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Is investing in copper a good investment? Whether investing in copper is a good investment or not depends on several factors, including the investor’s goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Here are some key points to consider regarding investing in copper:

1. Copper is a cyclical commodity: The demand for copper is closely tied to the overall health of the economy, particularly in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure. When the economy is growing, demand for copper typically increases, driving up prices. However, during economic downturns, copper prices tend to decline.
2. Supply and demand dynamics: Copper is a finite resource, and its price is influenced by the balance between supply and demand. If new copper mines are brought online or existing mines increase production, it could lead to an oversupply and lower prices. Conversely, supply disruptions or increasing demand from emerging economies like China and India can drive prices higher.
3. Industrial usage: Copper is an essential material in many industries due to its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, as well as its resistance to corrosion. It is widely used in electrical wiring, plumbing, and various industrial applications. The growth or decline of these industries can impact copper demand and prices.
4. Investing options: Investors can gain exposure to copper through various instruments, including copper futures contracts, copper mining stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that track copper prices, or physical copper (e.g., copper bars or coins).
5. Volatility and risk: Like many commodities, copper prices can be volatile and subject to significant fluctuations due to various factors, including global economic conditions, geopolitical events, and supply disruptions. Investing in copper carries risks, and investors should be prepared for potential price swings.

Ultimately, the decision to invest in copper should be based on thorough research, an understanding of the copper market dynamics, and an assessment of one’s investment objectives and risk tolerance. It may be advisable to consult with a financial advisor or conduct further research to determine if copper suits your investment portfolio.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2p2Jwt9VZDU

Look at this short video. This is exactly how NOT to act if you are pulled over by a police officer for a traffic infraction. What a POS idiot.

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Entitled man has no idea why he’s being pulled over | He thinks he’s above the law… 🙄 | By Daily Mail VideoFacebook

He thinks he’s above the law… 🙄

What is the 6th Insurrection all about?

What is the Russian Collusion.

What is the Cross Fire Hurricane during the former President Donald Trump Administration?

Every Memorial Day saddens me, not just because of the lives lost during our wars, also my father died on Memorial Day weekend. Is been 55 years since his passing. I mourn each year. Now think of all the family members who mourn their loved ones. I have a friend who posts a picture of her Uncle Patsy, who died in 1943 during World War Two. A relative she never knew who gave his life so we are able to have BBQ’s, camping trips, and picnics. Potential that will never be achieved follows all our lost soldiers. Some soldiers who returned are still battling their demons. Most of my proceeds from my book sales are donated to Wounded Warriors Program. Maybe instead of that extra case of beer over the weekend, make a donation to this program, or any other program that supports our soldiers. Remember they gave their lives for us, its not a joyous holiday. Enjoy your holiday BBQ’s and such, please remember the true meaning of the holiday. When having your first drink salute them for their sacrifice.

Biden Administration authorized use of deadly force in the use of the Mar a Lago Raid. Shoot to kill on former President Donald Trump, his family, and his staff during the Mar a Lago Raid by FBI agents.

https://www.youtube.com/live/nPmcGBynUJo?si=TUhJNbnMDSD–

Florida the land of retirees, oranges and Mickey Mouse. For years Florida has been a safe haven for old folks. The weather is ideal once you get passed hurricanes and alligators. Every state requires acclimation. When I lived in the mountains the air was thinner so it took time to get acclimated. Water takes longer to boil. When I lived in the city everything moved fast. Florida you think moves slow, well let me inform you it doesn’t. Maybe back in the day, but lately the traffic is out of hand. The influx of norther people has changed the state. No longer grandma and grandpa, big corporation set up shop. During Co-Vid when we were isolated, working remotely seemed to be the answer. It’s true the weather is great in the south. But where is the south? The Mason Dixon Line actually borders Pennsylvania. I guess south Philly is really the south. Whereas Florida is really in the south, Key West being the southern most point of the USA. How about the Deep South? Alabama and Mississippi, you can’t get anymore south as far as culture. You know you’re in the south when you start saying, “Y’All.” The food is different, the music is also different. My big acclimation has been the bugs. Have you ever seen mosquitoes in Louisiana? They can swoop down and pick up a little dog. Being Italian and loaded with that wonderful aroma of garlic I thought I was immune. No way! Roaches as big as mice, you’ll always know when its humid, they suddenly appear everywhere. Rats, yep we got them too, fruit rats, sounds much nicer than sewer rats. Lizards are everywhere, they used to be a bright green color like the Geico lizard. Then black northern lizards moved in and ate the green guys, evolution? Housing prices have doubled in the past five years, gas and food are at an all time high. The cost of living is so high for us elderly that we see every mouth our savings dwindle. $500.000 for a shack, but it has location. I have been checking the prices of houses in Pennsylvania lately. Some Florida half million dollar shack is $250,000. Maybe I’ll trade in my suntan lotion for a snow shovel and retire up north.

