[Washington, D.C.] On Wednesday, August 22nd Ben’s Chili Bowl celebrated its 60th anniversary. Starting by selling half-smokes, Ben’s has morphed into an institution. Locals understand the lore and many who visit the District of Columbia always make room in their schedule to stop by the iconic restaurant, if nothing more than to pay respect.
On Friday we were treated to be in the company of Ben’s grand dame and family matriarch Mrs. Virginia Ali. She was her usual radiant self and took time to chat with my dear friend Renie Hale (Laurel, MD) and myself. As an added treat she invited me outside to showcase the new murals. In between she expressed views of how Ben’s must continue to meet the needs of a changing community to insure it remains a mainstay on U and the broader DC business community.
Another unexpected surprise was meeting Ben’s historian, Dr. Bernie Demczuk. We were presented with one of his great compilations.
(please accept our apologies for the soiled document)
I’ve been fortunate to hear “The Queen of Soul” – Mrs. Aretha Franklin perform in person a couple of times. The last time was the most memorable.
It was that majestic Tuesday morning on January 20, 2009 as millions were on hand for the inauguration of president Barack Obama. As the “Queen” made her way to the podium you knew you were witnessing history. Her rendition of My Country Tis of Thee was precious. Her impeccable precision and the way she performed the song lifted your spirit. The special hat she donned added to the regalness of the event.
As a matter of fact, many will remember the weather was brisk as the D.C. winter chill hovered around 15 degrees. Days after the great event, Aretha mentioned the chill affected her voice and in her great fashion she re-recorded the song in a more professional setting. It became a huge success and this tidbit added to the lore of why Aretha proudly wore the crown as the “Queen.”
Donald Trump with Darryl Scott photo credit – TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP/Getty Images
Following another meeting to engage the African-American community, last week on August 1st, the Trump administration hosted a “briefing” session which included approximately twenty ministers allegedly representing the community. Those in attendance thought the discussion was about prison reform, recidivism and other social issues and programs to uplift the community? As the case with many of these types of events, the discussion was one-sided. Adding insult to injury it is being reported the administration selected two ministers who were told to make comments. The primary role for others in attendance was to take part of the photo-op.
One minister who was selected to speak was the slack-jawed Pastor Darryl Scott who heads up the New Spirit Revival Center in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. He proudly professes his support for Trump, yet his comments are a stark contradiction of Trump’s track-record in dealing with African-Americans.
As predicted Scott’s comments drew the ire of African-American ministers across the globe
“The Black ministers who met with Donald Trump denigrated the divine and ancestral legacy of the Black churches in America and they dishonored the ministries of Jesus Christ, the prophets, and those sent by God,” Rev. Dr, William Lamar of Metropolitan African-American Episcopal church
The consensus from those who attended was disappointment as while Trump did get his coveted photo-op, the ministers did not walk away with any substance or policies or programs to deal with the issues that were purported to be discussed.
While several in attendance were happy to be in the White House with Trump, some must be reminded of the history and focus of the church, “These ministers are just a little worse than Black preachers who sit with Democrats and refuse to demand justice. We sit with emperors, not to take pictures, but to demand the God’s people be free. These preachers know the church, they know Black respectability, they know American civil religion, but they do not know the prophetic tradition of the Black church and they do not know the liberating gospel of Jesus Christ,” Rev. Lamar, Metropolitan AME
Even though this issue occurred a little over a week ago, it is being blown up on social media. Two videos are listed below to help provide a better perspective on this issue.
From the perennial Alfred Street Baptist Church which is just minutes from the White House and located in Alexandria, VA – Senior Pastor, Rev. Dr. Howard John Wesley delivers his August 5th sermon.
CNN reporter Don Lemon interviews Pastor John Gray following his participation in the meeting
Here is the open letter to 45 from members of the clergy
Shawn Carter (affectionately known by the world as Jay-Z) and Cinemart have given reason to tear open the scab that was created from a painful wound of the Trayvon Martin verdict. Rest in Power: The Trayvon Martin Story aired the first of its six part docuseries this past Monday, July 30th. The tally is unofficial but at least 1.2 million viewers tuned it and were taken back five years when George Zimmerman was found not guilty in killing Trayvon Martin.
