The $700 billion federal handout, as proposed, reinforces the short-term, borrow-as-you-go mentality that created the current financial mess. Rather than throw a lot of good money after bad, with no certain result other than taxpayers becoming the sad new owners of junk securities that no one else wants, it would be better to invest our money in ways that actually build wealth.

For example, we can create millions of U.S. jobs by aggressively pursuing energy independence and a "green" economy. We can retain hundreds of billions of dollars annually while reducing our military presence in countries of questionable allegiance by ending our dependence on imported oil. Improving transportation infrastructure, from repairing highways and bridges to building effective public transportation, will create hundreds of thousands of jobs and prepare us for the next several decades of growth. Modernizing communications infrastructure will stimulate jobs across sectors and extend opportunities beyond urban areas. Increasing federal grant funding for higher education will prepare our young people to meet the challenges and opportunities of the new global economy.

Presenting a thoughtful investment plan for our country will calm the panic that is now driving of the financial crisis. Congress should commit to completing and adopting such a plan in 2008. Now that is an idea that I can invest in!

BOYD SMITH

Concord