Author: Fred Thomas, III

Thomas Reports was created in 2006. For over 30 years Fred Thomas, III developed a successful career in real estate financing, focused on consumer lending. He is a licensed broker (DRE 01097630) and has managed over two-thousand closed transactions. ThomasReports was created to weave writings and passions under one platform; Real Estate, History, Travel & Culture, Politics and Technology. In today's social media demands, Thomas' voice has been recognized as an official Influencer, Tester and Reviewer for international marketing organizations.

CUBA – Special Report, our recent visit

~ Fred Thomas, III ~ Leave a comment

Our trek to CUBA focused on two specific goals.  One, interview and gain insight into Dr. Esteban Morales Dominguez‘ work on race relations and two, interview officials from the Cuban baseball federation, specifically about the historic impact of the Negro Leagues and how they competed in Cuba way before Jackie Robinson made his major league debut.

I wore my 1947 Cuba National team jersey.  Many folk on the island asked where I got it from and if any were left?  Even when I got back to the U.S. the lad from Customs asked about it.  I told them, you can’t get this is CUBA, it is only available through my homie who owns BallerGear (Larchmont on Sunday’s).

This post will highlight a summary of the trip.  Documentation from the two topics is being edited and will be presented within several days in subsequent posts.

**A special note as this was not planned but the consequence of arriving in Cuba on November 25th took on a special meaning, as it was the one year anniversary of Fidel Castro’s death.  That is the reason we noticed tributes all over the country or at least places we visited.   You could feel the national spirit in the air.

For citizens of the United States going to Cuba and being able to navigate your journey is not for the faint of heart.  Of course, just about every other country of mankind already knows about the magic of the Caribbean’s largest country.  Coincidently our trek occurred at the beginning of tourist season which will go until March.  I did ask our host why it was from November to March and no longer?  The answer was after March, many tourists who are not used to tropical weather find it too uncomfortable or too hot!!

 

During my last visit in 2015 my dear friend Charles Boesan gave a great explanation of how so many people from other countries treasure their visit to Cuba.  It is something you have to see first-hand to fully appreciate but it does make you question the embargo and why some political leaders simply can’t muster the courage to address the issue?

Extend goodwill

This brings us to the issue of the administration of Barack Obama.  The majority of people I spoke to in Cuba have great respect and admiration of President Obama.  They speak with passion of his desire to “open up the country” so citizens from the U.S. could more freely visit the country.  His policies and subsequent visit in 2016 represented a critical achievement for him and represented tremendous pride for the people of Cuba.  Of course, there were those dissidents who were vocally critical of Obama’s gesture as even today they appear locked down in the Cold War ideology and view anything which shows the slightest gains of the country on the world stage as negative. Or they claim it infers the Castro regime will be viewed positively, therefore that is something they will never tolerate…….at least not for now.  Admittedly, the issue is complex so one way or another you either accept the progress or your don’t.

Make no mistake President Obama is not perfect and some feel he could have done more but the point is he made history simply by extending a hand of goodwill.

 

Some in Cuba view Trump as “the Grinch who stole Christmas”

Photographer: Kevin Dietsch/Pool via Bloomberg

 

Luckily for Cuba, tourism is huge and folk from other countries can’t wait for the plane to land.  As a matter of fact, I was corrected and told Mexico is the leading country, followed by Canada, then Spain, Europe, Italy, on and on.  Very few Americans, let alone Afro-Americans or even Belizeans are seen in Cuba BUT Judith and I were treated with great welcome and respect as the people displayed genuine intrigue and warmth.

Let me be clear – as much as I and others may appreciate visiting Cuba, it simply is not for everybody.  The sacrifices can be challenging and make you wonder why in the world would you put yourself through the ordeal?  If you are one of those or you have a “high maintenance” personality my advice is to go to other countries where issues are hidden and all you see are the glistening waters, the pampering and all of the attention you don’t mind paying for.  I did run into a few folk (from the U.S.) who couldn’t wait to leave the island.  But after some conversation with them I honestly would assess their problems stemmed from lack of preparation or unreasonable expectations.

 

Cubans we spoke to are very eager to find out about Americans.  They feel Trump’s actions have pulled the rug from under them as the gestures executed by the Obama administration wet their appetite of enormous possibilities.  They view actions by Trump as a big step in the wrong direction or going back to the cold war environment.  Further, it’s not about liking Obama or disliking Trump but more about common sense.  Through his actions Obama opened dialogue and the opportunity to develop relationships.  Trump’s behavior is consistent in showing us his style and his ideology.   He may think his rise to political power is due to his business acumen but some would point to his manipulation of people’s fears or his quest to divide or otherwise create roadblocks for people to unite.  His moniker of “Make America Great Again” is viewed as a euphemism or hustle to project an us versus them mentality, and surprisingly many people agree with him!  So, it’s one thing to attempt to dismantle anything positive the Obama administration achieved, it’s another thing to use policies to affect unity.

 

As a matter of fact, with the recent update of the travel restrictions as well as the State Department issuing a travel warning, many who have yearned to finally visit Cuba feel their dreams have vanished, at least temporarily.  Of course, Treasury Department still allows those who fall within legitimate categories to visit Cuba.  However, confusion is still in the air and there is lots of misinformation.  Incidentally about two weeks prior to our scheduled trip I received an email from our host with a tone of consternation as they felt we would have to cancel our trip.