Here’s a great 👍 informative video clip from VINWiki about car Depreciation the minute you drive it off the auto dealership. Electric cars, like all vehicles, experience depreciation, but there are specific factors that influence the rate at which they lose value. Here’s an overview of how electric cars depreciate and the factors affecting their depreciation rates:

Factors Influencing Depreciation of Electric Cars

1. Battery Life and Technology:

   • Battery Degradation: The lifespan and efficiency of the battery are critical. Over time, batteries lose their ability to hold a full charge, which can decrease the car’s range and performance.
   • Technological Advances: Rapid advancements in battery technology and electric vehicle (EV) features can make older models obsolete faster than traditional vehicles.

2. Government Incentives:

   • Tax Credits and Rebates: Federal and state incentives for new electric car purchases can reduce the initial cost, but these incentives don’t apply to used cars, which can affect resale values.
   • Policy Changes: Changes in government policies regarding incentives can also impact the depreciation rates.

3. Brand and Model Perception:

   • Brand Reputation: Brands with a strong reputation for quality and reliability tend to depreciate more slowly.
   • Model Popularity: Highly popular models with good reviews and strong market demand retain their value better.

4. Market Demand:

   • Consumer Preferences: As consumer interest in EVs grows, demand for used electric cars can help stabilize depreciation rates.
   • Resale Market: A well-established resale market can positively impact depreciation rates.

5. Mileage and Usage:

   • Lower Running Costs: EVs typically have lower running costs, which can make them more appealing on the used market.
   • Usage Patterns: How the car has been used (e.g., city vs. highway driving) and overall mileage will affect its resale value.

Depreciation Rates Comparison

Electric vs. Gasoline Cars:

• Higher Initial Depreciation: Electric cars generally depreciate faster initially compared to gasoline cars. This is partly due to the high cost of the battery and rapid technological advancements.
• Long-term Trends: Over time, as the market for electric vehicles matures and battery technology stabilizes, depreciation rates for EVs may become more comparable to those of traditional vehicles.

Examples and Data

Tesla:

• Model S and Model 3: Tesla vehicles, particularly the Model S and Model 3, have shown better-than-average resale values compared to other electric cars. This is attributed to Tesla’s strong brand reputation, continuous software updates, and high consumer demand .

Nissan Leaf:

• Rapid Depreciation: The Nissan Leaf, one of the earlier mainstream electric cars, has experienced rapid depreciation. Factors include its older battery technology and the availability of newer, more advanced EV models .

Conclusion

Electric cars depreciate due to factors such as battery life, technological advancements, government incentives, brand reputation, and market demand. While they may depreciate faster initially compared to gasoline cars, certain models, like those from Tesla, tend to retain their value better. As the market for electric vehicles continues to evolve, these depreciation trends may change.

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• This discussion was modified 10 months, 3 weeks ago by  Gustan Cho.

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Market Insights on the Values of High-End EVs! | Market Insights on the Values of High-End EVs! | By VINwikiFacebook

Market Insights on the Values of High-End EVs!