Whatever your feelings regarding the tragic incident which cut down the young life of Trayvon, the opening airing was riveting and offered some powerful scenes, some never shown before.
For me the February 2012 incident was personal. Our son was in his final semester at Bethune-Cookman University which is located in Daytona Beach. We were preparing to see him at graduation in May. When news of the incident fanned outside of Sanford I called my son to ask if he had heard of the news? Indeed he had and reminded me when we visited, Sanford was only thirty miles from Orlando was right off I-4. His graduation was slated for May in 2012 so we agreed to visit the site and research the incident, including Martin’s movement to the 7-11 and back to the site were he was gunned down.
Some may dismiss the docuseries but from the first showing I would encourage people to tune in. All along, from carefully following the incident including the subsequent trial, I concluded the prosecutor’s simply did a poor job in presenting the facts of the case. Notwithstanding while the prosecution blew the case in holding Zimmerman guilty of the killing, Martin’s parents; Tracey Martin and Sybrina Fulton did win several civil legal settlements including the homeowner’s association who was guilty by having Zimmerman associate with them as their pseudo neighborhood watchman.
Next airing: Aug. 6, 10pm (est)
**REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION FROM THE URBAN BLOGG, ORIGINALLY POSTED JULY 13, 2013**
Whether it was the State who didn’t get their message or evidence across, or the Defense who put up road blocks that verified doubt, the bottom line is the 6 women Jurors found George Zimmerman not guilty. Or, could it be they just couldn’t find sufficient evidence to find him guilty?
While the news is surprising, as in my mind I have no doubt George Zimmerman was guilty of murdering Trayvon Martin and should have been found guilty…..I was not a juror, so the struggle must go forward. Your thoughts???????
For Zimmerman supporters, the news brings joy and their voice will recant this case never should have been tried. For supporters of Trayvon Martin and his family, including me this is a travesty of justice.
Now that Major League Baseball (MLB) just completed its 89th All Star Game (#ASG) and players have a day or two off before the second half of the season resumes, we thought it would be a good opportunity to update those players who are from Cuba and play on one of the thirty MLB teams (active roster).
This is the legendary Estado Latinoamericano located in Havana. Interestingly it is about as large as Dodger stadium but is located right in the heart of the community
Why the interest?
Baseball is the national sport of CUBA. Their players have been known for their talent which is why it was remarkable to see defections. Now that MLB has solid policies and agreements are in place, teams have shown a healthy appetite in adding those players to their roster.
Currently there are 20 Cuban players on the MLB rosters. That number represents about three percent of the total 750 players as each active roster is comprised of twenty-five players. The number is down by one, as last year there were twenty-one. However, one must keep in mind there are many more Cuban players making their way through the rigorous process of making the active twenty-five player roster (there is single A, double A, triple A, etc.)
Here is a peek of this years crop of Cuban born players in MLB.
[Washington, DC] After cleverly knocking out the multitude of Republican candidates for president of the United States, Donald Trump sharpened his tools and surgically dissected the Democrat nominee, Hillary Clinton to win what many considered a huge upset victory.
The president is a coveted role in the United States. However, the obvious question so many today are asking is why is Donald Trump so upset?
Could it be traced to his first slip-up by showcasing sheer ignorance of governing within our democratic values? This became crystal clear early in his administration as career political staff tried their best to help him navigate the role. He misunderstood it and instead behaved as if he was sworn in as the head a monarch, not one whose system was established with three branches of co-equal powers.
Also, it was bad enough he disrespected the role of basic protocol, particularly with his overt violation of the emoluments clause; insisting he did not have to follow behavior that most presidents accepted with enthusiasm.