Of course, the rest is history as our trip was successful and we had absolutely no issues going to Cuba or returning back to the United States.

Preparation

This is shared from our experience.  Yours may be exactly the same or it may be different.

  • Verify your trip meets guidelines issued by Treasury Department
  • Itinerary
  • Passport
  • Travel Visa
  • Housing
  • Money
  • Health Insurance
  • Departure Tax

Many people I speak to who are U.S. citizens are excited about visiting Cuba.  Yes, they should be excited but one must understand, they need a purpose?  In other words what is your motivation to visit Cuba?  It surely can’t be that of a tourist or to go check out the beaches, smoke cigars or lounge around drinking rum!  Cuba has its issues and for many the sight of the buildings or the inconveniences you deal with are more than even the Trump administration’s discouragement.  However, for the bold, the few that don’t necessarily need to travel in a pack, or those who don’t judge folk from material possessions will appreciate the resilience of the people of Cuba.  The bottom-line is if you have the spirit to accept folk where they are at and truly want to explore how they navigate through every day life, then you will have a great experience.

 

Once you decide or make a commitment to visit Cuba my best tip is to do yourself a favor a do a little homework on CUBA.  Get a grasp on the history, the places you will stay as well as the requirements necessary for a successful trip.

 

A POINTER – WHILE THE POLICIES FOR CITIZENS OF THE UNITED STATES ARE BASIC AND VERY CLEAR, KEEP IN MIND PROCESSES MAY CHANGE FROM TIME TO TIME SO THE KEY IS IF IN DOUBT ASK QUESTIONS BUT MAKE SURE THE RESPONSE IS FROM AN AUTHORITIVE SOURCE.

 

  • Verify you meet the approved categories as mandated by the Treasury Department.

 

Air travel.  We flew Alaska Airlines and to our amazement was able to secure a NONSTOP flight from LAX – 5 ½ hours at a price that was better than a “Black Friday” special.

Alaska airline has special line for CUBA

sadly – as of January 5, 2018 Alaska Airlines will cease flights to Havana.

  • Itinerary – Part of the Treasury Department guidelines is you must have a specific reason to visit.  So, word to the wise, take a couple of minutes and prepare a bullet-proof itinerary or schedule.  AND, it should be part of the documentation you have with you at all times.  I had mine on my smart phone.  Never had to show anything to anybody………but had it ready if needed.

 

 

Documents

 

  • Passport – you need a valid passport.  One other critical notation.  In the past while you must present your passport, it was not stamped by Cuba customs.  Instead, they stamped your travel visa.  HOWEVER, this time was different.  Upon entering CUBA, they stamped my travel visa and I didn’t notice it at the time but when we departed and presented our documents at customs and received my passport, I noticed they kept the travel visa but the passport was stamped.

 

  • Travel Visa – this is the document you need to enter Cuba and it must be on you at all times.   Now, I got snake bit as the initial plan was to obtain from the Cuba Embassy in D.C. (I happen to be in DC in September and stopped by the Consulate and received specs on what documents I needed as well as the $50.  Well, we never received.  No worries, on a worse case basis your airline or departing airport will have a legitimate organization which will sell you a travel visa, ON THE SPOT.  In our case, once we checked in at Alaska airlines, they simply pointed us to the kiosk which had staff from Cuba Travel Services and the fee was $100.  The give you a folder with your travel visa.  They instruct you to write your name, passport, info, etc. and have ready to present once you arrive in CUBA.  One more point and I don’t know the specific answer………….it appears where you fly from will determine the cost of your travel visa because the closer you are to CUBA may result in a reduced fee.  Anyway, ours was $100 and yes, Cuba Travel Services accepts payment via credit card.
Cuba Travel Services was on site and after payment you are given pouch which includes your visa. You complete it before you arrive to Cuba. Cost $100

 

Housing

 

** see footnote at bottom of post regarding casa particulares

I get questions all of the time from those in the United States who have never visited Cuba and have this grand illusion they are going to nab a five-star hotel and get treated to spas, room service, etc.   Cuba has some great hotels and if your idea is paying $300-$400 per night, you probably should pass on going?  Here’s why, at least from my opinion.  Cuba has tremendous architecture and buildings which make for a unique sight.  As for housing, in addition to hotels, there are hostels, airBnB and then Casa Particulares.  To be specific hostels, airBnB and Casa Particulares could be lumped into one category as for the most part they are private residences.  I prefer legitimate Casa Particulares (staying in someone’s private home where they have transformed a room or two or an area to rent out).  The owner’s must obtain a license and you will notice it on the front of their building.  Anyway, by staying at a Casa Particulares instead of properties which are more corporate, you are having a direct positive financial impact on the family.  The $20 – $40 per night you are making may appear like a steal to you, and yes it is.  But, in Cuba the average salary is $30-$40 per month but be careful not to assume the people are “dying on the vine.”    You just have to understand their economic system.  Anyway, the fee you pay goes a long way to allow the family more financial freedom, plus it is your opportunity to engage the people directly.  So, if you’re not a people person or don’t care about understanding their culture, trek down to the hotel and pay $300.  Otherwise, the better tip is find a legit Casa Particulares as it will be one of the best investments you will make.   Also, many properties have private access with a key so you aren’t bugging the family when you enter or leave.

