A striking 93 percent of Americans are convinced that Elvis Presley has passed away. This leaves a surprising 7 percent who still believe he is alive. The underlying implication is notable—7 percent of Americans hold a rather misguided belief.
Additionally, we can interpret that a statistical figure of 93 percent or higher is nearly definitive. The Elvis factor, at 7 percent, is insignificant enough to be dismissed. Anything lower should be seen as mere background noise.
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that the unemployment rate dipped to 5.3 percent in June, the lowest rate since April 2008. This achievement stands out especially given the economic stagnation we’ve experienced since the recovery began in 2009.
Therefore, it’s worth celebrating this headline figure before critiquing it. A 5.3 percent unemployment rate is almost synonymous with full employment, indicating that 94.7 percent of the workforce is gainfully employed.
This “Elvis factor” more than suffices to compensate for the reported unemployment rate.
“There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America,” stated President Bill Clinton during his inaugural address in January 1993.
The meaning behind this statement is somewhat ambiguous. Perhaps it’s simply the sentiment that a budding President espouses to sound wise and capable. The intent remains unclear.
As we approach Independence Day tomorrow, many Americans have already started their holiday weekend celebrations. Much like Clinton’s vague rhetoric, few truly grasp the significance of this day.
Can we really blame them? Why ponder the gravity of the occasion when there are cold Budweiser beers to enjoy and an array of fireworks to light? Reflection seems a trivial endeavor.
Serious discussions about freedom, liberty, and independence in the context of this holiday often come across as boastful. Over time, these once-powerful terms have been diluted from earnest ideals to mere empty slogans.
The Economic Alamo
By Jeff Thomas, International Man
“And it came to pass in those days that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.” – Luke 2:1, New Testament
“Since the beginning of recorded history, the business of government has been wealth confiscation.” – Ron Holland
It’s commonly believed that governments exist to serve their citizens, requiring the necessary tools of power and taxation to fulfill this role. However, I propose that the opposite holds true: the pursuit of power and taxation serves as the primary agenda of those in authority, while the supposed service to the populace acts merely as a justification for their endeavors.
This dynamic is a constant throughout history. Rulers have consistently sought to expand their powers and maximize taxation as far as possible. Understandably, individuals have always tried to shield their wealth, large or small, from heavy taxation.
Recently, we spent several days exploring the Coachella Valley. For those who haven’t visited, it’s a vast desert region located about 120 miles east of Los Angeles.
Some people travel there for golfing, while others seek retirement and solitude. As for us, our visit was strictly business, and we eagerly anticipated our departure the moment we arrived. The heat and dryness were quite unwelcoming.
We stayed true to our principles: serving our client with genuine interest, diligence, and integrity. Once our duties were fulfilled, we made a direct dash west as soon as the weather permitted.
The goal of our trip was to generate profit, while saving a portion of it remained our objective. Naturally, making money poses fewer challenges than saving it. Yet, pursuing savings is as essential as maintaining good health.
While saving money appears straightforward—spending less than you earn—in practice, it can be quite challenging, especially when raising young children. They seem to wear through shoes faster than an enthusiast finishes a bottle of strawberry Boone’s Farm.