A Pig in a Poke
Once Trump threw his name in the hat for the presidency he knew winning would be based on messaging. Surely, he had no tenure as a public official and he could use that to his advantage. He persuaded those with any doubt about his brilliance as a businessperson and one who empathized with all who felt the government had turned on them. It didn’t seem to matter his “success” was built on a false deck of cards as he focused his communication on what he would do for all those who pulled the lever in his favor. Interestingly, there were millions of folk across the united states who were looking for that very message. The fact he had ethical challenges or other character flaws was not as important if he could just peel a slice of benefit for those who subscribed to his promises.
Why is Donald Trump so upset? Could it be the American public are on to his three-card monte scheme? Could it be he is so frustrated he could bite a hole in a steel pole? After all, once he proudly assumed the office, for all he knew the party he was able to commandeer was in control of three critical sectors of governance; the presidency, the house of representatives and the senate. Life appeared great for him, his family and those who supported what he represented!
It’s not my fault
Vilifying others was a winning formula in getting people to support him. In the science of professional sales, I am reminded of the great Dr. Donald S.S. Greene who happened to be my professor in marketing. He helped me understand the psychological nuances of how marketers are able to “sell” products to consumers. He also helped me understand those who consider themselves professional but are really slick-talkers. Their success is hinged on being able to sell the proverbial “Pig in a Poke.” As the case with Trump, folk line up for miles to buy it!
Even though he still hasn’t overcome the notion we do not operate a monarch, he allowed his trusted aide Steven Miller to lead him down the primrose path with the roll-out of the travel ban. They somehow forgot technology has allowed us to live in a digital world and things we said in the past can easily be recalled. It was laughable to see his crew claim he was not against Muslims, when in fact there was overwhelming evidence which the judicial system used to deny the ban.
His latest debacle
No doubt despite his constant blame of others, the Trump administration has enjoyed success. You would think that would be enough for them to let bygones be bygones, but not in the world of Trump. There must be total revenge or vindication.
His latest bonehead which has him seething is once again accepting Miller’s assertion that embracing a “Zero Tolerance” immigration position would result in another winning ticket. You would think with all he has going for him why does he continue to be so upset? The answer is really simple. He has bought into a zero-sum game where he must destroy or otherwise cast into oblivion those who are in his radar – – even the two-year-old child which captured this weeks’ Time Magazine cover. Then again, all he would have to do is realize the United States despite its shortcoming is governed with democratic values where the people yield the power; at least those who chose to use it.
courtesy of Time Magazine
His current debacle is much more than blocking those who illegally come into the United States. The core principle of what makes America different is the attitude of basic humanity, despite whatever laws or rules they may have violated.
[Exposition Park – Los Angeles, CA] This past Thursday the California African-American Museum (CAAM) hosted L.A. Commons and Mrs. Karen Mack in a community symposium titled the “Evolution of View Park.” This was the second of a three-part series focusing on “Making Sense of Gentrification,” highlighting the community of View Park (Los Angeles), CA.
Mrs. Karen Mack welcoming attendees. photo courtesy of fredyt123
A standing room crowd came out to hear and discuss what is one of the hottest topics in the past twenty years. Gentrification is not an easy topic to discuss. The word evokes emotion and for many has a negative meaning. Although from my lens those in attendance were predominately African-American, homeowners and female, for the most part there was a good degree of diversity from other ethnic groups. What also made for a good discussion was the span of age groups. In addition to the focus on View Park, some who have called the community home represented multi-generational families. You also had representation from neighboring communities such as Baldwin Hills, Leimert Park, West Adams and Venice, just to name a few. Additionally, there was representation from cities such as District of Columbia, Baltimore and other cities on the east coast. Sprinkled in the audience were a few millenniums who were courageous to share their perspectives.
Mrs. Mack brought quite a team to inform those in attendance but to also motivate dialogue which is essential in fostering honesty about the subject matter. She was joined by economist Dr. Devin Bunten who has researched the effects of gentrification throughout communities in the United States. The data he was able to cull together to add to his presentation was unapologetic as it was supported by solid documentation. This helped the audience frame a better understanding in answering the What and the Why, as well as the How of Gentrification.