There are many sites which advertise Casas, so do your homework and ask questions.  Parts of  Cuba are very urban and look like a war zone and other parts are very rural, yet people reside there and have acceptable accommodations.  Further, I have seen no homelessness or beggars and I am sure they are there but that is yet another stark reality which will make you appreciate the resilience of the people.

For this trip I felt like I hit the jackpot!  In setting up the trip and corresponding with Professor Dominguez, he offered us to stay at his place as his wife operates a licensed casa Particulares.  This allowed us to spend more time interviewing him about his work without the hassle of traveling to a set appointment..

 

THIS IS OUR CASA PARTICULARES IN OLD HAVANA

upon arriving in Havana, our host prepared an outstanding traditional Cuban dinner. Rice and Black Bean Soup, Roasted Pork, Casava, Salad and desert (the name escapes me).
This is our balcony. Katia asked us to bring a U.S. flag as she likes each visitor to showcase their country
bathroom – small but functional and clean.
shower
kitchen never had to use.
street scene – park directly across the street
Our room was functional and was more like a suite as it had a couch and room to stretch out.
This is the kitchen area outside the rooms.
Look for the little anchor sign on your Casa. That is your proof the property is properly registered.
View from our third floor balcony. The Capitol was about 2 kilometers to the north.
This is our Casa Particulares. It has three floors and each owner owns one floor. We were on the third flood. No elevators but no worries – great exercise.
Our Casa had two patios. Very quaint.
Our patio had a hammock facing the street so here is Judith catching a break.

`

THIS IS OUR CASA PARTICULARES IN TRINIDAD.

Very affordable at $24 per night.

Bath – very functional and clean

Our host Julio
Julio runs the Casa business with his grandmother and girlfriend. Great host, very accomodating.
saying good-bye

Transportation

 

Usually when I travel I love the independence of having my own car.  CUBA is the exception.  You are not in the United States or whatever country you may be coming from so be warned CUBA laws are different and I don’t want to be like the three UCLA basketball players relying on Trump to get us out!!!!

With 11 million plus folk, CUBA is vast and once there you will immediately understand why it is the largest country in the Caribbean.  Anyway, busing or taxi is the way to go.  Of course, for us, we don’t mind walking and did lots of it.  The benefit was getting some great exercise but more important it allowed us to see some sites, neighborhoods you surely would not otherwise be able to see.  I know folk who won’t take the bus on a regular basis here in California but if you are going to Cuba and truly want to meet the people taking the BUS IS THE WAY TO GO.  The trick is to stay alert, oh and to our surprise the bus system goes 24 hours (in the major cities).

Transportation cost can be dicey, as it is assumed you know about the money.  Buses take about 40 pesos or 10 cents, while taxi vary from 25 cents to 1 dollar but the key is to ask your host for pointers on how to navigate transportation.  Also, if you are traveling through the country you will be on a luxury bus. So, as an example our trip from Havana to Trinidad, which was a 7-hour journey ONE WAY but went through 4 key cities/communities cost $50 round trip – what a deal.

 

Money

 

In Cuba there are two currencies – 1.  Convertible Pesos (CUC), equals one dollar to one CUC and 2.  Pesos or national money which equals 24 to 1, so one CUC = 24 pesos.  So, as an example you will see a bottle of coco-cola for 35, which is a little more than 1 peso.

In Cuba many businesses, especially those known as tourist spots will have most items marked in CUC or the higher currency, so you really have to pay attention and perhaps change your plans to try to patronize or spend money at the local or independent businesses because they are for local folk which results in you being able to spend CUPS (24 to 1).  Makes sense????  If not, contact me.

 

Obtaining Cuba currency.  There is no silver bullet as whether you transfer money at the airport, at the Cadeca, with a private person, the hotel, etc. the U.S. dollar gets hammered………. but your options are limited.  Anyway, expect a penalty of 15 cents for every dollar, so you once you trade your dollar you walk away with 85 cents.  It is what it is!!!!  But then again, you’re paying less than $50 per day for housing, less than a couple of bucks for transportation, less than $10 for food etc.  Oh, for those cigar smokers or rum drinkers, they are very affordable as a matter of fact rum is less than the cost of water!!

Health Insurance

Health Insurance is a requirement for U.S. citizens entering Cuba.  You can purchase upon arriving OR, as in our case it was part of our travel fee.

Departure Tax

AFTER MAY 1st, 2015:

*** NEW PROCEDURE ***
Since May 1, 2015 the Cuban Departure Tax will no longer be paid at destination. It should be included in the price of your trip when buying a flight-only or vacation package to Cuba, check with you travel agent, carrier or tour operator.`  The departure tax was included in our airline ticket.

Food 

Cuban food is very accessible.  For some, you will love the street food.  Bottled water is readily available.  Then again some may opt to go to one of the many restaurants.  Seafood is plentiful.  The beef comes from Canada.  Poultry comes from the U.S., so it depends on what you are looking for but the key is you will not starve.  As an example, I got a piece of fried chicken for 1 CUC.  We had a full lobster dinner with 2 drinks and the price was 14 CUCS.  A ham and cheese sandwich are 1 CUC.  The key is prices vary based on where you are at but I can’t stress, the more flexible you are……. the better experience you will have.

 

Casa Particulares Old Havana – breakfast
the famous Coppelia Ice Cream venue
Casa Particulares in Trinidad – great breakfast
Pina Colada and traditional Ham & Cheese
Cuban espresso anyone?

