "living agreement" with global governance, which means America would adhere to rules from partner nations as they, not us, see fit. Can you envision Obama as UN Chief further in a few years diminishing and transferring the wealth of America to nations he deems in need?

In an interview yesterday, Obama declared he would be an ever better presidential candidate if he were running for a third term because, "I know what I am doing and I'm fearless."  But, Obama is not running for a third presidential term, but he may soon be seeking to lead the UN, under whose guidance the TPP, and the Law of Sea Treaty, which was described as necessary as part of a sustainable world, among other treaties, falls.

Many of these treaty agreements supersede our laws, so the damage to American sovereignty inflicted by Obama may last generations.  Obama does not have an allegiance to the United States of America, rather viewing it as an oppressive nation, guided with founding principles that are discriminatory. Transferring wealth and power from America to nations Obama deems had the assets stolen by the United States is logical to a globalist like Obama.

Sen. Sessions is sounding an alarm, and so am I.  Rather than being lost in a sea of irrelevance, it it time Americans distance themselves away from the propaganda of the mainstream media and do some critical thinking about how the freedoms we hold dear are being taken from us without a fight.

Stealing American sovereignty; seemingly taken without a fight by an anti-American man who "knows what he is doing and is fearless".

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Evil Makes No Distinctions

Evil is running roughshod across the globe.

Last night, evil turned up in The Holy City, Charleston, South Carolina, a city where no building stands taller than the steeples throughout the historic city.
Charleston, South Carolina
A very deranged young man attended a church meeting, and after an hour or so of faked fellowship, did the unspeakable, murdering in cold blood a prominent minister and eight parishioners, before escaping into the night.

Adding to the horrendous nature of this crime is the fact that the shooter was a white man, and his victims were members of the second oldest predominantly black church in the nation, Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Charleston.  Obviously, this will be considered a hate crime, and the death penalty will be appropriately sought after.

Given the racial divisiveness the has fallen over our nation in recent months, many involving the police, this savage and sick crime could not have come at a worse time.  The recent altercations, from the Trayvon Martin case in Central Florida to the events in Baltimore, has provided a platform to those who seek racial strife in chaos rather than peace and love.

Some have already taken the opportunity to advance political aspirations and agendas, sadly inclusive of President Obama and 2016 Democratic hopeful Hillary Clinton, who today called for more gun control.  We will successfully defend the second amendment with these folks on another day.

On this day, our nation is in mourning.  Our nation is reeling that evil came come so pronounced in such a place where the presence of evil is deemed off limits.  Our hearts are broken, as evil claimed the lives of some our finest citizens, who you can learn about from the Washington Post.  We pray for comfort for the families and friends of these outstanding servants of our Lord.

The last city I laid my head to sleep in outside of my city of residence was Charleston while attending to matters at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC).  The city is beautiful, and the town folks are friendly and welcoming, certainly inclusive of  the wonderful staff at MUSC. This is evident by the class and dignity exhibited by the residents in the aftermath of this tragedy, holding strong in faith.

Evil paid Charleston a deadly visit on Wednesday night.  Contrary to the opinions of some, evil does not make distinctions between race, creed, gender, political affiliation, financial status, height, weight, sexual preference or favorite sports teams.  Evil is ruthless; without mercy.

Evil attacks goodness, and although we will have setbacks like the heartbreaking events in Charleston last night, evil will be defeated, and we remain strong in our faith, which will be our saving grace.

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Principles Put To Bed

Hillary Clinton is now a champion for gay marriage, but just a decade ago, she cited marriage between a man and a woman as a "bedrock principle".

     

Do you shift your bedrock principles often? Does Ms. Clinton have any principles, or is she a liar who seeks to gain political advantage by any means necessary?

Well, she is a Saul Alinsky gal, so I'll note the latter is confirmed.

Hopefully, America will not elect to our highest office an unprincipled individual, as "The most promising method of securing a virtuous and morally stable people is to elect virtuous leaders."

Monday, June 15, 2015

Living The American Dream

I was saddened last week to learn of the passing of professional wrestler Dusty Rhodes, "The American Dream."  Although he was originally a Texan, he was a Floridian, living here in Central Florida until his sudden death here on June 11.

Professional wrestling is not a sport I am a fan of, but times were different when I was a little kid and Rhodes was wrestling in shows across Florida. These were the days before cable television, and each Saturday just before noon, there was little to watch during the off-season of college football.