View Park and neighboring Windsor Hills are just two enclaves where today African-Americans maintain over 70% occupancy. They are treasured communities due to property type and proximity.
Also, joining Mrs. Mack was local community historian Mr. Robert Lee Johnson. The grassroots work he has done was well received because he was able to dig back to the evolution of various communities and discuss how they have come to define themselves in 2018.
Lee pointed out how African-Americans migrated from the south. For housing they were relegated to Central Avenue or the “eastside.” Legal segregation was a reality. However, as legal victories were achieved in the 60’s and racial property covenants were ruled unenforceable, African-Americans were afforded housing opportunities that those before them could not enjoy. Many find it hard to believe that Compton, CA was once all white!
Those who were stacked in the Central Avenue corridor took advantage of the legal victories and moved in all directions. Some went west to West Adams, Leimert Park as well as View Park and Baldwin Hills.
The motivation
Gentrification primarily occurs in the urban core and surrounding communities. Communities such as View Park are desirable for a variety of reasons. As beautiful are these areas are, for those looking to move closer to the urban core they must contemplate life in a more multi-cultural environment versus an area they may have grown up in, such as the Westside or other bedroom communities in the suburbs.
By selecting to relocate patient buyers are rewarded with savings in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. The biggest issue they face in coming to the new community is the realty of instead of being in the majority, they find themselves in the minority. Also, part of their acceptance in relocating is understanding services they have come to accept, might be lacking in the new neighborhood, however they can be transformed. Blending those needs into their new community is one of the biggest challenges of gentrification. That is, making sure the new services are appreciated by the current residents so they don’t feel like outsiders.
After the presentations those in attendance came prepared to ask questions and provide their anecdotal realities. The discussion was very candid and became quite emotional. Some felt the current gentrifi’ers are more like invaders.
“THEY WALK THE NEIGHBORHOODS WITH THEIR DOGS AND TARGET PROPERTIES WHICH ARE VUNERABLE, PARTICULARLY WHERE SENIORS MAY BE LIVING ALONE”
“THEY COME TO THE COMMUNITY WITH A HAPPY FACE AND BRING COOKIES AS A RUSE TO DEVELOP FRIENDSHIPS BUT THE REAL MOTIVATION IS TO GET THE HOMEOWNER TO FEEL COMFORTABLE IN DISCUSSING PURCHASING THEIR HOME.”
“THEY WORK WITH LOCAL CODE ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES WHO SCOUR COMMUNITIES LOOKING FOR VARIOUS VIOLATIONS WHICH RESULT IN THE CURRENT OWNERS FEEL THEY ARE HARRASSED. OR THEY RECEIVE FINANCIAL PENALTIES WHICH JEOPARDIZE THE CURRENT OCCUPANTS ABILITY TO PAY.”
“WHILE EVERYONE WANTS A POSITIVE COMMUNITY, THOSE WHO ARE ABLE TO MOVE IN HAVE THE FINANCIAL RESOURCES AND POLITICAL VOICE TO MAKE IMPROVEMENTS THAT CURRENT OCCUPANTS MAY HAVE LACKED. CONSEQUENTLY, AS COMMUNITIES ARE ENHANCED AND DEVELOPED THE RESULT IS HIGHER TAXES WHICH THREATENED CURRENT OCCUPANTS BASED ON THEIR INABILITY TO HAVE THE INCREASE IN INCOME NEEDED TO REMAIN IN THEIR PROPERTIES.”
“THERE IS GREAT CONCERN CURRENT FAMILY’S WILL NOT BE ABLE TO SUSTAIN A LEGACY FOR THEIR CHILDREN AS BASED ON THEIR FINANCIAL PLIGHT, BATTLING RACISM AND OTHER SYSTEMIC ISSUES MAKES IT VERY HARD FOR THEM TO BE ABLE TO AFFORD THE WAY THEIR PARENTS DID.”
