ONGOING MESS

Ben Bernanke said this morning that our economy is in a severe contraction. That's an understatement. On the other hand, we've had one national manufacturer here in Tyler recently announce a layoff of 150 people, but otherwise everything seems quite normal. Most of the rest of the nation is having a lot more problems.

Because of fear, there are bunches of re-financings at the local banks; and folks aren't shopping for new homes like they were. But our market seems to be steady and healthy. Restaurants, movies and retail outlets are full. Properties on which folks can be self-sufficient (several acres) are in demand more than the house on a city lot. I guess the motivation there is to be independant of the more socialist movements of the government.

But this is a place where you can come and be somewhat independant. Water is plentiful, and the weather is great. Nobody to impose stuff on you that you don't like. So, get what you can get for yours; and move to East Texas where the living is easy.