So, many here in watched along each weekend as Rhodes, appropriately described by Brian Campbell of ESPN as chubby and lovable, battled his foes with famed chain smoking ring announcer Gordon Solie in disbelief.  The ultimate fan favorite, Rhodes was elected into the WWE Hall of Fame, appropriately so.

Rhodes was a fun guy, a common man with a way with words. "Tower of Power, Man of the Hour, Too Sweet to be Sour"! Dusty lived the American dream, and his life was cut short too soon.

RIP Dusty Rhodes: "The American Dream. So long from the Sunshine State.

 

Saturday, June 13, 2015

The Hall of BAHL

Sports is and always has played a significant role in my life. I have found that most all of life's lessons are learned between the lines. Discipline, individual responsibility, teamwork and sportsmanship are among many opportunities presented within the games that offer guidance to prosper in life.

Over the years, there have been many individuals associated with sports that I have looked up to, been a fan of, owned a jersey of or just pulled for. These are my guys, and although it has not always been a road without bumps for many, these are my guys. In an effort to recognize these folks, I have formed The Hall of BAHL.

Individuals making this list may or may not be the greatest ever players, coaches or ambassadors, but they are my favorites.

Each year, I will induct five members into The Hall of BAHL. In honor of my good buddy and Sportsman Big Ole BudFeiser, who we lost in 2011 and who I grew up playing sports with, each class will annually be announced on his birthday, June 13.

The inductees for the 2015 Hall of BAHL class are listed in no particular order below:

DICK HOWSER

It is not often in sports when some of your favorite people get to play integral roles for your favorite college and professional teams, but for me, Dick Howser was such a man.  Howser was the first All America baseball player at Florida State University, twice earning the honor as a shortstop.  Howser was signed by the Kansas City Athletics, and earned rookie of the year honors.

After his playing career ended, he joined the New York Yankees as third base coach, even managing a game during the 1978 season.  Howser came home to Florida State to become manager in 1979, but was hired away to become the Yankees skipper in 1981.  He was then hired to manage the Kansas City Royals, who he led to many division titles which culminated in wining the 1985 World Series.

While managing the 1986 All Star Game for the American League, players and announcers noticed Howser was not himself.  He stepped aside for treatment for what was diagnosed as a brain tumor.  Howser tried to return to the Royals in 1987, but it was not to be due to his condition.

Howser died back in June of 1987at St. Luke's Hospital in Kansas City, Mo., just two years after leading the Kansas City Royals to their first World Series victory, won in 1985 over the St. Louis Cardinals in the I-70 Series. He was buried in Tallahassee, Florida.

'No matter how you prepare for this day, when it actually happens, it's a shock,'' said George Brett, the Royals' third baseman. ''You just hate to see him go. He's going to be missed.''

In 1988, during a preseason game where the Kansas City Royals came to Tallahassee to play the Seminoles, a game I was fortunate to attend and have a commemorative bat from, FSU names the on campus baseball stadium in honor of Howser as Dick Howser Stadium was born. As reported by Seminoles.com, "As part of the stadium dedication, Kansas City all-stars George Brett and Bo Jackson helped unveil a new $150,000 matrix scoreboard and a bronze bust of Howser.


Hoswer has had his number retired by both the Florida State Seminoles and the Kansas City Royals, with bronze statues at both baseball parks.  I have visited both of these personally, and they are beautiful tributes to an individual who is among the most beloved people to grace those places.



It is an honor to induct forever Royal Dick Howser, an unconquered Seminole, to the Hall of BAHL.

WARRICK DUNN

Back in Baton Rouge, LA, Florida State commit Warrick Dunn was dealt a tragic blow as his mother, Betty Smothers, a Baton Rouge police officer, was shot to death in the line of duty.  This tragic event, which made Warrick head of his household, could have derailed many a young man, but Smothers did not raise such a man. Dunn held steady on his commitment to Florida State, where he became one of the most gifted players ever to wear the garnet and gold.

Dunn possessed blazing speed and was member of the FSU track team, but it was his cat quickness with great vision that he was noted for.  Dunn was stellar in evading would be tacklers and was brilliant catching the ball out of the backfield.  More important, although soft spoken, Dunn was a team leader, a young man of great character who was a role model for his teammates and fans.

Dunn helped Florida State win the schools first National Championship in 1993, and in integral play in that season was a tough win at Florida, where Dunn took a swing pass from Charlie Ward and raced for a score late to capture the win.