“Okay class, simmer down, simmer down, this weekend’s reading assignment will be pages one through fifty in “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Yes, Jimmy, you have a question?” Yes’m ma’am, my momma and daddy won’t let me read that book.” Why replied the teacher? “ It’s offense to my parents, it uses the N word.” Jimmy, go home and tell you parents it’s supposed to offend us. Banning books is like banning history, oh wait they want to change that, too because it offends people. You know what happens if you start banning books? Your freedom is challenged. First Mockingbird, next Huck Finn, and maybe the Bible, who knows? American Literature is a history lesson. When John Steinbeck wrote, “Of Mice and Men,” he depicted the era of Depression. Where else would we get a first hand lesson by an eye witness of the Depression. Not many people are still alive to talk about it. Was there a lesson? When Atticus Finch states, “ you will never know a person until you walk in their shoes.” Yes, a big lesson about racism. Huck Finn befriends Jim a slave. Message? Mockingbird and Huck Finn are called, “coming of age,” novellas. When a child starts on one path and sees the other path. A story of personal growth. Mockingbird, similar genre, only he is an adult. An attorney who finally debates racism. They don’t write them like that anymore. There are lessons people refuse to see. You can’t ban books, you are giving up your First Amendment. Next they will ban, “Old Man and the Sea,” because of animal cruelty. He killed a marlin. Oh, wait, the message, did he really kill a marlin? Or was their some other meaning to the story.

When you’re thinking about buying or refinancing a home, there’s one important thing you need to know: LVR. This short acronym can help you understand how much you can borrow, what interest rates you’ll get, and what risks are involved. Let’s learn why LVR is so important, and also get professional advice.

What is LVR?

LVR stands for Loan-to-Value Ratio. It’s the percentage of the home’s value that you borrow. For example, if your LVR is 80% or less, you might get better interest rates and pay less each month. If your LVR is more than 80%, you might need to pay for Lender’s Mortgage Insurance (LMI) or have a family member help you.

How to Calculate LVR

Figuring out your LVR is easy. Divide the amount you want to borrow by the appraised value of the home, then multiply by 100 to get the percentage.

What Isn’t Included in LVR Calculation?

When you calculate LVR, don’t include extra costs like fees for lawyers, stamp duty, or other expenses.

Practical Example

Let’s say you’re buying a house for $500,000 and you have saved $100,000 for the deposit, so you need to borrow $400,000. Here’s how you calculate your LVR: LVR = ($400,000 ÷ $500,000) x 100 = 80%.

Your LVR will be 80% if the lender thinks the home’s value is the same as the purchase price. If you have a bigger or smaller deposit, your LVR will change. For example, a $150,000 deposit would make your LVR 70%, while a $50,000 deposit would make it 90%.

Borrowing Above or Below 80% LVR

Why is 80% LVR important? Your borrowing conditions and risks change a lot based on whether your LVR is above or below this point.

Borrowing Up to 80% LVR

Lenders see less risk when you borrow up to 80% LVR, so they often give better rates. You’re also more likely to avoid paying LMI and enjoy a simpler, faster approval process.

Borrowing More Than 80% of Property Value

If you need to borrow more than 80% of the home’s value, lenders usually require LMI to protect themselves. This insurance adds to your loan balance and monthly payments. Higher LVRs also often mean higher interest rates.

Handling Lower Valuations

If the lender thinks the home is worth less than the purchase price, you might need a bigger deposit to keep an acceptable LVR. For example, if a $500,000 home is appraised at $450,000, you might only get a loan for $360,000 at 80% LVR, needing a $140,000 deposit.

Benefits of Paying LMI

Sometimes, paying LMI can help. If saving a bigger deposit means waiting years to buy a home, the cost of LMI might be less than the increase in home prices during that time.

Lowering Your LVR

To reduce your LVR, you can ask a parent or close relative to be a guarantor, using their home equity to secure your loan. Another way is to save a bigger deposit. Start saving early and set a goal for your LVR when planning your home purchase.
That was all about LVR.

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Refinancing your mortgage can be confusing. It’s not always easy to decide if you should refinance or keep your current loan. You need to do some research, get advice, and compare your options. The right time to refinance depends on your situation. Before you decide, make sure to – Get the expert advice.

