May 15, 2008 04:00 am Global economy a reality What a shame that no power exists apparently to stop the march of those determined to destroy the plan that would help the future economy of Frankfort, while promoting the safety of those on the ground as well as in the air who are approaching the Dow Memorial Field airport. Added to the current energy problems that bring hardship to all who travel, Frankfort should be looking for political leaders who can encourage commerce to support life in this town, to replace those riding on the horse that is depending on visiting fishermen to buy lots of expensive fuel to push their boats through the water and ring local cash registers! Residents will see many more local boats for sale while real estate values will fall, and jobs will become more scarce. Taxes may rise to repay the gift being destroyed to save trimming and replanting some trees. The global economy is a reality. Isolationism went to the dust bin many decades ago and offers no alternative now. Shutting the airport to fast emergency parts will cause jobs to vanish. Perhaps Frankfort needs no industry or jobs. Richard Tryon Invest carefully Don't let Bill O'Reilly and Stephen "The Gas Man" Sutherland fool you -- the reason gas prices are high is not some secret oil company conspiracy (which there's no evidence to support). The record weak dollar, caused by the reckless printing of money (through deficit spending and the deliberate Federal Reserve policy of cutting interest rates) resulting in inflation, is the main cause. Don't believe me? Google "dollar down oil up" and "Peter Schiff on oil" to learn more. Another contributing factor is speculation in the oil markets by investors like mutual funds, hedge funds, corporations and individuals like you and me. We are betting that the government will continue to inflate the dollar for the foreseeable future. How to lower prices? Demand that your politicians in Washington support a strong dollar. Inform your friends and family that the government could reverse the high prices tomorrow if they force the issue. Protect yourself from the politicians' inaction. Goldman-Sachs predicts $150 to $200 oil over the next year. To hedge conveniently, buy oil and commodities stocks that rise in the continuing inflation (e.g. OIL, JJG, and GLD symbols). If oil falls, you pay less for gas. Be careful when investing. Zack Fivenson The writer is a former resident of Traverse City.
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Frankfort
Chicago
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