Internet

I can’t stress this……DO YOUR RESEARCH and do not fall for the B.S.  Internet is available in Cuba.  Then again, I doubt seriously you travel to CUBA to lay on the internet all day…….but the point is you do have access.

There are hot spots in most of the major areas.  In addition you can purchase internet access cards at the major hotels (Nacional Hotel of Cuba and Habana Libre Hotel) which in my case was $4.50 for 1 hour.  May seem pricey……but well worth it because you are merely checking in or doing something specific, not laying on-line for hours at a time.

135-IMG_4468

 

ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION

PHOTOS

Photo Gallery – CUBA 2017 – People

Photo Gallery – CUBA 2017 – Snapshot, Sights & Scenes

Photo Gallery – CUBA 2017 – Food & Beverages

Photo Gallery – CUBA 2017 – Casa Particulares

Photo Gallery – CUBA 2017 – Autos

Photo Gallery – CUBA 2017 – Sites

VIDEOS

 

 

Websites

Judith & Fred’s Cuban Blog

Documentaries

For those visiting Cuba for the first time or if you haven’t been in a while, I would highly recommend you do yourself a favor and research the country so that you are properly informed, at at minimum gain a perspective of what you are about to discover.

Upon returning and unpacking as well as editing my footage, I came across two excellent pieces of information which you may find helpful

“The Cuba Libre Story” and “Cuba and the Cameraman.”

The Cuba Libre Story reminds me of the iconic Eyes on the Prize documentary which covered the civil rights struggles of African-Americans.  Cuba Libre has a similar format as there are eight videos which provide a great historical snapshot of Cuba’s history up to 2015.

 

Cuba and the Camera chronicles journalist Jon Alpert’s visits to Cuba and cover a forty year period but brings you up to the death of Fidel.

 

Footnotes

Casa particulares

I post the casa particulares I have stayed at or know about on TripAdvisor.  Unfortunately they do not allow postings for many sites.  I don’t know the exact answer but I think it has to do with owners needing to pay a fee/subscription or something?

Havana

hostalKhabana (Katia Dominguez)

  • (53) 78786495
  • michel@cubarte.cult.cu
  • Ayesteran 24 (between Maloja and Carlos III)
  • easy to get to bus stop is across the street or within 2 blocks plus easy access for taxi’s
  • has large room and small room
  • property is on third floor – no elevators
  • upon request will prepare meals
  • you are provided keys so you have independent access
  • Cost is very affordable – expect $25 per night
  • bathroom is very functional and has shower

Casa Particulares Mariela (Mariela Lopez)

  • (53)78353348
  • mariela_1056@yahoo.es
  • Calle 19 #1060 – e/12 y 14 (Vedado)
  • easy to get to.  in between avenida 21 & avenida 23
  • Room is apartment – downstairs/upstairs – very functional
  • upon request will prepare meals
  • you are provided keys so you have independent access
  • Cost is very affordable – expect $35 per night
  • bathroom is very functional and has shower

Trinidad

Casa Katiuska (ask for Jose Julio)

  • (53) 52711385
  • katiuskatrinidad@yahoo.es
  • Frank Pais #36
  • easy to get to, near the main part of Trinidad
  • Has several rooms – very functional
  • great patio
  • upon request will prepare meals
  • you are provided keys so you have independent access
  • Cost is very affordable – expect $25 per night
  • bathroom is very functional and has shower

 

This trek could not be completed if not for the support and love from my wife Judith, who also worked as research assistant on this project.  Also, Dr. Esteban Morales Dominguez never wavered from our initial contact in 2015 to agree to allow us to interview him regarding his work.  He and his wife, Katia were outstanding host.  Also, it must be noted our host in Trinidad; Jose Julio, his grandmother Eulalia and his girlfriend Daritza were simply outstanding in making us feel right at home.

Finally, thanks to Charles, Lani, Tanisha and Tiffany as well as others for encouraging us to make this trip and to complete this important work.

  1.  The interview including video regarding our historic discussion with   Professor Esteban Morales Dominguez will be posted in a few days.
  2.  Our interview and video regarding the discussion with the Masters   Basketball team and other critical issues about our visit will be posted in   a  few days.

Richard Cordray:  Partisan politics or service to the people?

~ Fred Thomas, III ~ Leave a comment

U.S. President Barack Obama nominates Richard Cordray a former attorney general of Ohio to lead the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau as Elizabeth Warren, the Obama administration adviser who is setting up the new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, listens during an announcement at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Monday, July 18, 2011. Photographer: Joshua Roberts/Bloomberg

If you thought president Barack Obama was a person the Republican party despised, you are correct.  Or, in addition to him, you may have noticed that Hillary Clinton and Elizabeth Warren have also gotten in the craw of the party?   And, in Warren’s case, even Donald Trump takes great glee to call her out of her name.  If this is so, you may have missed the lad by the name of Richard Cordray who was selected the first official director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, after Warren set up the frame-work and subsequently trekked back to Massachusetts to reclaim Ted Kennedy’s Senate seat.

 

Cordray has caused much consternation for the Republicans.  You would think the remnants of the 2008 financial meltdown was only felt by those who claimed not to be Republicans (i.e., Democrats, Independents, Green Party, etc.)?  Cordray is the director of the Consumer Protection Financial Bureau (CFPB).  Created out of the Dodd-Frank legislation designed to offer consumer protection from banks and those in the financial industry, their mandate was simple.  Yet, many and particularly those who identify as Republican policy makers have gone to great measures to reduce the agency’s effectiveness and have been vocal that such protection is no longer needed.  It’s the same example, anything the other team did, especially if named Obama must be dismantled or vilified as ineffective.