• Look at your current financial situation.
• Use a refinance calculator to compare options.
• Understand the pros and cons of refinancing.
• Learn the steps and fees involved.

When Do Most Homeowners Decide to Refinance?

Most people refinance to get a lower interest rate with another lender. Other reasons include when their fixed-rate term is ending or every 3 to 4 years, even with a variable rate. By then, their loan balance might be lower and property value higher, making it a good time to look for better rates or flexible options. Some refinance if their lender won’t release equity for buying an investment property or for debt consolidation to combine debts into a home loan at a lower interest rate.

How to Know if You Are Eligible to Refinance

• Owe less than 80% of property value: Your mortgage should be less than 80% of your property’s value to avoid paying Lenders’ Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
• Variable rate: You can refinance every 6 months, but each application will add an inquiry to your credit file.
• Refinance from low doc to full doc: If you had a low doc mortgage but now have enough income evidence, you might qualify for a standard home loan with a better interest rate.
• Refinance out of a bad credit loan: If your Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) is 80% or less and your credit has improved, you can refinance a bad credit home loan back to a major lender.

Refinance Your Home Loan in Easy Steps

1. Understand the Situation: Refinancing can be challenging. Check out our refinance guide to help you get closer to paying off your loan faster and for less money.
2. Know Your Savings: Contact our mortgage experts to see how much money and time you could save by refinancing.
3. Apply for a Refinance: Schedule an appointment with a Home Loan Experts mortgage broker by calling 1300 GET LOAN or book a consultation. We’ll help you choose the best loan and handle all the details for you.

How Frequently Should I Refinance My Home Loan?

It depends on your financial situation and goals. If it’s your family home and you’re not planning to move, consider refinancing at the end of your fixed term. If you have a variable rate, you can refinance anytime. This is useful for investment properties when you want to access equity to grow your portfolio.

Does It Make Sense to Refinance During a Fixed Term?

Yes, you can refinance during your fixed term, but you might have to pay break costs. If you can recoup these costs within two years, it might be worth it. Use the refinancing calculator to compare costs and savings. Talking with an experienced mortgage broker can help you fully assess your financial situation.

Alternatives to Refinancing

Refinancing can be costly and time-consuming. Here are some alternatives:

• Negotiate with Your Bank: Call your lender to see if you can get a lower interest rate or fix your repayments.
• Extend Your Loan Term: Consider extending your loan term to reduce repayments.
• Switch to Interest-Only Repayments: This can temporarily reduce your repayments, freeing up cash flow.

Keep in mind these should be considered short-term solutions as they can make your mortgage more expensive in the long run.

Not Sure When is the Right Time to Refinance?

Our refinance checklist will help you gather all necessary documents. We can assist you in running the numbers to see if refinancing makes sense for you. Call us at 1300 GET LOAN or book a consultation call to speak with one of our home loan refinance specialists.

Frequently Asked Refinancing Questions

When should I consider refinancing?

• When interest rates are falling
• Your home’s market value has increased
• You want to renovate or invest

What documents are required?

• Recent pay slips
• Tax assessment notice
• Pay confirmation letter
• ID documents (driver’s license, passport)
• Financial and credit documents

How long does the process take? Usually, it takes between two and four weeks.

Does refinancing affect the credit rating? Yes, refinancing is seen as a credit application and can lower your credit score if done often.

What are the costs to refinance? You might need to pay break fees, application fees, and closing costs.

How frequently can I refinance? There’s no rule, but some lenders might want you to wait a few months after closing on a loan or after refinancing.

Is refinancing and topping up your loan the same thing? Refinancing means switching to a new loan, while a loan top-up means increasing your existing loan.

Who should I refinance with? Different lenders offer different options based on your situation. Our mortgage experts can help you find the best option.