The majority of issues raised by the audience was well received as you could see many heads nodding in approval. At the same time, some issues were like self-inflicted wounds as some claimed to be unfairly targeted or harassed. Based on what they were representing their behavior is the type that falls prey to being targeted. Illegal add-ons or other enhancements which might have made the property more livable, in fact are out of code. The result may lead to financial penalties or decrease in value based on what they represent their properties to be. The key, and most homeowners understand this, is to make sure their property is within code or not a target from any scrutiny, let alone a gentrifier who may feel their property is a potential purchase.
The bottom line is Mrs. Mack provided an opportunity for folk to gain information, network and become more empowered. Gentrification may have a negative connotation but understanding how it works is essential so that one has a workable answer why and how groups are reclaiming parts of the city. In the meantime, while people continue to move or relocate for a variety of reasons, much of it justified, those who remain are encouraged to take a page from the 1960’s which saw one of the early migrations of folk leaving the city for what they perceived as “greener pastures.” Don’t Move! Improve!!!
A Historical Perspective:
Racism, White Flight, Gentrification
As mentioned Racism, White Flight and Gentrification are words many have a difficult time discussing.
Racism is not a new clothing line! White Flight is not a new dance step! Gentrification is not a new gelato flavor!
Racism is a by-product of white supremacy. Gentrification is the reverse of White Flight but still a by-product
Racism was most attributed to those who identify as “white” and whose ancestry is primarily European. A construct or a system was created where their race was used to dominate other races and otherwise maintain superiority over others through oppressive tactics, hence the birth of white supremacy.
“IF YOU’RE WHITE, IT’S ALRIGHT……IF YOU’RE BROWN STICK AROUND….IF YOU’RE BLACK GET BACK!!”
the original jim crow character. It became the symbol of institutionalized racism in the united states
Racism became a world phenomenon as whites used their domination to conquer many ethnic groups. The result was colonization. Over the years some may have thought racism was eliminated by groups reclaiming their cultures, however EVEN in 2018 it still festers in our overall society and is quite prevalent.
Many voting age African-Americans had accepting the notion in their lifetime a fellow African-American would never ascend to the office of President. That is why in 2008 they were happily stunned when Barack Obama was elected the 45th president. Likewise, as long as racism has been around many feel it will not be eliminated in their lifetime.
“When we discuss the word integration, what we are stating is the sharing of: Resources, Power & Responsibility” Rev. Dr., Martin Luther King, Jr.
Racism is often confused with prejudice and other biases. Disliking something or someone for whatever reason is much different from using race to oppress other groups. Most people have prejudices but not everyone is a racist. Therefore, many whites are not racist, per se. However, the legacy they inherited shows up in many forms of behavior as other groups attempt to migrate into the larger society.
In the 1940’s, 1950’s, the 1960’s and beyond another phenomenon was created which has it roots in racism. White Flight was the result of primarily African-Americans and other groups moving into areas once primarily occupied by whites. While there are many reasons why whites fled communities and neighborhoods they once proudly called home, the common denominator was their dislike or being uncomfortable sharing space with those such as African-Americans or those who were not like them. In other words, on the periphery they may have had friendly relationships with them, but living next could not be tolerated, thus they fled and established new communities, commonly known as suburbs.
A vital element of White Flight is acknowledging Whites or no group wants to be confined to neighborhoods were property values are decimated, or where there are inferior stores, shops or business opportunities, or where their children suffer the blow of an inadequate educational system. Most important feeling fearful because of the lack of basic services.
A critical element of disparity
Racism has a specific pecking order or domination over others. From economics, employment, housing, education and other factors necessary to fulfill the ideal of living, whites receive higher pay, better employment opportunities, more access to lending as well as better educational opportunities than non-whites. That pattern still exists today as while many groups appear to enjoy a positive lifestyle, typically the person who is white is in a much better economic position, much of it the result of racism or white supremacy. However, one must be careful to not assume whites do not make sacrifices in achieving a better lifestyle. They too work very hard and are dealt some of the same blows as anyone else. In our society they just do not have the burden of being considered “less-than” or other pitfalls which systematically stymies their growth.