Fret no more!  Today Richard Cordray announced he is stepping down from the CFPB and plans to leave by the end of this month.  He has done a remarkable job to “steady the ship” in some very turbulent political waters.  His eyes are laser-focused on moving back to Ohio and to throw his name in the hat for the run of the Governor’s race.

“The new director of the CFPB must be someone with a track record of protecting consumers and holding financial firms responsible when they cheat people. This is no place for another Trump-appointed industry hack.”   Elizabeth Warren

Since the director of the CFPB is an appointed position, it will be interesting who the Trump administration appoints or even if they feel bold enough to try to eliminate the agency altogether?    It’s one thing to be partisan, as if there is only one way to do things, it’s another to use government as a tool to protect the people and that is all of the people, especially those who are not in your party.

Review: Roman J. Israel, esq – Symposium & Discussion

~ Fred Thomas, III ~ Leave a comment

Roman J. Israel, Esq. is a dramatic thriller set in the underbelly of the overburdened Los Angeles criminal court system. Denzel Washington stars as a driven, idealistic defense attorney whose life is upended when a turbulent series of events challenge the activism that has defined his career. Colin Farrell costars as the ambitious, monied lawyer who recruits Roman to his firm.

[Leimert Park, CA]  Known as the cultural heartbeat of the African-American community Leimert Park was full of energy as SONY Pictures, the African-American Film Critics Association and the Urban Issues Forum hosted a symposium and discussion on the upcoming movie Roman J. Israel, esg.  Last night a standing room only crowd squeezed in the iconic Regency West supper club to hear first hand why this movie is a must-see.

“You have lots of great civil rights attorney’s but they are not the same as civil rights activist.”  Jasmyne Cannick.

Led by AAFCA president Gil Robertson the panel was allowed to stretch out and gave great examples of current day activism in Los Angeles.  The panelists were social critic and political commentator Jasmyne Cannick;  the film’s director and producer Dan Gilroy; Professor of African-American studies and noted historian of activism in Los Angeles, Dr. Anthony Samad and noted community activist attorney Nana Gyamfi.

Asked about what motivated him to create the film, director Gilroy stated he is a “child of the 60’s” who grew up in a very liberal-minded family.  He noted the impact of the civil rights movement and how he came to appreciate the activist attorney’s who worked during that period even up until now.  “The issues never stop,” mentioned Gilroy.  He spoke how the character portrayed in the movie had a unique personality and once he showed the screen play to lead actor Denzel Washington the rest is history.  Washington played a critical role in developing the film and once the movie “Fences” was completed he gave his full energy in helping Gilroy bring the movie to the big screen.  Screening is set with a special engagement on November 17th in Los Angeles and New York.

The film is set in Los Angeles during the ’70’s and is one you will enjoy.  Coincidently, coming out of the civil rights movement many students moving on to college were motivated to study law.  A good crop were led to become proficient as “people’s law” attorney’s with the aspiration to bring justice to all of those who were underserved or victims of the criminal justice system.  Like the movie character Israel, they weren’t the most flashy in appearance but were extraordinary in understanding the law and how it could benefit the clients who sought them out.  Israel’s character also reminds you of the work such as James Bell who has built a stellar legal career dealing with the injustices of youth.

Review: Ta-Nehisi Coates “We Were Eight Years in Power – An American Tragedy”

~ Fred Thomas, III ~ Leave a comment

Ta-Nehisi Coates “We Were Eight Years in Power – An American Tragedy” is a must read for those who desire to stay informed in our current environment.

CLICK PHOTO ABOVE TO VIEW ENTIRE VIDEO.  (L-R), Ta-Nehisi Coates, author and national correspondent for The Atlantic, and moderator Michele Norris, freelance journalist and author, participate in The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) in Washington, DC hosted “A Conversation with Ta-Nehisi Coates: We Were Eight Years in Power”, on Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2017. (Photo by Cheriss May/NurPhoto)

“We Were Eight Years in Power” showcases Coates’ voice who is a Gen X’r but offers credible perspectives as seen through the African-American lens, or at least from those such as his. The book weaves eight essays and demonstrates a new thought of how our world is changing. The notion of Barack Obama running for president, let alone thinking he could get elected seemed like a lark, if not an impossible reality to so many. Yet, people like Coates and later generations such as millennial’s write with pride as Obama defied the odds to become President and successfully completed two terms. Starting as a Blogger, Coates joined the team at the Atlantic and in a short period has taken off.

The content of the book takes you on a journey of historic reality. Some may be troubled from how Coates portrays racism and how it has shaped our culture. He admits there has been progress but while so many dismiss the gains as we are “so better off,” his point is to remind you of the vestiges created from the notion of using race as a benchmark.

Regardless of whether you agree with some of Coates perspectives or not, the book is chalk-full of personal examples and other documented facts which allow you to better appreciate his writing style. He is unapologetic and reminds you how African-American’s have risen to tremendous levels of success, despite the barriers of how life is conducted in the United States.

Through his credibility as a journalist/writer he was given the opportunity to be in the company of Barack Obama. The first meeting morphed into a relationship where then president Obama invited him to the White House for more robust discussion centered around race and progress. Coates writes how much he treasured the invite and subsequent relationship.