Procrastination is great, you have something to do tomorrow, and nothing to do today.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jd5PfO4P6g4

The Curse of the Sopranos

Most everyone has seen the Soprano’s, one of the greatest television shows ever. I was a late comer to the Sopranos when it started in 1999. I was working nights and didn’t have HBO. My sister in New York would call me and tell me about this new mafia comedy set in New Jersey. Of course I knew Jersey mobsters growing up, they differed from New York mobsters. Now, rasicm comes in all shapes and sizes. I was writing for a local newspaper and I was the food and wine editor. Some other writers, who studied journalism were on the staff. They never paid me any mind until the Sopranos, each Monday morning when the discussions should have been about current events, turned to discussions about the TV show, which I had never seen. Always asking me what do this mean, or what does that mean. One question which took me a while to figure out was, what does, “Maname?” I would answer I don’t know what you mean. Then one day I figured it out, “Madonna Mia.” Mother Mary or my mother was the answer.

My sister would still call and ask if I saw the show. I still never saw it. Yes, I am a New York Italian. Not all of us were in the mafia. If you want to piss off and Italian, put ice in your wine, and ask him about the mafia. We all knew who they were growing up. Suddenly, I was looked at as a once member. I tried to dispel this theory, but to now avail.

My sister would call and say have you seen the show and finally I did. It’s a friggin comedy! And the funny part all the ‘boys’ were comics in real life. I remember drinking with Ralph Gigante and he made me pee my pants. I recall when I was treated unfairly in a neighborhood business deal Ralpie spoke on my behalf. He said watch this, we walked into the shop of the unfair person took one look at Ralpie, “The Beast.” and cowarded on the floor pleading, “don’t tell Vinny, please!” The intimidation was a comedy act, like the Sopranos.

I was really perceived as a New Jersey mobster, I would say, “I’m from New York ,” it didn’t make a difference. Fast forward to 2008, I return to New York armed with incomparable wine knowledge. No New York restaurant would hire me, I was too New York and represented the mob. This was difficult to overcome. I was home and I didn’t fit in. Fast forward once again to 2022. My financial advisor shows up at my home one afternoon with real bad news. The first thing he says is, “don’t hit me, but I lose 20 percent of your investment, “please don’t hit!” What the fuck! I think, he’s watching too many Soprano shows. Yes, I am intimidating, I’m big with broken fingers from boxing, and I’m Italian! Now I get it! Okay lets fast forward one more time to 2023. My wife and I at the deli counter ordering cold cuts, that’s what we call them,not sandwich meat, cold cuts. I ask the deli man for a half pond of capicola. My wife asks what’s that, and I answer ‘gabbagoul.” Looking shocked she says, “that’s what Tony Soprano eats!”

The problem with racism is that the book IS judged my its color. Some parts may be true. One time my daughter was having a problem with a guy she worked with in California. Me living in Florida told her, “you know I’ll be on the next flight out, just to talk to him.” And I add, “tell him where I was born and show him a picture and ask him, “do you what to meet my dad?”

The guy never bothered her again. My own daughter was scared of my appearance, but she knew better, she knew me.

Please don’t fear me, and please don’t piss me off.

When an automaker says only 400 cars made worldwide and there’s 500 VIN numbers, what’s up with that. Here’s a very informative video clip classic and exotic auto enthusiasts will find it very interesting. I think before watching the attached video clip, car makers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and others were legitimate when they produced limited production exotic and classic cars. The Ferrari Enzo is a high-performance supercar produced by the Italian automaker Ferrari. Here are some key features and details about the Ferrari Enzo:

1. Production: The Enzo was produced from 2002 to 2004, with only 400 units made, making it a rare and highly sought-after vehicle.

2. Design: Named after the company’s founder, Enzo Ferrari, the car’s design was inspired by Formula 1 technology. It features a carbon-fiber body, advanced aerodynamics, and a sleek, aggressive look.

3. Engine and Performance: The Enzo is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine, producing 651 horsepower. This allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in just 3.14 seconds and reach a top speed of 218 mph (351 km/h).

4. Transmission: It features a 6-speed automated manual transmission with paddle shifters, providing a rapid and precise gear-shifting experience.