“All things being equal if one could insure steady employment, thus steady compensation they too would be in a position to pay their debts in a timely manner resulting in stellar credit”
Gentrification
White Flight does not mean every white person left their community as soon as a non-white showed up. However, as the dominant group shifted, communities across the United States, particularly those in major cities or those known as large urban Cities started a slow process of deterioration. As whites left, they rightfully took their resources, especially in the form of a thriving tax base.
Compounded with the reality of a disparate economic condition, non-whites simply had an inferior economic standard based on the pecking order of racism and discrimination, so living standards were directly compromised.
Those urban areas once occupied by whites were always technically called ghettos. However, the connotation drastically changed once non-whites claimed the space. As resources necessary to maintain those areas took on a slow stream of deprivation, the result was the creation of blight and other negative consequences as well as social forces such as crime and a variety of factors which rendered those areas unattractive.
Gentrification is a subtle, yet specific process. Communities which were defined as deplorable are stimulated with resources as they are redefined. People who are part of the reclamation are for the most part white, and interestingly the off-spring of the very families who fled during White Flight. Through the systemic reality of racism, they are in a better economic and educational position than those who will greet them as neighbors. Thus, rebuilding the communities becomes strategic and transformational. So instead of day-to-day survival, due to their economic standing they are able to execute a more sustainable lifestyle.
The core reality of gentrification is many who remain in those areas which are being reclaimed or who have paltry resources eventually are dealt the blow of being dislocated. This is created from the basic notion of being priced out due to higher taxes or not fully comprehending the windfall they might receive for their property is never enough, thus communities are broken up; literally one house, one block at a time until it is transformed into an oasis for the current occupants.
Donald Trump is riding a high wave as the economy continues to post record-breaking numbers! This morning the Bureau of Labor Statistics released its monthly jobs report. For the first time in 17 years unemployment fell below four percent as 164,000 new jobs were created. Consumer confidence is up. There is optimism in the Korean peninsula. Yet, although there is growing skepticism of the effects of the heralded Republican passed December’s tax bill as echoed by Senator Marco Rubio, for the most part on surface things appear to be going favorably.
BUT…….
can he stop shooting himself in the foot?
Riding on the coattails of all of the fundamental economic restoration strategies implemented by the Obama administration, Trump appears to be positioned for continued success in the months ahead, particularly as long as he can hold onto the reins of the presidency? The big BUT is can he stop from shooting himself in the foot? Can he stop having so many news blunders where the media is consumed with ferreting out the truth? Can he grasp and comprehend that running the United States has much different accountability standards than running Trump enterprises?
The American people didn’t elect a Saint!
Illustration by Seymour Chwast
Donald Trump has been around a long time. In his early 70’s people know him as a savvy businessperson, an expert in managing media, a keen negotiator and even as a con-man, a manipulator, a person of unethical character or an outright pathological liar, just to name a few.
The constant refrain you hear from Trump supporters is the Democrats are just upset they lost the election. Or, they will state they voted and support him knowing full well he wasn’t a saint but someone who would support their positions. All might be true but however it is justified the presidency holds the prestige of being the top voice in the free-world. Thus, it’s one thing to push agendas but it is another for the leader to establish the ideals, character and integrity that represent all who call the United States home.
Even though there have been successes, Trump’s presidency has been riddled with negative responses based on his actions. So, however it is justified there can be no excuse for minimizing his actions just for the sake of feeling he is on “your side.” The thirty-five to forty percent who have taken a blood oath to support Trump deserve him responding to their issues. But, what about the other sixty of so percent who did not vote for him? They too are citizens of the United States and look for the government, especially the president to represent their issues as well?
No Collusion! No Russian interference! No Obstruction of Justice!
cartoon courtesy of Marian Kamensky
For all of those who swear Robert Mueller has overstepped his mandate or directions from Deputy Attorney General, Rod Rosonstein I would plead they step away from the TV or Cable shows that project a witch hunt is being conducted and to please read IN FULL the original mandate as listed HERE.
