LOOKING FORWARD TO SUMMER
According to the Roman historian Livy, in 211 B.C., the occupants in Rome were expecting a long siege from Hannibal, who had been unstoppable in his invasion of Italy. Hannibal’s invading army was camped outside Rome in a field. Many Romans were panicked, but inside the city walls, a real estate transaction between two Roman citizens took place. In this transaction, the farmland on which Hannibal’s army was camped sold for the same price it would have before Hannibal even entered Italy. This story exemplifies the supreme confidence felt by the Romans and also the way in which normal life continued under threat of invasion. Think about that for minute. Confidence is everything. Americans, like Romans, are
Trout Brook Landscaping is still working every day thanks to being an essential business. Due to our hard work during the recent strong economic times, we have paid ahead on our bills and are on solid financial footing. We are concerned for the businesses that cannot continue during the shutdown, and we will, as always, continue to support local businesses with our purchases. We are looking forward to summer fun and an improvement in the weather. There is an extraordinary story from ancient Rome that I want to share because it is relevant in these times:
staunchly self-confident. It’s a strength. Regardless of your situation, the key now will be to develop and train your confidence and adapt to the new world we live in.
COMMENTARY ON THE ECONOMY
Carolina Sweetshrub ( Calycanthus ) One of my favorite shrubs is the little- known Carolina sweetshrub, also known as Carolina allspice. This plant shows ebullient late spring and summer flowers and exudes bee- attracting, nostalgia-inducing candy scents. The two Calycanthus species, floridus and occidentalis , are both native to America. They are exotic looking shrubs with a fast growth ability and a proud, large, leafy structure. The unusual reddish- brown flowers have a wonderful scent of pineapple or cotton candy, and the peeled bark smells of cinnamon and is used in the perfume industry. This plant is native to the East Coast, and it grows up to 5 feet tall. I recommend this shrub as a conversation piece and stimulating plant you, bees, and hummingbirds can enjoy. PLANT HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH
It’s now the fourth time since 2000 that the stock market is acting more like a highly leveraged casino than an “investment.” Financial assets are falling like rocks, as if they didn’t have major problems to begin with. Follow my lead and invest locally for peace of mind and profit. Going forward from the old economy to the new, localized, pedestrian economy, you can invest in things you can right see in front of you. I think we have stepped back 110 years in time to a hyperlocal society. Support small businesses with your spending, and if you have a skill to offer them, now’s the time to give
your consultation or equity investment. Small and midsize businesses are the engine that will drive this economy through a recession. It’s through free and creative entrepreneurial innovation that new value is created and solutions are tested. Contact us for your spring work! Beyond tree planting and removal, we provide lawn care, spring cleanups, and
garden installation. We provide a professional, finished look every time, and of course, you’ll know us by our bright
fluorescent shirts because safety always comes first. CALL or TEXT (860) 888-8472 to connect with us.
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