5. Suspension and Brakes: The Enzo is equipped with state-of-the-art suspension and braking systems, including carbon-ceramic brakes, ensuring exceptional handling and stopping power.

6. Interior: The interior is focused on performance, with minimalistic design elements, racing seats, and a digital display providing essential driving information.

7. Legacy: The Ferrari Enzo is considered one of the most iconic supercars of its time, combining cutting-edge technology, exceptional performance, and exclusivity.

The Ferrari Enzo remains a symbol of Ferrari’s commitment to excellence in automotive engineering and design. However, if Ferrari says that they only made 400 Ferrari Enzo supercars, is this correct? What is up with the 500 VIN numbers? If this is true, this is huge international fraud. These cars are multi-million dollar super sportscars and the reason for such high value is due to the limited production numbers.

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• This discussion was modified 10 months, 3 weeks ago by  Gustan Cho. Reason: Spelling error

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Enzo Model Reportedly Produced Beyond Official Claims | Enzo Model Reportedly Produced Beyond Official Claims | By VINwikiFacebook

Enzo Model Reportedly Produced Beyond Official Claims

Only 20 Lamborghini Reventon Ever Made. The Lamborghini Reventón is an iconic and extremely limited-edition supercar produced by the Italian manufacturer Lamborghini. Here are some key details and features about the Lamborghini Reventón:

Production: The Lamborghini Reventón was produced between 2007 and 2009. Only 20 units were made for customers, with an additional car (numbered 0/20) produced for the Lamborghini museum, making it one of the rarest Lamborghini models ever made.

Design: The design of the Reventón was heavily inspired by modern fighter jets, with sharp, angular lines and an aggressive, aerodynamic profile. The car features a carbon-fiber exterior, with a matte finish giving it a distinctive, stealthy appearance.

Engine and Performance: The Reventón is powered by a 6.5-liter V12 engine, producing 650 horsepower. This allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in just 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 211 mph (340 km/h).

Interior: The interior of the Reventón is a blend of luxury and high-tech features, with carbon fiber, leather, and Alcantara materials used throughout. The instrument panel is entirely digital, with two LCD screens displaying vital information in a format reminiscent of a jet cockpit.

Price: When it was released, the Lamborghini Reventón had a price tag of around $1.5 million, making it one of the most expensive cars at the time.

Legacy: The Reventón is often regarded as a precursor to the Lamborghini Aventador, with many design and technological elements influencing the latter model. Its rarity, performance, and design have made it a highly sought-after collector’s item.

The Lamborghini Reventón remains a symbol of Lamborghini’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design and performance, embodying the brand’s tradition of creating bold, head-turning supercars.

Here’s a video clip of the Lamborghini Reventon Lamborghini enthusiasts may find interesting.

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• This discussion was modified 10 months, 3 weeks ago by  Gustan Cho.

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Too Good To Be True: Could This Reventón Be Real?! | Too Good To Be True: Could This Reventón Be Real?! | By VINwikiFacebook

Too Good To Be True: Could This Reventón Be Real?!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYNOeC7f0UY

Are Ferrari GTB great investments for the future. I remember Gustan Cho telling me about the two classic Ferrari to invest in. The Ferrari Testarossa and the Ferrari 599 GTB.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsF74UvXUXA

Chase helped himself to ice cream 🍦 while I was mowing. He knows how to open the refrigerator door. He better not have the shits.

Mowing everyday. Keeps raining here and grass won’t stop growing. Landscapers on furlough until I get caught up on mortgage and thanks to Biden’s Bidenomics, Inflation, and high labor costs. I am ruining my John Deere tractor. Using up tons of Diesel ⛽️. May need to get some goats 🐐 😬 🤔 or some potheads to smoke 🚬 up my grass. Hate mowing. I will probably be mowing all summer ☀️

Budget cuts.

I would like to thank my middle finger for sticking up for me and always there when I need it.

I am a pizza! Caio! I came to this country from humble beginnings, not sure exactly where or when. But, I know I am Italian by birth, somewhere in the south, maybe Naples or Rome. I’m a simple dish made from flour, tomatoes, and cheese; yes, I have evolved and morphed into something entirely different.