As specific as it is, what is clear is that Mueller has the responsibility to investigate any areas which morph from the original charge, yet is clearly tied to Russian interference. It is that charge which has gotten in the craw of Trump and those who swear Mueller is “off his rocker.” Hence, Stormy Daniels! Hence Kushner, Hence Manafort supporting the notion of a back channel and so many other actions which have criminal implications.
How can you give an opinion on anything you have not read or fully understand?
You may remember when the United States invaded Iraq one of the primary spokespersons was the character known as Baghdad Bob?
He took to the airwaves to communicate to the public the impact of the invasion with the intent to minimize any threat to his country. His rants became laughable as they were stoked in denial even though most had enough sense to see the obvious and realized how ridiculous he sounded.
Like Baghdad Bob, Trump has taken to the airwaves to proclaim he, his White House and his campaign have done nothing wrong.
cartoon courtesy of HAZE
YOU CAN FOOL SOME OF THE PEOPLE SOME OF THE TIME…….BUT YOU CAN’T FOOL ALL OF THE PEOPLE ALL OF THE TIME
Worse, how in the world can anybody proclaim various results or outcomes about an investigation that has not been completed? Shockingly this is done even as those in Trump’s inner circle have pleaded guilty to a variety of crimes? Why claim you had nothing to do with Russia when there is so much evidence to the contrary? There is nothing wrong with having relationships with anyone, but why deny knowing full well the truth will eventually come out?
There was no Collusion (it is a Hoax) and there is no Obstruction of Justice (that is a setup & trap). What there is is Negotiations going on with North Korea over Nuclear War, Negotiations going on with China over Trade Deficits, Negotiations on NAFTA, and much more. Witch Hunt!
3:45 AM – 2 May 2018
Approximately three months ago or on March 11th Trump nemesis Congressperson Maxine Waters stated the obvious, “If Mueller doesn’t get Trump……Stormy Will!!”
Again, it is no crime to have a relationship with a porn star. Yet, all of these months later something so simple is creating a migraine headache for Trump, as his earlier statements of denial are being corrected with facts or the latest snafus by longtime ally, Rudy Giuliani.
Who remembers the tax return hustle?
Years ago, candidates running for the office of President established a tradition of publicly disclosing full copies of their tax returns. The reason was simple as it was to establish there was no conflict with regard to their income and investments.
Trump boast himself as a successful businessperson. Early during the campaign he promised his tax returns would be released to the public. As time went on, month after month he kept singing a song that as soon as his audit was completed, he would fully release the returns. The problem is he knew full well he had no intention of ever releasing the returns. Trump has used this ruse time and time again whenever he had not intentions in complying with various request. He gives the intimation he will cooperate, then at the last-minute he claims some dubious reason prevents him from complying.
“I will absolutely give my return but I’m being audited now for two or three now so I can’t,” Donald Trump
The latest barrage of Donald Trump claiming he would unequivocal do something BUT…..has to do with the notion of him sitting down with an interview with Special Counsel Robert Mueller and his team of investigators.
Trump sounds convincing but those who understand his behavior have accepted it is just another one of his ruses to proclaim support, knowing full well he will never comply. No doubt, his most rabid supporters, or those who admit he may have issues but as long as “their agenda” gets accomplished, he has their support and have accepted Mueller is out to get him!! Just this morning he belted out he would love to sit down with Mueller as long as he feels he can trust them. The problem with that retort is he knows full well he will never trust them but his strategy is to stoke the notion with his supporters that he is fully cooperating with the investigation.
“Nobody wants to speak more than me — in fact, against my lawyers. Because most lawyers say, ‘Never speak with anybody.’ I would love to speak, because we’ve done nothing wrong. I have to find that we’re going to be treated fairly because everybody sees it now and it’s a pure witch hunt.” Donald Trump, May 4, 2018
Dealing with a Know-it-All
Many agree it was Trump’s populist message which was supported by a thirsty media that propelled him to eventually zip past the republican contenders and snake bite Hillary Clinton in the end. Unfortunately, he takes no prisoners and maintains the posture there is nobody that knows more about anything than him! So whether its Attorney’s, Accountant’s, White House Secretary’s, Doctor’s or even media spokespersons, he has continued a dangerous pattern in undercutting their voice by his behavior which has done more to damage his basic credibility.
