More Signs of Economic Recovery

A Parallel Turkey Universe?

from http://www.guy-sports.com/humor/pictures/picture_thanksgiving.htm

Green shoots of economic recovery can be found in many unusual places.  This was brought to my attention by LogisticsTODAY.  They are reporting that UPS (United parcel Service) is raising their rates an average of 4.9% in 2010.  This is not an isolated event.   The airlines started doing this early in 2009.  American Airlines charges $20.00 for each checked bag.  Some airlines even charge for coach seats that provide more leg room.  Homes in my neighborhood had dropped in price byaas much as 50% just two months ago.  From that low point the asking prices have increased by one third or more.

Finally the unemployment situation has improved with the drop in new claims for unemployment benefits to 466,000 per week from 501,000 last week.  That is the first drop below the 500,000 mark since the week of November 1, 2008. This is a 7% drop in new claims.  It won’t be straight line down but it is a significant decline from the high of 674,000 new claims last March 28.

In the area of politics this drop in new claims will be a White House argument that their stimulus strategy has worked.   Republicans will contend that the recovery was the result of private enterprise doing its thing.  Regardless of the cause, more of us will be celebrating a Happy Thanksgiving than was anticipated.  The green shoots are a good thing.