Who will act first to fix America?

In 1851, the First American Cup Race was held. "Which craft was first?" asked an observer. The answer was, "America (the yacht)."

"Who is in second place?" was the next question. The answer was, "No one."

Over 170 years later, if asked the same question, America (the country) would not be in first or second place.

The United States was once a nation of dreamers, inventors, and hardworking people. The nation was and is still of opportunity and energy. Europeans at one time came here to see and be amazed at our factories, shops, and creativity. Since then, the tables have turned.

We ship our technology and manufacturing overseas. Go into any store and try to find American-made products. They are few and far between.

Who is to blame? The answer is simply everyone. A circular argument can be made. The manufacturers need money to pay their workers and make a profit. The workers want higher wages in order to pay for their needs. The government wants higher taxes.

Someone must make the first move ... but who will be first?

Robert A. Vlazny

Hoffman Estates