The chapter “My President is Black” came from an essay which received international acclaim. Despite your feelings of Barack Obama, Coates allows you to better understand the rise and how he and first lady Michelle took the notion of being the first African-American president with pride and conducted themselves impeccably.

As this review is being written, Coates is concluding his book tour. Also, the recent elections of November 7, 2017 which brought a solid rebuke to Donald Trump, his politics and the rhetoric he spews is a point Coates makes, still in disbelief the voting public elected him as the 45th president is very interesting. The book references this point with a unique twist. Coates brings it home by helping the reader understand the dilemma and pressures Obama had to contend while, while Trump with just the reality of being a “white man” desiring to be president never had to deal with the continuousness. His primary issue was brought on by his own actions, not from systemic racism.

Coates admits not trying to be a “voice” for people or causes, but through his writing and how he has penned this book you quickly are thought to elevate him to a credible voice, which will be prominent for years to come.

The book which is a tad under 400 pages is a quick read. The good news is each chapter is its own separate essay and does a very good job of referencing how Coates saw things during the eight years of Barack Obama’s presidency. It is a worthy investment for your library, especially if part of your frequent communication is on politics and race, and you truly desire a different perspective.

New Travel to Cuba Guidelines Announced

~ Fred Thomas, III ~ Leave a comment

[Washington, D.C.] Updated regulations for U.S. citizens traveling to Cuba to be effective Thursday, November 9, 2017

** It is important to note that those who have already made legitimate travel arrangements prior to November 9th, and fall within the categories of travel will not be negatively impacted by the updated regulations.

The Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is amending the Cuban Assets Control Regulations to implement the National Security Presidential Memorandum (NSPM), “Strengthening the Policy of the United States Toward Cuba,” signed by the President on June 16, 2017. These amendments implement changes to the authorizations for travel to Cuba and related transactions and restrict certain financial transactions. These
amendments also implement certain technical and conforming changes.

 

Click here for the FAQ’s on the updated guidelines.

Part of the irritation for many who applauded the Obama administration’s common sense approach of offering hope in establishing communication with Cuba, is to see Donald Trump and his administration hell-bent on trying to dismantle anything viewed positively by Obama, with very little regard to the desires of the american people.

“I think overall it’s certainly a step backwards.  It’s bad for U.S. companies. It’s bad for U.S. travelers.” Collin Laverty, president of Cuba Educational Travel

Janet Yellen:  time to move on

~ Fred Thomas, III ~ Leave a comment

Today, Donald Trump appointed Jerome Powell as the next chair of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve system (Fed) replacing Janet Yellen.  The announcement was expected as Powell must now prepare himself to go through the gauntlet called confirmation.  Since he is already part of the board there should be no surprises and he is expected to be in place when Yellen’s term ends in February.

“I congratulate my colleague Jay Powell on his nomination to be Chairman of the Federal Reserve Board. Jay’s long and distinguished career has been marked by dedicated public service and seriousness of purpose. I am confident in his deep commitment to carrying out the vital public mission of the Federal Reserve. I am committed to working with him to ensure a smooth transition.” Janet Yellen, 11/2/17

 

Yellen was appointed as chair by President Barack Obama in 2014 and her term officially ends February 3, 2018.

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Prior to taking over the chair’s functions she was second in command under then Fed chair Ben Bernanke.   Many in the financial sector applaud her tenure as being a steady force in guiding the United States monetary policy.  Even though the position is supposed to be non-partisan, her primary criticism came from those on the opposite side of President Obama who took fault with anything and everything he proposed.  Yet, like most things history has the final say and the economy is in much better shape as she exits – stage left!

Not fake news

Her critics and several others have short memories or blatant amnesia as they forget about a decade ago, the United States economic condition was becoming quite perilous and eventually exploded in 2008 resulting in hardships for millions of citizens and people around the globe.  It was through focus and commitment that Bernanke and his team as well as the leadership of President Obama who accepted the daunting task of stabilizing the markets.  The rest is history and the residual effect is an economy which has regained its footing, including a stock market which has grown to unprecedented levels.

Fed rate remains unchanged

Yesterday the Fed’s Monetary Committee met and decided to maintain the fed discount rate, although it is still projected to increase before the end of the year.  The concern conveyed by members was acknowledgment the economy is moving is a positive direction.

As Yellen is preparing to move on the one concern being voiced is the GOP’s proposed tax reform bill.  Monetary policy is a methodical process and it takes extreme discipline to not allow partisan politics to be the guiding force to ensure normalization.

 

“That task could be complicated  by the GOP plan to inject huge stimulus into an already-healthy economy. Doing so may force the Fed to more aggressively raise rates to prevent the economy from overheating. “

Donald Trump:  George Papadopoulos who?

~ Fred Thomas, III ~ Leave a comment

“You can fool some of the people some of the time, but you can’t fool all of the people all of the time.”

George Papadopoulos v united states

Donald Trump portrays himself as a prolific successful business person.  He is known by his bombasity, arrogance, bullying and otherwise keen on convincing anyone who comes in contact with him that his faults are few, if any.   He has claimed to only associating with the smartest people, going to the best schools, having the best luck, on and on.  Those who support him maintain he is simply misunderstood and his gift is what this country needs to move forward.  Those who do not support him, can’t understand why the supporters can’t see the obvious?