Dunn closed out his FSU career as the school leader in career rushing yards, most rushing yards in a season and became the only Seminole to rush for over 1000 in three consecutive seasons.  Dunn's number 28 jersey has appropriately been retired by Florida State.

Dunn played in the NFL for over a decade, beginning and ending with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a few years as an Atlanta Falcon in between. Dunn was the offensive rookie of the year with Tampa Bay, and was a three time Pro Bowl selection.  Beyond the field, Dunn won several citizenship awards, including winning the prestigious Walter Peyton Man of The Year Award.

In honor of his mother, Dunn began a program to build houses through his Home for the Holidays program as part  of his foundation Warrick Dunn Charities which helps single parent families attain home ownership through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity. "Warrick Dunn Charities has awarded millions in furnishings, food and other donations to single-parent families and children across the nation to combat poverty, hunger and ensure families have comfortable surroundings and basic necessities to improve their quality of life."











Warrick Dunn was a great football player, but perhaps he is even a greater individual.  Seminole Nation is very proud to have Warrick as one of our best players and representatives of our beloved University. Throughout his life, Dunn has exhibited the principles and values that honor the core beliefs of the Seminoles, perhaps a live illustration of the unconquered.

It is a thrill to have FSU and Tampa Bay standout Warrick Dunn among those in the Hall of BAHL.

JIMBO FISHER

For the Florida State faithful, it was most difficult to part ways with legendary football coach Bobby Bowden, who built not only the Florida State football program, but played a significant role in the growth of the university itself.  But for most, there was only one choice to follow Bowden's path, and that was Jimbo Fisher.

Fisher had a strong relationship with Terry Bowden, who Fisher played quarterback for and later coached with, ending up at Auburn together as part of the Tigers undefeated 1993 season.  Fisher would continue to polish his craft before becoming offensive coordinator under Bobby Bowden at FSU.  Fisher developed a keen ability to groom the quarterback position, but learned a great deal about team structure and leadership during a stint at LSU, where Fisher was offensive coordinator when the Bayou Tigers won the national title.

Fisher started strong at FSU, and while there were some growing pains, which included a couple of head scratching losses, a culture of winning was being built by Fisher.  If you would ever speak to Jimbo about what he calls the organization, you would promptly recognize that Fisher has complete control and confidence in his mission in developing young men in the pursuit of excellence. Nothing is left to chance in the development of the organization, and young men are held accountable to the team and themselves.  The team is a family, and this is not by coincidence.

When Fisher was introduced as head coach at FSU, he said "Empowered, confident athletes are winners. My goal is to get the structure, the staff and the support resources in place to facilitate a winning plan and get players into the structure and start effecting change. Now."  The grade in accomplishing that plan is A+.

Fisher quickly set the tone, and after losing four games in each of his first four seasons, the Seminole jumped up a few levels and won the 2013 National Championship with a victory of Auburn. In addition, quarterback Jameis Winston won the Heisman Trophy.  Before losing in the College Football Playoff to Oregon, the Seminoles has ran off a school record 29 game winning streak.

Fisher has returned Florida State to the national elite, with stellar recruiting as young men want to come and be a part of the working to achieve greatness.  Jimbo is a favorite of the FSU faithful, and he can remain parked in Tallahassee as long as he wishes.

Florida State head football coach Jimbo Fisher is welcomed into the Hall of BAHL.

ERIC CROUCH

Eric Crouch was the third Nebraska player to win the Heisman Trophy winning the coveted award in 2001 after a brilliant senior campaign which culminated in the 'Huskers losing to the Miami Hurricanes in The Orange Bowl.

The Omaha Millard North product compiled a 35-7 record as starting quarterback for Nebraska, and left left Nebraska in possession of 32 school records.  At the time, Crouch was one of just three quarterbacks in NCAA history rush for 3000 yards and pass for 4000 yards in a career.

Crouch broke top ranked Oklahoma's back on a reverse 41 yard touchdown catchpummeled a would be Iowa tackler on the way to paydirt and delivered a blow to Hall of Famer Ed Reed in a losing effort in The Orange Bowl.  But, Crouch really dazzled the faithful with a breathtaking touchdown run at Missouri, an integral part of the highlight reel that helps secure a Heisman.



