We had the opportunity to attend a unique but not uncommon event this week at The Pierre Hotel in New York. The topic was one of the most important issues presently facing the country, and those who spoke about it are some of the top experts in the field. We’re talking about names that if you follow the news with any regularity, you’ve heard time and again.
But don’t be surprised if you didn’t hear much about what went on that night. It’s a subject rarely played up in the media. So why should this night be any different? It’s a problem Washington doesn’t seem to know how to fix. Politicians, no matter their political persuasion, tend to avoid it at all costs. It’s America’s elephant in the room that few want to face.
But there is a movement out there addressing the problem. The trouble is this is not a subject that immediately grabs our attention. When someone starts talking about it, the reaction of most Americans is to tune out. We’d rather hear the latest on Michael Jackson or Jon and Kate.
So, that’s why I’ve decided not to even mention it by name here. Perhaps a little mystery might be the thing it needs to get everyone to take notice. Hey, it made the balloon boy an overnight sensation!
Intrigued? Then look over the clues below and see if you can figure out...
WHAT AM I?
- I officially became part of the United States in 1791.
- I grow bigger every second of every day.
- Wars tend to make me grow the fastest.
- There are several billboards promoting me in cities around the United States -- the most famous one can be found at One Bryant Park in New York City.
- The last year I showed any signs of a slowdown was 2000.
- I have more than doubled in size since the start of the 21st century.
- I play no political favorites - neither Republicans nor Democrats seem to have a clue what to do with me.
- Over 44% of me is owned by China and Japan.
- A 2008 documentary about me was nominated for a Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury prize.
- My biggest year to date was 2008 where more than $1 trillion was added to my size.
- By 2019, I am expected to be more than 56% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
- I am arguably the biggest threat to the security of the United States around today.
Any ideas? If not, you can find the answer here:
And if you want to learn more, including possible solutions to what’s happening, go to:
Don’t say you weren’t warned!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
