Brian's Journal

Countrywide Exec Cashes in on the Way Out

by Brian

Countrywide CEO, Angelo Mozillo, is going to walk away with a severance package of $110 million after the sale of his company to Bank of America for $4 billion. At it’s peak in February 2007, Countrywide had a market value of nearly $26 billion. The company, under his direction, lost almost $2 Billion a month and he gets to walk away with all that money.

We've all heard stories of folks making money even thought they didn't do a good job, but this is unbelievable. If this guy had any scruples he would decline the package based on his "below average" performance. Trouble is, I guess, is that he is probably unemployable at this point.

Good luck to Bank of America CEO Ken Lewis in melding these two diverse cultures together.

Brian's Journal Visits Conservatory

by Brian
On Wednesday of last week, Brian's Journal traveled to Druid Hill Park and visited the Conservatory. If you haven't been there in a while, now is a wonderful time to go. They have their stunning Poinsettia Show on display. The show, and it is a show, runs from now until Jan 8th. The Conservatory is open 10AM - 4PM Tue thru Sun. Closed on Mon. You can call in advance for a guided tour. Come visit one of Baltimore's Loveliest attractions.

You can enjoy this video I took on my visit. Trust me though, the video does not due justice to the beauty and tranquility you will find there. Take a moment from the hectic holiday hub bub and rejuvenate your spirit. You'll be so glad you did. Life is short.

A relaxing tour through the Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory in Baltimore