Roadblocks

As shameful counterpoint to the euphoria we all knew when the new presidential team started its work, has the scandal of local politics brought us a disquieting sense of gloom from Chicago. Introducing the Chief Executive of Illinois to the public arena has disclosed the drama of a governor's arrest at his home, and the recitation of his corrupt actions while in office, as given by a United States Attorney last week. He had apparently attempted to sell the appointed office of U.S. Senator to the highest bidder, in a display of venality unwritten since Capone and the other gangs in Cook County ruled by terror. The vacancy was the senate seat formerly occupied by the newly-elected Barack Obama. Further action by the Illinois Attorney-General and its legislature may unseat him or strip him of his powers. Blagojevich has refused to resign.

More details in the sad story of the newly defined recession yield the unhappy conclusions of the Senate Republicans to deny the loan to the Big Three automobile giants in the U.S: Ford, GM and Chrysler. Later in the week, further imperiling the growing statistic of unemployment and dropping gross national product. Unusual support by the lame-duck president put the bailout in the out-box. Further avenues open to the Treasury Department may well loosen a source of loan which will keep the giants alive. Just as importantly will be the prevention of failure in the smaller subsidiary firms whose workers depend upon the big leaders. Disheartening indeed is the news from the banks, which have elected to keep the credit crunch in place, tightening the already severely impaired cash flow and liquidity. Little enough for the holiday spending.

"Black Friday" came and went with disappointing statistics of that legendary shopping day that starts the holiday season -- about all that's ready to respond is the celestial event of the Winter Solstice. (At least, we'll still be able to enjoy all the old and new Christmas music -- and celebrate the farewell to Autumn once more with feeling.) We're getting used to a sunset that comes earlier and earlier, making our days seem rather lopsided while they pass so quickly into the chilly winds of night. One must emphasize the need for optimism and confidence, realizing that the stuff of an American is to keep plodding ahead, no matter how difficult matters come to. This too will pass, and we will abide in the plenty we have worked so hard to obtain.