Sadly, Donald Trump may never be indicted for anything, let alone spend any time in the brig. The same cannot be true for those who salivated associating with him (i.e., Manafort, Kushner, Flynn, Paige, Cohen, etc.) as they have been dealt the blow of maneuvering serious legal issues.
Come clean with the people and the ride could be as smooth as silk!
As good as things appear to be going such as the economy or jobs report; as evidenced by the Russia issue, the Stormy issue, the media issue, the tax issue or just basic credibility, Trump has brought these problems on himselfby actions or tweets he has directed. Then again, what we are witnessing could be the disruptions many voted for?
The news is not enough to create panic but mortgage rates reached their highest level of 2018 and now sit at 4.470%. That is the rate reported by Freddie Mac from their weekly primary market rate survey, which is the industry standard for gauging consumer mortgages. It represents the benchmark thirty-year mortgage. The survey is compiled from a sampling of lenders who sell mortgages to them.
The increase represents a five-basis point increase from week over week reporting. Among other things the rate increase is attributed to the uncertainty over the impact of tariffs which the Trump administration recently announced.
Most consumers understand mortgage rates are cyclical and even the five-point increase would be considered normal movement. On the other hand, those in the market for a mortgage pay attention to trends as positioning is a big factor in determining when to apply for a loan. Purchase transactions are driven by the close of escrow and refinance transactions take approximately sixty days to close. So, if the assumption is that rates will further increase it is more prudent to lock in the rate at time of application. Of course, if your analysis conclude rates might drop, then your strategy might be to submit your application but “float” the rate or lock in at a later time.
Tax Cuts
The financial projection for 2018 was that rates would increase from their 2017 level. There was much fanfare about the historic tax bill which was passed in December 2017. Hopefully you were lucky enough to receive bonuses touted by the majority political party as well as Donald Trump?
“Still, the vast majority of adults don’t seem to have sensed the effects of the tax cut on their personal finances.” Politico
Although the public still hasn’t been told of how the government plans to pay for the tax cuts which by 2020 will push the tax deficit pass the TRILLION-dollar mark, many have taken the position to support anything which puts a little money in their pocket, even on a temporary basis.
Donald Trump proclaims tax cuts will revolutionize economy. Some are still waiting on promised bonuses or larger paychecks.
Expect Mark Short to be taken to the woodshed
Perhaps he misspoke but later this week do not be surprised if Trump and his strong allies do not take one of their own directly to the woodshed. Why? There was so much hype in attempting the justify the tax cuts and/or more money in worker’s paychecks, one would surely assume the numbers would be more than five percent!!!!
However, contrary to what the Trump administration has been boasting their own Director of Legislative Affairs and Assistant to the President for U.S. President Donald J. Trump, Mark Short belted out on “Meet the Press” that there is good news as five million people have financially benefited from the tax bill passed in December. The problem with Short’s assessment is while five million represents lots of folk, it represents less than five percent of the total workforce which is nearly 125 million, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Wasn’t it presented that nearly every worker would see an immediate gain? Maybe you were one of the lucky five million?
Hear Short’s specific comment at the 40 second mark.
Cost of good increase
Everyone appreciates a good economy. The result is consumer confidence has increased and that is a positive sign which doesn’t get much debate.. The impact for most consumers is even though they have more money in their pocket, the increased cost of goods has eaten away at those gains.
People take part in a protest against the Republican tax bill in Los Angeles, California on December 4, 2017. Democrats and many economists warn that the GOP tax plan gives large tax cuts to corporations and the wealthy and will hurt middle class families. (Photo by Ronen Tivony/NurPhoto)
On the mortgage front today’s rate represents a fifty-basis point increase from year over year reporting. The result is the average consumer ($244,000) is paying an additional $102 per month over a tad over $1,200 for the year. Based on those numbers you will need more than a tax cut or bonus to break even.
Thomas Reports 