CHASING AFTER BUSINESS ... AT 7TH AND MONTANA

Changes are brewing at 7th and Montana: Chase Bank has finally moved-in to the space formerly occupied by Blockbuster Video. In case the large "Now Open" sign and friendly welcomers weren't enough, Bankers-in-Suits have been chasing after folks trying to drum-up business. I have nothing against Chase, but ever since the economy took a nosedive I've had mixed feelings about the Big Banks in general. It seems to me that banks and mortgage companies played a major role in getting us into this mess, offering high-risk mortgages to folks who bought-in over their heads. When that didn't work out, the banks -- including Chase -- needed 'We the People' to bail them out. They've returned the favor by turning the thumbscrews on us. Now a lot of folks who should be qualified to get a mortgage find themselves left out in the cold. Maybe I'm wrong, but it just feels like most of the Big Banks have betrayed our trust. Until they earn it back, they can Chase after my business all they want ... I'm not biting. Unless, of course, they throw in a free toaster ...