Crouch remains in Nebraska and close to the program, doing work for FOX Sports and the Big Ten Network.  I had a chance to meet him in New York City on Heisman weekend one time, while he did not have the look of  an elite athlete, lest there be no doubt he is one of the best players in the storied Nebraska football history.

Crouch vs. Notre Dame
Crouch vs. OU/Getty image












BAHL Revere is pleased to induct Nebraska's Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Eric Crouch into the BAHL Hall of Fame.

CHRIS WEINKE


Chris Weinke came to Florida State an unusual way.   After originally signing a letter of intent to play football at Florida State out of after Cretin-Derham Hall High School in St. Paul, MN, Weinke ended up spending six seasons in the minor leagues with the Toronto Blue Jays.  Coach Bobby Bowden promised his scholarship would be honored if he decided to come, Weinke retired from the Blue Jays and arrived at FSU at the age of 25.

Weinke was the starting quarterback for Florida State in 1998-99.  After leading the Seminoles to a 9-1 record in 1998, Weinke was forced to sit due to a neck injury suffered late in the year.  Healthy, Weinke returned to lead the Seminoles to an undefeated season culminating with FSU winning it's second National Title with a 46-29 victory over Virginia Tech in the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans.


As president of the Seminole Club of Greater Orlando in 1999, I was able to attend this game, a game in which Weinke had a stellar performance.  Beyond winning the National Title and Heisman Trophy, Weinke left FSU holding records for the most passing yards and touchdowns in a career in compiling a 32-3 record as the starting quarterback.

Weinke had numerous plays which could compile a lengthy highlight reel, perhaps Weinke is best known for this backbreaking play against Clemson, deemed "The Play Fake".



Weinke played several years in the NFL most notably with the Carolina Panthers.  Since his retirement, Weinke has dabbled in many arenas and is now quarterbacks coach of the St. Louis Rams after being head coach at IMG Academy in Florida.

Florida State remains special to Chris Weinke, and he is no stranger to the program, attending many events and games while cheering on our beloved Seminoles.  Weinke is a very special player in the history of FSU football, and among the hearts of Seminole Nation.

Chris Weinke, Heisman Trophy winning quarterback of the Florida State Seminoles, is welcomed as part of the 2015 Hall of BAHL class.

Wednesday, June 10, 2015

An Appeasing Hamburglar?

McDonald's is America.

Born in the nostalgic fifties and booming into among America's most successful companies in part due to placement at exits along the newly installed Interstate system, McDonald's gave America consistently prepared hamburgers, french fries and milkshakes at affordable prices.

With gifts for children in specialized packages, it was a quick win win for the households of America.  In addition, founder Ray Kroc always utilized the success of McDonald's in various charitable forms, most notably the Ronald McDonald House's which offers a home away from home for families with serious ill children in various cities, including right here in Central Florida.

But times are tough for the company. Although the stock price has risen sharply over the decades, McDonald's (MCD:NYSE) has been churning sideways for about three years.   The company has been getting pummeled in the mainstream media, for producing food deemed unhealthy by the food police.  The attacks have been relentless, and sales have been affected.  In fact, McDonald's has announced it will discontinue releasing monthly comparable sales beginning this June, as it's global comparable sales have declined for 12 consecutive months.

Protesters routinely find the nearest McDonald's to march upon seeking higher wages, fueled on by Obama, the unions and the media.  The marching morons think flipping burgers is a job you can raise a family on, but the political leaders know better and are just using McDonald's as a punching bag to advance their progressive agenda.

Steve Easterbrook will take over as CEO after the "announced early retirement" of former CEO Don Thompson, who did not perform well for a variety of reasons.

The ad campaigns of recent years have been not been near historic standards, and the company has been trying to appease the members of the food police by altering the menu in hopes of oiling the squeaky wheel.

Appeasement always works so well, but with Michelle Obama having stated that Obama will make America change it's history and traditions, McDonald's may feel compelled to make moves to protect their history and traditions.

Enter Robert Gibbs, the smart aleck former Obama press secretary, who was the face of the administration and perhaps among the most hated people in America. Gibbs, who has been hired as Executive Vice President, Global Chief Communications Officer, otherwise known to the causal observer as go make the Obama administration leave us alone.

But maybe not, as Easterbrook was quoted as saying “Robert (Gibbs) and Silvia are both highly-respected, talented leaders who will bring a wealth of experience and outside perspective to McDonald’s as we build a more modern, progressive burger company.”

Rut row.