Many other countries claim I am theirs; that’s because they all have flatbread with some cheese and tomatoes. I’ll tell you what I wasn’t born with: pepperoni, pineapple, and other toppings. No pepperoni in Italy; it’s soppressata, an Italian sausage.

Gennaro Lombardi was the first Italian to introduce me to America. I grew up on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, 23 1/2 Spring Street in Little Italy, a block away from Mulberry Street. I’m still here after 120 years. He took his recipe from Naples, Italy. Although pizza varies from Italian province to Italian province, I’m still basically the same.

Roman makes oval pizza, Naples’s pizza is round, and Sicilian pizza is square. Now we have thin-crust and deep-dish pizza. New York pizza is different from Italy; in New York, you walk down the street with the pizza folded and olive oil dripping down your arm. The only toppings I’m okay with are anchovies, olives, oregano, and red pepper. I don’t need much; fresh basil is nice to make a Margarita pizza. This pizza displays the color of the Italian flag, red, green, and white.

I really think I am the most popular food in the United States. Lots of countries take credit for me. I was called focaccia, just a flatbread, 2000 years ago. I have seen many things in my life. Did I ever tell you the time I first witnessed wine being discovered? I mean, what goes better with pizza than red wine.

So, I’m lying around just cooling off after just coming out of the oven, waiting to be devoured. All of a sudden, these Romans start throwing all these discarded pieces of fruit, mostly grapes, into a huge terra cotta vat in the corner. After a few days, it began to stink! It smelled like rotten eggs, which I learned was H2S, Hydrogen Sulfide. Whatever gave the Roman Centurian the idea to drink it? I thought for sure he would get sick and vomit. Instead, he suddenly turns to address the Roman Senate and says, “It needs more time.” Two weeks later, the rotting fruit turned into my favorite beverage – wine.

The same was true for cheese years ago; you encourage this mold to grow. The mold is yeast and is cultured into cheese. Many kinds of cheese really stink, so my question always was, “How do you know when cheese is bad?” You can just cut the mold off and eat the rest. I prefer “muzzarella,” aka mozzarella, made from Italian buffalo. The fresher, the better. Yes, I know “muzz” is hard to melt; that’s why the oven is over 1000 degrees.

I love when olive oil is drizzled over me; it tickles! The olive oil simmers, the cheese melts, and the tomatoes are cooked. Boy, do I smell good! I don’t even feel the pizza cutter slice through me. I am a pizza! I am round, square, and oval. Any way they make me; I am a pizza! Bon Appetite!

James Strebel is the President and CEO of REO Foreclosure Services. REO Foreclosure Services is a preferred referral partner of Gustan Cho Associates and its subsidiaries. The business model of “REO Foreclosure Services” typically refer to the suite of services provided by banks or financial institutions for managing properties that have been acquired through foreclosure. These services may include:

Property Management: Banks often need to manage the properties they acquire through foreclosure. This can involve tasks such as property maintenance, repairs, and ensuring that the property is secure.

Marketing and Sales: REO properties need to be marketed to potential buyers in order to sell them. This may involve advertising the properties through various channels, coordinating showings, and negotiating offers.

Title Services: Clearing title issues is an important aspect of selling REO properties. Banks may provide title services to ensure that the title is clear and marketable.

Closing Services: Once a buyer has been found for an REO property, closing services are needed to finalize the sale. This may involve coordinating with the buyer, their lender, and other parties involved in the transaction.

Asset Valuation: Banks need to accurately value their REO properties in order to determine listing prices and make informed decisions about their disposition.

Loss Mitigation: Some banks offer loss mitigation services to help distressed homeowners avoid foreclosure. This may include options such as loan modifications, short sales, or deed in lieu of foreclosure.