 

While many pleaded for caution as he announced his run for the presidency, there were more who grew frustrated with government and the politicians who operated within it.  Thus, as Trump ran a Boston on the field of candidates of the GOP primary, the result was successfully high-jacking the party by becoming their leader.  His personality convinced more than a handful of voters that he would provide the type of leadership they were desperate for.  His bottom line proclamation to his supporters was it was now or never!  The rest is history.

Sometimes it’s best to keep your mouth shut!

Another interesting thing about Donald Trump is his boastful remarks.  Unfortunately words do matter and in his case they have proven to be a thorn in his side.  Yet, he talks and tweets as if in some type of robotic craze, then gets upset when people challenge the very remarks which came from him.

You may recall during the presidential campaign of 2016, Trump boasted with great gravitas how the professional politicians; particularly Hillary Clinton operated with an army of staff?  The contrast that he offered was that his team consisted of a fraction of his opponents.  He promised he knew what he was doing and when questioned on the number of staff operating his campaign, he boasted one of his favorite phrases, “trust me!”

 

Can he be a great guy and a liar at the same time?

 

This brings us to the Papadopoulos connection.        Some have intimated the entire Russia issue would be a non-issue, if not for Donald Trump commenting about it during the campaign.  There is no crime in meeting with Russia.  The problem Trump finds himself in is because he professed a blanket denial of having ANY connection!  How hard would it have been just to say, “sure, I have connections……? what’s the big deal?”

 

During the course of the past eighteen months, Trump and his supporters have insisted the entire Russia issue is ridiculous and only used as a disguise to block him from successfully executing his agenda.  Despite evidence to the contrary, Trump has dispensed an army of supporters who frequent the media airwaves with the core objective to dismiss the entire issue as nonsense.  In reviewing some of their comments you feel as if they have taken a “blood oath” in promising never to agree to obvious contradictions, especially when the topic is Trump and his actions.

 

The sin of arrogance

One part of an arrogant personality is attempting to exude confidence and projecting knowing more than most.  It is nothing wrong with this trait, as long as it is truth.  It becomes a big problem when it is clear the person is being dishonest and merely speaking to speak, as if the sound of their voice will overwhelm any common sense.

 

Part of Trump’s behavior is never admitting “you don’t know” as perhaps in his mind that shows a sign of weakness?  The irony is it is absolutely nothing wrong to state “you don’t know, if in fact you don’t know,” especially if asked a question.

The Washington Post Editorial Board Meeting

It was March 2016 and Trump’s popularity was steamrolling through the nation.  He met with the Washington Post editorial board and for some bizarre reason belted out the name of George Papadopoulos.  As a matter of fact, if you are even concerned, go back and listen to the audio and you will conclude he hesitated when the question was posed, yet felt he had to provide something so among other names Papadopoulos was mentioned as a key part of Trump’s team.  The words came from Trump’s mouth.

The transcript of the interview shows Post Publisher Fred Ryan Jr. saying to Trump, “We’ve heard you’re going to be announcing your foreign policy team shortly. … Any you can share with us?”
Trump responds in part, “Well, I hadn’t thought of doing it, but if you want I can give you some of the names … Walid Phares, who you probably know, Ph.D., adviser to the House of Representatives caucus, and counter-terrorism expert; Carter Page, Ph.D; George Papadopoulos, he’s an energy and oil consultant, excellent guy; the Honorable Joe Schmitz, [former] inspector general at the Department of Defense; [retired] Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg; and I have quite a few more.”

Yet, now that the Mueller probe has finally started unleashing names of those accused of wrongdoing, Trump has insisted Papadopoulos is a nobody.  He has insisted he didn’t know who in the hell Papadopoulos is, yet can’t explain why he volunteered his name to the Washington Post in the first place!.

The October 31st tweet

Donald J. Trump‏Verified account @realDonaldTrump

More

….came to the campaign. Few people knew the young, low level volunteer named George, who has already proven to be a liar. Check the DEMS!

 

What do Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Bagdad Bob have in common?

When the Papadopoulos news broke Trump demanded Sarah Huckabee Sanders face the press and insist not only was Papadopoulos a nobody and a liar but that his involvement had nothing to do with the Trump campaign?

Some of you may remember the infamous Bagdad Bob who swore Iraq was not being attacked – despite the obvious

Unfortunately, however you try to slice it, the facts are Papadopoulos pleaded guilty to his behavior and the indictment highlights more than enough information for a reasonable person to conclude indeed his actions were at the heart of the campaign and specifically dealt with an attempt to connect it with Russia.  Of course, those who are not happy of Mueller’s indictment of Papadopoulos are very quick to offer the red-herring about Hillary Clinton and the uranium deal, or for allegedly paying for the Trump dossier, or anything which will divert your attention to the real issue; the serious indictment of Papadopoulos.

 

Papadopoulos presents a problem.  While he may in fact was just a motely volunteer, his overzealousness caught the attention of leadership within the campaign.  As the fledgling team bragged their frugal operation at the same time they embraced Papadopoulos and what he had to offer.  Interestingly many of them are perhaps a bit fidgety, thus who knows how many will have federal marshals’ contacting them.  Only time will tell what the impact will conclude and whether Donald Trump and his supporters will come to accept what most others already know; his campaign sought support from the Russians.

This week’s news could result what some have insisted – the entire Mueller investigation is a big “NOTHING BURGER.”  At the opposite end of the spectrum, social media has already projected a different conclusion in this “Russia with Love” clip.