News flash to Mr. Easterbrook. Folks have differing definitions of progressive, although you may be oblivious to it all, the hiring of Mr. Gibbs signals McDonald's, like Levi Strauss before it, is ready to jump on board the progressive train carrying the likes of Stuart Chase and Barack Obama.

Many Americans are not coming aboard with you, and that will be a tragedy.  McDonald's has been representative of what America is all about, a integral cog in the history and traditions of America our anti-American president is feverishly working to change.

Although not currently a shareholder, I have held shares in the company most of my adult life having been enrolled in their dividend reinvestment program.  All they need to do is polish the product, make sure the stores are clean, get rid of the non-serious employees and pay a salary slightly above what the market dictates for those who recognize the opportunity at hand and by all means continue to make those great burgers, fries and shakes we all have enjoyed all our lives.

For those who deem you products unhealthy, they are not to be appeased, but rather told to fixate their taste buds elsewhere.  That would certainly include Obama and his know it all wife Michelle, and their wise ass mouthpiece Mr. Gibbs.

Monday, June 8, 2015

Devastation of the Family Home

In the field of economics, one of the most difficult items to estimate is the ripple effect associated with major events that significantly affect the economic and social welfare of a community. The recent housing crash, for which our economy is still reeling from, is a classic example.

In my estimation, the entire response from our federal government was in error, as government intervention took the place of free market capitalism to create devastating economic consequences which continue to this very day.  While some may conclude the government was attempting to help in a time of "crisis", I am reminded of another of the timeless quotes from Ronald Reagan: "The most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the government and I'm here to help".

 

The housing crisis established a house of cards, pun intended, where lending institutions gave mortgages to anyone with a pulse, packaged the loans into mortgage backed securities and sold them as A rated to investors.  With the leverage unsustainable, bank failures emerged and the devastation began.

Rather than letting the market cleanse itself out, where those who invested in error or without proper due diligence, or both, paid the price, the government initiated bailouts of the major lending institutions. These government investments in the banking sector have come with a heavy price for the lending institutions, including appraisal regulation that has significantly impaired the industry.

The government now has an embedded regulatory mechanism within the banking sector, and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac continue to run inefficiency, with these government sponsored enterprises possibly needing more bailouts.  The housing market, although now seemingly stabilized and improving slightly in some markets, remains a shell out itself.

Home ownership is at historically low levels, in large measure to stagnant wage growth, with the worker actually losing ground annually. Many former homeowners are joining the millennials, where a majority unable to purchase a home are forced to rent, pushing rent levels to historic highs.

Much of the government interaction in the aftermath of the potentially orchestrated housing crash has limited free market principles, prohibiting the market from returning to optimal health.  Perhaps it is part of the war the progressives have on suburbs, maybe a vehicle in the transformation of wealth or quite possibly it is Orwellian in that gave the government an a prime opportunity to seize control over a large portion of the economy, and the citizenry.

Most in the economic world who embraces free market principles knew the path of quantitative easing and government interaction and control in markets was most problematic. While we await the next crash, which we forecast to come right around the presidential election, the devastation the crash has left on families across the nation is troubling and sad.

Many feel the great American dream is no longer obtainable.  Without question, if you have yet to obtain wealth, the degree of difficulty in achieving it has risen sharply under President Obama due to the infiltration of government regulation and taxation.

It seems 99 Homes may focus on the trial and tribulation of a family whose life was turned upside down at the drop of a hat as the housing crisis placed a stranglehold on the US economy back in 2008.

My professional activities, involving residential real estate appraisal, rental property management and as collateral risk analyst have given me a front row seat throughout.  When 99 Homes hits theaters, I will be there to grab a front row seat.

Thursday, June 4, 2015

Catastrophic Consequences

As Ronald Reagan so eloquently quipped, "The trouble with our liberal friends is not that they're ignorant; it's just they know so much that isn't so".

A prime example of this can be seen in the following comments from President Obama earlier this week:

 

Obama is a fraud and speaks daily of things and accomplishments that are not so, but this takes the honors in being the biggest crock of crap he has ever spit out. Want evidence he is delusional?

Beyond Russia seizing territory and China building islands, see ISIS running roughshod across the middle east with not a care in the world regarding the consequences. Oh, that's right, since Obama is on their side, they will be heralded for hastening the caliphate and won't be facing any consequences.

The catastrophic consequences will be saved for those who seek a strong America, thanks to Obama's most unfortunate election.