Overall, REO foreclosure services are designed to help banks efficiently manage and sell properties acquired through foreclosure while minimizing losses. @Lilboss

Are early 1970s C-3 Convertible Corvettes great investments.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cfu8nsPlglY

My dog is thirsty; he has been thirsty for the last three hours. His bowl is empty, and I don’t really care. My son took him on a long walk, and my dog returned very thirsty. His bowl can’t be more than three feet from me, yet I am unable to get up off my couch and replenish his water. Why? I have PTSD.

This is a crippling disorder that is not only mental and physical; it is a biological disorder. I never thought I would encounter something so physically and mentally disabling.

In brief, I was the first responder at a fatal, freaky accident that took the life of an innocent young girl younger than my daughters. An errant double axle tire came loose from a semi-truck and traveled 400 yards before crushing a girl to death, then bounced back at my wife and I. The tire destroyed our car and came within feet of killing us. I couldn’t save the girl. I carry that guilt.

I wrote a book about my experience some years ago, “Espiritus,” which helped set me on a new writing path to help me cope. Writing is my therapy. I always thought PTSD couldn’t affect me because I wasn’t a soldier who witnessed unspeakable things. PTSD is fairly new; in WW1, it was considered shell-shocked; in WW2, it was called battle fatigue. Vietnam introduced PTSD. Apparently, first responders, police, and firefighters can suffer as well. Anyone can suffer from this disorder. There is no cure, just ways of curbing the edge of this depression.

You go about your daily business, and suddenly you are derailed. There are many triggers.

The more you deny you suffer from PTSD, the worse it gets. Learning self-control of situations that suddenly hit you out of nowhere is something else that happens, and you need to find your “safe place” in your mind when this happens. I have a daily box of tools to delve into. My dog is one of my tools; he is extremely helpful. His unconditional love helps. My daily song for my bride releases my heart; planning and cooking dinner is great therapy, as well as long walks to sync my mind and body.

Finally, the most important part of my daily therapy is pausing several times each day to thank God for my wonderful life, followed by prayers for the young girl who died.

I support Wounded Warriors, and the proceeds from my book are donated to this worthy cause.

Thank you for reading my stories.

Peter Arcuri

I found $20 in the parking lot of the supermarket, so I thought to myself, what would Jesus do?

So I turned it into wine.

Business credit cards are specialized credit cards designed for business-related expenses. They are offered by various financial institutions and are intended for use by businesses, regardless of their size – from small startups to large corporations. These cards provide a convenient way for businesses to separate their personal and business expenses, track their spending, and manage their cash flow. Here are some key features of business credit cards:

Separation of Business and Personal Expenses: Business credit cards help maintain a clear distinction between personal and business finances. This is essential for financial reporting, tax purposes, and overall financial management.

Expense Tracking: Many business credit cards offer detailed expense reporting tools. This can simplify accounting processes by providing categorized statements that make it easier to track and analyze business spending.

Rewards and Perks: Similar to personal credit cards, business credit cards often come with rewards programs, cashback incentives, and other perks. These rewards may be tailored to business-related expenses such as travel, office supplies, or telecommunications.

Employee Cards: Business credit cards often allow business owners to issue supplementary cards to employees. This can be helpful in managing employee spending, setting individual spending limits, and tracking expenses by employee.

Credit Building: Responsible use of a business credit card can contribute to building a positive credit history for the business. This can be valuable when the business needs to apply for loans or other forms of financing.

Higher Credit Limits: Business credit cards typically come with higher credit limits compared to personal credit cards. This can be advantageous for businesses that have significant operational expenses.

Access to Business Tools: Some business credit cards provide additional tools and resources, such as expense management software or travel benefits, to help businesses streamline their operations.

Interest Rates and Fees: Business credit cards may have varying interest rates and fees, so it’s important for business owners to carefully review the terms and conditions. Some cards may offer an introductory 0% APR period or other promotions.

It’s crucial for business owners to use business credit cards responsibly and pay attention to their terms and conditions. Keeping personal and business finances separate, monitoring expenses, and paying bills on time are key practices to make the most of these financial tools.

• This discussion was modified 1 year, 3 months ago by  Chase.
• This discussion was modified 3 months, 1 week ago by  Sapna Sharma.