Mortgage rates jump on speculation of a tax deal

~ Fred Thomas, III ~ Leave a comment

It was in the middle of July when mortgage rates were at 4%.  Based on yesterday’s mortgage rate survey the benchmark 30 years mortgage jumped six basis points in week over week reporting and came in at 3.960%.  Most know rate movement is cyclical so the increase must be viewed  based on trends not as an isolated incident.

Industry experts attributed the jump to the increase of the yields on the 10-year Treasury bond, which jumped nearly 10 basis points.  The 10-year bond is the primary indices which affect movement on the 30-year mortgage.

 

The markets reacted based on anticipation that a tax deal may be accomplished?  Also, yesterday the Senate passed procedural regulations  known as a budget resolution making it a bit easier for a deal to be reached.   If things work out as projected, it would mark a key win for the Trump administration which has been bogged down since taking office by not being able to tout any legislative victories.

 

In the meantime, homeowners who are purchasing a property or attempting to refinance their existing mortgage are gauging rates to make sure their budgets are not negatively impacted.

Here is a snapshot of this week’s rates:

October 26, 2017

30-Yr FRM 15-Yr FRM 5/1-Yr ARM
Average Rates 3.94% 3.25% 3.21%
Fees & Points 0.5 0.5 0.4
Margin N/A N/A 2.74

The Freddie Mac rate survey is published every Thursday.  It is an industry standard and used to gauge mortgage movement.

Justin Turner 29 Years to the date

~ Fred Thomas, III ~ Leave a comment

[Chavez Ravine]   Unless you were in a coma, don’t read/view/listen to the news or just can’t stand the game of baseball or you are shaking your head in disbelief that people would waste valuable time to attend/view a game which took nearly 4 hours…………you missed the Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner hitting a walk-off (the home team’s last at-bat) hitting a historic home run off Chicago Cubs and well-traveled reliever John Lackey to win the game.

The game is still just a game but the surreal comparison when analyzing Turner’s home run is it just so happened to be 29 years to the date when Kirk Gibson marched into the annals of sports history with his monumental blast which led the Dodgers to their World Series Crown.  Coincidently, that is why Dodger fans are thirsty and hopeful that Turner’s home run is a sign that they may finally claim another World Series trophy.

To keep Turner’s feat into perspective, yes it was a blast but this is just the second round of the playoffs or the NLCS (the National League Champion Series) and the win put the Dodgers up two games to none.  However, they must win four games to claim the seven game series and the defending World Series champs, the Cubs could still rally and knock the Dodgers out?

Here is the extended clip of Justin Turner’s blast which starts with Chris Taylor’s at-bat

Ekersley, shocked to his toes!! Vin Scully

This is the comparison clip and features the full footage of Kirk Gibson’s home start.  The footage starts with Mike Davis’ at-bat

The movie MARSHALL: My review

~ Fred Thomas, III ~ Leave a comment

[Los Angeles, CA] The movie “Marshall” is set for release this weekend.  I was fortunate to be in attendance with some of my BPG (Black Professional Group) colleagues as they hosted an advance screening Wednesday, October 11th.

 

The life of Thurgood Marshall has been chronicled in the annals of contemporary history.  However as iconic as his legal career was and his subsequent place as a justice on the Supreme Court, there is much about him the public does not know.   The two most recent books of his life do a good job in presenting his career; Thurgood Marshall: American Revolutionary written by Juan Williams (2000) and Showdown, written by Wil Haygood (2015).

 

“Marshall” the movie does a good job of showcasing his brilliance of our legal system.  It is not a documentary but more of a bio-pic.  Therefore, it does take creative license in presenting a very entertaining movie.  Certain scenes take me back to “Native Son” as race and sex are center stage.  You have a black chauffeur accused of raping a white woman, whom he worked for.  We have seen this plot before.  As a young attorney Marshall was part of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund so he was summoned to represent the chauffeur who claimed to be falsely accused.

bi·o·pic
ˈbīōˌpik/

noun

informal
noun: biopic; plural noun: biopics; noun: bio-pic; plural noun: bio-pics
  1. a biographical movie.

 

Through twist and turns of dealing with sheer racism and a system which automatically assumed those accused, especially if they were black (African-American) were guilty, Marshall used his gift to motivate and convince the lead attorney they could turn the system to their favor while seeking to exonerate their client.

My grade

If you know about Justice Thurgood Marshall, you will score the film high.  However, if you are not aware of his career or the plight of blacks during that period, you will miss the sensitivities and may provide a lower grade.  My grade comes in at a solid 7, and after some reflection I could see moving it up to an 8 because it covered so much ground.

 

The cast is very contemporary but at the end you are treated to three people who make a cameo appearance which make you appreciate the struggle of working through the legal system in trying to achieve justice.

 

More information.

 

On Tuesday, October 10th the National Museum of African-American History and Culture in Washington, DC also had a special screening.  Those in attendance were treated to a post question and answer conducted by Wil Haygood (The Butler) as he interviewed the director, Reginald Hudlin.    There are many poignant comments during the 32-minute session, including how not one U.S. company was willing to fund the project.  The usual excuse of the film not having a broad audience was the reason Hudlin shared.  How many times have we heard that only to see such movies take on worldwide interest?   Hudlin’s work was eventually realized as Chinese investors stepped forward.

Question and Answer with director

Here is the official trailer

Chadwick Boseman, Josh Gad, Kate Hudson